Market This: The Marketing Podcast for Small Business Owners

What happens when someone joins your list today, but doesn’t need you for six months? If you want to grow local business, the answer isn’t sending more emails. It’s giving people a reason to remember you when the timing is right.For a local business owner, email is the bridge between “they signed up” and “they’re ready to buy”. Local marketing works best when trust is built before someone needs to make a decision. That’s why a simple four-email sequence can do more than a complex funnel.You’ll learn the four emails to send: welcome and trust, how you think, what it’s like to work with you, and the nudge that makes taking the next step feel easy. You’ll hear why a low-friction conversation can work better than a hard sell, how to remove the uncertainty that stops people booking, and how to use local marketing tips without constantly inventing new content.If you’re wondering how to market local business without adding another huge task to your week, start with one job per email. Teach something. Remove an objection. Get a reply. Invite a conversation. This approach helps you simplify marketing while staying useful.We also talk about cadence, sensible segmentation, and repurposing the content you’ve already created.You don’t need twenty-seven automations. You need messaging that keeps you present, builds familiarity and makes your business easier to remember. And that’s how you grow local business without making your marketing harder than it needs to be. It’s a practical way to grow local business simply.If your email list has been gathering digital dust, don’t wait for a bigger audience. Start with the people you already have, give them something worth opening, and keep showing up. Ready to turn your emails into a clearer path to sales? Book a free copy call with me and let’s find the gaps in your messaging.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

You probably don’t need more marketing time. You need to stop believing the rules that make marketing feel harder than it is. If you’re a local business owner juggling clients, admin, simplify marketing by looking at what is already happening around you.The first myth is that marketing needs its own dedicated block of time. It doesn’t. A client question, a result you helped create, a problem you solved or a process you use every day can become useful content. If you’re wondering how to market your local business without adding another job to your list, start by capturing those moments. It can support small business growth without taking you away from the work.The second myth is that visibility automatically makes you salesy. Showing your process, answering real questions and sharing what you know is not the same as pressuring someone to buy. Good local marketing helps people understand what you do and decide whether you’re right for them. A useful local marketing tip is to ask: am I helping someone understand my work, or pushing them to act now?The third myth is that you have to post every day for marketing to work. You don’t. As a local business owner, you’re far more familiar with your message than your audience is. Someone discovering you today may be hearing your core idea for the first time. This is where Episode 38, Why Repetition Is Actually a Good Thing, fits perfectly : repetition can build recognition rather than boredom.To simplify marketing, notice what your business is already teaching you, capture it, share what you know and repeat the messages that matter. You don’t need to reinvent your strategy every time you post. You need to give the right people enough chances to understand how you help.Ready to simplify marketing and find the good material already sitting inside your business? Book a free copy call and let’s make it sound like you.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Marketing for local business can feel like a strange game: the more you repeat your message, the more you start assuming everyone is sick of hearing it. But what if repetition is why people finally remember you?I’m breaking down why consistency isn’t about posting three times a week or recycling the same sentence. It’s about choosing a clear message and saying it often enough, in different ways, that your audience starts to associate you with the problem you solve. That matters for local business growth because customers are busy and rarely see everything you create.You’ll see the difference between your experience and your audience’s experience. You see every post, email, website change and offer. They might see one post today, disappear for weeks, then suddenly need exactly what you provide. That’s why changing your message too quickly can undermine local business messaging before it has a chance to land. Good marketing for local business gives the message time to stick.I’ll show you how to find your “chorus” — the one or two ideas you want to become known for — while letting the “verses” change through stories, examples, questions, myths and practical advice. You’ll learn to judge your messaging using real signals, not the feeling that you’ve said it too many times. For any local business owner, that means asking what evidence you have that your message isn’t working.I’ll share a simple repetition rule to stop you changing direction. These local marketing tips are designed to make your marketing easier to create and clearer for your audience. A business marketing expert can help you work out what your own chorus should be, but the first step is getting clear on the message.If you’re ready to get clearer on what you want to be known for, book a free copy call. That’s a practical place to start. This is marketing for local business.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

A beautiful website can still leave potential customers thinking, “What does this business actually do?” That disconnect is rarely a design problem. It’s a messaging problem. Great websites aren’t built by one person trying to do every job.Website copywriting and design solve different problems. Design guides attention, builds hierarchy and makes a site easier to navigate. Website copywriting clarifies what you do, who you help, why someone should care and what they should do next. For local businesses, those words often become your first sales conversation.Good design cannot fix vague messaging. A polished layout won’t make a generic headline persuasive. Strong local business marketing starts with understanding the customer, the problem you solve and the reason people should choose you.You’ll learn why copy should come before design, how to make smarter decisions when your website budget is tight, and what to ask a generalist. These local business strategies are about knowing what expertise your project actually needs.The deeper lesson is that a strong messaging strategy business owners can use starts before fonts, colours or layouts. Get clear on your audience, your difference, your key objections and the action you want visitors to take. Then let design make that message easier to understand and act on. Website copywriting becomes a strategic asset rather than words dropped into a layout.That approach can help you grow local business without relying on a prettier website alone. It gives designers and copywriters a stronger foundation for collaboration.If your website feels polished but isn’t generating the enquiries you expect, start with the words. Book a free copy call and let’s work out what your website actually needs to say before deciding what it needs to look like.Book a free copy call: lindsaysmithcreative.caThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Business Messaging Strategy isn't about finding the perfect words. It's about telling the right stories. If your marketing sounds like everyone else's, chances are you're relying on broad claims instead of real moments that help people connect with your business. The strongest brands don't simply say they're reliable or customer-focused; they prove it through stories that people remember.Every local business owner already has powerful examples hidden in everyday client interactions. A stressful phone call, an unexpected challenge, or a problem solved at exactly the right time can communicate far more than a list of services ever will. That's why business messaging strategy works best when it's rooted in authentic experiences instead of polished marketing language. Those moments build trust, strengthen your messaging strategy, and help potential clients see exactly what it's like to work with you.Using a simple storytelling framework, you'll learn how to identify meaningful client moments, highlight the tension, demonstrate the transformation, and connect each story back to your business values. Whether you're creating website copy, writing emails, recording videos, or sharing local marketing tips on social media, this approach helps your marketing sound more human and memorable. If you're focused on local business growth, these small stories can become one of your biggest competitive advantages.As a marketing copywriter, I see businesses struggle because they describe what they do instead of showing how they help. Business messaging strategy bridges that gap by making your message specific, relatable, and impossible to confuse with a competitor's. Business messaging strategy isn't about creating more content. It's about creating stronger connections through stories your audience will actually remember.Ready to uncover the stories already inside your business? Book a Website Copy Audit and discover how to turn your real experiences into copy that sounds like you and attracts the right clients.Book a Website Copy Audit: lindsaysmithcreative.ca/auditThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

A lot of business owners assume a better local advertising strategy starts with choosing the right marketing channel. But what if the real problem isn't where you're advertising. It's what your message is saying? Before investing in more campaigns, it's worth asking whether people instantly understand who you are, what you do, and why they should choose you.A memorable business isn't built on a polished logo alone. Strong local business branding gives people something to recognize, while local business messaging gives them a reason to remember you. When your message lacks clarity, every marketing effort has to work harder, no matter how much you spend. And this is where a clear messaging strategy becomes the foundation for sustainable local business growth.You'll discover why trying to promote everything often causes customers to remember nothing, how to identify what your business should be known for, and why rebranding rarely fixes unclear positioning. If you've been wondering how to market local business more effectively, these practical local marketing tips will help you create a clearer promise before amplifying it through advertising.Because advertising doesn't create clarity, it amplifies whatever already exists. A strong local advertising strategy works when every touchpoint reinforces the same idea, helping customers immediately understand your value and making every marketing dollar go further.If your website looks professional but isn't converting visitors into customers, it may be time to review your message before changing your marketing. Book a Website Copy Audit to uncover the gaps, strengthen your positioning, and build a local advertising strategy that supports long-term results instead of short-term fixes.Website Copy Audit: lindsaysmithcreative.ca/auditThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

If your local business marketing tries to speak to everyone, it may be giving your ideal customer no reason to choose you. It feels safer to keep every door open, but broad messaging often creates confusion instead of confidence. The businesses that attract the right customers aren't always the loudest, they're the clearest.It's not about listing every service you offer; it's about helping the right person recognize themselves in your message. Because when your website tries to answer every question for every visitor, it rarely answers the emotional question that matters most: "Is this business right for me?" And this is where local business messaging becomes a competitive advantage.Using the example of a photographer serving multiple audiences, you'll see why positioning your homepage around one ideal customer creates stronger connections without limiting your business. Discover why how to market local business is less about reaching more people and more about making the right people stop scrolling, trust your expertise, and take action. That shift alone can fuel local business growth while making every marketing effort work harder.If you're a local business owner, this conversation challenges one of the biggest myths in local business marketing: niching your message isn't the same as niching your business. Your marketing attracts; your operations deliver. Understanding that difference makes your website, testimonials, headlines, and overall copywriter marketing strategy far more persuasive while giving you practical local marketing tips you can apply immediately.Strong local business marketing removes uncertainty before price or reviews ever enter the conversation. When your words clearly position who you're best equipped to help, trust grows naturally—and so do enquiries.Book a Website Copy Audit to discover where your messaging is blending into the background and learn the small changes that can make a big difference in how your website converts.Website Copy Audit: https://www.lindsaysmithcreative.ca/audit This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

What if local business growth has less to do with the latest marketing tactic and more to do with the beliefs shaping every decision you make? If you've been holding back from posting, raising your prices, or showing up consistently, this conversation may reveal what's really standing in your way. Sometimes the biggest breakthrough starts with changing how you see yourself, not your marketing plan.You'll discover why visibility isn't the same as ego, how fear of being judged by people you know can quietly limit your business, and why consistency will always outperform chasing quick wins. From practical local marketing tips to strengthening your local business messaging, you'll learn how small mindset shifts can create lasting momentum without pretending to be someone you're not.You'll also hear why confident pricing, choosing a niche, and building authentic local business marketing can help you grow local business in a way that feels sustainable. Rather than relying on endless tactics or complicated local advertising strategies, you'll be encouraged to build a business that reflects your strengths and earns trust over time. This conversation also builds naturally on the ideas shared in Episode 26: Stop Overthinking Email Marketing, giving you another perspective on creating meaningful, long-term success.The truth is, local business growth isn't built through perfection or constant hustle. It's built by showing up, serving the right people, and thinking bigger than yesterday. When you shift your mindset, your marketing becomes more natural, more consistent, and far more effective. If you're ready to create local business growth that feels aligned with who you are, this episode offers practical encouragement to help you move forward with confidence.If you're ready to take the next step, book a free call and let's talk about where your business is today and the opportunities that could help you achieve lasting local business growth.Book a free call! This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Too many service businesses think they have a marketing problem when they actually have a systems problem. They're posting on social media, testing ads, updating their website, experimenting with local email marketing, and creating endless business marketing content. Yet leads remain inconsistent and growth feels harder than it should.This is where local business marketing often goes wrong. Business owners collect tactics without understanding how those tactics work together. More visibility doesn't automatically create more customers. Because awareness alone isn't enough. People need a clear path from discovering your business to trusting you and ultimately taking action.Every customer journey starts with a problem. Whether someone needs a landscaper, photographer, financial advisor, or another service provider, they begin by searching for a solution. Getting found is important, but it's only the first step. Effective local business marketing requires a system that guides prospects through every stage of decision-making.As prospects evaluate their options, they ask important questions. Can they trust you? Do you understand their situation? Are you different from the competition? This is where strong messaging matters. For any local business strategist, the goal isn't simply generating attention, it's building confidence and removing friction throughout the buying process.Sales conversations create another common leak. Many business owners shift from helping to pitching. But customers aren't looking for features and packages. They're looking for outcomes. This insight is essential for a local business copywriter creating messaging that connects with real customer needs and motivations.The strongest businesses understand that local business marketing is not about adding more tools. It's about building a customer journey that moves people from awareness to trust to action. When every touchpoint supports the next step, marketing becomes simpler and more effective.If your leads seem to disappear somewhere between discovery and conversion, it may be time to examine the entire system. Because successful local business marketing isn't about doing more. It's about doing the right things in the right order. And that's exactly how sustainable growth happens.Book a free call to identify where your customer journey is breaking down and discover the next best step for your business.Free Copy Call: Book it now. This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Have you ever felt like you're doing all the right marketing activities but still not seeing the results you expected? Many business owners assume they need more visibility, better social media, or a bigger advertising budget. In reality, the problem is often much deeper. A strong marketing strategy for local business starts with clear messaging, not more tactics.When your audience isn't sure who you help, what you do, or why they should choose you, every marketing effort becomes harder. This is where messaging strategy makes the difference. Before investing in content marketing, email marketing, or another marketing channel, it's essential to build a foundation that helps customers instantly understand your value.Many local business owners unknowingly create confusion by speaking to multiple audiences at once. Their website, social content, and sales conversations send mixed messages. The result? Prospective customers hesitate because they're not sure the business is meant for them. A clear marketing strategy for local business helps eliminate that confusion and creates consistency across every customer touchpoint.You'll discover why clear positioning matters more than constantly chasing new tactics, how strong messaging improves website copywriting, and why visibility alone isn't enough to drive growth. Because when your message isn't clear, even the best local business marketing efforts struggle to generate results.This conversation also highlights why clarity can become a competitive advantage. You may not have the largest budget, but you can create stronger connections through strategic communication. Whether you're focused on digital marketing for local business, networking, advertising, or client retention, clear messaging makes every activity more effective. And this is where a well-defined marketing strategy for local business begins to outperform random marketing efforts.The goal isn't to be everywhere. It's to be understood. When your foundation is strong, your content becomes easier to create, your offers become easier to explain, and your marketing becomes more effective. A successful marketing strategy for local business starts with understanding exactly who you're talking to and what they need to hear.If you're wondering whether your website messaging is helping or hurting your growth, a Website Copy Audit can help uncover opportunities to strengthen your positioning, clarify your message, and improve customer alignment.Website Copy Audit: lindsaysmithcreative.ca/auditThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

You know you should be posting content. You might even have ideas. But the moment you actually sit down to create something, an hour disappears and you have nothing to show for it.Sound familiar? However, that's not a content problem. It's a clarity problem.In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly why local business owners get stuck in the content spiral and giving you a simple, repeatable framework to get unstuck for good.What we cover:Why content marketing feels so performative (and how to ditch that mindset for good)The real job of your content (it's not what you think)The only three things every piece of content needs to do: educate, reassure, or remindWhy one post should have one job (not five)How to stop chasing perfection and start building momentumThree questions to ask yourself every time you sit down to create contentThe framework in a nutshell:Every piece of content you put out into the world should do one of three things:Educate: help someone understand something they didn't know beforeReassure: lower the fear or doubt standing between your ideal client and a yesRemind: stay top of mind so people don't forget you existThat's it. Pick one. One post, one job.Three questions to keep in your back pocket:What am I helping someone understand right now?What fear or doubt am I reducing?Am I just staying visible so people don't forget I exist?If you're still feeling stuck on what your content should actually say, I'd love to help. Book a free copy call with me at lindsaysmithcreative.ca — we'll figure it out together.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

On this episode of Market This, I'm breaking down why most websites are quietly losing potential clients and what you need to do to fix it. Most websites aren’t failing because they look bad. They’re failing because they quietly turn visitors away before a conversation starts. Website copywriting is often the hidden reason behind that gap between traffic and enquiries. If your site feels “fine” but isn’t converting, this breakdown changes how you see what’s happening.You’ll learn how a seven-second homepage test reveals what’s working instantly, why hero sections often miss the mark, and how structure impacts conversions. website copywriting shifts here from writing words to guiding decisions.From calls to action placement to missing page elements, the audit process shows how messaging strategy affects performance. Local business marketing relies on clarity at every step, while content marketing only works when it reflects what clients actually need to hear.This is where strong website copywriting makes the difference. It sharpens positioning, highlights differentiators, and removes friction that causes potential clients to leave.For service-based businesses focused on marketing for local business growth, the goal is simple: increase trust and turn visits into enquiries. Done well, this helps boost local sales without more traffic, just better messaging.Ready to improve your website? Book a website copy audit to get a professional breakdown of your homepage and services page and uncover what’s costing you clients. Website copywriting is often the difference between being found and being chosen.Book: lindsaysmithcreative.ca/auditThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Most local business owners spend weeks perfecting their website's look, the colours, the fonts, the layout, and then slap on a headline like "Helping you achieve financial freedom" and call it done. However, if someone lands on your site and bounces, it's almost never because of the design. It's because your headline didn't stop them.In this episode, I break down why generic headlines are silently killing your website's performance, using a real example from a recent website copy audit I did for a financial planner. Her site looked great. Her business was solid. But her headline could have belonged to literally anyone, a bank, a coach, an app, a newsletter. And that's exactly the problem.I walk you through what a strong headline actually does (spoiler: it's not about being clever), the three things every good headline needs to include, and how to rework yours even if you're not a writer. As a website copywriter who's looked at hundreds of homepages, I can tell you, the fix is almost never a full rewrite. It's just saying the right thing more clearly. I also get into something most people miss: the connection between your headline and search intent, and why clarity builds trust faster than design ever will.If you've been wondering why your website isn't converting the way it should, this episode is a good place to start.In this episode, I cover:Why "professional-sounding" headlines are usually the weakest part of a local business websiteThe real-life audit example that shows exactly what a vague headline costs youThe one question I asked that completely changed this client's messagingWhat your headline actually needs to do (it's simpler than you think)The search intent layer most business owners overlookA quick framework you can use to rewrite your own headline todayIf you want a professional's eyes on your website copy, book a website copy audit at: lindsaysmithcreatie.ca/audit.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Most local business owners think standing out means louder branding, better design, or more content. But that's not what actually drives attention. The real issue sits deeper, in your messaging strategy, and how clearly your offer lands with the people you actually want to reach.Websites don't fail because the service is weak. They fail because the language is generic, overused, and sounds exactly like every competitor on the block. When your homepage reads like a template, visitors stop seeing you as different.This episode breaks down what actually makes people stop scrolling and pay attention. You'll hear why unclear positioning blocks trust, how professional language often backfires, and how stronger local visibility strategies can change the way your business shows up online. I also get into how to market a local business more effectively and when working with a website copywriter can help translate what you do into words that actually convert.For a lot of local business owners, the biggest mistake is trying to sound universal instead of specific, appealing to everyone, avoiding the details, and leaning on industry clichés that say nothing. Whether you're a local service provider or a growing brand, those patterns make it harder for potential clients to see themselves in your services. The shift happens when your message gets specific enough that the right client immediately recognizes themselves. Instead of vague promises, you create clarity, the kind that drives trust, referrals, and inquiries. That's where better messaging strategy and refined positioning start working together.If you're ready to tighten your message, a Website Copy Audit looks at your homepage and key pages to find where your copy is losing attention and how to fix it. It's a practical way to sharpen your messaging strategy so your local business starts attracting the right clients instead of blending in.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

A lot of local business owners don’t struggle with marketing, they struggle with staying remembered. And email marketing often gets pushed aside because social media feels faster, easier, and more visible. The thing is, those platforms don’t belong to you.Email marketing changes that. It gives you a direct line to your audience without algorithms deciding who sees you and when. And for a local business, that shift is the difference between being occasionally noticed and consistently booked.What you’ll hear in this episode is a grounded breakdown of how to build a simple, sustainable email list without funnels, complicated systems, or overthinking every word. Because effective email marketing isn’t about complexity. It’s about clarity and consistency.You’ll learn how email marketing for local business owners works differently than online influencers or digital-first brands. Instead of chasing volume, you focus on relevance, relationships, and repeat customers who already know your name or are close enough to become regulars.We break down four simple ways to start building your list quickly: Creating a simple, no-pressure signup offer your customers actually want  Placing opt-ins everywhere your audience already interacts with your business Treating email as relationship-building, not performance marketing This is where most people overcomplicate things. But marketing for local business doesn’t need to look like a tech startup funnel. It needs to feel human, consistent, and useful.You’ll also hear real-world examples from service-based businesses like bakers, estheticians, and contractors who use local business strategies to stay top of mind without relying on social media alone. And this is where content marketing becomes practical, not theoretical. Your emails don’t need to be long or polished. They need to be useful, timely, and real.If you’ve been stuck in overthinking mode, this episode connects the dots between simplicity and results. Because copywriting isn’t about sounding perfect, it’s about sounding like yourself so your audience actually trusts what you say.And if you have more questions about email marketing, go listen to Episode #18: The 3 types of emails every small business owner needs, which builds on this foundation and shows you exactly what to send once your list is growing.By the end of this episode, you’ll understand why email marketing for local business is one of the most underused tools for sustainable growth, and how to start using it in a way that actually fits your time, energy, and business model.If you’re ready to stop guessing and start building something that compounds over time, you can book a free call with me to map out your next steps and get your email strategy working properly for your business.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

I know you're feeling the pressure to constantly show up on social media. I get it. For a while, it really was one of the easiest ways to get visibility. But the landscape has changed, and if your entire marketing strategy depends on Instagram, you're missing some critical foundations.In this episode, I break down what actually happens when someone in your community needs the kind of service you offer. Spoiler: they're not scrolling your feed, they're Googling you. And when they land on your website, the words on that page matter more than anything you've ever posted.I walk you through my four-layer marketing framework (yes, I compare it to a cake, a video game, AND a theatre production, it got away from me a little) covering discovery, trust, validation, and conversion. I talk about where social media actually fits in and why it's not where most business owners think it is.In this episode, I cover:Why organic reach has dropped and what that means for your businessThe real path your ideal client takes before they hire youMy four-layer marketing framework and where social media actually belongsThe one thing that's costing most local business owners clients (hint: it's not your posting schedule)A simple exercise you can do right now to test whether your website is doing its jobGrab my Website Copy Audit! This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

You're posting, emailing, showing up, and it still feels like nobody's paying attention to your local business marketing. Before you blame the algorithm or try another tactic, it might be time to look at what your marketing is actually saying.In this episode, I break down the three foundational things every piece of marketing needs to communicate before any of it actually works, whether it's your website, your social media, or your emails.In this episode, I cover:Why narrowing down who you're speaking to makes your marketing land harder (and why talking to everyone means talking to no one)How to articulate the real problem you solve, not just list your servicesWhy every piece of marketing needs a clear, low-friction next stepThe common call-to-action mistakes that are costing you leads (including the dreaded mail app pop-up)If you're not sure if your marketing or website is hitting all these marks, grab my Website Copy Audit. This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Is Your Website Actually Doing Its Job?You're great at what you do, your clients love you, and referrals are coming in. So, why aren't they booking? In this episode, I'm breaking down the three sneaky website gaps that are quietly costing service-based , local business owners money.In this episode, you'll learn:The "who is this for?" gap: why vague, flowery homepage copy is driving warm leads away, and what to say insteadThe "what happens next?" gap: the difference between a call to action that just exists and one that actually convertsThe "why you?" gap: how to position yourself so referrals landing on your website immediately know you're the right personNot sure if your website is doing its job? That's why created the Website Copy Audit. Get a clear, specific breakdown of what's working, what's confusing visitors, and what to change: lindsaysmithcreative.ca/auditThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

If you set up your Google Business Profile and haven't touched it since, this episode is for you.A lot of business owners think of their Google Business Profile as a directory listing. Something you fill out once and forget. But if you're a local business, it's one of the most powerful (and free) visibility tools you have. The catch? It only works if you treat it like the strategy it actually is.In this episode, I'm chatting about  how your Google Business Profile fits into your broader local visibility strategy and why what happens after someone finds you matters just as much as getting found in the first place.What you'll learn in this episode:Why your Google Business Profile is often a customer's very first impression of your business before your website, before social mediaThe local visibility ecosystem: how Google reads your profile as one signal among manyWhat "optimized" actually means (and the high-leverage moves most local businesses skip)Why reviews are a ranking factor, not just a reputation tool and why responding to them matters as much as collecting themThe message consistency gap that causes local businesses to lose leads even when their profile is doing its jobStats mentioned in this episode:Nearly 46% of all Google searches have local intentBusinesses with optimized Google Business Profiles attract up to 70% more visits than those without oneOver 88% of consumers trust online reviews as much as personal recommendationsResources + links:Is your website ready to convert the traffic your Google profile sends it? I can audit your homepage and one other page for maximum conversion: lindsaysmithcreative.ca/auditThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Shannon Vonderach went from wedding photographer to the self-proclaimed Email Queen. The pivot started in 2020 when the world shut down and she discovered what she'd been leaving money on the table by not emailing her list.In this episode, Shannon and I dig into why so many local business owners are sitting on a goldmine of email subscribers and doing absolutely nothing with it and how to change that without overthinking it to death.In this episode:Why you already know what to write (you're just looking at it wrong)The mindset shift that makes email feel less like a corporate broadcast and more like a text to a friendWhat to do when you've ghosted your list for months and why you don't need to apologizeHow to handle unsubscribes without spiralingWhy email gives you something social media never canThe consent question: what you need to know before you start emailing your list (especially in Canada)Connect with Shannon: Instagram: @mrs.vondyThreads @mrs.vondyProgram: The Email ClubFreebie: 10 Ways To Unboring Your EmailsThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

There's a lot of marketing advice floating around on the internet. But most of it wasn't written with small business owners in mind. In this episode, I'm breaking down three common pieces of marketing advice you can safely ignore, and what to focus on instead.In this episode, I'm covering:Funnels. Why complicated sales funnels, tripwires, landing pages, and automations are overkill for most small businesses, and what you actually need instead (hint: a good website and an email list go a long way)Generic social media advice. The pressure to post constantly, show your face, and chase every trend is real but it's not mandatory. I'm sharing a more sustainable, human approach to showing up onlineFollowing the trends. Remember when Reels were everything? Trends come and go, but clear messaging and genuine relationships never go out of styleThe bottom line: Marketing your small business doesn't have to be complicated. In fact, the simpler the better. All you really need is clear messaging, a solid website, and a consistent way for people to hear from you.Want to talk about your website or marketing strategy? Book a free call with Lindsay at LindsaySmithCreative.caThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

In this episode of Market This, I'm sharing four underrated marketing strategies that can bring in new clients without relying solely on social media.These are the kinds of strategies that often get overlooked in online marketing conversations, but they work incredibly well for service-based businesses.Inside this episode, you’ll learn:• How collaborations can help you borrow someone else’s audience • Why vendor events can be powerful for visibility and connections • How networking events lead to unexpected referrals and partnerships • Why referrals are still one of the most effective ways to grow a businessMarketing doesn’t always have to mean being louder online. Sometimes it’s about being in the right rooms, building real relationships, and making it easy for people to recommend you.If social media feels overwhelming right now, this episode will give you a few simple ways to market your business differently.Want help creating a marketing strategy that actually works for your business?You can book a call with me at: 👉 https://www.lindsaysmithcreative.caThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

In this episode of Market This, I'm breaking down the three types of emails every small business owner should be sending:Nurture emails (relationship-building and storytelling)Sales emails (yes, you’re allowed to sell)Newsletters (and why they are not the same thing as email marketing)If you’ve been:Second-guessing your draftsLetting emails sit unsentTrying to cram nurturing, selling, and updates into one messageAvoiding email because it feels overwhelmingThis episode will help you simplify your approach and stop overthinking it.You’ll learn:The real purpose of a nurture email (and why they don’t have to be long)How storytelling makes your emails memorableWhat makes a sales email clear instead of cringeyWhy newsletters are a very specific format (and not always necessary)How to repurpose social media content into email You’re not bad at email. You’ve just been asking one email to do too much.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Are you tired of feeling like you have to show up on Instagram every single day just to get clients?In this episode of Market This, I’m joined by SEO expert Jess Freeman from Jess Creatives, and we’re breaking down what actually matters when it comes to SEO for small business owners.If you’ve ever wondered:Do I really need a blog?What even is a meta description?Is ChatGPT enough for SEO?Does location actually matter?Are Google reviews worth it?This episode is for you.We talk about:Why clear language beats flowery headlines every timeThe biggest SEO mistakes small business owners makeWhy blogging is still relevant (even if you're local)How AI fits into SEO and where it falls shortWhat Google Business Profiles actually doWhy SEO is a long game (and how it gives you freedom from social media pressure)Jess shares practical, doable advice with no tech bro jargon, no overwhelm. Just the stuff that works.SEO might not give you a dopamine hit like a viral reel but it does build a steady machine in the background that keeps working for you.And honestly? That’s the kind of marketing we like around here.Connect with Jess: Instagram: @jesscreativesThreads: @jesscreativesWebsite: jesscreatives.comPodcast: The Ordinary Business PodcastThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Are you wondering if Threads is worth it for your small business?In this episode of Market This, I’m sharing everything about Threads for business. Because the last thing small business owners need is another platform to manage.I'm talking talking about:Why Threads is more of a discovery platform than a promo machineThe real vibe over there (hint: it’s not super business-y)My 30/30/30 rule for how Threads actually worksWhether you need to show up daily for it to pay offHow it’s led to referrals, collaborations, and paid client inquiries for meWhy adding another platform might not be the moveAnd the messaging mistake that could be the real issueRemember: marketing is not about being everywhere. It’s about being clear and consistent where it counts.Check out all my free marketing resources at lindsaysmithcreative.ca And if this episode helped you feel a little less behind, hit subscribe and leave a 5-star review. It helps more small business owners find the show.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

In this episode, I’m walking you through the exact homepage copy framework I use with my copywriting clients so you know what actually belongs on your homepage (and what definitely doesn’t).Your homepage doesn’t need to say everything. Its job is simple: “Hey! You’re in the right place.”Inside this episode, we cover:The 5 essential sections every service-based small business homepage needsHow to write a clear headline that instantly tells people who you help and what you doWhy clever or vague headlines often hurt more than they helpThe Marco Polo method for headlines + subheads (yes, really)What to include in a mini services section without overwhelming visitorsWhy testimonials matter (and how to think about social proof)Simple, non-awkward calls to action that tell people what to do nextI also share real examples for:BookkeepersEstheticiansService-based small business owners who are DIY-ing their websitesIf your homepage feels cluttered, confusing, or just not quite right anymore, this episode will help you simplify, clarify, and stop second-guessing every word.✨ Bonus: If you want a professional set of eyes on your website, you can book a website audit where I’ll review two pages and give you real, actionable feedback.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Most small business owners start their website refresh the same way: “I need a web designer.”But if you don’t have clear messaging, strong positioning, and words that actually connect with your ideal clients, no amount of beautiful design is going to fix that.In this episode, I’m breaking down why copy needs to come before design, especially for small business owners who want their website to actually do its job, not just look nice.I’m sharing a behind-the-scenes look at how big agencies approach websites versus what small businesses actually need, plus the three reasons your words are doing more heavy lifting than you think.In this episode, we cover:Why “design first, copy later” works for big brands but not for small businessesThe three things your website copy must communicate clearly (and quickly)Why your homepage headline has one of the hardest jobs in your entire marketingHow brand tone, messaging, and positioning all live in your wordsWhy a beautiful website with vague language won’t convertHow to think of your website as a communication and marketing tool, not just a digital brochureIf you’re planning a website update, or wondering why your current site isn’t converting, this episode will help you rethink where to start (and save you a lot of frustration).Want help with your website copy?I offer website audits where I review two pages of your site and give you clear, honest feedback on your messaging, brand tone, positioning, and language — so you know exactly what to fix.👉 Learn more at lindsaysmithcreative.ca/auditThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

In this episode of Market This, I’m joined by my friend Kirsten Jordan, a marketing strategist with over 20 years of experience helping business owners cut through the noise and focus on what actually works.We talk about why social media has become so overwhelming, why it’s only one small piece of the marketing puzzle, and what business owners should be focusing on instead, especially if they’re feeling burnt out or frustrated by trying all the things.This is an honest, no-fluff conversation about marketing foundations, messaging clarity, and building a strategy that fits your business (and your capacity).In this episode, we cover:Why marketing and social media are not the same thingThe pressure (and burnout) that comes with social media marketingWhy most marketing problems are really messaging and clarity problemsThe foundational work business owners love to skip (but shouldn’t)SEO, Google search, and how people actually find businessesWhy fast fixes and “overnight results” don’t existWhen paid ads make sense and when they really don’tThe role of trust, relationships, and offline marketingHow to think about marketing as a long-term system, not a trendIf you’ve been feeling like marketing is harder than it should be, this episode will help you zoom out, reset your expectations, and refocus on what truly moves the needle.Connect with Kirsten:Instagram: @kirstenjmarketingWebsite: kirstenjordan.meNewsletter: Field Trip MarketingThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

In this episode of Market This, I’m joined by Kristi Soomer, founder and CEO of Encircled, a Canadian-made slow fashion brand that’s been growing thoughtfully since 2012.Kristi brings a refreshingly honest perspective to entrepreneurship, sustainability, and marketing, especially for small business owners who are tired of the hype and want something more grounded, realistic, and human.We talk about what sustainability actually means (beyond the buzzwords), how her corporate background shaped her business decisions, and the behind-the-scenes realities of running a product-based brand from inventory and cash flow to returns and pop-up shops.If you’re a product-based business owner (or thinking about becoming one), this conversation is full of smart insights and “oh wow, no one talks about that” moments. In this episode, we cover:Kristi’s journey from management consulting to building a slow fashion brandWhat sustainability really looks like and how to spot greenwashingWhat it means to be a Certified B Corp (and why it’s such a rigorous process)Why transparency and brand values matter more than polished perfectionHow Kristi approaches marketing without trying to be everywhere at onceThe realities of entrepreneurship that don’t get glamorized on social mediaThis episode is for you if:You run (or want to run) a product-based businessYou care about values, impact, and building something long-termYou feel pressure to be everywhere online and want a more sustainable marketing approachYou appreciate honest conversations over hustle culture soundbitesConnect with Kristi:Encircled: https://www.encircled.caInstagram & Threads: @encircled_Kristi’s website & coaching: https://kristisoomer.comPodcast: Ecommerce Maven (archived episodes available)This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

In this episode, I’m reflecting on the five marketing lessons that shaped my business this year and the mindset shifts I’m carrying into 2026. Nothing trendy. Nothing complicated. Just the fundamentals that actually move the needle for small business owners.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by marketing, tempted to chase shiny tactics, or stuck winging it and hoping for the best, this one’s for you.In this episode, I talk about:Why consistency beats complexity (even when your brain wants to do everything at once)Why clear messaging matters more than how much content you createHow your offers and services are supposed to evolve as your business growsWhy community and relationships can move your business faster than any marketing tacticWhy you can’t wing it forever and how clarity creates confidenceI also share personal stories from my own business, including what I shelved this year, what I doubled down on, and why having a plan (even a simple one) changes everything.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

If social media feels overwhelming, performative, noisy, or like one more thing you “should” be doing, this episode will feel like a deep exhale. I’m joined by Kat Tepylo Murphy, social media strategist, content coach, and community builder for makers, Main Streeters, and hometown service providers. Kat’s whole mission is to make social media doable, joyful, and effective especially for small business owners who do not want to live on Instagram.We talk about what actually matters on social right now, why trends aren’t everything, how to stop overthinking your content, and the three types of posts every small business owner needs. We also get into burnout, boundaries, creativity, and why all your best ideas show up when you’re walking the dog or taking a shower.If you’ve ever wanted to throw your phone in a river, delete Instagram, or move to the woods, Kat has some very refreshing strategies for you.In this episode, we cover• How to create content that feels enjoyable (instead of forced) • The three core categories of social content every business needs • Why one post is never enough (and why repetition is your friend) • What metrics actually matter for small business owners • How to repurpose content without anyone noticing • When trends help and when to ignore them • How to set boundaries so social media doesn’t take over your life • The personal sharing line and how to choose what you keep privateAbout KatKat is the strategist behind Social Kat Media, helping small-town and local business owners show up online without feeling glued to their phones. She’s here to make marketing feel human, fun, and totally doable.Find her on Instagram at @socialkatmedia and learn more about her membership, The Social With Kat Club.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Today I'm walking you through the marketing red flags I see every single day in the wild. Especially with small, service-based and local businesses. No shame or judgment! Just some loving truth-telling from your favourite copywriter and marketing strategist.In this episode, I cover:The #1 website mistake almost every small business makes (and how to fix it)Why repeating the same message in different ways confuses your audienceHow your website ends up looking like a brochure — and what to do insteadWhy your calls to action matter more than you thinkWhat clear CTA copy looks like (and why “clever” usually hurts conversions)How unclear messaging stops people from ever hiring youWhy showing up only when you're selling is sabotaging your marketingWhat “nurture content” actually means for small businesses✨ Website & Marketing AuditsIf your website feels confusing or messy, I can audit your copy, layout, and user experience so you know exactly what to fix.Learn more: Marketing AuditThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

If you've been thinking about leaving your 9–5 for something that actually feels good to run or you've already started a business but you're still carrying that corporate butt-in-the-seat mindset, this episode is for you. This week, I’m joined by Shannon Russell, former MTV and E! television producer turned business coach, franchise owner, author of Start Your Second Act, and host of the Second Act Success podcast. Her story is so relatable for anyone who’s ever had that “Is this really it?” moment.We talk about:The catalyst that pushed Shannon out of her dream job and into entrepreneurshipWhy researching your business idea matters way more than you thinkHow to figure out if your idea actually has a market (before you build it)The wildly overlooked transferable skills you’re probably forgetting you haveThe biggest mindset shift women need when going from employee → entrepreneurWhy so many women undercharge and how to break the habitRunning a business without showing your face  What Shannon learned from running (and selling) her brick-and-mortar franchiseHow fear shows up in entrepreneurship… and why doing the scary thing anyway changes everythingPLUS: We share a behind-the-scenes peek at the Business Refresh Summit we’re hosting It's a free 4-day experience designed to help small business owners simplify their plans, feel confident going into Q1, and build momentum without the burnout.How to connect with Shannon: Shannon’s website: secondactsuccess.coShannon’s book: Start Your Second ActShannon's podcast: Second Act SuccessJoin the FREE Business Refresh Summit! This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Welcome back to Market This. Today I'm breaking down when it’s time to hire a copywriter and just as importantly, when it’s not.As a copywriter and marketing strategist, I’m walking you through:The signs you’ve officially outgrown your DIY copyWhy good copywriting is more than “making words sound pretty”What actually happens behind the scenes when a copywriter takes overThe emotional side of messaging (yes, it matters!)Why you’re too close to your business to write everything yourselfWhen a copywriter can’t help you yetAnd the difference between refreshing copy vs writing from scratchIf you're feeling stuck, scattered, or unsure what to say anymore… this episode will help you figure out your next step.Not quite sure if you're ready to hire a copywriter? Start with my marketing audit!This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

There’s always going to be a need for promo and sales content but if that’s all you’re doing, you’re probably missing the one thing that actually turns browsers into buyers: nurture content.In this episode, I'm talking about what nurture content really is (and what it’s not), how it builds trust between your visibility and your sales, and why ghosting your audience between promos or sales could be costing you clients.You’ll learn:What nurture content does that promo content can’tHow to write emails people actually reply toWhy storytelling is your most powerful nurture toolThe simple framework for writing nurture emails that connect and convertHow to weave subtle CTAs into your nurture emails without feeling pushyIf you’re ready to build real relationships, and turn your audience into long-term customers, this episode is for you. This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

This week I’m joined by Melissa Litchfield, founder of Litchfield Media, to talk about what you really need to have in place before you hit “publish” on that Facebook or Instagram ad.We’re breaking down:What a paid ad actually is (and why Meta loves your money)Why your website has to convert before you run adsHow to use the Bath & Body Works funnel analogy to understand customer journeysThe tech you absolutely need (hello, tracking pixels and cookies)How to stretch a $300 ad budget and still see resultsAnd why your copy is what does the real sellingMelissa also shares smart ways to retarget warm leads, test ad creative, and know if your ads are working without wasting a ton of time or cash.If you’ve ever thought about running ads but have no idea where to start, this episode is your crash course in doing it the right way.Listen now and learn how to make your ads work so you’re not just paying for clicks, you’re paying for conversions.Connect with Melissa!Instagram: @litchfieldmediaThreads: @litchfieldmediaLinkedIn: Melissa LitchfieldFree ad resource: Proven Pixel PermitThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

So… what is marketing, really?It’s become such a buzzword that it’s almost lost all meaning, especially if you’re a small business owner just trying to get your name out there without losing your mind.In this episode, I’m breaking down what marketing actually means and not in guru-speak or corporate lingo, but in real, human terms. I’m sharing what I learned back in my ad agency days, and how that world translates to what you do as a small business owner wearing all the hats.We’ll talk about:Why social media is just one tiny piece of your marketing puzzleWhat marketing really boils down to (hint: it’s simply how you advertise what you do)Why your website, emails, and even conversations are part of your marketingHow to figure out where your clients are actually coming from and go all in thereWhy you want a copy-led marketing expert If you’ve ever felt like marketing your business is a full-time job you didn’t sign up for, this episode is going to take a huge weight off your shoulders.Grab my Free Marketing Foundations Checklist! This podcast is produced, mixed, and edited by Cardinal StudioThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

You know those networking events or conferences you want to go to but aren’t sure they’re worth the time, money, or small talk? In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly how to make those events part of your marketing strategy all without feeling awkward or salesy.We’ll talk about:How to set a clear intention before you walk in the door (and why that changes everything)What to say when people ask “So, what do you do?" without sounding like a robotThe easiest way to make real connections that turn into referrals or collaborationsHow to follow up without being weird or spammyWhy showing up as a participant (not just an attendee) makes you unforgettablePlus, I share my own hot pink branding moment that got everyone talking.If you’re heading to an event soon, grab my Free Marketing Checklist at to make sure your messaging is clear before you go.Show mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

In this episode of Market This, I’m sharing the three foundational marketing pieces I wish I’d had from day one, because once you get these in place, everything else gets easier.Here’s what we cover:Clear Messaging: What it really means and how to simplify what you say so people instantly get it.Your Ideal Client: How to figure out who you’re actually talking to (hint: it’s not “Sally Salesy”).Market Position: What makes you different and how to lean into it.Whether you’re just starting out or ready to refine your strategy, this episode will help you stop shouting into the void and start marketing with more clarity and confidence.Listen now and grab my free Marketing Checklist mentioned in the episode at lindsaysmithcreative.caShow mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

In this first official episode of Market This, I’m pulling back the curtain on why I decided to rebrand my podcast from Content Magic to Market This, the lessons I learned during an unplanned summer break, and what you can expect moving forward.You’ll hear me share:The real reason I shifted from “content” to “marketing” — and what that means for you as a small business ownerWhy marketing doesn’t have to feel like a chore (or something you just check off your to-do list)What you can expect from the new show format including simple, sustainable marketing strategies you can actually useA candid chat about taking breaks, feeling guilty about it, and what I learned about capacity and seasons in businessIf you’ve ever felt like marketing your business is overwhelming or you’re tired of chasing trends and tactics that don’t stick, this episode is your permission slip to slow down, refocus, and start marketing in a way that feels more human.Links & Resources Mentioned: Free resources for small business owners: lindsaysmithcreative.ca Connect on Instagram: @lindsaysmithcreativeIf you loved this episode: Subscribe, leave a 5-star review, and share it with a fellow small business owner who could use a little marketing clarity today.Show mixed and edited by Cardinal StudioThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Welcome to Market This, the marketing podcast built for real small business owners. Not influencers, not marketing “gurus,” and definitely not big-budget brands. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by conflicting advice or tired of chasing trends that don’t fit your business, I am your new marketing bestie. What You’ll LearnWhy most marketing advice online doesn’t apply to small businessesThe key principle that drives effective marketing (hint: simplicity)How Market This will help you build confidence, consistency, and clarity in your marketingWhy ListenEvery episode delivers:Practical strategies you can implement right awayReal-life stories from small business owners who’ve been thereHonest conversations about what actually works (and what doesn’t)I'm super excited to launch this brand new podcast and can't wait to bring you along for the ride! This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Instagram just isn't performing the way it used to. Between the disappearing reach, the pressure to show up constantly, and the algorithm lottery, a lot of small business owners are wondering if it’s even worth it anymore.And this Thread from Eman Copy Co is what started this whole discussion! In this episode, I’m sharing:Why engagement is down (even for accounts with 100k+ followers)The emotional rollercoaster of being over Instagram even when you used to love itWhat’s actually working in marketing right nowHow to make your business less dependent on any one platformMy favorite alternatives: email marketing, websites, and (surprise!) in-person networkingIf your content is starting to feel like shouting into the void, this episode is your permission slip to shift your strategy without burning it all down.CONNECT WITH ME! Instagram: @lindsaysmithcreativeThreads: @lindsaysmithcreativeWebsite: lindsaysmithcreative.caFreebie: No-Stress 30 Day Content PlannerIf You Liked This Episode:Leave a review (it helps more than you know!)Subscribe so you never miss a spicy takeShow mixed and edited by: Cardinal StudioThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Feeling overwhelmed by the idea of living more sustainably? You’re not alone.But, what if I told you that you don’t have to overhaul your entire life to make a difference? In this inspiring (and delightfully practical) episode of Content Magic, I chat with Sarah Robertson-Barnes, founder of Sustainable in the Suburbs and host of the podcast of the same name. Sarah shares how small, joyful shifts in your daily habits can add up to powerful climate action — no perfection required!We cover: Why sustainable living doesn’t have to mean giving up everything you loveHow to identify your unique path to climate action (hint: it starts with what brings you joy!)Simple swaps that save money and reduce waste (bye-bye, paper towels and plastic wrap!)How to get started without the overwhelm — even if your partner isn’t on boardThe surprising power of community (yes, sharing your herbs totally counts)If you’ve ever thought, “Where do I even begin?” this conversation will leave you feeling empowered to start where you are.Links + Resources:🌿 Listen to Sarah’s podcast: Sustainable in the Suburbs 🌿 Check out her free Household Waste Audit + other digital resources: Sustainable in the Suburbs Shop 🌿 Follow Sarah on Instagram and Threads🎧 Related episode: Are You Overwhelmed by Climate Action? Start Here If You Liked This Episode:Leave a review (it helps more than you know!)Subscribe so you never miss a spicy takeShare this with a friend who’s learning to do content their own wayShow mixed and edited by: Cardinal StudioThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Summer brings sunshine, chaos, and... two kids home full time. In this episode of Content Magic, I’m walking you through exactly how I’m keeping my marketing strategy light, flexible, and totally doable this summer.If you’re a small business owner wondering how to balance marketing and real life without burning out, this one’s for you.In this episode, I’m sharing:My “just enough” marketing plan for the summer monthsWhy I’m focusing on long-form content like podcasts and blog postsHow I batch my emails to feel like I have my life together (even when I don’t)Why I’m letting go of Instagram guilt—and what I’m doing insteadThe unexpected platform that’s giving me life right now (hint: Threads)A real-life reminder to adjust your strategy based on your actual lifePlus, I talk about:What I’m not doing (no TikTok, no big launches, no pressure)How I repurpose my “big idea” content into social media bitesThe importance of setting realistic expectations for your season of lifeWhether you’ve got toddlers or travel plans, this episode will help you simplify your marketing—without ghosting your audience or your business goals.CONNECT WITH ME! Instagram: @lindsaysmithcreativeThreads: @lindsaysmithcreativeWebsite: lindsaysmithcreative.caFreebie: No-Stress 30 Day Content PlannerIf You Liked This Episode:Leave a review (it helps more than you know!)Subscribe so you never miss a spicy takeShare this with a friend who’s learning to do content their own way!Show mixed and edited by: Cardinal StudioThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

In this episode of Content Magic, I’m joined by registered dietitian Lindsay Martens, who’s on a mission to be a “compassionate disruptor” in the wellness world. And, trust me, she delivers. We talk about food noise: the mental and emotional chatter that consumes way too much brain space (you know, like debating carbs at midnight or feeling guilty after a snack).Lindsay shares:Why willpower isn’t the problem (and what really is)The difference between a dietitian and a nutritionistWhy your saved “wellness” reels might actually be causing harmWhat to do when you feel stuck in a loop of food rules, guilt, and late-night snackingWhy it’s okay to only eat three vegetables (yes, really)We also talk about her brilliant Quiet the Food Noise quiz, which helps you identify your biggest trigger and what to do about it.This one is a must-listen for anyone tired of trying to follow influencer nutrition advice that’s more noise than help.CONNECT WITH LINDSAY! Instagram: @lindsaymartensnutritionWebsite: lindsaymartensnutrition.comResource: Quiet the Food Noise QuizCONNECT WITH ME! Instagram: @lindsaysmithcreativeThreads: @lindsaysmithcreativeWebsite: lindsaysmithrcreative.caResource: ChatGPT Cheat Sheet for Social MediaShow mixed and edited by: Cardinal StudioThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

In this episode of Content Magic, I'm chatting with skincare creator and self-care advocate Rebecca from The Detour Co. What starts as a conversation about natural skincare turns into a much deeper chat about what it means to take care of yourself—especially when you're a one-woman business, a mom, or both.We talk about:Why Rebecca shifted from ingredient-focused marketing to lifestyle storytellingHow skincare rituals became a form of self-trust and confidenceThe transition from home-based business to a professional studioNavigating summer as a small business-owning parent (and bracing for routine chaos)Why simple, slow, real-time content resonates more than hyper-edited reelsWhether you're into skincare or just need a reminder that you deserve the clean towel, this episode will inspire you to slow down, show up for yourself, and let self-care become part of your business strategy.Connect with Rebecca: Website: https://thedetourco.com Instagram: @thedetourcomuskokaConnect with me: Instagram: @lindsaysmithcreativeThreads: @lindsaysmithcreativeWebsite: lindsaysmithcreative.caFreebie: No-Stress 30 Day Content PlannerIf You Liked This Episode:Leave a review (it helps more than you know!)Subscribe so you never miss a spicy takeShare this with a friend who’s learning to do content their own way!Show mixed and edited by: Cardinal StudioThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

In this deeply personal and totally unfiltered episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on what it’s really like to run a business with ADHD. Spoiler: it’s not all chaos. But it’s definitely not all calm either.From idea overload to sensory overload, I’m sharing the highs, the struggles, and the hilarious contradictions of being a creative entrepreneur with ADHD. You’ll hear how I structure my week (kind of), the tools I use to stay on track , and why I’ve stopped calling ADHD my superpower.Inside this episode:Why storytelling works so well for ADHD brainsThe dopamine trap of content creationReal systems I’m using to stay organized (even when I don’t want to)What’s working, what’s not, and what I’m still figuring outWhy your content strategy shouldn’t be one-size-fits-allWhether you’re neurodivergent or just feel pulled in a million directions, this episode is your permission slip to do things your way and still succeed.CONNECT WITH ME! Instagram: @lindsaysmithcreativeThreads: @lindsaysmithcreativeWebsite: lindsaysmithcreative.caFreebie: No-Stress 30 Day Content PlannerIf You Liked This Episode:Leave a review (it helps more than you know!)Subscribe so you never miss a spicy takeShare this with a friend who’s learning to do content their own wayShow mixed and edited by: Cardinal StudioThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

If you're a small business owner and the word “content” instantly makes you think of Instagram you might be missing the full picture.In this episode, I'm breaking down the difference between content, social media, and marketing—and why they're not interchangeable. You'll learn:Why "marketing" is the real umbrella, and "content" is just one spoke on the wheelThe difference between short-form and long-form content—and how to pick what works for youOther marketing tactics that might work better for your business than social mediaWhy you don’t have to be on Instagram (or film videos) to grow your businessWhat a complete, stress-free marketing strategy might actually look likeIf you’re feeling overwhelmed by content creation or burnt out from trying to be everywhere, this episode will give you permission to simplify and realign your strategy.CONNECT WITH ME! Instagram: @lindsaysmithcreativeThreads: @lindsaysmithcreativeWebsite: lindsaysmithcreative.caFreebie: ChatGPT Cheat Sheet for Social MediaShow mixed and edited by: Cardinal StudioIf You Liked This Episode:Leave a review (it helps more than you know!)Subscribe so you never miss a spicy takeShare this with a friend who’s learning to do content their own wayThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Is your content feeling forced, inconsistent, or straight-up exhausting? It might not be a strategy issue. It might be your nervous system. In this episode of Content Magic, I’m joined by my friend Ashlee Livingstone, a life alignment coach and breathwork facilitator, to talk about the real reason your content might feel out of sync.We cover:How nervous system dysregulation shows up in your content creation habitsSimple ways to reset before you write, post, or show up onlineWhy alignment matters more than algorithmsHow to stay visible without burning out (especially if you're not a "B-roll" girl)What future-you knows that current-you is forgettingThis conversation is full of “ah-ha” moments, grounded tools, and a few solid laughs. Whether you’re in content burnout or just feeling a bit disconnected from your message, this one’s for you. Links + ResourcesFollow Ashlee on Instagram: @ashlee.livingstoneLearn more about her Mental Fitness Club or book a Life Alignment Session at ashleelivingstone.comGrab your FREE No-Stress Content Planner: lindsaysmithcreative.ca/magicDon't forget to subscribe and leave a review! Show mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.This episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.

Ever stared at your screen with zero clue what to post next? You’re not alone. And this episode is for you.In today’s solo episode, I'm sharing five unconventional ways to spark creativity and beat content block without forcing it. Forget the hustle-heavy “30 reels in 30 days” advice. These hacks are designed to help you reconnect with your creativity, your nervous system, and your actual life (remember that?).You’ll learn:Why your best content ideas aren’t born at your deskHow movement and creativity (even with Play-Doh!) can help you find your flowWhy your spice drawer might hold the key to a breakthroughHow to spot the signs your nervous system needs a resetThe surprising reason fiction books belong in your business toolkitYour Content Challenge This Week: Leave the house. Take a break. Move your body. Do something creative just because. Regulate your nervous system. Then come back to your content with fresh eyes—and likely, a better idea.Don't forget to grab your free No-Stress 30-day Content Planner! If You Liked This Episode:Leave a review (it helps more than you know!)Subscribe so you never miss a spicy takeShare this with a friend who’s learning to do content their own wayShow mixed and edited by: Cardinal StudioThis episode was mixed and edited by Cardinal Studio.