Rocky Mountain Marketing

If it feels like you’re still hustling on Instagram without getting traction—you might be playing by the wrong rules. In this week's Rocky Mountain Marketing Quick Cast, I break down Instagram’s official top three priorities for 2025—and what they actually mean for creators and small businesses like YOU.In just a few minutes, you’ll learn:Why original content matters more than everHow Instagram is finally leveling the playing field for smaller creatorsWhy jumping on trends fast (and with clarity) is your new superpowerThe real truth about hashtags in 2025Instagram is shifting. If you shift with it, you’re going to win.It’s time to stop playing by yesterday’s rules.Instagram is shifting—and if you move with it, you’ll build real momentum, not just noise.Ready to simplify your content strategy and actually grow?Listen to this Quickcast now and discover how to show up smarter, faster, and more authentically in 2025.Need a plan tailored to YOUR business? Book a strategy call at nextstepsocial.agency and let's create a content roadmap that gets you seen and heard.Timestamps:00:00 – Why most creators are stuck in 202000:14 – Instagram’s 2025 top priorities overview01:00 – Instagram’s new focus on original content02:15 – Why reposting and aggregator accounts will lose reach03:00 – How smaller creators are finally getting discovered04:00 – How faster trend detection changes your posting strategy05:00 – The real deal about hashtags in 202506:45 – Quick recap + how to shift your content nowLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocialcommunications.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#InstagramMarketing #CreatorTips #RockyMountainMarketing #KatieBrinkley #SocialMediaTrends #OriginalContent #SmallCreatorGrowth #InstagramUpdates #QuickCast #DigitalMarketingTips

If networking feels awkward, transactional, or straight-up exhausting—you’re not alone. But this week on Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m chatting with Melissa Snow, business relationship strategist and founder of Powerful Women Rising, to show you a better way.Inside this episode, we unpack:Why traditional networking feels so fake—and how to fix itHow real relationships grow your business faster than any adWhat new entrepreneurs need to know before stepping into the roomThe secret to follow-up that doesn’t feel slimyHow to use networking to build your community (not just your client list)If you’re ready to ditch the awkwardness and start building genuine connections that fuel your business, this episode is for you.Sign Up with Metricool today!https://metricool.com/katieJoin Melissa’s community of Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/groups/pwrnetworkingVisit Melissa Snow's social media pages:Website: https://powerfulwomenrising.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/powerfulwomenrising/Powerful Women Rising Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/7C2xyZwjtnW6pLhl3rZIQs?si=7056135146b547dfLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocialcommunications.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#NetworkingTips #EntrepreneurMindset #RockyMountainMarketing #QuickCast #KatieBrinkley #BusinessRelationships #PowerfulWomenRising #CommunityOverCompetition #BusinessGrowth #EntrepreneurLife

This week’s Rocky Mountain Marketing Quickcast wraps up our account recovery series with one of the most overlooked (but critical) platforms: LinkedIn. You may not post there often—but your future clients, collaborators, podcast hosts, and even the media absolutely check it. And if your LinkedIn gets hacked, the damage isn’t just annoying—it’s reputation-ruining.In under 10 minutes, I walk you through:What to do if your LinkedIn is hacked or compromisedHow LinkedIn’s recovery partner (Persona) actually worksWhat ID you’ll need to submit—and why it’s legitA full post-hack checklist to secure your professional presenceDon’t wait until your reputation is at risk. This is your proactive LinkedIn playbook.Time Stamps00:00 – Why LinkedIn matters more than you think00:30 – The dangers of low LinkedIn activity01:10 – Yes, even 2FA accounts get hacked01:45 – Step-by-step: How to start recovery with LinkedIn02:30 – What is Persona and why it’s safe03:15 – ID verification: What you’ll need04:00 – How fast LinkedIn responds after ID submission04:30 – Create a rock-solid new password05:00 – The ultimate post-hack LinkedIn checklist06:15 – Why one hacked post could cost you clients07:00 – Final mindset shift to stay ahead of threats08:00 – Closing tips & how to protect your reputationLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocialcommunications.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#LinkedInTips #AccountRecovery #RockyMountainMarketing #QuickCast #KatieBrinkley #CyberSecurityTips #LinkedInMarketing #ReputationMatters #SocialMediaHacks #DigitalSafety

If LinkedIn ads have ever felt expensive and intimidating to you, you're not alone. But what if you could actually turn your ad spend into high-quality leads and serious ROI? This week on Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m sitting down with LinkedIn Ads pro AJ Wilcox—the founder of B2Linked and host of the LinkedIn Ads Show podcast.Inside this value-packed episode, AJ shares:Why LinkedIn ads cost more—and why it’s worth itWho should actually be running LinkedIn ads (and who shouldn’t)How to build a powerful three-stage LinkedIn funnelCommon LinkedIn ad mistakes (and how to fix them)How $5K a month can scale your B2B marketing—if you do it rightTimestamps:00:00 – Why LinkedIn ads seem expensive01:00 – Meet AJ Wilcox, founder of B2Linked02:30 – When LinkedIn ads make sense (and when they don’t)04:30 – How LinkedIn targeting blows other platforms away06:00 – How scarcity drives LinkedIn’s ad prices08:00 – What kind of video content works best right now10:30 – LinkedIn’s new video feed: what advertisers should know12:00 – Building a 3-stage LinkedIn funnel15:30 – What to expect for costs per click and per lead18:00 – Why your sales process needs to nurture, not rush20:00 – How to structure your budget across the funnel22:30 – DIY mistakes and LinkedIn ad traps to avoid29:00 – AJ’s dream ad campaign and final adviceThis is your roadmap for turning those high-dollar LinkedIn clicks into high-value clients.Sign Up with Metricool today!https://metricool.com/katieJoin AJ’s community of LinkedIn Ads fanatics:https://fanatics.b2linked.com/Visit AJ Wilcox's social media pages:Website: https://b2linked.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wilcoxaj/LinkedIn Ads Show Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/6Z88iXkXHKEZ5um04mtpAq?si=7a7d8d248c8e47a8Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocialcommunications.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#LinkedInAds #B2BMarketing #RockyMountainMarketing #KatieBrinkley #QuickCast #DigitalMarketing #PaidAds #MarketingStrategy #LinkedInForBusiness #LeadGeneration #AJWilcox

Locked out of TikTok? Whether it’s a forgotten password, a hacked account, or an unexpected ban, today’s Quickcast gives you the step-by-step blueprint to get back in—fast. In this no-fluff episode, I’m breaking down what to do right now if your TikTok account goes dark, and the exact ways to recover it safely.Inside this 8-minute strategy drop, I cover:How to reset your TikTok password (even without email or phone access)What to do if your account is banned, hacked, or deletedRecovery methods for login via Facebook, Google, or AppleA TikTok security checklist to prevent future disastersIf you’re a business owner, creator, or agency using TikTok, this is a must-listen. Save it, share it, and make it part of your monthly maintenance routine. 00:00 – Intro: TikTok trouble is real 01:00 – Forgot password? Here's the easy reset method 01:45 – What to do when you can’t access email or phone 02:30 – How to appeal a banned TikTok account 03:15 – Fixing ad account suspensions in TikTok Ads Manager 04:00 – Deleted your account? You might still recover it 04:45 – What to do if you lost access to 2FA 05:30 – Recovering logins via Facebook or Google 06:00 – Signs you’ve been hacked + how to fix it 07:00 – Katie’s TikTok Security Checklist 08:00 – Final tips & monthly action stepsLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocialcommunications.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#TikTokAccountRecovery #QuickCast #RockyMountainMarketing #KatieBrinkley #TikTokHelp #SocialMediaStrategy #CreatorSupport #TikTokSecurity #DigitalMarketingTips #MarketingPodcast

Have you ever felt a bit weird sliding into someone's DMs to connect? It can feel intrusive, like you're overstepping. I get it - I've been there too! But here's the thing - the DMs are where the magic happens in business. You just have to know how to show up authentically and add value. My amazing guest Jenna Larson has mastered the art of organic DMs without sleaze. She helps female entrepreneurs use social media to attract dream clients... without ads or going viral!I loved talking with Jenna about making genuine connections and serving people well. Her advice completely changed my DM strategy - and I know it will help you too! Let me know what you think in the comments! Were any of these tactics new to you? How will you apply them? I can't wait to connect more in the comments!In this episode, you will be able to:Discover how to increase sales through personalized engagement in your DMs.Unlock the power of Group Track for enhancing your social CRM strategies.Learn the secrets to building strong and lasting relationships through DMs.Master the art of creating effective and impactful DM outreach strategies.Explore the benefits of automating DM follow-ups to boost your sales success.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - The Challenge of DMs on Social Media00:01:12 - The Journey of Group Track00:04:40 - The Myth of Going Viral00:05:21 - Making Genuine Connections00:10:56 - Engaging with New Followers00:12:46 - Importance of Continuous Communication00:14:33 - The Role of Group Track in Lead Management00:17:16 - Effective DM Outreach Strategy00:19:23 - Uncovering Leads' Needs00:22:59 - Sales Conversion in DMs00:25:02 - Engaging with Followers00:25:41 - Leveraging Competitor's Followers00:27:50 - Leveraging Automation for Outreach00:29:57 - Reaping the Benefits of Follow-up00:32:03 - Community and Service Sign Up with Metricool today!https://metricool.com/katieVisit Jenna Larson's social media pages:Website: https://grouptrackcrm.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenna-larson-41659827/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocialcommunications.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#DMMarketing #GroupTrackCRM #SocialSellingStrategy #RockyMountainMarketing #KatieBrinkley #SmallBusinessMarketing #LeadGeneration #OnlineBusinessTools #AuthenticSelling #PodcastForEntrepreneurs

Ever opened your Instagram and realized your account was hijacked? You've probably been told to just change your password and hope for the best, right? But let's face it, that's like putting a band-aid on a broken bone – it's not going to fix the real problem. The frustration of losing control of your digital storefront and networking space is beyond inconvenient – it's personal and impacts your business. Ready to learn the real steps to recover your hacked Instagram account and secure it for good?In this episode, you will be able to:Safeguard your Instagram account with these essential recovery steps.Strengthen your Instagram security with two-factor authentication.Master the art of changing your Instagram password for maximum protection.Arm yourself with the knowledge to prevent Instagram account hacks.Unlock the secrets of contacting Instagram for successful account recovery.The key moments in this episode are:00:00:00 - The Importance of Securing Your Instagram Account00:01:22 - Recovering a Hacked Instagram Account00:03:34 - Contacting Instagram for Support00:04:56 - Preventing Future Hacks00:06:51 - Sharing and Connecting Beyond the Podcast Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocialcommunications.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#InstagramMarketing #IGStoriesStrategy #SocialMediaGrowth #ContentMarketingTips #DailyEngagement #InstagramForBusiness #StoryMarketing #PersonalBrandGrowth #DigitalMarketingTips #VisibilityMatters #KatieBrinkley

If you're feeling like you're creating content but hearing crickets, and if you feel like you're speaking to everyone but connecting with no one, then you are not alone! Are you tired of feeling like you're just yelling into the void, creating content that's not turning into sales? If you're ready to build a loyal tribe and turn your audience into raving fans, then this is exactly what you need. Let's uncover the strategies to build your first 1000 person tribe and make it the key to your long-term success.This week's special guest is Catharine O' Leary. Catharine O'Leary is a seasoned marketing strategist who has worked with renowned brands such as Apple and Pepsi. With her expertise, she now focuses on helping entrepreneurs attract their first 1000 true fans through smart lead magnets and scalable audience building strategies. Her deep understanding of the power of personal branding and storytelling in marketing, combined with her practical approach, makes her a valuable resource for small business owners looking to enhance their email marketing strategies and lead generation. Catharine's insights and tips will undoubtedly provide valuable guidance for anyone seeking to grow a loyal tribe and achieve long-term success in their business.In this episode, you will be able to:Master the art of building your first 1000 person tribe and watch your small business thrive.Uncover the power of using AI for audience building strategies and revolutionize your approach to marketing.Create irresistible lead magnets that entrepreneurs can't resist, and watch your leads soar.Transform your small business with email marketing strategies that pack a punch.Harness the strength of personal branding and storytelling to captivate your audience like never before.Sign Up with Metricool today!https://metricool.com/katieJoin CIA now. https://clientintelligenceagency.com/?affid=bffgVisit Catharine O’Leary's social media pages:Website: https://clientintelligenceagency.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/catharineolearyconsultingEmail: catharine@catharineoleary.comLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocialcommunications.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#PersonalBranding #BrandStrategy #EntrepreneurTips #VisibilityMatters #MarketingStrategy #BusinessGrowth #OnlinePresence #AuthenticBranding #AIinMarketing #FemaleEntrepreneurs #KatieBrinkley #CatharineOLeary

In this Quickcast, I’m walking you through what to do if your Facebook account gets hacked—or better yet, how to protect yourself before it happens. With a half-million users infected by a Vietnamese hacker group in 2023, it's more important than ever to tighten your digital security. Whether you’re dealing with a total lockout, impersonation, or just want to stay ahead of the curve, this episode has your back.What You’ll Learn:The first steps to take if your Facebook account is compromisedHow to recover access (even if a hacker changed your info)What to do if someone’s impersonating you on FacebookFacebook security settings you should update right nowThe best tools to manage passwords and prevent future attacksHow to Recover a Hacked Facebook Accounthttps://nextstepsocial.agency/facebookrecoveryLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocialcommunications.comLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#FacebookHacked #FacebookSecurity #SocialMediaTips #KatieBrinkley #RockyMountainMarketing #DigitalSafety #EntrepreneurSecurity #SocialMediaMarketing #OnlineBusinessTips #Quickcast