
Sequence Over Strategy
Welcome to Sequence Over Strategy, a show about small business entrepreneurship. Michelle Warner's goal is to help you find and trust your own sequence of actions rather than follow someone else's theoretical strategy. In every episode she takes a real challenge or question shared by real entrepreneurs like you, and figures out the right next action to take.
Together, you'll wrestle with the problem, examining your business to find solutions. And every time you'll walk away with a single tool or framework, you can apply to your own business. So stop looking for playbooks. Stop chasing strategy. Don't search for all the answers before you act. Act to find your answers.
Latest episodes

Apr 24, 2025 • 23min
Clarity Through Brand Voice
Unlocking the secret to a compelling brand voice can revolutionize your business. A journey of self-discovery leads to the realization that clarity and confidence triumph over traditional strategies. By defining roles and setting boundaries, one finds the strength to communicate authentically. This exploration encourages entrepreneurs to delve into their unique voices, reshaping how they connect with their audience. It's a refreshing reminder that sometimes, understanding yourself is the most powerful strategy.

6 snips
Apr 10, 2025 • 21min
Fix the Right Problem
Entrepreneurs often rush to solutions without pinpointing the actual problem. Learn why quick fixes, like lowering prices, rarely work. Discover the Five Whys framework that helps uncover the root causes of business challenges. Delve into three types of problems: market shifts, internal model changes, and personal needs—each requiring tailored responses. Slowing down to ask better questions can lead to more effective solutions.

15 snips
Mar 27, 2025 • 22min
Make Smarter Decisions with One Habit
Discover how small patterns in your business can make a big difference. A unique journaling exercise helps identify daily wins and challenges. By tracking what's working and what's not, entrepreneurs can gain valuable insights for smarter decision-making. This simple habit not only highlights trends but also keeps strategies aligned with real progress, preventing reactive choices. Join the journey toward effective growth by embracing daily reflections.

12 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 29min
Smart Moves in Tough Times
Surviving economic uncertainty isn't just about big strategy shifts; it's about sequencing your actions wisely. Explore how consumers react during tough times, from cautious optimism to impulsive spending. Learn how products are categorized into essentials and treats, influencing purchasing priorities. The key takeaway? Instead of panicking, businesses should tailor their offers to meet customer needs, positioning them as essential or wise investments.

27 snips
Feb 27, 2025 • 28min
Get Noticed, Not Ignored: Outreach That Works
Are you frustrated by getting ghosted after outreach? Discover how to craft non-cringeworthy, effective messages that actually get responses. Learn tips for leveraging mutual connections and creating value-driven projects. Master the art of thoughtful thank-you notes and purposeful cold outreach. It’s all about building genuine relationships in a noisy world, avoiding the generic messages, and standing out to make lasting connections.

20 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 23min
The Power of Because
Discover how the power of a simple 'because' can dramatically increase your chances of getting a yes. A fascinating study from 1978 reveals that even the most trivial reasons make requests more compelling. Learn how to apply these insights to improve your networking and sales techniques. By incorporating 'because statements' into your communication, you can significantly elevate your engagement and conversion rates. Tune in for practical tips to make your offers irresistible!

Jan 30, 2025 • 23min
The Three Growth Dials
Feeling overwhelmed in your business growth journey? Discover the three essential dials: customer niche, product mix, and marketing mix. These elements help streamline your focus and align your strategy with long-term goals. Dive into common mistakes entrepreneurs make when chasing shiny new opportunities. Learn how to adjust your approach to avoid unnecessary complexity and foster sustainable growth. Stay attentive to what truly moves the needle for your success!

4 snips
Jan 16, 2025 • 26min
Market Smarter: You Are Not Your Client
Are you marketing your business the wrong way? Discover why relationship marketing beats traffic-based tactics, especially for high-end service providers. Prioritizing meaningful connections can lead to greater success. Learn practical strategies to align your marketing approach with the way you serve clients. Dive into this insightful discussion on bridging the gap between your marketing and services, and gain the confidence to navigate these challenges!

Jan 2, 2025 • 20min
Breaking Down the Relationship Marketing Awareness Pie
Dive into the significance of the awareness stage in relationship marketing and discover why it's more pivotal than just driving traffic. Learn about the 'awareness pie' concept, which focuses on effective communication and building trust with your audience. Explore strategies for creating connection avatars to better target potential customers and the role of trust transfer through endorsements. Master these elements to cultivate meaningful relationships that ensure long-term success.

8 snips
Dec 19, 2024 • 14min
Why Relationship Marketing Matters in Today's Market
Discover the transformative power of relationship marketing in today's competitive landscape. As businesses face declining success from traditional methods, the focus shifts to building personal connections with clients. Explore the pivotal changes in market maturity and how they shift the balance of power from sellers to consumers. Learn how to adapt your strategies to engage audiences in a more authentic way, ensuring long-term business growth in a relationship-driven environment.
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