Course Lab: Lessons from Successful Online Course Creators

Teaching Accent Confidence: Creating an Impactful Course (Donna Durbin)

Special "business revenue leak checklist" offer, free at http://www.mrse.co/leak.Hear the intriguing journey of Donna Durbin, a pronunciation expert who transitioned from art to online teaching. Discover how she combines innovation and connection, offering tailored courses and global corporate support. She also emphasizes the importance of visibility and being bold in marketing.Donna Durbin is an artist and a Clear English Pronunciation Coach.In this episode, Ari, Abe, and Donna discuss:Donna’s journey from being an artist to developing online coursesThe importance of entrepreneurship and self-promotion in establishing a successful businessThe challenges and strategies in transitioning from in-person to online teachingHer focus on pronunciation and accent reduction for non-native English speakersThe evolution of her teaching method to include a combination of videos, online lessons, and live coachingThe role of digital tools and platforms like Zoom and YouTube in expanding her reachInsights into marketing strategies for growing an online course businessThe significance of embracing new technology and continuous learningHer target audience which consists of professionals seeking to advance their communication skillsThe importance of being visible and proactive in promoting her services“It’s not selling, it’s celebrating. You’ve got to celebrate what you do and share it with people or they don’t know.”  — Donna DurbinGuest Bio:Donna Durbin started her entrepreneurial lifestyle at age 25 when she bought her first house in Houston, Texas. This turned into a nine-year creative project of hands-on design, construction, and remodeling. With a “can-do” spirit, Donna learned to refinish floors, lay tile, construct lattice fencing, install A/C ductwork, install a roof, plus float and tape sheetrock. Through that, she built the home of her dreams, complete with a second-story art studio space, swimming pool, and deck — while being married and raising two sons.She launched her first hybrid online course, “The ABCs of an American Accent,” on Ruzuku in 2019. It combines self-study video lessons, feedback, and live coaching in a highly personalized program to transform voices and transform lives. Donna continues to create online pronunciation courses and facilitate live coaching groups and private coaching on Ruzuku.Resources or websites mentioned in this episode:MiraseeRuzukuDonna’s website: ClearEnglishCoach.comSpecial offer for podcast listeners:  Free 1st Monday Accent Reduction CoachingDonna’s YouTube channel: @ClearEnglishCoachCredits:Hosts: Ari Iny and Abe CrystalProducer: Michi LantzAssembled by: Fatima FojasExecutive Producer: Danny InyAudio Editor: Marvin del RosarioMusic Soundscape: Chad Michael SnavelyMaking our hosts sound great: Home Brew AudioTo catch the great episodes that are coming up on Course Lab, please follow us on Mirasee FM's YouTube channel or your favorite podcast player. And if you enjoyed the show, please leave us a comment or a starred review. It's the best way to help us get these ideas to more people.Music credits:Track Title: Bossa BBArtist Name: MarieWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: Coo CoosArtist Name: Dresden, The FlamingoWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: GraceArtist Name: ShimmerWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSTrack Title: Carousel LightsArtist Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSSpecial effects credits:24990513_birds-chirping_by_promission used with permission of the author and under license by AudioJungle/Envato Market.Episode transcript: Empowering Voices Globally with an Online Pronunciation Course (Donna Durbin).

Sacred Strategy: Even Intuition Needs a Spreadsheet (Patricia Peters)

Special "business revenue leak checklist" offer, free at http://www.mrse.co/leak.From athlete to empowering modern shaman, Patricia Peters unveils her strategies for creators to foster online course success. She emphasizes a blend of spirituality and neuroscience, the impact of genuine client connections, and the importance of clear vision and self-honesty in entrepreneurship.Patricia Peters is a Leadership Alchemist for visionary women, former world-class athlete, and founder of Women Unlimited International.In this episode, Ari, Abe, and Patricia discuss:The importance of having a long-term vision for course creatorsPatricia’s transition from running a high-end gym to guiding women entrepreneurs in personal development and spiritualityHow her programs blend ancient wisdom and neuroscience for women's empowermentChallenges in reaching high-achieving women and marketing strategies like networking, JVs, and referrals are coveredPatricia emphasizes honesty and intuition in determining if a client is a good fitThe significance of understanding numbers and profitability is discussedCo-creating courses with clients through pop-up workshopsPatricia shares her approach to creating a safe space for clients to open up“You need to be crystal clear on what you provide, on your core values, on your red flags.” — Patricia PetersGuest Bio:Patricia Peters is a Leadership Alchemist for visionary women, former world-class athlete, and founder of Women Unlimited International. She is also a board-certified holistic psychotherapy practitioner in her home country and a Modern Shaman.Her ancestors are Huguenots, Scandinavians, and even some Vikings in her maternal lineage. Hence her passion for women's inner liberation, empowerment, and self-actualization.Since 1989, Patricia has guided more than 2,000 high-achieving visionary women to freedom and fulfillment beyond the material without sacrificing their success. Her method is rooted in ancient wisdom, is science backed, and helps women to rise above limitations and conditionings that reside in the individual and collective non-consciousness, having been imposed on women over millennia. She empowers women to follow their higher calling while enjoying meaningful abundance on all levels of being. When she’s not working you can most likely find her in the gym, in nature, studying, or enjoying life with loved ones.Resources or websites mentioned in this episode:MiraseeRuzukuPatricia’s website: WomenUnlimited.inCredits:Hosts: Ari Iny and Abe CrystalProducer: Michi LantzEditor: Michi LantzExecutive Producer: Danny InyAudio Editor: Marvin del RosarioMusic Soundscape: Chad Michael SnavelyMaking our hosts sound great: Home Brew AudioTo catch the great episodes that are coming up on Course Lab, please follow us on Mirasee FM's YouTube channel or your favorite podcast player. And if you enjoyed the show, please leave us a comment or a starred review. It's the best way to help us get these ideas to more people.Music credits:Track Title: Bossa BBArtist Name: MarieWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: Coo CoosArtist Name: Dresden, The FlamingoWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: GraceArtist Name: ShimmerWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSTrack Title: Carousel LightsArtist Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSSpecial effects credits:24990513_birds-chirping_by_promission used with permission of the author and under license by AudioJungle/Envato Market.Episode transcript: Sacred Strategy: Even Intuition Needs a Spreadsheet (Patricia Peters).

Speaking Up: Confidence and Communication for Course Creators (Penny van den Berg)

Special "business revenue leak checklist" offer, free at http://www.mrse.co/leak.A military veteran with 25 years of service, Penny van den Berg shares her journey to founding her courses and coaching business called Gottaminute, which focuses on empowering introverts. Key themes discussed include overcoming self-doubt, course iteration, and the importance of reflection.Penny van den Berg is a military veteran, experienced trainer, coach, and founder of Gottaminute.In this episode, Ari, Abe, and Penny discuss:The value of integrating a coaching perspective into course designPenny’s background and journey into course creationThe structure and focus of Penny’s course for introvertsHow Penny incorporates her coaching mindset into her coursesThe importance of practicing communication skills in safe environmentsPenny’s experience and approach to teaching assertive communicationThe concept of soft skills and their continuous practiceMethods for ensuring that course participants achieve behavior changeThe iterative process of course development based on feedback and new findingsChallenges related to teaching and applying soft skills“If we’re basing our behaviors on acquired values more than our core values, there’s going to be a misalignment.” — Penny van den BergGuest Bio:Penny van den Berg is a military veteran having served in various roles over her 25 years in uniform. Her final ten years of service left an indelible mark and were the impetus to continue her educational pursuit in coaching. She had the opportunity and privilege to be a Conflict Management Coach for both military members and Department of National Defence employees, and it was this experience that solidified her focus on coaching after military retirement. She experienced the profound positive impact coaching provided with feedback such as "transformative" and "the skills I’ve learned have even helped my marriage".Penny is an experienced trainer and coach with a Bachelor's degree in psychology and has specialized training in mediation, conflict management, conflict dynamic, and life coaching. She founded Gottaminute in 2023 and provides coaching and education services. Penny has worked separately with individuals in Europe and North America providing coaching services and product development.Her vision is for introverts to have a deeper connection with themselves and others through conversation. And with this deeper self-connection, they can experience an increase in confidence to make their presence, voice, and ideas heard and understood.Resources or websites mentioned in this episode:MiraseeRuzukuPenny’s website: GottaMinute.caFree downloadable resource for podcast listeners: Confident Conversations Success PathCredits:Hosts: Ari Iny and Abe CrystalProducer: Michi LantzEditor: Michi LantzExecutive Producer: Danny InyAudio Editor: Marvin del RosarioMusic Soundscape: Chad Michael SnavelyMaking our hosts sound great: Home Brew AudioTo catch the great episodes that are coming up on Course Lab, please follow us on Mirasee FM's YouTube channel or your favorite podcast player. And if you enjoyed the show, please leave us a comment or a starred review. It's the best way to help us get these ideas to more people.Music credits:Track Title: Bossa BBArtist Name: MarieWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: Coo CoosArtist Name: Dresden, The FlamingoWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: GraceArtist Name: ShimmerWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSTrack Title: Carousel LightsArtist Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSSpecial effects credits:24990513_birds-chirping_by_promission used with permission of the author and under license by AudioJungle/Envato Market.Episode transcript: Speaking Up: Confidence and Communication for Course Creators (Penny van den Berg) coming soon.

Star Power: Building Confidence On and Off Camera (Bethany Yamawaki)

Special "business revenue leak checklist" offer, free at http://www.mrse.co/leak.From reality TV casting to coaching in her program, “Star of your Own Story,” Bethany Yamawaki shares her career journey. She discusses her star framework, blending self-discovery with confidence-building tools, and her pivot to group coaching — all while offering key insights for course creators.Bethany Yamawaki is a Certified Relationship Coach and a Senior Casting Producer.In this episode, Ari, Abe, and Bethany discuss:Bethany’s background and career journey transitioning from casting producer to relationship coach and creating online coursesOverview of her program, “Star of Your Own Story,” focused on self-discovery tools, techniques, confidence-building, and action steps mixed with resonanceUnderstanding the challenges people face when enrolling and completing transformational programsCombining her work in casting with coaching techniques to help clients shine and connectWorking with different groups like coaches, creatives, and reality show aspirantsImportance of practicing on-camera confidence through daily recordings and affirmationsConsiderations for marketing a program with less concrete outcomesNeed for a hybrid online and community-based approach for effective support and feedbackBlending Bethany's reality TV experience with broader life and business coaching lessons“I think a lot of people want to do this, but they don’t know how. So I don’t just say, ‘Fix your mindset.’ You need to break that down for people and give them specific tools, specific techniques.” — Bethany YamawakiGuest Bio:Bethany Yamawaki combines TV casting with relationship coaching, and brings more than two decades of experience and insight into transforming lives with confidence and clarity. With a Bachelor's degree in Drama and Theatre Arts from Northwestern University, as well as certifications from the Life Coach Institute of Orange County and the prestigious Relationship Coaching Institute, Bethany has successfully merged her passion for unscripted casting with a profound commitment to helping others.As a seasoned Casting Producer, Bethany has been integral to the success of major reality shows, including The Bachelor, Big Brother Canada, The Amazing Race, and Love Island. Her ability to identify and nurture talent has seen her interview more than 10,000 individuals, providing a unique lens on human relationships and the patterns that shape them.In her "Star of Your Own Story" program, Bethany casts women into roles featuring on & off camera confidence and empowerment, guiding them to reclaim their narratives and magnetize opportunities. Her mission extends beyond confidence coaching; she facilitates life-altering transformations for those navigating transitions, from breakup recovery to rebuilding relationships with self and others.Through one-on-one coaching and specialized group programs, Bethany offers a supportive space for individuals to use their authentic voice, find their power, and achieve life and business goals. Her teachings blend action with strategy, empowering clients to move forward creatively and courageously.Bethany's personal journey — rooted in a biracial upbringing and enriched by a multicultural family life — fuels her advocacy for diversity and inclusion. Her coaching focuses on empowering underrepresented groups and those in interracial/intercultural relationships, drawing from her extensive experience in both personal and professional realms. She enjoys family life with her husband of 20+ years and their teenage daughter, a sophomore at USC. In her free time, she indulges in continued learning, live music & theatre, travel, and pilates, which all contribute to her grounded approach to life and coaching.Resources or websites mentioned in this episode:MiraseeRuzukuBethany’s Website: StarofYourOwnStory.comBethany’s Instagram page: @starofyourownstoryCredits:Hosts: Ari Iny and Abe CrystalProducer and Editor: Michi LantzEditor: Michi LantzExecutive Producer: Danny InyAudio Editor: Marvin del RosarioMusic Soundscape: Chad Michael SnavelyMaking our hosts sound great: Home Brew AudioTo catch the great episodes that are coming up on Course Lab, please follow us on Mirasee FM's YouTube channel or your favorite podcast player. And if you enjoyed the show, please leave us a comment or a starred review. It's the best way to help us get these ideas to more people.Music credits:Track Title: Bossa BBArtist Name: MarieWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: Coo CoosArtist Name: Dresden, The FlamingoWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: GraceArtist Name: ShimmerWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSTrack Title: Carousel LightsArtist Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSSpecial effects credits:24990513_birds-chirping_by_promission used with permission of the author and under license by AudioJungle/Envato Market.Episode transcript: Star Power: Building Confidence On and Off Camera (Bethany Yamawaki) coming soon.

The Collaborative Sale: Building Trust (Carole Mahoney)

Special "business revenue leak checklist" offer, free at http://www.mrse.co/leak.Carole Mahoney redefines sales as a collaborative process rooted in mutual trust. She reveals how aligning personal goals drives behavior change in courses and shares actionable insights on blending marketing with sales. Discover innovative strategies to forge genuine, lasting buyer relationships.Carole Mahoney is a coach, sales influencer, and the founder of Unbound Growth.In this episode, Ari, Abe, and Carole discuss:Rethinking sales as a collaborative process built on trustShifting mindsets to align sales conversations with buyer needsUsing cognitive-behavioral techniques to overcome sales fear and resistanceAligning marketing and sales messaging for buyer-focused communicationCreating courses that prioritize the learner’s goals and behavior changeLeveraging referrals and personal networks to build trust and grow sales“Selling is [...] a collaboration. If you look at the definition of sales, it’s the exchange of value, meaning it’s not just a one-way street.” — Carole MahoneyGuest Bio:Carole Mahoney has been called the “Sales Therapist” by a Harvard Business School professor where she coaches for the Entrepreneurial MBA program. The president of the AA-ISP Boston Chapter, Mahoney has been named a top sales influencer by LinkedIn. As the founder of Unbound Growth, Mahoney collects data from 2.2 million sales professionals to coach others on what makes a great seller. Mahoney holds a BA in Marketing and Business Management from Franklin Pierce University and lives in Maine.Resources or websites mentioned in this episode:MiraseeRuzukuCarole’s website: CaroleMahoney.comCarole’s courses website: Unbound GrowthCredits:Hosts: Ari Iny and Abe CrystalProducer: Michi LantzEditor: Michi LantzExecutive Producer: Danny InyAudio Editor: Marvin del RosarioMusic Soundscape: Chad Michael SnavelyMaking our hosts sound great: Home Brew AudioTo catch the great episodes that are coming up on Course Lab, please follow us on Mirasee FM's YouTube channel or your favorite podcast player. And if you enjoyed the show, please leave us a comment or a starred review. It's the best way to help us get these ideas to more people.Music credits:Track Title: Bossa BBArtist Name: MarieWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: Coo CoosArtist Name: Dresden, The FlamingoWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONTrack Title: GraceArtist Name: ShimmerWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSTrack Title: Carousel LightsArtist Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Chelsea McGoughWriter Name: Matthew WigtonPublisher Name: A SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONPublisher Name: BOSS SOUNDSTRIPE PRODUCTIONSSpecial effects credits:24990513_birds-chirping_by_promission used with permission of the author and under license by AudioJungle/Envato Market.Episode transcript: The Collaborative Sale: Building Trust (Carole Mahoney) coming soon.