If You Know You Know with Maren Crowley

Hosted by Maren Crowley

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Episodes

143

Latest episode

Jun 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Seeking truth and getting real -- helping you discover your strength and voice to make the best, informed choices on YOUR terms in accordance to HIS will. Maren invites listeners to explore and understand the complexities of making informed decisions that align with their values and beliefs. Read episode show notes transcripts on my website at marencrowley.com

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60 recent

June 16, 202637 min

Moms, Ditch the MLM: Why UGC Is the Smarter Way to Earn

In today’s episode, I’m sharing my very real and no-nonsense take on why I walked away from network marketing—even as a top 1% earner—and why UGC (User Generated Content) and content creation offer more freedom, flexibility, and ownership for women, moms, and creators looking to build sustainable income streams online.I’m breaking down the realities, the hard truths, and the lessons I learned after a decade in the trenches of MLMs like Beachbody. If you’re tired of being sold on “flexibility” while being tied to someone else’s rules—or you’re ready to pivot into building online income on your own terms—you’re in the right place.Read full show notes on my website →In this episode, I get candid about:Why most MLM “entrepreneurship” is actually ownership in name onlyThe emotional and financial costs nobody talks about in network marketingHow skills gained in MLM can be transferred to real opportunities in UGC and digital businessWhy so many women (especially moms) are waking up and pivoting to more authentic, sustainable ways to earn onlineWhat makes UGC a game changer—no recruiting, no quotas, no inventory, just getting paid for your work and skillsWhether you’re stuck, skeptical, burnt out, or just curious what’s on the other side of the MLM world—you don’t want to miss this one.Birthday Month = Community + CoursesLock in Maren’s current pricing on the courses and get access to the community + monthly calls. Simple, doable, and designed to help you land brand deals.Get UGC Income Blueprint →, Path to Profits → or the Bundle →In each episode we’re seeking truth and getting real – helping you discover your strength and voice to make the best, informed choices on YOUR terms in accordance to HIS will.Follow and connect with me on IG > @macrowleyListen, read show notes and get resources for all episodes on my website.>> The UGC Income Blueprint Course <<Your Step-by-Step Plan to Land Paid Brand Deals Without a Big Following. No gatekeeping or withholding info from you here. Learn more and enroll>> https://marencrowley.com/blueprint

June 9, 202627 min

Why Turning 40 Hits Different: Real Lessons on Aging, Business, and Motherhood

Turning 40 hits different. In this episode, I get real about what it means to hit a new decade—not just the societal expectations, but the mindset shifts, the grief, and, most of all, the incredible lessons that come with embracing both gratitude and growth.I break down the 40 biggest lessons life and business have taught me so far, share the raw truth about aging, pivoting in business, motherhood, and protecting your peace. Whether you’re building new income streams, redefining success, or juggling all the hats as a mom, this episode is for you.Read full show notes on my website →🔑 3 Key TakeawaysMultiple Income Streams Equal Freedom: Relying on one income stream is a risky game in today’s unpredictable world. Building skills in UGC, affiliate marketing, coaching, and content creation opens up options and flexibility—and that’s real financial security.You’re Never Too Old or Too Late to Reinvent Yourself: Reinvention isn’t just allowed; it’s necessary. Every pivot—whether in business, motherhood, or personal growth—is a chance to become more of who you really are. Growth means letting go of who you were to make space for who you’re called to be.Protect Your Peace and Family—Relentlessly: Boundaries aren’t just a buzzword—they’re essential for protecting your energy, marriage, and kids. Not everyone gets to weigh in on your choices. Sometimes, loving your family well means limiting time with people—family included—who disrupt your peace.In each episode we’re seeking truth and getting real – helping you discover your strength and voice to make the best, informed choices on YOUR terms in accordance to HIS will.Follow and connect with me on IG > @macrowleyListen, read show notes and get resources for all episodes on my website.>> The UGC Income Blueprint Course <<Your Step-by-Step Plan to Land Paid Brand Deals Without a Big Following. No gatekeeping or withholding info from you here. Learn more and enroll>> https://marencrowley.com/blueprint

June 2, 202628 min

The Invisible Work of Motherhood: What Is the Mental Load?

The mental load is the invisible cognitive labor of running a household — the constant remembering, anticipating, and managing that most moms carry alone, all day, every day.In this episode, Maren breaks down the three layers of the mental load (remembering, anticipating, and delegating/following up), the emotional labor and guilt that sit on top of it, and why it seems to get heavier in modern motherhood. More importantly — what actual change looks like. Hint: it's not about splitting chores 50/50.If you’ve ever felt guilty for needing a break, overwhelmed from invisible tasks, or frustrated by the feeling that other people just don’t see what you’re holding—all while loving your family deeply—this episode is for you. I also discuss the importance of real partnership and practical ways to start unloading some of what you’re carrying.→ Read the full show notes on my websiteTopics covered:What the mental load actually is (and what makes it invisible)The 3 layers every mom carries simultaneouslyWhy type B moms carry it just as much as type AWhy asking for help is still workWhat real partnership and ownership look likeWhy imperfect is sometimes the most sustainable choiceIn each episode we’re seeking truth and getting real – helping you discover your strength and voice to make the best, informed choices on YOUR terms in accordance to HIS will.Follow and connect with me on IG > @macrowleyListen, read show notes and get resources for all episodes on my website.>> The UGC Income Blueprint Course <<Your Step-by-Step Plan to Land Paid Brand Deals Without a Big Following. No gatekeeping or withholding info from you here. Learn more and enroll>> https://marencrowley.com/blueprint

May 26, 202623 min

The FTC Just Called Out MLM Income Lies — Here's Why It Matters To You

There's a good chance I get fired up in this one. An Instagram reel from a top-earning MLM influencer, boarding a chartered plane in Christian Louboutins, mocking women doing UGC and Amazon content — with the implication that network marketing is what made it all possible. Now, even the FTC is stepping in.In this episode, I'm using my own background as a top 0.01% Beachbody earner to break down why the lifestyle being marketed is not representative of what most people will experience — and what the data actually says about MLM income claims.→ Read the full show notes on my websiteWe cover:The FTC's recent enforcement action and what it meansWhy top earners aren't proof the model works for average participantsThe real math: 73–99% of MLM participants earn little to nothingWhy UGC, Amazon Influencer, and digital income give the average person a far better shotIn each episode we’re seeking truth and getting real – helping you discover your strength and voice to make the best, informed choices on YOUR terms in accordance to HIS will.Follow and connect with me on IG > @macrowleyListen, read show notes and get resources for all episodes on my website.>> The UGC Income Blueprint Course <<Your Step-by-Step Plan to Land Paid Brand Deals Without a Big Following. No gatekeeping or withholding info from you here. Learn more and enroll>> https://marencrowley.com/blueprint

May 19, 202623 min

Faith + Finances: How I Think About Provision Without Panic

In this episode, I open up about the realities behind financial stress, and dive deep into how faith, stewardship, and mindset influence the way I navigate uncertain seasons—especially when it comes to provision and inconsistent income.From the sticker shock at the gas pump to the anxiety-inducing pressure of social media comparison, I’m sharing personal experiences and lessons that can help you shift from panic and scarcity to peace and clarity. We’ll explore the true cost of “success,” why multiple streams of income matter, and practical strategies for finding contentment and resilience—even when it feels like you’re barely keeping afloat.Whether you’re facing a financial downturn, feeling overwhelmed by social media’s highlight reel, or just need a reminder that peace beats panic every time, this episode is here to encourage you. You’re not alone, and your situation does not define you.→ Read the full show notes on my website3 TakeawaysFaith Isn’t Doing Nothing—It’s Showing Up Without Fear: My approach to faith means actively doing the work, making wise decisions, and letting go of panic. Trusting God and being proactive are not mutually exclusive.External Success and Internal Peace Aren’t the Same: The “perfect” lives we see online or in wealthy circles rarely show the sacrifices and trade-offs involved. I’ve learned not to envy a lifestyle if I wouldn’t want the hidden cost.Diversifying Income & Practicing Gratitude Build Resilience: Multiple streams of income have been a lifeline through changing seasons. Daily gratitude practice with my husband has helped us focus on abundance rather than lack, even in tough times.In each episode we’re seeking truth and getting real – helping you discover your strength and voice to make the best, informed choices on YOUR terms in accordance to HIS will.Follow and connect with me on IG > @macrowleyListen, read show notes and get resources for all episodes on my website.>> The UGC Income Blueprint Course <<Your Step-by-Step Plan to Land Paid Brand Deals Without a Big Following. No gatekeeping or withholding info from you here. Learn more and enroll>> https://marencrowley.com/blueprint

May 14, 202613 min

The Real Cost of Being an Influencer — And Why UGC Changed Everything for Me

One of the biggest misconceptions in the online space? That becoming an influencer is the ultimate goal. In this episode, I'm getting real about the difference between UGC creators and traditional influencers — and why I've intentionally chosen a path that protects my privacy without sacrificing income.More on my website →In this episode:Why a big following is NOT the only path to making money onlineThe real difference between UGC (creating content for brands) and influencing (sharing your actual life)My hospital story — being recognized at 20,000 followers and what it made me realizeHow I became a top 20 creator on a major platform without showing my kids' facesWhy privacy doesn't limit your income — it just changes your approachKey Takeaway: You can build income through content without being a public figure. You don't need a massive following. You don't have to share everything. That's 100% what I love about UGC.If you want to learn how to build income through content without relying on a big following, that's exactly what I teach inside my UGC course. Link is below.In each episode we’re seeking truth and getting real – helping you discover your strength and voice to make the best, informed choices on YOUR terms in accordance to HIS will.Follow and connect with me on IG > @macrowleyListen, read show notes and get resources for all episodes on my website.>> The UGC Income Blueprint Course <<Your Step-by-Step Plan to Land Paid Brand Deals Without a Big Following. No gatekeeping or withholding info from you here. Learn more and enroll>> https://marencrowley.com/blueprint

May 12, 202611 min

When Brands Say No: How UGC Creators Turn Rejection into Opportunity

In this episode, I dive deep into a topic that not many people in the UGC (User-Generated Content) world talk about—rejection. We often see the big wins, the partnerships, and the success stories, but behind every “yes” are countless unanswered emails, pitches that missed the mark, and flat-out nos.Today, I break down what rejection really means, how to process it in a healthy way, and how you can actually use it to your advantage. I draw on my experiences in network marketing and UGC, share insights on handling no’s from brands, and give practical advice on follow-ups, building relationships, and keeping your mindset in the right place.Whether you’re brand new or a seasoned content creator, this conversation will help you reframe the way you handle rejection and set you up for long-term consistency and growth.More on the episode page →3 Key TakeawaysRejection is Normal—and Not Personal: Not every brand will say yes, and that’s okay. Most of the time, rejection is about timing, budgets, or fit—not your value as a creator.Feedback Moves You Forward: Instead of feeling discouraged, use a no as an opportunity to audit your approach. Ask yourself questions: Was my pitch clear? Am I aligned with the brand? Am I showcasing my strengths?Consistency & Relationship-Building Matter Most: Follow up (professionally, not pushy!), nurture relationships with brands, and stay visible by continually creating content. Brands remember creators who communicate well and consistently show up; sometimes, a no just means "not right now".If you've been feeling discouraged, this one's for you. Time to take action.In each episode we’re seeking truth and getting real – helping you discover your strength and voice to make the best, informed choices on YOUR terms in accordance to HIS will.Follow and connect with me on IG > @macrowleyListen, read show notes and get resources for all episodes on my website.>> The UGC Income Blueprint Course <<Your Step-by-Step Plan to Land Paid Brand Deals Without a Big Following. No gatekeeping or withholding info from you here. Learn more and enroll>> https://marencrowley.com/blueprint

May 5, 202622 min

Growing Your Following Without Burning Out: What Actually Works

Welcome to another episode of the If You Know, You Know podcast! Today I’m pulling back the curtain on one of the biggest myths in the online space: that you have to constantly be posting to grow your following and earn an income. After years in content creation—and especially since becoming a mom—I learned that chasing growth at the expense of your presence just isn’t sustainable.In this episode, I share my journey of drawing boundaries, handling backlash from followers, and the mindset shifts that allowed me to create content with intention, not overwhelm. I’m breaking down the difference between content that connects and content that burns you out, plus practical strategies for growing your audience (and your income) without being tethered to your phone 24/7.Whether you’re a seasoned creator, a newcomer to UGC, or just looking to reclaim your time and sanity, this episode is your permission to simplify.More on my websiteEpisode HighlightsMy personal story of setting boundaries with my online presence after becoming a mom, and why I don’t share every detail of my life—or my children—onlineThe truth behind burnout: why posting more isn’t the solution and what actually works for growthThe importance of clear, relatable, and intentional content over forced, trendy, or copycat postsWhy follower count isn’t everything—brands want quality, authentic content, not vanity metrics3 Key TakeawaysYou Don’t Need to Document Everything: Growth doesn’t come from sharing every moment. Focus on what is truly worth posting—protect your presence and your precious off-time.Quality Over Quantity: Fewer, better posts that connect with your audience will take you further than daily, rushed, or trending content that doesn’t align with your brand.Be Consistently You—On and Offline: Your online voice and real-life self should match. Trust comes from authenticity, and both audiences and brands notice when you’re in alignment.In each episode we’re seeking truth and getting real – helping you discover your strength and voice to make the best, informed choices on YOUR terms in accordance to HIS will.Follow and connect with me on IG > @macrowleyListen, read show notes and get resources for all episodes on my website.>> The UGC Income Blueprint Course <<Your Step-by-Step Plan to Land Paid Brand Deals Without a Big Following. No gatekeeping or withholding info from you here. Learn more and enroll>> https://marencrowley.com/blueprint

April 28, 202613 min

What a Niche Actually Is — And How to Find Yours Without Feeling Boxed In

In this episode, I dive into what a niche truly is—and what it isn’t. If you’ve ever felt boxed in or confused when someone tells you to “pick a niche” on social media, you’re not alone. I share my own journey of balancing multiple identities (golf professional, mom, content creator) and why niching down is more about clarifying your message than cutting off parts of yourself.You’ll hear how I approach my own content, how I use different aspects of my life for context and credibility, and some hard-earned lessons about staying in alignment with your values. I also walk through tangible steps to help you discover your own niche without feeling limited, so you can grow an authentic and sustainable online presence.More on the episode page on my website. In this episode:The 3 questions every niche must answerWhy your life is the backdrop, not the topicHow values-based niching lets you earn across multiple categoriesReal examples from my own content and UGC workHow to find your niche starting todayIn each episode we’re seeking truth and getting real – helping you discover your strength and voice to make the best, informed choices on YOUR terms in accordance to HIS will.Follow and connect with me on IG > @macrowleyListen, read show notes and get resources for all episodes on my website.>> The UGC Income Blueprint Course <<Your Step-by-Step Plan to Land Paid Brand Deals Without a Big Following. No gatekeeping or withholding info from you here. Learn more and enroll>> https://marencrowley.com/blueprint

April 23, 202615 min

UGC vs MLM: Truths, Myths, and What You Need to Know to Succeed

Have you ever seen someone claim they're making $1,600 a week doing UGC and immediately thought — "okay, but what's the catch?" That reaction is completely valid, especially if you've been through network marketing.In this episode, I'm breaking down the real difference between UGC and MLMs — and why they are not the same thing, no matter how similar they can look on the surface. I've lived both worlds, and I'm sharing what I know from real experience, including a story where I made $320 from one brand simply by showing up and delivering fast.Read more and access resourcesIn this episode:Why the MLM skepticism around UGC is earned — and where it comes fromThe one key difference between UGC and MLM that changes everythingWhat's really behind those big income claims (and what they actually require)A real-life example of how speed and reliability built a repeat client relationshipWhat it actually takes to start getting paid as a UGC creatorClarity builds trust — and trust is what gets you paid.In each episode we’re seeking truth and getting real – helping you discover your strength and voice to make the best, informed choices on YOUR terms in accordance to HIS will.Follow and connect with me on IG > @macrowleyListen, read show notes and get resources for all episodes on my website.>> The UGC Income Blueprint Course <<Your Step-by-Step Plan to Land Paid Brand Deals Without a Big Following. No gatekeeping or withholding info from you here. Learn more and enroll>> https://marencrowley.com/blueprint