Small Business Made Simple Podcast

After 370 episodes, and almost 7 years, this is the last Small Business Made Simple Podcast episode. It's an emotional Goodbye but a necessary one right now. Please don't be a stranger, come join the Private Facebook Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/LikeMindedBusinessOwners Visit the website (check out the new branding!) https://www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au Or Come follow Jenn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenndonovan_/

Episode 369: Outsourcing, Overwhelm & Finding Freedom with Natasha Collins Are you drowning in admin and stuck doing the tasks you don’t love? In this episode of the Small Business Made Simple Podcast, I chat with Natasha Collins from Amity Resources about how outsourcing can free up your time, reduce overwhelm, and help you get back to doing what lights you up in business. Natasha shares her own story of building businesses from the ground up—including how Amity Resources was born—and why outsourcing isn’t just about saving time, it’s about creating more joy and freedom in your business (and life). If you’ve ever thought, “It’s just easier if I do it myself,” or found yourself working 70+ hours a week, this conversation is for you. From practical tips on what to outsource first, to tackling the mental blocks around delegating, Natasha brings so much wisdom and encouragement for small business owners. 👉 Tune in now to hear how outsourcing could be the missing piece in growing your business without burning out. 🟠 WANT 365 IDEAS ON WHAT TO POST ON SOCIAL MEDIA? Free eBook – https://socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/freebies/365-days-of-content-ideas-for-social-media/ 🟣 READY TO LIFT YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA GAME? Take the Challenge: https://jenn-donovan.myflodesk.com/fivedaychallenge    🟢 Let’s talk strategy with a free 3-Part Video series: https://socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/freebies/marketing-strategy-three-part-mini-video-series/ 🔵 SHOW NOTES (including a transcription of this episode and all links and resources): www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/369 🟡DM JENN OVER ON INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/jenndonovan_/ 🔴⭕ Purchase a copy of my new book Small Town Big Impact here: www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au   

Ever wondered how different generations really impact your business—both as customers and as employees? In this week’s Small Business Made Simple Podcast, I sit down with the fabulous Michelle Pascoe to unpack the power (and quirks!) of generational marketing and leadership. From Baby Boomers to Gen Z—and even the brand-new Betas—we explore what motivates each group, the assumptions that hold us back, and how smart leaders can bridge the gaps. 🎧 You’ll walk away with: Practical insights into managing and motivating multi-generational teams Fresh ideas on connecting with customers across six generations Real strategies you can put into action today (not “one day”) So grab your notebook, lean in, and get ready to see your business through a whole new generational lens. Take a listen to episode 368 and hear the GOLD! 🟠 WANT 365 IDEAS ON WHAT TO POST ON SOCIAL MEDIA? Free eBook – https://socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/freebies/365-days-of-content-ideas-for-social-media/ 🟣 READY TO LIFT YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA GAME? Take the Challenge: https://jenn-donovan.myflodesk.com/fivedaychallenge    🟢 Let’s talk strategy with a free 3-Part Video series: https://socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/freebies/marketing-strategy-three-part-mini-video-series/ 🔵 SHOW NOTES (including a transcription of this episode and all links and resources): www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/368 🟡DM JENN OVER ON INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/jenndonovan_/ 🔴⭕ Purchase a copy of my new book Small Town Big Impact here: www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au 

**How to Humanise Your Brand in the Age of AI**   *Small Business Made Simple Podcast with host Jenn Donovan & guest Fiona Killackey* Are you curious about harnessing the power of AI in your business, without losing the magic that makes your brand uniquely human? In this episode, Jenn Donovan sits down with Fiona Killackey, founder of My Daily Business, for a thought-provoking and practical chat on navigating business in the AI era. Fiona shares her journey from magazine editor to marketing lead at major brands, all the way to running her own business, always with a focus on aligning your work with your values and living life *beyond the hustle*. Together, they discuss: - How AI is changing the landscape for small business owners   - The risks of relying too heavily on technology (and how to keep it as your assistant, not your authority)   - Practical ways to humanise your brand, connect authentically, and stand out   - Combatting AI bias and why your unique voice matters now more than ever   - Tools and tips Fiona uses daily for business *and* life efficiency   Whether you’re an AI skeptic or you’re eager to adopt the latest tech, this episode will inspire you to combine the best of both worlds: innovation and heart. Plus, hear about Fiona’s popular books and the one AI tool she swears by for creative entrepreneurs. Hit play to find out how to future-proof your brand with authenticity, storytelling, and a very human approach to technology!

Ready to give LinkedIn another chance? In this episode of the Small Business Made Simple Podcast, I chat with LinkedIn expert Kate Merryweather, who shares why LinkedIn isn’t just another social platform — it’s a goldmine for small business owners ready to be more visible, connect with the right audience, and grow their business. Kate reveals why copy-pasting your Facebook or Instagram strategy won’t work, how the LinkedIn algorithm differs across countries, and why being just 10% braver than others can make you stand out online. Whether you’ve tried LinkedIn before or you’re curious about making it your go-to platform, Kate’s insights will give you the confidence (and the strategy) to show up smarter. Plus — she’s joining me live at the Social Media & Marketing Conference on Friday, 29th August 2025 in Melbourne. Don’t miss her expert tips in person! Tickets available here: https://www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference  👉 Tune in now and discover how LinkedIn could be the platform that finally works for you.

🎙️ Episode Title: Podcasting & PR for FREE with Jules Brooke Ever wondered how to use podcasting and PR to grow your influence — without spending a cent? In this episode of the Small Business Made Simple Podcast, I sit down with the incredible Jules Brooke, founder of She’s The Boss and Women Speakers Australia, to unpack how small business owners can get visible, connect with influencers, and harness media opportunities to build credibility. Jules shares her unique approach to podcasting as a powerful relationship-building tool (hello, instant coffee with CEOs!) and why PR is one of the most underrated — yet free — marketing strategies for small business. If you’ve ever thought PR was too hard, Jules is here to prove it’s not only doable, but essential. We also dive into what she’ll be sharing on stage at the 2025 Social Media & Marketing Conference in Melbourne — helping business owners like you embrace podcasting and PR as game-changing strategies. ✨ Tune in and discover how to: Use podcasting to connect with decision-makers and grow your network Leverage PR to build trust and credibility for your brand Overcome the fear and just give it a go 🎧 Listen now and get inspired to make your business more visible than ever!

🎙 Episode 364a: AI, Marketing & Avoiding Burnout with Tracy Sheen AI is moving fast—but how can small business owners harness it without getting lost in the overwhelm? In this bonus episode, I chat with Tracy Sheen, digital guide, speaker, and author of AI and You: Business Reimagined. Tracy shares practical ways you can use AI to supercharge your marketing, streamline content, and avoid burnout, while still keeping your brand voice and values intact. We also talk about the upcoming Social Media & Marketing Conference Melbourne 2025, where Tracy is one of our keynote speakers. If you’ve been curious about AI but unsure where to start, this episode is packed with real-world insights, a few laughs, and some no-nonsense advice to help you stay visible online without adding more stress. 🎟 Grab your ticket to the conference: socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference

SEO made simple (finally!). In this bonus episode, I’m joined by Ray Pastoors, one of the brilliant keynote speakers at the Social Media & Marketing Conference 2025. Ray has over 20 years of digital experience and a passion for making SEO and search strategies easy to understand — no jargon, no overwhelm, just practical tips you can actually use. We talk about what’s really changing in Google and search right now, how small business owners can become more visible online (even if you don’t have a website!), and why organic search is still one of the most powerful growth tools in your marketing toolkit. Ray also shares what he’ll be covering at the conference in Melbourne on Friday 29 August 2025 — and trust me, this is one keynote you’ll want to hear live. 🎧 Tune in now and get a sneak peek of the gold he’ll be sharing from the stage! Get Your Ticket here: https://www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference 

What if your business could give you more joy, freedom and inspiration? In this special episode, I’m joined by my friend and conference speaker Emma Lovell, the original Bleisure (business + leisure) Coach. We talk all about retreats, rest, and how weaving a little more leisure into your business can spark creativity, attract your ideal clients, and actually help you grow faster. Emma also shares why she literally changed her flight back from the US so she wouldn’t miss the Social Media & Marketing Conference on Friday 29 August 2025 in Melbourne CBD (so really, what’s your excuse?). https://www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference  If you’re ready to rethink marketing, rediscover balance, and learn how fun can fuel your business, this is the episode for you. 🎧 Hit play now and join the conversation.

Ready to grow your small business without burning out? In this episode, I’m joined by Troy Trewin from Grow Your Small Business — a man who’s seen it all: 26 years in business, 30+ partnerships, and more lessons (and laughs) than you can count. We talk about the three biggest mistakes small business owners are still making in 2025, why people and marketing are your greatest growth levers, and how to start thinking about your exit strategy (even if you’re years away from selling). This one’s packed with practical tips, real-world experience, and the kind of advice you wish you’d had years ago. And if you love the idea of sharpening your skills even more, don’t miss the Social Media & Marketing Conference on Friday 29 August 2025 in Melbourne CBD. It’s your chance to learn from top experts (including me!) and connect with like-minded business owners. Tickets at socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference. If you’re ready to work smarter, lead better, and grow with confidence — hit play!

Episode 360: Crafting the Perfect Elevator Pitch for Your Business You’re at a conference. Someone turns to you and asks, “So, what do you do?” Do you have a killer answer ready? In this episode of the Small Business Made Simple Podcast, I’m diving into how to craft a powerful elevator pitch that’s memorable, impactful and makes your dream client say, “Tell me more!” Whether you’re heading to a networking event, meeting a new collaborator, or (hint hint) coming along to the 2025 Social Media and Marketing Conference on 29th August, having a pitch that rolls off your tongue with confidence is a must. We’ll cover: What makes a pitch persuasive (without sounding salesy) The secret sauce to being memorable and clear Why your elevator pitch isn’t “one and done” And a few fun examples, including my own! Plus, I’m throwing you a challenge—create your own pitch and tag me on social. I’ll reshare my favourites! 🎧 Listen now and get prepped to pitch like a pro (and maybe even win hearts and business before the elevator dings). 🎟️ And if you haven’t grabbed your conference ticket yet… what are you waiting for? https://www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference 

Episode 359: How to Actually Make Money on Social Media with Jade Warne Ready to actually make money from all the hours you're pouring into social media? This episode is your golden ticket. In this bonus chat, I’m joined by the magnetic Jade Warne—founder of the Small Business Growth Club, mum of three, and social selling superstar. Jade’s built a $200K+ online income using nothing more than her phone, smart strategy, and a whole lot of heart. Now, she’s sharing how you can do it too. Whether you’re a service-based business, eComm queen, or bricks-and-mortar biz, this conversation is packed with timeless tips, a few truth bombs, and just the nudge you need to turn posts into profit. Jade’s also one of our keynote speakers at the 2025 Social Media and Marketing Conference—so if you’re on the fence about coming, this might just be the push you need to grab that ticket. 🎧 Listen to Episode 359 now to learn how to sell on social without selling your soul. 🎟️ Conference tix: socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference

Episode 358 – How to Use Video to Grow Your Small Business Without Fancy Gear or Fear If you know you should be doing more video in your business but feel overwhelmed, tech-resistant, or a little camera shy — this episode is for you! In this week’s chat, I’m joined by Caleb Maxwell from Hebron Films — a regional Victorian video strategist who breaks down how small business owners can start creating better video content without fancy gear, big budgets, or overthinking it. We talk about: 🎯 Why video isn’t the goal — the outcome is 📽️ How to use video strategically (without wasting time or money) 🧠 Simple mindset shifts to help you get confident on camera 🛠️ AI tools and techniques to make video production easier and more repeatable 📈 Why episodic content (like “Part 1, 2, 3”) is working right now — and how to use it in your own marketing This conversation is jam-packed with practical tips, real stories, and a healthy dose of “you’ve got this” encouragement. 👉 Go have a listen now — and check out the full show notes at: www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/358 🎟️ And if you haven’t grabbed your ticket for the 2025 Social Media and Marketing Conference, now’s the time! Early Bird ends soon and you can now pay in 4 instalments: Get your ticket here   🟠 WANT 365 IDEAS ON WHAT TO POST ON SOCIAL MEDIA? Free eBook – https://socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/freebies/365-days-of-content-ideas-for-social-media/ 🟣 READY TO LIFT YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA GAME? Take the Challenge: https://jenn-donovan.myflodesk.com/fivedaychallenge    🟢 Let’s talk strategy with a free 3-Part Video series: https://socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/freebies/marketing-strategy-three-part-mini-video-series/ 🔵 SHOW NOTES (including a transcription of this episode and all links and resources): www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/322    🟡DM JENN OVER ON INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/jenndonovan_/ 🔴⭕ Purchase a copy of my new book Small Town Big Impact here: www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au 

BONUS EPISODE 357: Someone Has to Be the Most Expensive – Why Not Make It You? with Andrew Griffiths In this bonus episode, I’m sharing something a little bit special with you – a repurposed chat from a recent LinkedIn Live I hosted with the incredible Andrew Griffiths – bestselling author, speaker, and all-round legend. Andrew is not only one of my personal mentors, but also my closing keynote speaker for the 2025 Social Media & Marketing Conference in Melbourne on 29 August. We sat down to talk about a BIG topic: charging what you're worth – and why so many business owners still hold themselves back when it comes to pricing. We cover: Why now is exactly the right time to review your pricing How confidence, mindset, and value perception all play a role Why product and service-based businesses alike need to embrace being “the most expensive” The real cost of saying yes to discounts (and the thousands you could be leaving on the table) If you've ever second-guessed your pricing, undercharged for your brilliance, or told yourself “now isn’t the right time to increase my rates”, this episode is a must-listen. 🎧 Tune in now and get a sneak peek at the message Andrew will be delivering live on stage at the conference – and why it might just be the message you need to hear. 🎟️ Ready to be in the room? Grab your ticket at: https://www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference

EPISODE 356: Your Brand vs Your Product – Are You What People Are Buying? Ever wondered how much your business name really matters? Or whether you’re spending too much time branding your business and not enough branding you? In this episode, I dive into a brilliant question I was asked during a recent keynote: “How important is the business name if I am the one clients are buying?” If you're a service-based business – coach, celebrant, photographer, personal trainer, social media manager – this one’s for you. Because here’s the truth: your clients aren’t just buying a product, they’re buying you. We’ll talk about: Why YOU are your biggest marketing asset The power of personal brand over business name What to post when you feel like you’re “too professional” to be personal How to show up more as the expert your audience is already looking for This episode is a mindset shift, a confidence boost, and a nudge to start showing up more as you. 🎧 Tune in now and let’s talk about being the face, voice and heart of your business. Because people buy from people – especially brilliant ones like you. ** Tickets to the 2025 Social Media and Marketing Conference - https://www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference    🟠 WANT 365 IDEAS ON WHAT TO POST ON SOCIAL MEDIA? Free eBook – https://socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/freebies/365-days-of-content-ideas-for-social-media/ 🟣 READY TO LIFT YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA GAME? Take the Challenge: https://jenn-donovan.myflodesk.com/fivedaychallenge    🟢 Let’s talk strategy with a free 3-Part Video series: https://socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/freebies/marketing-strategy-three-part-mini-video-series/ 🔵 SHOW NOTES (including a transcription of this episode and all links and resources): www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/322    🟡DM JENN OVER ON INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/jenndonovan_/ 🔴⭕ Purchase a copy of my new book Small Town Big Impact here: www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au 

EPISODE 355: The Number One Thing You Need to Know When Launching Got something exciting in the works – a new product, a service, a book, maybe even a podcast? Then this episode is for YOU. In today’s chat, I’m sharing my best launch advice ever – the kind that turns “meh” launches into momentum-building, community-powered rollouts. Spoiler alert: showing up with your launch already done is a marketing misstep. Instead, I’ll walk you through how to bring your people on the journey so they’re ready to buy when you’re ready to sell! Plus, I dive into my own book launch experience and show you exactly what a six-week runway launch strategy looks like – step-by-step. Oh, and before you go – have you grabbed your ticket for the 2025 Social Media & Marketing Conference yet? Head to socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference to get yours before Early Bird ends! 🎧 Tune in now – and let’s make your next launch your best one yet.   🟠 WANT 365 IDEAS ON WHAT TO POST ON SOCIAL MEDIA? Free eBook – https://socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/freebies/365-days-of-content-ideas-for-social-media/ 🟣 READY TO LIFT YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA GAME? Take the Challenge: https://jenn-donovan.myflodesk.com/fivedaychallenge    🟢 Let’s talk strategy with a free 3-Part Video series: https://socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/freebies/marketing-strategy-three-part-mini-video-series/ 🔵 SHOW NOTES (including a transcription of this episode and all links and resources): www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/322    🟡DM JENN OVER ON INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/jenndonovan_/ 🔴⭕ Purchase a copy of my new book Small Town Big Impact here: www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au 

Bonus Episode – Marketing With No Money: Katrina McCarter’s No-Fluff Advice for Small Business Owners In this bonus episode, I’m chatting with the amazing Katrina McCarter – marketing strategist, keynote speaker, and one of the powerhouse presenters at my 2025 Social Media & Marketing Conference. We dive into the topic she’s most passionate about: marketing with no money – and why it’s not just possible, but powerful when done right. Katrina shares her personal journey, her favourite budget-friendly strategies, and a sneak peek of what she’s bringing to the stage in Melbourne this August. If you’re a small business owner looking for proven, practical, zero-fluff strategies to grow without burning cash, this is a must-listen. 🎧 Tune in now and get inspired – then grab your ticket to the conference before they’re gone! 👉 Get your ticket here: https://www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference

Episode 353: Instagram and Google Are Now in Bed Together – What This Means for Your Biz! Big news in the digital world! From 10 July 2025, your Instagram content (yep – posts, Reels, carousels and videos) can now appear in Google search results if you’ve got a public professional account. What does that mean for your business visibility? More eyes, more clicks… but maybe a little more pressure too. In this episode, I break down what’s changing, how it affects you as a small business owner, the pros and cons (yes, there are a few “eep” bits!), and – of course – what you should do next. Plus, I’m answering the big question: Will this help grow your Instagram followers – or just boost your visibility? Grab a cuppa, hit play and let’s chat strategy, SEO, and how to make your content work harder for you – without working harder yourself! 👉 Listen in now and get ahead of the curve! ** Have you got your ticket to the 2025 Social Media and Marketing Conference? Head here to pick yours up! https://www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference **

🎧 BONUS EPISODE – Inclusive Marketing with Zoe Simmons: What You Might Be Missing In this bonus episode of the Small Business Made Simple Podcast, I’m sharing a powerful conversation I had live on LinkedIn with one of the speakers at my upcoming Social Media and Marketing Conference, the brilliant Zoe Simmons. Zoe is an award-winning journalist, disability advocate, and all-round powerhouse, and she’s here to challenge the way we think about marketing. Spoiler alert – 20% of the population lives with a disability, and yet, most marketing leaves them out. We chat about: Why inclusive marketing matters now more than ever Simple things you can do to make your business more accessible The lightbulb moments you’ll experience when you just start thinking differently Zoe will be taking the stage on 29 August in Melbourne at the Social Media and Marketing Conference to deliver even more practical, empowering, and mindset-shifting insights. 🎟️ Haven’t grabbed your ticket yet? Head to https://www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/conference  before the next price rise. Whether you're already booked in and can’t wait to meet Zoe in person, or this conversation is the nudge you needed – this episode is a must-listen.

** Purchase your 2025 Social Media and Marketing Conference ticket for $199 here: https://www.socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/351 ** Episode 351 – How to Do “The People Stuff” Better in Your Business with Amy Christopherson Got a team? Thinking about building one? Or just wondering how to lead better without losing your mind (or your weekends)? This episode is for you. This week on the Small Business Made Simple Podcast, I’m joined by HR expert and small business champion, Amy Christopherson from Grounded HR. Amy’s on a mission to make the “people part” of business less daunting and more empowering—for you and your team. Whether you’ve got a handful of contractors or a fast-growing squad, we’re diving into how to lead with purpose, put solid contracts in place (hint: not the ChatGPT kind), and create a culture that makes people want to stay. Tune in for practical HR advice, real talk about hiring fears, and a timely reminder that investing in people is actually investing in your profits. 🎧 Ready to lead better and grow with confidence? Hit play now. 👉 Listen to the full episode at socialmediaandmarketing.com.au/351