Duct Tape Marketing

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I’m doing a solo show, and I’m gonna talk about 7 marketing mistakes that business owners usually make and I give you some tips on how to avoid them. Key Takeaway: Businesses often make seven deadly marketing mistakes: lacking a clear vision, trying to please everyone, being just like their competition, wasting marketing resources, competing solely on price, succumbing to the idea of the week, and lacking measurable success criteria. Overcoming these mistakes requires a focused marketing strategy aligned with business objectives for creating a roadmap for growth. Topics I Cover: [01:25] Introduction to the 7 deadly marketing mistakes. [02:32] Number 1: No vision of where your business is headed. [03:47] Number 2: Trying to be all things to all people. [05:54] Number 3: Being just like the competition. [08:49] Number 4: Wasting precious marketing resources. [09:37] Number 5: Competing on price. [11:11] Number 6: Getting overwhelmed with the idea of the

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interviewed Leanne Hughes, a renowned consultant, speaker, and facilitator who specializes in maximizing team potential through influential and contagious work experiences. Leanne shared insights from her expertise, focusing on her book, the "Two-Hour Workshop Blueprint." Discover how business-owners can design workshops that are fast, deliver strong results, and eliminate stress from the process. Key Takeaways: Leanne Hughes shares invaluable insights into the art of workshop facilitation, focusing on the strategic significance of the two-hour timeframe. The discussion delves into the transformative shift from traditional presentations to horizontal, engaging workshops, emphasizing the evolution of skillsets required for effective facilitation. Leanne guides listeners in identifying workshop opportunities by recognizing the telltale "how" questions in various contexts. Additionally, she provides practical tips for building rapport and connection with pa

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interviewed Jeffrey Hayzlett, a primetime television host of C-Suite with Jeffrey Hayzlett and Executive Perspectives on C-Suite TV, and business podcast host of All Business with Jeffrey Hayzlett on C-Suite Radio. He is a global business celebrity, speaker, best-selling author, and Chairman and CEO of C-Suite Network, home of the world’s most trusted network of C-Suite leaders.  Key Takeaways: The Hero Factor—a leadership philosophy emphasizing the prioritization of values, employee well-being, and community impact. Highlighting the importance of transparently publishing and living by these values, Hayzlett draws lessons from companies like Chick-fil-A and Starbucks. He underscores the relevance of conveying values consistently in both physical and digital realms. For CEOs aiming to instill change, he advises starting with defining and embodying core values. Humility, a key trait of hero leaders, is stressed as crucial in fostering a servant mentality tow

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interviewed Todd Rammler, president and founder of Michigan CFO Associates. With his extensive experience in financial management, Todd is a leading expert in implementing strategies to protect small businesses from embezzlement while enhancing their profitability. Key Takeaways: Amidst the challenging landscape of small business finances, Todd Rammler sheds light on the critical issue of embezzlement. He emphasized the common ways small businesses fall victim to financial misconduct and highlighted the importance of preemptive measures to safeguard against such risks. During our conversation, Todd outlined the fundamental strategies businesses can employ to fortify their financial foundations. He stressed the significance of employee dishonesty insurance as a protective layer against potential embezzlement, a critical step often overlooked by many small businesses. Moreover, Todd underlined the necessity of maintaining strict internal controls, such as s

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interviewed Ryan Stewart, a prominent fractional marketing officer (CMO) and a seasoned expert in the world of marketing strategy. With over a decade of experience in his toolkit, he specializes in helping clients build out cross-channel acquisition systems using a mix of owned, earned and paid tactics. Over the last 13 years he's worked with companies like Target, Jeeter and Shopify to implement performance marketing campaigns.  Ryan has made it his mission to lead businesses towards unprecedented growth through this unique approach, and during our conversation, he generously shared the secrets behind his successful strategies. Key Takeaway: In today's complex marketing landscape, Ryan emphasized the vital role of a fractional CMO in steering your business towards success. He broke down the core elements of his 90-day approach that consistently delivers remarkable results. If you're ready to revolutionize your marketing strategy and unlock unprecedented g

In this episode of The Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interviewed Julia McCoy, a leading expert in AI-optimized content creation. As the president of Content at Scale, Julia is spearheading major initiatives for what's quickly become one of the most sought-after AI content writing tools for SEO marketers globally. An eight-time author with a flair for building successful businesses, Julia grew her writing agency, Express Writers, to a remarkable $5 million in revenue with a team of over 100 staff members. Recognized as one of the top 10 content marketers to follow in 2023, she is acclaimed for her compelling content strategies that not only elevate business growth but also generate tangible revenue. And now, she's at the forefront of teaching marketers how to leverage AI to exponentially increase their blog's authority, volume, and traffic.  Key Takeaway: AI-driven content creation is not just a trend; it's a game-changer that's reshaping the content marketing landscape. In our conversation, we uncover how b

In this episode of The Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, we explored the art of customer recovery with Jon Picoult, a renowned customer experience expert and author of "From Impressed to Obsessed: 12 Principles for Turning Customers and Employees into Lifelong Fans." Key Takeaway: In the world of customer experience, mishaps are inevitable. However, by approaching customer recovery with style, empathy, and exceptional ownership, businesses can turn these situations into opportunities to create raving fans. Remember, a well-handled recovery can often leave a more positive impression on customers than a problem-free experience. Questions I ask Jon Picoult: [01:01] How does somebody become a customer experience expert? [02:48] How do you unify decision-makers in an organization around a customer experience vision? [05:27] As the pandemic's impact led to relaxed customer service, are we now entering an era where customers have heightened expectations? [06:56] What role do you see speed playing in today's market?

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interviewed Peter Caputa, CEO of Databox, an innovative player in the realm of marketing analytics. With a focus on transforming raw data into actionable insights, Databox has carved out a niche for itself, offering unique solutions for businesses to visualize their metrics in a customized manner. Peter, with his rich background in data analytics and his leadership at Databox, brings a fresh perspective to the challenges and opportunities in the world of marketing analytics. Key Takeaway: Peter and I dove into the world of data measurement, emphasizing the transformative power of turning raw figures into actionable insights. Peter shared the significance of looking beyond just the present numbers and understanding historical patterns and the importance of harnessing the power of data tools for any size company. The rising importance of predictive AI-driven analytics became clear, hinting at a future where forecasts will shape decisions. Questions I ask P

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interviewed Ben Guttmann, a marketing and communications expert, professor, and author of Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win — and How to Design Them. He’s an experienced marketing executive and educator on a mission to get leaders to more effectively connect by simplifying their message.  Currently, Ben teaches digital marketing at Baruch College in New York City and consults with a range of thought leaders, venture-backed startups, and other brands. Key Takeaway: From the design of his book cover to the clear title, Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win―and How to Design Them, Ben highlights the importance of simplicity. He talks about concepts like fluency and discusses how the things we perceive as easy often bring about positive reactions. Ben and I explored the five key principles of simple messaging: being beneficial, focused, salient, empathetic, and minimal. Understanding these principles can significantly impact the way you market your business.  

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interviewed Julian Juenemann, the founder of JJAnalytics, a company that helps businesses adopt the data-driven way of Digital Marketing. In 2015, he launched the MeasureSchool YouTube channel to reach out and teach this new way of marketing to others. With over 150,000 subscribers, MeasureSchool has become the leading video source for many marketers to learn these data-driven methods. During this episode, we discuss the transition from Universal Google Analytics to Google Analytics G4 and its significant differences from the previous version. We also learned how privacy concerns and changing data retention practices have driven the need for this transition. Additionally, we talk about how businesses need to adapt and leverage data visualization tools for better insights since AI is playing an increasing role in data analysis. However, trust in the output of such tools remains a critical issue. Here's a glance at this episode: [00:54] What are the differ

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I decided to go solo and talk about a topic that's been on my mind for a while: the importance of selecting the right tools for your business. In the constantly evolving landscape of marketing, strategies and tools are in a state of perpetual flux. Staying ahead of the game and making strategic tool choices is the key to achieving remarkable success. In today's world, it's easy to fall into the trap of constantly seeking new tools and technologies. We believe in the importance of establishing and mastering a core set of tools, and become proficient in their use, so you can achieve greater efficiency, productivity, and marketing success. Avoid tool leapfrog and the distraction it brings; instead, invest your time and energy into establishing your primary set of tools. Here's a glance at this episode: [01:08] The trap of constantly seeking new tools [01:54] The distraction of new technology [02:38]The Mantra: "Do with less, but do it brilliantly" [03:35] Duc

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interviewed Micah Solomon, an expert on customer service, hospitality, and the customer experience. He delves into the unique concept of anticipatory customer service and its powerful potential to enhance brand loyalty and drive business growth. He's a bestselling author with a fresh perspective on how businesses can transform their customer service strategies to foster enduring loyalty. Key Takeaway: Anticipatory customer service is not just about reacting to a customer's needs; it's about predicting them. By serving even the unexpressed wishes of customers, businesses can create an unparalleled customer experience that fosters brand loyalty and catalyzes growth. In an era where customers crave personalization and a touch of anticipation, this approach proves to be a game-changer in the marketing and customer service sectors. Questions I ask Micah Solomon: [00:50] Define anticipatory customer experience. [01:44] Some suggest that no matter how great you

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interviewed Chris Guillebeau, an entrepreneur, writer, travel enthusiast, speaker, and podcaster. He has visited almost every country in the world, works independently, and motivates people to do the same, encouraging them to live a rewarding life by following their passion. His blog, The Art of Not Conforming, receives more than 300,000 views per month. Chris is also a longtime fan of Duct Tape Marketing. Recently, he published his latest book, "Gonzo Capitalism: How to Make Money in an Economy That Hates You." Key Takeaway: During this podcast episode, we delve into the changing landscape of the economy, the rise of unconventional careers, and the power of decentralization. Chris shares fascinating stories of individuals who have found success in unique ways, from naming Chinese babies to teaching outdoor survival skills. Throughout our discussion, he reminded us why, in this rapidly evolving world, individuals and businesses should adapt, embrace novel

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interviewed Alyson Caffrey, the founder of Operations Agency and the co-creator of the operations simplified framework, which is aimed at streamlining backend operations for digital and creative agencies. She is also the author of The Sabbatical Method: How to Leverage Rest and Grow Your Business. With a wealth of experience in helping agency owners find a balance between their work and rest, Alyson sheds light on how the Sabbatical Method can revolutionize the way marketing systems are handled. Key Takeaway: Working less to achieve more is a paradigm shift in the traditional hustle culture, especially among agency owners in the marketing realm. Alyson Caffrey joins me to elucidate how the Sabbatical Method is transforming the marketing systems landscape. We delve into the concept of "systematic rest," an innovative approach to interspersing work with adequate rest to not only prevent burnout but to significantly enhance productivity and creativity. By em

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interviewed Christie Horsman, who brings a decade of expertise in both B2B and B2C marketing within the SaaS arena. Currently serving as the VP of marketing at Thinkific, a platform that empowers entrepreneurs to craft, market, and deliver online courses, Christie delves into the booming Creator Economy and how it's reshaping the marketing landscape, especially in the B2B sector. The Creator Economy isn't just a playground for B2C marketers or influencers. It's a rich, untapped terrain for B2B marketing, offering a humanized and community-centric approach that can significantly contribute to business growth. By embracing the principles of the Creator Economy, B2B marketers can foster a deeper connection with their audience, enhance trust, and drive meaningful engagement. Here's a glance at this episode: [01:10] How are creators changing marketing, especially in B2B? [02:08] How do you define the "creator economy" compared to traditional economic models? [

In this episode of the Duct Tape Marketing Podcast, I interviewed Nicole Bernard, a seasoned marketing professional with an impressive legacy that includes stints at Microsoft and collaborations with big names like REMAX and Venus Williams. We dive deep into the transformative realm of the Fractional CMO, uncovering the nuances and potential it holds for modern businesses. With Nicole's first-hand experiences and insights, we explored how this Fractional CMO trend is not just a fleeting fad but a strategic maneuver that's reshaping the contours of business leadership in today's dynamic landscape. Key Takeaway: The rise of the Fractional CMO marks a significant shift in the way businesses perceive leadership roles. Companies, by opting for a Fractional CMO, are not just seeking to cut costs but are keen on leveraging the diverse expertise and perspectives these professionals bring. Operating across varied industries, Fractional CMOs offer a fresh, tailored approach, helping businesses to be more agile, adapti

In this conversation with Anne Janzer, we delve into the captivating world of writing, marketing, and the intriguing intersection of human behavior and cognitive science. Anne's latest book, "The Writer's Voice," is a treasure trove of insights, offering a comprehensive guide to mastering the art and science of writing voice. Through our discussion, we uncover the secrets behind crafting a distinct brand voice, explore the nuances of ghostwriting, and gain a deeper understanding of the multifaceted realm of marketing. Join us on this enlightening journey to enhance your writing and marketing prowess, armed with the wisdom Anne shares from her extensive experience as a nonfiction book coach and author. Get the special price of Anne's new book: The Writer’s Voice - https://annejanzer.com/book/the-writers-voice/ More about the book: The Writer’s Voice - https://annejanzer.com/book/the-writers-voice/ Anne's website - https://annejanzer.com/ Connect with Anne's on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/annehjanze

Jeremy Kenerson, is the founder of Desk Team 360. During this podcast, we discussed the importance of effective outsourcing and insourcing in marketing, emphasizing the value of communication and collaboration with remote teams to achieve successful outcomes. Additionally, we highlight the significance of strategic partnerships in expanding one's marketing reach without forgetting the need for quality, consistency, and professional expertise while outsourcing.

Struggling to get your message across? Dive deep with the King of Clarity, Steve Woodruff, as he unravels the art of impactful communication. Discover why simplicity is key, and how the right words can leave a lasting impression. Plus, a sneak peek into his new book, "The Point: How to Win with Clarity-Fueled Communication." Make every conversation count—tune in now!

In the world of marketing, focusing on a niche can be both advantageous and limiting. While specialization can bring efficiencies and higher value to clients, it also leads to increased competition and the risk of being overshadowed by template-driven solutions. Learn how to transition from being tacticians to orchestrators, and leverage your strategic skills to serving your niche. This approach will provide a unique value proposition for your business in an increasingly competitive landscape.