The Bright Balloon
The Bright Balloon is a podcast where Sara Meyer shares bright ideas for your balloon business. We help overwhelmed balloon artists more money, eliminate stress and grow our creative businesses together. Welcome to The Bright Balloon.
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432. Give back without going broke; a marketing masterclass
07/21/2026
432. Give back without going broke; a marketing masterclass
What if your next big marketing win came from a rainy day you almost skipped? Tashonda of The Balloon Parlor got her face on a Cincinnati city bus for free... then gave half the space away to her community. This episode is a masterclass in generous, low-cost marketing. Tashonda has been in business for about six years, works corporate and private events and sits on the board of her local Chamber of Commerce. She shares exactly how she won a free bus wrap through a holiday toy drive, why she filled that bus with other businesses and nonprofits instead of just herself and how those partnerships turned into promotion for everyone involved. We also get into her Balloon Extravaganza; a balloon Easter egg hunt for senior citizens that she funds entirely through sponsors and an Amazon wish list. If asking for help makes you squirm or your marketing budget feels tight, Tashonda will change how you think about it in this episode. In the UGlu Hotline, hear how one listener uses acetone in her setups. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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431. The AI tricks every balloon pro should steal
07/14/2026
431. The AI tricks every balloon pro should steal
I'll be honest; I've spent months calling my ChatGPT dumb. It ignores me, promises spreadsheets it never makes and generally acts like it went to a different school than everyone else's. Then I talked to my friend Lenor... and realized the dummy in that situation might be me. In this episode I catch up with my longtime balloon buddy Lenor of Lights Camera Selfies / Elevate Your Skills, who runs balloons and photo booths out of Hollywood, Florida, and has quietly turned AI into her most reliable assistant. She's not a tech person shouting at you to optimize your life; she's a one-woman show who just wanted her creative time back. We get into the exact ways she uses ChatGPT to track her real balloon costs, fix her helium math, prep for a city commission meeting and even measure a room when she forgets her tape measure. Lenor is becoming a certified AI counselor and launching an intro AI class built for balloon and photo booth pros, so this one is packed with beginner-friendly tips you can actually use. If AI has felt overwhelming or a little icky to you, this conversation meets you right where you are. In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip for covering exposed framing. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! | - - - - On the Bright Side |
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430. What a 3-person partnership actually looks like
07/07/2026
430. What a 3-person partnership actually looks like
What happens when a former social worker, a military veteran and their soul sister decide to go all-in on balloons? You get one of the most creative business models I've seen in a while. In this episode I'm sitting down with Heather and Brian from Soul Sisters Creations in Marysville, Ohio; just outside of Columbus. These two (plus their third partner Megan) went from doing nine events a week out of their house, to Balloonathon, to opening a storefront just two months after competing on a TV show called The Blox. We get into how they divide roles in a three-person partnership, why they hired Brian before Heather even paid herself, how their DIY balloon kits work and a Community Creations Corner concept that honestly blew my mind. If you've ever wondered whether a partnership could actually work in this industry… this one's for you. In the UGlu Hotline, hear what one listener does when a marquee bulb breaks. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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429. Free Money Hiding in Your Balloon Business
06/30/2026
429. Free Money Hiding in Your Balloon Business
Ever feel like you're leaving money on the table without even realizing it? In this episode, I'm breaking down eight ways I've found free money hiding in my balloon business; from credit card points to reusing balloons to rental items that practically print profit. Whether you're just getting started or you've been in the game for years, these strategies can help you squeeze more juice out of the work you're already doing. Some are as simple as making a return you've been putting off, and others could literally set your kids up for retirement. Let's find that free money! In the UGlu Hotline, hear what one listener always has in her bag for attaching to backdrops. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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428. Making self care a priority
06/23/2026
428. Making self care a priority
In this episode I am joined by Shelby who is the owner of Sunny Day Party Art and we are talking about self care and mental health. This was a great interview - a lot of relatable conversation, but also with helpful tips and practical strategies that Shelby is sharing… not as a therapist, but as a fellow balloon decorator, to deal with the stress that comes with this job. We talk about parenthood, asking for help, the pressure we all face and much more. It was a vulnerable conversation that I know so many will relate to. In the UGlu Hotline, hear one of the many advantages of making friends with your “competition”. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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426. From Party City to the World Series
06/16/2026
426. From Party City to the World Series
She went from making her first balloon mosaic with Party City balloons to decorating the Rogers Stadium for the World Series. And the strategy behind her growth? Simpler than you think. In this live episode from the International Balloon Convention, I sat down with Ana Karina of AK Balloons. She is originally from Venezuela, now based in Toronto, Canada, and came to the balloon industry from the corporate world as an accountant. After seven years in business, she now runs a balloon studio with a full team and counts major sports venues among her clients. In this episode, she shares how word of mouth and a simple daily outreach habit built her corporate client base; how she successfully outsourced social media; and why she believes you should never cut your marketing budget no matter what. In the UGlu Hotline, hear what Erin of Young & Wild Balloon Co. does with her SOP docs! RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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425. 87 years of balloons and big values: the Sempertex story
06/09/2026
425. 87 years of balloons and big values: the Sempertex story
Ever wondered about the people behind the balloons you use every single day? This episode is one of those career-highlight conversations you don't want to miss. I sat down with Leo and Marcela of Sempertex at the Sempertex International Balloon Convention in Orlando. Leo is the CEO and Marcela, the VP of Sales and Marketing. We talk about the incredible 87-year history of this family-owned company; from Leo's Austrian grandfather founding it in Colombia in 1938 to the bold decision to focus exclusively on natural latex balloons. Leo and Marcela share how they hire for culture and values, why 65-70% of their team is women, how they work with 250 farming families in a crop substitution program and what the DUR recycled balloon initiative looks like. If you've ever wanted to feel more connected to the brands you depend on, this is the episode. In the UGlu Hotline, hear how one listener searches Instagram to get a better feel of a color before trying it. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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423. How to let hiring be easy
06/02/2026
423. How to let hiring be easy
If you run a balloon business by yourself, you might get to the point where you just can't do it all alone anymore, and that can be a very overwhelming place to be. So I sat down with Jessica, the owner of Balloons by F&F, and we had a very honest conversation about hiring: Who to hire first, The little details about hiring that are easy to forget, What tools are helpful for tracking the work, Some of the mistakes we've made along the way, How to not get lost in the weeds when starting, A position to hire you maybe haven’t thought of, And ultimately, what gets unlocked in your life and your business when you finally hire help. I love talking about hiring because even though it’s scary to start, there are so many right ways it can be done. In the UGlu Hotline, hear why one listener sets a goal to send five hand-written thank you cards each month. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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422. What to do with your cluttered camera roll
05/26/2026
422. What to do with your cluttered camera roll
If your phone’s camera roll looks anything like mine, it’s just thousands of pictures of balloons, mixed in with screenshots of inspiration, mixed in with photos of my family… and no strategy or organizational method to the madness. So in this episode, I’m talking with Dionne, a professional photo manager. She owns Captured Memories Photo Solutions and we are both 17hats ambassadors. She shares some really good insights about photo storage, including: backing up versus syncing your photos (and which option to actually choose) strategies for getting rid of all of the photo clutter why taking screenshots of your own photos compounds the problem By the end of the episode you’ll know what to do to put a system in place so that your camera roll can actually help you and your business, while keeping all those photos of your kids and pets cleanly separated. And thank you to this month's presenting sponsor, Grow My Balloon Biz! Don't forget to check out Carolina’s episode, which was the first one in May. In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip for stuffing balloons! RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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420. Marketing methods: a panel discussion
05/19/2026
420. Marketing methods: a panel discussion
What's actually working for balloon business marketing, and what's a waste of money? In this panel episode, I’m joined by Renisha of Chic Balloons and Alex of Blown Away Decor for a candid conversation about finding clients, spending wisely and what they'd tell someone just starting out. You’ll hear our discussion about each of these marketing methods: Word mouth and local Facebook groups Chamber of Commerce Paid advertising Vendor events and bridal expos Van wraps Printed goods Websites and social media We also talk about how to get your first clients when you have no portfolio and why making what you want to sell is the fastest way to build that portfolio. And thank you to this month's presenting sponsor, Grow My Balloon Biz! In the UGlu Hotline, hear how one listener labels all of her equipment. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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419. Secrets to longevity in the balloon industry
05/12/2026
419. Secrets to longevity in the balloon industry
In this episode I'm joined by Jacqui, who has been in business for 33 years… so I think it's self-explanatory why I wanted to have her on the show. But you’ll also hear about the very interesting work she did before balloons! We are talking about how to build and sustain a business that long, how to keep a passion for balloons, the secret to continuing to make money year after year after year and what’s so special about our industry. Something that I also find really interesting about Jacqui is that she launched her business with a business partner who has since retired and now Jacqui is running the business solo with no intention to retire anytime soon. She also tells us how she had hand surgery and didn't have to turn down any work in the process of recovering! There is so much insight from her experiences in this conversation… enjoy! And thank you to this month's presenting sponsor, Grow My Balloon Biz. In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip about keeping your helium number balloons in the correct order for delivery, so they never look like a number they shouldn’t. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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417. Building momentum with corporate clients
05/05/2026
417. Building momentum with corporate clients
In this episode I am joined by Carolina, and we are going to crack the code on corporate sales! Carolina is the owner of Balloon Element and she is also the owner of Grow My Balloon Biz. She takes us through her own trial and error in approaching corporate clients over the years, and then shares the method she found that actually made the biggest impact… which is simpler than you think! Listen to real scripts, real examples and hear her coach me through a real situation I had. We talk about: What corporate clients are looking for How to approach them How often to approach them What to say How to build momentum Get ready to get motivated! In the UGlu Hotline, hear about two must-have email templates to send after an event. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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416. What it’s really like working with a VA
04/28/2026
416. What it’s really like working with a VA
In this episode, we’re talking about one of my favorite topics: outsourcing your admin work to a virtual assistant. I’m interviewing Nicole, who is my virtual assistant. She's also the owner of Let Nicole Help, and she offers many other services but for me, she primarily helps with sales. She is my client-facing, invoice-sending admin genius who has freed me up from computer work so that I can focus on the part of my business that I really like, which is getting new business and doing installations. We are getting into the nitty gritty about how we met, how we started, the clunky figuring-it-out stage we went through and our recommendations of how you can onboard your own virtual assistant. You’ll also hear us talk through a process improvement we discovered we should make while recording! And one more shout out to this month’s presenting sponsor - Betallic! In the UGlu Hotline, hear what kind of suction cups are great to keep in your toolkit. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! | - - - - On the Bright Side |
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414. Reaching outside of your balloon boundaries
04/21/2026
414. Reaching outside of your balloon boundaries
This was such a fun and inspiring interview. If you've ever felt stuck “just” doing balloons… wondering what's next, how to grow and how to start saying yes to bigger, more creative opportunities… you’re going to love this conversation! I'm chatting with Lizeth and Oscar of Mom's Kloset. They’re a husband and wife team based in Atlanta who started with a bag of balloons and have grown into full-scale fabrications and custom builds. I am such a huge fan of these two and what they create; honestly, I was fangirling during this interview. We recorded live at the International Balloon Convention and we talk about: how they made the transition from balloons into full-on fabrication how they figure things out when they're doing something for the first time what they would actually recommend you start adding to your business if you want to grow outside of balloons. It's one of those conversations that really pushes you to think bigger, but in a way that still feels doable. And a huge thank you to this month's presenting sponsor, Betallic! In the UGlu Hotline, hear a fun tip about sharing scissors. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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413. How Betallic and Sempertex work together
04/14/2026
413. How Betallic and Sempertex work together
This episode is a little bit different, but in a way that I think you're really going to enjoy. If you've ever felt confused about the brands that you're using in your business and wondering what's going on behind the scenes in the industry, you're not alone. Most of us are just in our own businesses doing the work and not really sure what's happening in the bigger picture. But in this episode, I'm bringing you behind the curtain with Andrea and Barry from Betallic. This was recorded live at the International Balloon Convention, and we talked about the connection between Betallic and Sempertex. If that's ever confused you, they explain that relationship, plus what's changed in the industry over time and how they're thinking about supporting balloon decorators moving forward. It's a really insightful behind the scenes conversation, and I think it will give you a lot more clarity and confidence in the brands that you're using to run your business. Episodes this month are sponsored by Betallic! Be sure to check out the Betallic Balloon Club and mark your calendars for IBC in October 2026 in Miami, Florida. In the UGlu Hotline, hear a great tip for a ceiling installation without helium! RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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412. The decisions to make with a storefront
04/07/2026
412. The decisions to make with a storefront
If you are someone who has either grown out of your home-based studio, or you don't even have a spot for a home-based studio, this episode is full of tips for you! I am talking with Heidy of Decor by Heidy about opening a brick and mortar store and some of the choices she made along the way that finally got her to her beautiful store located in Florida. She also shares a really smart idea about outsourcing deliveries and how it’s helped the installation side of her business, too. And I'm excited that this month kicks off a new sponsorship and a new partnership with Betallic, who chose Heidy as their guest! Betallic is known around the world for high-quality foil and latex balloons, and for supporting the balloon community through education and inspiration. If you're looking to grow your skills, be sure to check out Betallic Balloon Club, an online community where you can subscribe for monthly classes (including Heidy’s!), learn new balloon recipes and connect with balloon artists from all over the world. Plus, mark your calendars for the IBC event happening October 20-22, 2026, in Miami, Florida. In the UGlu Hotline, hear one listener’s tip for finding what colors are comparable across brands. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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410. Making organization contagious
03/31/2026
410. Making organization contagious
In this episode, we are talking about something I both love and deeply struggle with: organization. If you're a creative entrepreneur, especially in the balloon world, you probably have a space full of color, sizes, bins, tools, samples, etc. (And let's be honest… at least one drawer of shame!) So I invited Tammy to the show. She is a professional organizer who pivoted from interior design into full time organization. And she's built an entire business helping people get their homes, offices, closets and pantries functioning beautifully. We connected through 17hats, the CRM we both use behind the scenes to run our businesses, and I was excited to have her come on the show to share her knowledge. I wasn’t expecting how much balloon and organization services have in common! We’re talking about systems, labeling, kids, clutter, inventory, overwhelm, junk drawers, and how organizing one tiny space can actually change your entire workflow. So if you are like me and you have projects that you know you need to get done before the busy season hits, hopefully this episode gives you some tips and sparks a little bit of motivation to get your balloon space (or just your living space) a little bit more organized. And thanks once again to this month's presenting sponsor, Tuftex! In the UGlu Hotline, hear one listener’s tip for what to bring to site visits. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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408. A hidden struggle for balloon decorators
03/24/2026
408. A hidden struggle for balloon decorators
This episode is a group panel discussion, and we're diving into something that I think is one of the biggest hidden struggles of running a balloon business: mental health. As a decorator, no one really prepares you for the constant juggling, the inquiries that never stop, the pressure to perform, the comparison on Instagram, the late nights before installs and that creeping feeling of burnout that can hit even when your sales are going well. So I've invited three decorators: Travis, Nicole and Crystal, to have an honest conversation about what this actually looks like in real life. We're talking about boundaries, burnout, comparison and practical ways to protect your energy while still growing your business. I truly hope it helps to open the conversation and gives you some practical tips for improving your own mental health. And thanks once again to this month's presenting sponsor, Tuftex! In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip for adhering UGlu to foils. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! | | - - - - On the Bright Side |
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407. How product photos brought unexpected clarity
03/17/2026
407. How product photos brought unexpected clarity
In this episode, we are discussing the power of a product photo shoot. I went into a photo shoot with the goal of getting good photos… I had no idea how much it was going to revamp my entire business! It’s a replay from the bonus channel, On The Bright Side, where I have 300+ more solo episodes. And it's so fun listening back because when I recorded this a year and a half ago, I hoped it would make a difference in my business. But now I can confidently say it completely revived my booking system and then some. What came from this photo shoot was so much more than pretty photos. It was a streamlined booking system. It was a clear website.It was clarity for my entire team and most importantly, my customers. They're my recipe guides hanging on the walls in my shop. They’re the photos still on my website today. Plus, they're the product thumbnails on my invoices. They're everywhere. And it's really cool to hear where this shift originally started. I'm walking you through exactly why and how I set up a product photo shoot. And because I saw the tremendous impact of clean product photos in my business, I created a product called Sales Sets. They are stock photos of balloon products, exactly what I'm talking about in this episode, but I've made them available to you. So if you want to skip the photo shoot process but still get the benefits I'm describing in this episode, check for the link below. A quick note, when you hear me referencing my newborn, she's two now. I did not secretly have another baby. And thanks once again to this month's presenting sponsor, Tuftex! In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip for using UGlu on foils. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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406. DIY marquees and friendors
03/10/2026
406. DIY marquees and friendors
In this episode, we are talking about a marquee secret that might make you rethink everything. I'm talking with Jenna from Festive & Flair, and when she told me she made her own marquees, I fully assumed we were headed into DIY disposable territory. And then I went to her website and I zoomed way in and thought, there is no way she made these. I have to have her on the podcast. Her marquees are lightweight, clean, reusable, professional-looking marquee letters made out of foam. Yes, foam… but not what you're thinking. And she is breaking down exactly how she does it, how much it costs and why it's one of the easiest upsells you can add to your business without dropping $15-20k upfront. Plus, in the second half of this episode, we get into her “friendor” strategy (basically, networking done right) where she becomes a connector for the entire event and gets paid for it. It’s a fabulous episode that I think is going to give a lot of people a new option when it comes to bringing in marquees as part of your inventory. And thanks once again to this month's presenting sponsor, Tuftex! In the UGlu Hotline, hear one listener’s tip for covering your framing. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! | - - - - On the Bright Side |
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404. Building a balloon empire
03/03/2026
404. Building a balloon empire
If you've ever wondered what it looks like to build a balloon empire, this episode will show you. I'm sitting down with “the Carolina sisters”, Haley and Alley of Carolina Balloons and Confetti, a second generation balloon powerhouse who quietly crossed seven figures in revenue with a team that is basically their family. But first, thank you to this month's presenting sponsor, Tuftex, who selected Haley and Ali as their guest of the month. Tuftex Balloons is the only manufacturer making latex balloons in the USA. They’re committed to providing premium products and building a stronger balloon community through education. They’ve also been so supportive of the podcast, so thank you to such a great company! And Haley and Alley were the perfect Tuftex pick because their dad started the company in the 80s when Tuftex was still called Maple City Rubber. They grew up inside balloon boxes, they were rigging balloon drops before they could drive and now they're running massive corporate installs, stadium confetti blasts, street festivals, LED and traditional marquee setups, giant rental games… and casually doing $200,000 in a single month of sales. We talk legacy, takeover, sales psychology, burnout, pivoting during COVID and we get very honest about what it actually takes to grow this big. Buckle up, this episode is packed! In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip for when your marquee bulbs break! RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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403. Mastering modern, digital etiquette
02/24/2026
403. Mastering modern, digital etiquette
If you've ever wondered if your online presence is doing more harm than good, this episode is for you. It turns out that etiquette isn't just about fancy forks and putting books on your head. It is your secret weapon to making every first impression count… both on and off screen. In this episode, etiquette coach Jules Hirst spills the tea on modern manners that actually work in today's digital world. We connected because we are both 17hats Ambassadors! From crafting the perfect email to mastering small talk and strategic networking, Jules shares simple hacks that elevate your professional game without feeling stuffy. I will for sure be utilizing her tips in my business when it comes to what I wear, how I make my first impression and what to do after a networking event. In the UGlu Hotline, get another great tip from Erin at Young and Wild! RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (mention the podcast for $100 off!) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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401. Premium pickups
02/17/2026
401. Premium pickups
For this episode I sat down with Loretta from Perfectly Popped Balloons in England, live at the Sempertex International Balloon Convention, and we dove into the world of deliverables…or in her case, pickups. As in, the grab-and-go, take-home balloon pieces that can add consistent revenue to your business. Whether you’re brand new or years in, this conversation will give you practical ideas and fresh inspiration if you want to strengthen the smaller, handheld side of your offerings instead of focusing only on large installs that usually dominate the conversation. In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip from Red Balloon Cork in Ireland! RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (mention the podcast for $100 off!) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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400. Limit your menu and skip the studio booking
02/10/2026
400. Limit your menu and skip the studio booking
In this replay of a bonus episode from On The Bright Side, I’m breaking down why limiting your options might be the most powerful move you can make in your balloon business. I walk through how simplifying your color inventory and menu of offerings can make it easier for clients to book, faster for your team to execute and significantly more profitable over time. This approach has helped me reduce stress, streamline training, cut waste and build a business that can grow (or shrink) without chaos. Since I originally recorded this, I've released Sales Sets, which are ready-to-use product images in color palettes that you can purchase instead of doing your own photo shoot to display your menu. So as you're listening, just know you've got two paths. You can absolutely follow along and use this episode as a guide to plan your own menu photo shoot when the time is right; or if you wanna skip the studio booking, inflation and expense, you can use Sales Sets as a plug-and-play option (or even as a placeholder until you're ready to do your own photos). This has been the single best thing I have done to help my customers understand what I'm selling and purchase faster. In the UGlu Hotline, hear why one listener prints and laminates her SOPs. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (mention the podcast for $100 off!) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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398. Profitable organic decor and building trust
02/03/2026
398. Profitable organic decor and building trust
This episode was recorded live from the Sempertex International Balloon Convention, where once again, I sat down with Elisabeth of Pop of Color (Arizona). This is her third time on the podcast, but our first time recording face-to-face! We chat about organic balloons, how this style has earned its place in the industry and what it really looks like to run a profitable home-based balloon business without chasing every trend or install. We cover: pricing based on your market (not competition) setting real profit goals how she structures her prep and install days the client process she refuses to give up, because it's such a game changer for repeat business. This conversation is honest, refreshing and full of all sorts of practical takeaways, especially if you want to make good money without building a massive operation. In the UGlu Hotline, hear one listener’s tip for researching a new balloon color on Instagram. RESOURCES MENTIONED: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (mention the podcast for $100 off!) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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397. Million dollar panel
01/27/2026
397. Million dollar panel
Get ready for tons of inspiring lessons in this episode! It’s a panel discussion with four million dollar balloon business owners, all who came on the podcast out of the goodness of their hearts & I’m so grateful. We talk about: What impacted their growth the most What positions they suggest hiring first Some big mistakes they’ve made along the way Owning / leasing their various spaces Loans, assets and investments Staying motivated Their biggest pieces of advice Thank you so much to our guest panelists: Erin, Blenda, Brian and Chris. I would also like to thank this month's sponsor, Joette of Balloon Coach. In fact, two of the panelists (and myself), will all be on staff at her Balloon Boss Summit this year. So if you like this conversation, just imagine experiencing it in person. Summit is really special for that reason, and it’s intentionally kept small to help attendees create relationships. In the UGlu Hotline, hear a tip from one of the panelists on what she sends to clients in the mail. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: Balloon Coach Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (mention the podcast for $100 off!) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - On the Bright Side |
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395. Advocating for Balloons: The CRC's Mission
01/20/2026
395. Advocating for Balloons: The CRC's Mission
Imagine if tomorrow your city decided to close your business, and before you could even start a conversation, it was too late. It was already written into the law. Right now, our industry is being talked about without us in the room. Decisions about balloons are being made by people who don't understand how professional balloon artists actually work, the care we take, the standards we follow, or the businesses and families that depend on this industry. The Coalition for Responsible Celebrations is trying to make sure that we have a place in that room and that we stay informed about the discussions taking place without us. This month's presenting sponsor is Balloon Coach, and one of the many ways Joette supports our industry is by advocating for the CRC so that none of our businesses are impacted by hasty legislation. This interview took place in person at the 2025 International Balloon Convention, where Joette attended to advocate for the CRC. I hope you’ll consider becoming a member so you can be part of these conversations, too. In the UGlu Hotline, hear one listener’s tip for finishing up her stuffed balloons. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: Balloon Coach Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (mention the podcast for $100 off!) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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394. Using AI in your balloon business
01/13/2026
394. Using AI in your balloon business
Most of us, myself included, are using ChatGPT as a writing assistant or Google on steroids. “Proofread this, write me an Instagram caption for that, what's this rash on my kid's arm?” But we know it's capable of more, especially when it comes to managing a small business. But how? How do we tap into the greater capabilities without wasting time? How do we build systems that are organized or repeatable? Well, we ask an expert. Cue Emily from Utah Balloon Creations. Emily has been on the podcast before where she shared spreadsheets, pricing calculators and tech tips that blew my mind. So I knew that she was the perfect guest to teach us about AI in a practical, usable way. Hear about why she thinks of her AI as a person, the customizations she recommends for your AI, how she avoids rabbit holes with it and the five best practices for using it. In the UGlu Hotline, hear how Erin of Young and Wild Balloon Co. labels everything that leaves her warehouse. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: Balloon Coach Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (mention the podcast for $100 off!) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - Precision Pricing | Emily of Utah Balloon Creations - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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392. Setting goals in a way that actually works
01/06/2026
392. Setting goals in a way that actually works
If you have ever sat down to set goals and immediately felt overwhelmed or like you're just rewriting the same goals you didn't quite hit last year, this episode is for you. I’m joined by Joette of Balloon Coach and we discuss how most business owners don't have a goal problem, they have a clarity problem. Too many ideas, too much pressure, and not enough structure to actually follow through. So in this episode, we are going to help you set goals in a way that actually works, allowing you to make more money without adding more stress to your life. We're talking about fewer goals, better focus and a plan that supports your real life, not a fantasy version of it. By the end of this episode, you'll have a clear direction for the year ahead and a simple way to move forward with confidence without burning out or over-complicating things. In the UGlu Hotline, I share how I label my rental items to help make sure they get back to me. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (mention the podcast for $100 off!) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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390. Annual audit & rebooking strategies
12/23/2025
390. Annual audit & rebooking strategies
In this episode, I’m talking about the importance of doing an annual audit for your balloon business. Analyzing past events, tracking potential repeat clients and setting goals for the upcoming year… it’s all included! Listen in for tips on: Using your calendar and CRM to find data. Focusing on repeatable events for future bookings. Manually tracking important details. Creating a simple rebooking workflow. Setting realistic sales goals based on past performance. In the UGlu Hotline, hear why I make cards for my installation kits. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Presenting sponsor: 17hats () Other sponsors & resources: (save 5% on orders $200+ with code PODCAST) (save 5% on orders $200+ at Havin' A Party with code PODCAST) DM on Instagram to ask a question or leave advice for the UGlu Hotline! - - - - (Apple) (Patreon) | Join the Bright Balloon email list
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