Marketing Ninja Unleashed

This episode is all about showing up - even when it's uncomfortable. I talk about why perfection is overrated and how chasing it quietly erodes your confidence, how I finally got over myself and started building my personal brand as a self-confessed introvert, and why your customers' words will always be more powerful than yours. Plus, how to use the data you already have in your business to make your marketing sharper - with real examples for professional services and ecommerce.

I met Kam Samji at his own networking group, FindABiz in Kirby Muxloe - which I'm now a member of. And the more I've got to know Kam around that table, the more I've appreciated not just what he does, but how he does it. Kam has over 25 years of experience dealing with Wills, Powers of Attorney and Probate work - initially in the traditional private sector and now through his own business, KRS Estate Planning. He set up the business with one clear aim: to make estate planning straightforward and accessible for individuals and families across Leicester and Leicestershire. It's an area a lot of people put off thinking about and Kam is the person who makes those conversations feel a lot less daunting. In this episode, Kam talks about something I think every business owner needs to hear - how to handle difficult conversations, what good networking really looks like and the values that drive everything he does.   Kam can be found here: https://www.krsep.co.uk/  

Season 5 is here - and it's the biggest one yet. Two cameras, five guests, and me fully on screen for the first time, which is nerve-wracking in a way I talk about honestly in this episode. We also cover the difference between branding, brand strategy and marketing strategy - because they really aren't the same thing - and I share one of the most useful exercises you can do for your business right now: finding your most profitable customer.

We're a tiny bit delayed so episode 1 will be with you on the 3rd July!

In this final episode of Season 4, I take a step back to reflect on some of the biggest themes that have come up throughout the season - from brand strategy and leadership to personal growth and resilience.   I share why brand strategy is essential for every business (not just the big ones), how self-awareness can transform the way you lead and communicate with your team, and a more personal perspective on redundancy - why it doesn't define you, and how it can often become a turning point for something better.   I also want to say a huge thank you to this season's incredible guests - Shan, Anita and Derek - for sharing their insights and experiences.   Season 5 will be back on June 26th - and I can't wait to share what's next.   In the meantime, connect with me by email [email protected] On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yaystory/ Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reena---patel/ youTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YouAndYourStoryLTD

Today's episode brings together a few things that have shifted in marketing over time, how brands are more cautious than they used to be but it is still ok to show your brand personality, be cheeky and be bold if that's who you are. We talk about the difference between brand strategy and marketing strategy and finally we talk about learning and how the CIM has helped me over the years. Plus there's a little announcement about something new for me!

In this episode, we're speaking to Derek Thomas - Author, Entrepreneur, Business Owner, Mentor & Coach. I talk to Derek about his story, his 'Why' and his inspiration for writing his latest book - Classroom to Climb. In his book, Derek doesn't just share his story, he gives you the exact frameworks, strategies, and mindset shifts he used to transform every area of his life. From financial independence to physical vitality to emotional presence, this is a complete blueprint for reinvention. Plus, 100% of book profits support orphans at Stella Maris Primary School, so every purchase creates real change for children in need. Here's the link to the book if you'd like to have a read and support the school: https://www.worldofbooks.com/en-gb/products/from-classroom-to-the-climb-lessons-of-resilience-and-growth-book-thomas-derek-9781919360416   If you want to get in touch with Derek, follow him on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/creatinglifechoices/ or visit his website here: https://www.derek-thomas.co.uk/ And sign up to his newsletter on Linked In here: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-climb-blueprint-7418942338967957504/  

This episode is a little different - and a lot more personal.   In this special episode, Reena shares her own experience of being made redundant not once, but twice, and the emotional impact it had on her confidence, decision making and sense of self.   If you're currently going through redundancy, or navigating uncertainty in your career, this episode is a reminder that it's not the end - it's the start of a new chapter.   You'll take away:   How to rebuild confidence after a setback The importance of self awareness How to move forward with clarity and confidence   If you want to book in a call with me, use this link:- https://calendly.com/hello-yaystory/30min  

In this episode, I'm joined by Anita Cavin, who shares her journey into the travel industry and how turning her passion into a business has helped her grow both personally and professionally.   Anita breaks down what network marketing really is - and challenges some of the misconceptions around it - while explaining how others can get involved in building their own travel business. She also talks about how she promotes her services, how the experience has built her confidence, and why having a strong support network or "cheerleading squad" makes all the difference.   If you're curious about starting something new, building confidence or exploring opportunities in the travel space, this episode is full of honest insights and inspiration.   To connect with Anita or find out more: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrsacavin Email:[email protected] Phone: 07827 298010  

In this episode, Reena explores what strong brands do differently, using Coca-Cola, Apple and Experian as examples of companies with clear purpose and positioning. She also discusses why emotional self-awareness and understanding personality types can improve B2B marketing, and how marketers can use the right data to gain meaningful insights as well explaining why the word 'Bab' brings back some funny memories! Get in touch with Reena: [email protected]

In this episode, I'm going back to one of the most overlooked and most powerful parts of marketing: your target audience.   We talk about why getting clear on who you're really speaking to changes everything - from your tone of voice to your content strategy - and how the wrong tone can quietly damage trust. I also dive into why jumping on every social media trend isn't a strategy, and how constantly copying others can pull you away from your brand foundations.   Finally, we explore what actually makes a brand strong and memorable - and why the best brand-building always starts with a story.   If you're ready to stop chasing noise and start building something consistent, clear and long term, this episode is for you.4

In this episode, I reflect on personal growth, confidence and what it really takes to step outside your comfort zone as a business owner. I share how overcoming nerves at networking events and saying yes to bigger opportunities has shaped my mindset and leadership style.   We also explore why creating memorable experiences is essential for service businesses, how strong events build lasting brand connection, and why nurturing your audience properly can turn conversations into long term relationships.   If you're ready to grow your confidence, strengthen your customer journey and build a brand people won't forget, this episode is for you.

In this episode  I'm joined by Shan Patel - data specialist for a practical conversation about how businesses can use data properly in their marketing.   We explore why data quality matters more than quantity, how AI is transforming the way we interpret and use marketing data, and the ongoing debate between paid ads and organic reach. We also dive into measuring ROI, what business owners should actually be tracking, and how tools like Google Analytics can help you move from guessing to informed decision-making.   If you've ever felt overwhelmed by dashboards, confused by metrics, or unsure whether your marketing is truly working, this episode will help you cut through the noise and focus on what really matters.  

Season 4 is here and in this opening episode, we're talking about why brand strategy is the foundation of sustainable growth.   We're talking about the lessons learned from 'The Secret Sauce' by Sam Smith and we reflect on how marketing has evolved from traditional to digital to the AI era but how the fundamentals still remain the same.   Plus we share the next big steps for Marketing Ninja Unleashed...   Link to the book: https://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/The-Secret-Sauce-by-Sam-Smith/9781781337868?srsltid=AfmBOoqsKVqXEiplk9Ks7f_Vp1-QWNTnkVsvFc4vCfd_3AOLuyD25qnX   Link to YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyT_6GkTzAGFgdWr9O1R7-Q

It's the final episode of Season 3 of Marketing Ninja Unleashed - and what a year it's been! In this episode, I'm wrapping up 2025 with some honest reflections, practical advice, and a look ahead to what 2026 could bring for your business.   We're talking: How to plan meaningful, non-cliché New Year marketing Why I'm already preparing Valentine's & Mother's Day campaigns for e-commerce clients New Year's resolutions every business should consider The surprising success of my most popular (and vulnerable) video this year A Christmas message from me - and a big thank you to all our guests and supporters Plus a quick look back at my highlights from 2025!   A perfect episode for business owners who want to finish the year strong and step into 2026 with clarity, intention and confidence.

In this episode, I sit down with Kieron Edwards to talk about why success in business isn't just about growth - it's about doing things properly. We dive into why quality always beats quantity, how to build a business that lasts, and the importance of looking after yourself along the way. If you're looking to build your dream home or extend your property by ethical builders - get in touch with Kieron by visiting his website: https://kieronedwards.co.uk/ or giving him a call on 07525 437 016.

In this episode of Marketing Ninja Unleashed, I'm diving into the mindset behind running a business - the part no one sees but every business owner feels. I share how the book The Secret Sauce helped me shift my thinking, the signs of overwhelm you should never ignore, and why storytelling is the biggest competitive advantage family businesses have. If you want clarity, confidence and connection in your marketing, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Marketing Ninja Unleashed, I sit down with Kam Samji who is the founder of KRS Estate Planning and FindABiz Networking in Kirby Muxloe.   Kam recently moved from a serviced office to a street-level location, and Kam reminds us that great marketing isn't just about visibility - it's about connection, trust, and being part of your community.   If you haven't sorted out your Will yet - get in touch with Kam at https://www.krsep.co.uk/ and if you're interested in visiting the Kirby Muxloe networking group (for FREE) - register your details here: https://findabiznetworking.com/groups/kirby-muxloe/

In this episode, I'm diving into what growth really means - for your brand and for you. I'll be sharing how to measure brand awareness in a way that actually drives long-term success, what small businesses can learn from the rise in mergers and acquisitions, and how dealing with redundancy helped me build resilience both personally and professionally. Plus, I'll explore one of my favourite quotes from Vinh Giang - "You're a direct reflection of the five people you spend the most time with" - and why surrounding yourself with the right people matters more than ever. It's all about growth, mindset, and building brands that last.

In this episode, I'm interviewing Annie Rea - Business Owner and Physiotherapist at Natural Elements Physiotherapy in Groby and Loughborough and we talk about the constraints that physios are facing with marketing online plus the regulations that are coming in to protect industries offering advice.   You can reach Annie and her team through her website: https://www.thenaturalelements.co.uk/ or by calling 0116 367 6472

In this episode of Marketing Ninja Unleashed, I'm reflecting on why connection matters more than ever - both in marketing and in business.   I talk about how running events helps brands show they care, why identifying the right audience is the foundation of every great campaign, and how to get the most from your Black Friday efforts (hint: it's all about the follow-up).   Plus, I share practical Christmas campaign ideas for professional service businesses looking to build stronger relationships and end the year on a high.

In this episode we talk to Séan Smith from Infosmith about AI readiness in the data world, the steps businesses should be taking to be AI ready and how objectives are so important when it comes to planning your data. Y ou can contact Séan from Infosmith by emailing Séan at [email protected] or visit https://infosmith.co.uk or connecting on Linked In:  https://www.linkedin.com/company/infosmith or Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Infosmith.co.uk

In this episode, I talk about how marketing isn't just about social media,  ads, emails, or the fancy graphics - it's about how you make people feel. I discussed how I overcame my nerves at my recent presentation and created a song using Suno https://suno.com/home I also saw first hand how the show we saw in Dubai used all the senses to make it unforgettable and how customer service is also a huge part of your marketing!

In this episode, I'm joined by Ed Cooper - Business & Executive Coach | Leadership Development Expert, NED and Charity Trustee to talk about all things business growth and a business owner's mindset. We dive into how business owners can step back from the day-to-day, create the right systems for growth, and lead with clarity. It's an inspiring and practical conversation for anyone looking to grow their business without burning out. I f you would like to connect with Ed, you can connect on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edcoopercoach/ or visit his website here: https://www.lifesworkconsulting.com/   Resources: Proft First by Mike Michalowicz - https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/profit-first-mike-michalowicz/400a882cfa85766b?ean=9780735214149&next=t  

In this episode, I'm diving into the 80-20 rule - how letting go of perfection helps you actually get things done. I'll share how learning to think on my feet has made me a stronger planner and decision-maker, even as someone who loves structure. And I'm also talking about why early-career marketers need to be careful if they're not reporting into another marketer - because that's when roles can easily blur, and expectations can get messy.   It's an honest, practical episode about progress, confidence, and protecting your value as a marketer.

In this episode of Marketing Ninja Unleashed, I sit down with my very first guest of Season 3 - my husband, Shan Patel.   Shan is Head of Product at Ometis (previously Tahola), a data and Snowflake expert, and someone who knows how to turn numbers into insights that actually drive decisions. We talk about where businesses should start with data, the biggest mistakes they make, and why keeping it simple is often the smartest move.   It's a mix of data, storytelling, and a little bit of fun - I hope you enjoy this one as much as we did recording.   Contact Shan for your data needs at [email protected] or find out more about what they do on their website: https://ometis.co.uk/

We're back after an exciting summer and in this episode I'm sharing three powerful lessons that my experiences over the summer reminded  me of: Why the best brands don't just sell products - they help people build memories. Why growth only happens when you step outside your comfort zone. And why events still matter in a digital-first world. Marketing Ninja Unleashed is back - and it's all about building marketing that connects, lasts, and actually works.  

It's the final episode of Season 2 of Marketing Ninja Unleashed! In this episode, I'm diving into: The power of engaging all five senses in your marketing, Why start-ups need to prioritise systems and processes from day one - and how mapping the customer journey (from your perspective AND theirs) makes growth easier. How to avoid common pitfalls with website agencies And why creating this podcast has been such a rewarding journey over two seasons Marketing isn't just about tools or tactics. It's about people, their senses, and their choices. Build your marketing around that, and you'll always be ahead.

In this episode of Marketing Ninja Unleashed, I share how I've been getting better at networking as an introvert, why branded merchandise still matters in 2025, and how to make it work on a budget. I'll also break down paid ads on Meta - and explain how not all agencies are created equal, including why I do things differently at You and Your Story.  

In this episode of Marketing Ninja Unleashed, Reena dives into the future of marketing with AI-driven personalisation - including what autonomous agents could mean for your business - and why it's the smallest, most thoughtful touches that create the biggest impact.   We'll explore how micro-influencers and even meme marketing can work for brands of all sizes, and tackle one of the trickiest topics for business owners: pricing your products or services in a way that works for both you and your customers.

This episode covers four things every small business and marketing team needs to get their heads around right now including how you can implement: How you can implement UGC without blowing your budget Are Google Ads still worth it in the AI era? GEO is it trying to replace SEO? And we're going back to basics with the brand proposition - what it is, why you need it and how you can do it.

In this episode, we break down one of the most over-complicated buzzwords in digital marketing: programmatic advertising - what it really means and how it can actually help your business   We also dive into personalisation in advertising: how to tailor your messaging in ways that actually work on platforms like Meta and Google, without sounding robotic or generic.   And finally - a powerful reminder that no marketing strategy works unless you know yourself first. We discuss why self-awareness is the real superpower for founders, marketers, and brand-builders alike.   Plus we want to know what ads you're hearing, email us on [email protected] to let us know what ads you heard!

In this episode, we dive into what it really takes to build a brand that's more than just a moment. Because it's easy to chase trends and viral campaigns - but the businesses that stand the test of time? They're the ones built with purpose, consistency, and real connection. We're talking about sustainability in marketing, how to use customer behaviour data to create smarter, more personalised journeys, what a high-converting abandoned cart flow actually looks like. And why short-term noise never beats long-term strategy! Plus here's the link to see my notes on the perfect abandoned cart series: https://yaystory.com/your-abandoned-cart-series

In today's episode, we're focussing on your customer's needs and covering what a lead magnet is and you can create one that works, why Maslow's hierarchy of needs is more relevant now than ever before and why a viral campaign might sound attractive but shouldn't be your ultimate aim. Plus I highlight how a McDonalds radio ad has gone back to basics and is focusing on one for the 4Ps of marketing.   Here's the link to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs: https://yaystory.com/maslows-hierarchy-of-needs

We're back! In this season opener, Reena dives into three must-know marketing foundations:   Why emotion drives buying decisions - and how to use that insight in your messaging How your internal culture shapes your external brand The importance of collecting data (and how to do it compliantly)   A practical, no-fluff episode to get your marketing mindset back on track.  

Today's episode is the last of Season 1 and covers making Google Ads work for service-based businesses, the difference between brand building and lead generation and why internal communication is really important.   Plus I talk about why having a member of your target audience on your team is a game changer!

In this episode we're sharing why it's so important that Reena retained her Chartered Marketer Status for the third year running, how introverts can control the narrative in a room of loud voices, a brave new ad from Puma and why including your staff in your marketing matters more than you think, plus some great examples of companies doing it well. Link to Staff led marketing examples: https://yaystory.com/staff-led-marketing

Today's episode is all about how to have fun with AI in marketing, using AI to improve your customer journey and how you can use emotion to sell your products and services. Here's some that you can use Chatgpt, great for general research, brainstorming, copywriting drafts https://openai.com/index/chatgpt/ Perplexity, good for deep research into customers  https://www.perplexity.ai/ Midjourney, image creation - this is getting better but is not perfect https://www.midjourney.com/ Suno - have fun with creating music this one, I made a song about me, it cracked me up! https://suno.com/home Plus I'm talking to a special guest in this episode! Thank you Jay Nandha for 'volunteering' when I put you on the spot!

Episode 5 covers some of the most common mistakes people make when it comes to storytelling, why your Google Business listing is absolutely crucial and how different personality types can help you succeed in your marketing career and B2B sales. Plus, I explain why Fresh Eyes are so important. Link to Insights Discovery: https://www.insights.com/products/insights-discovery/

This episode explains the podcast name and gives insight into Reena, her story and her background as well as an "interesting" underground ad and some tips to help you work out who your ideal customer is! Links to ad: https://yaystory.com/when-advertising-goes-wrong

This episode covers why continuing to learn in marketing is so important and why I'm a member of the Chartered institute of Marketing. How perfection could be stopping you from getting things done and the secrets to personal branding without being in front of a camera! Here's the link to the video I mention in this episode: https://youtube.com/shorts/-pIOVYQ4qGo?feature=share Drop me a message on [email protected] and let me know your personal branding challenges

In this episode we cover what networking is all about and how you can get the most from it, how you can spot a sales pitch disguised as a training event, what metrics you should be measuring as a business and the most important piece of data you need to have. Email me with your best (or worst) networking moments on [email protected]

In this episode, we're exploring why introverts make great marketers, the tips Reena gave away on the Watkin sofa, why customer insight and automated email are incredibly important and how you can build your own email welcome series to create more loyal customers! Link to download guide: https://yaystory.com/email-cheat-sheet   Link to Christopher Watkin Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@christopherwatkin  

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