Rocky Mountain Marketing

Want to try Metricool for yourself? Use code Katie30 for a 30-day trial of their premium features.Start your free trial now and see how it fits your business.https://metricool.com/katie?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=influencer&utm_campaign=20250520_katie-brinkley_rmm-jim-mcleod_en&utm_content=audio&utm_term=q2If managing your social media feels harder than it should be—you’re not alone. In this Quickcast, I’m sharing why I made the switch from Loomly to Metricool, the real benefits I’ve seen, and what you should consider when choosing a social media management tool. If you’re tired of juggling messages, tracking metrics manually, or wasting time with clunky workflows, this episode is for you.Key Takeaways:The 3 biggest reasons I switched to MetricoolWhat makes Metricool’s analytics more actionable than Loomly’sWhy the Unified Inbox is a game changer for time-savingHow I automate recurring posts without lifting a fingerWhat features you really need based on your business stageA side-by-side comparison of Loomly vs. MetricoolTimestamps:(00:48) The moment I realized Loomly wasn’t enough(01:39) What I was looking for in a new tool(02:20) Why Metricool met the moment(03:00) Analytics that give you strategic clarity(04:00) The Unified Inbox that saves hours(05:00) Automation for evergreen content(06:00) Pricing, white labeling, and client-ready reports(07:25) Should YOU make the switch?Want to try Metricool for yourself? Use code Katie30 for a 30-day trial of their premium features.Click here to start your free trial and see how it fits your business.https://metricool.com/katie?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=influencer&utm_campaign=20250520_katie-brinkley_rmm-jim-mcleod_en&utm_content=audio&utm_term=q2Learn 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/socialprofitlabNeed help choosing the right platform or setting up your strategy? DM me @katiebrinkley or visit Next Step Social and Podcasting.#SocialMediaTools #Metricool #Loomly #MarketingWorkflow #SocialMediaStrategy #QuickCast #KatieBrinkley #RockyMountainMarketing #Podcast #MarketingPodcast

What do you remember about your favorite brand? Chances are, it's a color, a logo, a look—that’s visual marketing at work. In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m joined by Jim McLeod, designer-turned-marketer and author of The Visual Marketer. We dive into the power of branding visuals, how to use them effectively even if you’re not a designer, and what AI means for the future of brand identity.Key Takeaways:How design impacts brand trust and salesThe difference between visual branding and brand strategyWhy consistency is the most powerful brand assetHow small businesses can compete visually with the big brandsEthical considerations in AI-generated visualsTools that marketers can use (without going to design school)Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Visual Marketing01:12 Meet Jim McLeod: Designer Turned Marketer02:11 The Journey from Design to Marketing05:00 The Science of Visuals in Branding07:04 Practical Tips for Creating Memorable Visuals11:56 AI's Impact on Design and Marketing14:58 Tools and Techniques for Non-Designers17:26 Ethical Considerations in AI and Design18:11 Future of Design in the Age of AI21:57 Conclusion and Key TakeawaysGrab Jim McLeod’s new book The Visual Marketer at visualmarketer.co and start creating design-led content that actually connects. Follow Jim on LinkedIn for more branding tips, or reach out to build a visual identity that sets you apart.Sign Up with Metricool today!https://metricool.com/katieVisit Jim MacLeod's social media pages:Website: https://book.jimmacleod.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-macleod-72509a6/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimmacleod/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@JimMacLeodLearn 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#VisualMarketing #BrandStrategy #AIInDesign #RockyMountainMarketing #JimMcLeod #KatieBrinkley #BrandIdentity

Tired of posting every day and still seeing crickets? I get it. In this QuickCast episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m giving you five actionable, proven strategies to grow your social media—even if you’re starting from scratch. These aren’t hacks for vanity metrics. These are growth moves that build visibility, connection, and actual engagement.Key Takeaways:Why 5–7 second short videos are your best growth toolHow shouting out creators can increase your reach (for free)The bio tweak that makes followers stick aroundWhy being “for everyone” actually hurts your brandHow to collaborate your way to more visibilityTimestamps:(00:00) Why your posts aren’t landing(01:00) Tip #1: Ultra-short form video that drives replays(03:00) Tip #2: Shout out top creators for organic reach(04:00) Tip #3: Use a clear value statement in your bio(05:00) Tip #4: Don’t be for everyone—find your lane(07:00) Tip #5: Partner up to grow smarter, not harderWant a content strategy that doesn’t rely on burning yourself out?Book a 1:1 strategy intensive with me at Next Step Social and Podcasting and walk away with a plan you can actually stick to—and see results from.Whether you’re a creator, coach, or business owner, I’ll help you turn your social presence into a system that drives real growth.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#SocialMediaTips #QuickCast #GrowOnSocial #InstagramGrowth #KatieBrinkley #RockyMountainMarketing

Ever feel like content creation is a hamster wheel you can’t escape? You’re posting daily, showing up everywhere, and still not seeing real results. My guest today, Jessica Stansberry, has built a business that works for her—24/7. In this episode, we talk about how she uses YouTube to create evergreen content that generates leads and sales on autopilot, how to overcome your fear of showing up on video, and why the right title and thumbnail might matter more than your content.Key Takeaways:Why YouTube beats short-form platforms for longevityHow to overcome fear and insecurities on cameraThe real “rules” for video length, titles, and thumbnailsJessica’s SEO strategy for being found months (or years) laterTips for building a freedom-first business model with contentTimestamps:[00:05] The problem with the content hustle[01:09] Meet Jessica Stansberry: Content machine + freedom advocate[04:21] Why YouTube > Reels & TikTok for ROI[05:51] How to get started—even if you’re scared[08:50] Ideal YouTube video length explained[10:39] Making your content entertaining (even if you're "boring")[13:22] Insecurities on camera—and why they don't matter[19:55] What’s inside Jessica’s Post to Profit program[21:23] How she does keyword research (TubeBuddy + Keywords Everywhere)[24:40] Getting found in Suggested vs. Search[26:27] Title + Thumbnail strategy that drives real clicksReady to start making content that actually converts? Grab Jessica’s Post to Profit program and learn how to create digital products and videos that earn while you sleep. Sign Up with Metricool today!https://metricool.com/katieTry Keywords Everywhere:https://keywordseverywhere.com/Visit Jessia Stansberry's social media pages:Website: https://heyjessica.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicastansberry/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicastansberry/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@jessicastansberryLearn 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#EvergreenContent #YouTubeMarketing #ContentStrategy #JessicaStansberry #PassiveIncome #RockyMountainMarketing #PostToProfit #ContentCreationTips #VideoMarketing #DigitalCourses #ContentAutomation #KatieBrinkley #YoutubeStrategy

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