Rocky Mountain Marketing- Digital Marketing for Entrepreneurs

Have you ever opened your podcast dashboard, looked at your downloads, and instantly judged whether your show was successful?If you’re like most podcasters, those numbers can start telling a story in your head. Sometimes it’s encouraging. Other times it’s discouraging.But here’s the problem: most podcasters misunderstand what their statistics actually mean.In this solo episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I break down how podcast analytics really work and why focusing on downloads alone can lead you to make the wrong decisions about your show.Key TakeawaysDownloads don’t necessarily equal listenersPodcast analytics come from multiple platformsListener retention reveals real engagementCompletion rate shows whether your content resonatesSubscriber growth signals long-term audience trustTimestamp:00:00 – Why Podcasters Misinterpret Their Analytics01:05 – What a Podcast Download Actually Means02:20 – Why Podcast Data Comes From Multiple Platforms03:15 – Why Downloads Don’t Tell the Full Story03:40 – The Three Podcast Metrics That Matter03:55 – Listener Retention and Engagement04:20 – Completion Rate and Content Quality04:45 – Why Subscribers Are Your Most Valuable AudienceIf you’re an entrepreneur using podcasting as part of your marketing strategy, this episode will help you shift your perspective and start evaluating your podcast success the right way.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/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 create content that not only ranks on Google but actually converts customers?With search algorithms constantly evolving, AI reshaping how people discover information, and attention spans shorter than ever, the traditional content marketing playbook simply doesn’t work the way it used to.In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with Andy Crestodina, co-founder of Orbit Media and author of Content Chemistry, to unpack what’s actually working in content marketing, SEO, and AI-driven discovery right now.Key TakeawaysQuality content beats high-volume publishingOriginal research strengthens SEO authorityLinkedIn newsletters can rapidly grow your audienceAI search is reshaping brand discoveryContent should support the sales processTimestamp:[00:00:00] – Introduction & Meet Andy Crestodina[00:02:45] – Biggest Content Marketing Shifts in 2025[00:04:45] – LinkedIn Newsletters vs Email Lists[00:07:20] – Content That Actually Stands Out (Original Research & Thought Leadership)[00:10:20] – Why SEO Traffic Is Changing & The Rise of AI Search[00:14:20] – Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) & AI-Friendly Websites[00:18:20] – Using AI for Content Strategy, Research, and Marketing[00:29:00] – Turning Content Into Sales & Higher ConversionsContent marketing today isn’t just about ranking on Google.It’s about building trust, demonstrating expertise, and creating resources that help buyers make decisions.When your content answers real questions and supports your sales conversations, it becomes far more valuable than simply driving traffic.If you want to learn how to create content that ranks, resonates, and converts, this episode with Andy Crestodina is one you won’t want to miss.Visit Andy Crestodina's social media pages:Orbit Media Studios Website: https://www.orbitmedia.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andycrestodina/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/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.

Have you ever felt weird sliding into someone’s DMs?Let’s be honest — direct messages can feel personal. Almost intrusive. And with LinkedIn spam and automated bots everywhere, it’s easy to assume that DM outreach is sleazy.But what if I told you that the DMs are actually where the magic happens?In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with Jenna Larson, co-founder of GroupTrack CRM, to talk about how entrepreneurs can turn organic social media engagement into real revenue — without ads, without going viral, and without a massive following.And the results? Over $1.2 million in revenue last year — zero ad spend.We unpack:Why going viral is overrated for business growthHow to use DMs as a relationship-building tool (not a sales trap)The simple 3-step DM framework that increases response ratesWhy most automation tools fail without follow-upHow to track leads inside Facebook and Instagram without losing your mindThe exact message template that triples responsesTimestamps:[00:00:00] – Why DMs Feel Awkward (But Drive Sales)[00:04:30] – $1.2M with No Ads or Viral Posts[00:08:05] – Why Automation Alone Doesn’t Convert[00:10:40] – The First DM You Should Always Send[00:16:00] – The 1-Line DM That Triples Responses[00:19:00] – How to Uncover Needs Without Being Pushy[00:22:00] – The Simple Follow-Up That Closes Sales[00:24:50] – How to Start DM Conversations with Small Audiences[00:28:40] – Turning 900 Followers into Revenue[00:31:30] – Where to Learn the Organic DM SystemIf you’re tired of “post and pray” marketing, this episode will completely shift how you see social media.Because the truth is — you don’t need more followers.You need better follow-up.Visit Jenna Larson's social media pages:Website: https://www.grouptrackcrm.com/homeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenna-larson-41659827/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/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 the algorithm disappeared tomorrow?What if Instagram shut down your account? What if LinkedIn throttled your reach? Would you still be able to reach your audience?In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sat down with Tracy Beavers, CEO and founder of Tracy Beavers Coaching, to talk about one of the most overlooked (yet powerful) marketing assets entrepreneurs have: your email list.Social media is visibility.But your email list? That’s ownership.Tracy and I unpack:Why social media is “rented land”The real financial risks of relying only on platformsWhat happened when Meta went down for 36 hoursHow to grow your email list organically (without burnout)Practical Facebook strategies for list buildingThe truth about lead magnets in 2026Why consistency beats complexity every timeIf you’re building your business on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, or TikTok alone, this episode will shift your entire perspective.5 Key TakeawaysSocial media builds visibility — email builds ownership.Even 400 subscribers is powerful when nurtured strategically.You only need one consistent weekly content system to grow your list.Lead magnets should include audio or video for stronger trust-building.If you don’t own your audience, you don’t own your revenue stream.Listen now and start building a marketing strategy that protects your business long term.Timestamps:00:00 The Algorithm Problem00:49 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing01:19 Meet Tracy Beavers03:05 Why Email Lists Matter06:02 When Social Media Fails08:01 Escaping Facebook Jail11:22 Starting Small Is Okay14:25 Email vs Social Media15:54 Realistic List Growth Goals17:33 Creating Weekly Content19:27 The Lead Magnet Strategy21:33 Facebook Growth Strategies22:26 Personal Profile Power25:20 Business Pages for Social Proof28:19 Best Lead Magnets Right Now31:48 Connect with Tracy33:17 Final Thoughts and Takeaways34:25 Closing and SubscribeVisit Tracy Beavers online:Website: https://www.tracybeavers.com/Facebook Group: https://tracybeavers.biz/bacekatiebpodcastThe Social Media Made Easy Guide: Create 90 Days of Content Topics in Only 30 Minutes!: https://tracybeavers.biz/90in30katiebCreate Online Success Podcast: https://www.tracybeavers.com/podcastLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/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 everything you thought you knew about social media marketing in 2026 was actually backwards?In this solo episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m breaking down the 2026 Social Media Content Strategy Report—and the data reveals something BIG.While 70% of marketers are prioritizing AI-generated content, consumers are asking for the exact opposite. They want real voices. Real connection. Real people.In this episode, I walk you through:Where brands are actually investing (Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, YouTube)Why Facebook is far from “dead”The rising importance of YouTube for product educationWhy TikTok only makes sense for certain audiencesThe massive disconnect between marketers and consumersHow to use AI for intelligence — not replacementWhat consumers truly want from brands in 2026If you’re a business owner trying to figure out where to spend your time, energy, and marketing budget this year, this episode will save you from expensive mistakes.Timestamps:00:00 Everything You Know About 2026 Social Media Might Be Backwards00:51 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing + What We’re Unpacking Today01:21 Where Brands Are Investing in 2026 (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook)04:10 Facebook Isn’t Dead: Discovery, Service & Community (Plus What to Post)05:57 Instagram’s New Role: Episodic Reels & Entertainment-First Strategy07:15 YouTube’s Big Moment: Long-Form, Product Education & Video Podcasts08:33 TikTok Reality Check: Gen Z, Search Behavior & Authenticity Wins09:53 Quick Break: How NeXTSTEP Social Helps You Simplify Your Strategy10:49 The AI Disconnect: Marketers Want Automation, Consumers Want Humans12:18 Use AI for Social Intelligence (Not Just Content) + Why Podcasts Help14:15 What Consumers Actually Want From Brands in 2026 (6 Must-Do’s)15:59 Your 2026 Action Plan: Pick Platforms, Be Human, Engage More18:38 Final Thoughts + Subscribe, Connect, and Get the BookReady to simplify your strategy and amplify your results?Visit NextStepSocial.com to build a data-backed content strategy that actually works.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/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.

If you’re feeling burned out on social media and tired of battling the algorithm, it’s time to consider building something you own—like Substack.In this episode, I’m joined by Jim Fuhs, a seasoned digital marketing strategist and Marine Corps veteran who’s gone all in on Substack. We unpack how this platform has evolved far beyond a newsletter and why it might be the most strategic move you can make in your marketing right now.Here’s what we cover in this episode:What makes Substack a powerful multimedia publishing platformHow to build a loyal email list without burnoutThe importance of owning your content and audienceCreative ways to repurpose your video, podcast, and written contentAvoiding common Substack mistakes that lead to early drop-offHow consistency and community create long-term marketing winsTimestamp:00:00 Introduction to Substack and Its Relevance01:10 Meet the Guest: Jim Fs02:04 Jim's Journey with Substack04:45 Exploring Substack's Features09:05 Substack as a Multimedia Platform14:38 Maximizing Substack's Potential25:32 Common Mistakes and Best Practices30:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts32:38 Outro and Call to ActionWhether you’re a content creator, coach, or business owner, this episode will help you take control of your marketing strategy in 2026.Visit Jim Fuhs online:Substack: https://jimfuhs.substack.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimfuhs/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/dealcastersPodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dealcasters/id1554420305Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/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 special episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down once again with my business partner and COO, Shawn Quintero, to unveil something close to our hearts: our brand new podcast—Behind the Practice.We're pulling back the curtain on how we’ve evolved as an agency, and why this new podcast is more than just another show—it’s a strategic shift designed to serve the heart of our mission: helping health and wellness experts turn their practice into a powerful, revenue-generating brand.We dive into:The origin story of Behind the PracticeWhy we’re doubling down on podcasting in 2026Our vision for serving purpose-driven entrepreneursHow storytelling can scale trust and conversionsThe importance of niching down and building aligned mediaTimestamp:00:00 Introduction and Announcement00:34 Meet the Co-Owner: Sean Quintero02:32 Behind the Practice: Concept and Purpose03:48 Personal Stories and Impact06:51 Target Audience and Unique Approach09:11 Podcast as a Marketing Tool24:32 Operationalizing Your Podcast26:06 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsWhether you're in the health and wellness space or an entrepreneur looking to scale your visibility, this episode is packed with insights you can use.Ready to see what’s Behind the Practice? Tune in now and discover how a podcast can become your most powerful business asset.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://www.nextstepsocial.com/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 break down one of the most critical changes we’ve seen on TikTok in a while. With new ownership under the U.S.-based TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, retrained algorithms, and updated Terms of Service, business owners and creators are rightfully asking: Should I still be investing time here? I walk you through what these updates mean, how to respond strategically, and the crucial distinction between your marketing content and your business assets. If TikTok is part of your growth strategy, this is a must-listen.5 Key Takeaways:TikTok’s U.S. Ownership Shift: TikTok is now operating under a U.S.-based corporate entity, with ByteDance holding less than 20%. This impacts data governance and the algorithm retraining process.Retrained Algorithm, Real Impact: If your reach is fluctuating, it might not be your content—it’s the recalibrated algorithm learning new engagement priorities.New Terms of Service: TikTok now has broader content licensing language, explicitly allowing your content to be used for machine learning and platform improvement. This is standard across platforms but now more transparent.Don’t Use Social as a Storage Vault: Uploading high-value assets, drafts, or proprietary content to TikTok (or any platform) is risky. Treat your business content with strategy and caution.Build an Exit Ramp Now: Grow your email list, promote your podcast or YouTube channel, and make sure TikTok isn’t your only traffic engine. Don’t build on rented land.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/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 my partner-in-purpose (and co-owner of Next Step Social), Shawn Quintero, to break down how we’re using Lunch and Learn workshops to bring business owners and their teams clarity, confidence, and actionable results—without sales pressure or shiny-object overwhelm.As we kick off 2026, we’re leaning into education-first marketing and showing business leaders how to activate their teams, build trust through content, and show up consistently on social—organically and strategically.5 Key Takeaways:Lunch and Learns aren’t new—but we’ve modernized the model to create immediate wins for business teams through actionable, in-person training.The Internal Influencer Strategy helps businesses leverage their own staff as the face of content—building more trust, more reach, and more results.Confidence is the biggest ROI. When teams feel empowered, they take ownership and drive brand visibility organically.It’s not a pitch. These workshops are designed for value-first connection and education—not upsells.Clarity beats complexity. We ditch bloated frameworks and instead provide simple, repeatable content strategies that any team member can start implementing that day.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction: The Need for Clarity in Marketing00:52 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing01:21 Meet Sean Ero: COO and Co-Owner of NeXTSTEP Social02:02 The Concept of Lunch and Learns02:32 The Evolution and Impact of Lunch and Learns03:27 Training Staff to Leverage Social Media03:59 The Role of Internal Influencers04:42 Hands-On Training and Immediate Results05:36 Education-First Marketing Philosophy06:10 Differentiating Our Lunch and Learns06:48 Bridging the Education Gap and Accelerating Sales09:29 Empowering Teams with Clarity and Confidence12:20 Balancing Education and Sales15:26 Building Trust and Relationships20:28 Conclusion: The Power of Clarity and Relationships21:29 Outro: Stay Connected and Keep LearningVisit 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://www.nextstepsocial.com/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, I sat down with Lianna Patch, a conversion copywriter and comedian, to talk about what really makes content convert in 2026—humor, voice, and human connection. With so much AI-generated content out there, the businesses that win are the ones who sound like themselves.We dive into practical ways to make your copy more engaging, where AI fits into the mix, and why the funniest brands tend to be the most memorable.Key Takeaways:Safe copy is forgettable—don’t be afraid to polarize.Humor can be subtle and still powerful.AI can help draft but you need to inject voice and value.Specific copy sells—ditch vague industry buzzwords.Writing should be fun—because fun converts.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Engaging Copywriting00:51 Meet Our Guest: Leanna Patch02:07 The Role of Humor in Marketing03:21 AI vs. Human Copywriting04:42 Using Humor Effectively in Copy06:22 Challenges and Opportunities with AI08:26 Practical Tips for Better Copywriting18:06 Upcoming Workshop and Resources23:31 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsWhether you’re writing email funnels or social captions, this episode is your permission slip to sound like a human again.Visit Lianna Patch's social media pages:Website: https://punchlinecopy.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liannapatchWanna have more fun on stage? https://punchlinecopy.com/speak-funny-training/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 solo episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m diving into something that’s been on every entrepreneur’s mind this year: do goals still matter in 2026? The world is changing fast, and with the rise of AI, shifting priorities, and burnout creeping in, it’s easy to lose sight of your direction.But here’s the truth: goals still matter—when you know how to set them right.I’ll share how to:Get crystal-clear on your directional goalsPush through the doubt that creeps inRecommit to goals that align with who you are (not just what everyone else is doing)Use the momentum of Q1 to build sustainable progress—not just productivityTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: Embracing the Uncertainty of Goal Setting00:38 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing01:08 The Reality of Goal Setting in 202604:29 The Importance of Writing Down Goals09:33 Setting Directional Goals10:34 Marketing Goals for 202611:39 Behavior Goals: The Key to Consistency14:23 The Role of AI in Achieving Goals20:28 Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Time and Staying Focused21:54 Conclusion and Call to ActionIf you’re looking to reclaim your focus, strengthen your strategy, and finally commit to what matters this year, this episode is for you.Let’s reset your strategy for 2026 and start taking aligned action—together.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.

As 2025 wraps up, I’m taking you behind the data to reveal the top 10 most downloaded episodes of Rocky Mountain Marketing this year—and the biggest theme that kept emerging: trust-first strategy over trends.In this year-end special, you’ll hear from brilliant guests like Gordon Firemark, Megan Dougherty, Mike Swenson, Lisanne Murphy, Sarah Nay, and more. We cover everything from building trust in the age of AI, creating human-first content, crisis-proofing your brand, to leveraging SEO and podcasting for sustainable growth.If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by marketing "shoulds"—this episode is your permission slip to slow down and get strategic.In this episode, you'll learn:What 2025 taught us about audience trust and authentic marketingWhy AI without strategy won't work in the long runHow to get more ROI from your marketing effortsHow your podcast can become a powerful business driverWhat real business owners did to simplify, grow, and lead effectivelyTimestamps:00:00 Reflecting on a Year of Intentional Marketing00:21 Introduction to Rocky Mountain Marketing00:51 Year-End Review: Key Insights from 202502:18 Top 10 Episodes Countdown: Legal Protection for Podcasters05:54 Podcast Blueprints for Business Success08:54 Crisis-Proofing Your Brand11:45 Transforming Your Website into a Sales Machine15:29 Sustainable Growth Strategies for Small Businesses18:19 Using Psychology to Attract Dream Clients20:40 Finding Clarity and Passion in Entrepreneurship21:37 Getting Your Local Business on Google's First Page25:25 Human-First AI Marketing with Mike Monte29:06 Turning Cold DMs into Warm Conversations33:54 Trust-First Marketing Without Posting Every Day38:44 Final Thoughts and Year-End ReflectionsWhether you're a long-time listener or new to the show, this recap is packed with timeless advice to guide your 2026 strategy.Hit follow and subscribe now to make sure you don’t miss the powerful conversations we have coming next year!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.

Let me guess—you didn’t start your business to spend hours copying and pasting, chasing down leads, or drowning in admin work. In this episode, I sit down with Mike Allton, Director of Partner-Led Growth at Agorapulse and founder of The AI Hat, to uncover how AI can truly give you back your most valuable resource: time.We break down how to move beyond using AI just for content creation and explore how it can reduce “admin drag,” support revenue-driving activities, and elevate your strategic thinking. Mike shares what revenue architecture really means and how solopreneurs and sales teams can use AI to scale smarter—not louder.If you’re ready to reclaim your schedule and protect the human side of your business, this episode is your roadmap.What You’ll Learn:What “admin drag” is and why it’s killing your creativityHow to audit your workflow and identify where AI can support youThe difference between AI as a replacement vs. a revenue partnerHow AI can free up emotional energy and rebuild trustPractical examples of AI in sales and proposal processesWhat the “revenue architecture” framework actually looks likeWhy reclaiming your time is the new ROITimestamps:00:00 Introduction: The AI Time-Saving Revolution00:34 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing01:04 The Real Opportunity with AI01:46 Introducing Mike Alton: AI and Revenue Architecture02:37 Understanding Admin Drag and AI Solutions05:23 The Role of AI in Sales and Marketing08:12 Implementing AI: Practical Steps and Benefits18:57 Revenue Architecture: Integrating AI into Processes25:18 The True ROI of AI: Time and Trust33:49 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysReady to take back your time?Subscribe to Rocky Mountain Marketing and never miss an episode packed with strategies to scale your business with purpose—and less stress.Visit Mike Allton's social media pages:Website: https://theaihat.com/connect/Agorapulse: https://www.agorapulse.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikealltonLearn 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 makes some creators cut through the noise while others just… fade into the scroll?In this week’s episode, I sit down with Jay Acunzo, international speaker, storytelling coach, and the mastermind behind the “resonance over reach” philosophy. Jay has worked with brands like Google, HubSpot, and ESPN—and today, he shares what really helps coaches, creators, and business leaders connect with their audience in a meaningful, profitable way.We talk about how to uncover clarity in your message, why most “signature talks” miss the mark, and how you can structure your communication to inspire change—not just attention.If you’re trying to grow your thought leadership, book speaking gigs, or create content that sticks, this conversation is a masterclass.What you'll learn:Why clarity is more important than consistencyThe 4-part storytelling framework to boost resonanceHow to refine your thought leadership on LinkedInThe right way to test, tweak, and ship your ideasWhy a "signature talk" is really an argument for changeTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: The Key to Effortless Attention00:27 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing00:58 Introducing Jay Acunzo: Master of Clarity06:43 The Importance of Public Speaking14:12 Crafting Memorable Stories19:19 The Four Beats of Storytelling19:54 Align: Understanding Your Audience20:07 Agitate: Highlighting the Problems21:00 Assert: Presenting Your Solution21:32 Invite: Engaging Your Audience22:36 The Importance of Personal Branding23:14 Finding Your Unique Speaking Voice24:28 The Role of Authenticity in Speaking25:59 Developing and Refining Your Ideas28:37 Practical Tips for Nervous Speakers31:17 The Power of a Creative Practice33:31 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsTune in now, and let’s help you build a message that actually moves people.Visit Jay Acunzo online:Website: https://jayacunzo.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayacunzo/Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-stories-happen/id1736586770Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/jayacunzoLearn 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.

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.