CMO School

Imposter syndrome is why most Fractional CMOs undercharge, second-guess their strategy, and shrink in client meetings.And the advice everyone gives you to "work on your mindset” is great, and I'm a huge believer in it — but that takes TIME. And if you've got clients you're leading right now, you need something that works IMMEDIATELY.In this episode, we break down:5 tips to help you get past imposter syndrome fastHow to build trust with clients (even when you don't have all the answers)Why you don't need to be the expert in everything as a CMOThe ONE thing that dissolves imposter syndrome faster than anything elseThe question I ask myself when I get stuck in my head with a client (steal it!)If you're working as a Fractional CMO and imposter syndrome is keeping you from showing up like the leader your clients hired you to be you’ll love this episode.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

So many people start Fractional work then find themselves burnt out, and questioning if this model is even a fit for them.I sat down with one of my Fractional CMO School students, for a live coaching call. Lisa came to me feeling disillusioned with the fractional model after a few client experiences, and wondering what to do next.I helped her see that didn't hate the model, she just wasn’t operating inside the right structure.She had been making the same mistakes I see others make all the time, so I asked her to come on the podcast because I KNEW her experience would be so helpful for many others.In this episode, we break down:The biggest mistake I see CMO’s make when building out strategies (that actually overwhelms your clients too)The most common places where Fractionals end up overdelivering in their roleA simple filter you can use to make sure you stay in your lane and only do CMO-level work The driving analogy that helped me step into leadership and totally changed how my clients saw me (you can steal it!)If you're working as a Fractional but you’re buried in your client's Slack, your days are FULL of meetings, and you’re being pulled in a million directions, this episode is for you.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

Sales is the one skill nobody teaches you as a fractional CMO — and it's the one that determines whether your business actually grows. Most of us got into this because we're good at marketing. Not because we love selling. For a long time, I hated it. I wasn't comfortable doing it, I didn't feel like I was good at it, and the idea of getting on a call where someone might say no felt awful. Four years and millions in client revenue later — sales is one of my strongest skills.In this episode, I'm breaking down every lesson that got me there: The mindset shift that made selling stop feeling grossThe one thing you can do to make people feel understood before you've pitched anything,Why I turn people away — and how it's built my business How to lead a sales call so you're never getting interviewedHow to say your high-ticket prices without flinching.And what you can do to get better at sales. If sales still feels uncomfortable, or it’s something you want to get better at, this episode is for you.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

What you spend your time on determines everything — how visible you are to your client, how much authority you actually have, how much they'll pay you, and whether you burn out. If you've ever felt like you're executing all the marketing while your client sees you as someone who takes direction instead of sets it, this episode will help you understand why. In this episode, I break down:The four things a CMO actually owns (and where execution lives)The daily filter you use to know if you're staying in the right scopeWhy staying in execution keeps you invisible — and what that costs youWhat happens when you start setting these boundariesThis shift isn't about confidence or willpower. It's about clarity on your role. And once you have that, everything changes — how your client sees you, what you charge, how much control you have over your time. Because stepping into the CMO role isn't about doing more. It's about operating at a different level.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

What you call yourself matters less than what you actually do. And when you code-switch with the same client — saying CMO, operating as contractor — you're losing authority and pricing power.If you've ever found yourself executing work for a client while also calling yourself their Fractional CMO, this episode will help you understand why.In this episode, I'm breaking down:Exactly what to do in your first 90 days as a fractional CMOWhat you should do (and not do) in months one, two, and threeHow to integrate with the team and establish your rhythm as the leaderWhy this progression determines whether you operate like a CMO or a contractorThis isn't about being rigid or distant. It's about clarity and boundaries. Because being a Fractional CMO isn't just about strategy — it's about the seat you're actually in.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

How you structure your first 90 days changes everything about your business. When you step into a new client engagement, the order of what you focus on determines whether you're seen as a strategic leader or just another executor.In this episode, I break down:The exact order of what to focus on firstHow to integrate with the team and establish your rhythmWhen and how to prove the strategy worksWhy foundation building matters more than you thinkAnd how month three positions you as the strategic owner, not just the executorThis isn't about moving fast. It's about moving in the right order. When you follow this progression, you're not operating like a contractor. You're operating like a CMO — thinking, leading, and making decisions.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

I charge up to $20,000 for a marketing strategy — and in this episode I’m pulling back the curtain on exactly how I build it.Most fractional CMOs are winging their strategy process and massively undercharging because of it. So I’m walking you through my exact four-phase process — Discovery, Strategy Development, Delivery, and Alignment & Next Steps — and the mistakes I see people make at every stage.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

I see this all the time — founders frustrated with their hires, marketers frustrated with their clients, and everyone pointing the finger at the other person. But most of the time, it’s actually no one’s fault.In today’s episode, I’m breaking down:The biggest misunderstanding around hiring marketing supportWhy you’re not getting better resultsThe unrealistic expectations placed on one “unicorn” hireAnd the industry dynamic that keeps founders investing in tactics instead of building strategyIf you’ve ever hired “marketing help” and still ended up feeling overwhelmed, unsupported, or unsure what’s actually working, this episode is for you.And if you’re a marketer, this will help you see where unclear roles and structural gaps are setting you up for failure — even when you’re doing the best you can.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

How your clients see you determines everything — how much they trust your decisions, how often they question your strategy, how much control they take in meetings, and ultimately how much they’re willing to pay you as a Fractional CMO.If you’ve ever felt a client slowly start directing you, second-guessing your recommendations, or treating you more like an executor than a strategic leader, this episode will help you understand why.In this episode, I break down:The communication shifts that position you as a strategic leaderThe subtle behaviors that weaken your authorityThe biggest mistake marketers make when they’re trying to show up as a leaderAnd how to recalibrate the dynamic with a client if you’re sensing they don’t see you as a leaderThis isn’t about being louder or more dominant. It’s about showing up with clarity, direction, and confidence in every interaction. Because being a CMO isn’t just about strategy — it’s about leadership and communication.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

Launches and marketing campaigns are one of the biggest areas, I see Fractional CMOs overstep their boundaries,It starts with mapping out a campaign or launch…and quickly turns into building timelines, reviewing every asset, sitting in execution meetings, and basically project managing everything.In this episode of my “What I Do and Don’t Do as a CMO” series, I’m breaking down how I approach campaign and launch planning including:The 6 key things I own when planning campaigns or launchesThe difference between strategy and project managementWhere most CMOs overstep during a launch or campaignAnd the filter I use to protect my time and boundariesIf you’ve ever had PTSD from launching or doing marketing campaigns (lol I feel you), this episode will help you reset your boundaries and operate at the CMO level.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

When you don’t know what you should own (and what you shouldn’t) during the hiring process, you end up posting job descriptions, screening resumes, running interviews, onboarding new hires…and quickly turning your fractional role into a full-time job.In this episode of my series “What I Do and Don’t Do as a CMO,” I’m breaking down how I handle hiring for clients.We cover:The 5 things I own when it comes to hiring for client teamsThe biggest mistake I see marketers make when they try to “be helpful” with hiring Where the line is between strategic leadership and operational recruitingAnd the simple filter I use to protect my time and keep my boundariesHiring impacts marketing performance — but running the entire process is not your job.If you’ve ever found yourself slipping into recruiter or marketing manager mode, this episode will help you reset your boundaries and operate at the CMO level.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

You don’t need a huge audience to get Fractional CMO clients.But you do need to stop approaching sales like a freelancer.If you’ve been posting educational content, creating freebies, or “putting yourself out there” and it’s not turning into clients, this episode will show you exactly why and what to do instead.Today, I’m breaking down the 3 fastest ways to get booked as a Fractional CMO — and what most marketers are doing wrong when they try.In this episode I break down:The three fastest ways to get Fractional CMO clients, like yesterdayThe biggest mistakes I see marketers make when they’re looking for clientsA simple “start here” plan you can follow over the next 30 days to help you land clients fastAnd the one sentence that instantly positions you as a leader instead of “someone who helps with marketing”If you’re done hoping dream clients will just land in your inbox, and you're ready to take things into your hands and make it happen, this episode will show you exactly how to do that.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/RESOURCESBecome a Booked Out CMO - Get my free cold pitch email templates here: Fractional CMO Sales Email Templates — The CMO Office

If you’re a Fractional CMO and you’ve ever wondered, “What should I be charging?”, this episode is for you.So many experienced marketers undercharge in this role, and it’s one of the biggest reasons Fractional CMOs feel overworked, underpaid, and burned out.In this episode, I break down:The core mindset shift around pricing that changes how clients perceive your valueThe real pricing ranges Fractional CMOs are charging — and when each range actually makes senseThe two most common pricing models and which one I recommendThe six biggest pricing mistakes that keep smart, experienced marketers undercharging — and how to fix themThis conversation is about pricing at different levels of leadership in a way that reflects responsibility, decision-making, and ownership — and supports building a lucrative, sustainable Fractional CMO business where you’re paid appropriately for the role you’re doing.If you’ve been questioning your rates, feeling stretched thin, or sensing there’s a gap between the work you’re doing and what you’re being paid, this episode will give you the clarity you’ve been looking for.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

One of the fastest ways Fractional CMOs burn out is by not being clear on their role. When you don’t know what you should own – and what you shouldn’t – you end up overdelivering, doing work you shouldn’t, and being way busier than you need to be, which ultimately limits your earning potential. In this episode of my series “What I Do and Don’t Do as a CMO,” and I’m diving into Social MediaWe cover:What social media ownership actually means as a CMOHow to think about channel selection and prioritizationThe role of positioning and high-level content directionWhat it looks like to guide performance without getting pulled into daily executionWhy clear boundaries around social media are essential for protecting your time and valueIf you’ve ever found yourself mapping out content calendars, reviewing captions, editing reels, or posting content, — this episode will help you reset your boundaries and focus on the strategic role you’re meant to play as a CMO.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

One of the fastest ways Fractional CMOs burn out is by not being clear on their role. When you don’t know what you should own – and what you shouldn’t – you end up overdelivering, doing work you shouldn’t, and being way busier than you need to be, which ultimately limits your earning potential. In the first episode of my series “What I Do and Don’t Do as a CMO,” and I’m starting with KPIs and data. In this episode, I break down what I do (and don’t do) as a CMO when it comes to KPIs and data.In this episode, we cover:What CMOs should (and should not) do when it comes to pulling and reporting on marketing dataThe four areas I stay focused on when it comes to marketing performance and dataThe biggest mistakes and misconceptions I see when it comes to analyzing and reporting data to CEOs and leadership teamsHow to build a tracking plan that supports real decision-makingIf KPIs feel intimidating or you’ve ever thought “I’m not a numbers person,” this episode will show you that you don’t need to be an analytics expert to be a great CMO. You just need clarity on your role, strong strategic thinking, and the confidence to stay in your lane.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

Why do founder–marketer relationships break down so often — even when everyone has good intentions?In this episode, I’m joined by Heather Chauvin, leadership coach and longtime founder, to talk honestly about what founders are actually looking for when they hire marketing support — and why marketing can be one of the most emotionally charged hires a business owner makes.We unpack:Why many founders develop trust issues with marketing (and how those experiences shape expectations)The hype problem in marketing — and why results are never guaranteedWhat founders really want beyond revenue: to feel seen, heard, and supportedThe “secret ROI” conversations most marketers never ask — and why they matterWhy energy management, capacity, and boundaries are part of the jobHow strong Fractional CMOs lead as partners, not order-takers or hype machinesIf you’re a Fractional CMO or senior marketer, this episode will help you understand what’s really happening underneath founder expectations — and how to lead the relationship with more clarity, confidence, and trust.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

If you’re a Fractional CMO and you’ve ever wondered, “What should I be charging?”, this episode is for you.So many experienced marketers undercharge in this role, and it’s one of the biggest reasons Fractional CMOs feel overworked, underpaid, and burned out.In this episode, I break down:The core mindset shift around pricing that changes how clients perceive your valueThe real pricing ranges Fractional CMOs are charging — and when each range actually makes senseThe two most common pricing models and which one I recommendThe six biggest pricing mistakes that keep smart, experienced marketers undercharging — and how to fix themThis conversation is about pricing at different levels of leadership in a way that reflects responsibility, decision-making, and ownership — and supports building a lucrative, sustainable Fractional CMO business where you’re paid appropriately for the role you’re doing.If you’ve been questioning your rates, feeling stretched thin, or sensing there’s a gap between the work you’re doing and what you’re being paid, this episode will give you the clarity you’ve been looking for.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

If you’re leading marketing in 2025, you can’t afford not to understand AI.In this episode, I’m joined by Callan Faulkner, AI coach and founder of The Uncommon Business, who built a $4M company in 18 months with four AI-trained employees while working less than 40 hours a week. And here’s what matters: Callan isn’t teaching the surface-level “prompt for a caption” stuff you’ve already seen everywhere. She’s teaching what it actually looks like to become an AI Architect — building systems that give you back your time, protect your creative edge, and raise the quality of your work.We dig into:The shift from AI Offloader to AI Architect, and why it’s the next evolution of marketing leadershipWhy “opening a chat and generating content” is the fastest way to get generic, mediocre outputThe real unlock: documenting your frameworks and “genius” so AI can think like you, not like the internetThe three projects Callan recommends every Fractional CMO build: a Brand Guardian, a Sales Wizard, and a Money CoachHow to slow down up front (training systems) so you can move faster every week and reclaim real hoursIf you’ve been curious about AI but hesitant to go all-in because you don’t want to lose your voice, this conversation will change how you think about AI, leadership, and what’s possible in your business.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

If six figures as a Fractional CMO feels out of reach — like something only “top-tier marketers” or “big-name consultants” can do — this episode is going to shift that belief fast. Hitting six figures isn’t a stretch goal in this role. It’s actually the simplest part of the business when you structure it the right way.In this episode, I break down:• The biggest mindset blocks keeping marketers underpaid• Why high-ticket clients are more common than you think• How scope (not skill) is the reason your pricing feels “too high”• Three simple paths to six figures — even if you prefer light delivery• What it actually takes to build a six-figure FCMO business that feels easyIf you’ve been questioning whether this level of income is possible for you, I want this episode to show you just how accessible it really is.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/ 

If you’ve been curious about what actually happens inside Fractional CMO School — the structure, the support, the strategy, and how marketers and fractional CMOs are scaling to six figures and beyond — this video gives you the full inside tour.I’m sharing the real story behind the program, why I created it, what makes it different, and what students are experiencing once they get inside. If you’ve wondered whether becoming a Fractional CMO is right for you — or you want a clearer, more sustainable way to lead as a marketer — this will give you a clear picture of what’s possible.Inside this episode:• How I went from burnt-out marketer to six-figure Fractional CMO• The gap I saw in this industry and why Fractional CMO School exists• A behind-the-scenes look at the 6-month structure, coaching + support• The real transformations students are seeing (income + identity shifts)• What the fractional CMO role can unlock in your work, income, and lifeWhether you’re an experienced marketer who’s ready to move out of execution and into leadership — or you’re already a Fractional CMO and want a better way to build your business — this episode will help you understand whether this path is right for you.____If you’ve been curious about Fractional CMO School and want to learn more, this is your chance to peek behind the curtains.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/ 

You can do everything “right” — build the strategy, put in the hours, chase the next level — and still feel stuck. Like there’s something invisible holding you back from the growth you know you’re capable of.I’ve been there. And what I learned is this: it’s not your strategy. It’s your subconscious.When I started working with Jess Belsky, a Transformational Leadership Coach and Hypnotherapist, I thought I was fixing my money mindset. But the real shift came when I started rewiring my subconcious beliefs — the ones that were shaping how I led, what I earned, and how I showed up in my life and business.In this episode, we unpack:How subconscious patterns keep high-performing leaders from reaching their next levelThe exact inner work that changed how I think, lead, and run my business (and life)What it looks like to reprogram your beliefs so your conscious and subconscious are alignedIf you’ve been pushing harder but not getting further, this episode will help you see what’s really been in your way — and how to finally lead from the inside out.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/ 

If your Fractional CMO business doesn’t feel like the freedom you wanted, this episode is for you.So many experienced marketers end up stuck in what I call the Fractional CMO Trap: the place where you’ve technically built a business, but it still feels like a job.In this episode, I’m breaking down:What the Fractional CMO Trap isThe two doors that usually lead you into it — and how to back yourself out of each oneHow to redesign your business to gives you the freedom (and income) you set to to createA simple 30-day reset plan to help you reclaim your time, tighten boundaries, and build a Fractional business that’s sustainable If you’ve been feeling stretched, stuck, or like you’re constantly proving your value this episode is going to change how you run your business. Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

AI is moving so fast it’s hard to keep up. Some days it’s magic, other days it’s chaos. ChatGPT forgets what you told it three prompts ago. It starts using formatting you hate. It spits out content that feels flat or off-brand. Or worse — it makes stuff up and says it with confidence.This episode is about going beyond “just using AI” — and learning how to make it a tool that makes you sharper, faster, and more strategic… while delivering work that genuinely moves the needle for your clients.Jim Carter III is the AI strategist and tech founder behind some of the biggest personal brands in the world — Lewis Howes, Jay Shetty, Ed Mylett, Matthew Hussey, Jay Abraham, and Gary Vee — plus he’s worked with global companies like Verizon, Yahoo!, and AT&T. Jim doesn’t just “use AI” — he builds it into the way businesses run so it’s producing consistent, high-value results.In this episode we cover:How to get AI to produce high-quality work on the first try — without endless back-and-forth or rewrites.How to set up Custom GPTs and projects — and when each approach gives you the best results.Advanced ways to use AI for strategy work — not just content creation.The biggest mistakes even experienced marketers make with AI (and how to avoid them).Where AI is headed in the next 12–18 months so you can stay ahead of the curveIf you already see the value of AI but want to start using it at a level most marketers aren’t even touching yet, this episode is for you.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/ 

If you’ve ever wondered if you’ve got the right experience to be a Fractional CMO, this episode’s for you.I’m breaking down why there’s no “perfect” background for this kind of work — and why that’s actually the best news. Whether you’ve been in one industry or role your whole career, or jumped around, , you’ve built skill sets that uniquely prepare you for this role.In this episode, I share what kind of experience you really need in this role, how to position your background as your superpower, and how to start leading with the confidence of a CMO.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/ 

Not every client is a fit for a Fractional CMO — and the wrong ones can derail your business, your confidence, and your sanity.When you’re building your Fractional CMO business, it’s easy to say yes to anyone who wants to hire you. But fit matters more than opportunity. The right clients make your work easier, your results stronger, and your business more sustainable.In this episode, I’m breaking down:How to identify your ideal clients as a Fractional CMOThe red flags that signal a partnership won’t workThe hard lessons I learned from saying yes when I shouldn’t haveAnd the filters I now use to choose clients wiselyIf you want to attract clients who truly value your leadership, and build a business that feels as good as it looks, this episode is for you.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/ 

When I first started as a Fractional CMO, I did not want to niche. I was scared it would limit my opportunities, make me miss out on clients, or box me into something I’d get bored of. But the truth is — niching was such a catalyst to my growth. In this episode, I’m sharing:What happened when I tried to serve everyoneHow I tested different niches behind the scenes Why I eventually chose a niche and how it was the catalyst to growth (AND time freedom) If you’re still figuring out your niche — or resisting the idea altogether — this episode will help you see why narrowing your focus might be the best move you can make.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

You can have the best strategy in the world, but if your subconscious isn’t on board, you’ll find yourself spinning in the same patterns.In this episode of CMO School, I sit down with Mindi Huebner to unpack the identity shifts and subconscious rewiring that allow high-achieving women to grow businesses that feel as good as they look.We talk about:Why strategy alone won’t work if your subconscious is stuck in old patternsHow to spot the limiting beliefs and identities running your business behind the scenesCommon conditioning loops like “rest is lazy” or “my worth = my output”Small steps you can take today to start rewiring your subconscious and closing the “identity gap”If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything “right” but still not getting where you want to go, this conversation will help you understand why, and what to do differently.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently lead, land high-ticket clients, and build the business you want.🎓 Learn More → Fractional CMO SchoolEpisode Resources:Mindi’s Instagram: mindihuebner.com/IG  Mindi’s Subconscious CEO Identity Quiz: mindihuebner.com/ceoquizMindi’s FREE Identity Alignment Call: mindihuebner.com/id

I get asked all the time how I got started as a Fractional CMO — what background you need, what steps to take, and what I’ve learned along the way.So today, I’m breaking it all down for you. In this episode I’ll be sharing:My career background and how it set me up to become a Fractional CMOThe misconception I had around my own experience and readiness for this role The early months of trial and error — what I tried, what worked, and what didn’tThe biggest lessons I learned in that first yearAnd ultimately, what led me to create Fractional CMO School and help other marketers build their own thriving businesses as Fractional CMOsIf you’ve been curious about becoming a Fractional CMO, or you’re already in the role and figuring it out as you go, this episode gives you a real behind-the-scenes look at how to get started.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → Fractional CMO School

I talk to so many Fractional CMOs who are exhausted, underpaid, and questioning if they made the right move stepping into this role. That’s exactly why I made this episode.It’s not you - and it’s not the model. Most people are just running their business in a way that isn’t sustainable. If you’ve been feeling burnt out, like you’re trying to squeeze a full-time job into part-time hours, this one’s for you.What we cover:The biggest mistakes Fractional CMOs make that lead to burnoutWhat the role is actually meant to look likeHow the wrong clients can derail your business (even if you’re doing everything else right)How to reset if you’re already burnt the f out Think of this as a permission slip to stop doing it the hard way. You don’t have to overwork to prove your value. You don’t have to keep saying yes to clients who drain you. And you definitely don’t have to settle for building a business that feels heavier than the one you left. There’s a better way—and I want this episode to show you how to find it.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently lead, land high-ticket clients, and build the business you want.🎓 Learn More → Fractional CMO School

LinkedIn isn’t just a place to park your work history — it’s where your next high-ticket client is scrolling right now. The question is: will they see you as another marketer, or as the strategic leader they’ve been looking for?In this episode, I’m joined by Mandy McEwen,  LinkedIn pro, founder of Mod Girl Marketing and Lumin, and someone who’s been ahead of the curve on LinkedIn since before it was cool. Mandy shares exactly how Fractional CMOs can:Turn their profile into a landing page that actually sellsDitch the “pitch slap” and start conversations that feel realPost content that builds authority and trust (without getting lost in the noise)Use LinkedIn as a true sales channel to consistently fill their pipelineIf you’ve been treating LinkedIn like a resume, or posting and hoping someone notices, this episode will show you a better way.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently lead, land high-ticket clients, and build the business you want🎓 Learn More → Fractional CMO School

Struggling to land your first clients as a Fractional CMO? You’re not alone -  and this episode will show you exactly how to fix it.I’m coaching listener Deanna Keffer live on the podcast. After 20 years in corporate marketing, she made the leap into the Fractional CMO world and immediately ran into the same roadblock so many new Fractionals face: how do I actually get clients?Inside this episode you’ll learn:Why applying for jobs won’t get you Fractional CMO clients (and what to do instead)How to position yourself so people take you seriously and your online presence actually sells your expertiseThe exact outreach strategy I used to land my first clients — and how you can copy itWhat boundaries to set early so you don’t slide back into execution or burn out in your new roleIf you’re looking to land your first (or next) Fractional CMO clients, this episode will give you the exact steps you need to take.And if you don’t want to figure it out on your own? That’s exactly why I created Fractional CMO School. It’s my 6-month coaching program + community where you’ll get the playbook, the support, and the push you need to confidently step into the Fractional CMO role and start signing high-ticket clients.🎓 Learn More → Fractional CMO SchoolEmail templates: Fractional CMO Sales Email Templates — The CMO Office

Meet Andy Kriebel. He’s a Tableau Visionary (aka one of the world’s top data visualization experts), a global trainer, and the kind of teacher who’s helped thousands of people grow their careers. But when it came to marketing his own business? He was doing it all himself… and feeling stretched way too thin.That’s where my team and I came in. Andy joined our Fractional CMO program about six months ago, and since then we’ve been refining his strategy, tightening his focus, and freeing him up to spend more time doing what he does best: teaching.Inside this episode, you’ll hear Andy’s perspective on what it’s really like to hand off your marketing — the wins, the mindset shifts, and even the surprises. From hitting his biggest launch ever (while raising his average order value by $450 per member!) to nearly doubling last year’s revenue in half the time, Andy shares the behind-the-scenes of what changed once he stopped trying to do it all himself.If you’ve ever wondered what it could look like to have a marketing partner in your corner, this conversation will show you the before-and-after in real time.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready for a Fractional CMO to step in and lead your marketing, this is what we do. My team and I build the strategy, manage the execution, and make sure your marketing is moving the needle so you can focus on running the business.🚀 Learn More → Fractional CMO Services

Being a Fractional CMO isn’t just about building campaigns or hitting KPIs - it’s about leadership.And leadership means you own it all: the wins, the flops, and even the moments that technically weren’t your fault.In this episode we’re digging into:What radical responsibility actually looks like in a leadership roleHow to handle the pressure of total accountability (without burning out)Why it’s just as important to own the wins as it is the lossesPractical strategies for leading through mistakes, pivots, and high-pressure momentsIf you’re ready to move from “marketer who executes” to the kind of CMO clients fully trust, this episode is for you.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently lead, land high-ticket clients, and build the business you want.🎓 Learn More → Fractional CMO School

Many marketers are still sending traffic to landing pages and wondering why conversions are low - when tools like ManyChat are delivering opt-in rates as high as 90%.In this episode, I’m joined by Madi Beumee, a social media strategist and growth expert who helps online business owners grow with confidence using viral content, community engagement, and automation that actually converts.We’re breaking down how and where to use ManyChat in your 2025 strategy - whether for your own business or your clients’ - and why ignoring this tool might be costing you more than you think.We cover:Where ManyChat fits in a smart marketing strategy this yearWhy it's often outperforming landing pages and emailHow to use it without sounding spammy or roboticThe biggest mistakes marketers make - and how to avoid themTips for making ManyChat work in 2025If you’re looking to generate more leads, increase conversions, and create a better experience for your audience - this one’s for you.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently lead, land high-ticket clients, and build the business you want.🎓 Learn More → Fractional CMO School

This week’s episode is a behind-the-scenes case study with my client, Erin Stetzer — founder of Erin Stetzer Homes, a Houston-based luxury custom home building company. Erin has been in the industry for over 25 years and is known for her high-end builds, flawless client experience, and legacy projects.Over the past year, she’s expanded beyond building into homeowner representation, digital products, and coaching other industry professionals. In this episode, Erin shares why she decided to bring on a Fractional CMO, what it’s been like working with our full marketing team, and the results she’s seen in her first six months — from cutting $15K in tech costs to generating over $620K in revenue, including a $130K launch in just five days.If you’ve ever wondered what it looks like to step into this kind of partnership, you’ll get an honest client perspective on the wins, lessons, and real impact of having a marketing team fully in your corner.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready for a Fractional CMO to step in and lead your marketing, this is what we do. My team and I build the strategy, manage the execution, and make sure your marketing is moving the needle so you can focus on running the business.🚀 Learn More → Fractional CMO Services

When Abby left her agency leadership role, she was excited but nervous about stepping into the Fractional CMO world. “I’d done all the things in marketing,” she says, “but I’d never combined them with going out and selling myself.”Fractional CMO School gave her the framework, tools, and confidence to launch fast, and within her first year, she was fully booked, landing every client through referrals or her website without a single cold pitch or social post.“I truly mean it when I say I wouldn’t be here today if it wasn’t for you and this course,” said Abby.This is the story of how she did it, and what she learned along the way.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently lead, land high-ticket clients, and build the business you want.🎓 Learn more → Fractional CMO School

Email is still one of the most powerful revenue drivers in a smart marketing strategy - but most marketers aren’t using it to its full potential.In this episode, I’m joined by Emily Claire, founder of The 10K Email Club and copywriter behind top-performing email campaigns for brands like Clue. She’s on a mission to help business owners write emails that convert without sounding like a sales robot.We’re digging into what marketers and Fractional CMOs need to know about leading strong email strategy in 2025, including:How to write emails people actually want to open and readWhat to prioritize when building or optimizing a client’s email programWhy most newsletters fall flat and how to fix themWhat metrics matter now (and what to ignore)How to collaborate effectively with copywriters as the strategic leadIf you're ready to take email seriously this year, either for yourself or for your clients, his episode will help you do it smarter, faster, and with way more confidence.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently lead, land high-ticket clients, and build the business you want.🎓 Join the waitlist → Fractional CMO School

Struggling to generate consistent leads as a Fractional CMO? You’re not alone, and this episode is packed with practical strategies that actually work.Susie Crawford, former Google marketing exec and founder of a multi seven-figure paid ads agency, shares how she built a scalable lead gen system that brings in high-ticket clients without burning out.We cover:How to combine paid traffic and organic content in a way that feels doableWhat to prioritize when you don’t have a full-time marketing teamThe role of personal brand in attracting the right clientsHow to manage imposter syndrome while growing a high-level businessWhat it really looks like to build marketing systems that lastWhether you’re just getting started or looking to tighten up your current strategy, this episode will help you approach lead generation with more clarity, confidence, and consistency.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently lead, land high-ticket clients, and build the business you want.🎓 Join the waitlist → Fractional CMO School

What does it actually look like to support a high-level founder as a Fractional CMO or strategic marketing partner?In this episode, I’m joined by my client Lori Harder, founder of Glōci, host of the podcast Earn Your Happy, and founder of multiple 7-figure brands - for a candid conversation about what high-growth founders need from their marketing leadership.We’re breaking down what made Lori decide to bring in strategic marketing support, how to build trust (and what breaks it), and what marketers need to understand if they want to work with founders like Lori.What we covered:How Lori and Chris have structured their marketing team across multiple brandsWhat Lori found most valuable when it comes to working with a Fractional CMOHow to build trust with visionary founders (and what quickie breaks it)What we did to launch her new mastermind recently What Lori’s learned from the best (and worst) hires she’s madeWhether you're currently working with personal brands or want to step into higher-level strategic roles, this episode will give you a peek behind the scense of what it really looks like.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently lead, land high-ticket clients, and build the business you want.🎓 Learn More → https://www.thecmooffice.com/fractional-cmo-school

You don’t need to know everything to be ready for the Fractional CMO role, but you do need to shift how you see yourself and show up.In this episode, we’re unpacking the real reason so many experienced marketers hesitate to claim the title of Fractional CMO — and it’s not a lack of skills. It’s the belief that they have to be someone else first: more data-driven, more strategic, more “official.”Here’s what we get into:What being “ready” actually looks likeHow to lead confidently, regardless of your background or experience levelThe 3 core traits that matter most in the Fractional CMO roleWhat to do when imposter syndrome kicks inHow to identify your blind spots (and fill them without trying to “fix” yourself)The shift from task-doer to strategic partner, and how to start making it todayIf you’ve been waiting for someone to tell you you’re ready, this episode is the permission you’ve been looking for.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently lead, land high-ticket clients, and build the business you want.🎓 Join the waitlist → Fractional CMO School

If you’ve ever held yourself back from posting, pitching, or showing up because you were afraid of being judged, rejected, or just not “ready” - this episode is going to shift something for you.In this conversation, I’m joined by Maureen Evelyn - content strategist, personal brand coach, and the founder of Maureen’s Marketing. Maureen helps bold entrepreneurs turn their content into clients by building visibility, authority, and trust at scale. She’s known for creating over 100 pieces of content a month (without burning out) - and for helping her clients do the same.We’ll talk about:What it really looks like to go from freelancer to leaderThe mindset that’s helped Maureen - and her clients - stop hiding and start growingHow to build a personal brand that sells (without feeling salesy)Why she built Rejecto, an app that helps people get more comfortable hearing “no”And the messy, powerful process of stepping into your next-level self - even if it feels scaryWhether you’re a marketer guiding clients through visibility blocks, or a creative who knows you’re meant for more but haven’t fully claimed it yet - this one’s for you.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently lead, land high-ticket clients, and build the business you want.🎓 Learn More → Fractional CMO School — The CMO Office

Evergreen funnels sound like the dream - automated leads, passive income, a marketing system that runs in the background. But for most businesses, funnels don’t work the way they expect.So, what separates a funnel that actually converts from one that just burns time and money?In today’s episode, I sit down with Cheyenne Buttrey, founder of Copygirl.co, to break down what marketers need to know before investing in a funnel.We’re covering:Who should (and shouldn’t) be using evergreen funnelsWhat most marketers get wrong about funnel strategyThe biggest mistakes that kill funnel performance before they even launchWhat elements make a funnel actually work—and what data marketers should be trackingIf you’ve ever wondered when and how to implement a funnel, this episode will give you the clarity you need.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.🎓 Learn More → http://www.fractional-cmo-school.com/

I got an email recently that really made me think. It was from someone who turned down an unpaid speaking opportunity within my program, firmly stating that they don’t work for free - and honestly? I respect that. I’ve always been a big advocate for charging what you’re worth.But here’s the thing…some of the biggest opportunities in my career started as unpaid. Speaking engagements, free power hours, strategic collaborations – when done intentionally – have led to massive payoffs (I’m talking six-figures-from-one-client kind of payoffs).So in this episode, we’re digging into:When it actually makes sense to say yes to an unpaid opportunityThe questions I ask myself before decidingA real story of how one free power hour turned into over $200,000 in revenue from one client If you’ve ever wrestled with the “should I do this for free?” debate, this one’s for you. Let’s get into it.

Paid ads can be a game-changer - but only if you know how to hire and manage the right team. As a Fractional CMO or marketing leader, your job isn’t to run ads—it’s to hire and manage an agency that can deliver results for your clients.In this episode, I sit down with Jennifer Spivak, CEO of The Ad Girls, to break down exactly how CMOs can make paid ads work as part of a larger marketing strategy. Jennifer and I have worked together on countless client accounts, and she’s sharing her best insights on how to hire the right agency, manage the relationship, and ensure paid ads actually drive revenue.We’re covering:-The biggest mistakes marketers make with paid ads (and how to avoid them)-How to vet and hire an ad agency for your clients—what to ask, what to look for, and what to avoid-How to manage and collaborate with an agency as a Fractional CMO to drive better results-Scaling your business as a marketer or Fractional CMO—Jennifer has built a powerhouse agency, and she’s sharing what it really takes to scale successfullyIf you’re a marketer looking to step into CMO-level leadership, knowing how to hire and work with paid ad agencies is a skill you need. And if you’re looking to scale your own business, Jennifer’s insights from building and leading a wildly successful agency are invaluable.

Ever had a moment as a marketer where you thought, I hate marketing? You’re not alone. I’ve been there - more than once. But every single time, it wasn’t marketing itself that I hated - it was the wrong job, wrong boss, or doing work that didn’t align with what I loved.In this episode, I’m joined by my longtime friend, Jessica Turner, who started her career in marketing with me but ultimately took a different path, stepping into product strategy. She’s seen my entire evolution — from fresh-out-of-university marketer to Fractional CMO — and today, she’s helping me break down the biggest reasons marketers feel stuck, how to tell if you’re in the wrong role, and how to pivot into work that actually excites you.If you’re feeling burned out, uninspired, or questioning your career, this episode will help you figure out what’s really going on—and what to do about it.Ready to take the next step?If you’re ready to step into the Fractional CMO role but want support as you do it, Fractional CMO School is a 6-month coaching program + community to help you confidently land high-ticket clients and build a 6-figure (and beyond) business as a Fractional CMO.Start or scale as a Fractional CMO → https://fractional-cmo-school.com

What actually happens in the first 90 days when a Fractional CMO steps into a business? Where should the focus be? How do you know if it’s working? In this episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on my exact process—from the deep-dive audit that reveals hidden opportunities to the quick wins that drive immediate results, to building a marketing strategy that sets the foundation for long-term growth. Whether you're hiring a Fractional CMO or stepping into the role yourself, this episode breaks down what to expect, what matters most in those first 90 days, and how to ensure you’re making an impact fast.Fractional CMO School - Fractional CMO School is a six-month coaching program + community designed to help you launch your business, attract dream clients, and build the business you've always dreamed of.Find me on LinkedInFind me on InstagramStrategic Marketer Assessment - Unlock access to my free self-assessment for marketers who are juggling too much and want to work less while earning more. Uncover your strengths, identify where you're undervaluing yourself, and take actionable steps to maximize your income – without adding more to your plate.Fractional CMO Business Start Up Guide - Unlock instant access to Your Fractional CMO Business Start-Up Guide + unlock the EXACT steps you need to start and grow your own Fractional CMO business – starting today.

The term Fractional CMO is everywhere right now, but let’s be real—most people have no idea what it actually means. If you’ve been wondering, Is this just a fancy name for a marketing consultant? Do they run my ads? Why would I hire one instead of a full-time CMO?—this episode is for you.I’m breaking down exactly what a Fractional CMO does, what they don’t do, and why so many businesses hire one for the wrong reasons. We’ll talk about when you actually need a Fractional CMO, how they fit into your business, and how to spot the difference between a true strategic leader and someone just slapping the title on their LinkedIn profile.If you’re a business owner thinking about hiring one - or a marketer wondering if this could be your next career move - this episode is your roadmap.Fractional CMO School - Fractional CMO School is a six-month coaching program + community designed to help you launch your business, attract dream clients, and build the business you've always dreamed of.Find me on LinkedInFind me on InstagramStrategic Marketer Assessment - Unlock access to my free self-assessment for marketers who are juggling too much and want to work less while earning more. Uncover your strengths, identify where you're undervaluing yourself, and take actionable steps to maximize your income – without adding more to your plate.Fractional CMO Business Start Up Guide - Unlock instant access to Your Fractional CMO Business Start-Up Guide + unlock the EXACT steps you need to start and grow your own Fractional CMO business – starting today.

Welcome to CMO School, the go-to podcast for marketers who are ready to level up. I’m Jess Shirra, a Fractional CMO, marketing strategist, and founder of Fractional CMO School. After 15+ years leading marketing for brands like Lululemon, Pottery Barn, Strava, Jenna Kutcher, and Lori Harder, I’m here to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to drive growth, lead strategy, and step into your next chapter.Expect expert insights, real talk about what works (and what doesn’t), and actionable strategies to help you think like a CMO—whether you’re climbing the ladder or building your own Fractional CMO business. This is the CMO School podcast.Fractional CMO School - Fractional CMO School is a six-month coaching program + community designed to help you launch your business, attract dream clients, and build the business you've always dreamed of.Find me on LinkedInFind me on InstagramStrategic Marketer Assessment - Unlock access to my free self-assessment for marketers who are juggling too much and want to work less while earning more. Uncover your strengths, identify where you're undervaluing yourself, and take actionable steps to maximize your income – without adding more to your plate.Fractional CMO Business Start Up Guide - Unlock instant access to Your Fractional CMO Business Start-Up Guide + unlock the EXACT steps you need to start and grow your own Fractional CMO business – starting today.