Rocky Mountain Marketing- Digital Marketing for Entrepreneurs

Ever wonder why your marketing isn’t attracting the right audience—even when your product is great? In this episode, I sit down with Lisanne Murphy, creator of Lumina Growth Lab and a master of scaling businesses using psychology-driven strategies. We explore what “dream traffic” actually means, why not all leads are created equal, and how understanding your audience’s behavior can cut acquisition costs in half.You’ll learn:Why demographic targeting isn't enoughHow to shift your messaging in response to market dynamicsThe psychology behind scroll-stopping contentStrategic slowing down for better business clarityTimestamp:00:00 Introduction to Psychological Marketing01:04 Meet Lizanne Murphy: Scaling Businesses with Psychology02:07 Understanding Dream Traffic09:12 Psychological Triggers for Immediate Action17:06 The Importance of Slowing Down for Business Success22:50 Conclusion and Ways to ConnectIf you’re a business owner, coach, or entrepreneur looking to grow smarter—not harder—this episode is a must-listen.Tune in now to discover how to turn dream traffic into loyal clients. Visit Lisanne Murphy:Website: https://themarketingmatrixpodcast.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisanne-murphyLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m joined by Mike Montague, creator of the Avenue 9 AI Tools list and a leading voice in ethical, human-first marketing with AI. We dive into the tools, mindset shifts, and ethical considerations every business owner needs to navigate the evolving AI landscape. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just testing the waters with ChatGPT, this episode will help you better understand how to use AI—and more importantly, why your voice still matters.From improving productivity to saving hours of admin work, we talk through Mike’s favorite tools (including which ones are worth paying for), how to maintain authenticity when automating, and the three “C’s” every business owner should remember in the age of AI: Creativity, Curation, and Coaching.What You’ll Learn:Mike’s top 9 AI tools for content, systems, and time managementHow to use AI without sounding robotic or genericWhy human-first marketing is the future of business growthHow to create a voice model in ChatGPTWhere most small business owners go wrong with automationTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: Transforming Your AI Experience01:06 Meet the Expert: Mike from Avenue Nine02:19 Philosophy of Human-First AI Marketing05:09 AI Tools for Small Business Owners10:35 Zoom AI Companion: Perfect Attendance Award14:26 Notebook LM: Most Organized and Best Banter17:04 Podcasting and Presentation Tools22:19 Grammarly and Whisper: Enhancing Your Writing25:09 Sales Connector: LinkedIn Networking27:06 Final Thoughts and TakeawaysIf you're ready to work with AI (instead of competing against it), this episode is your roadmap. Subscribe to Rocky Mountain Marketing for fresh, human-centered strategies that actually move the needle—and don’t forget to share this episode with a fellow creator or coach who’s ready to scale smarter.Visit Mike Montague:Website: https://avenue9.com/mike-montague/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedmontagueLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Starting a podcast is easy—but building one that shortens your sales cycle, drives high-ticket leads, and supports your business? That’s a different game.In this episode, Katie sits down with Megan Dougherty of One Stone Creative to unpack the business strategy behind podcasting. They dive into podcast value math, why most shows fail to convert, and how to create episodes that become evergreen sales tools.What You’ll Learn:How to design a podcast that fits your business goalsWhy 12-15 focused episodes might be more powerful than 100 inconsistent onesThe real KPIs that drive ROI (hint: it’s not downloads)When (and how) to turn your podcast into a strategic referral engineTimestamps:00:00 Introduction and Podcasting Strategy Overview01:08 Guest Introduction: Megan Doherty02:06 Common Misconceptions About Podcasting03:47 Designing a Podcast for Business Outcomes05:10 Shortening the Sales Cycle with Podcasts08:05 Entertainment vs. Business Podcasts09:56 Measuring Podcast Success13:54 Business Podcast Blueprints and State of Business Podcasting Report21:07 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationWant to create a podcast that does more than entertain? Visit podcastingforbusiness.com for Megan’s full blueprint. DM Katie on LinkedIn if you want help bringing your podcast strategy to life.Visit Megan Dougherty online:Website: http://podcastingforbusiness.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doughertymegan/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-business-podcast-spotlight/id1801282981Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, host Katie Brinkley speaks with Jeff Holman, founder of Intellectual Strategies and a seasoned attorney who helps startups and growing businesses navigate the tricky legal terrain of entrepreneurship. They dive into the most common legal mistakes founders make, such as skipping trademark registration, not having the right agreements in place, and relying too heavily on AI-generated contracts.Jeff explains why legal protection isn't just for "later" and how foundational documents like founder agreements and offer letters can save entrepreneurs time, money, and stress down the road. From trademark myths to fractional legal teams, this episode is packed with actionable insights for small business owners ready to scale smart and safe.What You’ll Learn:Why skipping trademark registration could cost you big laterThe difference between branding assets and trademark-worthy materialsWhen and why to use founder agreements or offer lettersWhy AI-generated legal documents can hurt more than helpHow to plan your legal strategy based on where your business is headedTimestamps:00:00 – Intro03:15 – Why trademarks matter more than you think08:40 – Avoiding partnership disasters14:00 – The AI trap: what not to DIY legally20:00 – How to structure legal support as you grow28:15 – What questions to ask during your first legal consult34:00 – Closing thoughts and next stepsReady to stop guessing and start protecting your business the right way?Hit play on this episode and walk away with actionable legal strategies that every founder, coach, or creator must know. Don’t wait until it’s too late—your brand deserves to be protected from the start.Subscribe to Rocky Mountain Marketing for more expert-backed tips on growing your business with confidence. And if you found this episode valuable, share it with another entrepreneur who needs to hear this today.Your business is worth protecting—start now.Visit Jeff Holman online:Website: https://www.intellectualstrategies.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holman/Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 & Podcasting: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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 converting02:00 – Meet Marilyn Jenkins: Digital OG with 14X ROI results04:08 – Why brand visibility is more important than ever06:44 – Streaming ads are the new TV gold rush08:40 – How to get started (even with a small budget)10:05 – Targeting by zip code, language, and behavior13:00 – The streaming networks you need to know14:22 – Cost comparison: Streaming TV vs Facebook vs Google20:53 – Biggest mistake small businesses make with TV ads22:41 – Why your Google Business Profile is non-negotiable24:12 – 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 & Podcasting: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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 & Podcasting: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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 & Podcasting: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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

 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 & Podcasting: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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.