Over the past two years, there’s been unprecedented growth in the popularity of virtual summits. So, today we’re joined by Krista Miller, an expert on virtual summits and founder of Summit in a Box. She’ll explain why virtual summits have become such an in-demand and profitable service for so many freelancers and virtual assistants. And she’ll also share practical steps for launching your own summit, even if you have a tiny email list!   Podcast Outline: [0:45] Introduction to Krista Miller and the topic of hosting a profitable virtual summit even if you have a tiny email list - Krista tells the story of how she became a thought leader in running virtual summits.  [5:22] How productizing a service is a common pathway for freelancers   Trends shaping the growth of virtual summits during the COVID-19 pandemic  [6:55] #1 Moving from pre-recorded to live virtual events - how people are becoming more comfortable with presenting live events. [7:18] #2 People looking for ways to make their events unique - some examples of how people are making their events stand out. [8:44] #3 People trying paid summits instead of freemium summits - how it’s not a great idea, but it’s being attempted. [9:01] #4 More people trying to launch in-person events - some reasons why hybrid events are also happening.   How freelancers could use virtual summits to sell services in their business  [11:02] #1 List building - how it helps more people know about your services. [11:27] #2 A big cash injection through your all-access pass revenue - how there’s no limits to what you can do with the pass. [11:52] #3 A way to feature your services - how it will help you book out your services during your event. [12:20] #4 The relationships you build with speakers (and attendees) - how it’s most important because of the connections with industry experts who can send you referrals.   Practical steps for launching a summit when you have a small email list [14:16] #1 Get specific on the summit you’re running and the audience you’re targeting - Krista shares an example of what it looks like to host a summit for a different audience. [15:51] #2 Get specific on how you’re helping your audience - how it’s easier to craft a summit that makes a difference for them. [16:27] #3 Get specific with your speakers - how to pitch speakers who have the same audience as your summit.  [17:29] The importance of niching down to make your summit distinctive - Craig shares an example of how this benefited Freelance University’s summit, speakers, and audience. [18:10] Opportunities for freelancers who want to offer services for summit hosts - some examples of in-demand services and roles. [20:49] How to get to know Krista more   Resources and tools discussed in this episode: Freelance University    Learn more about Krista Miller: Website: Summit in a Box  The Summit Host Hangout Podcast  On Instagram: @summitinabox  Traffic and Conversion - Ryan Deiss  Facebook Groups