The Smart Marketer Podcast

Join hosts Molly Pittman, Ezra Firestone, and John Grimshaw as they share their proven paths to success (for your business, brand, and personal life). These Veteran marketers and educators have taught thousands of business owners how to build, manage, and scale successful companies (while growing their own multi-million dollar brands). This weekly podcast will blend tactical marketing tips and strategies with helpful insight and personal stories. This podcast will help you 'Serve the world unselfishly and profit.'

Episode 230: What’s Working Mid-2025, Part 4 – Mindset (Part 2) My Dad Died and It Sucked, But It’s Also Been the Most Beautiful Thing That’s Happened in My Life 07/30/2025

Episode 230: What’s Working Mid-2025, Part 4 – Mindset (Part 2) My Dad Died and It Sucked, But It’s Also Been the Most Beautiful Thing That’s Happened in My Life Episode 230: What’s Working Mid-2025, Part 4, Mindset (Part 2) "My Dad Died and It Sucked, But It’s Also Been the Most Beautiful Thing That’s Happened in My Life" Episode Description In this powerful continuation, Molly Pittman picks up where Part 1 left off and shares the final seven lessons she learned after losing her father. This isn’t just about grief. It’s about redefining success, leadership, and what it means to fully live. If you’re feeling stretched, stuck, or just want to lead with more presence, this episode will move you. “Presence is often more healing than fixing.” – Molly Pittman These reflections will shift how you build your business, love your people, and show up for yourself. You Will Learn: Why your business should be able to run without you The surprising gift of giving people space to choose How community accelerates healing and growth The reason you should stop delaying joy Why duality is the secret to peace A radical new definition of self-care The power of presence over problem-solving Links & Resources: Smart Marketer – Smart Marketer Summer Sale – Apply for AppLovin Beta – Omnisend – (Use coupon code “SMART” for 50% off your first 3 months) Molly Pittman – Instagram – Fields of Freedom Dog Rescue – Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro, Picking up where Part 1 left off 01:53 – Lesson 7: The Power of Community 05:52 – Lesson 8: Stepping Away Is Healthy (And Your Systems Should Support It) 09:42 – Lesson 9: Don’t Wait to Live 11:03 – Living Now, Not Someday 12:13 – Lesson 10: Let People Choose (It Builds Independence) 14:47 – Lesson 11: Embrace the Duality of Life 16:59 – Lesson 12: I Will No Longer Deprive Myself 18:20 – Give Yourself Permission to Enjoy Life 19:25 – Lesson 13: Presence Over Fixing 20:43 – Final Reflections and Gratitude Your Engagement Matters If you’re getting value from this series, share it with a marketer or business owner you know. • Follow or review on Apple Podcasts • Tag us and share your takeaways on social using #WeOutHere • Questions or feedback? Email us at Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit. /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/37351340

Episode 229: What’s Working Mid-2025, Part 4 – Mindset (Part 1) My Dad Died and It Sucked, But It’s Also Been the Most Beautiful Thing That’s Happened in My Life 07/23/2025

Episode 229: What’s Working Mid-2025, Part 4 – Mindset (Part 1) My Dad Died and It Sucked, But It’s Also Been the Most Beautiful Thing That’s Happened in My Life Episode 229: What’s Working Mid-2025, Part 4 – Mindset (Part 1) "My Dad Died and It Sucked, But It’s Also Been the Most Beautiful Thing That’s Happened in My Life" Episode Description In this deeply personal episode, Molly Pittman reflects on the sudden loss of her father, and the powerful lessons it’s taught her about life, business, and what truly matters. If you’re navigating grief, burnout, or just feeling disconnected from your purpose, this raw and reflective solo episode will meet you where you are. “Our only sole purpose here on Earth is to be ourselves and to give and receive love.” – Molly Pittman From presence to portals, Molly shares six transformative insights that have shifted how she leads, lives, and loves. You Will Learn: Why presence is the most powerful leadership tool How grief rewires your understanding of time and energy Why emotional and physical wellbeing must come first A new lens on purpose (and why you can stop searching for it) How to resolve regret before it owns you Why travel isn't indulgent, it's medicine for your creativity Links & Resources: Smart Marketer – Smart Marketer Summer Sale – Apply for AppLovin Beta – Omnisend – (Use coupon code “SMART” for 50% off your first 3 months) Molly Pittman – Instagram – Fields of Freedom Dog Rescue – Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro: A Personal Episode About Loss, Mindset and Growth 02:06 – Why Molly Felt Compelled to Record This (Grief, Growth, and Business) 05:34 – The Last Night She Spent With Her Dad 13:00 – Life After Loss: Honoring Her Dad and Healing 15:29 – Lesson 1: Presence Is Everything 18:37 – Lesson 2: Money Matters, But You Can’t Take It With You 21:56 – Lesson 3: You Can’t Undo Regret, Resolve It Now 24:10 – Lesson 4: Our Sole Purpose Is to Love and Be Ourselves 28:04 – Lesson 5: Your Emotional and Physical State Is Everything 30:16 – Lesson 6: Travel Heals and Sparks Creativity 33:41 – Walking Through Portals, Why Movement Creates Momentum 34:50 – Preview, What’s Coming in Part 2 Your Engagement Matters! If you’re getting value from this series, share it with a marketer or business owner you know. • Follow or review on • Tag us and share your takeaways on social using #WeOutHere • Questions or feedback? Email us at Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit. /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/37222035

Episode 228: What’s Working Mid-2025, Part 3, Conversion Rate Optimization with John Grimshaw 07/16/2025

Episode 228: What’s Working Mid-2025, Part 3, Conversion Rate Optimization with John Grimshaw Episode 229: What’s Working Mid-2025, Part 4, Conversion Rate Optimization with John Grimshaw Episode Description In this episode of the summer series, Smart Marketer CMO John Grimshaw breaks down one of the most overlooked growth levers in digital marketing: conversion rate optimization. Whether you're optimizing headlines, simplifying your landing pages, or bundling smarter offers, these case studies from Boom, Pretty Farm Girl, and SafeSleeve show you exactly what’s working right now. “Bringing more money in when you drive a sale is the easiest way to grow the business.” – John Grimshaw This episode is packed with actionable takeaways and real client wins, including major lifts in AOV and conversion rates across three different brands. You Will Learn: How Boom nearly doubled AOV by changing their front-end offer Why simplified landing pages outperformed complex ones How Pretty Farm Girl increased conversions with a simple nav change What a headline test can teach you about your customer The power of “cardification” for homepage usability How SafeSleeve boosted conversions with small, smart tweaks Where to start testing when you want a meaningful CRO win Links & Resources: Smart Marketer – Smart Marketer Summer Sale – Apply for AppLovin Beta – Omnisend – (Use coupon code “SMART” for 50% off your first 3 months) John Grimshaw – Boom by Cindy Joseph – Pretty Farm Girl – SafeSleeve – Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro, Wrapping up the Summer Series 02:18 – Why John Lives in CRO 03:47 – CRO Accelerator and Summer Sale 06:16 – Case Study 1: Boom – Boosting AOV with a Bundled Trio Offer 09:50 – Why AOV Is Your Best Lever 11:20 – Case Study 2: Pretty Farm Girl – Simpler Pages, Higher Conversions 14:29 – Boosting Trust with Badges and Callouts 16:01 – Case Study 3: SafeSleeve – Headline and Homepage Wins 18:20 – Headline Tips: Benefit Beats Question 20:28 – What Is Cardification? 21:54 – Make Buttons Feel Clickable 22:44 – Where to Start with CRO 24:14 – Make a Hypothesis Before You Test 24:54 – Final Thoughts and Strategy Your Engagement Matters! If you’re getting value from this series, share it with a marketer or business owner you know. • Follow or review on Apple Podcasts • Tag us and share your takeaways on social using #WeOutHere • Questions or feedback? Email us at Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit. /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/37352050

Episode 227: What’s Working Mid-2025, Part 2 - Improving Retention and Monetization Strategies with Email and SMS 07/09/2025

Episode 227: What’s Working Mid-2025, Part 2 - Improving Retention and Monetization Strategies with Email and SMS Episode 227: Improve Retention and Monetization Strategies with Email and SMS - What’s Working Mid-2025, Part 2 Episode Description Retention is the engine behind sustainable growth, and it’s more important than ever in 2025. This is part 2 of a 4-part series on what’s working right now in direct-to-consumer marketing. In this follow-up episode, Molly Pittman and John Grimshaw share four tactical retention and monetization strategies using email and SMS. These are the backend wins that help you convert more leads into buyers and get the most value from your list. If you want to engage customers, drive more revenue, and make your messages stand out in 2025, this one's for you. “You absolutely need to be thinking also, which emails get the most engagement. How do I find different destinations I can send people to besides collection pages, besides product pages, besides offer pages to get them interested.” — John Grimshaw (11:54) You Will Learn How to increase email click rates post-iOS updates Why you should never end a promotion on a holiday The surprising results from testing email send times How to turn one email into multiple high-performing sends The role of SMS as both a reminder and a revenue driver What to include in your sale follow-up campaigns Links and Resources Smart Marketer – Smart Marketer Summer Sale – Apply for AppLovin Beta – Omnisend – (Use coupon code “SMART” for 50% off your first 3 months) Timestamps 00:00 – Intro from Anthony and Ezra’s Omnisend Endorsement 02:52 – Molly and John Kick Off: Retention and Monetization Focus 03:12 – Why This Is the Backend That Drives Profit 06:28 – Tip #1: Boost Click Rates by Building Interactivity 10:40 – Tip #2: Never End Your Promo on the Holiday 14:13 – Tip #3: Send When Your Audience Shops 20:10 – Tip #4: Repeat Winners and Resend to Non-Openers 26:25 – Wrap-Up and Preview of Next Week on Conversion Strategies Your Engagement Matters If you’re getting value from this series, share it with a marketer or business owner you know. • Follow or review on • Tag us and share your takeaways on social using #WeOutHere • Questions or feedback? Email us at Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit. /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/37220000

Episode 226: What’s Working Mid-2025 In Paid Traffic - 5 Paid Ad & Offer Strategies Driving Results 07/02/2025

Episode 226: What’s Working Mid-2025 In Paid Traffic - 5 Paid Ad & Offer Strategies Driving Results Episode 226: What’s Working Mid-2025 - 5 Paid Ad & Offer Strategies Driving Results Episode Description The digital landscape is moving fast, but Smart Marketer is staying ahead. This is part 1 of a 4 part series about what is working right now halfway through 2025 in direct to consumer marketing. In this tactical check-in, Molly Pittman and John Grimshaw share five strategies that are helping businesses generate better results in 2025. Whether you're working on ads, funnels, or creative, this episode gives you practical ideas to tighten up your offers, test smarter, and set up growth for the next six to twelve months. “People want the prescription. People want to be told what to do for the scenario that they are in or the outcome that they want.” – Molly Pittman You Will Learn Why low-cost digital offers are outperforming free trials for customer acquisition How bundling products into systems increases AOV and simplifies the buying journey The evergreen category page strategy that lifted revenue by 22% How employee-generated content is helping brands connect more authentically Practical Meta creative testing tips that are working right now What AppLovin is and why it’s a promising new platform for businesses Links & Resources Smart Marketer – Smart Marketer Summer Sale – Pretty Farm Girl Skincare – RedDrop Products – BRĒZ Functional Beverages – Apply for AppLovin Beta – Omnisend – (Use coupon code “SMART” for 50% off your first 3 months) Timestamps 00:00 – Episode Intro & Mid-Year Marketing Insights 03:23 – Host Updates, Business Context & Episode Framing 07:01 – Why Marketing Trends Mirror Business Performance 09:57 – Strategy Behind Seasonal Offers and Bundling 12:22 – Using Slow Periods to Prepare for Peak Growth 15:29 – Tip #1: Digital Products with No COGs 22:47 – Tip #2: Sell a System, Not a Single Product 30:02 – Tip #3: Landing Page Strategy for Higher Conversions 32:50 – Tip #4: Use Simple Pages to Guide the Customer Journey 36:47 – Tip #5: Winning Creative Types in Paid Traffic 44:20 – Bonus: Structuring Creative Testing for Performance 47:27 – Outro: Preview of Retention & Email Marketing Episode Your Engagement Matters If you found this episode helpful, please take a second to follow, review, and share the show. It helps us reach more marketers and business owners looking for what’s working now. Review on Share and tag us on social – use #WeOutHere Feedback or questions? Email us at Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit. /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/37139210

Episode 225: How We Scaled Meta Ad Spend from $500/Day to $5K/Day 06/25/2025

Episode 225: How We Scaled Meta Ad Spend from $500/Day to $5K/Day Episode Title How We Scaled Meta Ad Spend from $500/Day to $5K/Day Episode Description What does it really take to scale ad spend 10x—and still stay profitable? In this in-depth case study, Smart Marketer’s Pep Hufen shares how our agency helped Pretty Farm Girl grow fast using Advantage Plus campaigns, conversion-focused landing pages, and sharp backend tracking. “Advertising is acceleration. We cannot fix a broken offer.” – Pep Hufen If you want the full breakdown of creative structure, data-driven testing, and campaign strategy that got this brand a 7x ROAS, this episode is for you. You Will Learn The exact ad account structure behind our 141-day scale-up Why creative isolation leads to better Meta results How backend metrics differ from Ads Manager—and why they matter more What to look for in your first 12-month customer value The key difference between high AOV and strong LTV offers Links & Resources Smart Summer Sale – AI Tools for Marketers – Omnisend – Pretty Farm Girl – Timestamps 00:02:41 – Intro to Pretty Farm Girl: Family-run brand and niche positioning 00:03:15 – Why they reached out: Growth plateau and creative needs 00:04:42 – “Advertising is acceleration” – Why offers matter most 00:05:18 – “You can’t fix a broken offer” – The foundation for scaling 00:06:05 – The real ROAS: Blended metrics and actual revenue 00:10:16 – The 141-day scaling journey: Spend breakdown and strategy 00:14:22 – Backend ROAS vs. Ads Manager: What we actually trust 00:17:22 – Structuring campaigns by product category 00:21:52 – Landing pages: What worked for Pretty Farm Girl 00:26:06 – Real testimonials and credibility boosters 00:30:47 – Crafting ad copy that resonates with intent Call to Action If you enjoyed this episode: Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts: Share the episode on social media and tag us with #WeOutHere Got questions or feedback? Email us at Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit. /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/37138725

Episode 224: The AI Ad Playbook - How to Save Time, Create Better Hooks & Scale Your Campaigns 06/18/2025

Episode 224: The AI Ad Playbook - How to Save Time, Create Better Hooks & Scale Your Campaigns Ep 224: The AI Ad Playbook — How to Save Time, Create Better Hooks & Scale Your Campaigns Episode Description How do you create compelling ad copy, research your avatar, and generate high-performing creative—without burning out or hiring a team of specialists? In this live replay from The Smart Marketer Show, Molly Pittman and Pep Hufen walk you through Smart Marketer’s complete AI workflow. You’ll learn how to use ChatGPT for deep customer research, how to write high-converting hooks in minutes, and how to train AI to write like your brand. Pep also shares how Meta’s new tools are reshaping creative testing and what that means for marketers in 2025. “AI is not replacing us. It’s a tool to accelerate things that we intuitively already know pretty well.” – Pep Hufen Whether you're AI-curious or already experimenting with automation, this episode is your tactical guide to doing more with less—without sounding robotic. What You’ll Learn How to use ChatGPT’s Deep Research function to save hours of manual work A proven prompt structure for generating customer hooks, ad copy, and strategy How to build and deploy a brand-specific voice prompt for AI content Why Meta’s AI tools work best after you write strong original copy How to build your own custom GPT based on brand data and writing samples What LLM SEO is—and how it’s already impacting eCommerce traffic and sales Links & Resources Smart Marketer – Smart Marketer Live – Smart Marketer AI Tool – The Smart Marketer Show – Instagram – , , Omnisend – (Use code SMART for 50% off your first 3 months) Timestamps 00:00:00 – Welcome & Episode Overview Molly introduces Pep and sets up what you'll learn in this AI-focused episode: real tools, tactical examples, and Smart Marketer's own workflows. 00:07:04 – The Mindset Shift: AI as a Mentor Pep shares how he uses ChatGPT as a thought partner—not a search engine—and why this shift is essential for marketers today. 00:11:17 – What You’ll Learn in This Episode A clear summary of the episode’s value: research, messaging, creative, and how to implement AI inside your workflow. 00:20:45 – Deep Research Prompt Walkthrough A full demo of Smart Marketer’s “Research Hook” prompt, showing how to use ChatGPT's Deep Research feature for customer insights and hooks. 00:29:51 – Evaluating & Refining AI-Generated Hooks Pep walks through the outputs, discusses emotional triggers, and how to ask ChatGPT for stronger, more nuanced messaging. 00:34:34 – Training ChatGPT with Your Brand Voice Step-by-step instructions to upload your writing samples, build a reusable prompt, and get ad copy that sounds like your brand. 00:41:23 – Meta AI Copy Variations: Real Results How Meta’s ad variation tools stacked up in real campaigns—and why quantity is the new creative strategy. 00:56:27 – AI Search Optimization & The Future of Commerce Final segment on how LLMs are changing discovery, why 8% of ecommerce purchases now come from AI, and how to prepare your store. Your Engagement Matters Thanks for listening to The Smart Marketer Podcast. If you got value from this episode, please help us grow: Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts Share this episode and tag us on Instagram with #WeOutHere Have feedback or questions? Email us at Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit. /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/36893220

Episode 223: Cracking the Code on AppLovin Ads - A New Traffic Channel for DTC Brands 06/11/2025

Episode 223: Cracking the Code on AppLovin Ads - A New Traffic Channel for DTC Brands Episode 223: Cracking the Code on AppLovin Ads: A New Traffic Channel for DTC Brands Episode Description If you're tired of being stuck between Meta and Google for your media buys—this episode is for you. Pep Hufen is back with a behind-the-scenes look at AppLovin Ads: the breakout ad platform that’s scaling DTC brands like Breeze and Boom. Discover why this mobile-first platform is outperforming Google for some advertisers, how it works, and why it might just be your next great opportunity for customer acquisition. Plus, Pep shares a step-by-step walkthrough of how Smart Marketer tested it with Boom Beauty and what you need to know to get started. “I’ve given you an overview of AppLovin and hopefully also I’ve shown that hey, there are actually platforms coming up that can compete with performance actually with Meta and Google.” – Pep Hufen You Will Learn What AppLovin is and how it’s unlocking new acquisition channels Why major DTC brands are shifting serious spend to this platform The two bidding strategies you need to test (CPP vs ROAS) How Boom Beauty achieved a 1.1X ROAS on a brand-new pixel What creatives work best on mobile-first ad placements Tips for optimizing end cards to boost conversions Where AppLovin fits in your broader traffic strategy Links & Resources Timestamps 00:00:21 – What Is AppLovin & Why It Matters to DTC Marketers 00:01:52 – AppLovin’s Pivot to Ecomm: A New Channel for Acquisition 00:02:30 – Case Study: Breeze Spends $1.4M—and Outpaces Google 00:03:04 – Why ROAS Is the Real Story (Not Just Clicks) 00:04:02 – AppLovin’s Ad Inventory, Reach & Algorithm Explained 00:06:12 – Why These Clicks Convert: Real Buyer Signals 00:07:05 – CPP vs. ROAS Goals: How to Structure Campaigns 00:13:56 – Boom Beauty Setup: Pre-Sell Pages, Offers & Funnel 00:17:05 – Scaling Boom: CPM, Creative Testing & Ad Types 00:22:09 – Final Optimizations: ROAS Wins & What’s Next Your Engagement Matters Thanks for tuning in. This episode was packed with data-backed strategy and firsthand testing insights. If it helped you think differently about ad platforms: Leave a 5-star review on Share with your team, mastermind, or community Tag us on social using #WeOutHere Join us live at Smart Marketer Live — meet the team, connect with marketers, and leave with a growth game plan. Questions or feedback? Email . Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit. /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/36834590

Episode 222: Build Your E-Commerce Site Right: How to Turn Browsers into Buyers 06/04/2025

Episode 222: Build Your E-Commerce Site Right: How to Turn Browsers into Buyers Episode Description Your website is more than a digital storefront—it’s the heart of your brand. In this episode, John Grimshaw, Ezra Firestone, and Kurt Elster unpack the proven strategies behind high-converting e-commerce sites. From the pitfalls of homepage design to the power of mobile-first thinking, they reveal how to turn casual visitors into loyal customers. If you want to build a brand that lasts (not just a business that sells), this is your roadmap. "Get out of your own way. Your customers don't care how pretty your site is—they care how easy it is to buy." — Kurt Elster You Will Learn: Why relying solely on marketplaces limits your growth—and how to take back control. The #1 metric that matters when building an e-commerce site. How to structure your homepage for maximum impact (hint: it's not about looking like Apple). The mobile-first mindset that can double your conversions. The quick fix that boosted conversion rates by 24%—without redesigning the whole site. Links & Resources – Use code SMART for 50% off your first 3 months. Timestamps (Chapters) 00:00:48 – Ezra’s Top Tool for Email & SMS: Omnisend 00:02:10 – Why You Must Build Your Own Website (and Not Just Sell on Marketplaces) 00:05:17 – The #1 Goal for Your Website: Capture Information 00:06:27 – The Secret to High-Converting Sites? Convenience 00:07:07 – Homepage Design: Your Site’s Table of Contents 00:11:05 – Skip the Pretty Graphics: Why Your Hero Image Might Hurt Sales 00:12:38 – The #1 Mistake in E-Commerce: Ignoring Mobile-First Design 00:14:50 – Your Menu is the Map: How to Structure Navigation for Sales 00:15:55 – How We Boosted Conversion Rates by 24% With One Simple Fix 00:17:21 – Competing with Amazon: Why Relationships Win 00:19:28 – Final Takeaways: Build for Your Audience, Not Your Ego 00:20:19 – Thanks for Listening & Next Steps CTA: We’d Love Your Support! Enjoyed this episode? Help us spread the word! ⭐ Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts 💬 Share this episode on social media—tag us and use #WeOutHere 📧 Got feedback? Email us at 👉 Subscribe to the podcast: Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit! 🚀 /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/36736890

Episode 221: The 5 AI Tools I Use Daily as a CEO (to Save 10+ Hours per Week) 05/28/2025

Episode 221: The 5 AI Tools I Use Daily as a CEO (to Save 10+ Hours per Week) Episode 221: The 5 AI Tools I Use Daily as a CEO (to Save 10+ Hours per Week) Episode Description In this episode, our very own Pep Hufen, CEO of the Smart Marketer agency, shares the five AI tools he uses every day to save over 10 hours per week and stay ahead in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Pep walks through practical, real-world use cases for each tool—no fluff, just strategies you can actually implement. Plus, for those of you who love a visual learning experience, there’s a full video version of this episode on YouTube—complete with on-screen graphics and tool demos. Check it out! “These are five ways I think are really good ways to start using AI—without having to be technical.” – Pep Hufen 🔑 You Will Learn How to implement AI in your daily workflow as a CEO or marketer The exact tools Pep uses to automate tasks and free up time Real examples of AI handling scheduling, meeting briefs, content testing, research, and more Why AI is your new productivity partner—and how to make it work for you The mindset shift: AI isn’t the future, it’s the now 🕒 Timestamps (Chapters) 00:00 – Introduction: 5 AI tools that save time 05:25 – Tool 1: AI scheduling assistant (Lindy AI) 16:07 – Tool 2: Daily meeting brief (Lindy AI) 22:00 – Tool 3: AI marketing focus group (Lindy AI) 31:46 – Tool 4: Notebook LLM for content summarization (Google) 34:55 – Tool 5: ChatGPT for tasks, research, and conversation partner 🔗 Links & Resources Watch the video version on YouTube (search “Smart Marketer Podcast” or see our channel) 🙌 Call to Action If you’re loving this episode, help us keep the value flowing: Subscribe to the Smart Marketer Podcast Leave us a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts Share this episode with your fellow marketers and entrepreneurs Follow us on social: Thanks for listening—and remember, Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit! 🚀 /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/36642710

Episode 220: Marketing That Actually Works: Ezra & John’s Real-Time Q&A for Entrepreneurs 05/21/2025

Episode 220: Marketing That Actually Works: Ezra & John’s Real-Time Q&A for Entrepreneurs Episode 220: Inside the Marketing Lab – Ezra & John Answer Your Questions Live! Episode Description Ever wish you could ask Ezra Firestone or John Grimshaw your biggest business questions—live? Now’s your chance. In this special replay from The Smart Marketer Show, Ezra and John sit down with the Smart Marketer community for a real time Q&A. From homepage split tests to pricing strategy, influencer marketing to staying motivated—this episode covers the full journey of building and growing a business. “Doubt and worry is not energy that's useful.” – Ezra Firestone Whether you're scaling a product brand, launching a course, or navigating burnout, this session is packed with both tactical gold and mindset wisdom. You Will Learn: How a homepage redesign boosted conversions by 16% Ezra’s smart framework for splitting ad spend between paid media, influencers, and ambassadors How to deal with rising tariffs without sacrificing Q4 sales Ways to market an info product without showing your face How to identify when it’s time to pivot (or quit) a business The truth about tracking data, profit margins, and “source of truth” Honest advice for staying grounded through grief or hardship Links & Resources 🌐 🎙️ ✅ Want an audit for your brand? Timestamps (Chapters) 01:02 – Live Q&A Kickoff with Ezra Firestone John introduces the session, the community vibe, and Ezra sets the tone with stories of business and babies. 04:18 – What’s the Most Profitable Split Test You’ve Run Lately? Ezra shares a homepage redesign at SafeSleeve that boosted conversions by 16%. 10:03 – Are You Moving Budget from Homepage to Landing Pages? Discussion on traffic strategy, testing sequences, and what happens when your homepage is your best landing page. 11:55 – How Many Tests Should You Run at Once? How Ezra approaches A/B testing cadence based on volume and traffic. 12:50 – How Do You Split Spend Between Conversion vs. Brand Marketing? Breakdown of paid vs. influencer vs. ambassador budgets—and benchmarks by vertical. 15:47 – What’s the Difference Between an Influencer and an Ambassador? Ezra explains how to use creators, content briefs, and what most brands get wrong. 21:19 – What Should I Do About the 30% Tariff Hike from China? Ezra shares his current supply chain decisions and whether “gray area” loopholes are worth it (they're not). 26:26 – How Should I Design Ad Creative for Info Products or SaaS? High-performing structures for intangible offers, and why entertainment + education wins. 33:17 – Why Lead Gen & Long Sales Cycles Matter for High-Ticket Products Strategies for warming cold leads with value before asking for a sale. 35:33 – How Can I Get Local Clients When I’m in a Tourist-Heavy Area? John and Ezra’s playbook: Google Business, proximity targeting, and local content hacks. 40:27 – I’ve Been in Business 4 Years and Still Struggling—What Now? When to push through vs. when to pivot. Real talk on ROI, emotional attachment, and hard truths. 45:11 – What’s Your “Source of Truth” for Data? How Ezra uses real financial KPIs over third-party attribution, and why agreement matters more than accuracy. 48:07 – How Can I Stay Authentic While Grieving? A powerful, heartfelt conversation about trauma, storytelling, and honoring what’s real. 53:51 – Should I Launch My Coaching Offer Under My Existing Brand? When to stack vs. split a business—and the importance of your exit strategy. 55:15 – What’s a Brand You’re Loving Right Now? Ezra plugs his favorite chocolate brand (Askinosie) and why little joys matter in big business. Your Engagement Matters! Thank you for tuning in to the Smart Marketer Podcast! 🎧 If you found value in this episode, here’s how to support the show: ⭐ Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts 📲 Share this episode on social and tag us using #WeOutHere 💌 Send your feedback to Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit! 🚀 /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/36549800

Episode 219 -The Email Audit Framework That Unlocks Revenue You’re Missing 05/14/2025

Episode 219 -The Email Audit Framework That Unlocks Revenue You’re Missing Episode 219 The Email Audit Framework That Unlocks Revenue You’re Missing Episode Description Email marketing still works—but only if you treat it like a growth engine, not an afterthought. In this episode, John Grimshaw breaks down the exact audit framework Smart Marketer uses inside its agency and mastermind to find revenue opportunities fast. After auditing multiple accounts, John highlights the patterns he sees again and again—and how you can fix them to make email a real profit center. “Go in and see what's being done day to day. Are you getting forward progress, forward motion?” – John Grimshaw You’ll learn the four-part framework, why list quality is more important than ever, and how to make your campaigns and flows work together—without gimmicks. You Will Learn: The 4-part email audit we use with every client Why 40–60% of your revenue should come from flows A simple fix to improve deliverability and engagement The #1 mistake brands make with offer strategy How to turn campaigns into automations that print money What to do if your email performance has flatlined Links & Resources: Want an audit like this for your brand? Timestamps (Chapters): 00:45 – John Grimshaw: Why I’m fired up about this episode 01:35 – A shortcut audit for your business (and why it matters) 02:18 – The 4 audit categories: Monetization, Promotions, List Quality, Automation 04:30 – Section 1: Why 60/40 revenue splits between flows and campaigns matter 07:55 – Automations you’re probably missing (and how to fix it) 10:10 – Add personalization beyond the name to drive deeper engagement 10:58 – Section 2: The problem with repetitive discounts & how to build better offers 13:07 – Real-life example: How Boom made 72% of promo revenue after the first email 14:00 – Section 3: List quality, deliverability, and how to incentivize clicks authentically 16:45 – What not to do (like fake games and gimmicks) 17:29 – Section 4: Most brands miss this huge automation opportunity—cross-sells 19:05 – Why your automations need regular updates & micro-tests 19:54 – The recap: Run your audit, then fix what matters 20:56 – Final thoughts: Get intentional and put your flows to work Call to Action (CTA): Thanks for tuning in to The Smart Marketer Podcast! If you found this episode helpful, here’s how to support the show: ✅ Follow and subscribe wherever you listen ⭐ Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts 📲 Share this episode with a friend or your team 📧 Got feedback? Reach us at Let’s keep growing together—Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit 🚀 /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/36460240

Episode 218: Sell Sooner, Not Sorer: The Entrepreneur’s Guide to a Smart Exit 05/07/2025

Episode 218: Sell Sooner, Not Sorer: The Entrepreneur’s Guide to a Smart Exit 🎙 Episode 218: Sell Sooner, Not Sorer: The Entrepreneur’s Guide to a Smart Exit Episode Description What’s the best time to sell your business? Hint: It’s not when you’re burned out. In this exclusive segment from Smart Marketer’s Smart Business Exit course, Ezra Firestone is joined by Brad Wayland and Chris Moore of Quiet Light to break down why successful businesses are more attractive to buyers—and how to position yours for maximum value, even if you never plan to sell. “You want to run your business like you're always going to sell it, but you're never going to sell it. You got to love it.” – Chris Moore Whether you’re planning an exit or just want to build a more scalable and sellable company, this is a must-listen episode packed with honest advice and deep experience. ✅ You Will Learn: Why selling out of boredom leads to missed opportunities (and lower multiples) The #1 pitfall that ruins business sales (and how to avoid it) How to build operational systems that make your company transferable When to let go—and how to know if you're truly ready to exit The mindset shift that helps you scale beyond burnout How great businesses become great acquisitions Why the best time to sell is before you feel done 🔗 Links & Resources: Smart Business Exit : Smart Marketer AI Tools: Quiet Light (Buy/Sell Online Businesses): Ezra Firestone – Smart Marketer: Brad Wayland – Quiet Light Advisor: ⏱ Timestamps (Key Moments Only): 00:01:21 – The #1 Mistake: Trying to Sell Without a Plan 00:02:51 – Shiny Object Syndrome: How Distraction Hurts Valuation 00:04:37 – How to Replace Yourself (and Why It Can Make the Business Grow) 00:07:36 – When Is the Right Time to Sell a Business? 00:10:21 – The “Anvil on the Chest” Test: Are You Still Fired Up or Burning Out? 00:12:38 – “Good Businesses Always Sell”: Why Market Timing Doesn’t Matter 📢 Your Engagement Matters! If you loved this episode, help us grow: ⭐ Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts → 📲 Share on social media & tag us with #WeOutHere 💬 Send feedback to Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit! 🚀 /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/36359850

Episode 217: John’s DTC Brands to Watch: Whym and the 5-Step Formula for Better Offers 04/30/2025

Episode 217: John’s DTC Brands to Watch: Whym and the 5-Step Formula for Better Offers 🎙️ Episode 217: John’s DTC Brands to Watch – Whym and the 5-Step Formula for Better Offers Episode Description ✨ “Nobody cleans their room to make it not smell bad. They clean it so they can get that sense of a good smell.” – John Grimshaw This episode is a deep dive into how Whym, a mystery travel company, revitalized an "outdated" industry by wrapping a brilliant offer around a simple service. John Grimshaw unpacks how surprise, novelty, and personalization create viral, high-converting experiences—and he shares his 5-part offer formula that you can use in any business. If you’re tired of bland messaging and weak conversions, this one’s for you. Learn how to build offers that actually move people to buy. 💡 You Will Learn: The 5 elements every great offer needs to connect and convert Why personalization + identity = performance gold in DTC How Whym makes “travel agents” cool again (and highly marketable) Why transformation matters more than features or price How to add surprise & delight to any offer—no matter your niche 🔗 Links & Resources: 🌐 📈 🎓 📲 🧠 ⏱️ Timestamps (Chapters): 00:00 – Welcome & Intro (Anthony + Molly) Anthony tees up the episode and Molly shares a must-have attribution tip for paid ads. 02:13 – John’s Segment: What Makes a Brand Worth Watching Why Whym stood out—and why studying good offers beats copying funnels. 04:28 – What Is an Offer? Why It Matters More Than Creative John defines the concept of an offer and explains why it drives growth more than ads ever could. 06:08 – Step 1: Define the Product or Service Clarify what you're actually selling and why it matters to your customer. 06:55 – Step 2: Create Relevance – The “Why Now?” Make it matter. Relevance helps your audience feel seen and ready to act. 08:22 – Step 3: Identify Your Audience Targeted messaging only works when you know who you're speaking to. 09:45 – Step 4: Give a Reason to Act Now From urgency to incentives, here's how to overcome inertia and spark conversions. 11:57 – Step 5: Sell the Transformation Forget features—focus on how your customer’s life improves after buying. 16:55 – Case Study: Whym’s Irresistible Offer Strategy A breakdown of how Whym made surprise travel feel fun, personal, and Instagram-worthy. 23:36 – Identity, Novelty & Why Whym Nails It How Whym plays into millennial identity and experience collection to win hearts (and wallets). 28:40 – Key Takeaway: Add Novelty to Win in DTC John explains why uniqueness beats polish—and how surprise drives performance. 🙌 Your Engagement Matters! If you enjoyed this episode, here’s how to support the show: 📢 Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts – 📲 Share this episode, tag , and use #WeOutHere 💌 Feedback or guest ideas? Email Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit 🚀 /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/36266340

Episode 216: Why Now Is the Best Time to Start an Ecom Business 04/23/2025

Episode 216: Why Now Is the Best Time to Start an Ecom Business 🎙 Episode 216: Why Now Is the Best Time to Start an Ecom Business Episode Description "This is the best time, I think, better than when I got into the industry over 15 years ago to get started in e-commerce." – Ezra Firestone In this special episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on an exclusive session from the Smart eCommerce course. Ezra Firestone is joined by Laura Paladino and Kurt Elster to talk about the evolution of ecommerce—and why there’s never been a better moment to dive in. From Laura’s journey working four jobs (including Cracker Barrel) to becoming Director of Retention at an 8-figure brand, to Kurt’s eBay hustle during the Furby craze, you’ll walk away inspired—and armed with strategic advice on how to grow in this booming industry. You Will Learn: Why ecommerce has the lowest barrier to entry right now How to avoid overwhelm and choose the right learning path What “Shopify nerds” have known for years (and you should too) Real stories of career transformation through ecommerce Why marketing is all about making the backend prettier for the frontend Where to find trustworthy, high-impact education (and what to avoid) Links & Resources 🎓 🧠 📈 🌐 Timestamps 02:17 – Ezra shares why this is the best time to start in ecommerce 02:24 – Meet Laura and Kurt 03:31 – Kurt on getting started with eBay 05:03 – Laura’s journey from Cracker Barrel to Boom 06:17 – What surprised Laura most about marketing 08:41 – Advice for new ecommerce learners: avoid overwhelm 09:27 – Don't be afraid to use Shopify’s powerful documentation 10:21 – Laura’s framework for learning in a noisy space 11:14 – Ezra’s advice: Follow the course and focus Your Engagement Matters! Thanks for tuning in 🙌 If this episode brought you value: 🌟 Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts 📲 Share it on social and tag us — #WeOutHere 💬 Got thoughts? Email Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit 🚀 /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/36102255

Episode 215: Winning Ad Creative: What Works Now & How to Measure It 04/16/2025

Episode 215: Winning Ad Creative: What Works Now & How to Measure It Episode 215 – Smart Marketer Show Winning Ad Creative: What Works Now & How to Measure It Episode Description What makes an ad actually perform in 2025? In this episode, John Grimshaw and Ben Bennett pull back the curtain on the creative process that drives real sales—from emotional resonance to performance metrics. You’ll learn why good creative starts with empathy, how to identify your strongest hooks, and which numbers really matter. Plus, we introduce a brand-new metric (yes, we named it), and show you how AI is changing the creative game—without replacing your team. “If your ad doesn’t have a heart, it will not perform well.” —Ben Bennett You Will Learn The 3 key metrics that reveal if your ad creative is working How to identify and fix poor-performing ads (without guessing) Why emotional hooks beat flashy tactics every time How to use AI image tools like ChatGPT to speed up creative The “thumb stop ratio” metric you should be tracking (and how) A 30-minute Action of the Month to sharpen your creative instantly Links & Resources – Hyros attribution tool Smart Marketer Free Resources – Smart Marketer Agency – Timestamps (Chapters) 02:05 – Meet Ben Bennett: Creative Director at Smart Marketer 03:15 – Top 3 Metrics That Matter for Ad Creative 07:24 – Metric 1: Unique Link Click-Through Rate 11:54 – Metric 2: Conversion Rate & Ad Scent 15:51 – Metric 3: Thumb Stop Ratio 19:00 – How to Set Up and Benchmark Your Thumb Stop Ratio 21:07 – AI for Ad Creatives: How ChatGPT-4 is Changing the Game 26:32 – Action of the Month: Add Heart to Your Hooks 27:27 – The Heart Behind Your Creative 29:30 – If Your Ad Doesn’t Have a Heart, It Won’t Perform 30:33 – The Hook and the Hand: A Smart Marketer Analogy 34:01 – Making Facebook Ads People Don’t Hate 36:24 – Hooks vs. Heart: What's Missing in Most Ads 40:57 – A Simple Exercise 42:56 – The Nine Motivators That Move People 45:12 – Building Visual Hooks Around Real Situations 45:39 – How to Think About Hooks, and How They Fit Into Existing Ads 48:08 – How to Create Really Good Problem Hooks 56:48 – Here's How to Copy This Win Call to Action Enjoyed this episode? Leave us a review, share it with a marketer who needs better ad creative, and don’t forget to subscribe for weekly insights from the Smart Marketer team. /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/36059445

Episode 214: Strategy Meets Soul: What 2024 Taught Us About Marketing, Mindset & Staying Human in 2025 04/09/2025

Episode 214: Strategy Meets Soul: What 2024 Taught Us About Marketing, Mindset & Staying Human in 2025 Episode 214: Strategy Meets Soul: What 2024 Taught Us About Marketing, Mindset & Staying Human in 2025 Episode Description 2024 was a year that tested every marketer’s resilience—and in this vulnerable, insight-packed interview, Molly Pittman sits down with Alex Cattoni from the Copy Posse to share what she learned from the trenches. From managing over $600M in ad spend to navigating the emotional highs and lows of leadership, Molly pulls back the curtain on what’s really working in 2025—and how to stay human in the age of AI. You’ll walk away with tactical strategies to boost your ad performance and a renewed sense of purpose and confidence as a marketer, creator, or entrepreneur. "You will always outperform other advertisers—even [those] that are tactically better than you in the platform because you understand the psychology, and you are not just selling a product or service in the news feed." – Molly Pittman You Will Learn Why 2024 was one of the hardest (and most transformational) years in marketing How to use AI without losing your voice, creativity, or soul The 3 biggest ad strategies working right now (based on $600M of data) The #1 mistake most people make when writing ads—and how to fix it How to sell connection, not just conversion Why being “for someone” is the key to standing out in 2025 How to reframe fear and uncertainty into opportunity and clarity Episode Sponsor – Hyros Hyros is the AI-powered ad tracking platform trusted by top marketers and agencies. It shows you exactly which campaigns are driving results—so you can scale without wasting ad spend. If you’re tired of guessing and want brutal, data-driven truth in your marketing, Hyros delivers the clarity to grow. Learn more at Links & Resources Smart Marketer – Molly Pittman – Copy Posse / Alex Cattoni – Launchpad Season 6 – Smart Marketer Free Resources – Instagram – Molly Pittman – Instagram – Smart Marketer – Instagram – Alex Cattoni – Instagram – Copy Posse – Timestamps 00:30 – Intro: What You’ll Learn and Why It Matters 02:27 – Molly's Journey: From Bartender to VP to CEO 12:15 – Why Right Now Is the Best Time to Start 16:40 – AI vs. Copywriters: What’s the Real Impact? 25:15 – What $600M in Ad Spend Says About Winning Ads 36:37 – How to Write Ads That Actually Convert 37:49 – The Biggest Mistake Marketers Make (And How to Fix It) 40:43 – The Mindset That Will Keep You Relevant in 2025 Call to Action If this episode hit home for you, do us a favor: Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts Share it with your community and tag us using #WeOutHere Got thoughts or questions? Email us at Serve the world unselfishly and profit! /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/35991485

Episode 213: What’s Working Now in Ecomm: Hook Strategy, AI Signals & Smarter Offer Design 04/02/2025

Episode 213: What’s Working Now in Ecomm: Hook Strategy, AI Signals & Smarter Offer Design This week, Molly Pittman and Brett Curry are pulling back the curtain on what’s working right now in digital marketing—and what’s not. From creative hooks and audience targeting to offer structure and AI-powered platform changes, this episode is stacked with real-world strategies to help you stay profitable and ahead of the curve. As marketing shifts and tracking becomes trickier, it’s more important than ever to get your data right. That’s why we’re proud to have Hyros supporting this episode—a platform built to give marketers crystal-clear attribution so you can stop guessing and scale with confidence. If you’re serious about understanding what’s actually driving your sales, Hyros is the tool that gives you the truth you need to win. “If you don’t know what’s working, you can’t scale. The best brands are doubling down on the right hooks and smarter systems.” – Molly Pittman You Will Learn: • How to track your top-performing creative hooks and scale with confidence • The #1 variable that drives success on Meta (after analyzing $1B+ in ad spend) • Why engagement is more powerful than conversion when testing new messages • A practical system for mapping hooks, angles, and campaign goals • How to use your creative to replace targeting as AI takes over • The “system vs. product” strategy that instantly boosts AOV and LTV • Real examples of creative that doubled revenue and unlocked new markets • Why Flewd’s bath brand is one of the smartest DTC models to study right now Episode Sponsor – Hyros Hyros is the AI-powered ad tracking platform trusted by top marketers and agencies. It shows you exactly which campaigns are driving results—so you can scale without wasting ad spend. If you’re tired of guessing and want brutal, data-driven truth in your marketing, Hyros delivers the clarity to grow. 👉 Learn more at Links & Resources: • Smart Marketer – • Molly Pittman – • Follow us on Instagram – • Smart Marketer Live Tickets – • Flewd Stress Care – • Recovery Labs – • Hyros – Timestamps: 00:36 – Pickles & Platforms: The Wild World of DTC 00:02:56 – Codifying Hooks For Scalable Growth 00:06:21 – One Message, Big Risk 00:14:48 – The Power of Engagement Over Attribution 00:31:38 – Don't Sell A Product, Sell A System 00:36:28 – Skittle Nails & The Power of Regrame Your Engagement Matters! Thank you for tuning in! If you got value from this episode, we’d be so grateful if you’d: • ⭐ Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts – • 📲 Share this episode and tag us • 💬 Got feedback? Send us a note at [email protected] Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit! 🚀 /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/35960055

Episode 212: The 2025 Marketing Shift: How to Stay Ahead in a Changing Landscape 03/26/2025

Episode 212: The 2025 Marketing Shift: How to Stay Ahead in a Changing Landscape In this exclusive live session from Smart Marketer Live, Molly Pittman and John Grimshaw dive into the biggest challenges businesses face in 2025 and, more importantly, the strategies you need to stay ahead. From rising ad costs to shifting consumer behavior and increased competition, this episode is packed with insights on how to adapt and thrive. “We’re in the middle of a major shift. The businesses that succeed in 2025 are the ones that pivot fast, embrace change, and double down on what works.” – Molly Pittman You Will Learn: • Why ad costs are rising (and what you can do about it) • How to adjust your marketing for the new “messy middle” of consumer behavior • The importance of identity-based marketing over interest targeting • How AI is disrupting eCommerce and what that means for your business • Why building a hybrid brand (content + community + commerce) is the key to long-term growth • Actionable steps you can take today to increase engagement, conversions, and brand loyalty Links & Resources: • Smart Marketer – • Molly Pittman – • Follow Us on Instagram – • Smart Marketer Live 2025 Super Early Bird Tickets – Time Stamps: • 00:00 – Introduction: The 2025 Marketing Shift • 00:00:44 – Why 2024 was a “difficult year” for marketers & entrepreneurs • 00:02:15 – Rising ad costs: The real numbers & why they matter • 00:04:09 – Attention spans are shrinking: How to stand out in a distracted world • 00:06:19 – The messy middle: Why customers now need 15-30 touchpoints before buying • 00:09:16 – Meta’s interest targeting is disappearing. What’s next? • 00:11:00 – The AI disruption: What business owners need to know • 00:15:59 – The Hybrid Brand Model: The key to success in 2025 • 00:21:30 – Building customer loyalty & brand trust in a saturated market • 00:45:57 – Expanding a Brick-and-Mortar Business with Digital Strategies • 00:47:48 – Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways Your Engagement Matters! Thank you for tuning in! Your support keeps this podcast thriving. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to: • 📢 Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts – • 📲 Share this episode on social media and tag us @smartmarketer • 💌 Have feedback? Email us at Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit! 🚀 /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/35739225

Episode 211: Scaling Faster: The Metrics That Actually Matter 03/19/2025

Episode 210: DTC Brands to Watch: Plufl Brand Study 03/12/2025

Episode 209: Scaling With Heart 03/05/2025

Episode 209: Scaling With Heart Episode Description In this powerful episode, Molly Pittman shares her inspiring journey of integrating purpose-driven work into her entrepreneurial career. Recorded live at the Four Rooms Mastermind, Molly discusses how her experience building the Fields of Freedom dog rescue has transformed her business, fueled personal growth, and reinforced the importance of structured generosity. She also reveals actionable insights on how entrepreneurs can create lasting impact while scaling their companies. “Your energy source must go beyond just business—it must come from something deeper, something that fuels you for the long game.” – Molly Pittman You Will Learn: Why integrating service-based work into your business can drive long-term success How Molly scaled her nonprofit to save over 7,500 dogs in three years The five steps to building structured, ongoing generosity in your company How generosity strengthens brand loyalty and community engagement Why balancing heart and strategy creates sustainable business models LINKS: The Smart Marketer Show - Smart Marketer – Instagram – Molly Pittman – Instagram - Fields of Freedom Dog Rescue – Instagram - TIME STAMPS: 00:00:59 – Molly’s Journey: From Digital Marketing to Nonprofit Leadership 00:02:18 – Why Purpose-Driven Work Creates Sustainable Energy in Business 00:05:12 – The Five Steps to Structured Generosity 00:07:31 – How Fields of Freedom Scaled to Save 7,500 Dogs 00:21:15 – Balancing Business, Impact, and Long-Term Vision 00:28:00 – Final Thoughts: How You Can Take Action Today YOUR ENGAGEMENT MATTERS! Thank you for tuning in! Your support keeps this podcast thriving. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to: Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts – Share this episode on social media, tag us, and use #SmartMarketerPodcast Have feedback? Email us at Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit! /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/35515060

Episode 208: More Revenue, Better Customers: The Marketing Levers That Work 02/26/2025

Episode 208: More Revenue, Better Customers: The Marketing Levers That Work Molly Pittman is back with an unfiltered look at what’s working in DTC marketing right now! In this episode, she breaks down the biggest trends shaping 2025—from revenue growth to the power of hybrid business models—and shares practical strategies you can implement today. Plus, hear how Smart Marketer is using AI, optimizing lead generation, and leveraging email warming campaigns to drive engagement. “They key to winning in 2025? Focus on what your customer needs, optimize for revenue, and stay adaptable.” – Molly Pittman You Will Learn: The must-know DTC trends and tactics shaping 2025. Why January and February set the tone for your business success. How to increase revenue and average order value in a competitive market. Why Smart Marketer is all in on hybrid business models. The power of email warming campaigns (and why you should run one ASAP!). How SweetFlex skyrocketed from 6 to 8 figures with one marketing shift. The latest game-changing update from Meta for lead generation. LINKS: The Smart Marketer Show - Smart Marketer – Instagram – Molly Pittman – Instagram - Fields of Freedom Dog Rescue – Instagram - TIME STAMPS: 00:00:54 – What’s Working Now in DTC Marketing 00:02:11 – Molly’s Journey: From Bartender to Digital Marketing and Dog Rescuing 00:08:56 – Numbers Don’t Lie: January 2024 Vs January 2025 00:19:21 – This Just In: Meta Announces Advantage Plus 00:24:40 – Action of the Month: Q1 Is the New Q5 00:42:29 – Copy This: How SweetFlex Grew From 6 to 8 Figures 00:58:18 – Introducing Fields of Freedom Dog Rescue YOUR ENGAGEMENT MATTERS! Thank you for tuning in! Your support keeps this podcast thriving. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, review, and share with fellow entrepreneurs and marketers. 📢 Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts: Click Here 📲 Share this episode on social media, tag us, and use #WeOutHere 💌 Have feedback? Email us at [email protected] Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit! 🚀 /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/35405255

Episode 207: How NutriPaw Scaled to an 8-Figure Pet Brand 02/19/2025

Episode 207: How NutriPaw Scaled to an 8-Figure Pet Brand Molly Pittman sits down with Connor Westby, an entrepreneur who successfully scaled NutriPaw a pet supplement company, into an eight-figure brand. They dive deep into the lessons learned, the challenges faced, and the strategies that helped Connor achieve massive growth. If you're looking for actionable insights on business scaling, marketing, and product expansion, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways! "You get to a place where no one truly understands your business like you do, and that’s both a blessing and a curse." – Connor Westby You Will Learn: How Connor transitioned from consulting to eCommerce The challenges of scaling a pet supplement brand Why NutriPaw pivoted its ad strategy for sustainable growth Lessons from a major business setback & how to recover How expanding into new markets unlocked revenue growth The importance of product innovation & differentiation Why keeping your business lean can help you scale faster LINKS: Smart Marketer – Molly Pittman – Mentor Table - Instagram – @smartmarketer Nutripaw – Instagram - @nutri_paw TIME STAMPS: 00:00:26 – Meet Connor: His Background & How He Started NutriPaw 00:03:31 – The Early Challenges of Scaling a Pet Supplement Brand 00:04:42 – Key Decisions That Led to NutriPaw Growth 00:08:42 – Expanding into New Markets: Lessons & Wins 00:21:54 – Surviving a Major Business Setback & The Future of NutriPaw 00:29:15 – NutriPaw's Company Structure 00:37:42 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways from Connor’s Journey YOUR ENGAGEMENT MATTERS! Thank you for tuning in! Your support helps keep this podcast thriving. If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to: Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts – Share this episode on social media, tag us, and use #SmartMarketerPodcast Have feedback? Email us at Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit! /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/35246515

Ep 206 The Road to 2025: Smart Marketer’s Lessons, Growth & What’s Next 02/12/2025

Ep 206 The Road to 2025: Smart Marketer’s Lessons, Growth & What’s Next Molly Pittman is back with an inside look at Smart Marketer’s journey and the strategies shaping 2025! After a challenging yet transformative year, Molly shares what’s been happening behind the scenes, why Smart Marketer took a break from podcasting, and the key business shifts they’ve made to build momentum in 2025. From simplifying operations to leveraging AI and focusing on community, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate the evolving digital marketing landscape. “2024 was tough, but it forced us to refine our business in the best way possible.” – Molly Pittman You Will Learn: Why Smart Marketer paused the podcast & what’s changed since. How analyzing year-over-year performance helps predict business trends. Why simplifying your business model can be the key to scaling. The impact of retiring “Train My Traffic Person” & launching Mentor Table. How AI & automation are shaping Smart Marketer’s 2025 strategy. Why building products backwards creates stronger customer connections. How to focus on community & coaching for long-term success. LINKS: Smart Marketer – Molly Pittman – Instagram – Mentor Table – TIME STAMPS: 00:00 – Introduction: The Return of Smart Marketer Podcast: Why We Took a Break & What's Changed 00:01:25 – 2024’s Challenges & What We Learned 00:09:06 – Big Business Decisions: Retiring TMTP & Launching Mentor Table 00:13:10 – How Listening to Customers Built Our Best Offer Yet 00:19:39 – Why Community & Coaching Are Smart Marketer’s Future 00:25:48 – Looking Ahead: AI, Content Strategy & Scaling in 2025 YOUR ENGAGEMENT MATTERS! Thank you for tuning in! Your support keeps this podcast thriving. If you enjoyed this episode, please follow, review, and share with fellow entrepreneurs and marketers. 📢 Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts: Click Here 📲 Share this episode on social media, tag us, and use #WeOutHere 💌 Have feedback? Email us at Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit! 🚀 /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/35161065

Ep 205 DTC Brands to Watch: Flewd Stress Care 02/05/2025

Ep 204 Achieving Balance and Longevity in Business: Insights with Ezra Firestone 01/29/2025

Ep 204 Achieving Balance and Longevity in Business: Insights with Ezra Firestone Ezra Firestone shares insights on maintaining balance and longevity in business. He explores the importance of sustainable business strategies, personal well-being, and the mindset needed to navigate entrepreneurship successfully. Through real-life experiences and reflections, Ezra highlights how consistency, self-care, and strategic decision-making contribute to long-term success. Whether you’re an established entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode provides valuable perspectives on achieving both business and personal fulfillment. “The future is shaped by those who act today. Identify your opportunities and lean into them.” – Ezra Firestone You Will Learn: • The role of consistency in long-term success. • How to avoid burnout and stay energized for the journey. • Insights on setting boundaries and achieving work-life balance. • Why routines and intentionality are critical for personal and business growth. • Strategies for maintaining mental, emotional, and physical well-being. • How to foster community and connection in an increasingly isolated world. LINKS: • Smart Marketer – • Mentor Table – TIME STAMPS: 00:00 Intro 00:01:03 Ezra's Tips 00:03:43 The Importance Of Work-Life Balance 00:09:03 Creating Space for Strategic Thinking 00:13:23 Why Mental Consumption Impacts Your Outcomes 00:14:47 The Power of Community and Connection 00:16:11 The Power of Concsciousness Shifts 00:17:25 Balancing Work, Life, and Personal Joy YOUR ENGAGEMENT MATTERS! Thank you to our listeners for your 5-star reviews and supportive messages! This podcast continues to grow thanks to YOU. If you're enjoying the show, please be sure to follow us (and leave us a review) on Apple Podcasts () We'd also love it if you reposted this episode to your social media, shared your favorite episodes with friends, and tagged us in your next post, #WeOutHere. Have feedback or questions? Email us at [email protected]. And remember, Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit. /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/34945825

Ep 203 6 Business Growth Strategies for 2025 01/22/2025

Ep. 202, Reflections From 30 Business-Free Days 07/02/2024

Ep. 201, How To Build Your Brand Identity (An Excerpt From Smart Product Creation) 06/25/2024

Ep. 201, How To Build Your Brand Identity (An Excerpt From Smart Product Creation) "Pepsi technically won the taste challenge, but Coca-Cola built the brand." Adam Von Rothfelder is back on the show today, and we're sharing another slice of our new course, Smart Product Creation. In this episode, you will hear Adam (CEO of Strong Coffee) describe how he overhauled the Brand Identity of the E-Comm brand "Gigalabs" (A nootropic supplements brand offering "Degen Enhancements"). You will also hear about Pepsi and Coke, Liquid Death and ELF cosmetics, and Boom by Cindy Joseph as he talks with Colleen Taylor (Director of Operations at Smart Marketer), Parker Hilton (Co-Founder of Gigalabs), and our very own John Grimshaw (CMO of Smart Marketer and the host of this episode). You Will Learn: Does your color scheme really matter (or is it just subjective)? Keys to creating a consistent experience for your consumer How to choose your brand elements based on your target audience What happens if you don't invest in your branding? And more! LINKS Mentioned In This Episode: Smart Product Creation *NEW* Course, Parkers Company, Adam Von Rothfelder, https://www.linkedin.com/in/vonrothfelder/ For more Episodes and Resources, John Grimshaw,https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnwgrimshaw/ Smart Marketer Courses, https://smartmarketer.com/courses/ TIME STAMPS 00:00 John sets the stage. 00:55 Let's Dive In 04:38 Capturing The Spirit Of A Brand (e.g. Gigalabs) 06:18 Having a consistent 'look' versus having a consistent color 08:42 "Pepsi just buys celebrity-ism. Coca-Cola owns it". 12:04 Parker Hilton talks about honing in on their target audience through Branding 13:00 Colleen Taylor talks about their Boom Re-Brand 14:32 "Being wishy-washy with your branding leads to increased costs because you're attracting a bunch of people who say, yeah, maybe, but no."John Grimshaw 16:13 How Liquid Death "created a new Social Lubricant". 17:52 Branding effects Acquisition costs. If you're interested in learning more about how you can create new products in your business without having to do all of the legwork yourself, check out Smart Product Creation here: YOUR ENGAGEMENT MATTERS Thank you to our listeners for the 5-Star Reviews and meaningful messages! This podcast has surpassed our expectations, and we have you to thank for that! If you're enjoying the show, please be sure to follow us (and leave us a review) on Apple Podcasts () And Follow and Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts! Please also share these episodes on social media and tag us on your next post #WeOutHere Instagram: @SmartMarketerIG, @mollypittmandigital, @johngrimmshawdigital, @pep_hufen. /episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/31850862

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