How to Transform Influencer Marketing into a Customer Acquisition Powerhouse with Yuliya Gorenko

Content Creation, Marketing, Podcast

Pinterest pin with text: How to Transform Influencer Marketing into a Customer Acquisition Powerhouse with Yuliya Gorenko on Marketing Strategy Academy Podcast with host Jen Vazquez

In today’s fast-paced digital world, influencer marketing isn’t just a trend—it’s a powerful tool for businesses to connect with their target audience and drive tangible results. But how can businesses, including those with less glamorous products, thrive with influencer marketing?

Let’s dive into the insights shared by Yuliya Gorenko of Mishka Agency Agency on how to craft a successful influencer program that goes beyond awareness and becomes a powerful customer acquisition channel.

The Evolution of Influencer Marketing

Many believe influencer marketing is a modern phenomenon, but the concept has existed for centuries. Influencers have always shaped opinions, from local leaders to global celebrities. With the rise of social media, influencers now have a platform to reach millions worldwide. This shift has made influencer marketing a cornerstone for businesses looking to scale.

Why Businesses Should Leverage Influencer Marketing

At its core, influencer marketing capitalizes on the power of word-of-mouth recommendations. Customers trust people they relate to more than ads. Collaborating with influencers—whether they’re niche micro-influencers or global powerhouses—can give your brand credibility, visibility, and, most importantly, sales.

Key Steps to Build a Winning Influencer Program

  1. Define Your Goals: Start by identifying what you want to achieve—whether it’s awareness, lead generation, or direct sales.
  2. Select the Right Influencers: Partner with influencers whose audience aligns with your target market. Assess metrics like engagement rates, audience demographics, and previous brand collaborations.
  3. Provide Clear Guidelines: Outline the messaging and objectives while giving influencers creative freedom to connect authentically with their followers.
  4. Track Performance: Use custom URLs, coupon codes, or affiliate links to measure the success of your campaigns.

Start Small, Scale Smart: Begin with a few influencers, analyze what works, and gradually expand your program based on data-driven insights.

Overcoming Common Mistakes

  • Ignoring Audience Insights: Ensure influencers’ followers match your target market in terms of location, age, and interests.
  • Lack of Tracking: Always track campaign performance through measurable KPIs.

Overpaying Influencers: Develop a fair compensation structure based on metrics like engagement rates and ROI.

TikTok Influencer Partnerships: Challenges & Opportunities

TikTok offers unique opportunities for brands to reach highly engaged audiences. However, challenges like fluctuating video views and platform-specific algorithms require brands to approach TikTok influencer campaigns strategically. Focus on storytelling, allow creative freedom, and consider performance-based compensation models to maximize ROI.

When to Hire an Agency

If you’re just starting out, you can manage influencer marketing in-house. But if you’re scaling or need expert guidance, an agency like Mishka can streamline processes, manage relationships, and help maximize your ROI.

Free Gift

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Where to Find Yuliya:  

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9 | Filling Your Creative Cup – A Guide for Entrepreneurs

Content Creation, Marketing, Podcast

Pinterest Pin with words: Filling Your Creative Cup – A Guide for Entrepreneurs by Jen Vazquez of Jen Vazquez Media on Marketing Duo Podcast with co host Cinthia Pacheco of Digital Bloom IQ

As entrepreneurs and creatives, we often pour ourselves into our businesses, but how often do we refill our own cups? In this episode of the Marketing Duo Podcast, Jen Vazquez and Cinthia Pacheco discuss the importance of self-care and creating space to spark creativity and prevent burnout. From personal stories to actionable advice, this episode will inspire you to prioritize your well-being while growing your business.

Why Filling Your Creative Cup is Essential

Creativity doesn’t happen on demand. Both science and personal experience show that giving your brain time to rest and recharge leads to better ideas and greater productivity. Jen shares how activities like walking, reading, and even taking baths have helped her overcome creative blocks, while Cinthia highlights how intentional breaks and mindfulness practices keep her motivated.

The Danger of Overworking

The “hustle culture” glorifies overworking, but the long-term costs—burnout, exhaustion, and even health issues—are not worth it. Cinthia recounts a story of a businesswoman who worked through a launch despite being hospitalized, showcasing how unsustainable practices are often normalized. Jen emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, taking weekends off, and integrating downtime into her schedule.

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Tips to Refill Your Creative Cup

1. Incorporate Self-Care Rituals

  • Jen finds joy in getting her eyelashes done, calling it her “lash nap.” It’s a small but meaningful way to feel confident and refreshed.
  • Cinthia prioritizes exercise, attending classes that help her disconnect from stress and recharge her energy.

2. Embrace Mindful Activities

  • Reading fiction allows Jen to step away from work and come back inspired.
  • Cinthia recommends yoga as a way to combine movement with mindfulness.

3. Create Space for Reflection

  • Quiet car rides or walks provide opportunities for ideas to flow.
  • Jen uses silence during her weekly drives to let her thoughts settle and spark new ideas.
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4. Set Boundaries Around Work

  • Define non-negotiable rest days to focus on personal time or hobbies.
  • Recognize that long-term success depends on sustainable work habits.

The Importance of Saying No

Both hosts agree that being selective about commitments is key. By focusing on what truly matters, you can maintain a balanced life while still achieving your goals.

Bottom Line

Refilling your creative cup is not a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether it’s reading, exercising, or simply creating quiet moments, prioritizing yourself is the key to staying inspired and motivated in your business. Share your favorite ways to recharge with us on Instagram at Marketing Duo Podcast—we’d love to hear from you!

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Why You Shouldn’t Just Create Pins Once

Content Creation, Marketing, Pinterest, Pinterest Trends

Pinterest pin with text: Why You Shouldn’t Just Create Pins Once 2025 by Jen Vazquez of Jen azquez Media Pinterest Manager

Think you can post a pin once and forget about it? That mindset could be costing you valuable traffic and leads. While Pinterest is often seen as a “set-it-and-forget-it” platform, the truth is, successful accounts build their reach through consistent and strategic pinning over time. Let’s break down why pinning once isn’t enough and what you can do instead to maximize your Pinterest strategy.

1. The Pinterest Algorithm Loves Fresh Content

Pinterest’s algorithm rewards accounts that consistently upload fresh content. This doesn’t mean you need to create brand-new content daily, but you do need to keep your profile active. Here’s why:

  • Fresh Pins Boost Visibility: When you upload a new pin or a new version of an existing pin, Pinterest prioritizes it in search results and users’ feeds.
  • Consistency Builds Trust: Regularly pinning signals to Pinterest that your account is active, which helps your overall reach.

Tip: Instead of pinning once, create multiple variations of your pin designs. Use different titles, images, or layouts to keep your content fresh and engaging.

2. People Engage Differently Over Time

Audience behavior on Pinterest changes with trends, seasons, and even time of day. If you post a pin once, you’re missing the chance to reach users who might engage with your content later.

  • Seasonal Trends Matter: Content can gain momentum months after it’s posted. For example, a summer photoshoot might take off in June, even if you pinned it in February.
  • Search Behavior Evolves: Users are always searching for new things. Regularly repinning and refreshing your content increases its chances of being discovered.

Example: A pin about “Fall Wedding Trends” might perform better in November when engagement season starts than when it’s originally pinned in May. By repinning, you’re keeping it relevant.

Join the Pinterest Trends Challenge

Ready to take your Pinterest strategy to the next level? The Pinterest Trends Challenge is designed to help you discover and leverage the hottest trends on Pinterest to drive traffic and generate leads. Over the course of this challenge, you’ll learn how to identify seasonal and evergreen trends, create optimized content, and strategically pin to stay ahead of the competition. Whether you’re new to Pinterest or looking to refine your strategy, this challenge will give you the tools and insights you need to turn Pinterest into your lead-generating powerhouse. Don’t miss out—join today and start transforming your Pinterest game!

Sign Up Here

3. Your Audience Needs Repetition

Marketing experts agree—people need to see something multiple times before they take action. This concept, called the Rule of 7, applies to Pinterest too.

  • Multiple Pins Increase Clicks: When you share variations of your pin over time, you’re giving your audience more opportunities to click, save, or engage.
  • Different Designs Speak to Different People: Some users may be drawn to a pin with bold text, while others prefer a minimalist design. By creating a variety of pins, you’re appealing to a broader audience.

Tip: Use scheduling tools like Tailwind to space out your pins so you stay consistent without overwhelming your followers.

4. Build a System for Long-Term Success

To make the most of Pinterest without feeling overwhelmed, create a batching and scheduling workflow. This ensures your content stays active even when you’re busy.

  • Batch Your Pins: Dedicate one day a month to create multiple pin designs for your latest content.
  • Schedule Strategically: Use Pinterest’s native scheduler or third-party tools to spread your pins out over weeks or months.
  • Repurpose Older Content: Don’t let older blog posts collect dust. Refresh their pins and give them new life.

Ready to Create a Winning Pinterest Strategy?

If you’re tired of pinning once and hoping for the best, it’s time to take a more strategic approach. Creating fresh content, repinning strategically, and maintaining consistency are the keys to building a successful Pinterest presence.

Need help? Join my Pinterest Challenge to learn how to create a simple yet powerful Pinterest strategy that drives traffic and generates leads. Let’s turn your Pinterest into a lead-generating machine!

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8 | Taking Time Off as a Solopreneur: Strategies for Balance and Burnout Prevention

Content Creation, Marketing, Pinterest Trends, Podcast

Taking Time Off as a Solopreneur_ Strategies for Balance and Burnout Prevention by Jen Vazquez Media

Taking Time Off as a Solopreneur: Why It’s Essential

In the hustle of running your own business, taking time off can feel impossible—but it’s crucial for long-term success. Burnout is real, and the myth of “work-life balance” often leaves solopreneurs stretched too thin. Instead of aiming for balance, think in terms of guardrails, cycles, and intentional time management.

As shared in a recent Marketing Duo Podcast episode, hosts Jen and Cynthia dive into how solopreneurs can reclaim their time while keeping their business thriving. 

Key Takeaways from the Podcast

1. Reframe Work-Life Balance

  • Instead of seeking perfect equilibrium, think of your life in phases or cycles. During busier times, you may lean into work, but ensure you create space to recharge.

2. Guard Your Calendar

  • Merge personal and professional calendars to avoid overbooking.
  • Block off specific days or weeks for family time, personal development, or rest.
  • Example: Schedule no meetings between December 21 and January 5 to create a buffer during the holidays.

3. Batch Work for Efficiency

  • Consolidate recurring tasks like podcast recordings or client calls into one day.
  • Limit commitments—e.g., no more than three interviews in one day.
  • Use tools like Calendly to streamline scheduling and avoid conflicts.

4. Plan Ahead Strategically

  • Use slower months (like December) to plan the upcoming quarter.
  • Update backend systems and automate tasks to reduce future workload.
  • Create a “dream week” schedule that aligns with your goals and priorities.

5. Embrace the “Fifth Week Miracle”

  • Some months have a fifth week—use this as unscheduled time for catching up, planning, or resting.

Why Time Off Fuels Productivity

Taking intentional breaks isn’t just about rest; it’s about coming back with fresh ideas and renewed energy. Whether it’s a day of reading, a local staycation, or simply unplugging from screens, time off stimulates creativity and mental clarity.

Final Thoughts: Create a Business That Supports Your Life

Your business should enhance your life, not consume it. Experiment with these strategies, adapt them to your needs, and prioritize rest as a non-negotiable. Remember, it’s your company—make it work for you.

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The Ultimate Guide to Solopreneur Time Management by Jen Vazquez Media
Solopreneur Success_ The Key to Taking Time Off by Jen Vazquez Media co-host of Marketing Duo Podcast
How to Take Time Off as a Solopreneur Without Losing Momentum by Jen Vazquez Media co-host of Marketing Duo Podcast
Effective Time Management for Solopreneurs by Jen Vazquez co-host of Marketing Duo Podcast with Cinthia Pacheco of Digital Bloom IQ
Avoid Burnout_ Solopreneur Tips for Sustainable Success by Jen Vazquez co-host of Marketing Duo Podcast with Cinthia Pacheco of Digital Bloom IQ

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251 | Discovering Your True Potential: How Human Design & Gene Keys Can Transform Your Life with Diamond Drip

Content Creation, Marketing, Pinterest

graphic with words: Discovering Your True Potential How Human Design & Gene Keys Can Transform Your Life with Diamond Drip on Marketing Strategy Academy Podcast with Jen Vazquez

Have you ever felt like you were living a life that wasn’t truly yours? Weighted down by expectations, fears, and societal norms? Imagine if you could uncover your unique energetic blueprint and break free from those limitations to live a life of abundance and authenticity. Today, on the Marketing Strategy Academy podcast, we dive deep into this transformative journey with the award-winning speaker and intuitive coach, Diamond Drip. Together, we explore how Human Design and Gene Keys can guide you to embrace your true self and step into your full potential.

From Burnout to Awakening: Diamond’s Journey

Diamond’s story is a testament to resilience and rediscovery. At a crossroads in her life, juggling multiple businesses, a degree program, and motherhood, she found herself on the verge of burnout. A clinical trial involving psilocybin opened her eyes to the necessity of change. This experience catalyzed her journey into Human Design and Gene Keys, tools that allowed her to reclaim joy, flow, and authenticity in her life.

Through introspection, Diamond realized that her true passion lay in helping others find clarity and heal. She pivoted her focus from business coaching to guiding individuals to understand their energetic blueprints, emphasizing that true transformation starts from within.

Understanding Human Design

Human Design is a synthesis of ancient and modern sciences, combining elements like astrology, the Chinese I Ching, the Kabbalah Tree of Life, and quantum physics. It provides a practical “owner’s manual” for understanding how your energy works and how to align it with your life and work.

For example, Diamond discovered she was a Generator, a type characterized by contagious energy and a natural ability to inspire others when aligned with work they love. This understanding validated her unique gifts and gave her the confidence to embrace her true path.

Exploring Gene Keys

Gene Keys takes a contemplative approach, diving deeper into themes like shadow work and vibrational frequencies. Each of us possesses a unique energetic makeup, with shadows (low frequencies) and gifts (higher frequencies). By addressing and transforming these shadows, we can unlock our highest potential.

Diamond explained how understanding her Gene Keys helped her move from a state of external validation to internal groundedness, allowing her to embrace expansion and superabundance.

Practical Applications: Aligning with Your Design

To begin your journey, Diamond recommends:

  1. Pulling Your Human Design Chart: Visit her website, DiamondDripConsulting.com, to access a free chart. This is the first step in understanding your energy type and design.
  2. Awareness and Reflection: Start listening to your inner critic and challenge beliefs rooted in fear or scarcity by asking, “How is this helpful?”
  3. Scheduling with Intention: Align your work and personal life with the phases of your menstrual cycle or emotional waves, leveraging periods of high energy for launches and networking.

Common Limiting Beliefs and Breaking Free

Diamond highlighted common struggles women face, like apologizing for taking up space or feeling trapped by societal expectations. Human Design helps break these barriers by promoting self-awareness and teaching us to honor our natural cycles and tendencies.

Key Takeaways for Growth

Diamond shared three transformative lessons:

  1. Human Design Validates Your Gifts: This tool provides clarity and confidence to embrace your unique strengths.
  2. Just Because You Can Doesn’t Mean You Should: Avoid spreading yourself too thin and focus on what truly matters.
  3. Comfort and Growth Can’t Coexist: Growth often requires stepping outside your comfort zone.

How to Work with Diamond

Diamond offers 90-minute personalized readings to help you understand and master your energy. During these sessions, she explores your energetic blueprint, purpose, and path to fulfillment. From there, you can decide to dive deeper into business coaching, spiritual development, or other avenues.

Bottom Line

Living authentically requires us to challenge long-held beliefs and align with our true selves. Tools like Human Design and Gene Keys provide a roadmap to navigate this journey, offering clarity, empowerment, and the freedom to step into your full potential. Whether you’re just starting or seeking deeper alignment, Diamond’s insights are a beacon for transformation.

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