Small But Mighty Agency: Win clients and build better networks for marketing and consulting agencies

If you’re stuck in execution mode—constantly delivering but not getting paid for the strategic value you bring —it might be time to rethink how your agency is positioned.In this episode of Small But Mighty Agency, I’m joined by Sara Nay, CEO of Duct Tape Marketing, to talk about how agencies can shift from being seen as vendors to being valued as strategic partners who lead the marketing—not just execute it.We dig into what it really looks like to lead with strategy, how to price and package that value, and how to start getting paid for the thinking you’re already doing.Here’s what you’ll take away from the conversation:Why strategy is your agency’s biggest growth leverHow to position strategic services so clients understand (and pay for) the valueThe signs it’s time to add Fractional CMO services to your modelWhat to do if you're worried about falling into another time-for-money trapHow to structure your team to scale strategy without burning outThis conversation will help you build a business model rooted in long-term relationships, recurring revenue, and sustainable growth—all while keeping your execution services in play.Resources & Links:Explore Duct Tape Marketing: ducttapemarketing.comConnect with Sara Nay: Sara Nay on LinkedInGet the full show notes and more information here: https://audreyjoykwan.com/podcast/ep126Podcast Edits by Lindsay Curtis

Let’s talk about referrals—not as a bonus, but as a strategy.If you’ve been growing your agency through great work and word of mouth, but you’re starting to realize that waiting for referrals isn’t the same as designing for them… this episode is for you.Because the most successful Small But Mighty agencies don’t leave referrals to chance. They build referral-ready relationships and strategic partnerships—on purpose.Today, I’m breaking down what trust really looks like in action—and how certain behaviors, often overlooked, are what turn casual connections into consistent opportunities.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why referrals are a strategy—not something to leave to luckThe 8 real-world habits of referral-ready agency ownersHow clarity in your niche makes you more referableWhat real trust looks like in referral-ready relationshipsHow strategic partnerships can grow your agency without cold outreachIt’s not just a mindset—it’s a method. These habits make you easy to refer, easy to collaborate with, and easy to trust.And I’ll share real examples from inside Agency Together where agency owners are doing exactly this—building a system for generosity, connection, and strategic growth.Resources & Links:Agency Together – The referral-ready membership community for Small But Mighty agency owners, learn more here. Strategic Partnership Mixer –  Join us at the next free Agency Together Strategic Partnership Mixer, RSVP here. Hey thank for hanging out with me at the Small But Mighty Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode it would mean the world to me if you hit the follow or subscribe button in your podcast app and share it with a friend. ANd I’ll See you on the next one.Get the full show notes and more information here: https://audreyjoykwan.com/podcast/ep125Podcast Edits by Lindsay Curtis

When I helped sell and exit a niche agency in the orthodontic space, one thing became crystal clear: we didn’t grow by chasing everything.We grew by staying focused, building trust, and saying no to the wrong opportunities — even when it felt risky.It wasn’t loud, but it was strategic, and it worked.And that approach?It’s not just relevant — it’s exactly what works in today’s skeptical market.Clients are more cautious. Referral partners are more selective. And hustle-heavy growth tactics? They’re falling flat.What I’m seeing across the agencies I work with — and inside Agency Together — is a shift:🚫 Less “do more.”✅ More “do what matters”In this episode of the Small But Mighty Agency Podcast, I’m breaking down five growth habits that help small agencies scale without the grind while still building serious momentum.Here’s what I cover:How saying no creates space for stronger positioningThe most underused (and most profitable) part of your growth strategyWhy your so-called “competitors” might be your best growth partnersContent alone isn’t cutting it — here’s what to build insteadThe power of staying small, agile, and wildly efficientIf staying relevant without selling your soul is your priority, this episode is for youResources & Links:Get the Trust Equity Scorecard – My free tool to help you measure how well your agency is building trust at scale — and where to focus next to grow through retainment, referrals, partnerships, and positioning.Connect with me on LinkedIn Don’t forget the free Agency Together Newsletter and access our free mini-course on building Trust Equity to help you be a thought leader agency. Hey thank for hanging out with me at the Small But Mighty Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode it would mean the world to me if you hit the follow or subscribe button in your podcast app and share it with a friend. ANd I’ll See you on the next one.Get the full show notes and more information here: https://audreyjoykwan.com/podcast/ep124Podcast Edits by Lindsay Curtis

Presenting with confidence and clarity isn’t just about public speaking—it’s about winning more business.Whether you’re pitching to a potential client or leading a workshop, your ability to deliver a compelling presentation can make or break the deal.In this episode, Laurie-Ann Murabito, an award-winning professional speaker, shares how agencies can craft client presentations that captivate, establish authority, and drive results. She breaks down a simple yet powerful presentation framework, highlights common pitfalls to avoid, and reveals how storytelling can transform your sales approach.Tune in to discover how to: ✔ Structure your presentations for maximum impact ✔ Avoid common mistakes that undermine your message ✔ Establish authority early so clients listen and trust you ✔ Keep your audience engaged (and not overwhelmed) ✔ Use storytelling to handle objections and convert prospects ✔ Build confidence in public speaking—even if you’re shyThis episode is packed with actionable insights—perfect for agency owners looking to refine their presentation skills and close more deals with confidence!Get Laurie-Ann’s Free Guide: speakandstandout.com/guideListen to Laurie-Ann’s Podcast: Be In Demand PodcastResources & Links:Find me on LinkedInDon’t forget the free Agency Together Newsletter and free mini-course today to grow your agency. Join hundreds of agency owners receiving insights about growing and leading a small but mighty agency. As a bonus, get our free mini-course on building a Trust Equity Ecosystem, so you're not chasing clients and commanding premium rates.Get the free newsletter and bonus free mini-course today. Hey thank for hanging out with me at the Small But Mighty Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode it would mean the world to me if you hit the follow or subscribe button in your podcast app and share it with a friend. And I’ll see you on the next one. Get the full show notes and more information here: https://audreyjoykwan.com/podcast/ep123Podcast Edits by Lindsay Curtis

If you've ever caught yourself thinking, “My team should just know what to do” or “Why can’t my team read my mind?”—this episode is for you.The truth is, unspoken expectations lead to missed deadlines, miscommunication, and frustration on all sides. But there’s a better way to make your expectations so crystal clear that your team knows exactly what needs to be done—without the guesswork?Today, I’m joined by Kendra Johnson, leadership development specialist and founder of The Venned Group to noodle on one of my favourite topics, communication and leadership.We’re going to break down why unclear expectations hold teams back—and how to fix it.In this episode, we’re diving into:The biggest mistakes leaders make when setting expectations (and how to avoid them)How to create alignment so your team understands exactly what success looks likeThe difference between expectations and benchmarks—and why both matterPractical strategies to communicate expectations clearly and get your team fully bought inIf you want to spend less time micromanaging and more time seeing your team thrive, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Let’s get into it!Connect with KendraLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kendrajeanjohnsonWebsite: vennedgroup.comResources & Links:Find me on LinkedInDon’t forget our free build your Trust Equity Ecosystem mini-course today to grow your agency. Join hundreds of agency owners receiving insights about growing and leading a small but mighty agency. As a bonus, get our free mini-course on building a Trust Equity Ecosystem, so you're not chasing clients and commanding premium rates.Get the free newsletter and bonus free mini-course today. Hey thank for hanging out with me at the Small But Mighty Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode it would mean the world to me if you hit the follow or subscribe button in your podcast app and share it with a friend. And I’ll see you on the next one. Get the full show notes and more information here: https://audreyjoykwan.com/podcast/ep122Podcast Edits by Lindsay Curtis

Transitioning from a creative doer to an agency owner is exciting—but it can also be overwhelming. Many creatives struggle with letting go of control, building a team, and shifting from doing the work to leading the business. If you feel stretched thin trying to manage everything, this episode is for you.Today, I’m joined by Kait Day, Founder of Nowadays Studio, who shares her journey from being a burned-out freelancer to leading a thriving five-person agency. She opens up about the challenges of hiring, delegating, and trusting her team—and how doing so has allowed her agency to grow without overworking herself.What you’ll learn in this episode: The real first step to transitioning from creative doer to agency leader The best way to decide what to delegate first and how to set up processes that make it easier.How perfectionism holds agency owners back—and how to shift your mindset to trust your team.Letting  go of misaligned clients, improving team morale and making space to take on better-fit projects.The support system (and who’s in it) that’s helped her to lead betterIf you want to scale your agency without micromanaging, burnout, or bottlenecking your own growth, you won’t want to miss this conversation.Connect with Kait Day:Instagram: @nowadaystudiosLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kait-day/ Resources & Links:Find me on LinkedInDon’t forget the free Agency Together Newsletter and free mini-course today to grow your agency. Join hundreds of agency owners receiving insights about growing and leading a small but mighty agency. As a bonus, get our free mini-course on building a Trust Equity Ecosystem, so you're not chasing clients and commanding premium rates.Get the free newsletter and bonus free mini-course today. Hey thank for hanging out with me at the Small But Mighty Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode it would mean the world to me if you hit the follow or subscribe button in your podcast app and share it with a friend. And I’ll see you on the next one. Get the full show notes and more information here: https://audreyjoykwan.com/podcast/ep121Podcast Edits by Lindsay Curtis

If you’ve ever had a prospect say, “I want to work with you, but I’m not ready for a full retainer,” you might be leaving money on the table. VIP days offer a high-impact way to deliver results quickly—without the commitment of a long-term engagement. But are they the right fit for your agency?In this episode, I sit down with Melissa Mitchell, founder of Wandermint Creative, a YouTube marketing and video coaching agency. Melissa has mastered the VIP day model and shares how she integrated it into her agency to attract premium clients and increase revenue—without overcomplicating her business. She also reveals why she evolved her VIP days into VIP weeks and how it’s benefiting both her agency and her clients.Tune in to learn:What VIP days are and how they work in an agency settingThe biggest benefits of adding VIP days to your service suiteHow VIP days fit into the client journey and support long-term revenueThe unexpected challenges of offering VIP days—and how to overcome themWhy Melissa transitioned from VIP days to VIP weeks for even greater resultsKey tips for pricing, structuring, and selling your VIP offer effectivelyIf you’re looking for new ways to package your expertise, attract the right clients, and scale your agency without overcomplicating your operations, this episode is for you!Connect with Melissa Mitchell:Website: Wandermint CreativeInstagram: @themelissamitchellYouTube: Wandermint CreativeYouTube channel checklist freebie: https://wandermintcreative.com/youtubechecklistMy new VIP Week offer: https://videogrowthplan.com/90-day-roadmapResources & Links:Say hello on LinkedInDon’t forget the free Agency Together Newsletter.Join hundreds of agency owners receiving insights about growing and leading a small – less than 50 people – mighty agency. Try the free newsletter.Hey thank for hanging out with me at the Small But Mighty Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode it would mean the world to me if you hit the follow or subscribe button in your podcast app and share it with a friend. And I’ll see you on the next one. Get the full show notes and more information here: https://audreyjoykwan.com/podcast/ep120Podcast Edits by Lindsay Curtis

The podcast dives into the concept of 'trust equity' and how it's reshaping agency-client dynamics. Surprisingly, 70% of agency decisions are made before showcasing results. Personal stories reveal that clients are often swayed by perceived safety rather than experience. This shift is driving newer agencies to command higher prices despite lesser track records. The conversation challenges traditional validation approaches, emphasizing the importance of trust in today's competitive landscape. It's a must-listen for agencies wanting to adapt and thrive.

Are You Missing Out On 9 Hidden Types of Agency Partnerships?Most agency owners know about basic referral partnerships. But what if I told you there are NINE different types of strategic partnerships that could transform your agency's growth? (And I bet you're only using one of them.)In this special episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on partnership strategies that are quietly generating results for agencies. These aren't your typical "let's trade referrals" arrangements – they're growth engines that can accelerate your client acquisition.Warning: This episode might completely change how you think about growing your agency.You'll discover:The 9 partnership types most agencies don't even know existWhy traditional networking isn't enough anymore (and what to do instead)How to make your marketing and sales feel effortless through strategic partnershipsThe undercover partnership type that's transforming how agencies handle talent and scalingPlus, I'm sharing exactly how to implement each type of partnership, complete with real examples from agencies just like yours.If you want to put these strategies into action. Join us at the Strategic Partnership Mixer. RSVP at agencytogether.com/mixer-event.Stop leaving growth opportunities on the table. Let's transform your approach to partnerships!Resources Mentioned:Agency Together Community: agencytogether.com/RSVP to the Strategic Partnership Mixer Event: agencytogether.com/mixer-eventConnect With Audrey:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kwanaudrey/Don’t forget the free Agency Together Newsletter.Join hundreds of agency owners receiving insights about growing and leading a small – less than 50 people – mighty agency. Try the free newsletter.Hey thank for hanging out with me at the Small But Mighty Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode it would mean the world to me if you hit the follow or subscribe button in your podcast app and share it with a friend. And I’ll see you on the next one. Get the full show notes and more information here: https://audreyjoykwan.com/podcast/ep118Podcast Edits by Lindsay Curtis

What trends will shape the agency landscape in 2025?As we head into 2025, it’s clear the agency world isn’t slowing down—it’s evolving faster than ever. In this episode of the Small But Mighty Agency Podcast, I’m diving into three game-changing trends every agency owner needs to know to stay ahead and plan smart for the year ahead.Let’s be real: AI is everywhere right now, and unless you’ve been living under a rock, you’ve probably noticed its rapid rise. But here’s the thing—it’s not just about AI as a tool. The bigger story is how AI is reshaping human connections and changing how you market and build relationships.We’ll also look at two other key trends shaping 2025: how the misinformation economy is shaking up trust in the market and what the rise of fractional providers means for how agencies operate and innovate.Join me as I break down the opportunities:How AI impacts the growing demand for human connection in marketingWhat you need to navigate the misinformation economy with confidenceThe rise of fractional providers and how it’s changing the game for agenciesGrab your coffee or tea, and let’s tackle these trends together. Resources MentionedEpisode 116: Are You Hesitant to Niche? Let’s Talk About Why (and How to Overcome It)Agency Together Strategic Partnership MixerJoin the ConversationAre you ready to navigate these trends? Join us at the next Agency Together Strategic Partnership Mixer. This is your chance to connect with like-minded agency owners, collaborate, and build referral-ready relationships that can transform your business in 2025.🎟️ Register now at agencytogether.com/mixer-eventIf this episode resonated with you, share it with another agency owner navigating these shifts. Let’s tackle 2025 together and make it a year of meaningful growth and success!Hey thank for hanging out with me at the Small But Mighty Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode it would mean the world to me if you hit the follow or subscribe button in your podcast app and share it with a friend. And I’ll see you on the next one. Get the full show notes and more information here: https://audreyjoykwan.com/podcast/ep117Podcast Edits by Lindsay Curtis