Let’s have some real talk, shall we?
If you’re still relying only on social media to build your business, I need you to pause for a second. Take a breath. Because girl… you're building your house on rented land.
Social platforms can disappear overnight (remember MySpace?). They can lock your account for no reason, throttle your reach, or decide your perfectly-crafted post gets shown to exactly three people, one of them being your Aunt Linda.
But an email list? That’s yours. It’s like a cozy little corner of the internet where you make the rules.
Let’s unpack this, because I know some of these thoughts might be running through your head:
❓ “Why do I even need an email list?”
Because social media is flaky and algorithms don’t pay your bills.
Your email list is your direct connection to the people who want to hear from you. When someone hands over their email address, they’re saying:
“Yes, I trust you enough to let you into my inbox.”
That’s powerful.
And unlike social platforms that can go cold on you, your list shows up when you send something, no begging, no guessing, no dancing on video (unless you want to, of course 😉).
❓ “But what the heck do I send them?”
This is where so many women get stuck. They think it has to be fancy newsletters with flashing banners and animated gifs.
Nope. You just need to sound like you.
💌 A quick story about your day + a lesson you learned
💡 A helpful tip about something your audience struggles with
🛍 A link to a product or service you love (and maybe earn a commission on)
If you can talk to a friend, you can write an email. Keep it simple, warm, and helpful.
❓ “How do I even get started? I’m not techy.”
Deep breath… because I’ve got your back.
I created a free guide called Simple Marketing Tools for Women Over 50 that walks you through exactly how to:
✅ Brainstorm a domain name that fits you
✅ Purchase your first domain (without spending hours googling how)
✅ Set up the tools that connect your blog or social media to your new list
✅ Start building an audience before you even have a full website
It’s made for women like us … smart, determined, a little overwhelmed … but not giving up.
✨ The Bottom Line?
If you’re starting a business, growing your brand, or building something that matters, you need an email list.
And you can do this, even if tech has never been your best friend.
You don’t have to hustle on social all day.
You don’t have to chase strangers in the DMs.
And you definitely don’t have to learn the hard way like I did.
💌 Ready to finally start your list?
Grab your free copy of Simple Marketing Tools for Women Over 50 right here ➡️ Get Your Free Copy Today!
Let’s stop chasing and start building something solid together.
You’ve got this. 💪
~ Carla
Your Resource Strategist for Women 50+
"Very well put. I've been with a health and nutrition company for over 26 years and I understand exactly what you are going through. I shiver to think what my health might be today at age 68 had I not stuck to my guns as far as practicing what I preach. Yes, I fall off the wagon regularly but my daily routine life reflects taking care of my health. That way I can keep up (somewhat) with my 7 grandchildren. You keep it up, Carla". 
"For most people the thought of venturing out there in pursuit of your dreams, in a place outside of your comfort zones is just what stops them. But I could sense your excitement not resentment in going against the competition. In planting your stake and truly making a difference in the clients experience. That's ultimately what matters, the rest just falls so easily into place. Thanks for that reminder"! 
Carla, I’ve got to say that I LOVE your focus on the joys and challenges facing women over 50. I’m definitely in that camp! I’ve been inspired by your candor, practical ideas, and refreshing determination to joyfully tackle life. The hours we’ve spent on the phone, in person, and through social media have enriched my life immeasurably. YOU are one Fiery Grandma, and I love your style! 
I have known Carla Gardiner for 6+ years. We met at a business training for bring business online. She is a business women at heart and willing to do the hard things to make the results show up. I have watched her run a business, work a job and take care of her family. She is a go getter when it comes to putting in the work to build her business to the level of being able to enjoy her grand kids.
She is the example that age is not a limit it is a tool for sharing knowledge to those she empowers to use their own skills and talents. Excuses are fuel to push her to learn and apply. I have seen her scared to death about implementing new technology and rock it out despite the learning curve.
I love watching you grow into your greatness Carla! Don’t slow down. 
"Carla, you are a model for me to follow. I love your site. And, I like what you have to say - very kind, very gracious. I have to say though that nothing in my life has ever been crystal clear". 
"I've known Carla for 5+ years and can tell you that she has lived every bit of this and more. We shared tears and laughs and hard work....you will enjoy getting to know Carla."