Episode #8: Why Marketing Isn't Linear

In this episode of forank marketing, we unpack a hard truth: marketing isn’t linear. Zoe Ashbridge and Leigh Buttrey are joined by Chris Nightingale, Performance Marketing Specialist at Can-Do Marketing, to explore why leads don’t follow a perfect funnel, why attribution isn’t as simple as it looks in reports, and why expecting instant ROI from a single campaign is a fast track to disappointment. We break down how real marketing works—layered, messy, and full of touchpoints that rarely follow a straight line. Whether you're running ads, building organic content, or nurturing leads through email, understanding this non-linear journey will help you make smarter, more sustainable marketing decisions. Ideal for: marketers, founders, and in-house teams juggling long sales cycles and complex customer journeys. Topics covered:Why most buyers don’t convert after one touchThe role of dark social and unseen influenceHow to communicate the value of long-term marketingRethinking attribution and reportingIf you've ever struggled to explain why your marketing efforts are working even when the data doesn’t show it clearly, this episode is for you. 📍Find us here:Website: ⁠⁠www.forank.com⁠YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@forank-marketing⁠Zoe's LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoeashbridge/⁠⁠⁠Leigh's LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighbuttrey/⁠⁠ ⁠Chris’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisnightingale/ 🎙 Enjoying this episode? Show some love: like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes! Interested in sponsoring an episode? Get in touch at ⁠⁠[email protected]