Are You Talking to the Right Audience? Here’s How to Tell


Welcome to The Side Business Momentum Newsletter!

For women who’ve already started their side business—and want to build serious momentum.

Not on the list?Join here!


Hey Girl, Welcome Back!

Let me tell you—this was a lesson I had to learn the hard way.

For the longest time, I was trying to help everyone.

I was casting this giant net, hoping somebody—anybody—would bite.

You know what finally showed me I was heading in the right direction?

I started losing subscribers.

Sounds backwards, right?

You’d think I’d be panicking, watching those numbers drop—but weirdly, it felt like progress.

Like cleaning out a junk drawer: messy at first, but kind of satisfying.

But the truth?

When you get crystal clear about who you’re serving and what you stand for, some people will peace out—and that’s exactly what you want.

Here’s the difference:

  • If you’re losing people because you’re getting more focused—that’s growth.
  • If you’re losing people because your message just isn’t clicking—that’s a sign it’s time to tweak a few things.

Today, we’re digging into how to tell the difference—and how to start connecting with your real audience, the ones who actually need what you do.


TL;DR

Momentum slows when your message misses the right people.

Losing a few subscribers along the way is part of getting sharper—but if engagement keeps dropping, it’s time to check in and realign.


What's Worth Your Time Right Now

If you’re ready to fine-tune who you’re speaking to, these are worth a look:


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You need support that actually fits your life.

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This step-by-step system is made for busy women who want to grow their side business without burning out.

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Deep Dive: Are You Talking to the Right Audience?

If it feels like you’re working hard but still not seeing the momentum you want,

there’s a good chance it’s not about your effort—it’s about your audience.

The truth is: If you’re not talking to the right people, no strategy, no post, no fancy funnel is going to hit the way you want it to.

And honestly?

Girl, I swore up and down I knew who I was helping. I was convinced.

Until things got quiet—like “you just posted and heard crickets” quiet.

If any of that feels familiar, you’re in exactly the right place.

Here’s how to do a quick self-check—and make sure you’re really connecting with the people you’re meant to serve.


Start Here: Quick Gut Check

Ask yourself:

  • Are my posts and emails getting real responses—or just that one polite “like” from Aunt Cheryl?

  • Are the people reaching out a match for who I want to serve?

  • Do I feel excited about the conversations happening—or a little disconnected?

  • Are my offers landing with the right people—or are they getting overlooked?

If you’re feeling “off” in more than one of these areas, it’s a sign it’s time to get even clearer.


How to Shift and Realign

  • Check out your most loyal followers, buyers, or that one person who hearts everything. What do they all have in common? What’s keeping them up at night (besides TikTok)?

  • 2. Give your ideal client a name, a backstory, and a few pain points. Think: “Burnt-Out Brenda”—she dreams big but has 37 tabs open, a half-finished Canva graphic, and a goal she hasn’t touched in three weeks.

  • Post something new. Ask a question. Throw up a poll. Then sit back like a social scientist and see what actually makes people care.

  • Forget the follower count flex. If it’s not leading to clicks, conversations, or cash—it’s just digital clutter.

  • Skip the guru voice. Speak like a human. Use their words, share real stories, and make space for messy, honest conversation.

What Happens When You Get It Right?

  • You’ll start seeing replies, comments, and DMs from people who get you and what you’re about.

  • Your offers will feel like a no-brainer for the right people.

  • No more chasing after folks who were never a fit in the first place.

  • You’ll feel the difference—not just in your numbers, but in your energy and excitement too.

Let’s Keep the Momentum Going

Here’s your move for this week:

Take 10 minutes to write down the top three struggles your real audience is facing.

Then, create one post or email that speaks directly to just one of those struggles.

Watch what happens (spoiler: it’s usually not crickets this time).

  • Are you getting more replies or DMs?
  • Are your open rates or likes going up?
  • Are you feeling more energized by the conversations?

And if you want a little boost—I can even help you brainstorm that post or email.

Just hit reply and let’s do it.

Quick Check-In

Before you head out, could you take a few seconds to answer this one-click poll?

Your feedback helps me know what’s clicking for you and what you want more of.

I’m building this space with you in mind—and your answers help me keep these editions real, relevant, and super helpful.

Yours truly,

Kristina Portella, Business Strategist

Founder of Side Business Momentum

Because once you have momentum, everything changes.

113 Cherry St #92768, Seattle, WA 98104-2205
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From Messy Middle to Momentum: Side Business Clarity for Women

Your go-to Friday email for women in the messy middle of their side business. Get clear, practical tips to simplify your messaging, refine your offer, and confidently attract clients to build momentum and grow.

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