Explore every episode of the podcast Your Digital Marketing Coach with Neal Schaffer
Dive into the complete episode list for Your Digital Marketing Coach with Neal Schaffer. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Title
Pub. Date
Duration
How AI Forced Me to Rewrite My Entire LinkedIn Strategy
06 Jan 2026
00:19:18
Note: This is Episode 442, published January 6, 2026.
You published a book, it hit #1, and the reviews were phenomenal. In the digital marketing world, that’s usually where you take a victory lap. But then the AI revolution happened. Over the last year, the fundamental ways we build relationships and create content on LinkedIn have shifted so dramatically that I knew a simple "tweak" wouldn't cut it.
I’ve spent the last several months obsessively updating Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth to reflect the 2026 landscape. This isn't just a minor update—it's a 70% expansion featuring five entirely new chapters. In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the exact strategies I added to help you stay visible, professional, and profitable.
Tune in to discover:
The AI "Ask Neal" Framework: My exact process for creating AI content that actually resonates with humans.
The CRM Solution: Why your LinkedIn inbox is a "black hole" and how to fix it with a personal CRM system.
Paid vs. Free: A definitive breakdown of when you should pay for Premium and when you should save your money.
Evergreen ROI: Real-world case studies of professionals who turned simple profile optimizations into five-figure income shifts.
Key Highlights:
[03:25] The Decision Tree: How to choose between LinkedIn Free, Premium, and Sales Navigator.
[04:40] Content Formats: Why some "tried and true" posts are now being deprioritized by the algorithm.
[05:55] Beyond Robotic AI: Using headshot generators and LLMs to enhance—not replace—your personal brand.
[07:20] The DM Epiphany: Why your next big opportunity is likely already buried in your inbox.
[13:10] Expert Endorsements: Why industry leaders like Joe Pulizzi and Jon Ferrara consider this a "Masterclass."
Most people are still "chatting" with AI. They put in a prompt, they get an answer, and they move on. But while the rest of the world is dabbling, the top 1% of marketers are building Agentic Workflows. They aren't just using AI to write; they are using it to act.
Today, I’m joined by Matt Collette, founder of Sequencr.ai. Matt has a background at Ogilvy and Edelman, and he’s here to show us how to move from being an AI novice to an AI architect. We’re talking about the "Micro-Agency of One"—a way to use autonomous agents to scale your output and strategy without ever hiring a team.
Tune in to discover:
The Expert Gap: Why 80% of marketers are "dabblers" and how to join the expert tier.
Instruction Layering: The secret to using separate files to hardcode logic into your AI agents.
Autonomous Research: Why tools like Manus.im are the new gold standard for deep business analysis.
The Synthetic Audience Hack: How to use the Code Interpreter to "game out" your marketing strategy across dozens of segments in seconds.
Key Highlights:
[08:15] Why most users are severely under-utilizing Gen AI.
[16:40] Chat Hygiene: How to prevent your AI from getting "confused" over time.
[22:10] Creating "If-Then" logic for reliable marketing execution.
[36:20] Using Code Interpreter to scale your message testing 50x.
[42:15] The 2026 Edge: How to maintain strategic differentiation in an AI world.
I Just Solved Marketing's Biggest Time-Waster (12 Curated Marketing Agency Directories)
04 Sep 2025
00:21:17
Tired of spending hours researching agencies only to end up more confused than when you started? In this episode, I reveal my solution to one of marketing's biggest time-wasters: finding the right agency partner.
After years of getting asked "Neal, who would you recommend?" for everything from SEO to video production, I decided to do something about it. I partnered with Clutch, the leading B2B service provider platform, to personally curate 12 specialized directories of agencies I actually recommend.
These aren't just random lists—each directory has been carefully vetted based on proven results, verified client feedback, and deep expertise. Whether you're a startup with a limited budget or an enterprise brand with complex needs, there's a trusted partner for you.
What You'll Learn:
Why agency selection has become such a major pain point for marketers
How my dual role as Fractional CMO shaped my approach to these directories
The 12 specialized categories and what makes each one unique
My personal curation process and selection criteria
How to use these directories to save time and reduce risk in your agency partnerships
What makes this partnership with Clutch different from typical agency lists
The 12 Curated Directories:
✅ Top Digital Marketing Agencies
✅ Best SEO Companies
✅ Leading AI Development Companies
✅ Creative Video Production Agencies
✅ Strategic Social Media Marketing Agencies
✅ Recommended Lead Generation Partners
✅ Trusted Ecommerce Development Companies
✅ Specialized WordPress Development Companies
✅ Expert Content Marketing Firms
✅ Proven Email Marketing Agencies
✅ Influential Influencer Marketing Agencies
✅ Preferred Facebook Advertising Partners
Key Takeaways:
Great agency partnerships can be transformational, but poor fits waste time and money
Starting with vetted lists dramatically improves your chances of finding the right partner
These directories include global options across different price points and specialties
The lists are living resources that I'll be updating as the industry evolves
Unleash your potential and soar to new heights in the world of entrepreneurship, salesmanship, and marketing, as we unravel the secret weapon - personal branding. We're not just spouting theory here; we're diving headfirst into the 15 key elements of a personal brand, running the gamut from the Four C's to the Five P's, and even the less heard of Three A's. We'll also shed light on the silent mover and shaker in any organization - internal employer branding - and its surprising connection with personal branding.
We're not stopping there. Together, we'll dissect various models of personal branding, and discover how you can make them work for you, whether you're an entrepreneur, salesperson, or marketer. Ever heard of the three A's of altruism? How about the eight laws as proposed by some of the leading experts in this field? We'll delve into all that and more, the importance of purpose, brand promise, perspective and even share our own take on what constitutes the core elements of a personal brand.
And the cherry on top? We're taking you behind the curtain of some of the biggest brands out there, like Wendy's edgy social media persona, Dove's celebration of real beauty, and Patagonia's love for the planet. We'll examine how they use their brand voice to differentiate themselves and build trust. Then, we'll turn the spotlight on you to help you build your personal brand, starting with visibility and digital presence. We'll explore various platforms and types of content you can use to engage your audience and build a community around your brand. And of course, we won't leave you hanging - we'll provide homework and resources to help you build your personal brand framework.
So gear up and let's embark on this exciting journey of personal branding together.
Automated vs. Live Webinars: Are Live Webinars Really Better?
26 Oct 2023
00:48:33
Prepare to be captivated as we delve into the transformative world of automated webinars with our distinguished guest, Melissa Kwan, the CEO and founder of eWebinar. We're taking you on a deep dive into the exciting realm of digital marketing, exploring how the power of webinars, both live and automated, can revolutionize your business strategy.
Ever wondered why webinars hold such a powerful sway in marketing? Our conversation with Melissa explores the psychology behind their effectiveness and unveils the game-changing potential of repurposing content to engage with diverse consumers. We talk about the art of maintaining customer-centricity even in automated webinars, and how auto-responders and chats can ensure seamless customer experiences.
From choosing the right platform to scripting for maximum engagement, we leave no stone unturned. Melissa shares insightful tips on promoting automated webinars, the dos and don'ts of creating them, and how they can be harnessed to generate leads and enhance your company's reach. Her tips on leveraging authenticity to create impactful webinars are worth their weight in gold. Brace yourselves to reimagine your digital marketing strategy and give your business the boost it needs.
VidSummit 2023 Review: YouTube Secrets and AI Tips for Content Creators
23 Oct 2023
01:35:27
Ever wondered how to level up your YouTube content and garner millions of views? This episode is your guide to mastering the YouTube game, courtesy of my report from attending the recent VidSummit 2023 - the mecca for video marketers and video content creators. Together, we'll unlock the following insights:
Popular YouTuber Preston Plays, who reveals his strategy of treating content creation as a serious business. He underscores the power of process standardization, freeing up precious time for creativity.
Another popular YouTuber, Kimbyrleigha, the pivot queen, divulges how she shifted her channel focus from PopSockets to true crime, drawing in her target avatar.
The AI revolution in video production isn't far behind, with popular YouTuber Kwebbelkop sharing a detailed roadmap of his proprietary AI video tool. This tool has the potential to make content creation 200% cheaper and 12,000% faster.
We also dive into YouTube's exciting new AI tools that promise to ease video creation, transforming the landscape for creators, from YouTube's creator liaison Rene Richie.
Finally, we unravel the secrets of marketing strategies and YouTube growth. Discover how a YouTube-based e-commerce startup hit the nail on the head with its launch strategy.
There's no missing out on our discussion of effective thumbnails and intros, and the role of AI in reshaping content creation. Learn how understanding your audience and optimizing for viewer engagement can skyrocket your channel's success.
From data and metrics to success stories, there's a treasure trove of insights waiting for you. So don't wait, tune in and elevate your YouTube journey with us.
Building a Content Fortress: How to Attract the Right Customers and Boost Conversion Rates with Martin Huntbach and Lyndsay Cambridge
04 Oct 2023
01:01:33
Ever dreamt of having a magnetic pull on your ideal customers while at the same time artfully warding off those who aren’t a fitting match? That’s precisely what this enlightening episode is all about! We're joined by Martin Huntbach and Lyndsay Cambridge, the incredible minds behind the game-changing book and strategy entitled Content Fortress. They let us in on their remarkable journey - from web designers to content marketing strategists - and how they've used content to filter out clients who may not align with their business goals.
Martin and Lyndsay reveal their secret sauce to creating content that not just answers the hard questions, but also sets boundaries and establishes trust. Our conversation dives into the benefits of incorporating structure and process in content creation and how it can make businesses more enjoyable and trustworthy. We also uncover the advantages of educating customers through content, which can dramatically reduce time spent on sales calls while boosting conversion rates.
But that's not all! We plunge into the captivating world of AI and how it can add a unique essence to your content strategy. From its role in content creation and repurposing to its challenges in delivering original content, we leave no stone unturned! So, tune in and let Martin and Lyndsay guide you through the process of constructing a content fortress that aligns perfectly with your business vision. You're about to redefine your content marketing strategy in ways you never imagined!
How to Increase Sales through Creative Marketing Automation
27 Sep 2023
00:48:00
Every company should be investing in marketing automation regardless of industry. But even if you are investing, are you really taking the fullest advantage of it?
As I proceed in writing my dedicated chapter on marketing automation for my upcoming 5th book, I wanted to share with you my thoughts on the power of marketing automation for your business and help you see it in a more strategic manner.
This episode is all about unpacking the myths surrounding marketing automation and revealing its true potential to enhance customer relationships and increase profits. I'll share insights on how to maximize its potential.
Using data from customer life cycle stages, preferences, and locations, I'll guide you in crafting personalized, targeted emails that deliver value to your customers. Discover strategies to increase revenue, meet customer expectations, and positively influence retention. Listen in to understand the power of preference and location targeting, and how to re-engage inactive subscribers.
This episode is a must-listen for marketing professionals, entrepreneurs, or business owners looking to make the most of marketing automation.
Unlocking Your Digital Marketing ROI with Christopher Roberts
20 Sep 2023
00:34:41
Ready to unlock the mysteries of maximizing your digital marketing ROI? Strap in as we bring you an exclusive interview with Christopher Roberts, the General Manager of Cloud Control Media. Christopher lifts the curtain on the agency's proprietary technology and the remarkable role of artificial intelligence in tracking data, all designed to turbo-boost your ROI. Don't miss out on learning how to create an end-to-end tracking system and the wealth of resources Christopher shares to gain a comprehensive understanding of AI's power.
Ever asked yourself how effective your digital content, influencer, or social media marketing is? We explore this question with Christopher, who brings a treasure trove of experience from working on pioneering websites to owning and operating a call center. We venture into how tracking leads, revenues, and conversions can inform your marketing strategies and the indispensable role of technology in doing so. Get ready to discover the secrets of measuring the effectiveness of digital marketing.
We are not stopping at theories. Christopher Roberts throws the spotlight on real-life applications of AI in marketing. Hear the compelling tale of a massive team's effort to build an in-house system to measure the effectiveness of digital content, influence, and ad campaigns. Understand how AI algorithms can draw a roadmap for digital marketing, leaving room for human input to adjust and optimize the plan. Experience the thrill of creating a sales feedback loop that gives clients a competitive edge. This episode is brimming with takeaways you wouldn't want to miss!
Rediscover the Power of Email Marketing: Nurturing Customer Relationships and Maximizing Profits
13 Sep 2023
00:38:16
This episode is another preview of content that will be included in my upcoming book.
Two episodes ago I requested that you rethink your social media marketing with the role of user-generated content in mind.
This episode I want you to rethink the role that email marketing can have in developing communication pathways and ultimately relationships of business value.
Ever thought about the untapped power of email marketing? Buckle up, because in this episode, we're blowing the lid off the incredible potency that rests in your inbox. That's right, email marketing isn't just alive and kicking; it's a heavy hitter, 40 times more potent in snagging you new customers than social media.
We're not just talking about mere promotional tools. We're diving into relationship-building resources. How, you ask? By focusing on consistent communication, lead magnets, content creation, and the art of nurturing the customer journey. The cherry on top? An overview of welcome emails and lead nurture sequences that will leave you awestruck: a whopping 80% open rate and 320% more revenue! But we don't just wow you with figures; we provide you with the hands-on tools to conjure up the perfect welcome email and lead nurture sequences.
But the episode doesn't stop there. We also delve into promotional emails - not just as a sales tool, but as a powerful relationship builder. From boosting brand awareness to generating demand and showcasing your products or services, we cover it all. We also discuss the role of time-bound discount and event emails, and how they can up your customer interaction game. Finally, we reveal how you can make each email experience unique for your customers by leveraging special occasions. So, gear up for a ride that takes email marketing to a whole new level. Let's hit it!
Uncovering the Secret to B2B Growth: Is Social Media the Answer? with Andy Lambert
07 Sep 2023
00:59:09
Ever wished you could tap into the brilliant mind of an author, successful company founder, and and senior manager at a cool company like Adobe? Meet today's guest Andy Lambert, author of Social 3.0.
I was lucky to have Andy share his experiences and insights on B2B growth with me.
Andy schooled us on how to shift our mindset to use social media for growth and the importance of consistent, positive actions in the B2B industry. He gave us an intimate look into launching a social media scheduling platform and how educational content was crucial in generating interest.
Andy didn't hold back on the secrets of his trade. He elaborated on how understanding your customer base's needs can power your business objectives and fuel your content marketing strategy. He emphasized the importance of aligning sales and marketing, and how this harmony could be the key to success for any B2B organization. We also touched on 'dark social' and its role in driving content marketing success, a concept that will have you rethinking your strategy.
In the final part of our discussion, Andy really drove home the value of educational content and how it should be prioritized in budgets. He made a compelling argument about creating demand for the majority of the market, not just the 5% actively looking to buy, and why trust is more important than awareness for conversions. Lastly, we explored the power of word-of-mouth marketing and the importance of building relationships with influencers.
Hearing about Andy's approach to B2B growth was enlightening, and I hope it will be for you too. Tune in to hear all about it.
Reimagine Your Social Media with User-Generated Content
30 Aug 2023
01:04:03
Ready to tap into the power of User-Generated Content (UGC) and revolutionize your social media marketing strategy?
I recorded this episode to flesh out content for a chapter in my upcoming book, so this will also act as a special preview as to what I have been working on.
I'll guide you through the captivating new world of UGC, where engaging TikTok influencers and the rising breed of 'Instagrammable' content creators is becoming the norm. You'll discover why everything from customer selfies to thought leader ads on LinkedIn is now part of the UGC arsenal, and why B2B brands are jumping on this bandwagon.
Ever wondered why 92% of consumers trust UGC more than traditional marketing content? The authenticity and relatability of UGC have a powerful impact on consumers, influencing their purchasing decisions and helping to build meaningful relationships. I've got intriguing statistics to share that shed light on the sway of UGC, and I'll dive into a practical example from the real estate sector to illustrate how UGC can be leveraged effectively in B2B scenarios.
Finally, I’ll share some tried-and-tested strategies to motivate your customers to create UGC, from establishing brand ambassadors to running branded hashtag campaigns. Whether you are a B2B brand or an emerging influencer ready to shine, there's something valuable for everyone in this episode. So, ready to reimagine your social media presence? Let's embark on this exciting journey together in the world of User-Generated Content. Tune in for a treasure trove of insights and actionable advice.
How to Turn Your Blog into a Profitable Business: The 3-Step Process with Graham Robertson
24 Aug 2023
00:44:50
Are you ready to unlock the secrets of turning a passion project into a thriving business? Imagine being at a crossroads in your career, unsure of the next step, and a friend suggests starting a blog. That's how Graham Robertson, founder and CEO of Beloved Brands, began his entrepreneurial journey. Listen in as Graham unfolds his transformative transition from a corporate marketer to an independent brand strategist, leveraging the power of his blog to reach out to an audience that spans across 30 countries.
Graham's voyage of self-discovery began with a blog on WordPress, where he wrote extensively about his passion - marketing. As the blog gained traction, he figured out the importance of strategic writing, niche selection and reader feedback in shaping his content. Delve deeper into the art of identifying your areas of expertise and utilizing guest bloggers to fill your knowledge gaps, as Graham navigates his way through an intricate world of blogging that ultimately led him to a whopping 50,000 monthly visitors.
Graham didn't stop at just blogging; he used his platform to build a business empire. From leveraging SEO and keyword research to boost website traffic, to creating brand funnels, writing and publishing a book, designing templates, and launching an online course, he has done it all. In our conclusive discussion, he sheds light on his process of creating and selling digital products. Get an insider's view of his journey from translating his work from a Mac to PowerPoint, selling templates through WooCommerce, to developing an online course that mirrors his in-person training experience using Thinkific. Buckle up for a roller-coaster ride into Graham Robertson’s world of turning blogs into businesses!
Why CMOs Are Being Replaced by Chief Revenue Officers (And How Marketers Can Survive)
01 Sep 2025
00:33:50
Sales and marketing teams at war? You're not alone. While most companies treat these as separate functions fighting for resources, the winning businesses have cracked the code on true revenue alignment.
In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with A. Lee Judge, author of "CASH" and founder of Content Monster, who reveals the uncomfortable truth about why some companies are eliminating CMO positions entirely and replacing them with Chief Revenue Officers. But it's not what you think.
Lee, who uniquely served as both a marketer managing Salesforce and a bridge between warring departments, shares the simple meeting strategy that transformed competing teams into unified revenue machines. You'll discover the specific metrics that keep marketers employed when budget cuts come, and why learning to "speak sales language" isn't just helpful—it's survival.
Key Takeaways:
Why the traditional marketing "handoff" to sales is dead (and what replaces it)
The sports team analogy that will change how you view sales and marketing forever
How to reverse-engineer closed deals to discover what marketing actually works
The meeting hack that eliminates silos and creates alignment overnight
Specific revenue-focused KPIs that prove marketing's worth to the C-suite
Why 80% of the customer journey happens before sales gets involved
Whether you're running a team of 2 or 200, the principles Lee shares about creating feedback loops, shared metrics, and collaborative systems will transform how you think about growing your business. Perfect for marketing professionals, entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone tired of internal battles hurting their bottom line.
Warning: This episode challenges everything most businesses believe about sales and marketing departments. Listen only if you're ready to revolutionize your revenue approach.
Guest Resources:
A. Lee Judge's book "CASH: The 4 Keys to Better Sales, Smarter Marketing, and a Supercharged Revenue Machine" - Available on Amazon
What do you do after you publish 2 books on LinkedIn but would rather work on new content rather than revise the older books?
You offer a free update on LinkedIn best practices.
With that thought, my free ebook, Maximizing LinkedIn for Business, was born.
Now in its 4th edition, which I am announcing with this podcast episode, this is a 55-page PDF chock full of recommendations and best practices that has become a labor of love to revise annually to make sure it is even more up-to-date than a published book, which aren't as frequently updated.
This year I decided to focus on creating two new chapters:
1️⃣ The Art of LinkedIn Content - helping you understand and create the new types of content that appear to get the most visibility in the LinkedIn feed
2️⃣ How to Leverage A.I. Specifically for LinkedIn - introducing the tools and processes that I use to inspire you to do more on LinkedIn
If you were curious the chapter I removed to make way for the new chapters is:
LinkedIn Automation: I included it because I know a lot of people to continue to use it, but I have also seen many people end up in LinkedIn Jail as a result. Why not spend the time in content creation and actually engaging with others and developing real relationships?
The Secrets to Successful Social Selling with Jon Ferrara of Nimble
09 Aug 2023
01:05:14
Highlighting an industry trailblazer, I'm honored to host Jon Ferrara, the tech visionary behind Goldmine, once the largest CRM in the world, and Nimble, the pioneer of social CRMs. Buckle up as Jon takes us on a journey exploring how to turn social media into a goldmine of sales leads, stake your claim with influencers, and leverage social media to resonate with your audience.
Strap yourself in for an expedition into the world of relationships - building, scaling, and managing them effectively over time. Jon underscores the lifeblood of purpose in our ventures, and how digital platforms can be harnessed to amplify our humanity and carve out a robust brand. We delve into the promise of technology to bolster business strategies, and the crucial need to be authentic in engagements.
As we round up, Jon gifts us with his wisdom on establishing business habits and workflows, emphasizing the crucial role of customer feedback in product evolution. We explore the intersection of social selling and influencer marketing and the power they wield in scaling businesses. This episode, brimming with invaluable tips and strategies, is your key to unlocking the potential of social selling and digital marketing.
Do you feel there's a missing link in your marketing strategy? It might be time to incorporate 'Ikigai,' a Japanese concept that brings purpose and meticulous precision into the equation. I'm here to show you how focusing on the details, embracing who you are, and finding joy in the little things can contribute to your professional success.
In this intimate solo episode, we'll unlock the meaning of 'Ikigai' and explore how it's been a driving force in my life and career. Drawing from my 15 years of living and working in Japan, I'll share tales of sushi chefs striving for perfection and question how your purpose or mission manifests in your content. Whether you're a marketer, entrepreneur, or content creator, it's time to discover your Ikigai and take a new purpose-driven approach to marketing.
Are you ready to grow? Let's get started.
Links:
Awakening Your Ikigai: How the Japanese Wake Up to Joy and Purpose Every Day by Ken Mogi: https://amzn.to/47kKMwA [affiliate]
Exploring the Convergence of Podcasting & YouTube with Vyyyper from vidIQ
29 Jul 2023
00:43:31
What happens when the lines between podcasting and YouTube start to blur? Join me as I sit down with Vyyyper - The Man About Tech, from vidIQ, as we venture into this buzzing convergence. Vyyyper, a renowned YouTube expert, generously offers his insights drawn from his transformative journey from a tech content creator to an executive social media producer at vidIQ. His story is a testament to the power of determination and the importance of sharing knowledge - a true inspiration for all content creators.
Podcasting on YouTube might seem like uncharted territory, but with Vyyyper's guidance, you'll unravel the intricacies of this exciting medium. We delve into the art of creating content that resonates, navigating through the changing landscape shaped by platforms like TikTok. Discover the true potential of authenticity in content creation, and why you don't need top-tier gear to succeed. We further explore strategies to optimize podcasts on YouTube, making them valuable for listeners and successful in the algorithm.
The conversation takes a turn towards repurposing content and understanding YouTube's algorithm, vital aspects for content creators. Vyyyper uncovers the potential of creating multiple formats from a single source, maximizing reach, and humanizing brands on YouTube. We wrap up with an introduction to vidIQ's game-changing AI Content Generator.
Join us in this enlightening journey, where Vyyyper paints a vivid picture of the future of podcasting and YouTube, loaded with a wealth of practical advice that you cannot afford to miss. Tune in to this episode - a goldmine of insights from the man who’s been there and done that.
Revolutionizing Digital Marketing with Marketing Containers: A Strategic Approach to Success
19 Jul 2023
00:18:26
Ever feel like your digital marketing efforts are scattered all over the place? I'm here to share a groundbreaking concept called marketing containers that will revolutionize your approach to content marketing, enhancing your strategies and optimizing your resources. Encapsulating my professional experiences and insights, I'll reveal why these containers are the future of strategic marketing and how they connect with my fifth book and the SES framework I introduced to you in episode #326.
Let's shape your marketing campaigns and overall operations in a more organized, strategic way with marketing containers. I'll guide you on creating these containers and subcontainers, helping you prioritize your digital marketing activities and increase efficiency. I'll illustrate this with an example of content buckets - a unique way to create containers for each product and its associated keywords for SEO, PPC, content creation, and social media ads. And here's a fun challenge: come up with your own marketing container strategy and you might just get a shoutout in my upcoming book! Get ready to streamline, strategize, and supersize your marketing success!
Mastering Content Creation: Insights from Melanie Deziel, from Journalism to Digital Marketing
12 Jul 2023
00:35:25
Ever wondered how to brew compelling content that sets you apart? Join me for a riveting conversation with Melanie Deziel, a content wizard who began her journey in journalism and went on to shape the digital marketing world. This episode is loaded with Melanie's intriguing anecdotes - from creating branded content for the Huffington Post and the New York Times to her time as the Director of Creative Strategy at Time Inc. Plus, she recounts the challenging yet triumphant book launch of Content Fuel during a global pandemic.
Melanie shares her ingenious approach to content creation, leveraging AI and chat GPT ideation to keep the content wheel spinning. She gives us a sneak peek into her latest book, Prove It, a manifesto of her belief in earning audience trust through content. We'll explore the idea of content as evidence, validating business claims and fueling digital marketing drives.
Lastly, we delve into the heart of content creation, exploring Melanie's distinct content fuel framework. She underlines the importance of 'focus' and 'format' in the content ideation process, and how the delicate interplay between the two shapes engaging content. We also discuss potential roadblocks to ideation and innovation in companies, and how leaders can catalyze creativity within their teams. Tune in for an enlightening conversation brimming with practical tips and insights. Don't miss it!
The SES Framework: A New Lens for Digital Marketing
06 Jul 2023
00:18:30
What if you could streamline your digital, content, influencer, social media, and marketing strategies with ease?
Join me as I unravel unique frameworks and processes to make this aspect of your business more manageable.
Using insights gathered from crafting my upcoming fifth book, I want to share with you not just theories, but practical, implementable strategies to help you navigate the digital marketing maze.
Ever heard of the SES framework for digital marketing?
Or the Digital Relationships Funnel?
Let's explore how these game-changing ideas can help your business convert prospects into advocates, using the trifecta of search, email, and social media. And it doesn't end there! We'll be uncovering how organic and paid social media, along with influencer marketing and strategic website content, play pivotal roles in this conversion process. Tune in for an enlightening conversation that will revolutionize how you approach your digital marketing strategy. Be ready to take notes, you won't want to miss it!
Party Your Way to Success: Practical Social Media Marketing Strategies with Jason McDonald
28 Jun 2023
00:45:10
Imagine attending a party that teaches you the ins and outs of social media marketing. That's exactly what we explore in our conversation with Jason McDonald, best-selling author of digital marketing and internet marketing workbooks. Jason shares his expertise on SEO, social media, and ads, as well as his journey from working in the embedded systems industry to helping small businesses succeed online. Plus, we dive into his fascinating experience creating a coloring book about Donald Trump.
We discuss Jason's party analogy and how it can be applied to both B2B and B2C marketing strategies. Learn how to approach social media marketing like attending a party and figure out what kind of party you should be throwing. We also break down the complex world of technical analysis, making it simple and accessible for small business owners. Discover the importance of understanding the big picture, sequencing tasks, and translating tech jargon into terms that make sense to marketers.
Finally, we chat about promoting Jason McDonald's books and how businesses can find success in digital marketing. Jason shares some valuable resources for those who may not have the means to purchase his books, and he invites you to join his Digital First group coaching membership community. Don't miss this engaging and insightful conversation with Jason McDonald that will surely spark some new ideas for your marketing strategies. Join us and get ready to party your way to social media marketing success!
LinkedIn Creator Mode: Your Killer Secret Weapon for LinkedIn Growth
21 Jun 2023
00:25:14
Ready to unlock the full potential of LinkedIn Creator Mode and skyrocket your reach? I've got you covered with a game-changing episode that reveals how this powerful, yet underutilized feature can help you broaden your reach, grow your network, and establish thought leadership. As a business owner, entrepreneur, or content creator, you'll get a step-by-step tutorial on activating and maximizing LinkedIn Creator Mode, so you can be on your way to dominating the platform!
As I walk you through this amazing feature, we'll share tips on how to create hashtags, add custom website links, feature lead magnets and activity, and even host LinkedIn Live events. You'll discover how to leverage StreamYard for promoting live streams on LinkedIn and how to utilize the LinkedIn newsletter feature for further reach. Plus, learn how to get subscribers straight from your profile and boost your visibility. Don't miss this opportunity to learn about one of LinkedIn's best new features in years and get ready to make your mark on the platform!
Using Behavioral Science in Marketing [Nancy Harhut Interview]
14 Jun 2023
00:40:04
Discover the power of psychological principles in marketing as we chat with Nancy Harhut, author of "Using Behavioral Science in Marketing." Uncover why C-suite executives are recognizing the immense potential of incorporating behavioral science into their strategies and how you can stay ahead of the curve.
From leveraging the magnetic middle to exploring choice architecture, we discuss practical ways to tap into the hardwired behaviors and decision-making processes of your customers. By utilizing persuasive language, you'll learn how to craft content that captures your audience's attention and drives them to engage with your brand. Plus, hear about my experience using choice architecture to boost conversions significantly.
As the future of artificial intelligence continues to intersect with behavioral science, Nancy sheds light on how AI can enhance your marketing efforts. We delve into the use of AI for crafting compelling copy while stressing the importance of human interaction in closing sales. Don't miss this enlightening conversation with expert Nancy Harhut and elevate your marketing game by harnessing the power of behavioral science.
The $0 Content Strategy That Generated 2.5 Million Reach (Employee Creator Secrets)
28 Aug 2025
00:20:09
Struggling to compete with content creators for attention on social media? What if I told you that one innovative company decided to turn their entire team into creators instead of hiring expensive influencers?
In this revealing episode, I break down how Buffer revolutionized employee advocacy by moving beyond "please share our company posts" to "please build your own personal brand." The results? 90% participation, over 2.5 million total reach, and a cultural shift that's making competitors take notice.
This isn't your typical employee advocacy program - it's the future of user-generated content strategy, and it perfectly illustrates the Platform Authentic Content concepts from my book Digital Threads.
In this episode, you'll discover:
✅ Why traditional employee advocacy programs fail (and what Buffer did differently)
✅ The three-pillar system Buffer used: Slack community, resource hub, and Creator Café workshops
✅ How to shift from promotional mindset to authentic personal brand building
✅ Why empowering employees as creators beats hiring external influencers
✅ The impressive results: 4,100+ posts, 4M impressions, and measurable confidence growth
✅ How this strategy creates authentic brand advocates who understand the creator struggle
✅ Practical steps to implement this with just 3-5 employees (you don't need Buffer's resources)
Perfect for: Entrepreneurs and small business owners looking for authentic content strategies, marketers struggling with creator economy competition, and business leaders wanting to build stronger employer branding while scaling content creation.
Key Takeaway: Instead of competing with content creators, smart companies are creating their own creators from within - turning employees into authentic brand advocates while building their personal brands.
AI is Transforming Digital Marketing - Here's What You Should Know NOW!
07 Jun 2023
00:31:53
What if AI could be the game-changer you need to revolutionize your digital marketing strategy? In this captivating episode, I unlock the power of AI and its potential to transform the way businesses and individuals operate. Listen closely to learn how a new generation of doing things stacks up against traditional marketing methods. I also dive into the world of AI-powered virtual assistants, where your imagination is the only limit to what you can achieve.
As we continue to explore the wonders of AI, I examine its role in content creation. Discover how generative AI can be used to not only improve existing content but also generate fresh ideas and build content outlines. Say goodbye to writer's block and learn how AI can speed up content generation, optimize your content for SEO, and even create custom images. Plus, I'll discuss the importance of establishing an AI policy and how to seamlessly integrate AI into your content creation process.
But why stop there? In the final segment of this episode, I delve into the limitless potential of AI in marketing tools. Learn how AI can forecast outcomes, enhance customer service, and personalize marketing efforts based on purchase history. I even touch on AI's role in pay-per-click ad management, dynamic pricing, marketing automation, image recognition, social listening, and sentiment analysis. With invaluable advice on how to best harness the power of AI to grow your business, this episode is an absolute must-listen for digital marketers and entrepreneurs alike.
A.I. tools mentioned in this video: (yes, affiliate links, but click through for special offers!)
How to Build an Army of Irrationally Loyal Fans to Your Brand [Deb Gabor Interview]
31 May 2023
00:57:17
Imagine building an army of irrationally loyal fans for your brand, fans who keep coming back for more and help your business thrive in today's competitive marketplace. In our captivating conversation with branding expert and author Deb Gabor, we discuss just that - the secrets to turning customers into devoted followers and her latest book, 'Person-Ality Cultivate Your Human Authority to Ignite Irrational Brand Loyalty'.
Deb's journey from working at AT&T Bell Labs and other technology startups to becoming an accidental entrepreneur is both fascinating and inspiring. We dive deep into the concept of irrational loyalty, the Brand Values Pyramid, and the four-point formula for creating a winning brand strategy. Deb also shares her passion for working with unsexy brands in unsexy categories, and the importance of branding in the B2B world for building strong connections with clients.
We even explore the potential of AI in marketing and branding, and whether it could ever replace the human touch when it comes to creating content that resonates with customers. So, tune in and discover how to elevate your brand strategy, hack Maslow's hierarchy, and create a loyal fan base eager to stand by your brand!
How to Analyze Marketing Data To Improve Your ROI [Emma Lo Russo Interview]
17 May 2023
00:40:48
Has your marketing data been feeling a little flat?
Are you looking for ways to increase your ROI?
Look no further!
In this interview with the digital marketing analytics and ROI dashboard Digivizer CEO and co-founder, Emma Lo Russo, we'll show you 3 actionable strategies to help you analyze your marketing data and maximize your return on investment.
Learn how to:
attract quality web traffic to your site, improve your website ranking and optimize your SEO.
boost paid advertising performance and maximize your ROAS.
optimize your SEO position by harnessing the search terms your customers are using.
So don't delay - tune in to learn how to better maximize your marketing data today!
In this episode of the Your Digital Marketing Coach podcast, I'm diving deep into the world of podcasting and exploring the true value it can bring to your business!
Podcasting isn't just about monetizing your content; it's about building relationships, growing your audience, and establishing yourself as an authority in your niche.
I'll discuss the various ways you can measure the ROI of your podcast, from increased brand awareness to networking opportunities and more. Plus, I'll share some insider tips on how to maximize your podcast's potential for success.
Don't miss this insightful conversation that will change the way you think about podcasting and its impact on your business.
Building a Sustainable Marketing Machine for Small Businesses: Expert Advice [Andrew Schulkind Interview]
03 May 2023
00:47:37
In this episode I interview Andrew Schulkind, the author of "Marketing for Small B2B Businesses: How Content Creates Marketing Muscle and Powers Traditional and Digital Marketing."
The episode focuses on building a sustainable marketing machine for small businesses, with a particular emphasis on B2B businesses.
Andrew shares his expertise in working with small businesses and provides actionable advice for creating effective content marketing strategies.
The conversation covers topics such as the importance of audience-centric content and the role of AI in content creation.
Show Notes
Andrew's background in video [00:02:08] Andrew talks about his background in video and how his company, Indigo, evolved from video to web to content marketing.
Andrew's background in video and evolution to content marketing [00:04:38] Andrew talks about his background in video and how his company, Indigo, evolved from video to web to content marketing.
Definition of small businesses [00:06:10] Andrew defines small businesses as companies with under 100 employees or under $100 million in sales.
Definition of small businesses [00:08:11] Neil and Andrew discuss the definition of small businesses, which Andrew defines as companies with under 100 employees or under $100 million in sales.
Small Business Definition [00:08:40] Andrew Schoen defines small businesses as companies with under 100 employees or under $100 million in sales.
Writing a Book [00:09:54] Andrew Schoen talks about how he was approached by a publishing company to write a book and the process of writing it.
Marketing Mindset [00:14:47] Andrew Schoen emphasizes the importance of understanding that marketing is not about you, but about demonstrating that you understand the problem your target audience is experiencing and creating content that provides value to them.
The Importance of Audience-Centric Content [00:16:25] The speakers discuss the common mistake of companies creating company-centric content instead of audience-centric content, and the importance of focusing on the end customer's needs.
Challenges of Measuring ROI and Attribution [00:18:17] The speakers talk about the challenges of measuring ROI and attribution in marketing, and how it depends on the management team's expectations and opinions.
Simplifying Marketing for Small Businesses [00:23:20] The guest emphasizes that small business marketers don't need to understand the technical minutiae of websites or copy the social media strategies of national consumer brands. Instead, they need to know how to build successful marketing machines that they can sustain with their available resources.
Building a Sustainable Marketing Machine [00:24:17] Andrew Schoen gives advice on building a sustainable marketing machine for small businesses, including relying on expert
Stop Being a Cheapskate: The Importance of Investing in Marketing
26 Apr 2023
00:13:19
In this podcast episode, I discuss the importance of investing in marketing and not being too frugal with marketing budgets.
I share personal examples of how investing money in the right areas can lead to significant returns in terms of lead generation and business growth.
I emphasize the importance of not being a "cheapskate" in marketing and instead doing smart marketing.
This episode highlights the mindset of how we spend our money and the need to reconstruct a marketing budget on a year-to-year basis.
TIMESTAMPS
Investing in Marketing [00:01:14] I share personal examples of how investing a little more money in marketing tools and webinars can lead to significant returns in terms of lead generation and business growth.
Importance of AI in Marketing [00:04:09] I emphasize the importance of investing in marketing tools that incorporate AI, as almost every marketing tool is including some form of AI into their tool.
Influencer Marketing [00:06:44] I discusses the importance of investing in influencer marketing and not being too stingy with compensation for influencers. I suggest that companies should offer influencers something of value, such as free use of their tool, in exchange for promoting their product.
Investing in Marketing Tools [00:10:22] I emphasize the importance of investing in marketing tools and AI to help scale and grow a business.
The Conversion Code: Real Step-by-Step Advice for Sales-Focused Marketing [Chris Smith Interview]
20 Apr 2023
00:44:01
In this episode of the Your Digital Marketing Coach podcast, I interview Chris Smith, author of The Conversion Code, about implementing a sales-focused marketing strategy.
We discuss the science behind the convergence of sales and marketing and provide real step-by-step advice for success.
Chris emphasizes the importance of having a well-organized website and landing pages, lead follow-up, and inside sales.
He also stresses the significance of technology in scaling marketing strategies and encourages executives to support their employees in conducting experiments and taking risks.
*Chris Smith's Background [00:04:30]* Chris Smith talks about his background in sales and marketing, starting in the boiler room doing phone sales for telemarketing companies.
*The Early Days of Social Media [00:08:38]* Chris Smith talks about how he became influential in the real estate industry through social media and how the Wall Street Journal offered him $5000 a month to advertise on his blog.
*The Importance of Listening in Content Marketing [00:09:37]* I discuss with Chris Smith the importance of listening more than speaking in content marketing and he shares a story about how asking questions can lead to success.
*The Importance of Digital Marketing Fundamentals [00:16:25]* Chris Smith and I discuss the importance of having digital marketing fundamentals in place before implementing more advanced strategies, and how many companies still struggle with the basics.
*The Importance of Website and Sales Process [00:16:44]* Chris Smith emphasizes the importance of having a clean website and a well-structured sales process before investing in marketing.
*The Science of Marketing and Sales [00:18:03]* Chris Smith talks about his personal approach to marketing and sales, which involves experimenting and testing different strategies to see what works.
*Challenges of Large Companies [00:23:33]* Chris Smith and I discuss the challenges that large companies face when it comes to implementing new marketing and sales strategies, and the importance of having a supportive executive team.
*Lead Follow Up [00:25:06]* Chris Smith discusses the importance of lead follow up and shares tips on how to improve lead conversion rates, including speed to lead and personalization.
*Inside Sales [00:29:58]* Chris Smith defines insi
The creator economy has unleashed a new generation of creators who seek to become niche experts.
While having niche expertise in an industry can be helpful to your business if you want to market in that industry, does hiring a niche expert to help with your marketing make sense?
On the other hand, what is the holistic marketing concept, and how does working with a holistic marketing expert differ from working with a niche expert?
These are the questions I will answer based on my own experience in helping companies and transitioning from one to the other - you'll find out all about it by listening to the end!
How to Develop a B2B Influencer Marketing Program [Tim Williams Interview]
06 Apr 2023
01:04:05
One might argue that influencer marketing should be an even more important marketing channel for B2B brands, but most simply misunderstand what is potentially the most powerful marketing channel for them.
From leveraging employees as internal influencers to properly collaborating with external influencers, influencer marketing can have a profound impact on B2B businesses when done right.
So how do you best DO B2B influencer marketing?
I can't think of anyone in the world to more knowledgable about B2B influencer marketing than Tim Williams, CEO of Onalytica.
Together we will discuss the following:
- ROI of B2B Influencer Marketing - Best ways to activate B2B Creators - What B2B Creators are looking for when partnering with brands - How to connect your Employee Advocacy & Influencer Marketing programs - How to measure influencer marketing success
I hope you can join us for what should be a profoundly educational and invaluable use of your time!
How $25 Cookies Generated $200 Million in Sales (Gift-Based Marketing Strategy)
25 Aug 2025
00:37:34
Tired of cold emails that get ignored? What if I told you that sending gourmet cookies could be more effective than your entire digital marketing budget?
In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Corey Quinn, former CMO at Scorpion and author of “Anyone Not Everyone,” who reveals how gift-based outreach became their company’s #1 sales channel - outperforming a $6 million marketing budget that included ads, content, and 100 annual events.
Corey shares the exact strategy that helped close seven-figure deals with brands like Lululemon, ReMax, and Hyundai, and how his team scaled this approach to send 15,000+ gifts annually while growing the company to $200 million in revenue.
In this episode, you’ll discover:
✅ Why traditional cold outreach fails (and the psychology behind gift-based marketing)
✅ The “unique, striking, impression” framework for choosing the perfect business gifts
✅ How to build a high-quality prospect list that actually converts (it’s not about volume)
✅ The 6-step follow-up system that turns gift recipients into million-dollar clients
✅ Why timing is everything (and when to call after your gift arrives)
✅ The long-term strategy of consistent gifting that beats one-off campaigns
✅ Real case studies: From overnight FedEx cookies to custom embroidered pillows
Perfect for: Entrepreneurs and small business owners struggling with lead generation, content creators looking to monetize their audience through B2B services, and anyone tired of competing in the crowded digital marketing space.
Key Takeaway: Sometimes the most effective marketing strategy isn’t digital at all - it’s deeply personal and surprisingly analog.
Guest Bio: Corey Quinn is a sales and marketing expert who spent 19 consecutive quarters as the top producer at a digital agency before becoming CMO at Scorpion, where he helped scale the company to $200 million. He’s the author of “Anyone Not Everyone” and specializes in helping businesses escape the generalist trap through deep specialization and relationship-driven marketing.
Free Resource: Listeners can get Corey’s audiobook “Anyone Not Everyone” plus workbook, videos, and templates at anyonenoteveryone.com
Subscribe to the Your Digital Marketing Coach podcast for weekly insights on building and growing your business through strategic digital marketing.
Are you looking to breathe some new air into your digital marketing?
Want to create content that can truly be leveraged across EVERY social media and evergreen content platform?
Do you want to have more FUN with your content and create a community revolving around it and your content experience?
A LOT has been said about live streaming, but I don't think it has ever been described in the way that I have experienced and learned over the last few weeks...
If you have an interest in content marketing, you might know who Joe Pulizzi is and his absolute authority on the subject.
But just in case, Joe is considered the legitimate Godfather of Content Marketing because he is the:
Founder of Content Marketing Institute
Founder of Content Marketing World
Author of several content marketing books, including the recently revised Epic Content Marketing
He also recently founded the Creator Economy Expo
But Joe is not going to give you the content marketing advice that you already know. On the contrary, Joe is going to teach you some unconventional ways of thinking about content marketing.
You've heard it a million times: you need to do marketing campaigns if you want your business to grow.
But what if I told you that's not actually true?
That focusing on something else instead could lead to even better results?
Listen to this episode to find out what that "something else" is.
Specifically I will be discussing the ineffectiveness of marketing campaigns and suggesting an experimental approach to marketing.
I emphasize the importance of a data-driven approach to marketing and experimenting with different channels, mediums, and influencers to achieve better results.
I also discuss the PDCA approach to marketing, which emphasizes planning, doing, checking, and acting upon experiments to achieve continuous improvement.
I conclude by encouraging marketers to focus on continuous improvement and adapting to changes in social media platforms and algorithms.
This episode provides valuable insights for marketers, entrepreneurs, business owners, and content creators.
Key Highlights
**Marketing Campaigns [00:00:01]** As a marketing professional, I have come to realize that traditional marketing campaigns are often outdated and ineffective. That's why I believe a data-driven approach to marketing is necessary to stay ahead of the competition.
**PDCA Approach to Marketing [00:04:46]** I have found that the PDCA (Plan-Do-Check-Act) approach to marketing is a great way to conduct experiments and continuously improve marketing strategies. By following this approach, I can make data-driven decisions and adjust my marketing tactics accordingly.
**Data-Driven Experiments [00:07:31]** In my experience, conducting data-driven experiments across different marketing channels, mediums, and influencers is crucial to achieving better results than traditional marketing campaigns. By analyzing the data, I can identify what works and what doesn't, and adjust my strategies accordingly.
**Data-Driven Marketing [00:10:16]** I cannot stress enough the importance of a data-driven approach to marketing. By experimenting with different channels, mediums, and influencers, and shifting resources based on data, I can ensure that my marketing efforts are effective and efficient.
**Conclusion [00:11:15]** To summarize, a data-driven approach to marketing is necessary to stay ahead of the competition.
Notable Quotes
Here's the thing, I don't believe in campaigns, there is nothing to share. And I thought a lot about this. And I thought maybe I'm crazy that I don't have this campaign mindset. Now, I am not a traditional marketer.
The notion of a campaign falls back into that traditional marketing. And it's disruptive in nature, right? It's something that existed before social media.
There are something called launches, a launch might be considered a campaign, but the idea is you are a new brand, or you're
How to Grow Your Business with High Velocity Digital Marketing [Steven Mark Kahan Interview]
09 Mar 2023
00:35:59
67 percent of B2B buyers no longer prefer to interact with sales representatives when making purchasing decisions. Gathering information online is now the hallmark of the buying process.
This is great background for today's interview with Steven Mark Kahan, author of High Velocity Digital Marketing, who has successfully helped grow seven startup companies from early stage to going public or being sold, resulting in $5 billion in shareholder value. Based on his recent $1.4 billion dollar exit with cybersecurity firm, Thycotic, he will share the inside secrets of how to build a sales and marketing strategy that delivers breakthrough revenue growth –in brutally competitive markets, including:
•The modern digital marketing strategies he recommends to his clients - that any company can replicate •Easy-to-implement strategies for getting found online, providing the most critical information, and getting buyers to purchase—fast.
While the interview is focused on B2B, the advice is equally applicable to B2C, so make sure you tune in!
Key Highlights
[02:02] Introduction of Podcast Guest, Steven Mark Kahan
[04:03] Steven's Journey to Digital Marketing
[05:11] Why Steven Wrote High-Velocity Digital Marketing
[07:08] The Importance of the Foundations of Digital Marketing
[10:01] Ask the Right Questions!
[14:06] Strengthening Your Digital Marketing Foundation
[18:03] 3 Ways Steven Convince Brands to Invest in Content that Fill In Gaps
[22:27] The Analogy of How People Buy Today
[24:43] High-Velocity Tips from Steven
[28:32] Think About Velocity!
[31:36] Final Thoughts
[32:42] Connect With Steven
Notable Quotes
Certainly the way in which people buy today is they buy based on the research they do online. So if you're going to market today, digital is the way you have to go.
Beyond just not talking to customers enough, it's really defining who your ideal target buyer is in detail, such that you're able to effectively target your digital programs to them. And then, of course, it's understanding the full context of their world.
What are these buyers that you're targeting digitally, they're not looking really for how creative or clever your marketing department is, what they're looking for, is to work with companies that understand them, that empathize with them.
A lot of it then comes to how you utilize that information to create your value proposition to ensure that it is differentiated, that you're able to communicate that unique value perfectly to that target buyer.
It was really how you use that information to incorporate it within your messaging, and then how you also use that information in the content that you create across the buyers journey.
You got to be great online, if you want to consistently grow revenue for sure. And Google is key.
Human x A.I. : Unleashing the Power of A.I. in Marketing [Greg Starling Interview]
02 Mar 2023
00:50:09
Following up on my report from the Generative AI conference, today's guest has transformed a social media dashboard into becoming an AI ghostwriter for digital and social media marketing.
Meet Greg Starling, Head of the Innovation Labs at Tailwind, who is helping to create a new generative AI product there.
- Using AI to brainstorm ideas - Using AI to streamline marketing processes - When & how to partner with AI for maximum effectiveness
Take a deep dive into A.I. and how you can better leverage it for your business.
Key Highlights
[03:53] Introduction of Podcast Guest, Greg Starling
[07:51] How Greg Got Into the AI Industry
[10:30] Pushing AI Into Create Tools
[12:41] Getting the Right Queries and Prompts
[18:46] Areas Where Tailwind Has Implemented AI
[22:39] Transition from Social Media Dashboard to AI Marketing Tool
[23:48] Leveraging the AI Engine
[28:54] Streamling AI Into the Marketing Process
[33:19] Greg's Quick Tip on Writing Summary
[34:37] Where to Start the Process of Using AI?
[40:01] Where GPT Technology Is Going?
[45:08] Connect With Greg
Notable Quotes
People just think chat GPT is only chat GPT When, at the end of the day, you're gonna get something very generic from it, as you said, compared to other tools that are that are putting, you know, secret sauces on top of it.
Anywhere where you're writing content that you want to that you're using to try to market yourself market your brand, we probably have some AI assistance there that could that can move you along quicker.
We're trying to do things where we can give you a full on marketing plan, but then help you execute that plan with AI.
There's this concept that people romanticize a blank page, people say, Oh, well, there's endless possibilities. But the truth is, a blank page stops people from doing what they need to do.
We're trying to get you off of that blank page, and onto the next step and actually moving forwards, in your kind of marketing process.
I think people who get really good at this will actually replace people who who ignore it or fearful of it, I know a lot of people aren't I get it, but it's not going to you being fearful of it is not going to stop happening. So I think everybody's got to figure out how they can fit in and, and take advantage of it.
Start finding a platform that you like that you trust, that you think has your best interests in mind, and figure out how you can start implementing those into your product.
You need an AI strategy. Even a company like tailwind, had an AI strategy implemented it and you can see what's happened. So every one of us needs to think.
Guest Links:
Greg Starling on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregstarling/
The Future of A.I. is NOW: 15 Takeaways from Jasper's Generative AI Conference
27 Feb 2023
00:53:35
The use of AI in marketing and business in general is evolving much quicker than you might think. I had a chance to attend Jasper's Generative AI conference in San Francisco this month and wanted to share with you how far things are progressing and the impact it is already having on marketing and business.
Tune in and I trust that you will also come to the same understanding that the future of A.I. is now and that is not a question of experimentation but of serious strategizing and implementation.
[06:00] Turning Points that Defined Modern Business
[06:52] Generative AI Defined
[08:26] Generative AI for Content Creation
[10:08] Jasper AI Features and Evolution
[14:32] AI for Marketing
[21:06] Possible Decline of Search Engine Traffic
[25:25] The Creativity AI Can Foster
[29:52] AI's Impact on the Business World
[33:09] AI for Co-development
[35:16] How AI Makes Content Marketing Accessible
[40:42] How to Future Proof
[45:25] AI Literacy and AI Hallucinations
[49:47] Why You Should Continue Using Jasper
Notable Quotes
The only thing that has ever held our ideas back has been an inability to convey them. Thus, from AI, creating that content, the hours reclaimed that we can invest into thinking, expanding and refining ideas, and creating even better content is innumerable.
Today, baseline AI is a baseline part of most technology. But in the future, your brand's unique AI, will become that critical turning point of really personalized AI that really can represent your brand voice.
Too often, marketers see new technology and rush to the lowest bar of its creation. Just because the barriers have dropped with AI, doesn't mean our standards should.
So instead of always creating new content, why don't we take our old content and treat them as assets, and further improve upon them.
It's not about the quantity, it's about the quality, and good content, truly good content requires ideation. And with AI the best ideas win!
Create to inspire something to think about. And one of the big messages from this conference was humans collaborating with technology, right? It's all about the creativity that AI can help unleash, not just robotic text.
Instead of trying to learn it all yourself, take advantage of the fact that the AI can do a lot of it for you, and work on higher-level issues, similar to how marketers should work on higher-level issues like ideas, and distribution. And this power of ideation is critical for business.
Future-proofing ourselves means using AI to enhance our humanity, not erase it remember, ideatio
Exponentially Improve Your Social Media through Authentically Social Content
16 Feb 2023
00:24:40
Social media is not an option for generating organic traffic back to your website anymore.
It is time to use social media what it was intended for, and to reap the benefits and gain a competitive advantage compared to those who are still using social media as if it was 2010.
This is time to embrace authentically social content. Short form video is one example of this type of content, but there is another text-based type that can be effective on LinkedIn and Twitter.
Listen in for the full definitions and detailed advice!
Key Highlights
[02:30] My First AI Conference
[05:09] The Automated Approach in Social Media Now
[07:51] The Concept of Authentic Social
[10:23] Why I Started to be Convertational in My Social Media Content
[11:49] The Commonality I See in Different Types of Content
[13:05] My Twitter Experiment
[14:42] Tips in Using AI in Content Marketing
[18:37] Podcasts for Repurposing Content
Notable Quotes
We have matured as an audience that uses social media, we use it differently. And we understand what is the intent of someone when they reach out to us or when they post something on a specific topic.
Social media is a place to develop relationships, and engage with people and find your fans, find your customers, find your partners, whatever it is. It is an amazing place to build brand awareness, through conversation.
I would recommend you create a short form video that teaches one thing. This short form content that is truly authentic is based around providing value around one idea, like a micro blog post.
So whether it's Twitter threads, whether it's these LinkedIn posts, there's a commonality here that I am seeing. And it is a different type of content that perhaps younger people with a fresher look at content and these platforms, has found a way, being authentic and their content to really generate some pretty massive engagement.
I'm not saying completely stopped doing what you've been doing. But I'm saying by interjecting maybe starting once a week, , I think you're going to be rewarded. And by the way, that the biggest reward is not just the algorithm, but you're developing a deeper and more authentic relationship with your followers, and your connections as well.
The emergence of short form video, this is a another piece of that puzzle, but it's technically based. And if you can't buy in a short form video, I think this is something that you can buy into, you can create a system a process and start to insert more authentically social content into your feed. And I think you will reap the benefits from doing that.
How to Leverage TikTok for Brand Growth and Influencer Collaborations [Cassie Petrey Interview]
09 Feb 2023
00:43:06
TikTok is becoming more critical of a channel to tap into a new generation and new trends. But there are many things that we can apply from our legacy social media marketing into understanding and leveraging this newest of social media platforms for our business.
Today's guest, Cassie Petrey, co-founder of the digital marketing company Crowd Surf, has helped some of the most iconic musicians such as Backstreet Boys and Camila Cabello use social media to connect with their audience. That same advice can be used for your business regardless of industry. Listen in for the details!
Key Highlights
[04:30] Introduction of Podcast Guest, Cassie Petrey
[07:26] Cassie Journey to Social Media Marketing Industry
[18:13 Cassie's First Thought on TikTok
[20:10] Best Practices on Launching TikTok Account
[23:55] Growing TikTok Account Over Time
[26:35] The Importance of Engaging Within Social Community
[28:25] Defining High Quality TikTok Content
[31:00] How Musicians Approach Influencer Collaborations on TikTok
[34:41] Different Avenues in Finding Collaborative Relationship
[38:25] Connect With Cassie
[39:08] Final Thoughts
Notable Quotes
And if you think about it, computers aren't really that, you know, as fun without the internet without being able to connect with people. So I think this sort of like tool existing, to be able to normal person have a computer at home and be able to connect and do things on the internet was it really changed a lot of things in pop culture at that time.
I would say the most important thing is, before you even get on there, sort of have a vision of what your video content is going to be. The worst thing I think I see people do is they basically like copy videos from other people try to make it them themselves.
I think when you get out of your head about what everyone else is doing, and is think about what a tool is, at its core, that's when a lot of people sort of find the freedom to come up with the best ideas on what they can create to that represents their brand.
I feel like people start creating the content that's not good for them is when you start chasing when you either are making content because you are afraid or you feel guilty. Or because you think something you're making something because you think it's gonna get good numbers. And not because you think it's fun, or because you think it's good for your brand.
Spend time not being about themselves. Dedicate time to be a part of a social community, not just to post and hope that people come to you like you have to, you have to be out there giving the engagement to other people that you want to be receiving.
Always think about how do you want your brand to make people feel and in your video content, your social media content is an extension of that.
I'm all about simplifying this stuff. Because I think
ChatGPT, AI and Search Engines: My New Perspective and Advice for You
02 Feb 2023
00:29:13
Yes, there is a lot of buzz about ChatGPT, but what exactly does it mean for your business and what should your next steps be? Listen to my perspective and advice, and learn how to apply ChatGPT to your specific business and marketing needs.
[11:58] How Far AI Has Come with Brainstorming Ideation
[19:09] AI Tools As The Evolution of Technology
[22:03] Using AI for Research and Content Ideation
[23:50] Where It Gets Tricky
[24:39] Start Experimenting AI Tools Now!
Notable Quotes
So open AI is sort of considered the leaders in this technology and chat. GPT is just another iteration, another evolution, the improvement of this technology.
The way these AI tools work is you're giving them an input, and it's giving you an output, and the output is defined by information that's available on the internet.
That's why really good content writers, it doesn't matter what content you have them write for you, if they are really good at research. And they get a little experience in your topic in your company and your products and your industry. That content can represent you and your brand.
Technology evolves. And this is the evolution of the Internet now that it has become this powerful brain, leveraging artificial intelligence technology, instead of just the information is always there on the internet in an inconvenient way. AI is going to make it extremely convenient to us extremely quick.
But imagine, if you're writing a completely AI generated article, it is only based on what is out there on the internet. So if it's news, and other people have already published news about something, then yes, that actually makes sense. It's gonna save you time. But at the end of the day, why would I want to read the news from CNET, when I can read it from other people that are the source of the news, rather than through an AI bot?
If you're not using it, my recommendation, the takeaway from today is to begin experimenting ASAP.
So the message for today is, don't get left behind. Now's the time to really get up to speed. If you have men begin experimenting.
How to Get 1 Million Views on Your Instagram Reels [Travis Brown Interview]
26 Jan 2023
00:46:19
Looking to improve your Instagram Reels? Today's special guest, Travis Brown (@travisbrown on Instagram) will teach you the tips and tricks to get the most out of your Instagram videos, including:
How to research high-impact topics and hooks
How to only post content that works
How to make videos 5 times faster
Key Highlights
[04:02] Introduction of Podcast Guest, Travis Brown
[06:24] Travis's Journey to Podcasting
[07:59] Why Instagram Reels?
[11:27] How Travis Started With Short-Form Videos
[14:33] Balancing Work and Fun
[20:58] 3 Steps to Having Viral Short-Form Videos
[22:45] The Importance of Hooks and Topics
[26:16] How to Know What Content Is Working
[31:15] How Often Should You Post Reels?
[37:50] Travis's Advice on Making Short-Form Videos Fast
[42:14] 10x Video Challenge by Travis
[42:46] Connect With Travis
Notable Quotes
And now I'm actually geared more towards helping people go full time as a creator. So creating opportunities in the digital landscape, that they now have the tools to reach all kinds of people to be able to grow an audience, build a community, and then monetize it so that they could live a lifestyle that they enjoy.
What you resist the most is probably what's going to push you the farthest.
Short form video is not going anywhere. It's not the future. It's the present. And so If podcasters, or businesses or personal brands aren't leveraging it, then they're missing out on a big opportunity to reach lots and lots of people.
In order to reach a massive audience, you need to speak to broad and big topics. If your niche too far, you need to connect your niche to a broader topic.
I challenge people to not compare themselves to the current state of another creator. What you do is you go back all the way to the beginning of their journey, and you compare yourself to that. And if you can make something better than that right now, then you're already ahead of the game. And that's the whole name of the game.
That's the whole goal of marketing is to transform somebody's mindset about a thing, or a product, or help them make a transformation through your message.
We want to only be posting things that we think are going to have a good chance. And you know, the key to this is that people make videos viral, an algorithm doesn't make things viral.
When your video stops resonating with people is when they stop showing it to people.
The ASKNEAL™ Framework: 7 Steps to Make AI Sound Like YOU (Not a Robot)
21 Aug 2025
00:25:02
Are you getting generic, robotic outputs from ChatGPT that sound like everyone else's AI-generated content? You're not alone—and you're definitely using AI wrong.
In this episode, I'm revealing my ASKNEAL™ framework, a revolutionary 7-step system I developed while revising my bestselling book "Maximizing LinkedIn for Business Growth." This isn't just another AI hack—it's a complete methodology for collaborating with AI tools to amplify your authentic voice across every aspect of your business.
What You'll Learn:
The 7 steps of my ASKNEAL™ framework and how to implement each one
Why most people's AI prompts fail (and how to fix them immediately)
Real-world examples of the framework in action for LinkedIn, email marketing, and business strategy
How to make AI sound like YOU, not like a robot
The universal principles that work across all AI tools and use cases
My personal story of developing this framework and the dramatic results
How current book owners can get a FREE upgrade to the new version
Implementation challenge to test the framework this week
Whether you're a solopreneur struggling with content creation, a marketer trying to scale your output, or a business owner looking to leverage AI without losing your authentic voice, this framework will transform how you work with artificial intelligence.
Stop sounding like everyone else. Start sounding like the best version of YOU—with AI as your amplifier, not your replacement.
I recommend my clients always do an audit of their marketing technology stack on an annual basis, so here I am sharing my own stack in hopes of inspiring you to do the same and also to help you learn about some cool new tools that you might want to check out!
Below are links to each of the tools - and note that many of them are affiliate links, but the price to you is the same - it just helps fuel the creator economy ;-)
How to Foster Meaningful Conversations That Engage and Move People [Minter Dial Interview]
13 Jan 2023
00:44:24
Networking and fostering meaningful conversations to engage and move people are core skills that every marketing professional, entrepreneur, and business owner should have.
To help us hone in on these skills to begin the new year, I am honored to have my friend and someone who I have a great deal of respect for, Minter Dial, on this episode.
Minter is an elevating professional speaker and consultant on branding, leadership and transformation.
As he prepares to finish writing his new book, Dialogos, Minter shares with us:
Tools to facilitate conversation
Ways to meet new people (and network)
Ways to develop your empathic listening skills
As the pandemic slowly dwindles down and we go back out to working with and meeting more people in real life, this is the perfect episode to ensure we have the right mindset to take advantage of any and every potential networking situation.
Key Highlights
[01:54] Introduction of Podcast Guest, Minter Dial
[05:53] Minter As An Elevator
[07:12] How Minter Started His Speaking and Corporate Leadership Career
[11:58] Minter's Books
[13:51] Minter's Secret to Writing Content
[18:03] Books On Substack
[21:56] Recommended Tools in Facilitating A Conversation Approach to Business
[23:49] The Empathy Circle
[27:16] Helping People Find New People
[31:44] Ways to Develop Empathic Listening Skills
[34:36] The Reformulation Piece
[39:47] Connect With Minter
Notable Quotes
In the notion of elevation that's important to me, is finding more meaningfulness in whatever we do, whoever you are, in some kind of way.
The point that I was getting to, especially since I started working on digital, was how much the brand should be represented by the human beings, the employees that are working within the company. And so branding gets personal was really my mantra.
The first idea is it's really self-awareness, to notice when you're being triggered to notice when you are being overly excited. And in that impulsion, perhaps cutting off people not knowing to listen.
The second part of it is learning how to listen without judgment. And that means putting aside your own ego, and really trying to understand what the other person is saying. And the goodwill tool here is reformulation.
I have always thought that I am as strong as my network. But having a strong network doesn't mean having a lot of people. It means having a set of people who can have your back, have complementary skills, and add to your position, if you will not just like minded people, this is what I consider a strong network.
It's not about having quantity, it's about enjoying the process, listening to stories and not having an agenda.
Guest Links:
Read Minter's Dialogos, Fostering More Meaningful Conversations via Substac
How My Marketing - and Business - Performed in 2022
10 Jan 2023
00:31:15
Welcome to episode 300! As part of an annual tradition, today I report to you on how my marketing channels and business did in 2022. I want to not only provide you the data to let you know why I recommend what I do, but also inspire you by providing you some benchmarks for your own digital marketing.
Key Highlights
[02:25] My Annual Look On How My Channels Performed
[03:07] Where I Recommend You Begin With
[04:14] My Website Traffic
[06:28] Looking At My Direct Traffic
[08:44] You need to Reset Your Approach to Social Media
[10:13] Digging Deeper Inside Website Traffic
[14:15] My Two Takeaways
[18:23] My Digital Marketing Podcast Data
[19:14] Looking At My YouTube Channel Numbers
[22:25] Connect The Dots
[23:28] Ways I'm Looking At Monetizing
Notable Quotes
I always tell my clients direct traffic is really a result of your brand awareness. If people know about you, they're going to directly enter your name and the URL, your website name, they're going to bookmark your site and what have you. So that number to me is very positive.
But that's why, you know, social media was never made for website traffic generation. And we're going back to the early days of what social media was about just exposure, brand awareness. And the social platforms are more and more built for that, you know, short form video is about keeping people on the platform longer, and not having clickable content.
I know that email is the key to getting a business and building a deeper relationship with my community.
Inbound marketing truly works. It's not just creating content for website traffic sake. It's creating targeted content that drives targeted conversions.
When you look at your numbers like this, it becomes pretty clear that directs that you need to go. And I'm hoping that that serves as a or these numbers, you know, without giving you too specific numbers, serve as a Northstar, and maybe help clarify or help you better understand the numbers that you're seeing.
At some point, you need to connect the audience that you have, with the products and services that you sell, with the actual money that you earn. We're not doing digital marketing for the sake of doing digital marketing. We're not in college, doing a research project on how to generate more website traffic. This is our livelihood.
I think people really want to, well, they really want to go at their own pace. So it'll be interesting to see it's another experiment, but if you don't experiment you never know.