In Episode 84 of the Transparently Jordan Podcast, Jordan sits down with business and marketing coach Ruby Fagen-Schmidt for an honest, no-fluff conversation about entrepreneurship, personal branding, Instagram marketing, and what it really takes to build a sustainable online business.

Ruby shares her journey from early entrepreneurship and fitness coaching to becoming a trusted voice in the business coaching space. Together, they break down how social media has evolved, why building a personal brand still matters, and how business owners can stop chasing viral moments and start focusing on strategies that actually convert into sales.

This episode dives deep into:

• Why most business journeys are non-linear (and why that’s a good thing)

• How to build a personal brand without oversharing or pretending

• Using Instagram as a full business funnel (not just a posting platform)

• The difference between reach, engagement, and metrics that actually matter

• Why going viral doesn’t equal making money

• How to attract, nurture, and convert the right audience

• Organic vs paid growth strategies (including low-cost Meta ads)

• Using AI tools like ChatGPT without losing the human element

• Essential backend tools every online business should have

• Why soft launches beat perfect launches every time

• The mindset shifts needed to show up confidently online

• Building a business around freedom, not burnout

• Why consistency, habits, and saying “yes” open doors

Ruby also shares practical advice for anyone starting a side hustle, transitioning out of a 9–5, or feeling stuck comparing themselves to others online. This episode is packed with actionable insights for creators, coaches, service-based business owners, and anyone wanting to grow an online presence that actually supports their life.

🎧 Listen now if you’re ready to simplify your marketing, build a real connection with your audience, and take messy but meaningful action.

Guest Links:

• Podcast: Marketing and Margaritas

• Instagram: @ruby.consultants

Thank you to this weeks sponsor YouFoodz. These meals have honestly changed my weeks. No matter your goals, fat loss, muscle, performance, or just staying on top of life. YouFoodz has meals that actually taste amazing. Not like those gross frozen meals with fake ingredients… these taste fresh.

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This episode is brought to you by The Kova Haus, the running apparel brand built for runners who care about culture, community, and staying true to the running community. Be sure to Join the Kova Haus for their first community run on January 7th in Adelaide! RSVP https://www.facebook.com/share/1ZZN3KY9mA/

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Follow the show on instagram to stay updated! https://www.instagram.com/transparentlyjordanpod/

This episode was edited and produced by Radiant Voices Media, If you are looking to start or grow your podcast and did not realise the time it requires to podcast be sure to reach out to Radiant Voices Media who wants to make podcasting easier for anyone! Visit Radiantvoicesmedia.com to learn more.