Free Resources from SPI Media
“What does this make possible?” That's the question that I've been proposing to the SPI Media team, my students, and any person who I come across who may be feeling a little bit anxious during these times.
Today is very reminiscent of the time I was let go from my architecture job in 2008, during the recession. And although that was a hard time in my life, looking back, it was a huge blessing in disguise. It was only after considering it an opportunity, rather than a drawback, that things finally started to happen. It was the inspiration and help from others that I truly have to thank for how I ended up better on the other side of it.
I'm hoping these resources, and everything else we have available to you on this website and brand will help you. We're here for you.
Also, join me LIVE every morning on YouTube so that you can join the community of other people who may be going through something similar, and ask questions to learn about potentially what next steps to take.
— Pat Flynn; CEO, SPI Media
Editor's Note: As of October 31, we've given over $5.8 million in free courses and books. From the entire team at SPI Media, we are so very grateful for all of you, and for our ability to do our part to assist you. We'll keep adding to this page, so do let us know if you come across a resource you feel would benefit our wonderful community.
Free Podcast
Emergency Episode #1: Covid-19 and Maintaining Your Business
Free Podcast
Emergency Episode #2: Steps to Take When You Get Laid Off
Free Podcast
Emergency Episode #3: Your Undiscovered Opportunity During this Time of Crisis
Free Podcast
Emergency Episode #4: Podcasting During Covid-19 (and Your Big Opportunity)
Resources mentioned in this episode include:
Buzzsprout
Podcast Cheat Sheet
Free Advice
How to Work From Home and More…
How Creators Make Consistent Income with PAID Sponsorships
The proven 8-step sponsorship wheel that will help you land consistent, well-paying brand deals allowing you to finally go full-time with your creator business.
learn more
Podcast Topics: 101 Ideas for Things to Talk About
Starting a podcast and looking for ideas and topics? You're in the right spot.
learn more
Free Courses
This Might Be The Time To Start Your Business
Free Books
Books to Motivate You
Let Go: How to Transform Moments of Panic into a Life of Profits and Purpose: Expanded Edition
In 2008, SPI founder Pat Flynn was laid off from his architecture job. From that moment of panic, Pat discovered another side to himself—he found the entrepreneur within. Learn how you can take a similar scary moment in your life and turn it into the fuel for transformation.
Will It Fly? How to Test Your Next Business Idea so You Don't Waste Your Time and Money
Will It Fly? walks you through the process of choosing and testing a business idea. You'll learn how to determine if your idea has merit, if it will succeed in the market you are trying to serve, and if it's a good idea for you.
Links and Videos
Advice and Assistance from Our Friends
Business Advice
Accounting
Our accounting firm, Upsourced Accounting, specializes in working with online creative businesses. In these videos, they offer advice for how to remain calm in the face of our current economic uncertainty.
CARES Act Explanation
Our attorneys, Stansbury Weaver, have put together an explanatory guide for the U.S. government's CARES Act, also referred to as the Coronavirus Stimulus Package. In addition to explaining the personal monetary benefit U.S. taxpayers can expect to receive, this guide also covers the available loans and tax credits offered by the CARES Act. This should not be construed as legal advice; consult your own attorneys and accountants regarding your specific situation.
Mark Stansbury was also a guest on The Wonder Jam with Adam Lehman, answering questions about how the CARES Act will assist businesses.
Crisis Communication
- From Help Scout: Crisis Communication Tips for Customer Service Teams
- From Intercom: How to Manage your Support Communications During a Crisis
Small Business Resources
- From Gusto: COVID-19 Small Business Resource Hub
Navigating Changing Sales Environments
- From Bluehost: COVID-19 Resources
- From Shopify: COVID-19 Resources
- From Stripe: COVID-19 resources for Stripe users
Assistance Programs
Buzzsprout
Free Pro Podcast Accounts for Schools, Government, and NGOs
Buzzsprout is offering free hosting accounts to schools, governmental agencies, and non-profits working to combat COVID-19. To request a free account, sign up for Buzzsprout and click the COVID-19 button at the top. They will be upgrading accounts on a nightly basis. Email [email protected] with any questions. [Editor's note: Buzzsprout is not currently offering this free hosting]
ConvertKit
The Creator Fund
ConvertKit is offering financial assistance to creators for COVID-19 related hardship, up to $500, to help with medical, childcare, housing, or grocery needs. For more information on how to request assistance, visit https://creatorfund.ck.page/.
Industrious
Links to Financial Assistance
SPI Media's Columbus, OH office is located in an Industrious coworking facility, and they have compiled an incredibly useful page detailing financial assistance programs offered by the United States federal and state governments. [Editor's note: This page is not currently available.]
United States Small Business Administration
Small Business Guidance and Loans
The SBA has put together a comprehensive list of resources and advice for small businesses on how to weather the downturn, as well as how to gain access to additional capital. Even if you think you don't need a loan or won't qualify, it's worth checking out this page.
Zapier
Small Business Assistance Program
Existing Zapier customers with 10 or fewer employees are eligible to apply for an assistance grant from Zapier. Click the Learn More button to access the application form. Thanks to Industrious for informing us about this program (seriously, check out that Industrious link above).
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