Rocky Mountain Marketing

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m joined by Sara Nay—CEO at Duct Tape Marketing—to dive into a smarter, more sustainable way to grow your business with strategy-first content.We’re talking about what most business owners get wrong when it comes to content, how the Marketing Hourglass can change the way you view your sales journey, and how AI and automation can elevate—not replace—your marketing.Whether you're a solopreneur, service provider, or marketer stuck in the "post more!" cycle, this episode will show you how to simplify your efforts and focus on what actually moves the needle.What You’ll Learn:The 7 stages of the Marketing HourglassWhy your existing clients are your greatest marketing assetHow AI can help create smarter content (and where not to use it)How to use buyer behavior data to drive your next campaignTimestamps00:00 – Intro: Meet Sara Nay02:10 – What is the Marketing Hourglass?06:45 – Common mistakes in content strategy10:30 – How to use AI for smarter marketing13:50 – Automating the customer journey18:15 – Turning customers into referral machines22:00 – Final advice for simplifying your strategyTune in now and stop creating content that goes nowhere!Visit Sara Nay online:Website: https://ducttapemarketing.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saranayYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ducttapemarketingvideoLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab

If you’ve been pouring money into Facebook ads with zero return or relying on Google only to end up buried on page three, it’s time for a shift. In this episode, I sit down with digital marketing veteran Marilyn Jenkins, founder of MJ Media Group, who’s been helping local businesses scale since before most people had email.She breaks down exactly how local businesses are getting 14X ROI using streaming TV ads, how to target zip codes like a sniper, and why Google Business Profile is your make-or-break moment.If you want your business in front of your ideal customer while they’re binge-watching Roku or Tubi, this episode is for you.Key Takeaways:Streaming TV ads are non-skippable and more cost-effective than you thinkYou can target specific zip codes, languages, and behaviorsYour Google Business Profile must be optimized before launching adsLocal businesses—from real estate agents to home services—are seeing massive ROIStrategy without execution is just noise. Pick one thing from this episode and take action.Timestamps: 00:03 – Why your digital ads aren’t converting 02:00 – Meet Marilyn Jenkins: Digital OG with 14X ROI results 04:08 – Why brand visibility is more important than ever 06:44 – Streaming ads are the new TV gold rush 08:40 – How to get started (even with a small budget) 10:05 – Targeting by zip code, language, and behavior 13:00 – The streaming networks you need to know 14:22 – Cost comparison: Streaming TV vs Facebook vs Google 20:53 – Biggest mistake small businesses make with TV ads 22:41 – Why your Google Business Profile is non-negotiable 24:12 – Final thoughts and how to get startedHere’s a challenge for you - audit your digital presence—starting with your Google Business Profile.Follow Rocky Mountain Marketing and share this episode with someone still running ads without a plan.Visit Marilyn Jenkins online:Website: https://marilynjenkins.online/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marilynjenkins/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lawmarketingzone/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@lawmarketingzoneLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab

Raise your hand if you've ever said, “I'll figure it out later.” Spoiler: later often turns into never—and as entrepreneurs, that’s a recipe for burnout. On today’s episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m joined by business operations strategist Jessica Millhiser, founder of J Mills Consulting. With nearly two decades of experience in operations, leadership, and coaching, she’s on a mission to help entrepreneurs shift from reactive to strategic using her five foundational pillars: business identity, client experience, business organization, team growth, and strategic planning.Whether you’re stuck in the weeds of your to-do list, unclear on your version of success, or overwhelmed trying to scale your team—this episode will help you design the business you actually want.Grab a pen, because this one’s full of actionable wisdom that will get you out of your head and moving forward in real-time.Key Takeaways:Why “business identity” is deeper than a mission statement—and how to embody itJessica’s 5 Pillars for sustainable growth (and what most entrepreneurs skip)How defining your version of success leads to confident decision-makingThe truth about effective delegation and building the right teamStrategic planning tips that help you stay focused (and stop chasing shiny objects)Timestamps:00:00 – Katie’s 3 a.m. idea problem (sound familiar?)01:45 – Meet Jessica Millhiser of J Mills Consulting04:13 – What is your business identity, really?10:39 – The 5 foundational pillars of sustainable growth14:47 – Growing your team? Here’s what most founders miss21:06 – Designing the business you want24:53 – Actionable steps to take this weekThis week’s challenge: Take 20 minutes to get one idea out of your head and onto paper—whether it’s a to-do list, a client journey map, or your version of success. Clarity comes from action.If this episode brought you clarity, insight, or even just a deep exhale—please hit subscribe, leave a review, and share it with a fellow entrepreneur.Visit Jessica Millhiser online:Website: https://www.jmillsconsulting.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicamillhiser/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jmills_consulting/Email: jessica@jmillsconsulting.comLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#RockyMountainMarketing #SmallBusinessStrategy #EntrepreneurshipTips #BusinessOperations #TeamGrowth #StrategicPlanning #BusinessSuccess #Podcast #BusinessOperations #ScaleYourBusiness #KatieBrinkley

Here’s a question I’ve been asking clients—and myself: What if posting less actually gets you more traction?In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m peeling back the curtain on how my team at Next Step Social scaled back on content volume, leaned into intentional engagement, and won two international creative awards in the process. This is the exact strategy that’s helping our clients spark real conversations, build trust, and turn community into conversions—all without posting every single day.If you’re tired of the content treadmill, or if your current strategy feels like more noise than impact, this episode is for you.Key Takeaways:Why high-volume posting is not the key to engagementThe “Four Post Strategy” that changed everything for usHow intentional content creates deeper connectionsWhat winning two Hermes Creative Awards means for content strategyWhy it’s time to shift from chaos to connection in your marketingTimestamps:00:03 – Can posting less actually grow your business?01:00 – Why you don’t need to be on all five platforms02:20 – What is the Four Post Strategy?03:45 – The results: more DMs, comments, and conversions04:25 – How Next Step Social won 2 gold Hermes Creative Awards06:00 – The real reason this strategy works06:45 – Invitation to work with Next Step SocialReady to simplify your content while growing your business?Let’s talk strategy → yournextstep.agencyDM me on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook. Let’s connect!Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#IntentionalMarketing #ContentStrategy #SocialMediaGrowth #MarketingWithPurpose #KatieBrinkley #RockyMountainMarketing #FourPostStrategy #SocialMediaSimplified #Podcast #HermesAward #EngagementStrategy

 You’ve been told networking is key to business growth—but if you're still relying on business cards and “just checking in” emails, you're doing it wrong.In this episode, I sit down with Devin Sizemore, business strategist and creator of the Connection Expansion System, to break down:Why your current network isn’t sending you leadsHow to flip the script and actually enjoy networkingA five-step meeting framework that turns strangers into superfansAnd the one mindset shift that will multiply your referrals (without selling)Whether you're new to networking or a seasoned relationship-builder, this episode will help you transform your connections into consistent, qualified opportunities.Key Takeaways:Most referral advice is customer-focused and outdated. Connection-focused networking wins in 2025.Asking for “ideal clients” adds friction. Instead, ask to be connected to strategic partners.Follow-up is everything—use Devin’s template to instantly stand out and add value.Networking meetings aren't for selling. They're for listening, learning, and leveraging.Real ROI in networking comes from consistency and controlling the flow of the conversation.Timestamps:00:00 – Why traditional networking isn’t working02:00 – Meet Devin Sizemore & his connection-first mission05:25 – The problem with referral marketing as you know it08:00 – The wrong way (and right way) to follow up12:00 – How to run a powerful 1:1 connection meeting17:27 – Devin’s 4 go-to questions at every networking event23:00 – How to know if your events are actually working26:00 – Devin’s challenge: One message. One connection. One opportunity.Like what you heard today? Share this episode with someone who's networking like it’s still 2015. And don’t forget to subscribe for more real-talk marketing conversations that drive real results. For Devin’s book + resources, head to ConnectionExpansion.com.Visit Devin Sizemore online:Website:https://devinsizemore.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dpsizemore/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#ReferralMarketing #NetworkingTips #ConnectionStrategy #MarketingMindset #KatieBrinkley #RockyMountainMarketing #BusinessGrowth

What happens if your podcast guest asks you to delete an episode after it airs? Or worse—if you get hit with a copyright notice for using a 5-second audio clip?In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, Katie sits down with renowned media and entertainment attorney Gordon Firemark—aka The Podcast Lawyer—to unpack the essential legal steps every podcaster needs to take to protect their content and business. Gordon breaks down everything from guest release forms to LLC setup, and even dives into how AI is changing the legal game for creators.They recorded this conversation back in April 2025 at Podcast Movement Evolutions, but trust us—every insight is still just as relevant today.Topics Covered:Why podcast guest release forms are a mustThe truth about using copyrighted music, viral clips & TikTok soundsWhen you should consider forming an LLCWhy AI is creating new legal gray areas in podcastingGordon’s best free tools to help podcasters stay legally safeDon’t miss Gordon’s free resources: PodcastRelease.com – Guest release template PodcastPrenup.com – Checklist for co-host agreementsWhether you're a seasoned podcaster or just getting started, this episode could save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches.Visit Gordon Firemark online:Website: https://firemark.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gfiremark/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#PodcastLaw #ContentCreatorTips #LLCForPodcasters #CopyrightForCreators #PodcastingTips #MediaLaw #GordonFiremark #KatieBrinkley #RockyMountainMarketing

What happens when two Katies get together at Podcast Movement Evolutions? A conversation packed with practical, portable, and powerful content creation tips.In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sat down with Katie Fawkes, Director of Marketing at Ecamm, live from Podcast Movement Evolutions in Chicago. Despite being on the road, we used Ecamm to record this episode—showcasing just how flexible and professional content creation can be when the right tools are in place.Even though the event happened back in April 2025, the lessons are still gold.In this episode, we explore:How creators are recording studio-level content anywhere, anytimeWhy simplicity and versatility make Ecamm the go-to platform for entrepreneursThe power of scenes, overlays, and profiles to create branded experiencesWhy Zoom no longer cuts it for modern podcastersHow Ecamm plays well with AI tools to scale your content post-productionWhether you’re a podcasting pro or just getting started, this episode will show you how to make content creation way more fun—and a whole lot easier.Timestamps:00:00 – Meet Katie Fawkes + why this chat matters02:10 – Recording on the go with Ecamm (even in a booth!)06:20 – Why creators need more than Zoom10:45 – How scenes, overlays, and profiles level-up your production14:15 – Making content creation fun again18:40 – How AI tools pair with Ecamm to scale your reach23:00 – Getting started without being a tech expert26:35 – Lessons from the Podcast Movement crowd30:10 – Final thoughts + how to try EcammVisit Katie Fawkes online:Website:https://www.ecamm.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/ecammnetworkLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#EcammLive #ContentCreationTips #PodcastTools #RockyMountainMarketing #KatieBrinkley #KatieFawkes #VideoMarketing #PodcastMovementEvolutions #DigitalMarketingTools #Podcast

Tired of feeling gross every time you try to “sell” your services? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to sell that way anymore.In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with Aleasha Bahr, sales expert, author of The Black Sheep Sales Method, and someone who has completely transformed my approach to selling. We caught up live at Social Media Week Lima to talk about a different way to close more clients—without scripts, pressure, or pretending to be someone you're not.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why traditional sales scripts are outdated and ineffectiveHow to identify and attract the right clients (not just any clients)The secret to improving your close rate by doing less, not moreWhy being a better listener is the ultimate sales superpowerHow Aleasha’s “Black Sheep Sales Method” helps entrepreneurs sell with integrityIf sales has ever felt icky, awkward, or off-brand for you, this episode is the permission slip you didn’t know you needed.Timestamps:00:00 – The truth about why most sales training feels gross01:40 – How Aleasha’s approach changed my business04:20 – What “fit-based selling” really looks like07:45 – Why curiosity and listening close more deals11:05 – The power of disqualifying the wrong leads15:50 – Why your sales framework should match your business goals19:30 – What to say when someone gives you a weird sales objection24:00 – Can AI ever replace human sales conversations?30:00 – Why your voice still matters—even in the age of automationGrab Aleasha’s book: Black Sheep Sales: How to Win More Sales Without Acting Like a Douchebag - https://blacksheepsalesbook.com/Visit Aleasha Bahr online:Website: https://aleashabahr.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleashabahr/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#BlackSheepSales #AleashaBahr #RockyMountainMarketing #KatieBrinkley #AuthenticSales #ServiceBasedBusiness #SalesWithoutSleaze #SocialSelling #EntrepreneurLife #Podcast #Sales

Sign Up with Metricool today!https://metricool.com/katieAre you only tracking sales but missing the bigger story your website is trying to tell you?This week on Rocky Mountain Marketing, we dive into the real power behind your website analytics with digital strategist and author Philippa Gamse. With 25+ years of experience and 500+ clients, Philippa knows exactly how to decode your data and turn it into profit-driving insights.We explore:The biggest mistakes business owners make with website dataHow to discover untapped revenue opportunities through segmentationWhat bounce rate is actually telling you (and what it’s not)How your About Page might secretly be the trust-builder you're overlookingWhy vanity metrics are misleading—and what you should measure insteadTimestamp:00:00 – Why sales numbers alone won’t grow your business02:15 – Philippa’s background and success helping 500+ clients06:45 – Real-life case study: how analytics saved a casino’s bus route11:02 – The power of segmentation (and why bounce rate can lie)17:34 – What your About Page says about trust21:10 – Why business owners ignore the “middle” of the customer journey27:40 – Three analytics every business owner should actually care about34:20 – How AI is impacting website strategy39:00 – Future-proofing your site in the age of AI and short attention spans44:15 – Why Website Wealth is a must-read for business leadersIf you're ready to turn your website into a conversion machine instead of a guessing game, this episode is a must-listen!Whether you’re getting traffic with no conversions, or you’re not sure what’s working at all, this episode gives you the tools to stop guessing and start growing.Hit play now and unlock the hidden insights already living inside your site.Want to go deeper? Grab Philippa’s book Website Wealth— https://a.co/d/eC5IBG3Let’s make your website work harder and smarter—starting today.Visit Philippa Gamse's online:Website: https://websitesthatwin.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philippagamse/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social Communications:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/socialprofitlab#WebsiteAnalytics #SmallBusinessGrowth #DigitalMarketingStrategy #RockyMountainMarketing #KatieBrinkley #WebsiteOptimization #PhilippaGamse #EntrepreneurTips