ThinkInsideTheSquare

Hosted by Becca Harpain

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Apr 2025

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About the show

Ever wondered how to make your DIY website pop, turn your online presence into a client magnet, or transform your side hustle into a full-fledged business? You're in the right place! I'm Becca, content creator for InsideTheSquare.co. I've turned my career around, transforming myself from an unknown Squarespace designer into the worlds go-to expert on all things Squarespace in just a few short years. Every Thursday, I'm dishing out actionable advice, insider tips, and game-changing strategies that I've learned from years of hands-on experience in web design, digital marketing, and business growth. Whether you're a solopreneur juggling it all, a creative itching to monetize your passion, or a small business owner ready to level up your online game, Think Inside The Square is your go-to resource for all things digital entrepreneurship. We're talking Squarespace secrets, web design wisdom, content creation hacks, and business strategies that actually work in the real world. But this isn't just another "how-to" show. It's a community of forward-thinking entrepreneurs who believe that creativity thrives within boundaries. Together, we're redefining what it means to build a successful online business, one square at a time. So, are you ready to turn limitations into launchpads and constraints into catalysts for growth? Join me every week for a dose of inspiration, practical tips, and the occasional dad joke. Let's think inside the square and outside the ordinary. Your next big business breakthrough is just an episode away!

Listen to episodes

60 recent

April 10, 2025Episode 8914 min

89: SEO Crash to AI Comeback: How I'm Rebuilding My Squarespace Business

Send a message to InsidetheSquareIf you've ever watched your website traffic drop, your strategy stop working, or your momentum disappear, this episode is for you. In this episode of ThinkInsideTheSquare, I'm sharing exactly what happened when I lost 80% of my website traffic overnight and how I’ve spent the last six months rebuilding my business in a smarter, more sustainable way. From SEO struggles to strategy pivots and launching my own AI assistant, you’ll hear what worked, what didn’t, and how I’ve shifted from chasing metrics to creating content that truly connects.Whether you’re a Squarespace designer, content creator, or small business owner navigating your own digital curveball, this episode will give you real-world insights and encouragement to help you keep moving forward. You’ll learn how to embrace change, rethink success, and start building something better, especially when things don’t go as planned.Important Links📝 Full show notes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast/89🎧 Past episodes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast🤖 Chat with Custom Codey: https://customcodey.com👯‍♀️ Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thinkinsidethesquareSupport the showThe term "Squarespace" is a trademark of Squarespace, Inc. This content is not affiliated with Squarespace, Inc. For a transcript of this episode, along with the links to any resources mentioned, visit insidethesquare.co/podcast

April 3, 202512 min

88: How To Edit Squarespace Responsively

Send a message to InsidetheSquareDid you know more than half of your website visitors are probably on their phones? In this episode, I'm sharing my expert advice on how you can make your Squarespace site look fantastic on every screen size. Hint: It all starts with how you edit.We're diving into mobile-first design (and why it matters SO much), how to use the mobile preview to customize your small-screen layout, and the top three issues that trip up most Squarespace users (text overwhelm, tiny buttons, and broken layouts).I'll share my favorite tricks for creating mobile-friendly designs, including the secret to perfect button sizing, how to fake layered images that look great everywhere, and a simple 3-question test to make sure your site delivers an awesome experience for phone users. Important Links📝 Full show notes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast/88🎧 Past episodes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast🤖 Chat with Custom Codey: https://customcodey.com👯‍♀️ Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thinkinsidethesquareSupport the showThe term "Squarespace" is a trademark of Squarespace, Inc. This content is not affiliated with Squarespace, Inc. For a transcript of this episode, along with the links to any resources mentioned, visit insidethesquare.co/podcast

March 27, 202522 min

87: How to Create & Sell a Custom GPT the Easy Way

Send a message to InsidetheSquareWondering how to turn your expertise into an AI tool that helps others and generates income? In this episode of Think Inside The Square, I'm sharing the straightforward process I used to create Custom Cody, my Squarespace code AI assistant that's now helping hundreds of users with their website customization questions.I'll walk you through my entire journey, including the complicated detours and technical rabbit holes that cost me months of development time, before sharing the much simpler approach I discovered. You'll learn exactly how to evaluate your AI idea, train your custom GPT on your unique knowledge, test it effectively, and share it with your audience using a pricing model that makes sense for your business.This isn't about creating "passive income" (I spend hours every weekend improving Custom Cody!) This is about extending your reach and helping more people with your knowledge. Whether you're a consultant, coach, designer, or specialist in any field, this episode gives you the practical blueprint to package your expertise into a valuable AI tool your audience will happily pay to use.Important Links📝 Full show notes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast/87🎧 Past episodes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast💌 Check out Custom Codey: https://customcodey.com👯‍♀️ Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thinkinsidethesquareCHAPTERS00:00 - The AI assistant I never thought I could build01:00 - What exactly IS a custom GPT? (Simpler than you think!)03:00 - The essential "intelligence test" your AI idea must pass05:00 - My costly over-engineering mistakes (don't repeat these!)07:00 - The OpenAI feature change that changed everything09:00 - Training Custom Cody to speak "Squarespace" fluently12:00 - Real-world testing: The secret to reliable AI responses14:00 - Simple pricing strategies that make everyone happy18:00 - Weekend optimization routine for continuous improvement20:00 - Is creating a custom GPT right for YOUR expertise?Support the showThe term "Squarespace" is a trademark of Squarespace, Inc. This content is not affiliated with Squarespace, Inc. For a transcript of this episode, along with the links to any resources mentioned, visit insidethesquare.co/podcast

March 20, 202519 min

86: From Myspace to AI: How to Keep Your Online Business Relevant in a Changing Digital World

Send a message to InsidetheSquare🔄 Is your online business ready for the NEXT big industry shift? Learn how to spot trends BEFORE they impact your bottom line!In this episode, I'm sharing my decade of experience weathering digital disruptions. From the decline of Myspace to AI design tools threatening to replace designers, I've seen how quickly things can change—and how to position yourself to thrive regardless.🔥 What You'll Learn:Discover 3 powerful sources for spotting trends months before they hit mainstreamLearn which big tech investments signal the future of web design (and what Adobe's moves tell us)Create strategic income diversification that protects you from industry volatilityRecognize the 3 clear signals that it's time for a business pivotImplement my weekly 30-minute trend-monitoring system anyone can follow⭐ New: Try my Squarespace AI assistant Custom Codey at customcodey.com - your 24/7 code helper specifically designed for Squarespace users: customcodey.com💡 PRO TIP: "Don't try to follow every trend—focus on identifying the underlying patterns that signal where the industry is truly heading."Important Links📝 Full show notes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast/86🎧 Past episodes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast💌 Join my email list: https://insidethesquare.co/email👯‍♀️ Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thinkinsidethesquare#SquarespaceExpert #WebDesignBusiness #FutureProofBusiness #OnlineBusinessTips #SquarespaceDesign #WebDesignTrends #AIandDesign #DigitalProducts #BusinessStrategy #PassiveIncome #RecurringRevenue #PivotStrategy #BusinessDiversification #TrendSpotting #SquarespaceTipsSupport the showThe term "Squarespace" is a trademark of Squarespace, Inc. This content is not affiliated with Squarespace, Inc. For a transcript of this episode, along with the links to any resources mentioned, visit insidethesquare.co/podcast

March 13, 2025Episode 8511 min

85: Website 101: Domain, Hosting & CMS Basics

Send a message to InsidetheSquare🏠 Confused about domains, hosting, and CMS? In this episode, I break down exactly what you need to know about domains, hosting, content management systems, and professional email addresses - the essential building blocks with no fluff, just practical information to help you understand what's happening behind the scenes of your Squarespace website.By the end of this video, you'll understand the difference between domains and hosting, know which CMS is right for your needs, and learn how to create a professional email address that matches your domain.⭐ Check out my Blueprint AI tutorial to build your prefab digital home super fast: insidethesquare.co/blueprint⏰ TIMESTAMPS:00:00 Website Basics: What You Need to Know02:00 Domains Explained: Your Digital Address03:00 Hosting: The Land for Your Website Home04:00 Content Management Systems Compared05:00 Squarespace Blueprint: Build a Site in 30 Minutes06:00 Professional Email: Level Up Your Business Credibility08:00 Connecting External Domains to Squarespace09:00 Next Steps: Secure Your Digital Real EstateImportant Links📝 Full show notes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast/85🎧 Past episodes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast💌 Join my email list: https://insidethesquare.co/email👯‍♀️ Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thinkinsidethesquareSupport the showThe term "Squarespace" is a trademark of Squarespace, Inc. This content is not affiliated with Squarespace, Inc. For a transcript of this episode, along with the links to any resources mentioned, visit insidethesquare.co/podcast

March 6, 2025Episode 8420 min

84: Building a Thriving Membership Community with Squarespace

Send a message to InsidetheSquare Want to turn your Squarespace website into a thriving membership community where people connect, engage, and happily pay for your expertise?In this step-by-step tutorial, I break down exactly how to use Squarespace Member Areas to create an exclusive space your audience will love. I'll show you my favorite workarounds for Squarespace's limitations and the third-party tools that take your membership to the next level!Building a successful membership doesn't require a huge following or complex tech - just Squarespace plus the strategies I'm sharing today. Let's transform your audience into a genuine community!🔥 What You'll Learn:The exact structure of a successful Squarespace Member AreaCreative content ideas that keep members engaged (beyond just courses!)My clever workaround for community features Squarespace doesn't haveHow to properly integrate Slack/Discord with your membershipEmail strategies that dramatically increase member retentionImportant Links📝 Full show notes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast/84🎧 Past episodes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast💌 Join my email list: https://insidethesquare.co/email👯‍♀️ Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thinkinsidethesquareSupport the showThe term "Squarespace" is a trademark of Squarespace, Inc. This content is not affiliated with Squarespace, Inc. For a transcript of this episode, along with the links to any resources mentioned, visit insidethesquare.co/podcast

February 27, 202530 min

83: SEO in the Age of AI: What Actually Works in 2025 with Mariah Magazine

Send a message to InsidetheSquareHave AI-generated articles been pushing your content down in search results? In this episode, I'm talking with SEO expert Mariah Magazine about how the battle between AI and SEO is reshaping visibility for Squarespace website owners.Discover why your authentic voice might be your greatest SEO advantage and how to stand out in an increasingly AI-dominated landscape. If you've been wondering whether SEO is still worth your time, this conversation will give you the clarity and confidence to move forward.In this episode, you'll learn:• How AI content is changing search results and why it's not all doom and gloom• Why personal brand matters more than ever in SEO• How ChatGPT actually uses Bing's database, not its own index• Why YouTube is becoming critically important for authentic content• Practical strategies to make your content shine in both traditional and AI searchImportant Chapters:01:10 Meet SEO expert Mariah Magazine04:48 Breaking away from fear-based SEO tactics08:28 The impact of AI-generated content on search results14:51 How keywords are evolving but not disappearing19:05 The surprising truth about ChatGPT's database21:34 Why YouTube is becoming increasingly important23:41 The human connection element AI cannot replicate25:16 Predictions about the future of AI and SEOImportant Chapters01:10 Introduction to Mariah Magazine and her SEO approach04:48 Breaking free from fear-based SEO tactics08:28 How AI-generated content is impacting search results14:51 The evolution of keywords and search intent19:05 How ChatGPT uses Bing's database, not its own index21:34 Why YouTube is becoming increasingly important23:41 The human connection element AI can't replicate25:16 Predictions about the future of AI and SEO29:00 How Google's interface might evolveImportant Links📝 Full show notes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast/83🎧 Past episodes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast💌 Join my email list: https://insidethesquare.co/email👯‍♀️ Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thinkinsidethesquareSupport the showThe term "Squarespace" is a trademark of Squarespace, Inc. This content is not affiliated with Squarespace, Inc. For a transcript of this episode, along with the links to any resources mentioned, visit insidethesquare.co/podcast

February 20, 2025Episode 8213 min

82: The Business Owner's Guide to Sustainable Content Creation

Send a message to InsidetheSquareEver had that "aha!" moment where something clicks and you can't wait to share it? That's exactly what this episode is about! Join Becca Harpain, Squarespace expert and founder of InsideTheSquare.co, as she reveals how those everyday discoveries can become the foundation of engaging content that builds trust with your audience.In this episode, you'll discover:Why the solutions that seem "obvious" to you are actually gold mines for contentHow to identify and capture content opportunities in your daily workA practical system for turning your expertise into valuable contentThe importance of consistency in content creation (and how to find your rhythm)Why your unique perspective matters, even in a crowded market🎯 Action Steps:Start a content ideas log (notebook or phone) for one weekDocument client questions, repeated processes, and "that was easy!" momentsCreate three pieces of content from your best ideasSet a realistic consistency goalCommit to your schedule for three months💡 Key Takeaway: Your expertise isn't just in the complex solutions – it's in all those little "oh, that was easy" moments that could be game-changing for someone else.Important Chapters:0:00 How to Create Valuable Content from Your Business Expertise2:06 Why Your "Simple" Solutions Are Actually Valuable Content3:32 Content Creation Myths: Has Everything Been Said Before?5:11 Finding Your Unique Value Proposition in Content Creation8:40 Creating a Sustainable Content Strategy for Business Growth10:29 How to Build a Three-Month Content Plan That Works12:32 Action Steps for Consistent Content CreationIMPORTANT LINKS📝 Full show notes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast/82🎧 Past episodes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast💌 Join my email list: https://insidethesquare.co/email👯‍♀️ Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thinkinsidethesquareSupport the showThe term "Squarespace" is a trademark of Squarespace, Inc. This content is not affiliated with Squarespace, Inc. For a transcript of this episode, along with the links to any resources mentioned, visit insidethesquare.co/podcast

February 13, 202521 min

81: From PhD to CSS: Squarespace Career Advice from Christy Price

Send a message to InsidetheSquare🎨 Ever dreamed of turning your love for web design into a thriving career? Join me for an incredible conversation with Christy Price, a 20-year web design veteran who went from coding in grad school to becoming one of the most respected Squarespace designers in the industry!In this episode, Christy shares the surprising story of how a random conversation on a ski lift changed her entire career path (and why she's so grateful it did!). You'll discover how she transformed her coding skills into a successful design business, and why she chose Squarespace as her platform of choice after testing literally every website builder available.🔥 What You'll Learn:→ The exact moment Christy realized web design was her calling→ How she went from slicing up Photoshop files to building stunning Squarespace sites→ Her genius method for handling client revisions (this will save you hours!)→ The #1 tip she wishes she knew when starting out→ Why she left WordPress behind and never looked back→ Her secret for maintaining work-life balance while running a successful design business💡 PRO TIP FROM CHRISTY: "Start reverse engineering websites you love! Find Squarespace sites that inspire you and figure out how they were built. That's how you'll build an amazing toolkit of solutions."🔔 SUBSCRIBE for weekly Squarespace tutorials, design tips, and expert interviews! New episodes every Monday.❤️ COMMUNITY: Share your biggest takeaway from this episode in the comments below! What surprised you most about Christy's journey?IMPORTANT LINKS📝 Full show notes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast/81📚 Christy's Courses: https://learn.christyprice.com/a/sx8zy🖥️ Christy's Site: https://christyprice.com🎧 Past episodes: https://insidethesquare.co/podcast💌 Join my email list: https://insidethesquare.co/email 🖼️👯‍♀️ Follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/thinkinsidethesquare- - -The term "Squarespace" is a trademark of Squarespace, Inc. This content is not affiliated with Squarespace, Inc. The accuracy of information in this video is subject to change.Support the showThe term "Squarespace" is a trademark of Squarespace, Inc. This content is not affiliated with Squarespace, Inc. For a transcript of this episode, along with the links to any resources mentioned, visit insidethesquare.co/podcast

February 6, 202515 min

80: 5 Website Mistakes That Can Tank Conversion Rates (and how to fix them!)

Send a message to InsidetheSquareIn this episode, you'll learn about the five common mistakes that might be secretly sabotaging your website's performance. Whether you're selling products, booking services, or growing an email list, you'll discover why even the most aesthetically pleasing websites can struggle to convert.Beyond identifying these common pitfalls, we dive deep into practical, code-free solutions that you can implement immediately. Learn why clear copy is so crucial, how to make your typography work for (not against) your message, and why giving visitors too many choices might be hurting your conversion rates. I'm also sharing a simple 5-second test that can immediately reveal if your homepage is working for or against you. This episode is packed with actionable strategies to transform your website from a pretty digital business card into your hardest-working team member.Important Links📝 Full show notes: insidethesquare.co/podcast/80🎧 Past episodes: insidethesquare.co/podcast💌 Join my email list: insidethesquare.co/email 🖼️👯‍♀️ Follow me on Instagram: instagram.com/thinkinsidethesquareSupport the showThe term "Squarespace" is a trademark of Squarespace, Inc. This content is not affiliated with Squarespace, Inc. For a transcript of this episode, along with the links to any resources mentioned, visit insidethesquare.co/podcast