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.'
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
Episode 211: Scaling Faster: The Metrics That Actually Matter
03/19/2025
Episode 211: Scaling Faster: The Metrics That Actually Matter
Are you still tracking Customer Lifetime Value (LTV)? If so, it’s time for an upgrade. In this episode, Molly Pittman and John Grimshaw dive into Customer Value Velocity (CVV)—a smarter, more actionable metric that helps businesses scale faster and make better marketing decisions. Learn how top brands are using CVV to increase revenue, improve monetization, and acquire the right customers. “If you’re only tracking LTV, you’re missing the full picture of how revenue is really flowing in your business.” – John Grimshaw You Will Learn: Why LTV is outdated and what to track instead. How Customer Value Velocity helps you scale revenue smarter. The key difference between acquisition and monetization (and why they must work together). Why tracking speed of revenue matters just as much as total revenue. The most important monetization strategies to increase repeat sales. How top brands like Starbucks optimize customer value for faster ROI. Links & Resources: The Smart Marketer Show – Smart Marketer – Instagram – Molly Pittman – Instagram – John Grimshaw – Timestamps: 00:00:00 – Introduction: Why LTV is Outdated & What to Track Instead 00:00:45 – Meet John Grimshaw: Monetization & Acquisition Expert, CMO of Smart Marketer 00:02:07 – The flaw in traditional LTV tracking 00:03:47 – Numbers Don't Lie 00:24:01 – This Just In 00:30:20 – Action Of The Month 00:49:47 – Copy This Win 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: 📲 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/35746350
info_outline
Episode 210: DTC Brands to Watch: Plufl Brand Study
03/12/2025
Episode 210: DTC Brands to Watch: Plufl Brand Study
Molly Pittman is back with another DTC Brands to Watch episode, and this time she’s diving into Plufl, the brand that turned a simple concept—dog beds—into a viral human comfort product. Discover how their innovative marketing, branding, and product expansion have made them a leader in the space. “Plufl took a familiar product and reimagined it. This is a case study in creative branding and audience expansion.” – Molly Pittman You Will Learn: • How Plufl transformed a commodity into a viral DTC product. • The power of niche marketing and expanding to multiple customer avatars. • Why their paid ad strategy on Meta & TikTok is so effective. • The genius behind Plufl’s high-converting landing pages. • How they use promotions, upsells, and email marketing to maximize revenue. • The strategy behind their price increase promotion and how you can use it too. LINKS: The Smart Marketer Show - Smart Marketer – Instagram – Molly Pittman – Instagram - Fields of Freedom Dog Rescue – Instagram - Plufl - Instagram - TIME STAMPS: 00:00:00 – Introduction: Brands to Watch – Plufl 00:13:29 – Marketing Strategy: From Ads to Checkout 00:15:21 – Product Expansion & The Hug Pillow 00:16:43 – The Power of Landing Pages & Personalization 00:23:07 - Turning Tariffs into Sales: The Power of Price Increase Promotions 00:28:42 – Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways 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: 📲 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/35633320
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
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
info_outline
Ep 205 DTC Brands to Watch: Flewd Stress Care
02/05/2025
Ep 205 DTC Brands to Watch: Flewd Stress Care
Molly Pittman is kicking off the Brands to Watch series with Flewd Stress Care, a company transforming the bath salts industry with innovative, stress-reducing solutions. Learn how their unique product positioning, strong branding, and smart marketing tactics have made them a standout in the DTC space. “They’ve taken a familiar product and made it better. This is a masterclass in branding and marketing.” – Molly Pittman You Will Learn: • How Flewd Stress Care transformed a commodity product into a must-have wellness essential. • The power of problem-solving product positioning and messaging. • Why their Us vs. Them marketing strategy is so effective. • How they use UGC and testimonials to drive conversions. • The secret behind their subscription model success. • What makes their promotions and bundles so compelling. LINKS: • Flewd Stress Care – • Molly Pittman – • Smart Marketer – TIME STAMPS: 00:00 – Introduction: Brands to Watch: Flewd Stress Care 00:00:44 – How Molly Discovered Flewd Stress Care 00:01:39 – Why Flewd ’s Product Innovation Stands Out 00:05:00 – The Power of Problem-Solving Products 00:08:09 – Marketing Strategy: From Ads to Checkout 00:12:06 – Subscription Model & Customer Retention 00:18:27 – Winning with Strategic Promotions 00:22:06 – Why Their Facebook Ads Are So Effective 00:24:59 – Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways 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: 📲 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/35066480
info_outline
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
info_outline
Ep 203 6 Business Growth Strategies for 2025
01/22/2025
Ep 203 6 Business Growth Strategies for 2025
Molly Pittman is back with six actionable strategies to take your business to new heights in 2025. Whether you’re navigating the ever-changing digital landscape or looking for fresh insights to scale your business, Molly’s got you covered. “Pick 2 or 3 strategies that resonate with you and go all in. These could be game changers for your business in 2025.” – Molly Pittman You Will Learn: • How changes at Meta are reviving organic growth opportunities. • The secret behind self-liquidating offers to scale customer acquisition. • Strategies for increasing customer lifetime value. • Why TikTok Shop is the next big thing in e-commerce. • How to leverage AI agents to streamline your marketing. • The importance of building community and connection. LINKS: • Molly Pittman – • Smart Marketer – • Smart Paid Traffic Course – • Smart Social Marketing Course – • Mentor Table – TIME STAMPS: 00:00 Intro/We are Back! 00:02:35 Introduction to the 6 Key Opportunities for 2025 00:03:22 #1 Organic Growth is Back! 00:10:03 #2 Have A Self Liquidating Offer 00:15:29 #3 Increase Life Time Value 00:17:51 #4 Live Shopping 00:23:00 #5 Leverage AI To Make Your Tasks Easier 00:25:05 #6 Building Connection and Community 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/34942335
info_outline
Ep. 202, Reflections From 30 Business-Free Days
07/02/2024
Ep. 202, Reflections From 30 Business-Free Days
Molly Pittman is back from her wedding/sabbatical/vacation, and she's on the show today to share her fresh take on life and business. Listen for five key takeaways that might just provide you with a shortcut to realizing your own dreams. "I had never had this reflection time to look back at my life and say, what do I like about this? What do I want to change? What is the reality of how I am living?" Molly Pittman You Will Learn How to get off the Hamster Wheel (without a trip to Italy) Tips for Being More Present A Prescription for People-Pleasers Your first step to taking four weeks off! And More! LINKS Molly Pittman, Smart Marketer, https://smartmarketer.com/ Kentucky Saving Them Together, Smart Marketer Live, TIME STAMPS 00:00 "Maybe there is one thing you could do that cuts out 50 percent of your workload, but you can't see that because you're moving so quickly and don't have that clarity of mind." Molly Pittman 00:28 She's BACK (Where did she go?) 03:55 "Molly, That's Not A Sabbatical" 06:16 Work To Live, Not Live To Work 08:51 Slow Is Fast 10:33 Presence Is Key 12:47 Boundaries Are Mandatory 15:09 Being ProActive versus ReActive 17:45 Recap - Five Takeaways 19:51 Give yourself permission to take time off. YOUR ENGAGEMENT MATTERS! Thank you to our listeners for the 5-star Reviews and meaningful messages! This Podcast has exceeded our expectations, and we have YOU to thank for that. It makes a difference when you follow us (and leave a review) on Apple Podcasts () or subscribe wherever you listen to 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 questions? Please send us an email at [email protected], and don't forget to Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit.
/episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/31936307
info_outline
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
info_outline
Ep. 200, *Special Episode* 5 Powerful Lessons From 200 Episodes
06/18/2024
Ep. 200, *Special Episode* 5 Powerful Lessons From 200 Episodes
Although many of our episodes are urgent "do this now" type content to keep you on the front edge of this Marketing life, we also have episodes packed with timeless and true, evergreen content. To celebrate 200 episodes, we picked five such clips that you may have missed that we believe you will love to hear (and need to hear). You Will Hear, Ezra Firestone on How To Stop Overworking Molly Pittman and Kurt Elster on What Marketers Get Wrong With Storytelling John Grimshaw sharing one of his 8 Immutable Laws for Email Marketing Pepijn Hufen on where he would begin if he were starting over Gabby Bernstein and Molly Pittman on Overcoming Imposter Syndrome FULL EPISODE LINKS Clip 1: Episode 148 Clip 2: Episode 132, https://smartmarketer.com/is-it-the-market-or-is-it-your-marketing-with-kurt-elster-and-molly-pittman/ Clip 3: Episode 143, Clip 4: Episode 166, Clip 5: Episode 120, TIME STAMPS "If you're an entrepreneur, your career is a relationship. Your business is your relationship. It's a very intimate relationship. That relationship is revealing to you the unresolved parts of your shadow side that need to be". Gabby Bernstein 01:16 Thank you for your support. Here's what's coming up. 04:12 Ezra Firestone: How To Stop Overworking 07:26 Molly Pittman and Kurt Elster on Storytelling: Have you Learned the Basics yet? 13:10 John Grimshaw on How to Make Your Emails Stand Out in the Inbox. 20:24 Pepijn Hufen on A Strategy For Your First $1k As An Entrepreneur 27:21 Gabby Bernstein and Molly Pittman on How Personal Growth Allows You To Succeed 33:04 A Gentle Nudge From John Grimshaw 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/31776337
info_outline
Ep. 199, Three Proven Offers You Can Use To Launch Your New Product
06/11/2024
Ep. 199, Three Proven Offers You Can Use To Launch Your New Product
You wouldn't believe how many Marketers and Entrepreneurs don't understand the subject of Offers. Fortunately, John Grimshaw is passionate about this, and he's on the show today to share three proven offer formulas that you can consider using for your next product launch. John and his team at Smart Marketer have seen these Offers work for themselves, their clients, and for businesses of all shapes and sizes. As he unpacks each formula with examples, you will start to recognize these strategies in use all around you, and you will be able to implement them for your next product launch. You Will Learn: The Greatest Enemy To Selling Your Product When to use the Buzz-Builder Launch When the Pre-Order (Or Beta) Launch works best The Key to Achieving Growth and Scale And more! LINKS Mentioned In This Episode: Smart Product Creation, https://smartmarketer.com/smart-product-creation/ For more Episodes and Resources, John Grimshaw,https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnwgrimshaw/ TIME STAMPS 01:20 Why This Topic Gets Overlooked and Skimmed Over 02:32 The Basics of John's 5-Step Offer Formula 07:28 Proven Offer #1:The Buzz Builder Launch 12:37 Proven Offer #2: The Pre-Order (Or Beta) Launch "Pre-orders (in general) work well when they leverage highly engaged existing audiences who have a lifestyle or hobbyist connection to whatever you're selling." John Grimshaw 19:53 Proven Offer #3: The Seasonal Event Launch 22:18 "This Is Where the Marketing Comes In" 24:34 In Summary 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/31687167
info_outline
Ep. 198, Mastering Cost Per Acquisition: Strategies for Boot-Strapped Businesses
06/04/2024
Ep. 198, Mastering Cost Per Acquisition: Strategies for Boot-Strapped Businesses
Does your business need to be profitable every month? Pepijn Hufen (CEO of the Smart Marketer Agency) is back with a topic that's crucial for any business owner: Cost Per Acquisition (CPA). As an entrepreneur or marketer, you're sure to be familiar with the term, but today, Pep shares the approach he and his team use with their clients at the Smart Marketer Agency. Plus, he introduces an alternative metric that he prefers using for business growth and scaling. You will learn, Why you can't look at CPA in isolation (context is crucial) How to set the right goals for your unique business How powerful a Blended ROAS Goal is for profitability How Customer Value over the first year informs your decisions about CPA LINKS Pepijn Hufen, on Twitter, and Instagram, The Smart Marketer Agency, For more Episodes and Resources, 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/Or 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. TIME STAMPS "Understanding how much you can spend to acquire a customer (and how to approach this) is different for every business, but it's incredibly important. You need new customers; they're the lifeblood of your business, but every month, your business needs to be profitable". Pepijn Hufen 01:24 Let's Dive In 05:28 Set your Blended ROAS goal. 07:21 If You're More Advanced In Your Business Journey 08:01 Balancing new customer acquisition with existing customer monetization 10:37 Increase your average order value 14:09 In Summary "In my opinion, new customer ROAS should always be in the conversation because it's just a more useful metric than just CPA." Pepijn Hufen
/episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/31590302
info_outline
Ep. 197, You Can Bring A Product To Life (In As Little As 8 Weeks)
05/28/2024
Ep. 197, You Can Bring A Product To Life (In As Little As 8 Weeks)
If you want to break into selling physical products or you just need to figure out how to increase profitability, this episode is worth a listen. Today, we are sharing a slice of a brand new course we're launching, Smart Product Creation, and we think you will be inspired and encouraged. "If you've launched less than four new products in the last 12 months, you may want to consider this because one of the best ways to increase profitability, grow your business, and support your core audience is to launch additional products that solve more problems in the category. We've found this is the most important part of the puzzle (once you get traffic dialed in)". John Grimshaw Who are you listening to? Meet Adam Von Rothfelder (CEO of Strong Coffee), 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 host of this episode). You Will Learn: What to do when your core product stops driving profitability How quickly can you actually bring a product to life? Why are new products essential to business growth? Why you can't just launch a random product 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 03:27 Let's Dive In (How Adam Helped Parker Bring This New Product To Life) 05:43 Why Design Matters 08:49 Crunch Time 12:04 "Know the People. Know The Audience. Know the problem you want to solve for them". John Grimshaw 12:25 How To Grab People's Attention (Bring The Energy) 18:09 A Repeatable Process (That anyone can do) 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/31484742
info_outline
Ep. 196, Why You Should Watch This Brand (And Stalk Their Ads)
05/21/2024
Ep. 196, Why You Should Watch This Brand (And Stalk Their Ads)
John Grimshaw (CMO of Smart Marketer) does something a little different on the show today. He's been following a brand you may have heard of and watching them eat up an increasing market share. He doesn't have the back-end information, but he does have some valuable insights about what they're doing with their Ads. Listen to this “AdSumer Report” Episode for three distinct strategies that you can use in your business. You Will Learn: Two clues that certain Ads are performing really well for a brand A recipe for a really great hook The Real Reason Coterie Ads are so effective And more! LINKS Mentioned In This Episode: Smart Marketer Live (Get your Early Bird Tickets here, ) Coterie Diapers, For more Episodes and Resources, John Grimshaw,https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnwgrimshaw/ Smart Marketer Courses, https://smartmarketer.com/courses/ TIME STAMPS 00:00 "They have a different strategy that I think is super unique and powerful that I would recommend everyone think about how to implement for themselves." John Grimshaw 03:29 Early Bird Tickets For Smart Marketer Live 06:19 What's so good about what Coterie is doing with their Ads? 08:08 Let's look at these three types of Ads 11:01 A Really Powerful Hook 17:37 The Third Thing They Do Very Well 19:59 How Do You Use This In Your Business? 21:52 It's not just awesome Ads: It's the Business Model 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/31388592
info_outline
Ep. 195, Demystifying AI: Two Practical Use Cases You Should Consider Right Now
05/07/2024
Ep. 195, Demystifying AI: Two Practical Use Cases You Should Consider Right Now
Whether you're excited about AI, nervous about it, or all-out against it, the truth is it's here to stay (and will continue to shape the business landscape). It's a fast-moving train, and we want to help you get on board. In this episode, Pepijn Hufen (CEO of the Smart Marketer Agency) breaks down six areas in which you can incorporate AI into your business right now, as well as two specific use cases for Chat GPT that could streamline your tasks and revolutionize the way you work. He also provides specific Prompts and steps that will free you up to do higher-value tasks and "human work." You Will Learn: 6 Areas In Which AI Can Already Help You In Your Business Why you need to start using Chat GPT and AI in both your personal and work life The Four Essential elements of a great Chat GPT prompt Plus, scroll down for the notes that accompany this episode. LINKS Pepijn Hufen, on and TIME STAMPS “Whatever our feelings are about AI, it won't stop the adoption and the development of it”. Pepijn Hufen 02:04 Actual Use-Cases for AI For Business Owners And Marketers 03:03 In case You're New To Chat GPT 05:20 Six Things AI Can Already Do For Your Business 07:40 Let's Talk About Chat GPT and Ad Copy 14:11 How Can Chat GPT Help with Market Research and Avatar Development? 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/Or 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/31151078
info_outline
Ep. 194, "Lean Into What You Do Best, And Shed The Rest"
04/30/2024
Ep. 194, "Lean Into What You Do Best, And Shed The Rest"
Delegation and Systemization may be one of the least sexy topics in business and marketing, but by the end of THIS conversation, you'll be inspired and motivated to get better at this critical discipline so that your business can truly scale. This episode is for you if you want to be less reactive in your business and more proactive in your business. Plus, listen as Molly Pittman and Trainual CMO, Jonathan Ronzio discuss Creativity and Ideation. You'll learn What is more important than your work resume (in crafting your career path) What can not (or should not) be delegated? How do you discern what to delegate and what to keep doing How to make memorable Ads that distinguish you from the competition And more! "Even if you don't feel like you are at a place where you need to start the systemization process, now is the time, guys. Don't wait until you are at the point of frustration". Molly Pittman YOUR ENGAGEMENT MATTERS Thank you to our listeners for the 5-Star Reviews and meaningful messages! This Podcast has exceeded what we expected, and we have YOU to thank for that. It makes a difference when you follow us (and leave a review) on Apple Podcasts () or subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. We'd also love it if you repost this episode to your social media, share your favorite episodes with friends, and tag us in your next post, #WeOutHere. Have questions? Please send us an email at [email protected], and don't forget to… Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit LINKS Molly Pittman, Smart Marketer, https://smartmarketer.com/ Check out Trainual, Jonathan Ronzio is on all the socials as @JonathanRonzio TIME STAMPS 02:20 Jonathan Shares His Back Story 06:03 How Did Jonathan Learn How To Delegate? 08:39 "I care more about your life resume than your work resume." Jonathan Ronzio 14:46 When is it time to document and delegate? 22:50 "Documentation is the legacy and the history of how your business works." Jonathan Ronzio 29:34 Show Up and Be Different 31:14 Develop A Love For Great Advertising (And Look Beyond Your Industry) YOUR ENGAGEMENT MATTERS! Thank you to our listeners for the 5-Star Reviews and meaningful messages! This Podcast has exceeded what we expected, and we have YOU to thank for that. It makes a difference when you follow us (and leave a review) on Apple Podcasts () or subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts. We'd also love it if you repost this episode to your social media, share your favorite episodes with friends, and tag us in your next post, #WeOutHere. Have questions? Please send us an email at [email protected], and don't forget to… Serve the World Unselfishly and Profit.
/episode/index/show/smartmarketer/id/31040918