Big Bad Marketing Podcast

You started your business because you’re good at something.But now? You’re expected to know marketing, sales, pricing, systems…basically how to run an entire company.And when something doesn’t work, it’s easy to assume you’re the problem.But friend, let us tell you, you're not. You just don’t know what you don’t know yet.In this episode, we break down:Why most people start businesses “backwards”The awareness stages every entrepreneur goes throughWhy feeling clunky, confused, or overwhelmed is actually a good signHow to stop beating yourself up and start moving forwardA simple way to make progress even when you don’t have all the answersIf you’ve ever thought, “I should know this by now,” this episode is for you.Stuff we talked about:Overwhelmed with Marketing Your Biz? Stop and Do Thishttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overwhelmed-with-marketing-your-biz-stop-and-do-this/id1793837831?i=1000759774975How to Design Your Life: A Full Step-by-Step ProcessHow we invoice clients:

“I should be posting more.”“I should be following up.”“I should be doing more to grow my business.”But when it actually comes time to do the work? You don’t feel like it. You lose momentum. You just can't find the motivation. And eventually, it all falls off.In this episode, we’re breaking down intrinsic vs extrinsic motivation, including what they mean, how to figure out which one you lean toward, and how to use that to finally stay consistent in your business.You don’t need more motivation. You need a system that works with how you’re wired.In this episode, we'll cover:Why “waiting to feel motivated” is killing your consistencyThe difference between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation (and how to spot yours)Why most entrepreneurs are a mix of both, and what that means for your workflowHow to build structure that actually helps you follow throughPractical ways to stay consistent with your marketing without burning outIf you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything “right” but still can’t stay consistent, this episode will help you fix that.Things we talked about:https://www.melrobbins.com/episode/episode-3/https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

Running a business can feel overwhelming.You’re juggling client work, marketing, admin tasks, personal life, and the endless list of things you should be doing but haven’t gotten to yet.But here’s the realization we’ve had as small business owners:Almost everything in life is just project management.Launching an offer.Posting content consistently.Onboarding a client.Planning a wedding.Even organizing your house.Once you start thinking about your life and business through that lens, things get much easier to manage.In this episode of the Big Bad Marketing Podcast, we break down 7 simple project management habits that help small business owners move from overwhelmed and scattered to organized and making real progress.You’ll learn how to:• Define what “done” actually looks like• Break big ideas into manageable steps• Stop keeping everything in your head• Limit how many projects you work on at once• Schedule time to actually make progress• Finish what you start• Celebrate small wins so you keep momentumAnd at the end, we’ll show you how to reset your entire project management system in about 15 minutes.Big Bad Marketing NewsletterGet marketing tips, strategies, and resources for small business owners delivered once a month.https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletterOverwhelmed with marketing your business? Stop and do this.https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/overwhelmed-with-marketing-your-biz-stop-and-do-this/id1793837831?i=1000759774975How to design your life (Mel Robbins Podcast with Debbie Millman)https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-design-your-life-a-full-step-by-step-process/id1646101002?i=1000725165521Resource: Eisenhower Matrix explainedhttps://www.instagram.com/p/DMiHx6cx_at/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==The first things to outsource as your business growsComing soon!

You started the business. You filed the LLC. You’re officially legit.And once you come down from that high, reality hits…now what? What's next?Suddenly, there are a hundred things you could be doing. Building a website. Designing a logo. Picking software. Posting on social media. And it’s incredibly easy to spend months “setting up” your business without actually making any money.In this episode, we break down what small business owners should actually focus on right after creating an LLC. We walk through the few backend systems you need to set up immediately, what marketing basics are worth doing early on, and how to avoid getting stuck perfecting things that don’t move your business forward.If you’ve recently started a business, or you’re about to, this episode helps you cut through the noise and focus on the steps that lead to real revenue.We talk about:• The 3 practical things every new business should set up immediately• Why spending months on branding and websites can slow your business down• The simplest way to start invoicing and getting paid• What to prioritize in your first 30 days as a new business owner• The difference between “building a business” and actually starting oneOther resources we mention in this episode:How we invoice clients without fancy software (and when to get it):https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/blog/how-we-invoice-clients-without-fancy-software-and-when-to-get-itHow to build a basic website:https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/blog/how-to-build-a-basic-websiteHow to perfect your elevator pitch:https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/blog/heres-how-to-perfect-your-elevator-pitchHoneyBook (30% off subscription):https://share.honeybook.com/brooke2397546(Heads up: we may earn a commission if you buy through this link, at no extra cost to you! But here’s the deal: we don’t promote anything we don't use ourselves. Every brand we back has earned its spot in our lineup.)👉 Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletter athttps://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

If your business is growing but you feel like you’re working more than ever… there’s a good chance you’re still doing everything yourself.Client work. Emails. Scheduling. Content. Admin. Tech problems. Random little tasks that seem harmless on their own but pile up fast.And here’s a big bad truthbomb for you: you can’t scale a business if you’re responsible for every single task.At some point, your time becomes the bottleneck.In this episode, we break down the first tasks you should automate, delegate, or outsource as your business grows so you can free up time without sacrificing quality or efficiency.We talk about what you should never delegate as a small business owner, the first three tasks almost every business should offload, and the surprising next two things to hand off as your company grows.If you want your business to grow beyond the number of hours you personally have in a day, this episode is for you.In this episode, we talk about:• Why doing everything yourself eventually stalls your business growth• What small business owners should keep vs delegate• The first 3 tasks almost every business should automate or outsource• Why scheduling automation is one of the fastest productivity wins• How to offload repetitive admin work without losing control• The right way to outsource content without losing your voice• Two surprising tasks you should delegate as your business grows• How to know when it’s financially smart to start outsourcingOther stuff we mention in this episode:How to be the face of your brand:https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/blog/how-to-be-the-face-of-your-brand👉 Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletterhttps://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

We're taking you out of an overwhelmed state by helping you figure out the next three things that actually matter in your business. And wer'e doing it all in less than 30 minutes!We cover:How to do a brain dump that actually clears mental clutterWhy stepping away from your list can help you think more clearlyHow to categorize and prioritize without spiralingWhy your to-do list should never have 27 “top priorities”How to identify the smallest next step for each taskWhy doing less might actually be the best answerHow systems, automation, and outsourcing can help you get your time back👉 Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

You got the lead. Someone called, DM'd, emailed, or filled out your website form. Your marketing worked! YAY YOU!!Then, y'all have a great conversation and then...crickets.In this episode, we’re talking about one of the easiest ways to make more sales without creating more content, running more ads, or redoing your website. And it's as easy as following up. We break down why so many small business owners avoid it, how to do it without feeling pushy or cringey, and the super simple system you can use to make sure leads don’t disappear into the void.We cover:Why following up matters more than most people thinkWhat prospects usually mean when they go quietHow to follow up without sounding salesyWhy a “no” is still useful feedbackA simple spreadsheet system to track follow-upsWhat to do this week if you’ve let leads slip through the cracks👉 Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

If your marketing feels scattered, it might be because you’re trying to show up everywhere at once.You might be on Instagram, sending emails, attending multiple in-person networking events every month, optimizing your website for Google (SEO), running paid ads, asking for referrals, recording podcasts, and now you're stretched so thin across so many platforms that marketing feels like a full-time job on top of actually running your business!In this episode, we’re breaking down inbound vs. outbound marketing and why you don't need to be on 5 or more channels to grow. You need one place where people can discover you and one way you actively reach out to them.We cover:What a marketing channel actually isThe difference between inbound and outbound marketingWhy trying to do too many channels creates overwhelmHow one inbound and one outbound channel can work togetherThe 3 questions to ask before choosing your channelsWhy consistency matters more than doing everything👉 Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

If you feel like your marketing isn't working, it might be becuase you're talking about what you do instead of the problem your customer is trying to solve.In this episode, we’re breaking down what pain points really are, how to identify your customer’s real frustrations, and how to use them so your marketing stops sounding like a pitch and starts sounding like relief.We cover:What a pain point actually is (and what it’s not)Why most small business messaging misses the markReal examples from service-based businesses5 questions to uncover your customer’s true painHow to use pain points in your offer, branding, and content👉 Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

Feel busy all day, but your business isn’t actually growing?It’s probably not because you need to work harder. It’s probably because you don’t know what to focus on next.In this episode, we break down the 4-stage growth framework we use to help small business owners stop doing random “busy work” and start doing the tasks that actually drive revenue.We cover:How to know what stage your business is inWhat to focus on daily at each stageWhy most people are doing visibility and promotional tasks too earlyA simple filter to decide if a task is worth your time10 growth activities that work at almost any stageGrowth isn’t about doing more.It’s about doing the right things in the right order.If you’re a small business owner with limited time and a limited budget, this episode will give you clarity on your next best move.👉 Join our newsletter for monthly marketing insights:https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletterAnd here are some other helpful resources mentioned in this episode:How To Create A Compelling Offerhttps://www.bigbadmarketing.com/blog/how-to-create-a-compelling-offerHow To Do Small Business Email Marketing Righthttps://www.bigbadmarketing.com/blog/how-to-do-small-business-email-marketing-rightHow Do You Choose The Right Social Channels For Your Businesshttps://www.bigbadmarketing.com/blog/how-do-you-choose-the-right-social-channels-for-your-businessHow To Get Stellar Testimonials To Promote Your Brandhttps://www.bigbadmarketing.com/blog/how-to-get-stellar-testimonials-to-promote-your-brand

Being the face of your brand sounds good in theory until you actually have to show up and post your photo, or share your opinion, or talk about what you do, or sell something with your name attached to it (eeeek!!).In this BBM Unfiltered episode, we’re talking honestly about what it feels like to be the face of your business.We cover:Why personal visibility feels so vulnerableThe difference between ego marketing and leadershipHow to show up without oversharing your lifeWhy hiding is usually costing you more than you thinkHow to make being the face of your brand feel aligned👉 Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

You have a clear offer (and YAY!), you’re finally ready to sell it. But asking someone to pay you thousands of dollars the first time they hear about you? That feels like a big leap.In this episode, we’re breaking down how to turn your offers into a simple, logical sales funnel that takes someone from “just found you” to “yes, I’m in.” No 97-step nonsense. Just a service-based funnel that respects how real humans actually buy.In this episode, we cover:What a sales funnel really is and why your business needs one (We go into way more detail in these two episodes about what a sales funnel is and how to build one)Why people rarely buy the first time they hear about youHow to define your core offer before building anything elseThe commitment ladder that builds trust without pressureHow to create a value-heavy warm-up layerWhat most service businesses forget after the sale👉 Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

If you’ve ever said, “I just don’t have time to market my business,” what you probably meant was: you’re stretched thin, you’re doing everything, and marketing keeps getting pushed to nights, weekends, or never.In this episode, we break down five ways to make the most of the limited time you do have to market your business, without waking up at 5 am, being on ever more platforms, or burning yourself out. This is about fewer, smarter moves that actually lead to leads, sales, and momentum.In this episode, we cover:Why the problem usually isn’t time, but the tasks you're choosing to focus onThe difference between effort-based and outcome-based marketingHow to choose one high-leverage marketing channelWhy batching beats multitasking every timeHow to separate visibility from conversionHow to create a realistic marketing rhythm you can actually sustain👉 Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

A lot of marketing advice is built around trends, algorithms, and posting constantly just to stay visible. It might work for a moment, but then it disappears, and you’re right back on the hamster wheel.In this episode, we’re talking about evergreen content: what it actually is, why it matters so much for small business owners, and how to create marketing assets that keep working long after you hit publish.We cover:What evergreen content really means (and what it doesn’t)Why chasing trends leads to burnout and inconsistent resultsWhere evergreen content works best (and where it doesn’t)How to create high-value content without overthinking itHow to turn one strong piece of content into many (also check out our episode on how to create once and publish everywhere aka COPE!)👉 Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

When was the last time you looked at your homepage like a total stranger? Not as the business owner who built it late at night with caffeine and Canva, but as someone clicking your link for the very first time.In this episode, we’re breaking down Home Page 101. We talk about the actual job of your homepage, the biggest mistakes small business owners make, and what matters most right now if you’re building with a real-world budget.We cover:The one job your homepage needs to doWhat a homepage is (and definitely is not)The non-negotiables every great homepage needsWhat you can stop stressing aboutBest practices for 2026 and beyond👉 Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

In this episode, we’re pulling back the curtain on what it actually looks like to run a remote, asynchronous business and the real-life systems, tradeoffs, and mindsets that keep things moving when life is loud.We talk about:Why we intentionally built Big Bad Marketing as a remote, async businessThe systems that matter more than being “always online”How work still moves even when routines disappearWhat clients actually care about (hint: not your availability)The honest tradeoffs of flexibility and freedomWhy clarity beats constant communication👉 Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

If you’re sending people to your website and hoping they “figure it out,” this episode is for you.In this episode of the Big Bad Marketing Podcast, we’re breaking down how to DIY a landing page that actually does its job by getting someone to take one clear action.We talk through:What a landing page actually is (and how it’s different from your website)Why sending traffic to your homepage usually kills conversionsHow fewer options lead to better resultsWhat needs to be above the fold to keep people from bouncingHow to match your message to the action you want someone to takeWhy clarity matters more than clever copy or pretty designWe also share real-world examples of how small businesses can use landing pages to test offers, compare channels, and make smarter decisions about what’s actually working without overcomplicating their setup.Join the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter for practical marketing guidance we don’t share anywhere else.And if this episode helped something click, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with a business owner who’s still sending everyone to their homepage and crossing their fingers.

This is an honest conversation about capacity, priorities, and learning to trust the season your business is actually in. We dig into why so many business owners feel behind even when they’re doing the right things, how mental clutter creates decision fatigue, and why not everything that matters needs to be done right now.We also talk about:The difference between “important” and “urgent”Why having ideas doesn’t mean you need to act on all of themLetting go of the pressure to be ready for everything at onceBuilding boundaries around your time, energy, and focusMaking decisions that support your real life, not an imaginary future version of your businessThis episode is for the business owner who feels stretched thin, overwhelmed by possibilities, or stuck in a loop of “I’ll get to that someday.” It’s a reminder that doing less intentionally is often what creates the most momentum.Join the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter for thoughtful insights, strategic guidance, and ideas that help you simplify instead of piling more on.If this conversation resonated, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share it with a fellow business owner who needs permission to slow down and focus on what actually matters.

Happy 2026!!In this Big Bad Marketing Unfiltered episode, we’re pulling back the curtain and sharing what we’ve learned after just over a year of running Big Bad Marketing. This is an honest conversation about the real highs, the hard moments, and the things we wish more business owners talked about out loud.We talk about decision fatigue, mental clutter, and the pressure to constantly do more, especially when you’re running a small business with limited time, limited budget, and a million tabs open in your brain.We also share what’s actually helped us simplify, make better decisions, and build a business that supports real life, not just growth for growth’s sake.These BBM Unfiltered episodes exist for one reason: to remind you that you’re not alone. That feeling behind, overwhelmed, or unsure doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. It just means you’re building something real.Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter for practical insights, reflections, and ideas we don’t share anywhere else.If this episode resonates, be sure to like, subscribe, and share it with another small business owner who needs a reminder that messy doesn’t mean failing.

This 16-minute guided meditation is designed for business owners who want to feel calmer, clearer, and more grounded as they move into their next season.Through gentle breathwork and visualization, you’ll be guided to release mental clutter, reconnect with what matters most, and envision a version of your business that feels aligned with your values and capacity. This is not about hustle or productivity. It’s about intention, presence, and clarity.This meditation is best listened to in a quiet space with headphones.

Planning your 2026 marketing doesn’t require a massive strategy doc or a brand-new platform. It requires clarity, priorities, and a plan that fits your real life.In this episode, we break down how to approach 2026 marketing in a way that actually feels doable. You’ll learn how to review what worked, let go of what didn’t, and build a focused plan that supports your business and your life.In this episode, we cover:The two things you should do before diving into 2026 planning (Hint: reflect and dream!)What to keep, what to stop, and what to refine going into 2026How to choose priorities when you don’t have time or budget to do everythingWhy clarity matters more than new tacticsHow to create a marketing plan you can actually stick withCheck out our Guided Meditation to settle your brain before you plan! https://youtu.be/BVBoxmhL26sSnag your 2026 Planning template:https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/s/BBM_New-Year-Planning-Template.pdf💌 Big Bad Marketing NewsletterMonthly insights, ideas, and actually useful marketing advice. Sign up athttps://bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

Have you ever opened Pinterest to “get inspired” for your business… and somehow ended up planning a fictional life in Italy instead?Same.In this episode of the Big Bad Marketing Podcast, we’re talking about how to create a vision board for your small business that’s not just vibes and pretty pictures, but something that actually guides your decisions, keeps you focused, and helps you build the business you keep thinking about at 2 am.We break down:Why vision boards work (even if you’re allergic to woo-woo)How a vision board can act as a strategic filter, not just inspirationThe two types of vision boards your business might need right nowHow to visualize revenue, impact, and growth without turning it into a manifestation clichéHow to turn your vision board into something actionable using habits and consistencyThe most common vision board mistakes small business owners make (and how to avoid them)This episode is part strategy, part mindset, and part “who do I need to become to support the business I say I want?”✨ Bonus for listeners:If you love the idea of pairing vision with habits, you can get 15% off a Sticker the Habit calendar using code BIGBAD. It’s a simple, analog way to track habits and actually follow through on the vision you’re creating.👉 https://stickerthehabit.etsy.com?coupon=BIGBADAnd if you want monthly marketing inspo that actually helps you think bigger without burning out, sign up for the Big Bad Marketing Newsletter at bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter.

Flyers. Postcards. Brochures. Snail mail.Is any of this actually working anymore… or are you just paying to be tossed straight into someone’s recycling bin?In this episode, we’re breaking down whether print marketing via mail still works in 2026, and the answer might surprise you. We’re walking you through when direct mail makes sense, when it doesn’t, how much it actually costs, and which types of small businesses see the highest ROI. (Spoiler: print is far from dead.)We even brought receipts from our friend Nikki Bernet at Local Trend, who shared insider data on targeting, budgeting, offer strategy, and why global brands like American Express and Domino’s still rely heavily on direct mail.You’ll learn:Why postcards and targeted mailers still convertThe difference between saturation mailers (like EDDM) vs. refined mailing listsWhich industries see the best return on printWhat types of offers work best (and which ones fall flat)How much you should expect to spend mailing to 1,000, 5,000, or 10,000 homesWho shouldn’t use direct mailHow to test the waters affordably using cooperative mailIf you’ve ever wondered whether sending physical mail is worth it or how to effectively send print campaigns without wasting money, this episode gives you the clarity you need.Want to learn more about affordable, targeted print campaigns? Connect with Nikki at localtrendcharleston.com.📬 Sign up for the BBM newsletter: bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

One year ago, we kicked off this podcast with a scrappy little elevator pitch and a mission: help real small business owners DIY their marketing on a budget. And honestly? That messy first draft was exactly what we needed to get started.Now, one year later, we’re revisiting our original elevator pitch, breaking down what’s changed, what’s stayed the same, and how our own clarity has evolved as Big Bad Marketing has grown. We’re also sharing the biggest lesson we’ve learned after working with small business owners all year long: if everything in your business feels hard, it usually starts with a fuzzy elevator pitch.In this episode, we’ll walk you through:Our original 2024 elevator pitch (and whether we’d change it today)The 5-part template you can still use to nail your own pitchHow your elevator pitch exposes deeper issues with your offers, pricing, or audienceHow to test, refine, and evolve your pitch as your business growsIf you want to reshape how you talk about what you do, and finally make it clear, confident, and easy for customers to say “ohhh, I need that”, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen to our original elevator pitch episode:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-elevator-pitch-how-to-sell-yourself-in-30-seconds/id1793837831?i=1000687632491📘 Read the companion blog post:https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/blog/heres-how-to-perfect-your-elevator-pitch📬 Get our monthly BBM newsletter:https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletterLet’s do this.

Before you set a single goal for 2026, you need to take an honest look at what actually happened in 2025. In this episode, we walk you through our Big Bad Biz Review, the six-page reflection we use for our business to understand the real story behind what happened this year.We cover the numbers that matter (revenue, margins, leads, LTV, CAC, and more) and the reflection questions most business owners skip: what felt heavy, what felt energizing, what decisions made your life easier, and where you fell out of alignment.You’ll leave with a clearer understanding of your patterns, your wins, your lessons, and the mindset shifts that deserve to follow you into the new year.This episode is part strategy, part therapy, and part truth-telling, the perfect reset before you build your 2026 plan.Resources we mention in this episode:2025 Year in Review Template: https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/s/2025-Big-Bad-Year-in-Review.pdf Business Math Guide: How to understand revenue, profit, margins, and what your numbers are really telling youhttps://www.bigbadmarketing.com/blog/business-math-revenue-profit-marginsHappiness Podcast Episode: The podcast we referenced about what actually drives happinesshttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/no-1-happiness-expert-if-your-friends-get-divorced/id1291423644?i=1000642058696Offer Blog: How to create a compelling offer that convertshttps://www.bigbadmarketing.com/blog/how-to-create-a-compelling-offer

In this episode, we walk through how to build a sustainable, stress-free marketing plan for 2026. Topics include:Why you burn out with marketing (and how to prevent it)Choosing the right platforms for youCreating a cadence that’s more than doableWhy your first 3 months of the year should be detailed, and the rest flexibleHow to repurpose instead of reinventingA simple sample plan:1 email per month1 social post per weekMapping topics to personas + pain pointsSign up for the BBM newsletter! https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletterResources:How to Choose the Right Marketing Channels for Your Small Biz User Personas: How to Actually Understand Your AudienceHow to COPE: Create Once, Publish Everywhere⁠How frequently to post on marketing channels⁠

If your marketing hasn’t been working, it’s probably because you’re doing what most small business owners accidentally do: sending traffic to something that’s not fully built yet.In this episode, we cover:Why your marketing isn’t converting (and why it’s not your fault)The real reason paid ads, boosted posts, and fancy websites flopThe 3 questions every small business must answer before marketing can workThe 8-step foundation every small biz needs:Clear, sellable offersBiz math + pricing that makes senseEnd-to-end delivery processYour buyer’s journeyUser personas + competitive landscapeMessaging + brand voicePlatformsWebsite basicsWhat to focus on in 2026 to show up consistently without burning outHow to create a simple, sustainable marketing cadence you’ll actually stick toRelated Big Bad Marketing episodes:How to Choose the Right Marketing Channels for Your Small BizBuilding great offersCreate once, publish everywhere (COPE)User Personas: How to Actually Understand Your AudienceTarget audience 101How to Build a Sales Funnel: Part 1 + Part 2

This week, we’re doing something a little different. This episode is a vibes-only, behind-the-scenes check-in. Because let’s be real: some weeks in business are just a lot.We’re talking about what happens when everything hits at once, deadlines, prospect calls, launches, life, and how we find the will (and the mindset) to keep going when we’d rather throw our laptops out the window.If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying your whole business on your back or wondering if it’s supposed to feel this hard sometimes, this one’s for you. It’s honest, it’s messy, and it’s proof you’re not alone.

Running a business comes with a never-ending to-do list, deadlines, and the occasional meltdown in front of your laptop. Stress is real. But so are the little rituals that help you reset.In this episode of the Big Bad Marketing Podcast, we’re getting real about the practices that keep us grounded and sane while building our business. Think of it as a menu of stress-busting ideas you can pull from when your brain feels fried.Here’s what we dive into:How we define stress (and why it shows up so often in entrepreneurship)Simple daily resets: water, movement, breaks, and knowing when to stopCreative outlets that unlock flow: pottery, watercolors, doodling, guitarBody and breath: yoga, kundalini, strength training, dance cardio, breath workCozy vibes: cooking, gardening, reading, cleaning, skincare, face masksSocial and mental resets: belly rubs (yes, really), meeting people IRL, keeping a clean deskOur favorite free breath work + dance videos on YouTube that anyone can tryJenné loves this channel - Like this 10 minute cardio workout videoThe 1 min shake it out A nice thai chi/qigong guyJenné LOVES YOGIGEMS! She makes kundalini accessible with short, not too intense kriyas, that aren't 90 mins. This is a good one.This is the breathwork video we did together. SO invigorating!💌 Want more behind-the-scenes convos like this? Join our Big Bad Marketing newsletter for tips, strategies, and the real talk of running a business: bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter🎧 More BBM episodes you might like:Take these 3 simple steps to make marketing feel less overwhelmingThe $500 marketing budget challenge (because money stress is real, too)Running a business doesn’t mean running yourself into the ground. Tune in for a reminder to breathe, reset, and get back to creating.👉 Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss a Big Bad episode!

This Halloween, we’re digging up the cursed advice that haunts small business owners everywhere.From “post every day no matter what” to “your product will sell itself,” we’re calling out the scary, bad marketing advice you should definitely not follow.Brooke and Jenné break down why these ghostly mistakes happen, how to fix them fast, and what to do instead so your marketing doesn’t end up six feet under.💀 Sign up for the October BBM Newsletter at bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter for smart (not spooky) marketing tips and our free 2026 Marketing Calendar!

Ever put weeks of effort into an event only to feel like crickets when the doors open? We’ve been there. In this episode of the Big Bad Marketing Podcast, we’re breaking down exactly how to promote an in-person event so people actually show up, without blowing your budget.Whether you’re hosting a workshop, pop-up, open house, or expo booth, this step-by-step guide will help you:Map out your event goals and plan ahead (so you’re not scrambling)Build a smart digital promotion timeline that creates hype and urgencyUse print the right way (flyers, postcards, signage) without wasting moneyCreate must-have collateral and avoid last-minute rush feesFollow up after the event so you keep momentum and turn attendees into customersWe’ll share what worked, what didn’t, and the lessons we learned the hard way so you don’t have to.💌 Want more step-by-step marketing tips like this? Join the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter🎧 More episodes to check out:How to crush your first expo without being cringeyThe $500 marketing budget challenge for when you need to stretch your dollars and still get resultsIf you’re serious about filling seats and creating buzz for your next event, this episode is your playbook.👉 Be sure to hit subscribe so you don’t miss all the upcoming goodness!

Ever stood in front of a folding table, wondering if anyone actually wants to talk to you about your business? Same.In this episode, we’re sharing everything we learned from our first in-person event, the Mt. Pleasant Small Business Expo!You’ll hear:How we prepped our booth (what worked and what didn’t)How to attract attention without being cringeyWhy relationships beat hard sells every time.If you’ve got an event coming up, or you just want to know how to show up bigger in person, you’ll walk away with real, tactical tips you can use right away.Join the newsletter! bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

If you’ve got 3,000 subscribers but only 17 people opening your emails, that’s not an audience, it’s digital dead weight. In this episode we break down why cleaning your email list can actually increase sales, improve deliverability, and make your marketing work harder for you.You’ll learn:The cold, hard truth about email list engagementSigns it’s time to clean your list (and what to look for)How to run a simple re-engagement campaignWhy fewer subscribers can actually mean more impact💻 Want more tactical marketing tips delivered straight to your inbox by people who send amazing emails? Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing Newsletter. It’s packed with practical, funny, and usable advice, and you’ll get our list of marketing levers as a bonus.

You've gotten your first (or second, or third) tentative yes from a prospective client. What do you do now? You need a more formal proposal that sets clear expectations of what you'll deliver, a contract so you look like a real business, and an invoice so you can actually get your $$$. In this episode of the Big Bad Marketing podcast, we cover everything you need to do from the initial "let's work together!" to actually delivering the work.Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing newsletter at https://www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletterOther resources we mentioned:Business proposals episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-to-create-business-proposals-that-get-signed/id1793837831?i=1000703469101Invoicing episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/invoice-like-a-pro-without-fancy-software/id1793837831?i=1000701584871Testimonials episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/testimonials-that-work-what-to-ask-when-to-ask-and/id1793837831?i=1000718316840

Defining your “target audience” shouldn’t feel like writing a Pinterest mood board. In this episode we get real about how to actually figure out who your customers are, using a mix of data, common sense, and a little tough love.You’ll learn:Why your audience isn’t who you want, it’s who’s already buyingHow to use data (and simple questions) to find out who that isThe traps that make audience-building way more complicated than it needs to beHow to test, refine, and pivot without a market research budget📬 Want more common sense marketing tips like this? Sign up for the BBM Newsletter. You’ll get practical, funny, and genuinely helpful marketing advice straight to your inbox (plus our full list of marketing levers as a bonus!)

Got the marketing basics down but still want to build a client-creating machine? You’ve got a real business and a $500/month marketing budget. Now it’s time to spend it where it counts. So, where should you invest?In this episode we talk through how to make your next $500 work smarter, whether you're online or local. We’ll cover:What to do for free before you spend a dimeHow to use content and email to build trust and get leadsLow-risk ways to test ads, grow visibility, and boost referralsWhat not to spend on (yet)Perfect for solo service providers, side hustlers turned full-timers, or local pros looking to get booked solid. Let’s turn your “I hope this works” into “damn, this is working.”Want bite-sized, free business tips in your inbox?Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing Newsletter, an email you'll actually look forward to.If this episode helped you make sense of your marketing budget, do us a favor:💥 Follow the Big Bad Marketing Podcast💥 Leave us a 5-star review💥 Share this episode with another small biz owner who needs a strategy Your support helps us keep showing up!

Got $500/month for marketing, but no audience, and no idea where to start? You’re not alone. And, good news: you don’t need a massive budget to get visible and land your first customers.In this episode, we explain exactly how to spend your first $500/month to market your brand-new business strategically (not randomly). Whether you’re a digital service provider or an in-person business, we’ll help you make smart, scrappy moves that build trust with your prospects, and get them to buy in! We cover:What to do before spending money on marketingThe best free marketing moves to give you a head startHow to prioritize website, email, and content basics without blowing your budgetSmart ways to market yourself locallyWhat NOT to waste your money on (no, you don’t need a $2,000 logo)💌 Want more budget-friendly marketing tips? Join our monthly newsletter.🎧 Subscribe to the podcast to keep getting kick-@$$ marketing tips. And if you love us (or hate us!) leave us a five star review.

You’re posting, emailing, showing up on social… but is any of it actually working?In this episode, we walk you through how to track your marketing data like a professional marketer, without getting overwhelmed by spreadsheets or vanity metrics, or buying expensive software. You’ll learn what to measure, what to ignore, and how to use data to make smart, strategic decisions.Here’s what we cover:The 2 questions all data should answer: What’s working? What’s not?What to track across your website, email, and social mediaHow to set goals that make sense for your business (not someone else’s)What to do when you hit a dip, plateau, or confusing trendSmart tools to help you track without overcomplicating itWhy small, consistent tweaks win vs. complete overhaulsGoing with your gut is great...until it’s costing you sales. So let's rewrite the story with a strategic plan to track the right metrics!📩 Want help figuring out what’s actually working in your business?Join the Big Bad Newsletter for smart, actionable marketing tips (with a little sass!)🎧 Subscribe or follow to get all the small business marketing ideas. And, leave us a five star review to help us reach more small biz owners who have no clue what to do!

The holidays sneak up fast, and if you wait until November to start planning your promos, you might end up with a big lump of coal. In this episode we share why September is the secret weapon for holiday marketing and what you can do now to make Q4 less stressful (and more profitable).We cover:The biggest mistake small businesses make with holiday planningHow to map out offers, deadlines, and capacity before the rushSimple steps you can take this month to get ahead (without burning out)💌 Want more tactical tips like this? Sign up for the BBM Newsletter. It’s like hot cocoa for your business, except useful year-round.📌 Related blog posts we mentioned:Business Math: Make Your Margins Make SenseAnnual Marketing Calendar

Trying to grow your social media following, but the people just aren't following? Chasing likes and views but still not seeing results?In this episode we talk about vanity metrics, the shiny objects you're chasing, that are really just killing your strategy.We break down:What vanity metrics actually are, and why they don’t matterThe question to ask before you post: “Does this provoke real action?”What does matter if you want your marketing to help you make more moneyHow to grow your audience without selling your soul to the algorithmReal strategies for building connection (and later conversions) not just contentBecause the real flex isn’t a viral reel, it’s a small, engaged audience that buys, shares, and sticks around.📩 Want marketing tips that actually work for your small biz?Sign up for the Big Bad Newsletter.🎧 Subscribe so you don’t miss a single episode! And, leave us five star review! It helps us reach more scrappy small business owners like you.

If your small biz sales funnel is messy, or nonexistent, this is for you. Today, we’re breaking down exactly how to build a simple, strategic sales funnel that guides people from “just found you” to “ready to buy” without expensive, fancy tools or building a whole tech stack.In this episode, we’ll show you:The 4 core stages of a working funnel: Attract, Engage, Nurture, ConvertHow to tie your content to each phase so it actually moves people forwardReal questions to ask about your audience at every stage of their buyer’s journeyTools to help you map your funnel and keep it scrappyCommon funnel mistakes (and how to fix them fast)Plus, we drop our favorite tech tools and give some content examples to help you turn your random posts into a clear, effective funnel.📩 Want help putting this into action?Sign up for the Big Bad Newsletter for real examples, plug-and-play templates, and marketing strategy tips delivered straight to your inbox.🎧 Hit follow or subscribe so you don’t miss an episode. Loving the show? Leave us a quick review. It helps more scrappy small business owners find their way.

If you’ve ever thought, “I’m doing all the marketing things, but nothing’s really clicking,” this episode is your wake-up call.Today, we’re breaking down what a sales funnel actually is and why every small business needs one. Yes, even if you’re just getting started. And, yes, even if your making less than $100K.We walk you through:The three key stages of a simple funnel (Awareness, Consideration, Conversion)Why your marketing feels chaotic without oneWhat to post (and when) to actually guide people to buyReal-world symptoms of a broken or non-existent funnelWe break down what a funnel really is (not some techy, complicated thing) but a simple way to guide people from “just found out your brand exists” to “ready to buy” by connecting all your marketing efforts into one clear path.📩 Want simple, actionable marketing tips delivered straight to your inbox?Sign up for the Big Bad NewsletterLove this podcast?🔔 Subscribe so you don’t miss next week’s episode where we show you how to build your funnel from scratch, and align your content to every stage.

In our last epsiode, we talked about why staying focused as a small business owner feels impossible (it has something to do with juggling every single role in your business.) But, we didn't want to leave you hanging! In this bonus episode of The Big Bad Marketing Podcast, we share the tools, tips, mindset shifts, and strategies we use to stay (mostly) on track while swimming through a million tabs, to-dos, and distractions.You’ll learn about our favorite focus tools, like project management, time blocks, no-meeting days. We talk about how to protect your time, do deep work, and what to do when you inevitably derail.If you’re building a business, wearing all the hats, and trying to hold it all together, this one’s for you.Need help keeping staying on track?The Big Bad Marketing Newsletter is your monthly check-in for clarity, strategy, and focus.It’s free, it’s actionable, and it’s like a mini reset button in your inbox.👉 www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

Ever feel like your brain has 87 tabs open, and none of them are loading?Welcome to small business ownership.In this episode of The Big Bad Marketing Podcast, we’re talking about the hard, messy truth of staying focused when you’re wearing all the hats. This is a real convo about the sh*t we deal with every day, and if you're out here tryna' run a business, you probably do, too. We talk about why staying focused is harder than ever as an entrepreneur in 2025, and the difference between true distraction vs. overload.We also talk about how constantly switching tasks keeps you in a mental spiral instead of actually helping you get things done. Learn our process for pulling each other out of the out-of-focus spiral when we’re deep in the weeds, and a few questions we ask to get re-centered.💡 Feeling scattered? We got you.Sign up for the Big Bad Marketing Newsletter. It’s free, it’s focused, and it’s a monthly nudge to keep your brain and business aligned.👉 www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

In this episode of Big Bad Marketing Podcast, we break down why newsletters are still one of the most powerful marketing tools to reach your target audience, and how to build one that people actually want to read. We cover why newsletters work (and what they do better than social), how to write emails that feel like conversations, not commercials, and we tell you exactly what to include, how long to make it, and how often to send them out so your prospects are excited to see what you have to say, not scrolling past.Learn to grow your list without being a pain in the inbox...Plus we share our favorite tools and platforms for email marketing (that are beginner and budget friendly. )🗞️ Want to see how it’s done?We send out a monthly newsletter full of marketing tips, real biz updates, and a few big, bad jokes. Sign up here: www.bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter

Struggling to get customer testimonials that actually do something for your small business? You’re not alone. In this episode, we break down how to ask for testimonials (without feeling cringe), what the testimonials should cover, and where to put them for max impact.We include five elements of a killer testimonial, how to prompt your clients so they give specifics that help new prospects convert, instead of the generic “it's amazing!” and what to do if the testimonial you get kinda sucks.We’re also talking strategy: how testimonials fit into the buyer’s journey, and where to put them to boost credibility and conversions. (Hint: Sprinkle that sh*t everywhere!)Listen in, then grab our free marketing newsletter at bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter for more actionable tips like these, designed for small businesses that want big results on a budget.

AI is everywhere right now, and makes quick work of A LOT of tasky tasks... but just because you can use it for pretty much everything doesn’t mean you should. In this episode, we break down how to use AI to level up your small biz marketing, and when to absolutely avoid it.We talk about: How prompt AI like a pro (shout out Jeff Su!) How to build a system that keeps things humanAnd the biggest AI no-no's, like letting it write your emails to customers... yikes.Whether you’re curious about AI or already using it in your workflow, this episode is packed with practical tips, real examples so you can make the most of your machine bestie. 🎧 Listen in now! And if you want more smart strategies for growing your biz on a small budget, sign up for our free newsletter at bigbadmarketing.com/newsletter. We’ll send you our go-to list of marketing levers to pull today, with or without AI.

Welcome to your crash course in email automations: drips campaigns, nurture campaigns, and everything in between.You've already started your email list and you've got the email marketing basics down. Now what?In this episode, we break down the difference between drip and nurture campaigns (and why you need both to move prospects through your sales funnels and get them to buy.)We cover:✅ What a drip campaign is and when to use one (so you can drip it real good 😉)✅ How nurture campaigns instigate action so people buy things✅ Why your email provider matters (and when it’s time to graduate from Squarespace)✅ Step-by-step: How to build smarter email campaigns✅ Essential automations to set up ASAP (welcome sequences, abandoned cart, lead magnet delivery & more)✅ Common mistakes small biz owners make (and how to avoid them)✨ Bonus: We rant (lovingly) about why most businesses get email soooo wrong, like emailing daily with nothing to say, or disappearing for 3 years then suddenly showing up with a “flash sale.” Just. Don’t.Ready for more from Big Bad?👀 Follow @bigbadmktg on Instagram✉️ Sign up for our free newsletter for tips, tricks, and bad jokes🤑 Share this episode with an entrepreneur who doesn't know how to do email marketing but needs to⭐️ Leave a 5-star review so we can reach world domination

🔥 Hot take: you don’t need a big marketing budget to make a big impact.In Part 2 of our low-cost marketing series, we’re back with five more free or cheap marketing tools you can use to promote your small business without running ads, hiring a team, or crying into your empty bank account.Once you jump into some basics (the stuff we covered in part one: social, blogging, referrals, email, and lead magnets), it's time to step it up with visibility-building, authority-boosting, and community-driven marketing methods to get people knocking on your door (to give you money!)We cover:✅ How to find win-win partnerships with other businesses (that make sense for you and them!)✅ Hosting webinars or virtual events that drive value and bring in leads✅ How to make your Google Business Profile capture the attention of your prospects, even when you’re asleep✅ SEO basics so you can get found on Google without hiring an agency✅ Why selling yourself in real-life convos is still one of the best (and cheapest) marketing movesThese tools are perfect for solopreneurs and scrappy small biz owners who are ready to grow without a giant team or giant budget.Want more Big Bad insight?👀 Follow @bigbadmktg on Instagram✉️ Sign up for our free newsletter for no-fluff strategies🤑 Share this episode with a business buddy on a budget⭐️ Leave a 5-star review and tell the world about us!

Think you need a fat ad budget to get more customers? Nah. There are tons of free or cheap strategies to market your business. In this part 1 episode we share the first five marketing moves you can make right now to grow your small business without spending all your savings. Whether you're a solopreneur, accidental entrepreneur, or a side-hustler, these tools make marketing accessible, without the overpriced softwares or marketing expertise. We cover:✅ Why social media still matters, and how to use it to stir up excitement around your brand (without boosting posts)✅ How a scrappy blog can drive traffic (and build your street cred)✅ Referral programs: the cheapest marketing you’re not using enough ✅ Email marketing made easy (and powerful) with free tools✅ Lead magnets designed to attract more paying customersStay tuned for Part 2 Low Cost Marketing Strategies for Small Businesses where we cover partnerships and collabs, virtual events and webinars, Google Business Profiles and managing your digital reputation, SEO-ing, and selling yourself!Want more Big Bad nonsense?👀 Follow @bigbadmktg on Instagram✉️ Sign up for our free newsletter (it's packed with good stuff)🤑Share this episode with a business buddy on a budget⭐️ Leave a 5-star review if you learned something new (or just like our vibes)