Duct Tape Marketing

Businesses don't win by selling more features or even better experiences anymore. In this episode, Joe Pine explains why the real value today comes from selling outcomes and guiding customers toward meaningful transformation. We unpack the transformation economy, how it differs from the experience economy, and why charging for outcomes changes pricing, guarantees, and business models. You will learn how both B2B and B2C companies can productize transformation, align messaging with real results, and help customers become who they want to be. Today we discussed: 00:00 Why Transformation Matters Now 11:43 Productizing Transformation 14:00 Pricing and Outcome-Based Models 16:48 Messaging Around Who Customers Become 20:16 How to Start a Transformation Strategy 24:28 Connect With Joe Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

AI did not just disrupt consulting, it changed what it takes to survive. Steve Cunningham shares how AI nearly wiped out his business, forced a complete reinvention, and ultimately led him to become an AI native full stack consultant. The conversation explores why context, workflows, and AI ready deliverables now matter more than traditional expertise alone. If you are a consultant, agency owner, or service professional wondering how AI is reshaping your role, this episode makes the stakes clear and the path forward practical. Today we discussed: 00:00 How AI Wiped Out Steve's Business 03:54 What an AI-Native Consultant Really Is 08:11 Giving AI the Right Context 11:53 Choosing AI Platforms Without Lock-In 14:54 Deliverables for Humans and AI 17:37 Guardrails for Safe AI Work 20:22 Steve and SimpleConsultants Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Most goals do not fail because of a lack of motivation. They fail because people misunderstand the odds. Kyle Austin Young explains why goal setting breaks down, how hidden risks quietly derail progress, and how his probability hacking framework helps leaders and entrepreneurs intentionally improve their chances of success. The conversation explores decision making under uncertainty, resilience, and why thinking about what could go wrong is often the smartest path forward. If you want a more realistic, strategic way to achieve big goals, this episode reframes how success actually works. Today we discussed: 00:00 Why Goals Are About Odds, Not Motivation 03:22 Thinking Negative to Prevent Failure 04:06 Probability Hacking and the Success Diagram 07:39 How to Build a Success Diagram Step by Step 09:09 Why Averaging Odds Fails Your Goals 11:55 Failure, Repetition, and Multiple Attempts 15:38 Advantage, Persistence, and Playing the Odds 18:26 Edison, Experiments, and True Resilience 20:05 Why Reverse Engineering Success Is Risky 21:27 Where to Connect Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Marketing feels chaotic because most businesses are chasing tactics without a system to support them. In this episode, John Jantsch and Sara Nay explain why a marketing operating system brings clarity, accountability, and predictable growth. They walk through how strategy comes first, how campaigns turn strategy into action, and why systems create long-term business value. If marketing feels scattered or hard to measure, this conversation shows how to turn chaos into a repeatable system that actually works. Today we discussed: 00:00 Why Marketing Feels Chaotic in 2025 02:21 What a Marketing OS Is and Why It Matters 04:53 Strategy-First Marketing for Small Business 08:14 Turning Strategy Into Marketing Campaigns 09:25 SOPs and Workstream Engine for Marketing 12:54 How AI Fits Into Modern Marketing Systems 15:24 Scorecards, Metrics and Marketing Dashboards 17:57 Monthly Momentum Meetings for Marketing Teams 20:27 Quarterly Optimization for Better Results 22:33 Agency vs Fractional CMO Service Models 24:32 Book a Call Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Curiosity is not a soft skill. It is one of the strongest predictors of leadership performance and team success. In this episode, John Jantsch talks with leadership strategist and researcher Debra Clary about why curious leaders build stronger, smarter teams and how asking better questions drives engagement, trust, and results. They explore how curiosity can be learned, measured, and practiced, especially in high pressure leadership environments. You will learn how bold questions can reshape culture, unlock performance, and help leaders move from giving answers to developing people. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 01:51 Improv, Stand-Up, and the Book Journey 03:18 Curiosity as a Superpower and Its Decline 04:40 Data Linking Curiosity to Performance 06:09 From Having Answers to Coaching Teams 09:28 Curiosity Myths and Key Traits 10:57 Measuring and Training Curiosity 12:00 Bold Questions and Team Engagement 13:18 Case Study: Defining the Real Problem 16:26 When Curiosity Is Missing at Work 18:55 Curiosity Habits Leaders Can Use 20:28 Where to Connect Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Content is about to become unlimited, cheap, and automated and that changes everything about marketing strategy. John Jantsch sits down with Peter Benei of AI Ready CMO to explore how AI is reshaping marketing teams, why production is no longer the advantage it once was, and what skills marketers must develop to stay relevant. They discuss the evolving role of the CMO, the limits of AI tools, and why judgment, taste, and strategic thinking remain human responsibilities. This episode offers a clear, practical look at what AI really means for the future of marketing. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 01:33 AI vs. Past Tools 03:58 Content Hype Reality 07:17 Automation & Quality 10:38 Human Judgment Matters 12:41 Jobs & Skills Outlook 17:31 Future of the CMO Role 19:29 Tool Landscape Predictions 24:36 Take Action If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

You can't self-care your way out of a toxic workplace, and leadership consultant Amy Leneker explains why. In this episode, we unpack how workplace stress, toxic positivity, and broken trust quietly undermine teams, culture, and performance. Amy shares a practical framework leaders can use to identify stress, rebuild trust, and create healthier work environments without superficial fixes. If you lead a team and want real change, this conversation challenges everything you think you know about stress and joy at work. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 01:10 Meet Amy Leneker 01:56 Recovering Workaholic 03:45 Three-Step Stress Method 05:54 Team Stress Framework 08:42 Joy Strategy and Evolving Culture 13:04 HR's Role 14:25 Work-Life Harmony Part 1 16:40 Generational Differences 18:45 Work-Life Harmony Part 2 Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

John sits down with communication expert Carmine Gallo to break down how to capture attention without clickbait by using proven persuasion and storytelling principles. They explore the neuroscience of attention, why timeless story structure still works across platforms like TED Talks and TikTok, and how ethical hooks build trust instead of hype. The conversation also dives into using AI without losing authenticity, explaining why human meaning always outperforms optimized grammar. If you want to create content that stands out, earns trust, and keeps audiences listening, this episode delivers practical, science-backed insights. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 01:10 Meet Carmine Gallo 02:18 Audio Original Format 04:09 Contrast Power: JFK Quote vs AI Replacement Phrase 05:56 Evolution of Storytelling 08:31 Three-Act Structure 13:20 The Hook Explained 17:20 AI & Human Voice 20:43 Storytelling Insights Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

What should businesses focus on as marketing evolves in 2026? In this solo episode, John Jantsch breaks down 6 marketing trends that will shape 2026, from the growing importance of local SEO and customer retention to the rise of trust-based micro-influencers and authentic content. You'll learn why "real" is replacing viral, how mischief can become a marketing strategy, and why being genuinely helpful is the future of search. This episode offers practical guidance for small businesses and marketers looking to stay relevant, visible, and trusted in a rapidly changing landscape. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 01:09 Intro 01:58 Local Advantage 04:45 Real is the New Viral 07:26 Mischief Marketing 08:43 Retention is the New Acquisition 10:30 Trust Brokers and Micro-Influencers 12:11 Be the Answer – Helpful Search Content Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

John is joined by Lauren Esposito to explore why AI delivers the most value when treated as a digital teammate rather than just another tool. They unpack how businesses can build a true hybrid workforce by integrating digital workers alongside humans, reshaping roles, accountability, and leadership in the age of AI. You'll learn how managing AI like an employee unlocks better outcomes, trust, and long-term ROI, and why AI adoption can't live solely in IT. This conversation offers practical insight into the future of work, digital labor strategy, and what it takes to orchestrate AI for real business impact. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 01:10 Meet Lauren Esposito 02:19 The Hybrid Workforce 06:36 Organizational Shifts 10:21 Redefining Roles with AI 14:26 Trust in Digital Workers 17:20 Breaking Down Silos 20:49 Future Workforce Leadership Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

*This is a rerun of a previously released episode Geoff Woods is the #1 international bestselling author of The AI-Driven Leader: Harnessing AI to Make Faster Decisions and the founder of AI Leadership and the AI Driven Leadership Collective. As a former Chief Growth Officer of a global company, Geoff brings real-world expertise in using AI to transform how leaders think and make decisions. In this episode, he reveals how AI can serve as a powerful thought partner—enhancing strategic focus, overcoming operational overwhelm, and unlocking breakthrough solutions using his CRIT framework. Tune in to learn how the most effective leaders are leveraging AI to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving business landscape. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 01:10 Introducing Geoff Woods 01:23 How AI Enhances Leaders Strategic Thinking 03:13 AI as a Thought Partner 04:50 How AI Can Help with Operation Tasks 06:20 Focusing on the 20% 07:56 The C.R.I.T. Framework 13:10 Addressing the AI Culture Shift 16:20 How is AI Changing Decision Making 17:39 What's AI's Role in Leadership 19:26 How to Start Integrating AI Into Your Leadership Practices This episode is brought to you by Duct Tape Marketing. Free Resource for Business Owners: If you're feeling overwhelmed by marketing, don't miss our CEO Sara Nay's new 30-minute workshop: The Clarity Engine. You'll learn a smarter, more strategic approach and get a worksheet to map out your next steps for 2026. Join the workshop & grab your free worksheet - https://dtm.world/clarity Give yourself the gift of clarity in 2026!  

In The Science of Mindset and Sustainable Success, mindset coach and author Diana Pagano breaks down how neuroscience and neuroplasticity shape our beliefs, habits, and long-term success. She explains why sustainable success isn't about doing more, but about rewiring limiting beliefs, interrupting fear-driven patterns, and aligning your mindset with intentional action. This conversation explores how mindset shifts help entrepreneurs and leaders overcome self-doubt, burnout, and plateaus while creating lasting growth. If you're looking to understand the science behind mindset change and build success without sacrificing fulfillment, this episode offers practical insight and clarity. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 00:59 Meet Diana Pagano 01:32 Defining 'More' in Mindset 02:31 Rewiring Your Mind 04:45 Privilege & Reality Check 08:14 Fear & Belief Systems 13:11 Success Mindset Coaching 16:29 Client Success Stories 21:03 Universal Strategies Rate, Review, & Follow This episode is brought to you by Duct Tape Marketing. Free Resource for Business Owners: If you're feeling overwhelmed by marketing, don't miss our CEO Sara Nay's new 30-minute workshop: The Clarity Engine. You'll learn a smarter, more strategic approach and get a worksheet to map out your next steps for 2026. Join the workshop & grab your free worksheet - https://dtm.world/clarity Give yourself the gift of clarity in 2026!

Sara breaks down the 10 essential questions every small business should ask before hiring a marketing agency, consultant, or fractional CMO. From who owns your marketing assets to how results are measured, Sara shares hard-won lessons from 16+ years helping businesses avoid costly mistakes. Learn how to spot red flags, demand transparency, and build a partnership based on strategy—not secrecy. Perfect for anyone ready to own their marketing and stop getting trapped in bad contracts. Today we discussed: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:50 Why Marketing Is Hard 00:04:26 10 Questions Overview 00:05:14 Question 1: Asset Ownership 00:07:20 Question 2: Measuring Success 00:09:11 Question 3: Strategy Alignment 00:11:09 Question 4: Contract Terms 00:12:11 Question 6: Reporting Standards 00:12:23 Question 5: Team Interaction 00:13:04 Question 7: AI Integration 00:15:12 Question 8: Keep Your Team Involved 00:17:48 Question 10: What You'll Learn Rate, Review, & Follow This episode is brought to you by Duct Tape Marketing. Struggling with marketing chaos? Our CEO, Sara Nay, has created a free 30-minute workshop, The Clarity Engine, along with a practical worksheet to help you build a marketing system that actually scales. Ready to finish the year with a clear plan? Start the workshop & grab your free worksheet - https://dtm.world/clarity Want a second set of eyes on your strategy? Sara's offering a few free, year-end review sessions (limited capacity) Book your strategy call - https://dtm.world/yearend

John breaks down the 7 stages of a complete marketing operating system and why most businesses struggle without one. He explains how the marketing pyramid, business strategy, brand development, and customer experience all work together to create a repeatable, scalable system. You'll learn how to eliminate random tactics, integrate AI into your workflows, and build a structured approach that finally drives consistent results. If you've ever wondered how to build a marketing operating system for your business, this episode gives you the roadmap. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 01:09 The Marketing Operating System 02:00 Business Chaos and the Marketing Pyramid 04:30 Designing the Marketing Operating System 08:00 The Seven Stages 10:43 Implementation Phases and Next Steps Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

*This episode originally aired in August 2025 Michael Aaron Flicker, founder of XenoPsi Ventures and co-founder of the Consumer Behavior Lab with behavioral scientist Richard Shotton, joins John Jantsch to explore how psychology shapes the world's most successful brands. Drawing from their book Hacking the Human Mind, Michael shares insights into the hidden science behind consumer decisions and brand loyalty. Listeners will learn how to apply behavioral science to create more effective campaigns, craft memorable messages, and drive real business growth. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 01:03 Meet Michael Aaron Flicker 01:46 Hacking the Human Mind 02:47 Do Brands Know Psychology? 04:05 Challenging Marketing Myths 05:57 Behavioral Science Lab Work 07:43 Apple's iPod Memory Trick 10:41 Why 17 is Magic 12:09 Surprising Brand Psychology 13:37 The Peak-End Rule 16:23 Ethics of Mind Hacking 18:19 Getting Started Guide Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

John talks with Ashley Herd—founder of Manager Method—about why top performers often struggle when promoted into management and what organizations can do differently. Using real-world examples, Ashley breaks down how clear expectations, practical feedback, and better one-on-one conversations can transform team performance. She also shares her "career quilt" approach and a simple framework managers can use to make better decisions. If you want to build confident, effective leaders without burning people out, this conversation delivers the tools and long-tail strategies you need. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 00:33 Meet Ashley Herd 01:07 Accidental Managers Problem 02:52 The Manager Method 04:38 Training Gap Reality 05:50 Setting Clear Expectations 09:05 Career Quilt Concept 10:43 One-on-One Best Practices 13:08 Pause, Consider, Act 15:40 Coaching vs. Managing 16:53 Simple Management Tips 18:28 HR Perception Myths 19:57 Resources & Templates Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

With over two decades of experience helping small businesses thrive, John dives solo into this episode to explore how AI is revolutionizing the buyer's journey. He breaks down the stages of his signature "Marketing Hourglass" framework and shares how businesses must adapt their strategies in an AI-driven world. Tune in to learn how to future-proof your marketing by aligning with evolving customer behavior, embracing self-service tools, and doubling down on authenticity and trust. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introducing Christine Perkett 00:09 The evolved buyer journey 02:29 Reintroducing the Marketing Hourglass as a flexible customer journey mode 03:43 How AI interrupts and reshapes journey stages like know, like, and trust 04:55 Recommendation engines and the rise of self-service experiences 06:12 The need to rethink SEO: focus on questions, not keywords 06:50 Combining digital efficiency with emotional, human-centered marketing 08:33 The journey is already changing—are you adapting?   Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, we explore how small businesses can use AI to convert more leads while reclaiming precious time. John Jantsch talks with Rainmaker CEO Joe Gagnon about AI-native sales workflows, 24/7 phone agents, and why automation doesn't have to feel inauthentic. Together they break down how AI can improve inbound conversations, overcome objections, and deliver more predictable growth. Learn how AI tools that help small business owners save time can also create better customer experiences and streamline every step of the sales journey. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 00:33 Welcome Joe Gagnon 00:57 Reinventing Small Biz Sales 02:41 AI-Native Sales Platform 04:23 Pricing & Access 07:16 Support Challenges 08:34 Sales Meets Support 10:09 Personalization Power 13:26 Customer Use Cases 15:09 Ethics & Constitution 18:06 Getting Started 20:21 Future Outlook Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, we uncover how to magnetize the right clients by escaping the "obscurity tax" and building true market eminence. Guest David Newman breaks down the power of contrarian thinking, bold positioning, and sharing real expertise—not watered-down content. Learn why polarizing your message attracts perfect-fit clients while repelling the wrong ones, and how generosity, insight, and future-focused thinking fuel unstoppable growth. If you're ready to stand out in a noisy marketplace, this conversation gives you the long-tail strategies you need. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 01:33 The Obscurity Tax 04:47 Stakeholder Influence 05:42 Visibility in AI Era 08:29 Attracting Right Clients 11:34 Core Strategies Revealed 15:37 AI as Thought Partner 17:11 Finding Your Niche Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Choosing the right marketing agency can make or break your business — and in this episode, John Jantsch shares the 10 essential questions every business owner must ask before hiring a marketing partner. Using real-world examples and industry red flags, he breaks down how to protect your data, evaluate reporting, connect tactics to strategy, and spot agencies that overcharge while underdelivering. If you've ever worried about getting ripped off or want to make smarter marketing decisions, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence you need. Discover how to avoid costly mistakes and choose a partner that truly drives results. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 01:48 Who Owns Your Data? 03:16 Defining Success 04:08 Strategy Alignment 04:52 Exit Strategies 05:39 Daily Work Breakdown 06:20 Ask For A Sample Report 06:41 AI & Human Oversight 07:43 Collaboration Process 08:14 Strategy Before Execution 09:18 Knowledge Transfer Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

John Jantsch sits down with LinkedIn expert Lorenzo Johnson to break down the four pillars of social selling that drive real results. Lorenzo explains how to improve your LinkedIn SSI score, build trusted relationships, and create value-driven content that stands out in a sea of generic AI posts. You'll learn why video, carousel posts, and authentic engagement outperform automation—and how to optimize your professional brand for 2026. If you're looking for best practices for social selling on LinkedIn, this episode delivers a clear blueprint you can put into action today. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 00:33 Meet Lorenzo Johnson 01:10 LinkedIn in 2026 01:24 The New Landscape 03:47 AI's Impact on LinkedIn 04:53 Social Selling Index 08:11 Profile Optimization Tips 10:24 Long-Term Selling Strategy 12:46 Best Outreach Tools 16:24 Tool Compliance Rules 19:03 Measuring Your Success Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Sara breaks down the 10 essential questions every small business should ask before hiring a marketing agency, consultant, or fractional CMO. From who owns your marketing assets to how results are measured, Sara shares hard-won lessons from 16+ years helping businesses avoid costly mistakes. Learn how to spot red flags, demand transparency, and build a partnership based on strategy—not secrecy. Perfect for anyone ready to own their marketing and stop getting trapped in bad contracts. Today we discussed: 00:00:00 Introduction 00:02:50 Why Marketing Is Hard 00:04:26 10 Questions Overview 00:05:14 Question 1: Asset Ownership 00:07:20 Question 2: Measuring Success 00:09:11 Question 3: Strategy Alignment 00:11:09 Question 4: Contract Terms 00:12:11 Question 6: Reporting Standards 00:12:23 Question 5: Team Interaction 00:13:04 Question 7: AI Integration 00:15:12 Question 8: Keep Your Team Involved 00:17:48 Question 10: What You'll Learn Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

*This is a rerun of a previous DTM episode. Keith Lauver is a serial entrepreneur, seasoned marketing strategist, and founder of Atomic Elevator, the company behind Ella—an AI-powered marketing platform transforming how brands approach strategy and execution. He has launched six companies and raised over $34 million through product-driven growth. In this episode, Keith shares how High Definition Marketing and AI tools like Ella are redefining marketing for small businesses and agencies alike. Discover how to align your marketing strategy with execution, break through brand stagnation, and drive real business growth with smarter, not louder, tactics. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 00:41 What is High Definition Marketing? 01:59 How Has Marketing Strategy Changed? 08:17 ELLA and DTM Partnership 12:52 ELLA Elevates Your Marketing Team 16:46 How are AI Tools Evolving?   More About Keith Lauver:   Check out Keith Lauver's Website: https://www.atomicelevator.com Connect with Keith Lauver's on LinkedIn: https://⁠www.linkedin.com/in/keithdlauver/⁠   Rate, Review, & Follow   If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode.   Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!  

*This is a rerun of a previous DTM episode. Manick Bhan is the founder and CTO of Search Atlas, a cutting-edge SEO and content marketing platform powering over 20,000 websites and 5,000 agencies. A serial entrepreneur and respected thought leader in the SEO industry, Manick previously founded RankPay and has spent over a decade pushing the boundaries of search technology. In this episode, he joins John Jantsch to break down the future of SEO, the disruptive impact of AI and LLMs like ChatGPT, and how marketers can evolve beyond outdated strategies. Listeners will gain actionable insights into building high-converting content, mastering SEO automation, and future-proofing their digital marketing efforts. 00:00 Opening 01:03 Introducing Manick Bhan 01:32 Why Was Search Atlas Created? 03:53 Is SEO Dead? 06:12 Why is Conversion Higher From AI Search Than Google?:07:32 RIsk vs Opportunity with AI Search 09:12 Optimizing Content for Competitive Search 42 How Should Marketers Think about AI Today? 14:28 Quality vs Quanity 17:42 Rented vs Owned Spaces 20:09 Lessons Learned from a Founder Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

John Jantsch talks with Ernie Ross — branding strategist, founder of Ross Rethink, and creator of the Intangence Methodology. They explore how trust, storytelling, and human connection are redefining brand value in an age of AI and skepticism. Discover why authentic storytelling drives emotional connection, how meaning creates market worth, and what the future holds for purpose-driven brands built on trust. 00:00 Introduction 00:33 Meet Ernie Ross 01:10 What Is Intangence? 04:27 Trust as Brand Currency 07:40 AI Can't Replace This 10:56 Storytelling That Connects 13:07 Ethics of Emotion 14:32 Where to Start 16:49 Questioning Reality 18:35 Intangibles Drive Value Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Dr. Julia Garcia is a psychologist, speaker, and author of The Five Habits of Hope: Stories and Strategies to Help You Find Your Way. In this episode, she joins John Jantsch to explore how hope isn't just a feeling—it's a leadership strategy that drives resilience, innovation, and connection. Julia reveals how emotional habits like release, repurposing, and emotional risk-taking can transform workplace culture and empower teams to thrive. Discover how leading with hope can build stronger, more human organizations. 00:00 Start 00:33 Meet Julia Garcia 01:10 Hope as a Habit 02:32 Debunking Hope Myths 04:37 Owning Your Own Story 06:07 Reframing Your Identity 07:47 Fighting Loneliness Together 10:28 Practicing Hope Daily 11:54 Hope in Business Culture 15:06 The Release Exercise 18:17 Realistic vs Unrealistic Hope 20:09 Connect with Julia Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Mark Kingsley is a renowned brand strategist, consultant, and author of Brands in the Age of AI. In this episode, he joins John Jantsch to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the foundation of branding—from trust and differentiation to the very nature of human connection. Kingsley challenges marketers to move beyond chasing algorithms and instead use AI as a tool to humanize brands, build authentic emotional connections, and create more meaningful experiences in a rapidly changing digital world. 00:00:00 Introduction 00:00:33 Meet Mark Kingsley 00:01:14 AI vs. Human Branding 00:04:45 Trust in the AI Era 00:08:48 Storytelling That Works 00:14:04 Brand OS Explained 00:16:46 AI's Hidden Limits 00:18:16 Small Business AI Strategy Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

John breaks down why your Google Business Profile is now the most powerful tool for local SEO. He explains how Google's shift toward AI-driven search and zero-click results means your profile has become your new “mini website.” John shares actionable steps to boost visibility, build trust, and turn your Google presence into a steady stream of local leads. Perfect for small business owners ready to thrive in the AI era. 00:00 Introduction 00:32 Rethinking Publishing on Rented Land 02:06 Google Business Profile is Prime Real Estate 06:30 E-E-A-T, Structured Data, and Staying Active 11:56 What to Post on Your GBP Every Week 14:45 Optimizing for AI 18:11 4 Week Audit and Action Plan Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Eva Gutierrez is the founder of ThinkWithAI.com and a leading educator on practical AI adoption for business leaders. With a background in behavioral science and communication, she helps organizations integrate AI into decision-making, recruiting, and daily workflows. In this episode, Eva and John explore how to build your AI team task by task, reframing AI as a hired teammate rather than a tool. Learn how to create a hybrid intelligence system that enhances productivity and empowers human potential. 00:00 Introduction 00:33 Meet Eva Gutierrez 01:21 Think Task-by-Task AI 06:01 AI Changes Your Org Chart 10:00 Hybrid Intelligence Explained 18:49 Let AI Recruit AI 22:16 Connect with Eva Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Bestselling author and leadership expert Robert Glazer, founder of Acceleration Partners and creator of the popular Friday Forward newsletter, joins John Jantsch to discuss his latest book, The Compass Within: A Story About the Values That Guide Us. In this episode, Robert shares a practical framework for identifying and living your true core values—turning them from vague ideals into actionable principles. Listeners will learn how to align their life, leadership, and decisions around authentic, measurable values that drive real growth. 00:00 Introduction 00:53 Reintroducing Robert Glazer 01:53 Personal vs Company Values 03:08 Why Write a Parable? 05:18 Making Values Actionable 08:15 Where Values Come From 12:01 Values and Leadership 15:41 Company Alignment & Core Values 18:45 Values in Business: Case Studies 22:40 Where to Find the Book Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Don Yaeger is a New York Times bestselling author, leadership expert, and sought-after speaker known for distilling the habits of world-class performers. In this episode, Don joins John Jantsch to discuss The Science of Momentum and reveal how leaders can intentionally create and sustain it. Drawing from insights across sports, business, and the military, Don shares a proven framework for transforming small moments into lasting success. Listeners will learn how to engineer momentum, build belief, and ignite winning team cultures. 00:00 Introduction 00:32 Meet Don Yaeger 01:10 Sports Clichés Welcome 01:27 Super Bowl Sparked This Book 02:56 Engineering Momentum 07:23 Momentum Killers 12:04 Measuring Momentum 16:16 Research Across Industries 17:57 Weekly Truth-Telling Habit Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Todd Sattersten, publishing veteran and CEO of Bard Press, joins John Jantsch to discuss his latest project, 100 Books for Work and Life. Todd has helped launch bestsellers like The One Thing and The Gift of Struggle, and brings decades of insight into what makes a book truly transformative. In this episode, he shares how the right book at the right time can shape careers, improve leadership, and create lasting success in both business and life. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 00:53 Meet Todd Satterson 01:35 How Todd Pick Books 03:42 Most Impactful Books 08:15 Todd's Research Process 10:28 Hidden Book Gems 12:04 Timeless Business Classics 13:52 Old Books, New Relevance 15:29 Reading with Purpose 19:16 Starting Fresh & Relationships 20:29 Summaries vs. Full Books 21:39 Top 3 for Young Entrepreneurs Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

John breaks down why SEO is no longer just about rankings—it's about visibility. In this solo episode, he shares the seven key steps of a complete visibility audit, from showing up in AI search and local map packs to building authority through media mentions and fresh reviews. You'll learn how to strengthen trust, optimize content for AI, and ensure your calls to action convert visitors into customers. 00:00 Start 01:00 SEO in 2025 01:27 Rankings Are Dead 02:17 The Visibility Audit 02:47 Step 1: AI Overview Presence 03:30 Step 2: Local Pack Wins 04:13 Step 3: Review Strategy 05:04 Step 4: Media Mentions Matter 06:12 Step 5: Master EAT Principles 07:06 Step 6: AI-Ready Content 08:44 Step 7: CTAs That Convert Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Anthony Blatner, founder of Speedwork Social and host of LinkedIn Ads Radio, joins John Jantsch to uncover why so many businesses struggle with LinkedIn advertising. With years of experience helping B2B companies—from SaaS startups to Fortune 500s—Anthony explains the pitfalls of default campaign settings, the power of Thought Leader ads, and how to properly target the right professionals. Listeners will learn how to cut wasted spend, boost ROI, and finally make LinkedIn ads work. 00:00 Start 00:33 Meet Anthony Blatner 01:09 Why LinkedIn Ads Work 02:20 Best Industries for LinkedIn 03:20 Campaign Structure Secrets 06:04 Thought Leader Ads 08:26 Targeting Mistakes to Avoid 11:29 Budgeting for LinkedIn ROI 14:32 Retargeting & Lead Capture 16:14 Creative Best Practices 18:04 LinkedIn Culture Shift 18:31 AI Impact on LinkedIn Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Todd Sawicki, founder and CEO of Gumshoe AI, joins John Jantsch to explore how artificial intelligence is transforming the future of search and marketing. With decades of experience in digital media, startups, and customer acquisition, Todd shares insights into the rise of AI-driven discovery and why marketers must adapt beyond traditional SEO. Discover how AI search is reshaping buyer behavior, driving higher conversions, and rewarding high-quality content like never before. 00:00 Introduction 00:53 Meet Todd Sawicki 01:58 AI Search Revolution 03:47 How AI Changes Search 05:49 AI Boosts Conversions 07:22 SEO to Product Marketing 08:18 Training AI Like Salespeople 09:47 Quality Content Wins 13:01 Future of AI Conversions 15:50 Birth of Gumshoe AI 17:01 What AI Says About You 18:18 AI Customer Personas 19:38 AI Competitive Edge 20:41 High-Intent Search Focus 22:58 How Gumshoe Works 25:20 Competitor Analysis Tools 26:38 Gumshoe for Marketers Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Globally recognized leadership and customer experience expert Neen James joins John Jantsch to explore the power of creating exceptional experiences in business. As a keynote speaker and author of Exceptional Experiences: Five Luxury Levers to Elevate Every Aspect of Your Business, Neen shares how attention, anticipation, personalization, generosity, and gratitude can transform ordinary interactions into extraordinary results. Listeners will learn practical strategies to stand out, build loyalty, and make every client feel valued. 00:00:00 Start 00:00:53 Meet Neen James 00:01:45 What Is Luxury? 00:03:42 Luxury as a Feeling 00:05:15 Experience Elevation Model 00:06:45 Luxury Lever: Attention 00:09:22 Luxury Lever: Anticipation 00:13:11 Experience Audits 00:14:58 Luxury as Ease 00:16:06 Engaging Five Senses 00:17:50 Human vs. Automation 00:19:56 Standing Out Strategy Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

In this solo episode, John unpacks why traditional SEO is no longer enough and how businesses must shift toward search visibility in the age of AI. He explores the impact of zero click searches, E-E-A-T, and AI overviews, and shares actionable strategies to stay visible across Google and beyond. 00:00 Opening 00:58 Evolution of Search Engine Optimization 03:01 The Current State of Search 03:41 Focus on Search Visibility Instead of Rank 06:13 How to Demonstrate EEAT 09:04 Audit Your Content Gaps 10:07 Help Pages 11:46 FAQ Pages and Trust Elements 13:03 Refreshing Your Content 13:41 Utilize Your Google Business Page 14:35 Find Out How AI Is Sourcing Information 15:42 Common Mistakes Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Dr. Sabrina Starling, founder of Tap the Potential and host of the Profit by Design Podcast, is known for helping entrepreneurs create profitable, sustainable businesses that thrive without constant owner involvement. In this conversation, she shares powerful insights on succession planning, the “$10K Hour” framework, and why mindset is the real key to growth. She also opens up about her personal journey of resilience and how it reshaped her approach to legacy and leadership. Listeners will gain practical strategies to delegate effectively, build systems that last, and free themselves to focus on what truly matters. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 00:52 Meet Sabrina Starling 01:30 Mindset = Growth 02:43 Letting Go for Joy 05:31 Planning Your Legacy 09:02 Family & Team Legacy 10:49 Legal Succession Basics 13:09 Running Without You 13:40 Grief & New Perspective 15:22 Transition Planning 18:19 Take Time Away 19:09 The $10K Hour Activities Get a 30-day free trial today at morningmate.com Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Amy Rosenberg, seasoned PR strategist, agency founder, and author of A Practical Guide to Public Relations for Businesses, Nonprofits and PR Leaders, joins John Jantsch to unpack the evolving role of PR. She explains why thought leadership is now the cornerstone of visibility, how PR fuels SEO and even AI search, and why businesses need to be more practical in their approach. Listeners will gain clear strategies for building credibility, boosting online authority, and making PR work smarter in today's digital landscape. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 00:52 Meet Amy Rosenberg 01:22 PR Myths Busted 02:49 AI Changes in Modern PR 04:20 PR's Digital Evolution 05:53 PR Meets SEO 07:44 Thought Leadership Matters 09:42 Starting Your Thought Leadership 11:20 Podcasts for PR Power 13:15 Social Media PR Strategy 15:10 Proving PR ROI 17:24 Getting Started Tips Get a 30-day free trial today at morningmate.com Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Former national TV news anchor and founder of Rylan Media, Lynn Smith, joins John Jantsch to share lessons from her new book Just Keep Going. Drawing from career pivots, setbacks, and reinvention, Lynn reveals how resilience can be cultivated in children and adults alike. From overcoming fear to embracing courage, she explains why building resilience early creates stronger leaders later in life. Tune in to discover how to keep moving forward—no matter your age or stage. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 00:51 Meet Lynn Smith 01:27 Why She Wrote This Book 02:51 The Core Message 04:24 Who This Book Helps 05:48 Writing for Kids is Hard 07:07 Pictures Tell Stories Too 08:59 Teaching Kids Resilience 11:59 Her Career Pivot Story 13:24 The Role of Self-Awareness in Resilience 14:51 Modeling Strength for Kids 17:18 Teaching Resilience Tools 19:07 What's Next? 19:52 Keep Going Moments Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

*This is a re-release of a previous DTM episode. John dives deep into the evolving landscape of SEO in this solo episode. He breaks down what today's marketers need to know about zero-click searches, AI content, Google Search Console, and how to build search strategies that actually drive conversions. Whether you're a local business owner or a digital agency, this episode delivers a fresh SEO playbook packed with actionable insights to boost visibility, authority, and high-intent traffic. Don't miss this essential update on what really works in SEO today.   Today we discussed:   [00:00] Opening [00:09] Introduction [01:52] Search Presence and Visibility [04:10] Embracing AI for Content [05:59] Local Search Isn't Going Anywhere [08:29] Prioritize Intent Based SEO [11:06] Link Building [13:58] Long Tail Queries   Rate, Review, & Follow   If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode.   Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!  

With over two decades of experience helping small businesses thrive, John dives solo into this episode to explore how AI is revolutionizing the buyer's journey. He breaks down the stages of his signature “Marketing Hourglass” framework and shares how businesses must adapt their strategies in an AI-driven world. Tune in to learn how to future-proof your marketing by aligning with evolving customer behavior, embracing self-service tools, and doubling down on authenticity and trust. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introducing Christine Perkett 00:09 The evolved buyer journey 02:29 Reintroducing the Marketing Hourglass as a flexible customer journey mode 03:43 How AI interrupts and reshapes journey stages like know, like, and trust 04:55 Recommendation engines and the rise of self-service experiences 06:12 The need to rethink SEO: focus on questions, not keywords 06:50 Combining digital efficiency with emotional, human-centered marketing 08:33 The journey is already changing—are you adapting?   Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Michael Aaron Flicker, founder of XenoPsi Ventures and co-founder of the Consumer Behavior Lab with behavioral scientist Richard Shotton, joins John Jantsch to explore how psychology shapes the world's most successful brands. Drawing from their book Hacking the Human Mind, Michael shares insights into the hidden science behind consumer decisions and brand loyalty. Listeners will learn how to apply behavioral science to create more effective campaigns, craft memorable messages, and drive real business growth. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 01:03 Meet Michael Aaron Flicker 01:46 Hacking the Human Mind 02:47 Do Brands Know Psychology? 04:05 Challenging Marketing Myths 05:57 Behavioral Science Lab Work 07:43 Apple's iPod Memory Trick 10:41 Why 17 is Magic 12:09 Surprising Brand Psychology 13:37 The Peak-End Rule 16:23 Ethics of Mind Hacking 18:19 Getting Started Guide Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Brent Weaver, CEO of E2M Solutions, joins John Jantsch to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping the agency landscape. As the leader of a top white-label provider of WordPress, SEO, content, and AI solutions, Brent shares insights on how agencies can adapt to evolving client expectations, leverage AI tools, and stay competitive in a rapidly shifting market. Listeners will gain valuable strategies for thriving in the post-AI era of marketing. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 01:03 Meet Brent Weaver 01:47 AI Changes Everything 03:06 Embracing AI for Agencies 04:25 AI Adoption Challenges 07:33 AI Hype vs. Reality 08:32 SEO in the AI Era 11:59 Local SEO Still Matters 12:51 Post-AI Competition 14:13 Humans vs. Machines 15:23 AI-Powered Customer Experience 17:20 Brent's AI Journey 18:41 From Doer to Strategist Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Jim Murphy is a high-performance coach, author, and creator of the Inner Excellence Methodology. He's coached Olympians, world-class athletes, and business leaders to achieve breakthrough results by mastering their inner game. In this episode, Jim shares how his book Inner Excellence went viral after NFL star AJ Brown was seen reading it mid-game, and he unpacks the mindset shifts that lead to fearless performance, deeper fulfillment, and extraordinary results. Listeners will gain powerful insights into letting go of outcomes, embracing vulnerability, and training the mind for both peak performance and a meaningful life. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 01:05 Introducing Jim Murphy 01:48 AJ Brown's Impact on the Book 03:39 Book's Viral Success & Printing Issues 05:03 Jim Murphy's Personal Journey 06:41 Core Principles: Identity & Letting Go 08:27 Redefining Fear & Success 10:47 Business Leadership Applications 12:10 Daily Goals & Mindset Training 13:27 Spiritual Elements in Coaching 14:26 Vulnerability & Humility Breakthroughs 15:59 Society vs Inner Excellence 17:16 From Doing to Being Mindset 18:13 Handling Increased Exposure Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Michael Tchong, innovation expert and founder of UberTrends, joins John Jantsch to reveal how seismic shifts in consumer behavior and technology are reshaping marketing. Recognized by the Daily Telegraph as America's most influential trend spotter, Michael has helped brands like Apple, American Express, and Mercedes-Benz anticipate the future. In this episode, he breaks down the difference between fads and lasting Uber Trends, explores the rise of AI and transparency, and shares how businesses can turn emerging shifts into real opportunities. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 01:03 Meet Michael Tchong 02:04 What Are Uber Trends? 03:08 Uber Trends in Action 03:56 Breaking Down Uber Trends 04:31 Time Compression Explained 05:27 My Trend-Watching Journey 07:27 Trends vs. Fads 09:22 Using Trends for Business 11:26 Digital Marketing & AI Boom 14:35 Customer Experience Wins 15:47 The Transparency Revolution 20:24 How to Spot Trends 22:27 Critical Data Analysis Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Victoria Downing, president of Remodeler's Advantage, has been leading top-performing peer groups for over three decades, helping business owners across North America achieve greater profits, stronger leadership, and better work-life balance. In this episode, she reveals how the structure, accountability, and shared wisdom of peer groups can cut your growth timeline in half. From managing group dynamics to fostering a culture of investment in teams, Victoria shares proven strategies any entrepreneur can apply to thrive. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 00:53 Introducing Victoria Downing 01:34 Remodelers Advantage Vision 02:58 Peer Groups as the Core Tool 04:06 Peer Group Structure & Impact 05:33 Adding Tactical Roles 07:23 Challenges for Remodelers 09:17 Peer Accountability & Transparency 11:54 Tech & Innovation 13:25 Group Dynamics & Placement 16:33 Success Stories 18:26 Other Peer Group Models 19:22 Industry Trends & Future Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Sara Nay is the CEO of Duct Tape Marketing and author of Unchained: Breaking Free from Broken Marketing Models. With over 15 years of experience helping small businesses grow, Sara returns to discuss the powerful concept of owning your marketing strategy. In this episode, she unpacks the shift away from outdated agency models toward building lean, AI-enabled systems and internal capabilities. Learn how to take control, simplify your marketing, and build lasting assets that fuel growth. Today we discussed: 00:00 Introduction 00:52 Introducing Sara Nay 03:30 Costs and Risks of Outsourcing Marketing 06:31 Simplifying Marketing Through Focus and Strategy 08:29 Importance of Strategy Over Tactics 10:39 Evolving Marketing Roles: From Doers to Orchestrators 14:37 Adapting to AI: Career Mindset and Skill Development 16:34 Marketing Execution as an Asset: Owning vs Renting 19:27 The Role and Evolution of the Fractional CMO Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Rhea Allen is the President and CEO of Pepper Shock Media, host of The Marketing Expedition Podcast, and a branding expert who helps businesses build unforgettable brands from the inside out. In this episode, she dives deep into the connection between culture and branding — and why your internal team is the foundation of how the world sees your business. Discover practical strategies for aligning HR and marketing, fostering employee buy-in, and using storytelling to shape a culture that truly represents your brand. Today we discussed: 00:00:00 Start 00:00:52 Introducing Rhea Allen 00:01:39 Culture vs. Brand 00:02:45 Hiring for Culture Fit 00:03:46 Culture & Brand Camp 00:05:27 Team Buy-In Through Values 00:06:29 Storytelling in Culture 00:07:47 Storytelling in Marketing 00:08:31 Rise of Authentic Stories 00:10:28 Authenticity vs. AI 00:13:19 Fun & Engagement in Culture 00:18:21 Culture ROI: Retention & Happiness 00:19:52 Final Thoughts 00:21:36 Closing & Contact Info Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Laura Ries is a globally recognized branding strategist, bestselling author, and president of Ries & Ries—the firm she leads alongside her father, legendary positioning pioneer Al Ries. In this episode, she unveils the powerful concept behind her latest book, The Strategic Enemy, and explains why great brands don't just stand for something—they stand against something. Discover how identifying a strategic enemy can give your brand clarity, focus, and unstoppable energy. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 00:52 Introducing Laura Ries 03:04 Defining a Strategic Enemy vs Competitor 03:37 Examples of Strategic Enemies in Branding 05:02 Understanding the Enemy as a Problem or Alternative 06:11 The Importance of Finding and Focusing on Your Enemy 06:52 Southwest Airlines: A Case Study in Focus and Enemy Positioning 08:08 Narrowing Focus as the First Step in Positioning 09:01 Category Importance and Brand Examples 12:46 Framework for Building a Brand and Finding Your Enemy 15:52 Entrepreneurial Success Stories: Airbnb and Others 18:33 Innovative New Brands and Category Ownership 20:40 Risks and Realities of Creating a Strategic Enemy Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!

Sara Nay is the CEO of Duct Tape Marketing and a pioneer in strategy-first marketing for small businesses. With over 15 years of experience in roles from intern to fractional CMO, she now leads the charge in redefining what it means to run a successful, modern agency. In this episode, Sara unpacks her new book Unchained, which introduces the groundbreaking “anti-agency” model—a practical, AI-enabled approach that empowers business owners to stop renting their marketing and start owning it. Listeners will walk away with actionable insights on building lean, AI-enhanced marketing teams and why leadership—not just execution—is the future of scalable growth. Today we discussed: 00:00 Start 00:43 Introducing Sara Nay 01:37 Identifying Problems with the Traditional Agency Model 03:30 The Anti-Agency Model and AI's Impact on Marketing 05:22 Timeless Marketing Principles in the Age of AI 07:23 Challenges and Dangers of AI Adoption in Small Business Marketing 09:47 The Fractional CMO Plus Model for Small Businesses 14:45 Agency Mindset Shift to Stay Relevant in the AI Era 16:36 Practical Steps for Small Businesses to Take Ownership of Marketing 18:22 How Small Businesses Should Approach AI Integration 20:33 Closing and Resources Rate, Review, & Follow If you liked this episode, please rate and review the show. Let us know what you loved most about the episode. Struggling with strategy? Unlock your free AI-powered prompts now and start building a winning strategy today!