The Mindful Marketing Podcast (Formerly Known As The Savvy Social Podcast)

A creepy collectible toy might not be your marketing inspo but hear me out. There’s a reason Labubu is all over your feed. In this episode, I break down the wild obsession behind Labubu and what small business owners can learn from it. From building community to harnessing scarcity, this isn’t just about trends… it’s about staying memorable in a sea of sameness. If your marketing feels too safe or too forgettable, this is your nudge to do things differently. In this episode of the podcast, I talk about:  Why Labubu’s weirdness works (and how to own yours) What makes something “obsession-worthy” in 2025 Storytelling and scarcity: the combo that sells Curated chaos vs. polished branding Why speaking to the heart still wins over logic   This Episode Was Made Possible By: Riverside All-in-One Podcast & Video Platform Visit Riverside and use the code DREA to get 15% off any Riverside individual plan. We use it to record all our podcast interviews: https://onlinedrea.com/riverside    Go to the show notes for all the resources mentioned in this episode: https://onlinedrea.com/368

My favorite way to get new clients? It’s not social media or email. It’s referrals from friends. And that kind of trust doesn’t just show up. It’s built. In this episode, I’m joined by Jessica Abel, an artist-turned-business coach, to talk about relationship-based marketing—what it looks like, how it works, and why so many creatives struggle to sell their work. We also dig into business models, service-based offers, and how to rethink “sustainable” growth in your business.  If you’re tired of trying to scale like an influencer and ready for something that actually supports your life, you’ll love this one. In this episode of the podcast, we talk about: Why referrals outperform most marketing channels How to build a business model that fits your life The real reason courses and products are hard to sell What to do if you’re burned out on content How introverts can still thrive with relationship marketing …And More!   This Episode Was Made Possible By: Riverside All-in-One Podcast & Video Platform Visit Riverside and use the code DREA to get 15% off any Riverside individual plan. We use it to record all our podcast interviews: https://onlinedrea.com/riverside    About the Guest: Jessica Abel is a graphic novelist, author, and the founder of Autonomous Creative, where she helps accomplished creative professionals build businesses as brilliant as they are. Drawing on 30 years as a cartoonist and author combined with 10 years as a business owner, Jessica knows how to take someone's creative brilliance and turn it into an unconventional and profitable business. In other words, she's helping creatives do more than pay the mortgage. They're enjoying freedom from financial anxiety, time for their personal priorities, and doing truly meaningful work. Website: https://jessicaabel.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autonomouscreative/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jccabel/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AutonomousCreative    Go to the show notes for all the resources mentioned in this episode: https://onlinedrea.com/367

Mariah Magazine, an award-winning SEO consultant and YouTube content creator, delves into the resurgence of long-form content in today's digital landscape. Discover why long-form is a trust builder and how it enhances authority in the age of AI. Mariah shares her successful YouTube growth and monetization strategies, emphasizing actionable SEO techniques. She also explores innovative approaches to email list growth while addressing the critical role of SEO in boosting online visibility. Say goodbye to fleeting social media content and hello to lasting connections!

If the summer heat is draining your energy, your content shouldn’t be doing the same. In this episode, I’m breaking down the 3 habits that are quietly sabotaging your marketing—and what to do instead. Because you can stay visible without chasing trends, obsessing over metrics, or posting daily just to keep up. Whether you’re in a summer slump or just tired of the pressure, this episode will help you slow down, recalibrate, and market with more intention. In this episode of the podcast, I talk about:  Why posting every day is outdated advice When trends are helpful—and when they’re just a distraction How over-tracking your metrics can stall your momentum The mindset shift that helps you stay consistent without burnout   This Episode Was Made Possible By: Riverside All-in-One Podcast & Video Platform Visit Riverside and use the code DREA to get 15% off any Riverside individual plan. We use it to record all our podcast interviews: https://onlinedrea.com/riverside    Go to the show notes for all the resources mentioned in this episode: https://onlinedrea.com/365

Discover three strategic social media posts that can build trust in your audience even during slower periods. Learn how teaching-style content positions you as an expert and why sharing your work fosters connection. Explore the power of values-based posts that resonate deeply, allowing you to engage meaningfully without feeling the pressure of constant posting. These approaches not only keep you visible but also create lasting relationships while you take a break.

Feeling like Instagram just isn’t hitting the way it used to? You're not alone. This week, I sat down with Instagram strategist Michelle Gifford to get honest about what’s actually working right now—and what isn’t. We talk through how to make content creation sustainable, how the algorithm really works, and what makes marketing feel more aligned (especially when you’re also raising kids, juggling clients, and trying not to burn out). If you want smarter Instagram marketing without overthinking every post, this one’s for you. In this episode of the podcast, we talk about: The real reason your posts might not be performing Why batching doesn’t work for everyone How to balance trends, authenticity, and reach What the algorithm actually wants from you Tips for showing up without burning out …And More!   This Episode Was Made Possible By: Riverside All-in-One Podcast & Video Platform Visit Riverside and use the code DREA to get 15% off any Riverside individual plan. We use it to record all our podcast interviews: https://onlinedrea.com/riverside    About the Guest: Michelle Gifford is a strategist, coach, podcaster and agency owner, here when you’re ready to take your business to the next level without sacrificing what matters most! Michelle is the go-to Instagram expert for business owners who want results. She’s the secret weapon behind six and seven-figure brands who are growing, making an impact, selling out programs and bringing home serious profit – all from Instagram! Website: https://iammichellegifford.com  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iammichellegifford/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichelleGifford/   Go to the show notes for all the resources mentioned in this episode: https://onlinedrea.com/363  

Discover how to run a business without sacrificing your well-being. The host shares a personal journey, including a panic attack that reshaped their view on work-life balance. Learn about the impact of parasocial pressure on personal brands and the importance of setting boundaries in marketing. Explore how prioritizing your values can create better connections with clients and why redefining hard work is essential for sustainable success. This conversation is a refreshing take on mindful entrepreneurship.

One of my favorite ways to get clients? Podcast guesting. And no—it’s not just about showing up, sharing tips, and hoping for the best. It’s about building real relationships, delivering value, and knowing how to turn one great interview into long-term opportunities. This week, I’m joined by Sam Brake Guia, podcast host and co-founder of PodWritten, to break down how to approach podcast guesting with purpose. We cover everything from pitching to what you actually say on the mic, and how to make the most of every interview—even if it doesn’t lead to clients right away. Want to build better relationships and get leads from podcasts? Start here. In this episode of the podcast, we talk about: How to prep for podcast guest interviews What to say (and avoid) as a guest The art of relationship building with hosts How to naturally share your work without over-promoting What to do when guesting doesn’t lead to sales …And More!   This Episode Was Made Possible By: Riverside All-in-One Podcast & Video Platform Visit Riverside and use the code DREA to get 15% off any Riverside individual plan. We use it to record all our podcast interviews: https://onlinedrea.com/riverside    About the Guest: Sam Brake Guia is the Co-founder of PodWritten, a podcast booking agency for health and wellness businesses, and the host of Mics to Millions, a podcast that shares interviews with top-tier hosts, insights from podcasting experts, and solo episodes to help you grow your health and wellness podcast. Website: https://podwritten.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samuelbrakeguia/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sambguia/, https://www.instagram.com/podwritten/   Go to the show notes for all the resources mentioned in this episode: https://onlinedrea.com/361  

SEO isn’t dead; it just evolved. Google’s algorithm has changed a lot in recent years, and if you’re still thinking like it’s 2012 (hello, keyword stuffing!), this episode is for you. I’m joined by Lindsey Busfield of Optimize My Firm to break down what’s actually working in SEO right now—from AI changes and backlink credibility to the human-first experience Google’s really prioritizing. In this episode of the podcast, we talk about: Why outdated SEO tactics can hurt you What the algorithm really wants now How AI impacts search results (and traffic) What bloggers, business owners, and local pros need to know How to write SEO content people actually want to read …And More!   This Episode Was Made Possible By: Riverside All-in-One Podcast & Video Platform Visit Riverside and use the code DREA to get 15% off any Riverside individual plan. We use it to record all our podcast interviews: https://onlinedrea.com/riverside    About the Guest: Lindsey Busfield, the Vice President of Optimize My Firm, an SEO and content marketing agency that is behind some of the nation’s most powerful law firm websites. Having worked with numerous personal injury attorneys who have been burned by other SEO agencies, Lindsey has created a business model that addresses the major issues that plague the industry: namely overpromising, underdelivering, and locking clients in with contracts. Additionally, Lindsey is the host of the Personal Injury Marketing Minute podcast that dives into marketing, business development, and interesting cases in the personal injury world. Lindsey is also a proud mom of two girls and will talk your ear off about pickleball if given the chance.  Website: www.optimizemyfirm.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsey-busfield/   Go to the show notes for all the resources mentioned in this episode: https://onlinedrea.com/360

“Hire a team, scale fast, never stop growing.” That’s the advice we’ve all heard. But what if that isn’t your dream? What if building a business that actually supports your life means not hiring a big team? This week, Maggie Patterson joins me to talk about her new book, Staying Solo, and why more business owners are choosing to stay lean, profitable, and in control—without sacrificing growth. We get real about the myths of solo business, the financial numbers people avoid, and the very real pressure to “look legit” online. If you’ve ever felt weird about staying small, this one’s for you. In this episode of the podcast, we talk about: Why staying solo is a valid long-term business model The real cost of growing too fast What most business owners aren’t tracking How Maggie marketed her book with a private podcast Why solo businesses are often more human …And More!   This Episode Was Made Possible By: Riverside All-in-One Podcast & Video Platform Visit Riverside and use the code DREA to get 15% off any Riverside individual plan. We use it to record all our podcast interviews: https://onlinedrea.com/riverside    About the Guest: Maggie Patterson is the creator of BS-Free Business® and the author of Staying Solo®. With 20 years of experience as a successful entrepreneur in client services, Maggie helps service business owners build what she proudly calls a “boring business”—strategically small, sustainable, and designed to fit their lives without the constant hustle. A podcaster and writer, Maggie is a vocal advocate for humane business practices rooted in respect, empathy, and trust. She hosts two podcasts, Staying Solo and Confessions of a Micro Agency Owner, and co-hosts the consumer advocacy podcast Duped: The Dark Side of Online Business. Website: www.bsfreebusiness.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bsfreebusiness/  Threads: https://www.threads.com/@bsfreebusiness    Go to the show notes for all the resources mentioned in this episode: https://onlinedrea.com/359