Rocky Mountain Marketing- Digital Marketing for Entrepreneurs

Ready to stop doing it all yourself and build a high-performing team?In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, Katie Brinkley sits down with Shawn Quintero, COO and co-owner of Next Step Social & Podcasting, to share exactly how they scaled a remote team that runs on clarity, collaboration, and strong company culture.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction: The Real Challenge in Business00:45 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing01:19 Meet the COO: Sean Quintero02:38 The Importance of Hiring and Onboarding04:01 Building Effective Systems and Culture05:27 Managing People: Soft Skills and Emotional Intelligence06:35 Making Tough Decisions: Letting Go and Hiring Right15:16 Onboarding and Training: Setting Up for Success20:09 Addressing Performance Issues24:03 Creating a Positive Remote Work Culture29:10 Conclusion: People Are People30:20 Outro: Subscribe and Stay ConnectedIf you’re an entrepreneur, coach, or agency owner who’s tired of bottlenecking your business, this is the episode that will help you step fully into your leadership role.Don’t miss it—hit play now and discover what it takes to scale your team with confidence.Visit Shawn Quintero online:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heyshawnq/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeyShawnQ/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Every time Austin Armstrong joins me on the show, he’s leveled up—and this time is no different. From billions (yes, billions) of organic views to launching tools like Syllabi and ThreadMaster, Austin’s name is now synonymous with AI-powered content creation and repeatable virality.In this episode, we dive into the systems, frameworks, and mindset behind Virality—his new book that breaks down how to stop chasing vanity metrics and start building real business leverage with your content. You’ll hear about:Why “stop chasing views” is his first messageThe power of thinking like a business owner who creates content—not just a content creatorHis START Video Framework for strategic postsHow he uses AI tools to create 20+ pieces of content a day (without burnout!)The leverage behind vanity metrics when paired with the right backend strategyA practical AI prompt you can copy to generate a 30-day content planAustin also unpacks what’s actually working right now on social—and how you can implement the same systems to grow your brand, your revenue, and your reach.If you’re tired of posting with no results, this episode is for you.Visit Austin Armstrong online:Website: https://syllaby.io/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Owwstin/Virality! (Book): https://a.co/d/4UnuJ0xThreadmaster.AI: https://threadmaster.ai/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SocialtyProLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with the incredible Jenn Herman—Instagram strategist, author of Instagram for Dummies, and founder of the Profit Your Profile community. We unpack what’s actually working for organic Instagram growth in 2025 and beyond.If you’ve ever felt like your content isn’t gaining traction or that the Instagram algorithm is working against you, this episode is your wake-up call. Jenn reveals:Why organic reach isn’t dead—it’s just differentThe secret to reels that stop the scrollHow to balance short-form content with authenticityThe growing importance of recommended contentHow to keep trust while leveraging AI in your content strategyTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: Is Organic Reach Dead on Instagram?01:09 Guest Introduction: Jen Herman on Instagram Strategy02:36 The Evolution of Instagram: Features and Functions05:48 Adapting to Algorithm Changes08:31 Creating Authentic and Engaging Content16:56 Leveraging Instagram Stories and AI24:45 Building Private Communities and Memberships29:55 Future Trends and Final ThoughtsWe also talk about how micro-communities, subscriber-only content, and even Stories are still the highest-converting tools on Instagram when done right.Ready to future-proof your Instagram strategy? Tune in to hear how you can grow with less, stay real, and leverage what’s actually working right now.Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you tune in.Visit Jenn Herman online:Website: https://jennstrends.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenns_trends/Profit Your Profile Community: https://profityourprofile.com/Jenn Herman's Books: https://jennstrends.com/books/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Running a business on sticky notes, late nights, and last-minute decisions? I’ve been there. In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down once again with my operational other half and COO, Shawn Quintero, to share the behind-the-scenes journey of turning Next Step Social & Podcasting from a founder-dependent business into a scalable, framework-driven company.We get real about what it takes to stop doing it all and start leading intentionally. From the CEO-COO relationship, to daily huddles, GWC evaluations, and how we use the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to guide every move—we're pulling back the curtain on the systems and rhythms that power sustainable growth.Whether you're a solopreneur with a team or a visionary ready to scale, this episode is your blueprint.In this episode, we discuss:The turning point when we shifted from solopreneurship to a true business modelHow hiring for growth (not relief) changes everythingWhat it really means to become a CEO vs. just being a founderWhy EOS became our growth frameworkHow we run our business with vision, data, and process clarityDaily huddle structure that keeps our team aligned and efficientChapters:00:00:00 Introduction to Business Scaling00:00:00 Introduction to Business Scaling00:03:00 Transitioning from Solopreneurship00:06:00 Strategic Hiring and Systematization 00:09:00 Understanding EOS and Its Components00:12:00 Building a Strong Business Partnership00:15:00 The Role of Vision and Delegation00:18:00 Implementing Daily Huddles and GWC Test00:21:00 The Importance of Complementary Skills00:24:00 Maintaining Alignment and Communication00:27:00 Scaling with Structure and Systems00:30:00 Conclusion and Call to ActionVisit Shawn Quintero online:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heyshawnq/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeyShawnQ/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with Matthew Rouse—author, agency owner, and AI startup founder—to talk about the real state of AI in business. Forget the hype—Matt and I dive into practical AI tools, how to build better automations, and how small businesses can scale smarter without sacrificing authenticity.We explore:What AI is actually doing for businesses right nowCreative AI workflows that go beyond social media postsWhy automating your reporting could save you hundreds of hoursHow to train AI to support your team without replacing themThe #1 automation every small business should implement before the year endsTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to AI and Job Security00:30 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing01:00 Meet Matt Rouse: AI Expert and Entrepreneur01:26 The Reality of AI for Entrepreneurs06:18 AI Tools and Their Applications14:03 Using AI for Creative Processes18:32 Automating Business Tasks with AI23:28 The Future of AI in Business28:58 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsMatt also shares insights from his book Will AI Take My Job Too?, plus his approach to building powerful AI agents and automations that actually move the needle.Tune in to learn how to stop fearing AI—and start using it to make your business more efficient, impactful, and human.Listen now on your favorite podcast platform and don’t forget to subscribe! Visit Matt Rouse online:Website: https://matthewrouse.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmrouse/SMB Autopilot: https://smbautopilot.ai/Book: https://www.amazon.com/Will-Take-Job-Predictions-Corporations/dp/B0CL9NWGGLLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with Kelly Schuknecht, founder of Two Mile High Marketing and a personal branding strategist, to unpack what it really means to build an authentic brand in today’s AI-saturated world.Kelly shares how she accidentally built her personal brand over 15 years ago, and how that journey led her to help other professionals turn their expertise into influence. We dive into the importance of authenticity, how AI tools like ChatGPT and Quso can elevate your voice—not replace it—and why your story still matters more than ever.We also explore:What the “Authority X-Factor” is and how to find yoursWhy AI-generated content lacks the human touchHow to use AI tools the right way for repurposing your contentWhether writing a book still holds power in building thought leadership (spoiler: YES)Tactical tips to grow your personal brand using speaking, podcasting, and LinkedInTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to AI and Personal Branding00:24 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing00:54 Meet Today's Guest: Kelly Schuknecht01:25 The Importance of Personal Branding in the Age of AI02:36 Kelly's Journey to Personal Branding04:14 Challenges in Defining Personal Brand08:47 The Role of AI in Content Creation14:56 AI Tools for Personal Branding18:51 The Power of Writing a Book for Personal Branding25:06 Getting Started with Personal Branding28:40 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsWant to know if your personal brand is working for you? Take Kelly’s Thought Leadership Scorecard at twomilehighmarketing.comVisit Kelly Kelly Schuknecht online:Website: https://kellyschuknecht.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyschuknecht/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/kellyschuknechtLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it really take to scale your business without losing your sanity?In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with my friend, business partner, and COO of Next Step Social & Podcasting, Shawn Quintero. Shawn pulls back the curtain on the systems, strategy, and mindset shifts that have helped us scale Next Step Social & Podcasting —and support clients doing the same.We talk about:How to shift from founder-dependence to system-dependenceWhat makes a marketing campaign actually workWhy our VIP Day is a game-changer for businesses of all sizesWhat it takes to turn your podcast into a lead-generating machineThe one business principle that will eliminate overwhelmTimestamps00:00 Introduction: Scaling Your Business01:02 Meet the COO: Shawn Quintero01:57 The Importance of Systems in Business03:34 Challenges of Founder-Dependent Businesses10:18 Strategic Incentives and Marketing Campaigns12:53 VIP Day: A Game Changer for Businesses17:14 Client Success Stories21:20 Finding Clarity and Solving Problems25:13 Looking Ahead: Scaling in 202626:52 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsWhether you're a solo business owner or managing a full team, this conversation will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the intentional design that drives real business growth.Ready to take the next step? Book your VIP Day now at yournextstep.agency and let’s build your custom growth strategy.Visit Shawn Quintero online:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heyshawnq/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeyShawnQ/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I’ll be honest—most business owners and marketers I talk to think their tracking is dialed in… but they’re still flying blind. Why? Because they’re trusting platforms like Google or Meta to tell them what’s working.In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sat down with Zeke Camusio, founder of Data Speaks, to talk about why your tracking pixels might be lying to you—and how to fix it.Zeke breaks down the flaws in traditional tracking methods and shares a smarter, AI-powered approach to marketing attribution. We dive into the three pillars of unified measurement (media mix modeling, incrementality testing, and attribution) and how they help you make confident, data-driven decisions that actually move the needle.Whether you’re spending $2K or $200K a month on ads, this conversation will help you:Stop wasting budget on campaigns that aren’t convertingUnderstand how attribution really works across platformsClean up your tracking for more accurate insightsLearn how to implement AI-powered analytics without needing a data science teamIt’s time to stop guessing and start scaling with accurate marketing data. You won’t want to miss this one.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction: The Problem with Tracking Pixels00:24 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing00:59 The Inaccuracy of Tracking Pixels01:43 Introducing Zeke Muccio and Data Speaks02:30 Are Tracking Pixels Reliable?05:03 Challenges with Tracking Pixels08:21 Unified Measurement Framework11:19 AI in Marketing Analytics14:48 Practical Steps for Business Owners17:32 The Role of UTM Tags and Pixels22:39 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsVisit Zeke Camusio online:Website: https://dataspeaks.ai/LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/zekemuccioFree tools: https://dataspeaks.ai/resourcesLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if your website could generate leads while you sleep?In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with Wes Towers, founder of Uplift 360, to talk about what most business owners get wrong about their websites—and how to fix it. Wes shares his innovative approach to Search Everywhere Optimization, explains how to build an AI-proof content strategy, and breaks down how to make your website your #1 salesperson.We also unpack:The future of SEO in an AI-powered search worldWhy your website’s design may be costing you conversionsHow to create content that gets picked up by AI and voice searchWhy human-first branding still matters—and how to lead with itTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: The Hardest Working Sales Rep00:44 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing01:18 Meet Wes Towers: Embracing AI and Human Connection02:37 The Importance of Your Website as a Sales Rep06:31 Search Everywhere Optimization Explained11:06 Practical Tips for an Effective Website20:02 Leveraging AI While Doubling Down on Human Connection22:03 Key Takeaways and ConclusionIf you’re a coach, consultant, or small business owner who wants to future-proof your brand and actually see results from your website, this episode is your game plan.Visit Wes Towers:Website: https://uplift360.com.au/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/westowers/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@uplift_360Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When crisis strikes, will your business be ready?In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with Mike Swenson to uncover what every small and mid-sized business must know about crisis management. Mike shares his 30+ years of experience in public relations and walks us through a five-step framework for creating a crisis plan that actually works. From social media slip-ups to data breaches, we explore real-world scenarios that can put your reputation at risk—and how to protect it before it's too late.We also talk about why a crisis communication plan should be considered part of your marketing strategy, not just your PR playbook.What You’ll Learn:The biggest mistake small businesses make when it comes to crisis planningWhy your credibility is your most valuable asset—and how to protect itThe five must-have steps in a crisis management planThe importance of designating a crisis team (even if you’re a team of 5!)How communication can make or break your business during a crisisTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: Facing a Business Crisis00:45 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing01:23 Meet Mike Swensen: Crisis Management Expert03:02 The Importance of a Crisis Plan08:01 Steps to Create an Effective Crisis Plan12:05 Real-World Examples and Lessons18:25 Actionable Steps for Entrepreneurs22:28 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsWhether you’re a solopreneur or scaling a business, this episode will leave you thinking differently about how to prepare for the unexpected.Visit Mike Swenson:Website: https://crisistrak.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeswenson1/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If your business isn’t ranking on Google Maps, you might as well be invisible. In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I am joined by local SEO expert Josh Thompson, founder of Bright Beam SEO. They dive deep into practical strategies that local business owners can implement today to rank higher in local search results.Josh shares his powerful OCTBR SEO framework—Optimize, Content, Targeting, Backlinks, and Reviews—and explains why focusing on bottom-of-the-funnel searchers leads to real, revenue-generating results. From the future of AI in search to the simple tweaks you can make to your Google Business Profile, this episode is a masterclass for business owners who want to get found by customers ready to buy.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why Google Maps rankings matter more than everThe most common local SEO mistakes (and how to avoid them)The real deal on backlinks—and how to earn quality onesHow to future-proof your business against AI-driven searchJosh’s go-to SEO strategies for immediate visibility gainsTimestamps: 00:00 Introduction: The Power of Google Search00:29 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing01:06 Understanding Local SEO with Josh Thompson02:19 The Importance of Google Maps for Small Businesses05:49 SEO Strategies: Optimize, Content, Target, Backlinks, Reviews09:38 Impact of AI on Local SEO14:02 Building Effective Backlinks19:26 Quick Wins for Improving Local SEO22:28 Common SEO Mistakes to Avoid26:59 Conclusion and Contact InformationDon’t miss this chance to turn Google into your best lead generator. Tune in now and walk away with a game plan for better visibility, stronger reviews, and more ideal customers.Visit Joshua Thompson:Website: https://brightbeamseo.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshualinkedYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@brightbeamseoLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m joined by Bradford Carlton, an AI automation strategist helping entrepreneurs take back their time using low-code and no-code AI agents.Bradford explains how AI agents—think “digital employees”—can handle repetitive tasks, streamline workflows, and even replace entire job functions… all for pennies on the dollar. We discuss what platforms to start with (like Zapier, Make, and n8n), what kind of tasks to automate first, and how solopreneurs can scale without burnout.If you're ready to delegate to tech instead of hiring more staff, this episode will show you the way.What You’ll Learn:What AI agents actually are and how they workThe difference between AI tools and AI agentsHow to get started with no-code/low-code automation (no tech skills needed!)Why this isn’t just about productivity—but profitabilityWhy the future of entrepreneurship requires AI literacyWhat You’ll Learn:00:00 Introduction to the Ultimate Team Member00:12 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing00:47 The Burden of Repetitive Tasks01:31 Introducing Dr. Bradford Carlton02:15 The Future of AI in Business03:13 Understanding AI Agents04:48 Real-World Applications of AI05:48 Common Myths and Fears About AI07:29 Getting Started with AI Automation12:06 Practical Tools for AI Automation14:14 The Future of AI Agents and Automation16:11 Final Thoughts and Call to Action19:33 Conclusion and FarewellIf you're a small business owner feeling buried in busy work, it's time to let AI step in. Tune in to this episode and learn how to turn hours of admin into a few clicks—and reclaim your time for what matters most. Subscribe for more future-focused marketing episodes every week!Visit Bradford Carlton:Website: https://www.bradfordcarlton.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradfordcarltonYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@BradfordSCarltonFree Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/automate-business-ai/aboutLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#AIagents #businessautomation #entrepreneurmindset #lowcode #nocode #marketingautomation #AItools #smallbusinessgrowth #digitalproductivity #solopreneurtools #workflowautomation #Zapier #Makecom #n8n #timemanagement Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I spoke with Hunter Jensen, founder and CEO of Barefoot Solutions, to explore the often-overlooked risks and opportunities in building AI strategies for business.Hunter shares expert guidance on:How companies can use AI without compromising sensitive dataWhy blindly plugging your proprietary info into ChatGPT is dangerousWhat a strong AI governance policy should includeWhen open-source AI models are the better fit for your goalsHow to educate your team on safe and effective AI usageTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: The Hidden Risks of AI Data00:28 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing00:58 Today's Topic: Secure and ROI-Driven AI Strategy01:19 Meet Hunter Jensen: AI and Data Science Expert02:43 The Importance of Secure AI Tools05:55 Steps to Implementing a Secure AI Strategy06:37 The Role of AI Governance and Internal Tools15:58 Custom AI Solutions for Your Business18:58 Final Thoughts and Practical Advice24:23 Conclusion and How to ConnectThey also dig into how machine learning supports predictive analytics, and the importance of fostering innovation within your company culture to fully leverage AI.Whether you're a founder, CIO, or digital marketer, this episode delivers the tactical and strategic insights you need to build a secure, scalable, and ROI-positive AI roadmap.Visit Hunter Jensen:Website: https://www.barefootsolutions.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hunterjensen/Email: hunter@barefootsolutions.comLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#AISecurity #AIStrategy #Chatgpt Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wonder why your marketing isn’t attracting the right audience—even when your product is great? In this episode, I sit down with Lisanne Murphy, creator of Lumina Growth Lab and a master of scaling businesses using psychology-driven strategies. We explore what “dream traffic” actually means, why not all leads are created equal, and how understanding your audience’s behavior can cut acquisition costs in half.You’ll learn:Why demographic targeting isn't enoughHow to shift your messaging in response to market dynamicsThe psychology behind scroll-stopping contentStrategic slowing down for better business clarityTimestamp:00:00 Introduction to Psychological Marketing01:04 Meet Lizanne Murphy: Scaling Businesses with Psychology02:07 Understanding Dream Traffic09:12 Psychological Triggers for Immediate Action17:06 The Importance of Slowing Down for Business Success22:50 Conclusion and Ways to ConnectIf you’re a business owner, coach, or entrepreneur looking to grow smarter—not harder—this episode is a must-listen.Tune in now to discover how to turn dream traffic into loyal clients. Visit Lisanne Murphy:Website: https://themarketingmatrixpodcast.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisanne-murphyLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Starting a podcast is easy—but building one that shortens your sales cycle, drives high-ticket leads, and supports your business? That’s a different game.In this episode, Katie sits down with Megan Dougherty of One Stone Creative to unpack the business strategy behind podcasting. They dive into podcast value math, why most shows fail to convert, and how to create episodes that become evergreen sales tools.What You’ll Learn:How to design a podcast that fits your business goalsWhy 12-15 focused episodes might be more powerful than 100 inconsistent onesThe real KPIs that drive ROI (hint: it’s not downloads)When (and how) to turn your podcast into a strategic referral engineTimestamps:00:00 Introduction and Podcasting Strategy Overview01:08 Guest Introduction: Megan Doherty02:06 Common Misconceptions About Podcasting03:47 Designing a Podcast for Business Outcomes05:10 Shortening the Sales Cycle with Podcasts08:05 Entertainment vs. Business Podcasts09:56 Measuring Podcast Success13:54 Business Podcast Blueprints and State of Business Podcasting Report21:07 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationWant to create a podcast that does more than entertain? Visit podcastingforbusiness.com for Megan’s full blueprint. DM Katie on LinkedIn if you want help bringing your podcast strategy to life.Visit Megan Dougherty online:Website: http://podcastingforbusiness.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doughertymegan/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-business-podcast-spotlight/id1801282981Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, host Katie Brinkley speaks with Jeff Holman, founder of Intellectual Strategies and a seasoned attorney who helps startups and growing businesses navigate the tricky legal terrain of entrepreneurship. They dive into the most common legal mistakes founders make, such as skipping trademark registration, not having the right agreements in place, and relying too heavily on AI-generated contracts.Jeff explains why legal protection isn't just for "later" and how foundational documents like founder agreements and offer letters can save entrepreneurs time, money, and stress down the road. From trademark myths to fractional legal teams, this episode is packed with actionable insights for small business owners ready to scale smart and safe.What You’ll Learn:Why skipping trademark registration could cost you big laterThe difference between branding assets and trademark-worthy materialsWhen and why to use founder agreements or offer lettersWhy AI-generated legal documents can hurt more than helpHow to plan your legal strategy based on where your business is headedTimestamps:00:00 – Intro03:15 – Why trademarks matter more than you think08:40 – Avoiding partnership disasters14:00 – The AI trap: what not to DIY legally20:00 – How to structure legal support as you grow28:15 – What questions to ask during your first legal consult34:00 – Closing thoughts and next stepsReady to stop guessing and start protecting your business the right way?Hit play on this episode and walk away with actionable legal strategies that every founder, coach, or creator must know. Don’t wait until it’s too late—your brand deserves to be protected from the start.Subscribe to Rocky Mountain Marketing for more expert-backed tips on growing your business with confidence. And if you found this episode valuable, share it with another entrepreneur who needs to hear this today.Your business is worth protecting—start now.Visit Jeff Holman online:Website: https://www.intellectualstrategies.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holman/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m joined by Sara Nay—CEO at Duct Tape Marketing—to dive into a smarter, more sustainable way to grow your business with strategy-first content.We’re talking about what most business owners get wrong when it comes to content, how the Marketing Hourglass can change the way you view your sales journey, and how AI and automation can elevate—not replace—your marketing.Whether you're a solopreneur, service provider, or marketer stuck in the "post more!" cycle, this episode will show you how to simplify your efforts and focus on what actually moves the needle.What You’ll Learn:The 7 stages of the Marketing HourglassWhy your existing clients are your greatest marketing assetHow AI can help create smarter content (and where not to use it)How to use buyer behavior data to drive your next campaignTimestamps00:00 – Intro: Meet Sara Nay02:10 – What is the Marketing Hourglass?06:45 – Common mistakes in content strategy10:30 – How to use AI for smarter marketing13:50 – Automating the customer journey18:15 – Turning customers into referral machines22:00 – Final advice for simplifying your strategyTune in now and stop creating content that goes nowhere!Visit Sara Nay online:Website: https://ducttapemarketing.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saranayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ducttapemarketingvideoLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’ve been pouring money into Facebook ads with zero return or relying on Google only to end up buried on page three, it’s time for a shift. In this episode, I sit down with digital marketing veteran Marilyn Jenkins, founder of MJ Media Group, who’s been helping local businesses scale since before most people had email.She breaks down exactly how local businesses are getting 14X ROI using streaming TV ads, how to target zip codes like a sniper, and why Google Business Profile is your make-or-break moment.If you want your business in front of your ideal customer while they’re binge-watching Roku or Tubi, this episode is for you.Key Takeaways:Streaming TV ads are non-skippable and more cost-effective than you thinkYou can target specific zip codes, languages, and behaviorsYour Google Business Profile must be optimized before launching adsLocal businesses—from real estate agents to home services—are seeing massive ROIStrategy without execution is just noise. Pick one thing from this episode and take action.Timestamps:00:03 – Why your digital ads aren’t converting02:00 – Meet Marilyn Jenkins: Digital OG with 14X ROI results04:08 – Why brand visibility is more important than ever06:44 – Streaming ads are the new TV gold rush08:40 – How to get started (even with a small budget)10:05 – Targeting by zip code, language, and behavior13:00 – The streaming networks you need to know14:22 – Cost comparison: Streaming TV vs Facebook vs Google20:53 – Biggest mistake small businesses make with TV ads22:41 – Why your Google Business Profile is non-negotiable24:12 – Final thoughts and how to get startedHere’s a challenge for you - audit your digital presence—starting with your Google Business Profile.Follow Rocky Mountain Marketing and share this episode with someone still running ads without a plan.Visit Marilyn Jenkins online:Website: https://marilynjenkins.online/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marilynjenkins/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawmarketingzone/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lawmarketingzoneLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Raise your hand if you've ever said, “I'll figure it out later.” Spoiler: later often turns into never—and as entrepreneurs, that’s a recipe for burnout. On today’s episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m joined by business operations strategist Jessica Millhiser, founder of J Mills Consulting. With nearly two decades of experience in operations, leadership, and coaching, she’s on a mission to help entrepreneurs shift from reactive to strategic using her five foundational pillars: business identity, client experience, business organization, team growth, and strategic planning.Whether you’re stuck in the weeds of your to-do list, unclear on your version of success, or overwhelmed trying to scale your team—this episode will help you design the business you actually want.Grab a pen, because this one’s full of actionable wisdom that will get you out of your head and moving forward in real-time.Key Takeaways:Why “business identity” is deeper than a mission statement—and how to embody itJessica’s 5 Pillars for sustainable growth (and what most entrepreneurs skip)How defining your version of success leads to confident decision-makingThe truth about effective delegation and building the right teamStrategic planning tips that help you stay focused (and stop chasing shiny objects)Timestamps:00:00 – Katie’s 3 a.m. idea problem (sound familiar?)01:45 – Meet Jessica Millhiser of J Mills Consulting04:13 – What is your business identity, really?10:39 – The 5 foundational pillars of sustainable growth14:47 – Growing your team? Here’s what most founders miss21:06 – Designing the business you want24:53 – Actionable steps to take this weekThis week’s challenge: Take 20 minutes to get one idea out of your head and onto paper—whether it’s a to-do list, a client journey map, or your version of success. Clarity comes from action.If this episode brought you clarity, insight, or even just a deep exhale—please hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow entrepreneur.Visit Jessica Millhiser online:Website: https://www.jmillsconsulting.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicamillhiser/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jmills_consulting/Email: jessica@jmillsconsulting.comLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#RockyMountainMarketing #SmallBusinessStrategy #EntrepreneurshipTips #BusinessOperations #TeamGrowth #StrategicPlanning #BusinessSuccess #Podcast #BusinessOperations #ScaleYourBusiness #KatieBrinkley Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Here’s a question I’ve been asking clients—and myself: What if posting less actually gets you more traction?In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m peeling back the curtain on how my team at Next Step Social scaled back on content volume, leaned into intentional engagement, and won two international creative awards in the process. This is the exact strategy that’s helping our clients spark real conversations, build trust, and turn community into conversions—all without posting every single day.If you’re tired of the content treadmill, or if your current strategy feels like more noise than impact, this episode is for you.Key Takeaways:Why high-volume posting is not the key to engagementThe “Four Post Strategy” that changed everything for usHow intentional content creates deeper connectionsWhat winning two Hermes Creative Awards means for content strategyWhy it’s time to shift from chaos to connection in your marketingTimestamps:00:03 – Can posting less actually grow your business?01:00 – Why you don’t need to be on all five platforms02:20 – What is the Four Post Strategy?03:45 – The results: more DMs, comments, and conversions04:25 – How Next Step Social won 2 gold Hermes Creative Awards06:00 – The real reason this strategy works06:45 – Invitation to work with Next Step SocialReady to simplify your content while growing your business?Let’s talk strategy → yournextstep.agencyDM me on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook. Let’s connect!Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#IntentionalMarketing #ContentStrategy #SocialMediaGrowth #MarketingWithPurpose #KatieBrinkley #RockyMountainMarketing #FourPostStrategy #SocialMediaSimplified #Podcast #HermesAward #EngagementStrategy Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.