The Making Marketing Simple Podcast

Tempted to rebrand because you feel stuck in your business? Pause right there. This episode breaks down why you probably don’t need a new logo — and what you actually need instead if you want your brand to connect, convert, and feel like YOU. Inside this episode: ✨ The difference between branding vs brand strategy ✨ Why rebranding can be a sexy distraction ✨ How to reconnect to your message + voice ✨ Real talk from my own brand evolution 🖤 Want a brand that sounds, sells, and feels like YOU? Check out my 1:1 coaching or DM me on Instagram to chat it through. 🎧 Loved this? - Follow the pod - Share to stories + tag me @rachmcquade - Send to a biz friend who’s tempted to rebrand (again 🙃)

In this episode of Rebel With a Strategy, we’re ditching the “grow fast or fail” myth and talking about the beauty (and power) of slow, intentional growth. If you’ve ever felt like you’re falling behind because you’re not hitting six figures in six months or going viral overnight — this one’s for you. I’m diving into why fast growth isn’t always better, what slow growth really looks like, and how to actually stay grounded when it feels like everyone else is sprinting. I’ll share: - The hidden pitfalls of chasing fast results (burnout, shaky systems, regret — yep, I’ve been there). - What sustainable growth really looks like for creative business women. - Why clarity, sustainability, and trust are the cornerstones of the long game. - My own story of slow growth as a coach, creative, and mum. ✨ Action for you: Journal on these 3 prompts this week — - What’s my actual 6–12 month goal (not the one I think I should have)? - Where can I slow down to go deeper? - What’s one way I can measure growth beyond money this month? Links & Resources: - Check out my current coaching offers → rachaelmcquade.co.uk - Come hang out with me on Instagram → @rachmcquade If this episode gave you that much-needed exhale, tag me in your stories! I love seeing where you’re tuning in from and what your biggest takeaways are.

If you’re constantly posting but bookings are slow, this episode is for you. We’re talking about the content trap — where you’re doing “all the things” online, but your strategy isn’t actually working. I’ll break down why more content doesn’t always equal more clients — and what to focus on instead. Inside this episode: ✨ The difference between posting + marketing ✨ Why your content might not be converting ✨ 3 essentials of high-converting content ✨ A simple weekly strategy to save your sanity + boost results ⚡ Want a content strategy that converts? Check out AMPLIFY or DM me [@yourhandle] to chat about working together. 🎧 Loved it? Hit follow Share to stories & tag me Tell a fellow creative who's stuck in the scroll

Stuck on who you’re actually speaking to in your content? This episode flips the “ideal client” rulebook on its head. We’re talking about why old-school IC work often falls flat — and what to do instead if you want messaging that connects, converts, and actually feels like you. Inside this episode: ✨ Why your IC might be holding you back ✨ What to focus on instead of demographics ✨ The 3-part process to find your real client voice ✨ How to speak to your people in a way that lands 🔥 Want to turn lurkers into clients? DM me [@rachmcquade] or visit www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk for coaching support. 🎧 Loved it? Hit follow Share to stories & tag me DM me what clicked for you

If your content is good but your bookings are low… it’s probably not a visibility problem. It’s an offer problem. In this episode, I’m walking you through the 4 key elements of an offer that actually sells — and sharing the behind-the-scenes of how I built mine. If you’ve been hearing crickets, stuck tweaking your prices, or wondering why people aren’t biting — this one’s for you. Inside this episode: ✨ Why most offers don’t convert (and how to fix it) ✨ The 4-part framework for building irresistible offers ✨ Real talk on refining, repositioning, and raising your prices ✨ BTS of how I built ROCKSTAR & AMPLIFY 🔥 Want help building your own hell-yes offers? Check out my 1:1 coaching programmes or DM me at [@rachmcquade]. 🎧 Loved the episode? Hit follow Share it with a biz bestie Tag me on Instagram and let me know what landed!

Building a business while juggling motherhood, mental load, and mid-life shifts? You’re not alone — and you’re not doing it wrong. In this episode, we’re talking about what it really looks like to run a creative business in a full, beautiful, messy season of life. From redefining success and simplifying strategy to letting go of pressure and building something sustainable, this one’s for you if you’re craving permission to do things your way — even when it’s not polished. Inside this episode: ✨ The myth of perfect balance ✨ What success might look like in this season ✨ Strategy tweaks to support your real life ✨ A reminder that you don’t need to have it all figured out ❤️ Ready for business strategy that meets you where you’re at? DM me or visit [www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk] to explore 1:1 coaching options that honour your version of success. 🎧 Enjoyed this one? Hit follow Share to stories & tag me [@rachmcquade] Send to a fellow rebel juggling it all

Let’s throw out the rulebook, shall we? In this episode, I’m sharing 5 rebellious marketing strategies that break the ‘standard’ advice and actually work — especially for creative business owners who want to sell without shouting, post with purpose, and grow in their own damn way. These are the moves I swear by (and teach inside my coaching containers) to help clients go from burnt out and invisible to booked, bold, and totally aligned. In this episode: ✨ Why traditional marketing advice isn’t made for creatives ✨ 5 rule-breaking strategies that feel good and get results ✨ How to make marketing easier, more human, and way more effective ✨ Why selling through story > selling through scripts 🔥 Want a marketing strategy that actually fits YOU? DM me or head to [rachaelmcquade.co.uk] to chat about 1:1 coaching options. 🎧 Loved this episode? Hit follow Share to stories + tag me [@rachmcquade] Send to a rebel bestie who needs this vibe

Sick of content that feels forced, trends that feel cringe, and visibility advice that seems made for influencers, not creative business owners? Same. In this episode, I’m breaking down what visibility actually means — and how to make it feel more like self-expression than self-promotion. We’ll walk through my 3-part framework to help you clarify your message, connect with your audience, and captivate without burning out. Inside this episode: ✨ Why traditional visibility advice doesn’t work ✨ The real reason your content isn’t converting ✨ The Clarify → Connect → Captivate method ✨ How to make showing up feel natural (even if you’ve been hiding) 💥 Want a visibility strategy that actually works for you? AMPLIFY is my 3-month 1:1 visibility incubator for creative women ready to be seen, sought after, and booked. [www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/amplify] 🎧 Loved it? Follow + leave a review Share to stories & tag me [@rachmcquade] DM me your fave takeaway 💬

Forget hustle culture and rigid routines — this episode is all about building a business that fits you. Your energy. Your season of life. Your version of success. We’re redefining what it really means to be the CEO of your business — not the corporate kind, but the kind that supports your freedom, flow, and big vision. I’ll walk you through my 4-part process for creating a business that works with your life, not against it, and the mindset shifts you’ll need to make it stick. In this episode: ✨ What ‘CEO energy’ really means ✨ The 4 foundations of a YOU-shaped business ✨ Beliefs to ditch if you want a business that feels good ✨ A journaling prompt to help you realign your vision After listening to this episode, I want you to ask yourself: If I could build my business from scratch today — what would stay, what would go, and what would change? 💥 Ready to step into your CEO era? My 6-month 1:1 programme, ROCKSTAR, is for creative women ready to grow in their own way — with bold strategy and full alignment. [www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/rockstar] 🎧 Loved this episode? Hit follow & share it with a fellow rebel Don't forget to also tag me on Instagram [@rachmcquade] so I can hype you up

You’ve got the strategy. You’ve got the ideas. But if your energy is running on fumes, your brand will be too. In this episode, we’re diving into the real difference between building your business from rockstar energy — that confident, magnetic, grounded space — versus building from burnout energy — the frantic, stressed, reactive place that leads to resentment, low visibility, and full-on “I want to burn it all down” vibes. If you’re feeling stuck, tired, or disconnected from your brand lately, this is your permission slip to reset. Inside this episode: ⚡️ How to tell what energy you’re building your brand in ⚡️ 4 practical ways to shift from burnout back into your CEO energy ⚡️ The truth about creative capacity and why “more content” isn’t the answer ⚡️ Why rest, clarity and strategy go hand-in-hand (especially if you’re the face of your brand) ✨ Ready to shift your brand energy for good? Check out ROCKSTAR — my 6-month 1:1 container for creative business owners ready to lead loud and grow with serious clarity, confidence and momentum https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/rockstar ✨ Share your takeaways on IG and tag me [@rachmcquade] — I love seeing what lands!

You're showing up. You're posting. You're even using the trending audios... But you're still not getting seen the way you should be. If your content feels flat, your engagement’s gone quiet, or you’re just not attracting the right people — this episode is going to hit. I’m breaking down the real reasons your visibility strategy isn’t working — and giving you a powerful, no-fluff framework to help you turn things around fast. Inside this episode: 🎯 Why visibility isn’t just about frequency or trends ⚡ The 3 biggest mistakes creative founders make when trying to be seen 🧠 The mindset shift that separates noise from magnetism 💡 4 powerful visibility fixes you can implement this week to connect deeper, show up bolder, and start converting If you’re ready to go from overlooked to in demand — this episode is your roadmap. ✨ Share your takeaways on IG and tag me [@rachmcquade] ✨ Ready to amplify your brand visibility? Explore the AMPLIFY programme here: https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/amplify

After a year away from the mic — and one life-changing entrance into motherhood — I’m back with a brand new vibe, bold new energy, and a podcast that finally matches where I’m at (and where I know you’re going too). Welcome to Rebel with a Strategy — the podcast for creative female founders who are done playing small and ready to be seen, sought after, and sold out. In this first episode of the rebrand, I’m sharing: 🎸 Why Making Marketing Simple no longer felt aligned 🎸 The real reason I took a year-long break (spoiler: baby + big mindset shifts) 🎸 What’s been happening behind the scenes in life and business 🎸 Who this podcast is now for 🎸 What you can expect from upcoming episodes 🎸 And why this is your sign to stop softening your edge and start building your brand like the rebel you are Whether you're rebranding, relaunching, or reclaiming your space — this is your invitation to lead loud, market smart, and grow a business that feels like home. 🎧 Subscribe, share, and leave a review if you’re ready to join the movement. ✨ Tag me [@rachmcquade] on stories with your fave takeaway ✨ Want to work together? Head to rachaelmcquade.co.uk or drop me a DM on Instagram for info on current services

Grab the snacks & a drink, this is a juicy one! I'm sharing all the details of my birth story, as well as an insight into how I'm navigating working life while raising my son. Instagram: www.instagram.com/rachmcquade Sign up for email newsletter: https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/links Enquire about 1:1 coaching: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdnzFPAqaprT4ae_e-NifvRjtbxkwYeWvNOe_Gu1ILSu0hQ2Q/viewform

In this episode I’m talking about how elevating your mindset can have massive positive impact in the growth of your business. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachmcquade/ Enquire about 1:1 coaching: https://forms.gle/rMBtYTrs3UBynnV9A

In this episode I’m talking about how to become known for what you do and in turn become the go-to wedding supplier. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachmcquade/ Ways we can work together: https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/links

In this episode I’m talking about how to propel your business forward by taking your marketing back to basics. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachmcquade/ Enquire about 1:1 coaching: https://forms.gle/rMBtYTrs3UBynnV9A

In this episode I’m talking about how to feel confident when it comes to selling. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachmcquade/ Enquire about 1:1 coaching: https://forms.gle/rMBtYTrs3UBynnV9A

In this episode I’m talking about how to price your offers and how to feel confident when doing so. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachmcquade/ Ways to work together: https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/links

In this episode I’m talking about how to create content that converts and the strategy behind it. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachmcquade/ Ways to work together: https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/links

There's a lot of noise towards the end of a year or season or quarter to 'make it count' and 'end it with a bang' as if things reset to 0 when the clock strikes 12 - not in my world. In this episode, I'm sharing my advice & tips on how you can hit the reset button with intentionality WHENEVER works for you and in whatever way works for you so you can anchor in and make a difference without the pressure. Instagram: www.instagram.com/rachmcquade

"How can I prepare my business as much as possible ahead of the busy engagement season about to hit?" It's a question I'm hearing a lot as we head into Christmas and New Year (and as someone who got engaged at New Year I can totally see that this is THE time to be shxt-hot on your visibility) In this episode, I'm sharing the key things I feel you should be focusing on ahead of the engagement season in order to ensure you're making the most of every opportunity. Instagram: www.instagram.com/rachmcquade Streamline for Sales (90 minute intensives): https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/streamline-your-sales-1-1-intensive ^^ USE CODE BLACKFRIDAY FOR £200 OFF BEFORE THE END OF NOV 2023 ^^

In this episode, I'm talking about how strategy & simplicity SHOULD go hand in hand. Because having a strategy makes things simpler. Instagram: www.instagram.com/rachmcquade Ways to work together: https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/links

In this episode I'm diving into the steps you can take to become more strategic with your visibility strategy. BECOME VISIBLE: https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/visibility Instagram: www.instagram.com/rachmcquade

In this episode, I'm diving into my FAVOURITE marketing channel - email marketing. I'm currently working on something that is designed to stop that feeling of invisibility that can sometimes come from being inside such a busy industry like the wedding industry. We'll be working over 12 weeks to create a blueprint on how to get VISIBLE to your ideal clients & position you and your brand as the no-brainer choice of wedding supplier for your clients' big day. Currently in pre-sale, drop me a message over on Instagram to find out more. Don't forget to let me know what you're up to when you're listening to this episode too - tag me in your stories @rachmcquade on Instagram and let me know how this episode has landed for you. Instagram - www.instagram.com/rachmcquade

Inside this episode, I've shared the three-step framework I run my 1:1 clients through when it comes to pricing for better boundaries with themselves and their clients. I'm also sharing some hard-hitting questions you can work through in order to find where the blindspots are in your boundaries so that you can elevate your activity to the premium level you deserve. Instagram: www.instagram.com/rachmcquade BLUEPRINT group programme: https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/blueprint-group-programme Attracting Premium Clients FREE 5 day challenge: https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/attracting-premium-clients-free-5-day-challenge

In this episode, I'm diving into preferred supplier lists: the positives, the negatives and my recommendations on where else to move your focus so that you can take back control of your marketing & visibility to attract those dreamy premium clients you're ready to work with! BLUEPRINT Group Programme: https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/blueprint-group-programme-pre-sale Instagram: www.instagram.com/rachmcquade

It's been a MINUTE! The last three months & my first trimester has been a whole roller-coaster so I'm bearing all in this episode. I'm sharing the story of my first trimester, as well as the shifts & challenges I've been navigating and how I've come through the other side as a better human, better mama to be, and a better coach & mentor. Let me know how this ep has landed, and don't be shy in dropping me your questions over on Instagram @rachmcquade

Showing how you can overcome your mindset struggles to do things in YOUR way, leaving behind corporate life to be truly free in the life & brand you’re building. https://www.lushbloomsbespokefloristry.com/ https://www.instagram.com/lushbloomsbespokefloristry

In this episode, I'm sharing a few of my personal experiences with trusting your gut, instinct, intuition or whatever you want to call it! It's ESSENTIAL, but it's also important to do it in a practical way with context. I'd love to know what you think of this episode & how trusting your gut has supported you up to this point. Drop me a DM over on Instagram & let's continue the conversation: www.instagram.com/rachmcquade

In this episode, I sit down with the gorgeous Charlotte Davids from wedding signage & calligraphy brand 'Itchy & Sketchy' to talk about how she has built her creative brand alongside working a 9-5 job. This conversation was JUICY AF and we touched on a bunch of topics, from confidence & competition to planning your wedding and content creation. Be sure to drop me a message over on IG to let me know how you found this episode! www.instagram.com/rachmcquade Charlotte's info: IG: www.instagram.com/itchyxsketchy Website: https://itchyxsketchy.com/

In this episode, I'm sharing my three-step process to reviewing your business goals & intentions as we hit the mid-year mark. If this is something you're interested in doing together to build out a blueprint for your brand & business growth until the end of the year, let's book an Intensive. 2 hours of me & you brain dumping, mapping shit out, getting it clear AF and making it actionable so you know exactly what you need to be doing in order to achieve your goals. Drop me a DM over on Instagram to talk it through in more detail: www.instagram.com/rachmcquade https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/service-info

In this guest episode, I sit down with the incredible Natalie (@nataliewyattvirtual) to discuss all things systems, processes & streamlining for wedding professionals. Natalie is a Dubsado specialist and supports women in the wedding industry by streamlining their processes and systems, enabling them time, energy & financial freedom. Natalie's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nataliewyattvirtual/ Check out Natalie's website: https://nataliewyattvirtual.co.uk/ Ways to work with Natalie: https://nataliewyattvirtual.co.uk/services ------------------ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachmcquade/ Website: https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/ Resources: https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/shop Becoming The Go-To FREE two-part masterclass: https://rachmcquade.ck.page/thego-to

Whether you're busy with bookings or just have a bunch of plans to keep up with this summer while you try to keep the momentum in your business, I've dropped in some of my top tips for keeping momentum and staying on top of your shxt this summer. Be sure to drop over to Instagram and let me know how you found this episode: www.instagram.com/rachmcquade If you're ready to build & HOLD momentum this summer, be sure to check out my website or slide into my DM's to find out how we can work together to make magic this summer: www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk

In this episode, I'm sharing my weekly & daily non-negotiables that support me every single day in leading with authority & being the very best version of myself as a human, a fiance, a coach & a mentor. Having gone from burnout & nearly giving up on my business to now being able to support myself & my lifestyle purely with the work that I LOVE to do, this stuff is so so important to me, so I'd love to know how this episode landed for you. Share your thoughts over on Instagram >> https://www.instagram.com/rachmcquade/ Check in with our own CEO energy with my free CEO day checklist >> https://www.rachaelmcquade.co.uk/free-ceo-day-checklist Grace Beverley Productivity Method >> https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SPb9P1IDO9M

In this episode, I'm sharing an insight into my own adventure with selling: how I started out being genuinely SCARED to sell, to now feeling easy breezy about the value I have to provide, selling every single day in some way. Links mentioned: Becoming The Go-To FREE two-part training >> https://rachmcquade.ck.page/thego-to Instagram >> www.instagram.com/rachmcquade Content Upgrade VIP four week 1:1 coaching programme (drop me a DM on Insta for more info) >> www.instagram.com/rachmcquade

Welcome to the podcast! This shorter introductory episode tells you everything you'll need to know about what to expect from this show. Making marketing more accessible & simpler for women in business has been my mission from day one of starting my business, so it made sense for me to extend my knowledge & expertise onto a longer form channel for you to listen to and soak up on the go. Whether you're listening in the car, on the dog walk, in the gym, or while cooking your dinner, there will be golden nuggets for all throughout these episodes. So strap in and get ready for the ride of your life! Follow me over on Instagram > www.instagram.com/rachmcquade Want to be become known & loved for what you do? Check out my free two-part training, Becoming The Go-To > https://rachmcquade.ck.page/thego-to