Elevated Ambition with Sarah Lilly

Επεισόδια

• 057: UGC and Content Creation: What Businesses and Creators Need to Know 17.06.2026 19λ

  Content creation has become one of the fastest growing industries online, but there is still plenty of confusion around creator rates, gifted collaborations, UGC content and what businesses should actually expect when hiring a content creator.In this episode of Elevated Ambition, I'm unpacking both sides of content creation and sharing what both creators AND brands need to know to build successful, professional partnerships.Whether you're a content creator looking to charge confidently for your work or a business owner wanting to invest in creator marketing, this episode will help you better understand the industry and avoid some of the most common mistakes.Let's chat....• The difference between UGC creators and content creators• What businesses should consider before hiring a creator• The realities of gifted collaborations versus paid work• Common mistakes creators make when working with brands• How businesses can find creators who genuinely align with their brand• What makes a successful creator-brand partnershipIf you've ever wondered how content creators set their rates, whether gifted collaborations are worth it, or how brands can get better results from creator marketing, this episode is for you.Follow Sarah on Instagram : @itssarahlilly @sarahlillymediaVisit the website : www.sarahlillymedia.com
• 056: Why Everything You've Been Told About Brand Colours Is Wrong 03.06.2026 19λ

  Are you choosing brand colours based on outdated rules, or by what actually feels like YOU?In this episode, we're throwing out the old colour psychology handbook, and ditching the trending colours to find a colour palette that is authentically you. Let's chat...Why traditional colour rules were built for big corporations, not personal brandsHow colour meaning shifts across cultures and contextsA simple method to discover your colours using your wardrobe, home, and saved imagesWhy trending colours are a trap and how to choose a palette that lasts for yearsPractical steps to build and test your brand palette with confidenceWhether you're starting your brand from scratch or thinking about a refresh, this episode will change the way you think about colour, and help you find the palette that's genuinely and distinctly yours.Follow Sarah on Instagram : @sarahlillymedia @itssarahlillyWork with me : www.sarahlillymedia.comLoved this episode? Rate us and be sure to hit follow - it helps us get this episode out to more amazing women like you!
• 055: Mum Guilt & Finding Balance as a Working Mum with Gemma Brown 20.05.2026 48λ

  In this honest and heartfelt episode of Elevated Ambition, we’re talking mum guilt… and how it never really goes away as your children grow.I’m joined by my friend, fellow mum, and businesswoman Gemma Brown for a real conversation about mum guilt, motherhood, social media pressure, and finding balance as a working mum.Mum guilt is something so many women experience, but what’s often not talked about is how it changes as our children grow. As a mum to older children, Gem shares how guilt doesn’t disappear when your kids become more independent… it simply evolves. And as a mum currently navigating life with a baby and a seven-year-old, I share what mum guilt looks like in these early, (and physically demanding) years of motherhood.We also dive into the power of shifting from consumption to creation, why showing vulnerability and resilience is important for our kids to see, and how setting healthy boundaries allows us to show up more intentionally for both our families AND ourselves.If you’ve ever questioned whether you’re doing enough as a mum, this conversation is for you! Find Gemma online here: www.gemmabrown.co.nzConnect with Gemma on Instagram : @itsgemmabrownConnect with Sarah on Instagram : @sarahlillymedia & @itssarahlilly
• 054: Feeling Creatively Stuck? Here’s How to Reignite Your Creative Spark 06.05.2026 18λ

  Feeling creatively stuck after time away from your business or content? Whether you're returning from maternity leave (like me!) or just gotten a little out of your routine, this episode is your reminder that your creativity isn’t gone… and you can bring it back!In this episode of Elevated Ambition, I’m sharing my personal experience of coming back into my business after maternity leave, and having my creativity completely disappear. I'm sharing the simple tips and tricks I used to reignite my creative flow - all without the pressure of perfection.We'll chat....Why creativity feels harder after big life transitions like maternity leave or a change in routineHow to stop forcing creativity and start working with your natural flowSimple ways to shift your environment to spark new ideas and inspirationWhy creative hobbies, that have nothing to do with your business, (aka reading smut) actually matterHow to capture ideas easily using mind dumps and voice notesWhere to actually find inspiration - without copying!The power of imperfect, spontaneous content, and why it often performs betterIf you’ve been feeling the creative block and want to learn how to get creative again, then this chat is for you!Let's connect on Instagram: @sarahlillymedia & @itssarahlillyWork with me: www.sarahlillymedia.com
• 053: How Women Can Build Wealth in Their 30s & 40s (Without Sacrificing Their Lifestyle) - with Maria Temnyuk 15.04.2026 38λ

  If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re actually doing enough to set yourself up for the future … this episode is for you.In this episode of Elevated Ambition, I’m joined by financial planner and founder of Diamond Property and Wealth, Maria Temnyuk, to break down what building long-term wealth really looks like… especially for women in their 30s and 40s who are juggling careers, kids, mortgages, and everything in between!We dive into the reality of where most women are financially right now, what a comfortable retirement actually requires, and how you can start building wealth today without completely sacrificing your lifestyle.Maria shares her journey into finance and how she got out of consumer debt, the mindset shifts that can change everything, and practical, achievable strategies, whether you’re just getting started or ready to take your financial future more seriously.If you want to feel more confident, in control, and clear on your next steps financially… this is a must-listen!Find Maria online here: https://www.diamondpropertyandwealth.co.nz/Follow Maria on Instagram: @diamond.property.and.wealth.nzFollow Sarah on Instagram: @sarahlillymedia
• 052: Stop Overthinking: Here's How to Follow Your Intuition 01.04.2026 26λ

  Do you ever feel like your gut is trying to tell you something… but you ignore it? In this solo episode of Elevated Ambition, we dive into the power of intuition and why learning to trust it can transform your life and business decisions.From distinguishing genuine intuition from fear, to creating space to hear your inner guidance, I share practical tips, personal stories, and exercises to strengthen your intuitive “muscle.” Whether you’re making small daily choices or major business moves, this episode will help you tap into your internal compass and make decisions that truly feel aligned.We'll chat all things intuition includingWhy intuition is an innate skill we all have and how to strengthen itHow to tell the difference between fear, excitement, and true inner guidancePractical ways to create space for your intuition, from walking to meditating to noticing subtle physical cuesHow intuition can guide everything from small daily choices to big business and life decisionsThe importance of self-trust and leaning into discomfort for growthRecognising recurring signs and synchronicities as signals from your inner guidanceDon't forget to hit subscribe to get your fortnightly dose of Elevated Ambition, the podcast for ambitious female business owners who are ready to take their brand to the next level (and have fun while doing so!)Follow Sarah Lilly: @sarahlillymedia @itssarahlillyVisit Sarah Lilly Media: www.sarahlillymedia.com
• 051: The IT FACTOR: How to Stand Out Online in 2026 with Mikayla Jai 18.03.2026 34λ

  In a world where everyone is posting and we are consuming more content than ever, you might be thinking… why do some people stand out while others blend in?In this episode of Elevated Ambition, I’m joined by manifestation guru and content queen, Mikayla Jai, to dive into the power of your “IT FACTOR" - you know, that secret sauce that just makes your content magnetic.If you’ve ever felt like your content is “good” but not quite hitting as it should… then this is the missing piece.We break down how to uncover your it factor, embody your next-level self, and create content that actually connects, converts, and attracts your dream audience in 2026 and beyond.This is your permission slip to stop overthinking, stop copying… and start showing up as you.Connect with Mikayla on InstagramMindset, Magic & Manifestation PodcastConnect with Sarah Lilly on InstagramIf you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow ambitious woman in business - this helps us more than you know to reach more gals in biz!
• 050: The Truth About Niching: Why It Might Be Holding You Back in 2026 04.03.2026 18λ

  We’ve officially hit episode 50 (!!) and this one feels like a full-circle moment, as it's also my first episode back after six months of maternity leave! In this episode of Elevated Ambition, I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at the last six months... navigating life as a mum of two, taking maternity leave from my business, and stepping back into work with a completely new perspective.And yes… we’re also diving into the spicy topic of niching.You’ve probably heard it a hundred times: “You need to niche down to succeed.”But is that actually true in 2026?In this episode, I unpack:The real pros of niching (and when it absolutely makes sense)The hidden downsides no one talks aboutWhy “niche down” has become a bit of a buzzword in the online spaceHow creativity and variety fuel some businesses (including mine)Why finding what works for you matters more than following rigid rulesBecause building a business as a woman, and especially as a mother, isn’t one-dimensional. We’re balancing motherhood, mindset, mental health, lifestyle, social media, and ambition… all at once.And this podcast is here to reflect that.If you’ve been feeling boxed in by the pressure to narrow yourself down, this episode will give you permission to rethink the rules and build a business that actually fits your life.Let me know what you think of this episode in the comments below, and be sure to leave a review. It takes a couple of seconds and helps us to grow!
• 049: The Truth About Social Media Algorithms: Social Media Growth Made Simple 27.11.2025 32λ

  Ever feel like you’re playing a guessing game with the algorithm?In this solo episode of Elevated Ambition, I take the mystery out of social media algorithms and show you how to turn them into a powerful ally for your business.I'll explain how algorithms learn from user behaviour, why engagement is everything, and how you can strategically post, interact, and create to boost your visibility online. From hashtags to Reels, to posting at the right time - these simple shifts can dramatically improve your reach and connection with your audience.Whether you’re feeling stuck, frustrated, or just curious about how the platforms really work, this episode will give you the clarity and practical steps to start working with the algorithm instead of against it.What You’ll Learn:Why the algorithm isn’t your enemy (and how to train it to your advantage).How consistency and engagement fuel your visibility.Practical social media strategies to boost reach with content that resonates.Why showing your face and connecting personally makes such a difference.Simple tweaks that can make the algorithm start working for you.⁠Join the conversation over on Instagram ⁠Don't forget to hit subscribe to get your fortnightly dose of Elevated Ambition, the podcast for ambitious female business owners who are ready to take their brand to the next level (and have fun while doing so!)
• 048: The Brand Artist: Foundations of Magnetic Branding with Emily-Jane Sarroff 13.11.2025 45λ

  This episode is one for the soul-led business owners I’m chatting with the beautiful Emily-Jane Sarroff – a branding strategist, spiritual entrepreneur, and total creative powerhouse. Emily shares her journey from studying architecture to building a thriving six-figure business, and how it all came back to one thing: authenticity.We dive into the power of creating a brand that reflects who you truly are, how self-trust shapes your business journey, and why spirituality is a powerful tool in your branding process. This conversation is a mix of strategy, energy, and creative magic – with so many takeaways for anyone wanting to build a brand that feels deeply aligned.In this episode, we chat about:🌀 What it really means to be authentic🌀 How spirituality can guide your business decisions🌀 Nervous system regulation and how it fuels creativity🌀 Why self-trust is the most important business strategy🌀 The importance of expressing your truth, not following trends🌀 Real talk on burnout, staying inspired, and reconnecting with your missionWhether you're building your brand from the ground up or feeling ready to refresh and realign, this episode will leave you feeling inspired and grounded in your next steps.Connect with Emily-Jane on Instagram: @empowerwithemConnect with Emily-Jane on Linkedin here Connect with Sarah on Instagram: @sarahlillymedia👉 Don't forget to hit follow and rate and review so Elevated Ambition can reach more amazing woman like you!
• 047: Social Proof That Sells: Using Testimonials and Referrals to Grow Your Business 30.10.2025 28λ

  In this episode of Elevated Ambition, I explore one of the most underrated marketing tools for both product and service-based business owners: testimonials, feedback, and referrals.Discover how testimonials act as powerful social proof, building credibility and trust with your dream clients. Learn the difference between feedback and testimonials, why referrals are warm leads that convert faster, and practical strategies for asking your clients for both.I also share mindset shifts to help you see feedback as a growth opportunity, not criticism, and highlight the importance of creating simple systems to collect testimonials consistently.If you’re ready to amplify your online presence and grow your business authentically, this episode will show you how to turn client experiences into your most powerful marketing tool.Connect with Sarah on Instagram: @sarahlillymediaWaitlist to work with Sarah in 2026 here 👉 Don't forget to hit follow and rate and review so Elevated Ambition can reach more amazing woman like you!
• 046: Brows & Business: Building a Beauty Biz with Katrina from Bloom 16.10.2025 32λ

  In this episode of Elevated Ambition, I sit down with Katrina, owner of Bloom Boutique Beauty, to talk about her inspiring journey in the beauty industry.Katrina shares how she first got into the beauty industry and how over 20 years of experience led her to open her own home-based beauty studio in May 2024. She opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the often unseen behind-the-scenes work, and why self-care is so much more than a luxury.We explore the powerful connection between beauty treatments and mental health, why women often feel guilty for prioritising self-care, and how something as simple as a facial or lash treatment can be a reset for both body and mind. Katrina also dives into current beauty trends like brow laminations and lash lifts, the role of social media in shaping beauty standards, and what excites her about the future of her business.If you’ve ever felt guilty about investing in yourself, this episode is a beautiful reminder of why self-care matters.Bloom Boutique Beauty on Instagram: @bloomboutiquebeautyBloom Boutique Beauty on FacebookWebsite: www.bloombeautydunedin.comConnect with Sarah Lilly on Instagram: @sarahlillymedia👉 Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review - this helps to get this podcast out to more amazing women like you!
• 045: Should You Share Your Private Life Online? The Balance Between Privacy & Relatability In Business 02.10.2025 20λ

  If you've ever thought, “Do I have to share my whole life online to be relatable?” ... then this episode is for you.Let’s bust the myth that being authentic = sharing everything online. I’m pulling back the curtain on what I personally share in my business, what I keep private, and how YOU get to create your own rules (that suit YOU!)Inside this episode:How to balance personal posts with business valueWhy oversharing isn’t always more authenticThe kind of behind-the-scenes content that actually builds connectionWhat I don’t post (and why that’s powerful, too)Because being the face of your brand doesn’t mean you need to share your whole life. Your audience doesn’t need your deepest secrets, they need connection and value.Join the conversation over on Instagram Discover how you can work with Sarah Lilly Don't forget to hit subscribe to get your fortnightly dose of Elevated Ambition, the podcast for ambitious female business owners who are ready to take their brand to the next level (and have fun while doing so!)
• 044: Energetics, Māori Healing & the Power of Connection with Merekara Henare 25.09.2025 31λ

  In this episode of Elevated Ambition, I chat with Merekara from Massage Serenity and Healing in Dunedin. Merekara shares her inspiring journey of building a wellness business that blends relaxation massage, therapeutic techniques, and traditional Māori healing practices including mirimiri and honohono.We talk about the challenges of starting a business, the importance of self-care and balance, and how massage can be a powerful tool for maintaining wellbeing. Merekara also explains how she integrates Reiki and traditional Māori energy work into her healing style, creating a holistic experience that supports both body and mind.From navigating burnout to building meaningful community connections, Merekara offers honest insights and practical wisdom for anyone interested in wellness, entrepreneurship, or simply slowing down in our busy world.Connect with Merekara on Instagram: @massage_serenity_healingBook with Merekara hereConnect with Sarah Lilly on Instagram: @sarahlillymedia👉 Don't forget to hit follow and rate and review so Elevated Ambition can reach more amazing woman like you!
• 043: Forget the Followers - This Is What Grows Your Business Online 11.09.2025 18λ

  Social media isn’t what it used to be - and if your likes and follows are down, it might not mean what you think. In this episode of Elevated Ambition, I unpack the real story behind today’s engagement metrics.We explore the shift from vanity metrics like likes and follower counts to deeper, more impactful indicators like reach, click-throughs, and conversions. With video content dominating and attention spans shrinking, it's time to rethink how you define success online.What you’ll learn in this episode:Why social media engagement has changed — and how to adaptWhat metrics actually matter in 2025Why reach and conversions are more powerful than likesHow to shift your strategy to create value-driven contentThe mindset shift every business owner needs when it comes to growth onlineConnect with Sarah on Instagram: @sarahlillymediaSubscribe to the SLM newsletter👉 Don't forget to hit follow and leave us a review - this helps to get this podcast out to more amazing women like you!
• 042: How to Reconnect With Your Body and Thrive with Jessebel Chan 28.08.2025 1ώ 19λ

  Feeling disconnected from your body? Learn how to create safety, vitality, and lasting change.This week, I’m joined by the inspiring Jessebel Chan from Collective Care, a personal trainer and life coach who’s redefining what health and wellness look like for women.Together, we explore how science and spirituality can work hand-in-hand, why small, consistent steps matter more than drastic changes, and how to reconnect with your body when life feels overwhelming. Jessebel also shares her tips for navigating the fitness world with confidence, building a supportive community, and balancing business with personal wellbeing.If you’re ready to feel more empowered in your health, find safety and vitality in your body, and step into a holistic approach to wellness, this episode is for you.Connect with Jess on Instagram : @collectivecare_Collective Care website: www.collectivecare.co.nzFollow Sarah on Instagram : @sarahlillymedia 👉 Don't forget to follow and hit rate and review so that Elevated Ambition can reach more amazing women like you!
• 041: What Makes a Brand Unforgettable? Building a Business That Aligns & Attracts 14.08.2025 22λ

  Branding isn’t just about pretty logos and curated colours—it’s the heart & soul of your business. In this episode, I dive into the true essence of branding (spoiler alert, it's not just your logo and colours!) and why having a solid brand strategy is crucial for lasting success.We cover the five powerful pillars of branding strategy and how each one supports your ability to confidently show up, attract aligned clients, and create meaningful impact.We’re talking:→ Clear, magnetic communication→ Building deep connection→ Consistency across your brand→ Staying aligned with your mission→ Creating a foundation for growthPlus, you’ll walk away with powerful reflection questions to help you reconnect to your brand’s deeper purpose and mission.Book your 1:1 Strategy Call and to get clear on your businesses WHY and let me help you build a solid and actionable brand strategy. Let's connect on Instagram
• 040: Branding with Heart: Ngahuia Crossman on Creative Business, Storytelling & Community 31.07.2025 1ώ 12λ

  In this episode of Elevated Ambition, I sit down with Ngahuia Crossman — founder of branding studio Inspiring Design — to talk all things creativity, business evolution, and building a brand with soul.Ngahuia shares her journey from self-taught designer to the heart-led and values driven entrepreneur she is today. You’ll hear how her business has pivoted with her passions, the importance of storytelling in branding, and why collaboration (not competition!) has been key to her growth. She opens up about building a team, managing creative burnout, and creating a lifestyle business that aligns with your values.You’ll also learn how Ngahuia uses tools like Canva and AI without losing the human touch — and how she's built a community for women in business through Elevate Mind and Business.Whether you're a creative entrepreneur, a brand-builder, or a woman in business looking for real, raw conversation, this episode is for you.Topics we cover:Creative entrepreneurship and DIY branding toolsBranding as culture, not just designFinding your brand’s voice and valuesPivoting your business with your passionsNavigating creative burnout and outsourcingCreating a supportive, aligned teamThe power of community and networkingUsing AI wisely in brandingMultiple income streams and lifestyle business tipsConnect with Ngahuia on Instagram: @inspiringdesign_studio⁠Elevate Mind & Business Community: @elevate_mindandbusiness⁠Inspiring Design Website: Connect with Sarah on Instagram: @sarahlillymedia👉 Don't forget to follow and hit rate and review so that Elevated Ambition can reach more amazing women like you!
• 039: Nailing The Work-Life Balance: How I Structure My Weeks As A Small Business Owner 24.07.2025 13λ

  As a mum and a small business owner, life can be chaotic but after learning how to set boundaries and structure my business I've never felt more calm and with a better work-life balance. In this episode I am sharing how I structure my weeks as a business owner, working 4 days a week, by breaking my week into specific days for different tasks.In this episode we chat about ....The importance of setting boundariesTime management as a working mumCreating a clear scheduleUtilising different days for different focusesUsing tools like Trello to enhance productivityLet's connect on Instagram! Sarah Lilly is a branding coach and social media expert, helping small businesses to create magnetic content easily. Follow for branding tips, social media advice, content creation and the general how-to's of running a small business.
• 038: Start and Grow Your Podcast Like a Pro - Podcasting 101 with Maxene London 10.07.2025 52λ

  In this episode of Elevated Ambition, I'm sitting down with podcast producer and coach Maxene London to talk all things podcasting — from starting out, to scaling, and staying grounded in the journey.Maxene shares her experience navigating entrepreneurship while raising a family, what you need to get started with a podcast, and how perfectionism can stall your success before you even hit “record.” She offers insights into building audience engagement, staying consistent, and making podcasting accessible without burning out.We also chat about her upcoming podcast Wanna Podcast?, a must-listen for aspiring podcasters wanting clear, down-to-earth advice to grow a show they love.We chat....How to balance motherhood and business Why it’s better to start imperfectly than not at allWhat you need to know to start or grow your podcast successfullyTips for audience engagement that actually workWhy consistency > frequency in podcastingTools and mindset shifts that make podcasting easier and more sustainableWhether you're thinking of starting a podcast or looking to grow one, this episode is packed with real talk and practical gems that you can apply right away. Follow Maxene on Instagram: @maxenelondoncreativeWork with Maxene: www.maxenelondoncreative.co.nzFollow Sarah on Instagram: @sarahlillymedia👉 Don't forget to hit follow and rate and review so Elevated Ambition can reach more amazing woman like you!