Podcasts about small business marketing

Today on the Community podcast, Kristina is joined by Britt Holmes, founder of Merit Media and paid ads expert, to break down how small business owners can use paid ads to create more consistent leads, increase visibility, and grow their business.Britt shares what business owners need to know before investing in Google Ads, Meta Ads, or LinkedIn Ads, and why a strong ad strategy is less about spending more and more about spending strategically.Tune in to hear:When your business is actually ready to start running paid ads.How to choose between Google Ads, Meta Ads, and LinkedIn Ads.The biggest mistakes business owners make when trying to DIY their ads.Why tracking and actively managing your ads are essential for better results.How paid ads can help reduce the feast-and-famine cycle in business.Why your website, messaging, and social media need to work together with your ad strategy.Britt also shares why you don't need a massive budget to get started, why slower seasons can actually be a smart time to advertise, and why boosting an Instagram post is very different from creating a strategic paid ads campaign.If paid ads have always felt overwhelming, this episode will help make small business advertising feel more accessible and give you a clearer understanding of how paid ads can support long-term business growth. Tune in now to learn how to approach your ad strategy with more confidence!Connect with Britt Holmes:WebsiteFollow Merit Media on InstagramFollow Britt on InstagramLinkedInMentioned in this Episode:Take our What's Your Social Media Personality Quiz: https://www.thesocialsnippet.com/quizSend me a text!PodMatchPodMatch Automatically Matches Ideal Podcast Guests and Hosts For InterviewsSupport the showFor Your Information:• Host your podcast on Buzzsprout!•Join The High Vibe Women Online Community!• Join our favourite scheduling platform Later• FLODESK Affiliate Code | 25% off your first year!• Connect with Kristina  Don't forget to come say hi to us on Instagram @thesocialsnippet, join the Weekly Snippet or follow us on any social media platform! Website . Instagram . Facebook . Linkedin

Send us Fan MailIf your SEO strategy still lives only on Google, you're missing where your clients are actually searching. Georgie Kemp, who leads organic search at Veed, joins me to break down why traditional SEO isn't dying (the data says search is actually growing) and how AI search is opening up a whole new playing field for small businesses and service providers.In this episode we cover:Why heavy Google search actually increased even as AI search explodedWhether you still need SEO fundamentals in the age of ChatGPT and AI overviewsWhat "multi-surface optimization" means and how to do it without a huge teamWhy video is the most underestimated part of your marketing strategyHow to turn one 60 to 90 second video into five pieces of contentWhy you need to ask a second clarifying question when clients tell you how they found youA simple, free test and learn approach to AI search you can start this weekGrab Georgie's free guide on optimizing video for AI search plus Veed's Ultimate Guide to Video Marketing reportALL LINKED MENTIONEDSupport the showWanna learn Pinterest with an expert there to help for only $37?  Pinterest Visibility Sprint is a 2-hour sprint with me live to optimize your Pinterest and create a marketing workflow Pinterest Visibility Sprint Here are some free things I've got coming up:Want your account audited? FREE Pinterest Audits LIVE on YouTube. Free Pinterest Masterclass

Why aren't you getting enough clients?If you're posting consistently, showing up, talking about your business, creating content, networking, and investing in marketing but still wondering where the clients are, this episode is for you.Because sometimes the problem isn't that you need more marketing.The problem is that your message isn't clear enough for the right people to recognize that you're the answer to the problem they're trying to solve.In this episode, Tracey Watts Cirino breaks down the messaging clarity problems she sees so many business owners struggling with and, honestly, the same kind of clarity work she continually evaluates in her own businesses.You'll discover:How to tell whether your message may be getting in the way of your marketingWhy people can like your content without understanding how to work with youThe difference between being specific and niching yourself into a boxWhy constantly changing your offer may actually be a messaging problemHow unclear messaging makes content, websites, sales conversations, and offers harderThe five questions every business owner should be able to answer clearlyWhy clarity isn't about having the perfect message; it's about making the right problem easier to recognizeHow a clearer message can help the right clients understand that you're the person they've been looking forIf you've been asking yourself, “Why am I not getting enough clients?”, don't automatically assume you need another marketing strategy.Start with the message underneath everything you're already doing.And if you know you need more clarity but aren't sure where to begin, check out the Messaging Clarity Starter Kit Tracey's practical starting point for turning what you know into a clear, usable business message.The Messaging Clarity Starter Kit™ is coming soon. I'm putting the finishing touches on it now, and I'll share the link here as soon as it's ready.Send us Fan MailTraceyWattsCirino.comTurn your Voice into Cash

Send us Fan MailIn-N-Out took 80 years to become a legend. Raising Cane's did it in 36 — with worse chicken and a better marketing team. Two founders sat down with Josh at the Book & Bourbon Club fly-in to debate what actually wins in 2026: the slow, silent build or the personal-brand turbocharge.Guests: Dennis Leis (investor, MetPro, LRT, Whole Body Fitness) and Trace Miller (founder/CEO of Konala — high-protein drive-thru restaurants, konalafranchise.com).Three debates, no filler:The personal branding debate — can you still grow a massive business silently? The In-N-Out vs. Raising Cane's case study, the "sellout" question every founder wrestles with, and why your best customer is literally dying every day.The AI debate — Dennis is all-in, Trace is skeptical, and Josh is in the middle. China just passed a law that you can't lay someone off and replace them with AI. Salesforce is cutting tens of thousands. Only 2% of the world is actually using it. What "ethical capitalism" looks like when the tokens cost more than the labor.The hiring debate — Dennis hires for his weaknesses and openly admits he has zero desire to be a CEO. Trace wants to grow into his weaknesses, Gymshark-style. Two founders, two very different answers to the oldest question in business.Plus Dennis unveils the AI-powered talent-matching platform he's building in beta — outbound recruiting for cultural fit instead of skills-first hiring.━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━Follow Dennis Leis: Instagram @dennis.leisFollow Trace Miller & Konala: konalafranchise.comBook & Bourbon Club: joshkosnick.com━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━Books mentioned:• Raving Fans — Ken Blanchard• Unreasonable Hospitality — Will Guidara• Good to Great — Jim Collins• Blue-Collar Cash — Ken Rusk━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━━Follow Josh Kosnick:Website — joshkosnick.comInstagram — @joshkosnickLinkedIn — linkedin.com/in/joshkosnickSubscribe for weekly conversations on leadership, faith, and building a life worth living.#SpartanLeadership #JoshKosnick #DennisLeis #TraceMiller #Konala #PersonalBranding #AIinBusiness #EthicalCapitalism #FounderPodcast #HiringStrategyCONNECT WITH ME HERE:FacebookInstagramLinkedInTwitterTikTokYouTubeSUBSCRIBE TO THE PODCAST HERE:Apple PodcastsSpotifyYouTube

Are you trying to help your small business be more visible online so it can grow? Let me walk you through how small business SEO can help you grow. If you want to increase your online presence, grow your visibility, leads, and customers, this will help. Listen in today and find out.  Support the showRegister now for the free SEO class - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/registration-seo-class  My free resources are here- https://www.etchedmarketing.com/freebies  Want to work with me 1:1? https://www.etchedmarketing.com/marketing-consulting   Join me in Simple SEO Content -https://www.etchedmarketing.com/yes Join Simple Podcast SEO and learn how to grow your show quickly and easily in the self-study podcast SEO program. - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/enroll My favorite marketing tools (affiliate links) Podcast recording and editing - DescriptPodcast hosting - BuzzsproutEmail Marketing - Active CampaignMarketing Website Analytics - Clicky SEO Tool - Ubersuggest     Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast? Ask it here -  https://forms.gle/Fbrqpmss6gxUnaMj7

Send us Fan MailAre you charging for your time instead of your expertise?Many entrepreneurs fall into the trap of hourly pricing because it feels like the obvious place to start. But as your skills grow, charging by the hour can actually hold your business back, leading to burnout, resentment, and an income ceiling.In this episode of Imperfect Marketing, Kendra Corman sits down with Joel Miller, co-founder of SkyFloor, to discuss how businesses can shift from selling hours to selling outcomes. Joel shares the lessons he and his twin brother learned while building their agency, including the mistakes they made with pricing, how they transitioned to value-based pricing, and why positioning is the foundation of premium pricing.They also dive into the role AI plays in today's service businesses. Rather than replacing expertise, Joel explains how AI can become a powerful collaborative tool that helps professionals deliver better results more efficiently, while reinforcing the importance of human experience, strategic thinking, and client trust.In this episode, you'll learn:Why hourly pricing often creates burnout and limits business growth.How to determine the true value of your services.The importance of asking better questions during discovery calls.How positioning influences pricing more than most business owners realize.Why raising your prices can temporarily reduce leads, and why that's often a good sign.How AI can enhance your work without diminishing your value.The mindset shifts needed to confidently charge premium prices.About Joel MillerJoel Miller is the co-founder of SkyFloor, a digital strategy and web agency he has built alongside his twin brother for more than 17 years. Joel helps businesses clarify their positioning, develop effective digital strategies, and create websites that focus on measurable business outcomes. Connect with JoelWebsite: https://www.theskyfloor.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelelliottmiller/ Looking to leverage AI? Want better results? Want to think about what you want to leverage?Check and see how I am using it for FREE on YouTube. From "Holy cow, it can do that?" to "Wait, how does this work again?" – I've got all your AI curiosities covered. It's the perfect after-podcast snack for your tech-hungry brain. Watch here

Are you trying to grow your small business and figure out the best way to reach the right audience? If so, I want you to know that SEO can help you grow your audience, visibility, leads, and sales if you know what to do and how to do it on your website, blog, podcast, or even social media channels. Your ideal customer is searching for information online. Let me help you understand how to find them.  Support the showRegister now for the free SEO class - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/registration-seo-class  My free resources are here- https://www.etchedmarketing.com/freebies  Want to work with me 1:1? https://www.etchedmarketing.com/marketing-consulting   Join me in Simple SEO Content -https://www.etchedmarketing.com/yes Join Simple Podcast SEO and learn how to grow your show quickly and easily in the self-study podcast SEO program. - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/enroll My favorite marketing tools (affiliate links) Podcast recording and editing - DescriptPodcast hosting - BuzzsproutEmail Marketing - Active CampaignMarketing Website Analytics - Clicky SEO Tool - Ubersuggest     Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast? Ask it here -  https://forms.gle/Fbrqpmss6gxUnaMj7

What happens when the career you worked so hard to build no longer has room for you to grow?In this episode of Gritty is the New Pretty, host Krystle Edwards sits down with Elaine McKnight, founder of The McKnight Element, to talk about leaving the perceived safety of corporate life, grieving the identity attached to a dream job, and building a business rooted in strategy, storytelling, and cultural connection. Elaine shares how she turned years of marketing experience into a purpose-driven business that helps small businesses and nonprofits better understand their customers, reach overlooked audiences, and create marketing that feels human—not performative.Join us as we discuss:• When the Dream Changes: Why leaving a prestigious career can feel like losing part of your identity—and how grief can be part of professional growth.• Marketing Is Bigger Than Social Media: How storytelling, customer experience, referrals, accessibility, and trust work together to grow a sustainable brand.• Stop Overlooking Entire Markets: Why authentic, year-round cultural inclusion helps businesses reach customers who are ready to engage, buy, and belong.If this episode hit, take 10 seconds and help it travel—follow the show, leave a quick rating, and share it with a woman who's ready to be heard.Follow us @gritcitywomen | www.gritcitywomen.com

Send us Fan MailYou paid for a brand shoot, you love the photos, and they're sitting in a folder on your computer not booking a single client. Here's the truth: the photos that fill your calendar are not about how you look. They're about what your future client needs to see to feel ready to hire you. That's a completely different brief.In this episode, I'm giving you the 5 questions to answer before your next brand shoot so every photo pulls its weight in your marketing.In this episode, I cover:Why brands using original photos see a 35% increase in customer trustThe most overlooked shot in every brand session (not one photographer I've worked with planned for it)What to wear when you don't have a uniform, and the 4 colors that work with any brand paletteHow your client's before-and-after emotions become a visual brief for your expressionsVaried looks: how one shoot can fuel a year of scroll-stopping contentWhy your tools, your workspace, and even your pets belong in your photosHow these photos become Pinterest pins, reel covers, and thumbnails that stop the scrollGrab the free Brand Shoot Prep Checklist inside my Visibility Vault at learn.jenvazquez.com/resources, and if you're ready for a shoot planned around your marketing, book a free discovery call at jenvazquez.com/discovery.  Or, read right here. https://jenvazquez.com/brand-photo-shoot-prep-5-questions-that-book-clients/Support the showWanna learn Pinterest with an expert there to help for only $37?  Pinterest Visibility Sprint is a 2 hour Sprint to optimize your Pinterest and create a marketing workflow Pinterest Visibility Sprint Here are some free things I've got coming up:Want your account audited? FREE Pinterest Audits LIVE on YouTube. Free Pinterest Masterclass

Send us Fan MailTrying to keep up with every social media platform can feel like a full-time job. The truth is, your best marketing strategy may not be posting more. It may simply be showing up in the right place.In this episode of Imperfect Marketing, Kendra Corman talks with travel advisor Ali Raymer about how she rebuilt her marketing strategy after COVID by asking one simple question:Where are my best clients making buying decisions?Instead of chasing every new platform, Ali focused on understanding her ideal clients, choosing platforms that aligned with both her audience and her own strengths, and creating a marketing system she could actually sustain.Whether you're a business owner, marketer, or entrepreneur feeling overwhelmed by social media, this conversation will help you simplify your approach and build a strategy that attracts the right customers without burning you out.In this episode, you'll learn:Why you don't need to be on every social media platformHow to determine where your ideal clients actually make purchasing decisionsThe importance of consistency over constant expansionHow to know when a platform is worth investing your time inWhy your current clients are your best source of marketing researchPractical ways to build a marketing routine that supports your business instead of taking it overAli also shares the story of how one missed client opportunity completely changed the way she approached branding and marketing, ultimately helping her attract the exact type of clients she wanted.If you've ever wondered whether you're spending time on the wrong platforms, this episode will give you a fresh perspective and actionable ideas you can put into practice immediately.Connect with Ali RaymerLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/alipicturethistravelWebsite: www.peaceandpearltravel.comIf you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe to Imperfect Marketing and leave a review. It helps more business owners discover practical, honest marketing conversations that actually make a difference. Looking to leverage AI? Want better results? Want to think about what you want to leverage?Check and see how I am using it for FREE on YouTube. From "Holy cow, it can do that?" to "Wait, how does this work again?" – I've got all your AI curiosities covered. It's the perfect after-podcast snack for your tech-hungry brain. Watch here

Discover how small businesses can build powerful marketing plans without breaking the bank. Learn the exact steps to choose cost-effective channels, create compelling content, and track what truly matters for growth. Profit Acuity City: Pittsburgh Address: 239 Fourth Ave, Ste 1401 #8511 Website: https://app.profitacuity.com Phone: +1 877 624 1229

Small Business SEO - What is a title tag, and do I need one? If you're working on SEO for your small business and aren't sure what matters and what doesn't, this week's episode will help you. I'll break down what title tags are, how you write them, what they look like on Google, who they're technically for, and more so you know what to do. Once you've written your title tag, the next thing to work on will be your meta description. You can find out more about that here - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/blog/what-is-a-meta-description Support the showRegister now for the free SEO class - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/registration-seo-class  My free resources are here- https://www.etchedmarketing.com/freebies  Want to work with me 1:1? https://www.etchedmarketing.com/marketing-consulting   Join me in Simple SEO Content -https://www.etchedmarketing.com/yes Join Simple Podcast SEO and learn how to grow your show quickly and easily in the self-study podcast SEO program. - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/enroll My favorite marketing tools (affiliate links) Podcast recording and editing - DescriptPodcast hosting - BuzzsproutEmail Marketing - Active CampaignMarketing Website Analytics - Clicky SEO Tool - Ubersuggest     Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast? Ask it here -  https://forms.gle/Fbrqpmss6gxUnaMj7

Brand isn't just a marketing expense. It's one of the best long-term investments you can make as a business owner. In this episode, Guy Bauer steps away from filmmaking and creative direction to talk owner-to-owner about why Umault has invested more than half a million dollars into building its brand over the past seven years. Drawing from his own experience of putting marketing on pause while making his feature film Ana the Cleaner, he explains why strong brands continue generating results long after campaigns end. If you're focused entirely on short-term lead generation, this episode is a reminder that the strongest businesses are built by investing in something people remember long after they've seen it.

Send us Fan MailIf you are posting on Pinterest and still not getting found, the problem is not your design, it is your keywords. In this episode I break down the biggest Pinterest keyword mistake service providers make and the exact four question interview I run with every client before we touch anything else.In this episode:Why the biggest, highest volume keywords are usually the hardest ones to winWhy keyword stuffing in your pin description kills your clicksThe 4 question interview to find your best keywords, straight from your own businessThe keyword walk down, taking a broad term all the way to a specific, winnable oneWhy a zero volume keyword can still be the one that books your ideal clientThe 3 free tools I use to validate every keyword before it goes on a pinALL THE LINKS MENTIONED: https://jenvazquez.com/pinterest-keyword-research/Support the showWanna learn Pinterest with an expert there to help for only $37?  Pinterest Visibility Sprint is a 2 hour Sprint to optimize your Pinterest and create a marketing workflow Pinterest Visibility Sprint Here are some free things I've got coming up:Want your account audited? FREE Pinterest Audits LIVE on YouTube. Free Pinterest Masterclass

If you're doing SEO for your small business, the first, most important step might really surprise you. I don't have student start by choosing keywords or even brainstorming the questions they should answer on their websites and blogs. I have them start with something more foundational: who is their ideal customer? You probably have a good idea who your ideal customer is, but if you're anything like my students and clients (and you probably are), you likely don't know them well enough for SEO. Listen in and find out why knowing your ideal customer is super important to your SEO.  Support the showRegister now for the free SEO class - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/registration-seo-class  My free resources are here- https://www.etchedmarketing.com/freebies  Want to work with me 1:1? https://www.etchedmarketing.com/marketing-consulting   Join me in Simple SEO Content -https://www.etchedmarketing.com/yes Join Simple Podcast SEO and learn how to grow your show quickly and easily in the self-study podcast SEO program. - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/enroll My favorite marketing tools (affiliate links) Podcast recording and editing - DescriptPodcast hosting - BuzzsproutEmail Marketing - Active CampaignMarketing Website Analytics - Clicky SEO Tool - Ubersuggest     Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast? Ask it here -  https://forms.gle/Fbrqpmss6gxUnaMj7

Nate Spangle never set out to build a media company. He set out to be the first truck in line at the Indy 500. That single idea, filmed on his phone while walking into work, blew up overnight and became Get Indiana, the brand now known across the state for hyping up small towns, local businesses, and the people most folks would drive right past. In this episode, Chris Anderson sits down with Nate to unpack how a $3,000 truck off Facebook Marketplace turned into a full media company, and why plain old curiosity is the real engine behind all of it. Nate opens up about the loss that reshaped how he sees people, the strategy behind his fastest-growing videos, and the mindset that keeps him swinging even when a big idea does not land. Here is what Chris and Nate get into: How one viral video and a 1986 Dodge truck launched Get Indiana and 15,000 followers in six weeks Why you cannot fake obsession, and how being real beats being polished every time The "delta" strategy: finding the gap between what people want and what nobody else is making Losing his mom at 20, the second chance he got with his grandmother, and how learning to ask better questions changed everything Why chasing a thousand real fans beats chasing a million strangers Building a team, handing off the mic, and turning a one-man brand into a real business The habits that keep him going: a short memory, no sulking, and dreaming so big it makes people uncomfortable Whether you want to start something of your own, grow an audience, or just get more out of every single day, Nate's story is a straight shot of proof that the only way it does not work out is if you quit. Follow Nate and Get Indiana at getindiana.com and @NateSpangle on all social media. New episodes of The Upgraded Man drop every week This episode may or may not be sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, meaning we'll receive a small commission if you buy something.===========================⚡️ PODCAST: Subscribe and listen on all major platforms⚡️ Want to be a guest on The Upgraded Man? Apply here ➡ https://upgraded-man.com/guest⚡️ For support or business inquiries, email us ➡ chris@upgraded-man.com Our mission at The Upgraded Man is simple — help men upgrade every area of their life through real conversations, honest stories, and actionable insight from men who have done the work.The content on The Upgraded Man is for informational and entertainment purposes only. The views expressed by the host and guests are their own and do not constitute professional legal, financial, medical, or therapeutic advice. Always consult a qualified professional before making decisions based on information discussed on this podcast. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

For anyone who's been putting off their branding because they've told themselves they need more money first, I get why you'd think that. But it's genuinely one of the more expensive beliefs you can hold in business. This podcast kicks off a three part series on building a brand on a budget, and today I'm tackling the myth head on. Because a strong brand isn't actually about how much you spend, it's about knowing what to prioritise and what can wait a while. I'm walking through the four things your brand genuinely needs (spoiler, your logo is only one of them), the two things you can happily skip for now, and the hidden cost of not sorting your branding out at all. Free Canva Masterclass: Design Tools to $100k

Send us Fan MailYou're pinning consistently, your impressions look great, and your calendar is still empty. Here's the problem: you've been watching the wrong number. Pinterest shows you 5 metrics, and only one of them is actually connected to whether you book a clientIn this episode I'm breaking down:What impressions, saves, pin clicks, and outbound clicks each actually mean for your businessWhy saves feel like a win but rarely turn into a clientA real client story where outbound clicks jumped 315% after we fixed her titles and descriptionsWhat a good Pinterest click through rate actually looks like in 2026The exact words that move outbound clicks (and the keyword mistake that tanks them)Two things you can do this week, starting today, to move your numberALL THE LINKS: https://jenvazquez.com/pinterest-outbound-clicks/Support the showWanna learn Pinterest with an expert there to help for only $37?  Pinterest Visibility Sprint is a 2 hour Sprint to optimize your Pinterest and create a marketing workflow Pinterest Visibility Sprint Here are some free things I've got coming up:Want your account audited? FREE Pinterest Audits LIVE on YouTube. Free Pinterest Masterclass

Recorded live at SocialWest 2026 in Calgary, Azrah Manji-Savin, entrepreneur, speaker, and co-founder of Syzl, joins host Lindsay Smith to unpack why personal branding and in-person networking matter more than ever in an increasingly digital world.Syzl is an online marketplace helping food entrepreneurs access commercial kitchen space, along with the operational and financial support they need to actually grow. Beyond building the platform, Azra is passionate about helping people build authentic professional relationships and stand out without losing sight of who they are.Azrah breaks down why personal brand searches have skyrocketed alongside AI, how to network without it feeling like a performance, what it looks like to build a personal brand guide the same way you'd build one for a client, and why staying consistent online and in person is the thing that actually builds trust.Networking isn't a performance. It's just a conversation you haven't had yet.Edited and produced by TAKT.

My guest today is Bryan Fikes of Bonsai Marketing. Brian has been working in search marketing since the early days of the internet, and in this episode we explore how local businesses can stay visible as Google search and AI continue to evolve.Today we talk about:Why your Google Business Profile may be the fastest place to get results for your efforts How to balance short-term strategies like Google Ads with long-term investments in SEO.The role AI is playing in local search, and why answering your patients' questions has never been more important.Simple DIY marketing tasks you can do each week that can make a real difference, even if you don't have a huge budget.If you've been wondering where to focus your marketing efforts right now, this conversation is packed with practical advice. Hope you enjoy this episode with Bryan!Show Notes:Website: BonsaiMarketingCompany.comGet your free marketing audit with BryanYouTube: @BonsaiMarketingCompanyInstagram: @BonsaiMarketingCompanyMarketing Breakthrough Audit with Michelle

Are you working on small business SEO and wondering if Substack might also be a good marketing channel for your business? If so, you're not alone. A lot of my students and clients are finding they love Substack. I wanted to take a bit to explain what you want to think through strategically if you're looking at building out a Substack. It can help or hurt your business depending on how you set it up and what you do with your website and blog content.  Support the showRegister now for the free SEO class - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/registration-seo-class  My free resources are here- https://www.etchedmarketing.com/freebies  Want to work with me 1:1? https://www.etchedmarketing.com/marketing-consulting   Join me in Simple SEO Content -https://www.etchedmarketing.com/yes Join Simple Podcast SEO and learn how to grow your show quickly and easily in the self-study podcast SEO program. - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/enroll My favorite marketing tools (affiliate links) Podcast recording and editing - DescriptPodcast hosting - BuzzsproutEmail Marketing - Active CampaignMarketing Website Analytics - Clicky SEO Tool - Ubersuggest     Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast? Ask it here -  https://forms.gle/Fbrqpmss6gxUnaMj7

Send us Fan MailYou're pouring hours into content that vanishes in a day, and it's exhausting. In this episode, Jen breaks down why Pinterest works completely differently than every other platform you're posting on, and why a single pin she made in 2014 is still sending her traffic almost 12 years later.In this episode:Why Pinterest is a search engine, not social media, and what that means for how long your content actually worksThe real lifespan of an Instagram story, feed post, carousel, and reel compared to a Pinterest pinPinterest's audience numbers and why 97% of searches are unbranded, wide open territory for new discoveryWhat Jen's own analytics show when she compares Pinterest traffic to Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube combinedWhy the first few months on Pinterest feel quiet, and why that's exactly when most people quit right before it pays offThe simple batching system that gets a pin out every day without Jen doing daily workALL LINKS MENTIONED: https://jenvazquez.com/how-long-do-pinterest-pins-last/Support the showWanna learn Pinterest with an expert there to help for only $37?  Pinterest Visibility Sprint is a 2 hour Sprint to optimize your Pinterest and create a marketing workflow Pinterest Visibility Sprint Here are some free things I've got coming up:Want your account audited? FREE Pinterest Audits LIVE on YouTube. Free Pinterest Masterclass

JP Middleton started his company out of his mom's basement at 21. No clients, no experience, and no idea what he was getting into. Eight years later, Gym Members Now is a seven-figure operation working with hundreds of fitness businesses, and JP just joined the Alloy vendor network. In this episode, Alloy founder Rick Mayo sits down with JP to find out what GMN actually does differently. The answer is not the ads. It is everything that happens before and after the ads that most marketing vendors completely ignore: activating dead leads in your existing database, answering missed calls with AI, chasing reviews and turning them into referrals, and following up with new leads within five minutes instead of the industry average of 42 hours. JP also breaks down the three things that genuinely set GMN apart, why word of mouth is still the only real proof that your business is working, and what he learned about fitness marketing from working inside chiropractic offices, med spas, and roofing companies. If you are an Alloy franchisee or an independent gym owner wondering why your marketing spend is not converting, this episode has your answer. Listen in to find out what a real lead-to-member system looks like. Key Takeaways: 00:00 Your Fault or Our Problem? 02:44 Mom's Basement to Seven Figures 04:42 Why Gym Owners Hire the Wrong Help 07:22 What Makes GMN Different 08:56 Testing on Real Gyms Before Touching Yours 12:04 Cross-Industry Intel from Chiropractors to Roofers 12:46 From Marketing Agency to AI Agency 13:44 98% Check Reviews. Only 9% Ask for Them. 15:22 Mining Dead Leads Before Spending on Ads 16:22 62% of Calls Go Unanswered 17:00 The Harvard Study: Follow Up in 5 Minutes or Lose the Lead 18:46 Two Camps: Blame the Owner or Handle It 23:40 The One Thing Every New Business Owner Needs to Hear 26:28 Shoutout to Andy Gundlach and How It All Came Full Circle 28:08 Last Meal: Dairy Queen, Death Row, and Two Blizzards Additional Resources: - Alloy Personal Training - Learn About The Alloy Franchise Opportunity --------- You can find the podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you haven't already, please rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts! To learn more about the Alloy Personal Training Franchise Opportunity, visit

Pricing can feel like the simplest lever in a small business, but it's also the one that messes with your head the fastest. When a prospect disappears after you send a proposal, it's easy to assume the number is the problem and start discounting, adding payment plans, or stuffing your offer with bonuses. I take a different angle here: I've become convinced that pricing often wears a mask, and until we name what's underneath, changing the rate won't fix the real friction.We walk through five common “pricing problems” that usually aren't pricing problems at all–they are just wearing disguises.  Along the way, I share simple diagnostic questions you can use on your own business, plus the “two-week vacation” test that reveals whether your pricing or business model is actually supporting your life.Send us Fan MailSupport the showShow Notes  Apply to be featured on My Weekly Marketing!Take the Marketing Clarity Quiz and get instant insights on your marketing strategy.

Small business SEO tips - how to check your SEO rankings. If you're doing SEO for your small business and you want to know if it's working, then this week's episode will help you. I'm going to walk you through what you want to track and what those numbers mean so you can start to see how things are working.  Support the showRegister now for the free SEO class - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/registration-seo-class  My free resources are here- https://www.etchedmarketing.com/freebies  Want to work with me 1:1? https://www.etchedmarketing.com/marketing-consulting   Join me in Simple SEO Content -https://www.etchedmarketing.com/yes Join Simple Podcast SEO and learn how to grow your show quickly and easily in the self-study podcast SEO program. - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/enroll My favorite marketing tools (affiliate links) Podcast recording and editing - DescriptPodcast hosting - BuzzsproutEmail Marketing - Active CampaignMarketing Website Analytics - Clicky SEO Tool - Ubersuggest     Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast? Ask it here -  https://forms.gle/Fbrqpmss6gxUnaMj7

Most small businesses pour nearly all of their marketing budget into finding new customers while overlooking the people who already know, trust, and buy from them. John Jantsch explains why onboarding, repeat business, referrals, and customer reactivation often deliver the highest return on investment—and how a simple customer experience system can create sustainable growth. Learn how to build a customer engine that increases retention, generates referrals, and turns happy customers into your most effective marketing asset. If growth has stalled, the opportunity may already be sitting in your customer database. 00:00 Introduction 01:16 The Half of Marketing You're Ignoring 03:06 The First 90 Days Make or Break Trust 07:43 Turn Customer Success Into New Business 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!

Send us Fan MailMost business owners know email marketing matters.So why are so many still avoiding it?In this episode of Imperfect Marketing, Kendra shares two recent conversations with business owners from completely different industries who were facing the exact same challenge: email marketing. One business wasn't sending emails at all because they were worried about annoying customers. The other, a multi-million-dollar company with a long sales cycle, viewed email continuity as one of their most important marketing priorities.The lesson? Whether your customers buy every few weeks or every few years, staying top of mind matters.Kendra breaks down the biggest misconceptions business owners have about email marketing, why open rates aren't the whole story, and how simply showing up consistently can make a significant difference in your growth.In this episode, you'll learn:• Why email marketing remains one of the most effective marketing channels available• The real purpose of email marketing beyond clicks and conversions• Why fear of being annoying is holding many businesses back• How staying visible helps customers remember and choose you• A simple action step you can take this week to reconnect with your audienceIf you've been putting off sending emails because you don't know what to write, you're worried about bothering people, or you're waiting for the "perfect" message, this episode is for you.Subscribe to Imperfect Marketing for practical marketing strategies that help you grow your business without chasing perfection. Looking to leverage AI? Want better results? Want to think about what you want to leverage?Check and see how I am using it for FREE on YouTube. From "Holy cow, it can do that?" to "Wait, how does this work again?" – I've got all your AI curiosities covered. It's the perfect after-podcast snack for your tech-hungry brain. Watch here

Most businesses think they have a healthy pipeline—until an algorithm changes, ad costs spike, or a platform disappears. This installment of the 7 Steps to Small Business Marketing Success explains the difference between rented and owned marketing channels, and why long-term growth depends on assets you control. Learn how email, referrals, strategic partnerships, and direct relationships create a more resilient lead generation system that keeps working no matter what happens to the platforms around you. 00:00 Own vs. Rented Marketing 04:42 Why Email Isn't Dead 09:08 Build a Referral Engine 10:52 The Most Underrated Lead Source 12:10 Double Down on Relationships 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 week on Branded & Booked, we're joined by Katie Major, copywriter, social media strategist, and coach for creative entrepreneurs who want marketing to feel more human.Katie is known for her real, raw, person-first approach to content and messaging. She believes marketing should work for your life, not the other way around and we couldn't agree more.In this episode, we dive into:✍️ What copywriting actually is (and why it's so much more than writing words) ✨ How great copy supports your brand, marketing, and sales 

Why More Content Is Making You Invisible | 7 Steps to Small Business Marketing Success - Episode 4 Creating more content should make your business easier to find. So why are so many brands becoming less visible? John breaks down the AI content trap, why generic marketing is getting ignored, and the simple framework smart businesses use to build authority instead. If your content feels busy but isn't driving trust, traffic, or customers, this shift changes everything. 00:00 Introduction 02:49 Why More Content Hurts Your Visibility 05:51 The 3 Content Pillars That Actually Work 07:24 Turn One Idea Into 100 Pieces of Content 09:01 Why Generic Content Gets Ignored 11:44 Build Content Customers Actually Notice 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!

Customers aren't finding businesses the way they did a few years ago, and many small business owners haven't caught up. AI search, topic authority, reviews, and credibility signals are reshaping how buying decisions happen online. Learn what makes a business findable today, why traditional SEO alone is no longer enough, and the practical changes that help customers choose you over competitors. 00:00 Introduction 04:32 How AI Search Is Changing Marketing 10:05 Your Website Should Sell, Not Explain 12:25 Build Content AI Will Recommend 15:40 Why Third-Party Mentions Matter More 17:23 See If AI Recommends Your Business 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!

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Small business marketing fails when tactics come before strategy. John Jantsch explains how to stop random acts of marketing by defining your ideal client, clarifying your true difference, creating a core message, and mapping the customer journey through the Marketing Hourglass. 00:00 Introduction 01:26 Random Acts of Marketing Explained 03:44 How to Define Your Ideal Client 08:04 How to Differentiate Your Business 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 marketing problems don't start with tactics. They start with clarity. John Jantsch shares why founders often become the hidden variable behind stalled growth, drifting strategy, and marketing that never seems to deliver. Through four difficult but revealing questions, he shows how business owners can uncover what's actually working, what needs to stop, where profit really comes from, and what they truly want their business to provide. This isn't about doing more marketing. It's about building a business strategy rooted in founder clarity so every decision, message, and growth effort moves in the right direction 00:00 Introduction 01:56 Why Clarity Comes Before Strategy 04:49 4 Questions Every Founder Should Ask 10:50 The Founder's Portrait Explained 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!

Jeff Dudan's free digital copy of his book What if you could give every customer a luxury experience - without a luxury budget? In this episode of the Unemployable Podcast, Jeff Dudan sits down with Neen James, global keynote speaker, luxury experience strategist, and author of *Exceptional Experiences*, to reveal the exact systems and mindsets that separate transactional businesses from unforgettable ones. Neen breaks down why satisfied customers are your biggest risk (not your biggest asset), how a $6 magazine subscription won a six-figure contract, why every business should think like a hotel concierge instead of a bellhop, and the five luxury levers any company - home services, franchise, B2B, or retail - can apply immediately to create advocates, not just clients. You'll learn: • The difference between a transactional and transformational customer experience • How to systemize thoughtfulness so personalization scales across your team • What luxury brands like Chanel, Delta, and private aviation do differently - and how you can borrow it • Why storytelling and metaphor are free tools that make your business impossible to forget • The Experience Elevation Model: Entice → Invite → Excite → Delight → Ignite • How to create "champagne moments" that turn ordinary service into word-of-mouth marketing • The hidden cost of not paying attention - in business, relationships, and life • Why your satisfied customers are already being poached by your competitors Whether you're a franchisee, franchise brand, home services business, or entrepreneur looking to build a legacy brand, this episode is packed with actionable systems you can start implementing today.  Homefront Brands: https://www.homefrontbrands.com Jeff Dudan: https://www.jeffdudan.com Guest: Neen James Guest YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/AussieNeen  Guest Website: https://neenjames.com/  Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neenjames/  #CustomerExperience #LuxuryBusiness #SmallBusinessGrowth #FranchiseBusiness #WordOfMouth #BusinessStrategy #UnemployablePodcast #Neen James #ClientRetention #EntrepreneurMindset Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Jeff Dudan's free digital copy of his book What if you could give every customer a luxury experience - without a luxury budget? In this episode of the Unemployable Podcast, Jeff Dudan sits down with Neen James, global keynote speaker, luxury experience strategist, and author of *Exceptional Experiences*, to reveal the exact systems and mindsets that separate transactional businesses from unforgettable ones. Neen breaks down why satisfied customers are your biggest risk (not your biggest asset), how a $6 magazine subscription won a six-figure contract, why every business should think like a hotel concierge instead of a bellhop, and the five luxury levers any company - home services, franchise, B2B, or retail - can apply immediately to create advocates, not just clients. You'll learn: • The difference between a transactional and transformational customer experience • How to systemize thoughtfulness so personalization scales across your team • What luxury brands like Chanel, Delta, and private aviation do differently - and how you can borrow it • Why storytelling and metaphor are free tools that make your business impossible to forget • The Experience Elevation Model: Entice → Invite → Excite → Delight → Ignite • How to create "champagne moments" that turn ordinary service into word-of-mouth marketing • The hidden cost of not paying attention - in business, relationships, and life • Why your satisfied customers are already being poached by your competitors Whether you're a franchisee, franchise brand, home services business, or entrepreneur looking to build a legacy brand, this episode is packed with actionable systems you can start implementing today.  Homefront Brands: https://www.homefrontbrands.com Jeff Dudan: https://www.jeffdudan.com Guest: Neen James Guest YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/AussieNeen  Guest Website: https://neenjames.com/  Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neenjames/  #CustomerExperience #LuxuryBusiness #SmallBusinessGrowth #FranchiseBusiness #WordOfMouth #BusinessStrategy #UnemployablePodcast #Neen James #ClientRetention #EntrepreneurMindset Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This Podcast is sponsored by Team Simmer Go to TeamSimmer and use the coupon code DEVIATE for 10% on individual course purchases. The Technical Marketing Handbook provides a comprehensive journey through technical marketing principles. (Getting an update soon) Sign up to the Simmer Newsletter for the latest news in Technical Marketing. NEW SIMMER COURSE ALERT!  - Data Analysis with R - taught by Arben Kqiku Latest content from Simo Ahava Add IPv6 Support To Your Server-side GTM Load Balancer Latest content from Juliana Jackson Your data will never match 1:1 across platforms, and that's fine. (subscribe to the newsletter for more amazing content) Article is written in collaboration with Stape.io Mentioned in the episode: Stape Jeff Sauer MeasureU Measure Summit Connect with Alina Popa Linkedin Her website This podcast is brought to you by Juliana Jackson and Simo Ahava.

In today's world of curated content, polished Instagram feeds, and highlight reels, it's easy for business owners to believe marketing is all about perception.But what happens when perception doesn't match reality?In this episode of The Visibility Podcast, Melissa Rose dives into the powerful difference between perception and truth in marketing, and why both matter if you want to build a trusted, sustainable business.Melissa unpacks how social media creates perception, why Google Business Profile acts as third-party verification, and how your website bridges the gap between what people see and what people actually experience when they work with you.If you are a dance studio owner, local business owner, or service-based entrepreneur trying to improve your visibility, marketing, SEO, and client trust, this episode is packed with practical insight and real talk.Because while social media may get attention… the truth is what gets people to stay.In This Episode: The difference between perception and truth in marketing  Why curated social media alone is not enough  How Google Business Profile builds trust and credibility  Why reviews, photos, and client feedback matter more than ever  The role SEO and Google search play in visibility  Why business owners are losing clients without realizing it  How your website should combine perception AND proof  Why visibility is more than just social media marketing  The connection between trust, search, and conversion  How AI and search behavior are changing local marketing Key Takeaways: Social media creates perception  Google Business Profile creates verification  Your website bridges the gap between the two  Visibility without trust will not convert  Reviews are one of the most powerful marketing tools you have Perfect For: Studio Owners  Brick-and-Mortar Businesses  Local Business Owners  Service-Based Entrepreneurs  Businesses wanting stronger SEO and local visibility  Anyone wanting to improve their Google Business Profile Melissa's Google Business Profile Workshop ✨ Live Workshop + Q&A ✨ On-Demand Training Available ✨ Learn how to optimize your Google presence before fall enrollment seasonKeywords:Google Business Profile, Local SEO, Visibility Marketing, Dance Studio Marketing, Small Business Marketing, Business Visibility, Google Reviews, Local Search, SEO Strategy, Brick and Mortar Visibility, Dance Studio Owner, Marketing Strategy, Service Business Marketing, Website Strategy, Online Reputation, ChatGPT Search, Google Optimization

Trust becomes the real sales gate in a world full of AI content, fake reviews, and copycat marketing. We break down how to build a resilient brand by tightening what happens inside the business before we try to persuade anyone outside it.  • losing control of the narrative as AI and social platforms reshape reputation  • differentiation as a trust strategy, not a slogan  • internal culture and leadership consistency as the starting point  • awareness of your digital footprint, including fake reviews and misinformation  • alignment between brand promise and frontline delivery  • authenticity through real proof, testimonials, and clear transparency  • accountability as the make-or-break moment in customer support and follow-up  • benchmarking a few trust gaps and improving them over time  Well, the easiest way to find my books is on Amazon.com. Use LinkedIn. Visit our website at bornesgroup.com and delighted to respond and test us if we respond to you in less than one hour.  Send us Fan MailSupport the showShow Notes  Apply to be featured on My Weekly Marketing!Take the Marketing Clarity Quiz and get instant insights on your marketing strategy.

Are you creating content for SEO? Do you find yourself wondering how to create great content for your readers and make sure it's SEO-friendly so that people can find it wherever they search? If so, you're not alone! Let's talk about how to create great content that's both SEO-friendly and something your audience wants to read. I think there's a big misunderstanding sometimes when it comes to SEO content development. Let's talk about what matters most to your business.  Support the showRegister now for the free SEO class - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/registration-seo-class  My free resources are here- https://www.etchedmarketing.com/freebies  Want to work with me 1:1? https://www.etchedmarketing.com/marketing-consulting   Join me in Simple SEO Content -https://www.etchedmarketing.com/yes Join Simple Podcast SEO and learn how to grow your show quickly and easily in the self-study podcast SEO program. - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/enroll My favorite marketing tools (affiliate links) Podcast recording and editing - DescriptPodcast hosting - BuzzsproutEmail Marketing - Active CampaignMarketing Website Analytics - Clicky SEO Tool - Ubersuggest     Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast? Ask it here -  https://forms.gle/Fbrqpmss6gxUnaMj7

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Send us Fan MailAre your “beautiful” emails actually hurting your results?When was the last time you replied to a perfectly designed newsletter?What if the thing you're spending the most time on… is the reason your emails aren't working?If this episode shifts how you think about email marketing, be sure to follow the show and share it with a business owner who needs to simplify their strategy.For years, we've been told that email marketing should look polished, branded, and visually impressive. But what if that's exactly what's getting in the way?In this episode, Kendra breaks down why she stopped sending “pretty” emails—and started seeing better results. Instead of spending time on templates, graphics, and formatting, she focused on writing simple, text-based emails that feel like a real conversation. The shift led to more engagement, more replies, and stronger connections with her audience.When emails look like marketing, people treat them like marketing—they skim, ignore, or delete. But when your message feels personal and direct, it creates a different experience. People read it. They respond. And they stay connected to you over time. This episode will show you:How to increase engagement without spending hours on designA simple framework for writing emails that feel personal and naturalWhy plain text emails often outperform designed newslettersThe mindset shift from “email blast” to meaningful conversationHow to get more replies and stay top of mind with your audienceIf you're tired of overthinking your emails and still not seeing results, this approach offers a simpler, more effective way to connect and convert.About the hostKendra Corman is a marketing strategist and host of Imperfect Marketing, where she helps business owners simplify their marketing and focus on what actually works. With over 20 years of experience, she shares practical, no-fluff strategies that help entrepreneurs take action and get results.  Looking to leverage AI? Want better results? Want to think about what you want to leverage?Check and see how I am using it for FREE on YouTube. From "Holy cow, it can do that?" to "Wait, how does this work again?" – I've got all your AI curiosities covered. It's the perfect after-podcast snack for your tech-hungry brain. Watch here

What does it look like to have a world-class CMO in your corner without the full-time price tag? In this episode, Alloy founder Rick Mayo sits down with Erin Levzow, CMO at CapitalSpring, to talk about the real value of fractional marketing leadership. Erin has held CMO roles at Wingstop, Freebirds, Museum of Ice Cream, and Marcus Hotels, and now works across the full CapitalSpring portfolio to help franchise brands build stronger marketing systems and better internal teams. She and Rick dig into how she mentors marketers inside growing companies, why most franchisees make the mistake of betting everything on one marketing channel, and what the faucet-and-bucket analogy tells you about why your spend is or is not working. They also talk about the human connection at the core of the Alloy model and why that matters more than ever in an AI-driven world. If you are building a franchise brand or trying to get more out of your marketing team, this episode is worth your time. Listen in to learn what great franchise marketing leadership actually looks like. Key Takeaways: 00:00 There Is No Silver Bullet 02:48 From Vegas Dead-Body Apartment to CMO 05:00 Wingstop, Museum of Ice Cream and the Road to CapitalSpring 07:32 Why CapitalSpring Recruited Erin onto Their Own Team 09:26 What a Fractional CMO Actually Does Day to Day 13:04 The Cyclical Relationship Between Franchisees and Customers 16:42 Why Alloy Stood Out as a Marketing Story 17:36 Mentoring Marketers Who Want to Do Everything Themselves 21:06 The Faucet and Bucket: Why Dripping Does Not Work 23:36 Do Not Get Drunk on Digital 25:16 The Karaoke Question Additional Resources: - Alloy Personal Training - Learn About The Alloy Franchise Opportunity --------- You can find the podcast on Apple, Google, Spotify, Stitcher, or wherever you listen to podcasts. If you haven't already, please rate and review the podcast on Apple Podcasts! To learn more about the Alloy Personal Training Franchise Opportunity, visit

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to walk into a room full of strangers and walk out with real connections? In this episode of Navigating the Customer Experience, host Yanique Grant sits down with Alexandra Silva Labarr, internationally recognized speaker, author, and founder of Xandra Marketing and PR. Known as the Networking Queen, Alexandra brings over 25 years of experience in marketing, business development, and sales to a conversation that is practical, personal, and deeply inspiring.Alexandra's journey is one of remarkable resilience. After decades in corporate America, she bet on herself and launched her own marketing firm just before COVID hit, shutting down the in person networking she had built her reputation on. Instead of retreating, she pivoted, went digital, gave back to her community, and emerged stronger. Today, Xandra Marketing and PR helps businesses take full ownership of their marketing, from social media and branding to digital presence and messaging strategy.Her story starts at 13 years old, when she lost her mother. That experience taught her that finding the right people and leaning on them is not weakness, it is strategy. That understanding became the foundation for everything she has built since, including her Power of Networking Community, now with 15 chapters across South Florida. She is also the author of three books: The Power of Networking, Show Up Scared, and Show Up Scared: Teen Edition, which became an Amazon bestseller and has taken her into schools and universities across the country.In this episode Alexandra walks us through her Seven Essential C's of Networking and highlights the two people struggle with most: Courage and Common Ground. She explains why most people have courage and confidence backwards, and why showing up scared is the only real path to confidence. She also gets practical, giving you a step by step approach for exactly what to say at a networking event, how to approach a group already in conversation, how to introduce yourself without leading with a pitch, and how to craft a 30 second commercial built around the pain you solve.Alexandra also shares her thoughts on follow up, encouraging listeners to pick up the phone and let people hear their voice, because authenticity lives in your voice and people do business with people they can feel.Topics covered include the Seven C's of Networking, courage vs confidence, building common ground, crafting your 30 second commercial, follow up strategy, AI tools for entrepreneurs, and details on the Show Up Scared teen event at the Mayfair Hotel in Coconut Grove on June 23rd.Featured Resources:The Power of Networking by Alexandra Silva Labarr available on AmazonShow Up Scared by Alexandra Silva Labarr available on AmazonShow Up Scared: Teen Edition by Alexandra Silva Labarr available on AmazonHow to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie available on AmazonIt's Not Who You Know, It's Who Knows You available on AmazonBooks by John C. Maxwell available on AmazonBooks by Brené Brown available on AmazonClaude AI: claude.aiShow Up Scared Teen Event: June 23rd at the Mayfair Hotel, Coconut Grove, FL. Visit alexandrasilvabar.com for full event details and tickets.Connect with Alexandra Silva Labarr:Google her name and everything will appear including her website, social media profiles, upcoming events, and speaking opportunities. She is especially active on LinkedIn and responds to every message personally.Website: alexandrasilvalabarr.comConnect with Navigating the Customer Experience:Follow us on X @NavigatingCX and join our private Facebook group, Navigating the Customer Experience Community. You can also find us on LinkedIn and at yaniquegrant.com.If this episode added value to you, please share it with a fellow business owner, leave us a review, and subscribe so you never miss a new episode. Thank you for listening and until next time, keep navigating forward.

Do you find yourself wondering if Claude or ChatGPT (or another AI tool) can either teach you how to do SEO or just do it for you? If so, you're not alone. I get the appeal. I really do. I recently tested out both Claude and ChatGPT to see if they could either teach me SEO or do SEO on a website and have it work. Listen in to see what I found out and learn what AI can help you with and what it's limitations are when it comes to SEO.  Support the showRegister now for the free SEO class - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/registration-seo-class  My free resources are here- https://www.etchedmarketing.com/freebies  Want to work with me 1:1? https://www.etchedmarketing.com/marketing-consulting   Join me in Simple SEO Content -https://www.etchedmarketing.com/yes Join Simple Podcast SEO and learn how to grow your show quickly and easily in the self-study podcast SEO program. - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/enroll My favorite marketing tools (affiliate links) Podcast recording and editing - DescriptPodcast hosting - BuzzsproutEmail Marketing - Active CampaignMarketing Website Analytics - Clicky SEO Tool - Ubersuggest     Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast? Ask it here -  https://forms.gle/Fbrqpmss6gxUnaMj7

What happens when a franchisor and its franchisees are both running ads at the same time, targeting the same people? In this episode, Alloy founder Rick Mayo sits down with Aren Johnstone, CEO of Franchise Ramp, to talk about one of the most misunderstood problems in franchise marketing: duplicate spend. Aren breaks down why national and local budgets so often work against each other, what a properly divided marketing funnel actually looks like, and how Franchise Ramp built a system that makes every dollar, national and local, work harder. Aren also shares how he got his start buying an e-commerce business his senior year of high school, why he eventually left that world for franchising, and what Franchise Ramp's no-contract model says about where their confidence comes from. If you are an Alloy franchisee, a prospective owner, or just trying to understand where your brand fund actually goes, this episode gives you a clear answer.

Are you trying to do SEO on your own and wondering if what you're doing is working? Find out how to tell if your SEO strategy is working in this week's episode. I'll walk you through what to check to see if everything is working as it should be, so you can be visible, generate traffic, and most importantly, leads for your business. SEO is a great channel for small business owners if you do it the right way. Let me teach you how to do SEO on your website.  Support the showRegister now for the free SEO class - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/registration-seo-class  My free resources are here- https://www.etchedmarketing.com/freebies  Want to work with me 1:1? https://www.etchedmarketing.com/marketing-consulting   Join me in Simple SEO Content -https://www.etchedmarketing.com/yes Join Simple Podcast SEO and learn how to grow your show quickly and easily in the self-study podcast SEO program. - https://www.etchedmarketing.com/enroll My favorite marketing tools (affiliate links) Podcast recording and editing - DescriptPodcast hosting - BuzzsproutEmail Marketing - Active CampaignMarketing Website Analytics - Clicky SEO Tool - Ubersuggest     Do you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast? Ask it here -  https://forms.gle/Fbrqpmss6gxUnaMj7

Marketing advice online often pushes creators toward trends, virality, and constant output, but it turns out that's not what actually builds a sustainable business. This minisode brings together insights from Shannon McKinstrie, Off the Walls Murals, and Alyssa Vilardi to show what really moves the needle: clear messaging, content that makes people feel connected, and paying attention to the metrics that actually matter (like retention, not just reach). It's a shift from chasing spikes to building something steady, from underpricing to standing behind your value, and from guessing what works to creating with intention, so that your marketing feels like an extension of your work, not something separate from it.In this episode, you'll hear:Why building genuine community matters more than chasing one viral momentThe one element that stops the scroll (and it's not what you think)The metric Instagram cares about that most creators ignoreWhy designing for the algorithm doesn't mean losing yourselfThe pricing mistake almost every creative makesHow certification turns assistants into brand ambassadorsThe financial sustainability detail most creatives overlookHit rewind on these episodes:Social Media Expert Shannon McKinstrie Tells Us How to Grow on InstagramTurning DIY, Motherhood, and Mess Into a Creative Business with Alyssa Vilardi of The Things We BuiltBuilding a Creative Business with Your Best Friend feat. Caroline & Tianna of Off the Walls MuralsWelcome to Brush & Banter—the podcast where creativity meets real-life hustle. Brought to you by Zibra, we go beyond perfect brushstrokes to explore the messy, magical, and meaningful side of being an artist. We're here to bring you conversations with working artists, practical tips to grow your creative business, and a built-in painting companion for your next project. Brush & Banter is co-hosted by Brie Hansen, President of Zibra; Annie Bolding, Founder of It's a Disco Day Designs; and Lauren Cooper, Founder of Rosemont Lane Design Studio.Connect with Zibra: WebsiteInstagramTikTokFacebook YouTubeBlog

What if the reason your small business marketing isn't working has nothing to do with your budget, your platform or your posting schedule? This episode is a live recording from Localist Lab, our free monthly marketing event for small business owners in Birmingham. Marketing consultant Laine White of Uptick Marketing joined Carrie Rollwagen on stage at Saturn in Avondale to share a simple three-question framework that reveals where most small business marketing goes wrong — and exactly what to fix first. Laine walks through the three questions every piece of marketing needs to answer: Is it clear what you are selling? Is it clear why they need to buy? And is it clear what they need to do next? She works through real examples, a live Q&A with the audience, and some honest talk about Google ads, AI in marketing and what actually moves the needle for small businesses with limited budgets. If you have ever felt like your marketing is not working but you could not figure out why, this episode gives you a framework you can apply to everything — your website, your ads, your social media — starting today.  

Check out Constant Contact and use the special URL constantcontact.com/jay for a discount. You can also catch Frank speaking at the upcoming GURU Conference and connect with him directly on LinkedIn.‎Read the Small Business Now Report from Constant Contact.‎Ever wonder how someone goes from getting fired at KFC to running one of the most iconic digital platforms in the world? Jay Schwedelson sits down with Frank Vella, CEO of Constant Contact, to talk about the real grind of small business ownership. They get into why artificial intelligence is the ultimate equalizer for small teams and how shifting your mindset from doing marketing to simply telling your story changes everything.‎Best Moments:(02:30) Frank shares his first jobs working at a carnival and getting fired from KFC for eating too much chicken(03:30) Why AI is the single biggest advantage small businesses have ever had to compete against massive companies(06:48) The biggest mistake small business owners make when trying to take on the entire burden of marketing themselves(09:48) How shifting the focus from marketing to simply telling your story completely changes the dynamic for business owners(11:00) A surprising stat showing that 68 percent of small businesses plan to increase their marketing spend despite inflation fears(15:36) Frank gives his top career advice on capitalizing on opportunities and acting like you already have the promotion you want.‎Check out Jay's YOUTUBE Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@schwedelsonCheck out Jay's TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@schwedelsonCheck Out Jay's INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/jayschwedelson/ㅤPre-order Jay Schwedelson's new book, Stupider People Have Done It (out April 21, 2026). All net proceeds are donated to The V Foundation for Cancer Research—let's kick cancer's butt: https://www.amazon.com/Stupider-People-Have-Done-Marketing/dp/1637635206