tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-106908292011-04-21T19:12:47.349-07:00Back in 1998, MaaMaw started an unassuming little message board at FriendsInBusiness.com. She babied it along, passing out brownies and ruling with an iron skillet -- until her little board earned its BIG reputation as one of the most popular business, marketing, anti-scam forums on the net. It's widely known that MaaMaw only serves up the best. Here you’ll find LATE-BREAKING NEWS and all the BEST posts from the BEST FORUMS & BLOGS... all the little GEMS you simply can’t afford to miss.Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comBlogger1611100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1113438327109342612005-04-13T17:25:00.000-07:002005-04-13T17:27:49.296-07:00

I confess... I don't get it.A pioneer in this "dynamic new... industry" says, "instead of selling just one pizza for one price, we're able to sell eight slices for ninety-nine cents a piece. That means more profit for us..."What planet is he living on?  On my planet, large pizzas under $8.00 don't exist (and I assume it's a large pizza they're cutting into eight slices).  So where's the extra

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1113437699860559912005-04-13T17:13:00.000-07:002005-04-13T17:15:16.786-07:00

This just in:"Google appears to be actively cleaning its listings by targeting sites using suspicious link-building techniques.  A couple of well-known search engine marketing sites have vanished..."Read the article here.Luv,MaaMawTechnorati Tags: google, seo

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1113366585110681492005-04-12T21:29:00.000-07:002005-04-12T21:36:44.753-07:00

At least one foreign company is contacting people who have posted their resumes online.  Apparently they offer a job collecting money for notebook computers.  The numbers make no sense, so hopefully most people will be turned off from the git-go.Here's the poop.Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1113365743032759722005-04-12T21:15:00.000-07:002005-04-12T21:15:43.033-07:00

MarketingExperiments.com is an "online laboratory with a simple (but not easy) five-word mission statement:  To discover what really works." They actually "test every conceivable marketing method on the internet," and you can subscribe to their Marketing Experiments Journal free. Whoa doggy! Luv, MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1113318788934279622005-04-12T08:13:00.000-07:002005-04-12T08:14:55.413-07:00

I tripped over this old thread at SowPub with a truckload of great fundraising ideas.Luv,MaaMawVisit the FIB Message BoardTechnorati Tags:  fundraising

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1113076724148831302005-04-09T12:58:00.000-07:002005-04-09T13:04:28.990-07:00

Gotta love this article.Nothing makes me grind my teeth (sorry, my dentition) louder than a written piece (any written piece) that's "pretentious" and "laden with jargon... a case of trying to impress, rather than express."Build a sales pitch around such silliness and it's no longer merely obnoxious -- it's downright disastrous (and annoying as hell).Luv,MaaMawVisit the FIB Message

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1113053715086632302005-04-09T06:35:00.000-07:002005-04-09T06:36:12.046-07:00

For anyone who uses AOL and reports spam, this is a MUST READ.Luv,MaaMawVisit the FIB Message Board

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1113024920449974822005-04-08T22:35:00.000-07:002005-04-08T22:36:05.596-07:00

Here's a really good article about getting off your hiney and hunting down the perfect opportunity because it ain't gonna come huntin' for you.Luv,MaaMawMaaMaw's Favorite Last-Chance Scam-Proof Business Opportunities

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1113011229993756702005-04-08T18:47:00.000-07:002005-04-08T18:49:02.726-07:00

Here's an article from the Washington Post that brought up a twist I haven't seen before (maybe because the scumbeezles hadn't thought of it back when I jumped in head first, or maybe because I was lucky)...A man signed up for an envelope-stuffing program, thinking it would be a good way for his 18-year-old daughter to make some extra money.  It seems "the instructions for the project stated he

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1113010773941186292005-04-08T18:39:00.000-07:002005-04-08T18:40:13.626-07:00

Wheeeee!!&nbsp I love it!Clicky-doodle.Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1113008810078062612005-04-08T18:06:00.000-07:002005-04-08T18:06:50.076-07:00

Ick.  That's all... just ick.  Oh, and I'm glad I'm not one anymore. Click here to read the article. Luv, MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1113008170809122262005-04-08T17:56:00.000-07:002005-04-08T17:59:27.660-07:00

I just saw this article about a lady in San Francisco who is building a nationwide network of "eBay Trading Specialists."  She claims they can make between $200 and $1,000 a week, and everyone coming into the company is mentored.  NOW HEAR THIS!  I am NOT endorsing this opportunity.  I'm telling you about it so you can do your own research if you're interested.  You DO have to pay for the

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112996570270244142005-04-08T14:42:00.000-07:002005-04-08T14:42:50.270-07:00

I always knew there was a chance that evil hackers could steal my Social Security number but it seems it's even easier than anybody thought. What's the solution? Just say no:  "Sometimes, it takes a lot of nerve to say no to a creditor asking for that information.... You've got to be pushy and refuse.... The mobile-phone company does not need your Social Security number." Luv, MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112995893258013172005-04-08T14:31:00.000-07:002005-04-08T14:31:33.256-07:00

Wow. Nine years. That's more than some people get for shaking a baby to death. Luv, MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112995681582361502005-04-08T14:28:00.000-07:002005-04-08T14:28:01.583-07:00

Tips on how to blog safely. It pretty well boils down to common sense, like everything else on the net.  I have a friend who posts countless pictures of her kids (as do bzillions of other people), and I confess, it scares me to think who might be watching. Luv, MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112988660355090482005-04-08T12:31:00.000-07:002005-04-08T12:31:00.356-07:00

Hey, Retailers... time to get your hineys in motion to be ready for the anticipated influx of female buyers:  here's the article. Luv, MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112988321325371942005-04-08T12:25:00.000-07:002005-04-08T12:26:19.070-07:00

According to this article, "Word of mouth is becoming a profession instead of a thing."I find it hard to believe, but they claim "...27 percent of all conversations include a word-of-mouth recommendation, whether it's the 411 on a twisted graphic novel, hip restaurant, or hot baby stroller."Hmmmm... maybe I can create a buzz about my petrified brownies.Luv,MaaMawVisit the FIB Message Board

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112807130480633502005-04-06T10:03:00.000-07:002005-04-06T10:11:44.746-07:00

What a positively great(!) article about building traffic to your blog.  Neat, organized, and complete.'Nuff said.Luv,MaaMawVisit the FIB Message BoardTechnorati Tags: blogging, promotion, traffic

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112714146926226662005-04-05T08:15:00.000-07:002005-04-05T08:15:46.926-07:00

Ooops... I just found this.In my last post I told you about a little bookmarklet doohinky that easily creates your Technorati tags.It turns out you can style them so they look different than your other links.  Here's the poop.Spiffy!Luv,MaaMawVisit the FIB Message Board

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112712261574045372005-04-05T07:36:00.000-07:002005-04-05T07:56:44.186-07:00

Forgive me if this is old news, but I figure there has to be another blogger somewhere who didn't know (hello? anybody?).On my other blog, Google is having a devil of a time serving up appropriate ads.  I know, I know -- it's my fault because I don't include enough keywords in my bloggies, but if I write for keywords I end up not saying what I mean, and I won't sacrifice what I wanted to say for

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112675018218537362005-04-04T21:23:00.000-07:002005-04-04T21:23:38.216-07:00

I'm struggling to prioritize and take one step at a time so I don't get bogged down and end up doing nothing (again).  That's why this article by Willie Crawford jumped out at me. Lots of good ideas about prioritizing, overcoming procrastination, and avoiding time-wasters (my personal bugaboo).  Nothing earth-shattering, but plenty of things I need to be reminded about often. Luv, MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112673230126532912005-04-04T20:53:00.000-07:002005-04-04T20:56:05.196-07:00

Here's an article about a nifty service called LinkedIn.  From what I can tell, it's a system that allows you to connect with professionals in any field through someone you know and trust, who knows and trusts someone else, who knows and trusts someone else else else...It's free, so no harm in checking it out.Luv,MaaMawVisit the FIB Message Board

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112670806775150112005-04-04T20:13:00.000-07:002005-04-04T20:14:27.940-07:00

Just a reminder that Mike Long is continuing his step-by-step instructions on building profitable niche sites.Have you been keeping up?  I got way behind, but let me tell you, it's well worth taking time to catch up.Luv,MaaMawWant To Make Money On the Net But You Don't Know Diddly?

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112670406878409262005-04-04T20:06:00.000-07:002005-04-04T20:07:46.936-07:00

This is an absolutely GREAT article about where on the page you should be placing your ads.Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112658439690589482005-04-04T16:47:00.000-07:002005-04-04T16:49:21.623-07:00

Of course... it had to happen.I finally work up the nerve to at least think about starting a niche site or six and up comes this story about the Google Sandbox.It's a "probation" of sorts -- but the good news is, there are apparently ways of avoiding it altogether if you time things just right.Woe is me.  I no sooner get my brain wrapped halfway around a concept than some smart alec makes it more

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112456338987272092005-04-02T07:36:00.000-08:002005-04-02T07:38:58.986-08:00

Some admit to being MLM, and some swear they aren't -- but it doesn't matter, because they're all designed to bleed you dry.Here's a rough translation of their promises.While we're on the subject, not all MLMs are evil.  Some are product-driven (as in, you make your money by selling products, and if you never recruit anybody, oh well).  Watkins and Mary Kay come to mind.  There are others.Luv,

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112367283821307192005-04-01T06:54:00.000-08:002005-04-01T10:05:05.160-08:00

Quite frankly, Ebay gives me hives.  I've had some bad experiences as a buyer and even worse experiences as a seller.  I can't stand taking pictures, writing listings, answering endless questions, waiting for payment, packing stuff, and going to the P.O. to make five bucks (and that's only on those exceedingly rare occasions when something actually sells).But that's just me.Jim agrees that with

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112279217946909162005-03-31T06:26:00.000-08:002005-03-31T06:28:43.143-08:00

Here's a good article with a good idea and also a pep talk on why you should "learn how to sell."Many moons ago, I decided the torture just wasn't worth it for me -- but I have no doubt the dreaded "face-to-face selling" is the way to go.Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112278273023407442005-03-31T06:11:00.000-08:002005-03-31T06:17:50.476-08:00

Whoa!  Here's another great idea.Be sure to read the follow-up messages!Luv,MaaMawMaaMaw's Favorite Last-Chance Scam-Proof Business Opportunities

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112278080290545112005-03-31T06:08:00.000-08:002005-03-31T06:08:00.290-08:00

The Great Don Alm offers this advice as an alternative to someone who asked about starting a catering truck. Luv, MaaMaw Visit the FIB Message Board

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112277126177146492005-03-31T05:52:00.000-08:002005-03-31T05:53:12.793-08:00

Pete has been doing well with SMC for several years, and he's offering you a chance to give it a whirl for 25 bucks.  Click here to read his offer and also some great do's and don'ts if you're already in.Luv,MaaMawScams 101... How To Smell a Rat Before It Bites You In the Hiney

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112213353830687432005-03-30T12:09:00.000-08:002005-03-30T12:11:14.086-08:00

Technical stuff here... Are cookies costing you cash?  This thread will point you to an article that explains the whole thing, plus discussion about a possible alternatives (ever heard of "stealth" cookies"?).Luv,MaaMawP.S.  Several messages from Tony Blake's board today.  If you get "No Message," it's probably in the archives.  The "Success Forum Archive Menu" is linked in itty-bitty letters

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112213061579169222005-03-30T12:04:00.000-08:002005-03-30T12:04:21.580-08:00

Which words send your visitors scrambling for the nearest exit?  Check out this thread and this one. Luv, MaaMaw Want To Make Money On the Net But You Don't Know Diddly?

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1112212125209454572005-03-30T11:48:00.000-08:002005-03-30T11:48:45.210-08:00

This guy had a product he needed to move out fast, so he came up with this brilliant idea. I'm so impressed! Luv, MaaMaw The Most Comprehensive Internet Marketing Course On the Planet

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1111596835409654842005-03-23T08:52:00.000-08:002005-03-23T08:53:55.410-08:00

MaaMaw's Morsels has not died on the vine -- nor has MaaMaw.I haven't been able to keep up this week, and I apologize. I will be back with a vengeance.Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1111122569742563522005-03-17T21:09:00.000-08:002005-03-18T20:20:13.613-08:00

This is over my head, so I'll just send you straight to the horse's mouth:  iDownload Threatens Lawsuits To Silence Critics.Luv,MaaMawThe Most Comprehensive Internet Marketing Course On the Planet

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1111122047395330942005-03-17T21:00:00.000-08:002005-03-18T20:18:03.623-08:00

Ick!  I can't imagine wanting this, but then again, I don't use a whiteboard except with the kids, and then I just snap a digital picture if I want to keep something.It's a sheet you press over your whiteboard, then peel it off and voila!  You've got a paper copy.  If this is something that tickles your fancy, you can get a free sample from their website.Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1111073195259833992005-03-17T07:26:00.000-08:002005-03-17T07:30:14.566-08:00

Personally, I have no interest in this; all I want is to get it out of my face as fast as possible.  But if you have other ideas, in this post The Roadie tells you how to get started.  (This man is not only a professional spam investigator/terminator but also a self-proclaimed fanatic who loves every minute of it... a powerful combination indeed!)Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1111071395962770502005-03-17T06:56:00.000-08:002005-03-17T06:56:35.963-08:00

Darren at ProBlogger did some pretty impressive research into how long the average reader pours over your blog (and as one who "blogs til she bleeds," I must say it's enough to make me yank out the last of my hair). Well worth your time... and if you stick with it, the "96-Second Window of Opportunity" section at the end is sure to cheer you up. Luv, MaaMaw Scams 101... How To Smell a Rat

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1111070514788714962005-03-17T06:41:00.000-08:002005-03-17T06:47:54.526-08:00

This whole thing is brand new to me, so I'll spare you any useless commentary.  Here's the article.You can put yourself on the list to be notified as Yahoo adds new products for publishers.Thanks to the Marketing Secrets Blog for calling this to my attention so I could call it to your attention :-)Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1111069399396894642005-03-17T06:23:00.000-08:002005-03-17T06:23:19.396-08:00

Some excellent advice in this thread if you're buried in an avalanche of spam. You'll want to pay special attention to the replies by Jim and The Roadie. Luv, MaaMaw MaaMaw's Favorite Last-Chance Scam-Proof Business Opportunities

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1111068401915537212005-03-17T06:06:00.000-08:002005-03-17T06:09:54.016-08:00

A few days ago, Rick K. posted the following question on the Friends In Business Board:"I'm currently trying to write sales copy for a website I'm building, and I need a Woman's perspective..."You walk into a meeting, gathering, church, or wherever. You're dressed in your very best "Sunday-go-to-meeting" clothes. You're looking good, feeling very sharp."THEN, a woman walks in wearing the SAME

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1111011726661723142005-03-16T14:22:00.000-08:002005-03-16T14:27:07.186-08:00

There's a virtual work-at-home trade show coming up this weekend, and they allow only one representative from each company.  If you're interested (and someone didn't beat you to it), you'll find the details and contact info here.Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110988659293673632005-03-16T07:57:00.000-08:002005-03-16T07:58:00.690-08:00

What a great thread this is, especially the three-part story about the mechanics who passed up every chance to effectively sell their services.This really hits home for me.  My medical transcription business paid the bills (usually), but I shudder to think how successful I could have been if I had made even one change; for example, following one successful lady's advice to "tell everyone what you

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110987752406949962005-03-16T07:42:00.000-08:002005-03-16T07:43:35.196-08:00

I'll start you off with the first message in this thread, but be sure to keep reading for a chance to learn from The Great Don Alm.The biz involves producing an ad-supported "newspaper" that sits on the table in restaurants, and you absolutely must be able to do the face-to-face thing.Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110986816547035252005-03-16T06:44:00.000-08:002005-03-16T07:31:57.500-08:00

Two real-life success stories, both of which sprouted from the decision to focus on one thing rather than constantly trying something "better" and going in seven different directions...John McTighe's cleaning and maintenance businessand, from my favorite self-made millionaire in the whole wide world...Jim Straw's wig empire.Very good stuff!Luv,MaaMawJim Straw (Guaranteed 100% Scam-Proof!)... my

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110983232378648172005-03-16T06:27:00.000-08:002005-03-16T08:46:22.403-08:00

Funny I should stumble on an article called Escape the Culture of Complaint this morning..I'm going through a messy situation in my own life -- one which has yanked the mortgage and insurance money right out from under me -- and it stems, I believe, from The Culture of Complaint, The Culture of Me, and The Culture of Life Ain't Fair.For 23 years I ran a reasonably successful medical transcription

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110950213843710132005-03-15T21:16:00.000-08:002005-03-16T06:28:02.750-08:00

This is a neat idea:  drumming up new business for a roofing company.  Your cut comes from the difference between the actual price and the quote you leave on the front door.This was posted by Mike S., who says, "I know this one works."Luv,MaaMawMaaMaw's Favorite Last-Chance Scam-Proof Business Opportunities

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110949678742407472005-03-15T21:07:00.000-08:002005-03-15T21:17:26.216-08:00

Here is a positootly outstanding thread about the realities of making money online (or not).  Especially valuable is the response by Debbi Bressler.Luv,MaaMawP.S. This is an really, really good thread, so if you get "No Message," you'll want to check the "Success Forum Archive Menu," probably about Archive 180.

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110949322394190992005-03-15T21:02:00.000-08:002005-03-15T21:03:13.570-08:00

Great timing!  I can really use this thread on backing up your files.  Lots of options!Luv,MaaMawThe Most Comprehensive Internet Marketing Course On the Planet

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110949076159842832005-03-15T20:57:00.000-08:002005-03-15T20:57:56.160-08:00

Mark Flavin posted this message on Tony's board.  It's all about how to find niche keywords for your website, including a discussion of "under used free tools" such as NicheBot and several others. Luv, MaaMaw P.S. Remember, if you get "No Message," it's because they roll into the archives pretty fast.  The "Success Forum Archive Menu" is linked in itty-bitty letters near the top of the

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110736748562936762005-03-13T09:59:00.000-08:002005-03-13T10:00:46.236-08:00

I just found a good article on the "I Gotta Tell You" blog that discusses three ways to protect your ebook from thieves.  (I know, I know, don't worry about it, but I confess, this is one of my personal bugaboos; it keeps me awake at night.)Any other tried & true methods?  Please share!  Leave a comment -- or better yet, reach a lot more people by starting a new thread on the Friends In Business

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110656903613972092005-03-12T11:45:00.000-08:002005-03-12T11:51:34.873-08:00

RATS!!  I can't even have a "Whoa Doggy!" moment and get it right!  Oh well, I've learned something new in the process, so all is not lost. It seems that starting your Google search with "Site:" will show all the pages on that site which have been indexed by Google.If you want to see all the places that link to that site, you start your search with "Link:" (you knew that all the time, didn't you

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110639121946965802005-03-12T06:52:00.000-08:002005-03-12T06:52:01.946-08:00

Well, maybe six, since we're about to pick one apart. They come from "7 Practical Tactics to Turn Your Blog Into a Sales Machine" from a site called MarketingSherpa, but I like what Des Walsh has to say about the article, so we're getting there by way of his "Thinking Home Business" blog. I'm no expert, but I agree with Des's views on blogging less than daily.  When I was out of town recently,

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110603121829988342005-03-12T06:39:00.000-08:002005-03-12T06:39:36.780-08:00

and I listen (as should you).Even though I can't personally use his specific biz ideas because I'm a total wimp when it comes to anything face-to-face, his magnificent "entroopeneerial" brain holds gems for all of us.This time, he tells how he keeps his eyes and ears open to new ideas everywhere he goes and how, when he sees a good thing, he grabs it, expands on it, takes it home, and makes it

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110602826205336022005-03-12T06:30:00.000-08:002005-03-12T06:31:06.186-08:00

Someone asked where to find a free tool to keep track of his adword competition.  This thread offers several -- some free, some paid.Luv,MaaMawP.S. Remember, if you get "No Message," it's because they roll into the archives pretty fast.  The "Success Forum Archive Menu" is linked in itty-bitty letters near the top of the board.  There's no way to be sure, but I'm guessing you'll find this thread

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110637511051902612005-03-12T06:21:00.000-08:002005-03-12T11:45:17.986-08:00

This is SO dumb I'm almost embarrassed to put it up here like some kind of major breakthrough, but it's new to me so maybe... just maybe... it's new to at least one more person in the whole entire universe.Did you know if you type "site:" into your Google search, you will get all the places that link to that site? For example:  site:friendsinbusiness.blogspot.comWhoa Doggy!  (Okay, so you

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110558930588658532005-03-11T08:35:00.000-08:002005-03-11T08:39:15.656-08:00

Mel's back at it...A while ago, she asked people to post their "dream business" idea and promised to do a bit of research and come back with the pros, the cons, and a very basic plan.  I'll go back and dig up the other two or three (sorry, I completely forgot to post them here, stupid MaaMaw!).In the meantime, here is Steve's Dream Business:  shopping (and maybe cooking) for fire fighters.Mel

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110554204803582932005-03-11T07:16:00.000-08:002005-03-11T07:16:44.803-08:00

Whoa!  I didn't realize how important it is to use "double opt in" when you take subscriptions.  This post explains why. Thanks, Roadie! Luv, MaaMaw The Most Comprehensive Internet Marketing Course On the Planet

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110429411365455812005-03-10T17:31:00.000-08:002005-03-10T17:36:24.176-08:00

Have I told you before how much I love Mike Long's blog on building profitable niche sites?  (I thought so.)Ohmigawd, now he's giving homework!  Can you think of a better way to stay on track?Here's the next installment:  Let's Start Preparing to Build a Site!!And the next:  Learning the Art of NicheI haven't had a chance to sit down and really soak these lessons up yet so I might have missed it,

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110133137628077092005-03-10T16:35:00.000-08:002005-03-10T16:42:10.643-08:00

I strongly recommend you read this message from TheBigDog first, then hustle your hiney over to Scams 101 and read it start to finish.Consider this a gentle reminder:You need to learn how to spot a scumbeezle before you pull that nice shiny credit card out of your wallet.Luv,MaaMawP.S.  If you get "No Message," it's in Ye Olde Archives -- just type archive1/ right after board1/.

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110428803066276222005-03-10T16:26:00.000-08:002005-03-10T16:31:33.720-08:00

This is a neat little article about making the sale by attracting people... kind of "sharing the joy."I've had my kids' adoption book ready to go for a while now, but I just can't seem to get the sales page right, so I put it on hold.  My pitches are usually pretty effective -- not exactly traditional, but the ooo's and aahhh's and general squealing work very well for me.I knew something was

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110429020114647392005-03-10T16:13:00.000-08:002005-03-10T16:28:55.680-08:00

I'm not an Ebay seller, so I can't guarantee this news is new news, but it seems there is a wave of scams using the Buy-It-Now feature.  If it's new news to you, hustle on over and read the details here.Luv,MaaMaw MaaMaw's Favorite Last-Chance Scam-Proof Business Opportunities

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110407431998353572005-03-09T14:30:00.000-08:002005-03-09T14:35:05.886-08:00

Kiddies, this tale of woe happens to refer to Emerald Passport.  It could be any one of a bzillion "opportunities."They all promise to lead you to financial independence and Porsches and Villas on the Italian Riviera.  They're more likely to lead you straight to bankruptcy court.Don't dismiss this guy's friend as stupid.  His lesson has been pretty cheap so far, and his failure to see the light

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110345558550036132005-03-08T21:19:00.000-08:002005-03-08T21:20:57.496-08:00

Ever lusted after a domain name you couldn't have?  One day it might just expire, and if you don't know what you're doing, you'll be out of luck again.  There's much more to snatching up an expiring domain name than you might expect.  This article by Mike Davidson explains the process in great detail.Luv,MaaMawVisit the FIB Message Board

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110344853561929342005-03-08T21:07:00.000-08:002005-03-08T21:07:33.560-08:00

One Craig Perrine is holding a free 90-minute webcast on March 15.  The topic will be the "the 3 keys to building your mailing list and profiting from it."  You'll find the details on Alice Seba's blog. Luv, MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110329624387360142005-03-08T16:53:00.000-08:002005-03-08T16:55:28.983-08:00

Here's a list of 109 biz ops that have been given cease & desist orders.Some do it right away and some drag their feet, so it never hurts to have the list in front of you.Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110302624914076312005-03-08T09:21:00.000-08:002005-03-08T09:23:44.916-08:00

Dear Kiddies,I just found this FTC action against one American Merchant Technologies, who is apparently engaged in the business of selling internet kiosks and "ATM terminal business ventures."I don't even know what an "internet kiosk" is, but at this point I have to assume that's a good thing.Luv,MaaMawScams 101... How To Smell a Rat Before It Bites You In the Hiney

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110301235646270232005-03-08T09:00:00.000-08:002005-03-08T09:01:36.700-08:00

Here's a good discussion of various copyright issues, focusing on "fair use" and whether ads can be copyrighted.If you don't have time for the whole thing but this topic is of interest to you, I would recommend you at least read this post.Luv,MaaMawThe Most Comprehensive Internet Marketing Course On the Planet

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110300878584982522005-03-08T08:54:00.000-08:002005-03-08T08:54:38.583-08:00

Not too many details in this thread about starting and/or running such a business, but there's lots of good discussion, some talk about a course on the subject, and a great pep talk. Definitely worth checking out if a pet photography business is in your future. Luv, MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110300408880316152005-03-08T08:46:00.000-08:002005-03-08T08:47:38.900-08:00

This is a little off-topic, but I couldn't resist sharing this thread on how to sell your house or used car.Lots of good stuff here, with contributions by The Great Don Alm.Luv,MaaMawThe Most Comprehensive Internet Marketing Course On the Planet

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110300161722604272005-03-08T08:42:00.000-08:002005-03-10T15:54:02.170-08:00

Here's a brief thread on getting your book listed with Amazon.Taking that one step further, here's an article that says Amazon Advantage is not a good deal for publishers or authors.I have no experience either way yet, but it never hurts to see both sides of the coin!Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110299515256286312005-03-08T08:31:00.000-08:002005-03-08T08:36:25.690-08:00

A lady by the name of Helen Farmer is writing an ebook entitled "101 Light Bulb Moments" -- that moment when you smacked yourself upside the head and screeched, "Why didn't I think of that before?"  She want's your light-bulb moment -- plus I think this thread bears watching as some light-bulb moments are bound to be shared over the next couple of days (and Helen herself posted a few in her "

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110299053971464652005-03-08T08:24:00.000-08:002005-03-08T08:25:17.293-08:00

This is so far over my head that I locked myself in the bathroom with a bottle of Tylenol just three paragraphs in -- but if your brain can wrap itself around technically-oriented stuff and you're interest in how the world's greatest search engine does its thing, this article provides an in-depth "Peek Into Google."I'm sure it's very fascinating indeed, but count me out!Once again, this "scoop"

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110298302427453782005-03-08T08:11:00.000-08:002005-03-08T08:11:42.426-08:00

I just discovered a free search-engine optimization course by Brad Callen, called 7 Days To Massive Website Traffic.  The links to the seven lessons come one at a time in emails, so I've only read Lesson #1, but if the others are as good as this one, I think it will be well worth your time. Thanks to Tony Blake's forum for pointing me in the right direction. Luv, MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110042480810028182005-03-05T09:08:00.000-08:002005-03-05T09:10:51.976-08:00

Alas, I discovered another irresistible blog (and I hated blogs just one short month ago?).  This one is What's Your Brand Mantra? by Jennifer Rice.I owe my discovery to this article at Blog Business World.  It caught my eye because I'm having a hard time adjusting to the idea of linking to oodles of other blogs.  It's becoming obvious to me that this is "the thing to do" in blogging circles, but

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1110040640925620702005-03-05T08:37:00.000-08:002005-03-05T08:39:40.593-08:00

Whoa doggy!  I've never understood why web sites look so much better on my laptop and desktop than they do on two other computers in my house.  Problem solved!And I thought it was just a crummy screen.Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109951083730215872005-03-04T07:44:00.000-08:002005-03-04T07:44:43.730-08:00

If you're interested in blogging for bucks, this diary of an amateur who's trying it may interest you.  It's a step-by-step chronicle of his journey. Thanks to Bob Johnsen over at Tony Blake's board for posting this. Luv, MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109817396131076182005-03-02T18:36:00.000-08:002005-03-02T18:37:16.836-08:00

Kiddies, Willie Crawford is hosting a "networking and brainstorming call" every Saturday this month.  They apparently offer a "free critique/makeover" of three websites each week.  No guarantee spaces are still available, but this is the place to get the details.Luv,MaaMawVisit the FIB Message Board

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109777316064740922005-03-02T07:28:00.000-08:002005-03-02T07:29:15.976-08:00

Thanks, Kelly Sutton, for posting this nice summary on FIB.  (Be sure to also read the search tip that follows.)Newbies, Wannabes, and Yet-To-Be-Scammed...Don't stop there!  Go right on to Scams 101 and read it start to finish.  Grab a few brownies on the way in; it's long (but lots of fun).Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109776749554316812005-03-02T07:14:00.000-08:002005-03-02T07:20:59.373-08:00

Mike Long, who calls himself "the ADD poster child" (lie! my husband is!!) reveals how he used a simple whiteboard to get himself on track and stay there after more than two years of dabbling and making virtually no progress (and where have I heard that before?).Here's the article... but don't stop there.  His entire blog is a step-by-step guide to creating profitable niche sites.This is a person

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109775350537506352005-03-02T06:55:00.000-08:002005-03-02T07:00:55.546-08:00

So far, none of my bloggies have turned into "discussions," so I'm posting a question about this on the FIB board.Here is Mike Long's article that got me wondering how this works and how much it is frowned upon.I'm anxious to see Mike's follow-up:  he has customized the templates so that his Traffic Equalizer now functions in a way he is comfortable with (he didn't like having thousands of pages

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109774215391403732005-03-02T06:36:00.000-08:002005-03-02T06:36:55.393-08:00

For ADS of course (and shame on you!). Darren over at Problogger doubled his income overnight by changing the position of his Google Adsense ads.  Apparently he isn't alone.  After you read his article, be sure to read the comments for more tips... especially "Google's Golden Triangle" (if your eyeballs do what my eyeballs do, the image will prove the point). Luv, MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109697765823466622005-03-01T09:22:00.000-08:002005-03-01T09:22:45.823-08:00

I love ProBlogger!  According to Darren, bloggers everywhere are blogging about the Oscars today... and if they're doing it because they think people are going to be searching for it, they're out of luck. It's all about "anticipating"... one of my biggest bugaboos. Find out how to make hot topics work for you. I may be way off here, but couldn't you put the same concept to work on your web

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109695519934046312005-03-01T08:45:00.000-08:002005-03-01T08:50:09.926-08:00

I like this post.(A one-liner?  Quick, call Barbara Walters!)Luv,MaaMawP.S.  If you get "No Message," it's in Ye Olde Archives -- just type archive1/ right after board1/.

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109609242285936132005-02-28T09:37:00.000-08:002005-02-28T09:39:32.623-08:00

I haven't had time to actually download anything yet, so I can't vouch for the value of any of this stuff.  I just wanted to tell you it's available and where to find it.As you leave the site, you'll see a big yellow sales pitch.  No, you haven't been duped... you're free to leave.There will be an email waiting in your inbox to confirm your subscription (necessary to get the freebies).  Once

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109611092560570252005-02-28T09:18:00.000-08:002005-02-28T09:26:58.993-08:00

UGH!  I've worried incessantly (and loudly) about who owns my blog (i.e., what if Blogger changes the rules?).  Well here's something I wouldn't have thought about in a million years:  Who Own's the Comments?At first glance, I wasn't quite sure how this could possibly affect me, since I have no plans to publish my blog as a book or do much of anything with it except to keep on bloggin'.  Alas,

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109606368904906732005-02-28T07:59:00.000-08:002005-02-28T08:01:04.400-08:00

Here's a nice thread on growing your affiliate base and finding JV partners.Hmmmm.... maybe I'm blogging instead of finishing CCHell because I'm afraid to even think about such things as "affiliate base" and "JV partners."  I've gotta have a long talk with myself.Carry on.Luv,MaaMawMaaMaw's Favorite Last-Chance Scam-Proof Business Opportunities

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109605477766487252005-02-28T07:44:00.000-08:002005-02-28T07:45:19.263-08:00

I'll skip the commentary this time (and the crowd cheers), because I don't even know what PHP is.If you do, and it's something you want to learn, the replies to this question will direct you to various tutorials and "a great comprehensive book" on the subject.Luv,MaaMawWant To Make Money On the Net But You Don't Know Diddly?

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109605180570585622005-02-28T07:39:00.000-08:002005-02-28T07:40:43.856-08:00

This is a self-described high-level overview of the steps required to take an offline video and put it online.Too complicated for me (also too expensive, around $1,000), but he puts all the steps in a neat little package and offers to answer more specific questions.Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109522233758542012005-02-27T08:27:00.000-08:002005-02-27T08:53:02.576-08:00

I love the uncluttered look of the Thinking Home Business blog.In this entry, there's a good article about avoiding "bad manners" while blogging.The article happens to be talking about bad manners in blog comments, but the effect is the same everywhere.  I've learned all about it in the ugliest possible way on my own message board, where "bad manners" by unwelcome guests can wreak havoc."Bad

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109520553358577572005-02-27T08:05:00.000-08:002005-02-27T08:11:04.283-08:00

Then you need to read this article right now (and be sure to follow the "rupees" link at the bottom).I repeat... WHOA!!Luv,MaaMawVisit the Friends In Business/Scams 101 Message Board

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109518305199839712005-02-27T07:26:00.000-08:002005-02-27T07:31:45.200-08:00

This is a nonprofit organization with an impressive list of members so far.  They don't ask for your money... just your expertise!  This, in itself, makes it worth checking out :-)After an exhaustive search, I found that they now have an official web site, but you'll find much more information on this page.I gather it's a fairly new organization (several months old?), and you can still get in "on

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109434734225512742005-02-26T08:18:00.000-08:002005-02-26T08:44:53.273-08:00

Thanks to Buzz Marketing With Blogs for pointing the way to all these wonderful blogging articles at About.com...First, the two that are mentioned in "Buzz":The Top 7 Ways To Encourage Blog InteractionWeb Logs  (I didn't like this one as well... guess I'm more into specifics, but it does link out to many other relevant articles, so definitely worth a look-see).Next, several dandy articles you're

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109431566083648082005-02-26T07:09:00.000-08:002005-02-26T07:36:23.233-08:00

Kiddies, consider yourselves warned:  "MaaMaw's Musings" means "Rambling Rant Coming."  I've just recently started following blogs, blogs, and more blogs so I can bring you The Best Of The Bloggies.I thought I hated all blogs, but I found out I only hate Stupid Blogs.Do you have any idea how many marketing blogs are just one sales pitch after another?  It really ticks me off to waste time reading

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109430188674296192005-02-26T07:03:00.000-08:002005-02-26T07:03:08.673-08:00

How convenient... right about the time I'm wrestling with whether an ebook is enough, I found this:  Willie Crawford's Marketing Insights: Free Recording, Why You MUST Publish A Physical Book. I'm off to request a copy. Luv, MaaMaw Want To Make Money On the Net But You Don't Know Diddly?

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109428684163759112005-02-26T06:38:00.000-08:002005-02-26T06:42:00.286-08:00

Well crappy-doodle!  It seems the list I mentioned is a tad outdated.  (Eee gads, the copyright notice says 2001; I should have noticed that!)You might want to read this follow-up message on Tony's board.I'm not sure how relevant it is because the poster refers to his website almost being shut down due to spam complaints from some of the newsletters on that list -- but the list was about

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109395649773054112005-02-25T21:27:00.000-08:002005-02-25T21:28:35.606-08:00

I love this!  Maybe I won't make my husband detail car interiors on the weekends after all :-)This thread at Cyberschmooz has bzillions of suggestions to help you start, grow, and run this fun(!) business.Luv,MaaMaw

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109375541695386832005-02-25T15:52:00.000-08:002005-02-25T15:52:21.696-08:00

Hmmmm, this is interesting... Do you check your ordering system on a daily or weekly basis to make sure it's working, or do you assume all systems are go until someone gripes about it?  (Remembering, of course, that most people aren't going to bother griping... they're going to leave, never to be seen again.) One Erin Houston asks the question and wonders out loud if people would be interested

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-10690829.post-1109349660927889362005-02-25T08:26:00.000-08:002005-02-25T08:45:44.153-08:00

Kiddies, I just discovered Buzz Marketing With Blogs and was surprised to find there is a "Dummies" book by the same name, but I digress...You absolutely must read these interviews if you're blogging or or even thinking about it:First is an Interview with ProBlogger Darren Rowse... "Pro" meaning a guy who earns a living with his blogs (is that exciting or what??).  Besides being just plain

Lesley Fountainnoreply@blogger.com