Digital Coffee: Marketing Brew

Sue Patz drops some serious knowledge in this chat about the ups and downs of being a solopreneur. After facing a life-altering challenge that gave her a "bonus life," she pivoted her career to help others crush their online business goals. The convo dives into the harsh reality that while money can be regained, time lost is a whole different beast you can't get back. Sue emphasizes the importance of action and attention, revealing that real results come from investing both resources and effort into one’s business. She’s all about saving solopreneurs time with her killer strategies, like her “business in a box” offer that lets folks skip the long grind and start seeing revenue fast. Tune in for some witty banter and practical tips that can help solo hustlers level up their game without burning out!Takeaways: Speaker A talks about how overcoming personal challenges led to a passion for helping solopreneurs succeed, emphasizing that recovery felt like a bonus life that reshaped their career goals. The importance of paying attention and taking action is highlighted, as Speaker A insists that results and transformations only come when effort is put in, especially for entrepreneurs. Time is a fleeting resource, as Speaker A points out; while money can be regained, lost time cannot, stressing the need for solopreneurs to act decisively and efficiently. Speaker A shares their experience of creating practical tools for solopreneurs, such as a 'business in a box' concept designed to expedite the revenue generation process from the get-go. Through their journey, Speaker A has seen that many solopreneurs struggle to take action without investing something, leading to the realization that paid resources often yield better results than free ones. The discussion on AI's role in digital marketing reveals that it should be treated as a tool rather than a replacement; personalization and human touch remain essential in creating effective content.

The spotlight's on local SEO in this episode, where they dive deep into how reviews can totally make or break a business’s online presence. Speaker A kicks things off by dropping some serious knowledge, emphasizing that it's not just about appeasing Google—it's about what customers think and feel. He’s all about putting the user first, which he believes is the secret sauce for climbing those search rankings. They chat about the emotional rollercoaster that comes with reviews, pointing out that while bad reviews can come in hot and heavy, getting those golden good ones is a task that often feels like pulling teeth. With wit and charm, they explore the nuances of local SEO, highlighting the importance of keeping your Google Business Profile in tip-top shape and the power of content in building trust with potential customers. Buckle up, because this convo is packed with gold nuggets for anyone looking to up their local game!What You'll Learn:The biggest misconceptions about local SEO and how they impact your bottom lineWhat separates businesses that dominate local search from those that remain invisibleStrategies for consistent local rankings across different service areasThe crucial role of reviews in local SEO and how to get more positive onesThe future of local SEO and emerging trends to watchTakeaways: Local SEO thrives on reviews, it's not just a Google thing but a user trust thing. Understanding marketing channels is key; ignorance can cost local businesses big time. User signals, like engagement and reviews, are increasingly vital for local SEO success. Content helps Google know what you do; it’s a powerful tool for visibility online. Putting the user first, then Google, is the mantra for effective SEO strategies. Multiple locations in SEO require careful planning to avoid self-cannibalization of search presence. Links referenced in this episode:brightbeam SEO.com@brightbeam SEOCompanies mentioned in this episode: Google Bright Beam SEO Waze

Diving deep into the realm of social media, the podcast features a dynamic duo—Brett and his guest, Amy, a bona fide whiz in content strategy. They kick off with some light-hearted banter over their beverage preferences (coffee wins over tea, obviously), but soon enough, they plunge into the nitty-gritty of social media content strategy. Amy emphasizes the importance of data-driven insights, advocating for a curious mindset when analyzing metrics. She reveals her systematic approach to dissecting high and low-performing posts, encouraging listeners to identify patterns that can inform future strategies. Curious minds will find her breakdown of what truly drives engagement—hint: it’s not just about likes and comments, but rather the deeper, often unquantifiable connections that content fosters. As they navigate the intricate web of social media marketing, Amy highlights the shift towards authentic, human-centric content, especially in an age where AI is making waves. The episode wraps up with some sage advice on leveraging AI without losing the personal touch, reminding marketers to remain vigilant and engaged with their audience. A must-listen for anyone looking to elevate their social media game!Takeaways: In this episode, Brett and Amy dive deep into social media content strategy, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and data analysis in refining approaches to content creation. Amy highlights how understanding the metrics behind social media posts can transform vague data into actionable insights, ultimately driving better engagement and results for brands. The conversation stresses that while AI tools are handy for content creation, they should supplement—not replace—human intuition and critical thinking in the strategy process. Brett and Amy discuss the shifting landscape of social media, predicting a greater demand for genuine human connection as automated content becomes more prevalent. Amy illustrates her systematic approach to evaluating post performance, suggesting marketers should identify patterns in both high and low-performing content to optimize future strategies. The duo concludes that adapting to AI's capabilities while maintaining a personal touch in content can create a unique brand identity that resonates more with audiences. Companies mentioned in this episode: Buffer

Brett Deister and Seth Goldstein are diving deep into the wild world of podcasting, and trust me, it’s a rollercoaster. Right off the bat, they tackle the nitty-gritty of what marketers really need to know about getting their brands onto the airwaves. Seth, a seasoned podcaster and digital marketer, spills the tea on how metrics are shifting from downloads to streams, and why that matters for anyone looking to sponsor a podcast. They banter about the importance of finding the right niche shows, because let’s be real, no one wants to throw cash at the next Joe Rogan when you could score a sweet spot on a smaller show that actually resonates with your target audience. With a sprinkle of humor and a heap of insight, they make it clear that getting into podcasting—whether as a creator or a sponsor—is still a golden opportunity, and definitely not too late to join the party!Takeaways: Seth Goldstein has been in the podcasting game since 2010, making him a seasoned pro, and he views it as the second renaissance of the medium. The discussion around podcast sponsorship emphasizes the importance of finding niche audiences instead of chasing mainstream giants like Joe Rogan. Goldstein advises marketers to focus less on downloads and more on engagement metrics, like streaming, as the landscape of podcast consumption shifts. He also highlights the need for patience in podcast marketing, suggesting that businesses should commit to campaigns for at least three to six months for tangible results. The podcasting space is predicted to continue growing, with Goldstein asserting there's still plenty of room for new voices, so don’t stress about starting too late. Lastly, he emphasizes the value of word-of-mouth marketing, especially when participating as a guest on other shows, as this can drive significant audience growth. Companies mentioned in this episode: Goldstein Media Tea Republic Republic of Tea Apple Podcast Pod Chaser Sirius Spotify YouTube Captivate 11 Labs Paleo Valley Links referenced in this episode:SethGoldstein MeGoldstein MediaPodcast Mastery

Are you struggling to make your B2B marketing efforts truly effective? In this episode of Digital Coffee Marketing Brew, I sit down with Brandi Starr, Chief Operating Officer at Tegrita, to explore innovative strategies for boosting your B2B marketing game.Brandi shares her expertise on orchestrating customer journeys and leveraging the power of marketing automation to drive revenue. We dive into:Uncovering Hidden Opportunities in the B2B LandscapeLearn how to identify and exploit gaps in your marketing funnel, especially in that crucial middle stage between initial interest and sales-ready leads. Brandi reveals:Why focusing solely on top-of-funnel activities isn't enoughThe importance of nurturing leads beyond just a few emailsHow even small improvements in conversion rates can yield significant resultsStrategies for Engaging the Entire Buying CommitteeDiscover tactics for reaching all stakeholders involved in B2B purchasing decisions, including:Targeting often-overlooked members like IT professionals and CFOsLeveraging ad targeting and SDR outreach to expand your reachPersonalizing your approach based on each stakeholder's role and concernsThe AI Revolution in B2B MarketingGet the inside scoop on how artificial intelligence is transforming the B2B landscape:Using AI for enhanced research and personalizationImplementing AI agents to streamline workflowsBalancing automation with human oversight for optimal resultsStaying Ahead in a Rapidly Changing LandscapeBrandi offers valuable advice for marketers looking to keep pace with evolving trends:The importance of experimenting with AI in low-risk scenariosWhy human connection is making a comeback in the age of automationHow focusing on marketing fundamentals can yield surprising resultsWhether you're a seasoned B2B marketer or just starting out, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you attract, convert, and retain customers more effectively. Tune in to learn how to navigate the intersection of strategy, creativity, and technology in modern B2B marketing.Links referenced in this episode:LinkedInRevenue Rehab liveCompanies mentioned in this episode: Integra Tegrita ZoomInfo Demandbase

In today's digital landscape, marketers face a whirlwind of challenges - from navigating cultural shifts to leveraging cutting-edge tech. How can we stay ahead of the curve without stumbling into PR disasters?I sat down with Dominic Scafidi, marketing consultant and business development lead at Logical Media Group, to explore the intersection of marketing, politics, and technology. We dug into some meaty topics that are reshaping our industry:Balancing Edgy Marketing with Cultural SensitivityDominic shared insights on:Why some brands are embracing "adversarial marketing"The pitfalls of chasing trends vs. staying authenticHow local engagement can build genuine connectionsThe AI Revolution in MarketingWe discussed the rapid evolution of AI and its impact:Federal regulations on the horizonEthical concerns as AI capabilities expandSafeguarding human creativity in key marketing areasNuclear Power and the Future of TechAn unexpected but crucial topic:The link between AI advancement and energy demandsThe resurgence of nuclear power for tech innovationBalancing progress with safety concernsGame-Changing Tools for MarketersDominic revealed his top picks:How Apollo.io is revolutionizing B2B outreachLeveraging LinkedIn for marketing insightsThe value of diverse information sourcesLooking Ahead: Marketing in 2030We wrapped up with predictions for the future:Potential paths for AI developmentConcerns about misinformation and "headless content"The importance of authenticity in a bot-driven worldThis episode is packed with actionable insights for marketers navigating our rapidly changing landscape. Whether you're curious about AI ethics, nuclear power's role in tech, or simply how to stay ahead of marketing trends, you'll find plenty to chew on.So grab your favorite brew (iced coffee, anyone?) and join us for a thought-provoking discussion on the future of marketing in our increasingly complex world.Links referenced in this episode:Logical Media GroupPolitics PeoplesubstackIndependentTikTokCompanies mentioned in this episode: Logical Media Group Nespresso Keurig Wendy's Bud Light Apollo HubSpot

Ever feel like SEO is a mysterious black box? You're not alone. In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on search engine optimization with Jason Berkowitz, founder and CEO of Break the Web.Jason shares his refreshing approach to SEO that puts users first and demystifies the process for in-house marketing teams. He explains why old-school tactics like keyword stuffing are out, and how focusing on solving real customer problems leads to better rankings.Key Insights on Modern SEOWhy light roast coffee packs more caffeine than dark (who knew?)The evolving role of link building in 2024 and beyondHow to balance engaging content with search optimization Smart ways to leverage AI for SEO without losing the human touchJason also weighs in on the future of search, including voice and AI-powered tools. He offers a bold prediction on where SEO is headed and how content creators can stay relevant.Actionable Takeaways:Focus on middle and bottom-funnel content to drive conversionsLet data guide your SEO strategy, not shiny object syndromeIntegrate SEO with other marketing initiatives for maximum impactAdapt your content for emerging tech like voice searchWhether you're an SEO newbie or a seasoned pro, you'll come away with fresh perspectives to level up your organic search game. So grab your favorite brew (light roast, anyone?) and get ready for some caffeinated SEO wisdom!Support Digital Coffee: Marketing Brew Merch/Website/Social Links:FacebookInstagramThreadsWebsiteMerchTikTok YouTubeRumbleSubscribe to the podcast!

Ready to supercharge your local SEO game? Buckle up, because we're diving deep into the evolving world of search optimization with expert Bradley Benner. In this episode, we explore how AI and large language models are reshaping the SEO landscape, and what it means for local businesses trying to stand out in their markets.The Shift from Traditional SEO to "Search Everywhere Optimization"Bradley breaks down why the old playbook for local SEO is becoming obsolete. With the rise of AI-powered search and chat platforms, businesses need to think beyond just Google. We discuss:Why Google Business Profiles are still crucial, but no longer enough on their ownThe growing importance of optimizing for multiple search channels and platformsHow to balance ethical SEO practices with achieving real results for clientsContent Strategy for the AI AgeGet ready for a paradigm shift in how we approach content for local businesses. Bradley shares insights on:Why branded content is now king for local SEOThe dangers of content bloat and how to streamline your siteSmart ways to repurpose content across multiple formats and platformsBuilding "branded location authority" through strategic content distributionPractical Tips for Local Business OwnersDon't miss Bradley's actionable advice for navigating the changing SEO landscape:How to audit your site for efficiency and prune unnecessary contentThe two most critical factors for local search success right nowWhy mastering foundational marketing principles is more important than everCreative ways to reach your target audience beyond traditional searchWhether you're a seasoned SEO pro or a local business owner trying to boost your online presence, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you stay ahead of the curve. Bradley's blend of technical know-how and marketing savvy offers a fresh perspective on thriving in the age of AI-powered search.Curious to learn more? Tune in and discover how to future-proof your local SEO strategy!

Are you struggling to keep up with the ever-changing landscape of digital advertising? You're not alone. In this episode of Digital Coffee Marketing Brew, I sit down with Chuck Olsen, founder of RKSTR Media and a seasoned media buyer who's managed over $40 million in ad spend.Chuck shares his insights on performance marketing, the latest trends, and how to optimize your digital ad campaigns for maximum impact. Whether you're a small business owner or a seasoned marketer, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies to elevate your digital advertising game.Key Takeaways:The core principles of performance marketing for beginnersExciting trends reshaping the industry, including AI-driven campaign optimizationStrategies for driving results in digital ad campaignsBalancing experimentation and stability when scaling in competitive spacesEssential tools and platforms for managing and optimizing campaignsSpotlight on Quality TrafficChuck emphasizes the importance of focusing on high-quality traffic rather than just broad targeting. He explains how to use advanced techniques like lookalike audiences and specific objectives to attract the right customers to your business.The Future of Digital AdvertisingDespite challenges in tracking and attribution, Chuck predicts a bright future for digital advertising. He discusses how automation and AI will create new opportunities for marketers who can adapt and oversee these technologies effectively."Where AI or automation might take away something, it's going to create opportunities that open up from that as well."Don't miss Chuck's final thoughts on staying forward-thinking in the ever-evolving world of digital marketing. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to sharpen their digital advertising skills and stay ahead of the curve.

Ever feel like your personal brand is just a jumble of buzzwords and empty promises? You're not alone. In this episode of Digital Coffee Marketing Brew, I sit down with Alan McLaren, co-founder of Strata Originals Co, to unpack the art of authentic personal branding.Alan's approach is refreshingly different. Forget about chasing viral trends or crafting the perfect elevator pitch. Instead, he advocates for a deeper, more meaningful strategy that starts with self-discovery and ends with genuine connections.Uncovering Your SuperpowerAlan shares his unique process for helping CEOs, executives, and entrepreneurs identify their true strengths:The power of external perspective in self-reflectionWhy honesty with yourself is crucial (and often challenging)How to move beyond surface-level branding to uncover your authentic voiceContent Creation That ResonatesOnce you've identified your unique strengths, how do you share them with the world? Alan breaks down his approach:Treating your content strategy like writing a book (without the pressure)The power of video in building authentic connectionsWhy perfection isn't the goal and what isBuilding Trust, Not SellingPerhaps the most valuable insight Alan shares is his perspective on "selling" through personal branding:Why traditional sales tactics often backfire in the digital spaceThe long game of relationship-building (and why it's worth it)Real examples of how authentic connection leads to business opportunitiesThis conversation is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to develop a personal brand that truly reflects who they are. Whether you're just starting out or looking to refine your existing strategy, Alan's insights will help you approach personal branding with intention and authenticity."Your personal brand shows up in the room before you do, and it stays there when you leave." - Alan McLarenReady to discover your superpower and share it with the world? Tune in to this episode and learn how to build a personal brand that's uniquely, authentically you.

Ever feel like your LinkedIn profile is just collecting digital dust? You're not alone! In this episode, I chat with Al Kushner, bestselling author and LinkedIn growth strategist, about transforming your professional presence on the platform.Optimizing Your Profile for ImpactWhy your profile is your digital first impressionKey elements that make profiles stand outThe often-overlooked power of recommendationsContent Creation StrategiesWhy video is a game-changer on LinkedInThe ideal length for maximum engagementHow AI can supercharge your content gameCommon LinkedIn PitfallsTreating LinkedIn like other social platformsThe "post and ghost" trapNeglecting to update your profile regularlyAI's Role in LinkedIn's FutureHow AI is reshaping content creationPotential new features on the horizonBalancing AI assistance with authentic engagementWhether you're a seasoned professional or just starting out, Al's insights will help you make the most of LinkedIn's potential. From crafting compelling content to building meaningful connections, discover how to stand out in the digital professional landscape."You don't get a second chance to make a first impression." - Al KushnerReady to revamp your LinkedIn strategy? Tune in to learn how to transform your profile from a static resume to a dynamic networking powerhouse!Al's Book: https://amzn.to/4lsCVCT

Welcome back to Digital Coffee: Marketing Brew! In this episode, host Brett Deister sits down with Robin Waite, founder of Fearless Business, renowned business coach, and the bestselling author behind titles like "Online Business Startup" and "Take Your Shot." Together, they dive into the ever-evolving world of freelancing and entrepreneurship, focusing on how to truly understand your value, price your services ethically (and profitably!), and move beyond the trap of hourly rates and relentless social media grinding.Robin shares his insightful journey from running a marketing agency to building a successful coaching practice by challenging conventional marketing wisdom. Instead of hustling for attention online, Robin advocates for building intentional partnerships, offering real value, and focusing on results-driven packaging for your services. You'll hear practical tips on rethinking your pricing strategy, growing your business sustainably, and, above all, taking fearless action—even when doubt creeps in.Whether you’re a freelancer, coach, or agency owner, this episode is packed with advice on how to double your income, find better clients, and create a business (and life) that works for you. Grab your coffee and get ready to elevate your approach to business growth—without the burnout!3 Fun Facts:Robin Waite, despite being British, prefers coffee over tea and surfs—he joked he'd fit right in in California.After appearing as a guest on Ali Abdaal’s podcast (with 6 million subscribers), Robin received 3,000 leads and shipped 700-800 copies of his book globally in just six weeks.Robin once switched off social media entirely for his business, focusing instead on building strategic partnerships and appearing on other people’s platforms.Key Themes:Ethical pricing and getting paid true valueMoving away from hourly rates for servicesBuilding partnerships instead of social media grindFocusing on delivering results, not hoursPower of intentional relationship building for growthPackaging services for greater efficiency and incomeTaking fearless action and pursuing big goalsGet your signed copy here: www.fearless.biz\tys

Welcome back to Digital Coffee: Marketing Brew! In this episode, host Brett Deister sits down with Michael Buckbee, co-founder of Noa Toa, to dive deep into the rapidly evolving world of AI-driven search and what it means for marketers and brands alike. Together, they explore how AI tools like ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and Google Gemini are set to reshape search marketing, why traditional SEO isn’t dead—but is quickly changing—and what marketers must do to prepare for this new era.Michael shares his expertise as both a technologist and a marketer, revealing not just how AI is transforming search results and search user behavior, but also what practical steps brands can take right now to protect and enhance their online reputation. From addressing the realities of AI “hallucinations” to rethinking content strategy for maximum ROI, this episode packs actionable advice for anyone looking to get ahead in digital marketing.Whether you're curious about the interplay between PR, SEO, and AI, questioning the role of brand reputation in AI search, or just want to know how to ensure your content is visible in a fractured, AI-integrated landscape, you'll find tons of insight here.Stick around to hear Michael’s tips on how to audit your keyword strategy, make friends with your PR team, and why empathy—and actual human voices—will continue to matter even as AI becomes ubiquitous. Plus, learn about free tools and tactical tips to make sure your brand isn’t left behind as search marketing enters a whole new era.Three Fun Facts:Michael Buckbee drinks an entire pot of coffee a day—he claims his "large mug" makes it only 2 or 3 cups!OpenAI's ChatGPT is now considered by some companies as their "most popular and least well-trained representative."Amazon’s new AI-powered shopping assistant "Rufus" is actually powered by the Claude LLM model, letting users ask much more specific, conversational questions while searching for products.Key Themes:AI search vs. traditional search enginesChanging strategies for SEO and marketingImpact of AI on brand reputationPreparing websites for AI indexingEvolving content marketing strategiesImportance of empathy and human voiceFuture opportunities and challenges with AI

In this episode of 'Digital Coffee Marketing Brew,' host Brett Deister sits down with Zeke Camusio, a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of Data Speaks, an AI-powered analytics platform. They discuss the importance of data-driven decision-making in advertising, challenges in marketing attribution, and the impact of third-party cookie deprecation. Zeke also shares detailed insights into different attribution methods, including media mix modeling and incrementality experiments, and how AI can enhance marketing analytics. The episode concludes with practical advice for small businesses and a look at the future of data privacy in marketing.3 Fun Facts:Zeke Camusio drinks both coffee and tea—coffee in the morning and tea at night—but prefers strong Italian espresso, especially Lavazza!A whopping 61% of conversions are shared by more than one advertising platform, making attribution really tricky.Before the internet, marketers still ran ad experiments using incrementality testing and media mix modeling—old-school marketing science!Key Themes:Challenges with marketing attribution accuracyImportance of data-driven decision makingReliability issues in platform-provided metricsThe impact of third-party cookie deprecationBenefits and limitations of AI in attributionCost-effective attribution strategies for small businessesEvolving privacy regulations’ influence on marketing

In this episode of Digital Coffee Marketing Brew, host Brett Deister interviews Angela Bettencourt, a global communication professional with over 20 years of experience. Angela shares her insights on how businesses should prepare for and handle PR crises, the importance of adapting messaging for diverse markets, and the role of storytelling in rebuilding public trust. She recounts her experiences, including organizing Sierra Leone's first-ever renewable energy conference, and discusses the impact of AI on global communications and crisis management. Tune in to learn practical tips on leveraging technology, embracing strategic communication, and maintaining organizational values during challenging times.3 Fun Facts:Angela Betancourt is a scuba diving enthusiast—her LinkedIn banner is a scuba diving photo!During a major conference in Sierra Leone, Angela and her team had to invite 149 Paramount Chiefs by texting each one individually on a flip phone because most didn’t have internet access.Angela brews very strong coffee at home with a percolator and prefers trying unique, local coffee shops when traveling.Key Themes:Crisis communication planning and responseAdapting messaging for diverse global audiencesLeveraging technology and AI for researchChallenges of international campaigns and logisticsStorytelling to rebuild and maintain trustNavigating tariffs and international market entryImportance of organizational values during crises

In this episode of Digital Coffee Marketing Brew, host Brett Deister talks with Steven Schneider, co-founder and CEO of TrioSEO, about the importance of human-focused SEO strategies for B2B and SaaS businesses. Steven shares insights on creating compelling SEO content that drives meaningful results and the evolution of SEO from the 'wild west' era to today's focus on building trustworthy brands. They discuss challenges in B2B SEO, effective approaches to bottom-of-the-funnel content, and emerging trends like personal branding and AI search. Steven also offers practical advice on balancing SEO for algorithms and human readers, measuring the impact of SEO on sales pipelines, and ensuring long-term value for clients.Guest Bio:Steven Schneider is an experienced SEO specialist with nearly a decade devoted to helping businesses thrive on Google. Focused primarily on the B2B and SaaS industries, Steven crafts tailored strategies that drive meaningful growth through organic search. While he steers clear of e-commerce and local SEO “entirely different beasts,” as he says Steven’s passion for all things search and content makes him a go-to expert in his field. Always at the forefront, he’s now expanding his expertise into AI-driven search, and he’s never short on industry stories or enthusiasm. For Steven, SEO isn’t just a job it’s a lifelong fascination.3 Fun Facts:Steven Schneider is a self-proclaimed coffee snob thanks to his wife’s family, who owns Herkimer Coffee.He always starts his SEO strategies at the "bottom of the funnel" for maximum business impact.Steven is very active on LinkedIn, posting daily and chatting with folks about SEO and marketing.Key Themes:Human-focused approach to SEO strategiesImportance of branding over simple websitesBottom-of-funnel, high-intent content creationPatience and long-term mindset for SEOBalancing Google optimization with human readabilityPersonal branding and C-suite visibility trendsMeasuring SEO success by sales pipeline impact

In this episode of Digital Coffee Marketing Brew, host Brett Deister welcomes guest Tim, a software engineer who has created influential social media bots for growth and revenue generation. They delve into the nuances of black hat marketing, its crossover with cybersecurity, and its effect on social media platforms. Tim shares insights on his career, including the high profit margins from using bots and the ethics of such practices. The conversation covers the challenges of achieving organic reach in the current social media landscape, how algorithms and platform strategies affect content visibility, and the controversial topic of shadow banning. Tim also provides practical tips for marketers on balancing automation and manual tasks, emphasizing the irreplaceable value of critical thinking and genuine content creation. Tune in to explore the ever-evolving dynamics of social media marketing and the role of AI and automation in shaping its future.Guest Bio:Tim O'Hearn is a software engineer whose career took him through a wide range of businesses and industries during his twenties. In 2017, he found himself drawn into the shadowy world of Instagram and social media automation, a notorious space where violating platform terms of service was commonplace and highly lucrative. While not an original inventor in the field, Tim became a power user and skilled developer, building and deploying some of the more advanced botting platforms of the era. Throughout the late 2010s, he leveraged this expertise to establish a successful business, navigating the complex and often controversial landscape of social media underworld.3 Fun Facts:Tim Ohearn is into sparkling teas, especially those found in Korean dining spots in New York City—he even describes them as similar to de-alcoholized champagne.Tim created some of the most pesky and effective social media bots, helping his agency rack up millions of followers and over $500,000 in revenue for clients.In his book, Tim shares that he was once a video game cheater who outgrew gaming but maintained a knack for breaking the rules—eventually channeling that into social media strategy.Key Themes:Black Hat Marketing and Social Media TacticsThe Rise and Regulation of BotsAlgorithm Changes and Decline of Organic ReachViral Content and Time Decay EffectsRole of Email Marketing and Mailing ListsShadow Banning Controversies and Platform PowerProper Use and Limits of Automation and AITim's Book: https://amzn.to/43KCVqS

Welcome back to Digital Coffee: Marketing Brew! In this episode, host Brett Deister sits down with Ivan Vislavskiy—CEO and co-founder of Comrade Digital Marketing Agency—to dive deep into the rapidly evolving landscape of digital marketing and AI. Ivan shares his firsthand insights on how artificial intelligence is transforming everything from content creation to search engine optimization, automation, and lead qualification. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just starting out, you’ll learn why harnessing AI is no longer optional if you want to stay relevant and competitive. Plus, Ivan explains the growing importance of expertise, authority, and trust (E-A-T), the changing rules of SEO, and what the future might hold as the next generation of consumers turns to new search platforms like TikTok and AI chatbots. Grab your coffee (or tea!) and get ready for a caffeinated chat packed with practical advice and actionable strategies to future-proof your marketing game.Speaker Bio:Ivan Vislavskiy is a forward-thinking marketing professional who has closely followed the rise of AI technology in his field. Even before generative AI tools like ChatGPT became mainstream, Ivan participated in industry roundtables where marketers discussed both the potential and risks of AI. Once tools like ChatGPT gained popularity, Ivan and his team began integrating them into their workflow, particularly for content development, keyword research, and SEO tasks. However, Ivan remains cautious about relying exclusively on AI-generated content due to concerns about search engine devaluation and authenticity. To balance efficiency with quality, he oversees a process where AI-generated drafts are carefully reviewed and personalized by human subject matter experts, ensuring all content meets high standards and resonates with audiences.3 Fun Facts:Ivan Vislavskiy enjoys both coffee and tea, starting his mornings with coffee and switching to green tea midday, then winding down with herbal tea at night.Ivan's agency, Comrade Digital Marketing, built their own AI-powered system to analyze and qualify client leads by reviewing transcripts from chats, forms, and calls.Ivan predicts video marketing will be vital for SEO dominance in the near future, but points out most of his legal clients are too busy to create video content themselves.Key Themes:AI’s vital role in digital marketingBalancing human expertise with AI contentGoogle devaluing generic AI-generated contentAutomation of internal marketing processesImportance of specialization for agenciesSEO diversification across multiple platformsThe growing necessity of video marketing

Welcome to another episode of Digital Coffee: Marketing Brew! This week, host Brett Deister sits down with Charlie Riley, the Head of Marketing at OneScreen.ai, to shine a spotlight on a topic that often gets pushed to the back burner: internal marketing. In this insightful conversation, Charlie shares why internal marketing is just as crucial as external efforts, explaining how it impacts company culture, boosts employee morale, and creates the alignment needed for real business success. With over twenty years of experience building marketing functions from scratch at startups and established companies alike, Charlie offers practical advice on fostering collaboration between departments, maintaining consistent messaging, and adapting internal communication for hybrid and remote teams. Whether you’re a marketing leader, sales professional, or just passionate about workplace dynamics, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways to help you strengthen your team from the inside out. So, grab your coffee (or iced Americano) and join us for a fresh brew of marketing wisdom!Guest Bio:Charlie Riley is the Head of Marketing at OneScreen.ai, a platform that specializes in measurable out-of-home advertising. With a diverse background spanning multiple industries and company sizes, Charlie has often been the first marketing hire, building out functions from the ground up. Beyond marketing, Charlie has also led sales teams on several occasions, developing a deep understanding of the synergy between marketing, sales, and customer support. Charlie’s experience reflects a hands-on, collaborative approach, ensuring that marketing works seamlessly across all pillars of a business to drive demand generation and brand success.3 Fun Facts:Charlie Riley prefers iced coffee over hot coffee and usually goes for an iced Americano.At one company, Charlie’s team sent out a daily internal email called "What We Know Now" to keep everyone updated and connected, especially after going remote.Charlie has been the first marketing hire at six different organizations, leading marketing and sales teams from seed stage startups up to companies with $200 million in revenue.Key Themes:Importance of internal marketing for successCross-functional collaboration between departmentsImpact of internal marketing on moraleAdapting internal marketing for remote workEnsuring message consistency internally and externallyCommon mistakes in internal communication initiativesRole of technology in internal communications

In this episode of Digital Coffee Marketing Brew, host Brett Deister discusses the advantages of podcast PR over traditional PR with guest Michelle Glogovac, a podcast publicist and host of the award-winning podcast 'My Simplified Life.' They delve into how podcasts offer unique opportunities for storytelling, building trust, and reaching niche audiences. Michelle shares insights on the importance of personalized pitches, the long-term benefits of podcast appearances, and the cost-efficiency of podcast PR campaigns versus traditional PR. They also touch upon the role of AI in PR, the growing podcast landscape, and strategies for repurposing podcast content for broader marketing efforts.