This interview is with Laura Rike, CEO at SimplyPintastic®.

Laura Rike, CEO, SimplyPintastic®

Laura, can you tell us a bit about yourself and your journey to becoming an entrepreneur?

My journey into entrepreneurship was never a straight line but more of an evolution, shaped by a lot of trial, error, and ultimately, purpose-driven choices. I started out as a virtual assistant over a decade ago, diving into the world of design and tech with both feet. What started as a side hustle quickly became something bigger when I realized I could combine my skills with a clear mission: helping business owners find clarity and growth in the online world. From there, I honed in on Pinterest marketing, recognizing its potential not just as a traffic source but as a platform for sustainable, long-term growth. As a mother of three and someone deeply invested in creating a legacy, I saw Pinterest as a way to help other business owners build something that lasts, something meaningful. SimplyPintastic was born out of my passion for helping people scale their visibility without the overwhelm. It’s been a 13-year journey, and every day I’m fueled by a desire to make a real impact—not just for my clients but for the broader community and causes I care about. It's been challenging, rewarding, and an incredible adventure, and I'm grateful every day for the opportunity to turn what I love into a force for good.

What pivotal moments in your career led you to where you are today?

A defining moment in my career—and life—came one afternoon when I was deep in the grind, juggling endless client requests as a virtual assistant, hustling nonstop just to keep up. My business had no clear focus back then, and I was saying "yes" to everything. I was burning the candle at both ends, feeling like I had to be available around the clock to keep things going. This pace was unsustainable, but I didn't realize how much it was costing me until my son, then just five or six years old, came over to me and quietly shut my laptop. He looked up at me and, with complete innocence, asked me to come play with him, saying, "You're always on your computer." I can't put into words how much that hit me. In that moment, I realized I was missing the very things I valued most—time with my family and the freedom I'd hoped entrepreneurship would give me. My drive to provide had turned into a cycle of constant work, and that simple gesture from my son was like a wake-up call. That was the moment I knew something had to change. I needed to find a way to work smarter, to create a business that aligned with my values instead of taking me further from them. I pivoted, narrowed my focus to Pinterest marketing, and developed a framework that would allow me to help clients grow while setting healthy boundaries for myself. This shift transformed everything. It wasn't just about growing a business anymore—it became about creating a life where my work didn't come at the expense of my family. That moment with my son is a reminder I carry with me every day: to stay present, to stay intentional, and to build a business that supports my life instead of running it. Another, more personal turning point came when I realized that I wanted my business to fund a nonprofit I'm currently organizing for adopted adults. Knowing that SimplyPintastic could become a vehicle for greater impact beyond client work fueled my commitment. It's a reminder that what I'm building isn't just for me; it's for a purpose much larger than myself. Each of these moments pushed me to grow, refine my mission, and step into my role not just as a business owner but as someone actively shaping a legacy.

You emphasize the importance of clear SOPs and delegation. Can you share a time when delegating a task didn't go as planned and what you learned from that experience?

Delegating can be an incredible way to free up time, but I learned early on that it only works when the expectations and instructions are crystal-clear. One experience really highlighted that for me. I’d assigned a critical task to a team member without a fully detailed SOP because, in my mind, the steps were “obvious.” I assumed they’d know the nuances as well as I did, so I only provided a few basic instructions. When the project came back, it was clear there were gaps, and the result wasn’t what I had envisioned. I found myself redoing parts of the task, which not only set us back on time but also made me realize that I was still clinging to control. The error wasn’t theirs; it was mine for not providing the step-by-step guidance that was necessary. That experience taught me that effective delegation means creating robust SOPs that don’t leave room for guesswork. Now, I use Tango for screenshot steps and Berrycast for video walkthroughs. This way, every detail is laid out, and team members feel confident and fully equipped to tackle the task. It’s not only saved time and prevented errors but has empowered my team to take on more responsibility with clarity. The biggest takeaway? If you want results you can count on, delegate with all the tools and guidance you’d want if you were the one receiving the task.

You mentioned using tools like Tango and Berrycast for visual documentation. How have these tools specifically impacted your team's productivity and efficiency?

Implementing tools like Tango and Berrycast has significantly enhanced our team's productivity and efficiency. Here's how each has contributed:

Tango: Streamlining Process Documentation

Tango enables us to create detailed, step-by-step guides effortlessly. By capturing workflows in real-time, it generates comprehensive documentation that is easy to follow. This has been invaluable for onboarding new team members and ensuring consistency across tasks. The ability to produce clear, concise guides without extensive manual effort has saved us considerable time and reduced errors.

Berrycast: Enhancing Communication Through Video

Berrycast allows us to record and share screen recordings with voiceovers, facilitating asynchronous communication. This is particularly useful for explaining complex processes or providing feedback. Team members can view these recordings at their convenience, leading to more flexible and efficient collaboration. The visual and auditory elements help convey information more effectively than text alone.

Combined Impact on Productivity and Efficiency

Together, these tools have transformed our approach to documentation and communication. They have reduced the time spent on creating instructional materials and minimized misunderstandings. By leveraging visual aids, we've improved knowledge retention and empowered our team to work more autonomously. The result is a more agile and responsive team, capable of maintaining high standards with less oversight.

In summary, Tango and Berrycast have been instrumental in optimizing our workflows, leading to a more productive and efficient team environment.

You're a strong advocate for utilizing downtime for growth. What are some practical tips for entrepreneurs who struggle to disconnect, even during travel?

Absolutely—finding ways to disconnect can be transformative, especially for entrepreneurs who often feel tethered to their business 24/7. Here are a few strategies that have helped me (and my clients) make the most of downtime for both personal rejuvenation and growth, even during travel:

1. Set Intentional Boundaries Before You Go.

Define your non-negotiables before you set out. Whether it's only checking emails once a day or setting a hard "no work after 6 p.m." rule, pre-establish these limits. Let your team or clients know your boundaries so they can respect them, and stick to them yourself.

2. Batch Work Ahead of Time.

Plan and schedule as much as possible before you travel. Use tools for social-media scheduling, set automated replies, and prep any content that can run on its own. This helps you avoid last-minute work or the pull to check in constantly, freeing you to be present where you are.

3. Create a Mindful Morning Routine.

Carve out the first hour of your day for something that grounds you, like meditating, journaling, or simply savoring your morning coffee with no interruptions. This practice builds a routine of intentional stillness and clarity, creating a mindset for both relaxation and focus.

4. Designate 'Growth Time' for Learning.

Instead of reaching for your phone, bring along a good book, podcast, or audiobook that fuels you on a personal or professional level.

5. Set 'Unplug' Hours Daily.

Establish a few hours each day where you completely disconnect from tech—no checking emails, social media, or notifications. This time can be for exploring, being with family, or just resting, which is often when the best ideas and insights pop up.

6. Focus on Self-Reflection and Big-Picture Goals.

Use downtime as an opportunity to reflect on the bigger picture of your business. Journaling about your goals, strengths, and future plans helps you reconnect with your purpose and can even inspire new ideas to bring back to your work with a fresh perspective.

7. Practice Gratitude.

It sounds simple, but gratitude is a powerful way to connect with the present moment. Each day, jot down a few things you're grateful for, especially those related to this time away from work. This practice helps reinforce the importance of balance and rejuvenation as part of a healthy, fulfilling business journey.

Each of these practices not only helps create space for growth and relaxation but also strengthens your ability to recharge, bringing you back to work with greater clarity and creativity.

Your approach to social media marketing, especially on Pinterest, focuses on repurposing content for long-term organic growth. Can you walk us through your process of transforming one piece of content into multiple Pinterest assets?

Repurposing is all about maximizing the value of a single piece of content, turning it into multiple Pinterest assets that drive long-term growth. Here’s a breakdown of my process:

1. Identify the Core Content

I start with one primary piece of content, like a blog post, video, or podcast episode, that addresses a key topic my audience needs. This core piece becomes the anchor point for everything we’ll create.

2. Extract Key Themes and Takeaways

Next, I pull out 3-5 main points or sections from the content. These highlights form the basis for multiple pins with varied perspectives, each focused on a unique angle, insight, or tip.

3. Create Different Pin Formats

I design multiple pins to target different user preferences, including:

Standard Pins with captivating images and headlines for broad reach.

Infographic Pins to break down complex topics visually.

Carousel Pins to showcase step-by-step processes or listicles.

Video Pins to capture attention with dynamic visuals.

Each format gives the content new life and appeals to Pinterest’s diverse audience.

4. Optimize for Keywords and Search Intent

For each pin, I craft descriptions and titles using keywords that align with Pinterest’s search algorithm. The goal is to tap into search intent, ensuring that each pin reaches the right users and stays relevant over time.

5. Add Context with Strong CTAs

Each pin includes a strong call-to-action (CTA) that encourages users to click through. This could be “Learn more,” “Discover tips,” or “See the full guide.” These small cues guide users to take the next step, leading them back to the core content.

6. Schedule Strategically

Finally, I schedule the pins over time instead of posting all at once. This staggered approach keeps the content fresh and ensures visibility over weeks or even months, driving consistent traffic and engagement.

7. Track and Refine

I monitor performance data to see which pin styles and formats resonate most. This helps refine the approach for future content, so every pin strategy becomes stronger and more aligned with audience preferences.

Through this method, one piece of content transforms into multiple, highly-targeted Pinterest assets that work together to build long-term organic growth. The best part? Each asset continues to drive traffic, visibility, and leads, creating lasting value from a single piece of content.

You mentioned that Pinterest ads, combined with Facebook retargeting, were a game-changer for your business. How can entrepreneurs effectively integrate these two platforms for optimal lead generation?

Integrating Pinterest ads with Facebook retargeting is a powerful way to capture attention and nurture leads effectively. Here’s how entrepreneurs can combine the two platforms for optimal lead generation:

1. Start with Pinterest Ads for Discovery

Pinterest is an ideal platform for capturing users who are in the discovery phase, actively searching for inspiration or solutions. Begin by creating Pinterest ads that promote high-value content—think blog posts, free resources, or product highlights. Focus on keywords that align with what your ideal customer is searching for, and use visually appealing pins to drive clicks and traffic to your site.

2. Optimize Your Pinterest Ad for Intent

Tailor your ad content to align with user intent on Pinterest, where people are more open to exploring new ideas. Use strong calls-to-action (CTAs) like “Learn More” or “Download” to guide users to take that initial step, whether it’s visiting a landing page, downloading a guide, or subscribing to a newsletter. This helps you capture warm leads right from the start.

3. Pixel the Traffic for Retargeting

Once users visit your site through Pinterest ads, capture that traffic using a Facebook Pixel installed on key pages. This pixel allows you to retarget those users later on Facebook and Instagram, helping you stay top of mind as they move closer to making a decision.

4. Use Facebook Retargeting Ads to Re-engage

Now that you’ve introduced your brand on Pinterest, re-engage users with Facebook ads tailored to their stage in the buying journey. You can create custom audiences based on actions they took on your site, such as visiting a certain page or downloading a resource. For example, show testimonials, limited-time offers, or case studies to keep their interest and nudge them toward a purchase.

5. Test, Track, and Adjust

Monitor metrics on both platforms to see where users engage most and which ads are converting. Use insights from Facebook retargeting to refine your Pinterest ads and vice versa, creating a feedback loop that optimizes both campaigns.

By strategically using Pinterest ads to attract leads and Facebook retargeting to convert them, entrepreneurs can create a full-funnel marketing approach that brings in new leads and nurtures them to conversion in a seamless, cost-effective way.

Many entrepreneurs, especially in the service industry, rely heavily on client relationships. What role does transparency play in your client interactions, and how do you maintain it?

Transparency is at the heart of every client relationship I build, especially with busy entrepreneurs who value clarity but need the freedom to focus on their core business. My clients come to me because they lack time, not because they don't want to understand the process. That's why I prioritize multiple communication channels and consistent updates, allowing them to stay fully informed without needing to manage every detail themselves. With 3–4 different communication modalities—whether through email, project-management tools, messaging apps, or scheduled calls—clients have access to me and my team during office hours, ensuring a quick response whenever they need it.

Beyond easy access, I maintain full transparency on each project's progress. Clients can see everything we're doing day in and day out through regular updates, giving them real-time visibility into our work. This 'open-book' approach not only shows them that we're dedicated to their goals but also reinforces trust by keeping them directly connected to the progress of their campaigns. They're not just hearing about results; they're watching them unfold.

I also encourage questions and open communication, welcoming any inquiries about our strategies or processes. By breaking down complex tasks into straightforward explanations, I ensure clients stay informed and comfortable with what's happening on their accounts. Knowing they can reach out at any time without hesitation builds confidence in our partnership, allowing them to feel involved and valued.

To strengthen this transparency, I provide clients access to anyone on my team during office hours, so they're never left without support or clarification. This collaborative approach makes them feel like part of a team dedicated to their success, not just an external service.

Ultimately, transparency in my client interactions is about more than regular updates or availability; it's about building genuine, trust-based relationships. By giving clients clear visibility into every action we take on their behalf, they know they're supported by a team that respects their goals and their time. This foundation of open, accessible communication creates a partnership rooted in accountability and mutual understanding, helping us grow together.

Looking back on your entrepreneurial journey, what advice would you give your younger self about navigating the challenges and celebrating the wins?

Looking back, I'd tell my younger self to embrace both the highs and the lows with equal appreciation. The entrepreneurial journey is a series of challenges and triumphs, and each one has a purpose. First, I’d remind myself not to fear mistakes. They are going to happen, and they’re some of the best teachers. Every setback brings a lesson, and every wrong turn leads to a clearer understanding of where you truly want to go. I’d say, 'Learn fast, adjust, and move forward—don’t get stuck trying to make everything perfect.'

Next, I’d emphasize the importance of resilience. When challenges hit, they can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re pouring everything into your business. But resilience isn’t about bulldozing through; it’s about learning how to pace yourself. Success doesn’t come from working nonstop—it comes from consistency, balance, and knowing when to take a break.

And then there are the wins. If I could go back, I’d tell myself to celebrate every milestone, big or small. In the early days, I was so focused on 'what’s next' that I rarely paused to appreciate the progress. Those moments of celebration are fuel. They give you the energy and motivation to keep going. Recognize the wins, acknowledge your growth, and remember that each success, no matter how minor it may seem, is a step toward something bigger.

Finally, I’d remind myself to build relationships and trust the process. It’s easy to think you have to do it all alone, but collaboration is a powerful asset. Seek out mentors, support others, and build a community. And most importantly, trust the journey. You may not always know how things will unfold, but stay connected to your purpose, stay true to your values, and keep moving forward.

Thanks for sharing your knowledge and expertise. Is there anything else you'd like to add?

Thank you for giving me the opportunity to share my journey and insights! If you’re looking to dive deeper into Pinterest marketing and want to experience real, lasting growth, I’d love to invite you to join the Pintastic® Growth Experience at pintasticgrowth.com/experience. This community is free to join and offers a wealth of resources tailored to help you maximize your visibility, connect with your audience, and ultimately drive more conversions on Pinterest.

As a member, you’ll gain access to proven strategies that are part of my signature Pintastic® Growth-to-Greatness framework. This experience is all about taking the guesswork out of Pinterest, giving you step-by-step guidance and support so you can focus on building your brand. And to kickstart your journey, I’m offering a free Pinterest audit to help you understand what’s working, what needs improvement, and how to position your Pinterest presence for optimal impact. You can get your free audit by visiting simplypintastic.com/free-pinterest-audit/.

The audit is designed to give you actionable insights into your current Pinterest strategy and identify growth opportunities so you can start seeing results sooner. Joining the Pintastic® Growth Experience is a fantastic first step, and I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Whether you're a Pinterest pro or just starting out, this community and audit are here to support your goals and help you tap into the incredible potential Pinterest has to offer.