302: Marketing With Meaning for Gen X Women Solopreneurs | Leslie Smith

When does values-based marketing stop feeling meaningful and start feeling performative? In episode 302 of Gratitude Geek, Kandas Rodarte talks with marketing and public relations veteran Leslie Smith about how solopreneurs can market with meaning without slipping into optics-driven or shallow campaigns. They explore why alignment matters more than visibility, how storytelling builds trust, and what small business owners can realistically do to support causes they care about. This episode is especially relevant for Gen X women solopreneurs who want their marketing to reflect their values, strengthen relationships, and support sustainable business growth in 2026 and beyond. Topics covered include:– What makes values-based marketing feel authentic versus fake– Why awareness alone isn’t enough– How alignment builds long-term trust– Practical ways solopreneurs can participate in meaningful marketing– Why press releases and blogging still matter 🔗 Show notes and resources:https://kandasrodarte.com/302 Chapters: 00:00 When values-based marketing feels off03:22 What values-based marketing actually means04:43 Authenticity versus performative marketing09:21 Audience alignment and shared values10:52 Why storytelling builds trust13:25 Community impact and collaboration15:54 Built-in opportunities for meaningful marketing19:35 Practical strategies for solopreneurs24:54 Press releases and blogging still matter35:01 Closing gratitude and final thoughts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices