Attention business owners: ask yourself these 5 questions before you start planning for 2026.In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business podcast, Scott chats with Bronte from the Digital Influence team about the five key questions every business owner should ask before they dive into next year’s marketing strategy.After sitting in over 50 strategy sessions this year, Bronte shares the trends, blind spots, and smart moves she’s seen across NZ businesses – including where most are wasting time and budget, and what separates the ones growing from the ones stalling.You’ll learn why proper tracking is non-negotiable, how to get clearer on what’s actually driving results, and where most businesses are missing easy wins. Plus, they unpack how to use the “Thrive in 25” mindset to refocus, optimise, and scale what’s already working.If you want 2026 to be your most intentional and effective year yet, this episode is a strong place to start.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereConnect with Bronte on LinkedIn here Eager to enhance your marketing strategy? Learn more about booking a Strategy Session with the Digital Influence team here.Have Fun & Take Action
Want better results in a slow market? Focus less on price, and more on people.In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business podcast, Scott chats with Ziggy Conroy, founder of Zen Builders, about what it really takes to build a resilient, values-led business during tough times.Ziggy shares how clear communication, strong culture, and a focus on personal development have helped his team thrive – even when the market slows down. From over-communicating with clients to empowering staff to grow their personal brands, Ziggy’s approach proves that investing in people pays off. You’ll also hear how he uses marketing to stay visible, why mindset matters more than ever, and what smart builders are doing differently in 2024.If you want your business to grow (even in a slow market) this episode is packed with insights you can use.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Ziggy on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
LinkedIn isn’t just for job hunters, it’s one of the best tools a business owner can use to grow.In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business podcast, Scott chats with Chloe Sabbadin, founder of XO Recruitment, about how showing up consistently on LinkedIn helped her build a values-led recruitment business and attract clients she actually wants to work with.Chloe shares how she went from HR in the mines to building a personal brand that cuts through the noise. You’ll learn the five key ways business owners can stand out on LinkedIn, why content doesn’t need to be perfect, and how to attract attention without selling your soul.If you’ve been thinking about using LinkedIn but don’t know where to start, start here.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Chloe on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
Most business owners know the market has changed, but very few are doing anything about it…In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business podcast, Scott chats with leadership and sales expert Darren Pratley about what’s really happening in the NZ market right now, and how smart business owners are setting themselves up to win in 2026 and beyond.Darren and Scott unpack the strategies they’re seeing work across industries, from vision-led leadership to modern sales tactics and customer experience that builds real trust. You’ll learn why marketing without strategy is costing you money, how to create a culture of implementation, and what to do when loyalty is no longer guaranteed.They also dive into the critical mindset shift every business owner needs to make if they want to thrive (not just survive) in this next cycle.If you're feeling the market pressure and want clarity on how to lead, sell, and grow in today’s environment, this episode is a must. If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Darren on LinkedIn here Connect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
Most tradies hit a wall when the referrals dry up. James MacLean hit that wall and decided to do something about it…In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business podcast, Scott chats with James MacLean from Pantheon Painting about what it really takes to go from contractor to business owner – and why marketing was the skill he never knew he needed.James shares what happened when the friends-and-family jobs ran out, the lessons he learned trying to DIY his lead generation, and why clarity, culture, and curiosity have been key to building a brand Canterbury can be proud of.You’ll learn why trust is the new currency, how systems create confidence (for clients and staff), and what every service business owner needs to understand before they waste money on “lead gen” ads that go nowhere.If you’re growing a service business and wondering why marketing feels so damn hard, this episode will show you you’re not alone – and what to do next.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with James on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
Most people say they want success – but few are willing to do what it takes. Yuri Gomes is one of the few.In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business podcast, Scott sits down with Yuri Gomes, founder of RMS Roofing & Waterproofing, to unpack the journey from Brazilian immigrant to respected Christchurch business owner – and the hard yards it took to get there.Yuri shares how he built his business from scratch while working night shifts, why servant leadership drives team performance, and the marketing moves that helped him take control of his growth. You’ll hear his honest take on managing 30+ people, why branding and online presence matter more than ever, and how to outwork your competition without burning out.If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to build a business from the ground up in New Zealand, this is the episode to listen to.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Yuri on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
Most business owners are drowning in to-dos. Noel MacDonald helps them design a business that works for them – not the other way around.In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business podcast, Scott chats with Noel MacDonald from Oxygen8 about the three key strategy shifts that help business owners escape the overwhelm, get back in control, and build a business that supports the lifestyle they actually want.Noel shares why working harder won’t fix your problems, how to use critical thinking to make better decisions, and what most business owners get wrong about success and goal setting. You’ll also learn how to fix cash flow without chasing every invoice, why some people hate the word “wealth,” and how the concept of “target fixation” can change the way you run your business.If your business feels heavy, chaotic, or just stuck – this episode will help you start shifting gears.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Noel on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
Most business owners treat marketing like an expense. Marti Amos treats it like his biggest asset, and it’s helped him build a global business.In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business podcast, Scott chats with Marti Amos, founder of The Professional Builder, about the mindset shift that helped him scale a global coaching company, and how you can apply the same thinking to grow your own business faster.Marti shares why so many business owners stay stuck at 6 or low-7 figures, the real reason most marketing doesn’t work (hint: it’s not the ads), and how to identify your number one constraint using data, not guesswork. You’ll also learn why “hope marketing” is dead, how to build a team that thinks like founders, and why Marti spends over $250K a month on marketing with confidence.If you’re ready to stop winging it and start scaling with intent, this one’s for you.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereConnect with Marti on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
Think being mortgage-free is out of reach? Jacque Elias wants you to think again, and she's helped hundreds of Kiwi homeowners prove it’s possible.In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business Podcast, Scott chats with Jacque Elias, CEO of Futurebound, about how everyday people can escape the debt cycle, take control of their finances, and build long-term wealth – all without earning more or giving up the things they love.Jacque shares her journey from credit card debt to financial freedom, the mindset shift that changed everything, and how she now helps others do the same. You’ll learn how to get out of short-term debt using the “snowball method,” why budgets don’t work (and what to use instead), and how to set up bank account buckets that make managing money simple.If you’ve ever felt stuck, frustrated, or unsure where your money’s going, this episode will show you a better way – and why your future self will thank you for it.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Learn about working with Futurebound hereFollow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Jacque on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
Think video marketing is just for influencers or ecommerce brands? Kaushik Kumar knew better, and now he helps business owners turn their expertise into video content that actually gets results.In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business Podcast, Scott chats with Kaushik Kumar from Dark Matter about how service-based businesses can start using video to build trust, show up in search, and grow authority – without needing fancy gear, viral views or polished scripts.Kaushik shares how he went from engineering to video strategy, why most business owners are sitting on a goldmine of untapped knowledge, and the easiest way to turn FAQs into content that works. You’ll learn why consistency beats perfection, how to beat the fear of looking silly, and why video is a long-term asset in a world of short attention spans.If you’ve been thinking about video but keep putting it off, this episode will help you get out of your own head and finally hit record.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Kaushik on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
The end-of-year rush is coming and the businesses that win are planning for it now.In this episode of Marketing 4 Business, Scott and Renée unpack what smart business owners should be doing right now to finish the year strong and kickstart 2026 with real momentum.From planning your Christmas campaigns to fixing your follow-up and doubling down on what already works – this is a fast-paced guide to avoiding the panic and getting ahead. You’ll learn how to stay visible during the silly season, where to focus your time and budget, and why content consistency matters more than ever.If you want 2026 to be your best year yet, it starts with the decisions you make this quarter. This episode will help you get clear, take action, and stay top of mind when it matters most.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Renée on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
Think your business isn’t “right” for video marketing? Georgia Hale thought the same, until her Instagram Reels started filling up her calendar.In this episode of Marketing 4 Business, Scott chats with Georgia Hale, founder of The Face by Georgia Hale, about how she turned a niche injectable clinic into a fast-growing brand using authentic video content.Georgia shares the real story behind launching her business, faking confidence until she found it, and why being “a bit cringe” on camera is worth it. You’ll learn how she uses video to build trust before people ever walk in the door, plus how free consultations, educational content, and standout customer experience drive ongoing referrals.If you're running a service-based business and struggling to stand out online, this episode will show you what’s possible when you hit record and start showing up.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Georgia on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
Feeling the sales pressure? You’re not alone, but there is a better way to turn things around.In this episode of Marketing 4 Business, Scott chats with sales and leadership coach Di Murphy about how New Zealand business owners can lift sales by focusing less on pushing harder and more on understanding people.Di shares how a simple tool – DISC profiling – can help business owners improve how they lead, sell, and build better-performing teams. You’ll hear real advice on how to manage mindset, build accountability, and stop letting poor communication cost you revenue.If your sales team isn’t performing – or you’re doing the selling yourself and it’s just not working – this episode will help you reset and move forward with more clarity and confidence.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Di on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereGive Di a call on 021 944 613Eager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
Are you leading with intention, or just winging it and hoping for the best? In this M4B episode, Scott sits down with high-performance leadership coach and 7-time world champion James Laughlin to unpack what it really takes to lead yourself, your team, and your business on purpose.James shares powerful insights from his new book The Habits of High Performers, including the exact framework he uses with elite athletes, military leaders, and business owners to build long-term success (without burning out). From journaling and value-setting to decision-making filters and MVP prioritisation, this episode is packed with practical tools you can use right now.If you're a business owner looking to show up better, lead stronger, and perform at your best, this one’s for you.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with James on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
“I’m not in sales.” Yes, you are.Whether you’re running a business, leading a team, or answering phones – how you show up shapes the customer experience.In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business Podcast, Scott chats with Mike Boyle, The Sales Scientist, about the mindset, leadership, and systems behind high-performing businesses. Mike shares practical insights from years of helping teams across Australasia build culture, lift performance, and sell with purpose.They cover why most sales teams aren’t set up to win, how business owners unknowingly burn out their best people, and why every person in your business plays a role in sales. If you want to grow without burning out, this one’s worth a listen.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereConnect with Mike on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
What if losing your business was the best thing that ever happened to you?In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business Podcast, Scott chats with Craig Fortune, a former business owner who voluntarily liquidated his company after facing burnout and a diagnosis of depression. Now, Craig helps other business owners reduce stress, work smarter, and avoid the mistakes he made.They dive into what it really means to be “busy but not productive,” how leadership habits can make or break your team, and why purpose and structure are essential for sustainable growth. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the weight of your business, this one’s for you.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Craig on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business Podcast, Scott sits down with Jennifer Heuett, founder of The Small Wins Company – a strategist who helps business owners create clarity, streamline operations, and design businesses that feel as good as they perform. Jennifer shares her journey from burnout to rebuilding a business by design, revealing how a clear North Star, aligned offers, and the right mindset can completely transform your trajectory.They explore why small wins are more than just moments to celebrate – they’re a strategic advantage. From mapping out powerful client experiences to simplifying offers for better conversions, Jennifer breaks down what it takes to grow sustainably. If you’re feeling stuck, stretched thin, or ready for your next level, this conversation will help you get there – one small win at a time.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Jennifer on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business Podcast, Scott sits down with Dan Bradley, founder of BPM and the man behind the “get good sh*t done” ethos. Dan shares his journey from Manchester to New Zealand, escaping the corporate grind to build a business rooted in real values, straight talk, and a relentless focus on people.They dig into the mindset shifts needed to go from employee to owner, the reality of hiring (and leading) a team, and why sticking to your core values – no matter how blunt – can actually attract the right clients and opportunities. Dan also reveals what business ownership has taught him about resilience, balance, and building a culture that lasts.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Connect with Dan on LinkedIn hereFollow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
Is your business still relying on old-school referrals? You might be falling behind. In this episode, Scott and Renée reveal how established NZ businesses can future-proof their marketing and win in today’s digital-first world.Renée, our Growth Specialist at Digital Influence, returns to break down why even the most reputable brands are losing ground online – and what you can do to turn things around. They cover the signs your referral network is drying up, how younger competitors are overtaking long-standing businesses, and why the “random acts of marketing” approach is costing owners real money.You’ll learn:How to quickly boost your online reputation and credibilitySimple steps to get more from Google reviews, video, and social proofThe right way to build consistency, trust, and results – without the fluffReal examples of NZ businesses that adapted (and what happens if you don’t)If you’re a business owner or marketer who wants to finish the year strong, this episode is packed with real talk, practical ideas, and a clear strategy to stay ahead.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Follow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Renée on LinkedIn hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action
In this episode of the Marketing 4 Business Podcast, Scott is joined by Glenn Wilson, former New Zealand Davis Cup tennis captain and now General Manager at Custom Pack. Glenn’s story covers a unique path from dairy farming to the world stage of tennis, and now to running a fast-evolving family business in the packaging industry.They dig into the real mindset shifts that drive high performance – in sport and business – and what it takes to lead through change. Glenn shares lessons from tough mentors, building resilience, and why one-on-one leadership still matters most. You’ll hear how Custom Pack has survived and thrived through market shifts, technology upgrades, supply chain shocks, and a constantly changing team. Most of all, Glenn opens up about the habits, self-talk, and practical strategies that have helped him – and his business – adapt, innovate, and keep moving forward.If you find our content valuable and informative, please help us reach more business owners by sharing it with a friend who might benefit. Additionally, please ensure that you're following our podcast on your preferred platform, and if you enjoyed the latest episode, consider leaving us a five-star review. Your support is highly appreciated.See below for ways to get in touch with us…Connect with Glenn on LinkedIn hereFollow the Marketing 4 Business podcast on Instagram hereFollow Digital Influence on Instagram hereConnect with Scott on LinkedIn hereEager to enhance your marketing strategy? Book in for a complimentary strategy chat with our team to discuss your marketing here.Have Fun & Take Action