The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast

SMP vs Fractional CMO vs Coach - What Does Each Do?​ [E167]

Aug 27, 2025
Join experts J.R. Portman, an automotive marketing strategist, and Danni Marks, a client success manager in the automotive sector, as they discuss the crucial differences between marketing agencies, fractional CMOs, and business coaches. Discover how blurred roles can lead to chaos in auto repair shops, and learn the importance of clear communication and trust in these partnerships. They also delve into how specialized software can enhance operational efficiency and the ideal characteristics of shop owners ready to embrace fractional CMOs.
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INSIGHT

Marketing Fulfillment Is Execution

  • Shop Marketing Pros executes hands-on deliverables like websites, SEO, Google Ads, and social media management for shops.
  • They own implementation and optimization of those digital marketing channels rather than high-level strategy.
INSIGHT

Fractional CMO Owns Strategy And Oversight

  • A fractional CMO should drive overall marketing strategy and hold vendors accountable to that plan.
  • They analyze reports, listen to calls, and ensure vendor work aligns with shop goals rather than doing all execution.
INSIGHT

Coaches Teach Business, Not Channels

  • Coaching focuses on business operations, financial literacy, pricing, phone skills, and leadership rather than running marketing channels.
  • Coaches help shop owners become better operators and interpret whether marketing returns make sense for their business.
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