In this episode, Heather sits down with photographer Michelle, who shares the story of how she transformed a creative idea into a high-impact project that raised over $10,000 for a local dog rescue — while also generating visibility and momentum for her business. Through a breed-specific book project featuring dachshunds, Michelle not only gave her audience a meaningful reason to book sessions, but also built brand awareness, formed strategic partnerships, and expanded into a completely new niche.

3 Key Takeaways:

1. The Book Project Strategy
   A book project gives clients a tangible reason to book — especially in niches like pet photography where there's no built-in milestone. It combines storytelling, imagery, and charity into a powerful offer.

2. Partnerships That Create Leverage
   By collaborating with the Detroit Dachshund Club and a rescue organization, Michelle tapped into a new audience, expanded her reach, and created built-in credibility for her project.

3. Creative Fundraising That Fuels Marketing
   A "cover contest" encouraged participants to raise funds for a chance to be featured on the book's cover — turning the project into a community-driven initiative that sparked donations and increased exposure.

How to Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please like, share, and leave a review.

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Join our next free coaching workshop: www.getcoachedbyheather.com

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Heather Lahtinen: Website, Facebook, Instagram

In this inspiring episode, Heather chats with Susie, a pet photographer and Elevate student, about her recent experience at CatFest, where she faced disappointing results—but didn't let that stop her momentum. Learn how Susie reframed a perceived "failure," found power in persistence, and embraced the long game of business building with resilience and optimism.

Key Takeaways:

• A slow sales day doesn't define your worth or future success.

• Reframing setbacks helps you stay emotionally grounded and focused.

• Building a business is a long game—progress counts, even in small steps.

• Confidence grows when you take action despite rejection.

• Marketing is never "one and done"—keep showing up and experimenting.

How to Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please like, share, and leave a review.

• If you like the content, please share with your friends by posting on social media so that we can reach and impact more people.

Join our next free coaching workshop: www.getcoachedbyheather.com

Connect:

Heather Lahtinen: Website, Facebook, Instagram

In this honest and empowering episode, Heather tackles the all-too-familiar feeling of falling behind while watching other photographers appear to thrive. Learn how to shift out of comparison, manage your mindset, and return to your purpose—with practical tools to help you feel empowered, not defeated.

Key Takeaways:

• Why comparison triggers negative emotions (and how to redirect them)

• The false belief that others' success means your failure

• How to identify and reframe the thoughts that lead to insecurity

• Why competition doesn't actually take clients from you

• A simple mental shift to move from "lack" to "service" energy

How to Support the Podcast:

• Subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or wherever you listen to podcasts. Please like, share, and leave a review.

• If you like the content, please share with your friends by posting on social media so that we can reach and impact more people.

Join our next free coaching workshop: www.getcoachedbyheather.com

Connect:

Heather Lahtinen: Website, Facebook, Instagram