Marketing Made Simple

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Marketing Made Simple

Every week on Marketing Made Simple, you'll get practical tips to make your marketing easy and make it work!

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Our Final Episode of Marketing Made Simple—A Celebration of Gratitude and Growth

    All good stories must come to an end. After 3 incredible years of helping you create clear marketing that works, this is the final episode of the Marketing Made Simple Podcast. But instead of a somber goodbye, we’re closing this chapter with full hearts and deep gratitude — for you, our Hero Makers.   To help us close this last episode with wisdom and joy, we welcome back longtime friend, StoryBrand facilitator, and gratitude expert Christy Kern. Christy shares how the practice of gratitude can transform your life, both personally and professionally. You’ll learn how gratitude can coexist with grief, why it’s a practice (not a personality trait), and how to make it a daily habit.   J.J. and April also take time to reflect on their journey as hosts, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, favorite memories, and offering one final challenge that could change the way you approach life and business. But more than anything, this episode is a celebration of you — the Hero Maker. Thank you for every download, every review, every bit of feedback, and every moment you’ve shared with us. You made this possible. And for that, we are forever grateful!   --   Starting January 6, 2025, the former Business Made Simple Podcast feed will become home to an exciting new show: Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, hosted by Donald Miller.  It’s been an honor providing you with the tools and frameworks to help make your marketing easy and make it work, and this new podcast will continue giving incredible value with actionable insights you can immediately apply. Make sure to follow the former Business Made Simple feed so you don’t miss a single episode of Why That Worked starting January 6, 2025!   CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7   HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com   STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

    34 min
  2. 18 DEC

    5 Minute Marketing Challenge—Be the Guide Your Customers Need

    Marketing that truly connects starts with understanding your customer’s journey—and knowing how to show up as their guide. As part of our replay of last year’s 5 Minute Marketing Challenge, we’re revisiting one of the most powerful concepts in the StoryBrand framework to help you bring clarity and confidence to your messaging.       In this replay of episode #128, Dr. J.J. Peterson and co-host April Sunshine Hawkins show you how to step into the role of guide for your customers. You’ll discover practical tips for connecting with your customers' needs while positioning your expertise as the solution they can trust. Even better, you’ll learn how to keep your marketing authentic and focused, all in under 5 minutes.       This is the last replay in the series before we close out the Marketing Made Simple Podcast next week with a heartfelt and special final episode. We’re so grateful to have been part of your journey, and we can’t wait to share one more conversation to inspire and equip you for what’s next. Don’t miss it!   --   CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7   HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com   HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey   STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

    18 min
  3. 4 DEC

    5 Minute Marketing Challenge—What Do My Customers Want?

    As the holiday season ramps up, maintaining clear and impactful marketing becomes more important than ever. That’s why we’re bringing back one of our most powerful series: the 5 Minute Marketing Challenge! Originally released last year, this series is designed to help you cut through the noise with simple, actionable tips you can implement in just minutes.   In today’s replay of episode #126, Dr. J.J. Peterson and co-host April Sunshine Hawkins guide you through the first step: crafting a clear message that connects with your customers and positions you as the trusted guide they’re looking for. Using the proven strategies of the StoryBrand framework, you’ll discover how to stay focused and effective—even during the busiest time of the year.   Whether you’re hearing this for the first time or revisiting it as a refresher, this episode lays the foundation for creating impactful marketing that drives real results.   --   Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!   CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7   HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com   HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey   STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

    19 min
  4. 27 NOV

    Talkin’ Shop—How Clear Messaging Unlocks Growth for Complex Tech Brands

    Tech companies often struggle with the same challenge—making their complex solutions simple to understand. When customers can’t grasp how a product solves their problem, even the most innovative ideas can fall flat. How do you balance clarity and sophistication to attract buyers without sacrificing the technical depth that sets you apart?   In this episode of Talkin’ Shop, J.J. and April sit down with StoryBrand Certified Guide Kelly Sjol to discuss how she helps tech companies clarify their messaging to stand out in a crowded market. Drawing from her expertise in SaaS, Kelly shares how the StoryBrand framework transforms tech founders' messaging into clear, compelling stories that engage both buyers and users. Whether you’re a founder of a SaaS company or just tackling a complex product, tune in to learn how clear communication can be your biggest growth driver.   Contact StoryBrand Certified Guide Kelly Sjol directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/Kelly-Sjol.   --   Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!   CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7   HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com   HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey   STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

    36 min
  5. 20 NOV

    Talkin’ Shop—The Counterintuitive Way to Thrive in Crowded Industries

    In competitive industries, it’s all too easy for great businesses to fade into the background. When everyone is saying the same thing, customers have a hard time sussing out who can actually help them. That's why the real challenge isn’t just being good at what you do—it’s making sure people know you’re the best choice for solving their specific problem. Are you clearly showcasing what sets you apart? If not, your customers might never find you.   In the next episode of our Talkin’ Shop series, J.J. and April sit down with Sarah Cook, a former naturopathic clinician turned StoryBrand Certified Guide. She shares practical strategies for standing out in a crowded market—especially in competitive industries like health and wellness. Learn why niching down to a specific problem is the key to differentiation, and how to shift your messaging to highlight the unique way you solve your customer's pain points. Tune in for actionable tips on positioning yourself effectively, so you can raise your flag and attract the right audience!   Contact StoryBrand Certified Guide Sarah Cook directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/WellnessWriter.   --   Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!   CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7   HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com   HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey   STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

    34 min
  6. 13 NOV

    Talkin’ Shop—Why Your Nonprofit's Message Isn’t Connecting (And How to Fix It)

    Nonprofit leaders work hard and care deeply, but sometimes their message isn’t clear enough to get people excited and involved. The stories are powerful, and the mission is strong, but the message can get lost. It’s a frustrating reality for nearly every marketer involved in the nonprofit sector. So how do you communicate your vision in a way that gets your donors, volunteers, and supporters to rally behind you and make a real impact?    In the newest episode of our Talkin’ Shop series, J.J. Peterson and April Sunshine Hawkins bring in StoryBrand Certified Guides Natasha Paradeshi and Christian Hinojosa, of Solace Media, to break down how to transform nonprofit messaging. You’ll learn how to create multiple brand scripts that speak directly to your different audiences—whether it’s your board, your volunteers, or your donors—so they feel seen, valued, and inspired to act. Plus, discover the power of ethical storytelling and why tapping into hope, vision, and strategic clarity is the game changer your nonprofit needs. Even if you’re running a for-profit business, these insights will challenge you to rethink how you engage your audience. Tune in and learn how clear messaging can turn your mission into a movement that changes lives.   Contact StoryBrand Certified Guides Natasha Paradeshi and Christian Hinojosa directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/Solace or Solace.Media.   --   Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!   CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7   HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com   HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey   STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

    45 min
  7. 6 NOV

    Talkin' Shop—The Power of Being Your Authentic Self in Coaching (And Why Buzzwords Just Get in the Way)

    The coaching world is booming, but with thousands of new coaches and consultants entering the industry, it’s becoming a more crowded space. If you're looking to make an impact, the question quickly becomes: How do I get noticed? Many coaches get caught in a cycle of trying to copy what others are doing, hoping it will work for them, but it usually backfires. So how do you find your authentic voice and connect with clients who truly need you?   In this week’s episode of our Talkin’ Shop series, J.J and April sit down with StoryBrand Certified Guide Eric Williams to discuss how coaches can clarify their message to stand out in a growing profession. Eric shares his top strategies for attracting the right clients by leaning into your unique style and avoiding the “business buzzword box.” You’ll learn how to use storytelling, personality, and specificity to connect with clients in a way that feels fully aligned. Tune in to get practical steps to building a coaching brand that’s authentically you!   Contact StoryBrand Certified Guide Eric Williams directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/EricWilliams.   --   Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!   CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7   HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com   HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey   STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

    33 min

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Every week on Marketing Made Simple, you'll get practical tips to make your marketing easy and make it work!

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