Hosted by UK Meta and Google Ads specialist Mike Sharp founder of Mike's Online Academy, Mike hosts a range of digital marketing experts covering a range of subjects including Meta Ads, Google Ads, YouTube ads, SEO, Email Marketing, AI Marketing, Marketing strategy and more to help small to medium sized businesses get more leads and sales.
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October 25, 202656 min
How to Build a Brand Customers Will Trust | Matt Smith
Thinking about a new logo or website? Before you spend a penny, get clear on what your business stands for and why customers should choose you. Branding expert Matt Smith joins Mike Sharp to explain how small businesses can build a memorable, trusted brand without wasting money on the wrong things. Drawing on more than 30 years in design, Matt shares why your purpose, positioning and messaging should come before your visual identity. They explore how to find your point of difference, turn your founder’s story into a reason to buy, and explain what you do without confusing customers with jargon. Along the way, they discuss lessons from Cannondale and Jaguar, where AI helps and where human judgement still matters and why reviews and recommendations are part of your brand, too. Whether you’re starting a business or wondering why your marketing isn’t connecting, this conversation will help you get the foundations right before investing in a new look. Connect with Matt on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattsmithcreative/ Website: https://www.mattsmithcreative.com/ Check out Matt's Branding 101 training workshop on the 27th October 2026 - if you miss this date look out for future workshops. https://skillsandbusinesshub.org/training_courses/branding-101-oct-2026/ Connect with Mike host of Let's Talk Digital Marketing.Get more leads and sales for your business with Google Ads Free Google Ads audit (not just an AI report) https://mikesonlineacademy.com/freeaudit Join my Free Meta And Google Ads Community on Skool: https://mikesonlineacademy.com/skool Follow me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeesharp/ Struggling with your marketing? Book a free virtual coffee with me. https://growth.mikesonlineacademy.com/
September 27, 20261 hr 0 min
AI Is Talking to AI: How SMEs Win With Real Human Connection | Graham Coath
AI is already talking to AI on LinkedIn but the businesses that stand out will be the ones that make people feel seen, heard and valued. In this conversation, digital marketing expert and prolific podcaster Graham Coath explains why real dialogue, long-term consistency and genuine curiosity matter more than chasing likes, viral posts or automated engagement. With more than 700 podcast episodes behind him and seven years of posting a daily LinkedIn poll, Graham shares a refreshingly honest view on visibility, content and building a business people actually want to connect with. In this episode, we cover: Why “going viral” is not a business strategy The danger of AI-generated engagement and AI talking to AI How to create LinkedIn content that starts real conversations Why a like or “Great post” comment is not meaningful engagement The power of showing genuine interest in a small number of people What seven years of daily LinkedIn polls taught Graham about consistency Why many talented people never make it—and what resilience has to do with it What musicians, live performance and business can teach us about connection How to use AI without losing your humanity Graham’s new book, And in Poll Position Featured quote: “If you want to sell in 2026, the thing you need to be most interested in is not yourself—it needs to be the people in front of you.” Connect with Graham at a better way of life https://abetterwayoflife.co.uk and explore his book, And in Poll Position available on Amazon in paperback and Kindle. Get more leads and sales for your business: Free Google Ads Audit: https://mikesonlineacademy.com/freeaudit Follow me on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeesharp/ Book a 121: https://growth.mikesonlineacademy.com/
August 18, 202639 min
Add a Zero Without the Hustle: How One Question Grew Sales 48% - Stacey Hylen
Business coach Stacey Hylen has helped clients go from six to eight figures without the burnout. In this episode she shares her "Add a Zero Without the Hustle" philosophy, the overlooked upsell strategy that grew one client's sales 48% in a single month, and how she became one of the first business coaches to build AI into her work. Host Mike Sharp (Mike's Online Academy) sits down with Stacey - former VP of Consulting for Tony Robbins, longtime collaborator with Chet Holmes (The Ultimate Sales Machine), and author of the upcoming book Hidden Profits to unpack how small and medium businesses can grow revenue from clients they already have, instead of chasing endless new leads. In this episode: • Why the "BS funnel" quietly kills business growth • The "want fries with that?" upsell — and why it works • Resources vs. resourcefulness: the Tony Robbins recession lesson • How one question added 48% to a client's revenue in 30 days • Becoming an early AI adopter (the first 1% of ChatGPT users) • Custom GPTs, the SASI framework, and using AI without losing your voice • Lifestyle design: growing the business without sacrificing your family Chapters 00:00 – Intro 01:04 – Stacey's story: giving entrepreneurs back to their families 05:09 – "Add a Zero Without the Hustle" explained 08:10 – Money mindset & the upper-limit problem 09:38 – The upsell strategy ("want fries with that?") 12:31 – Resources vs. resourcefulness 14:28 – The one-question upsell: +48% in a month 17:14 – Becoming an early AI adopter 20:20 – Custom GPTs & the SASI framework 22:15 – Inside working with Tony Robbins & Chet Holmes 29:25 – Who she works with & lifestyle design 32:19 – How to work with Stacey 32:47 – Rapid fire: music, books, films & favourite tech 38:20 – Where to find Stacey Connect with Stacey Hylen: Free hidden-profits assessment & custom GPT → https://moreclientsandcash.com/ Coaching & masterminds → https://staceyhylen.com/ More from Mike's Online Academy: Work with Mike to get more leads and sales for your business with paid ads https://growth.mikesonlineacademy.com Get free access to my paid ads community on skool: https://mikesonlineacademy.com/skool
June 5, 202647 min
Automation Success Story: The Hidden Power of Automation in Building Customer Loyalty and Revenue | Digital Marketing 4 SME'S Podcast
Damian Lo Cascio known as the Digital Doctor, shares practical insights into automating marketing, sales, and customer service processes, and discusses the future of digital solutions for SMEs. Main Topics Covered: The evolution of automation in small businesses since 2008 How data and customer journey mapping drive personalised marketing Different tools and platforms for automation including Go High Level, Keap, HubSpot, and others Strategies for lead generation, nurturing, and converting prospects with automation The importance of ongoing communication and relationship-building post-sale Cost saving tips by optimizing tech stack and renegotiating software contracts Practical automation examples for Facebook ads, email campaigns, appointment setting, and follow-ups How to start simple: leveraging Facebook lead forms and basic workflows The role of AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude in research and content creation Real-world applications: charity walks, health initiatives, and personal projects Damien emphasizes that automation is personalisable and scalable. Start simple with lead forms and basic workflows before expanding. Regular communication and relationship nurturing are key to maximizing customer lifetime value. Evaluate and optimize your tech stack to reduce costs and complexity. AI tools like ChatGPT can assist with content, research, and problem-solving. Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and guest overview: Damian, the Digital Doctor 02:01 - Damian’s background in health clubs and automation via client retention strategies 04:02 - Lessons learned from his health club business crash and pivot to online fitness 05:40 - The rise and challenges of Fit Steps and data insight value 07:23 - The impact of COVID on digital fitness solutions and automation advantages 09:02 - How automation started and evolved for Damien’s business ventures 10:44 - Popular automation platforms: Infusionsoft, Go High Level, HubSpot 11:44 - Key functions of CRMs and workflow automation in marketing and sales 12:34 - Building customer qualification and segmentation through automation 13:11 - Automating for nurture sequences, appointment booking, and referrals 14:40 - Customer journey mapping and creating personalized automation paths 15:17 - The importance of segmentation and tailored messaging 16:33 - Maintaining relationships with regular, relevant communication 17:11 - Integration of CRM with social media, financial, and project management tools 18:17 - Automating reminders, follow-ups, and re-engagement strategies 19:01 - When and where to start with automation in your business 20:37 - Practical lead generation strategies with Facebook and lead forms 22:04 - Automating customer onboarding, order follow-up, and reviews 23:33 - Using automation for predictive contact points, e.g., mortgage or dental checkups 26:36 - Adding value through 'Wow' moments: personalized thank yous, gifts, and extra touches 28:28 - Overview of Damian’s tech stack and choosing cost-effective solutions 30:46 - Saving costs by renegotiating and consolidating software tools, avoiding legacy systems 32:21 - How automation enables real-time analytics and business insights 33:17 - The future of automation and AI integration 36:31 - Damien’s charity work: supporting women’s heart health and charity walks 38:46 - Favorite music, films, and personal interests 43:41 - The anticipated future of automation in SMEs and online business 46:17 - How to get in touch for automation consultancy and services Resources & Links: Connect with Damian Email: damian@thedigitaldoctor.co.uk Website: thedigitaldoctor.co.uk Walking In Memory: walkinginmemory.co
May 25, 202639 min
Branding Beyond Logos | Digital Marketing 4 SME's Podcast
Sylwia Czarnecka, a branding and marketing expert, shares her journey from sales to creative branding, emphasising the importance of understanding your brand's core, asking childlike questions, and integrating AI tools into creative processes. Discover practical strategies for building a cohesive brand identity and fostering personal growth. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Sylwia Czarnecka and her expertise 01:02 Sylwia's journey from sales and accountancy to branding 04:22 Understanding, imagining, creating: Sylwia's three-stage process 05:59 Branding is more than just a logo 08:04 Starting with client and business understanding 10:52 Connecting visual identity with brand values 11:26 The power of childlike questions in innovation 16:09 Introducing NanoChange: small steps for big growth 19:09 Sylwia's 52-week journal for personal development 21:12 Challenging limits: the story behind the 10K run 23:18 The impact of habits and challenges on growth 24:04 Using the understand-imagine-create blueprint with clients 28:24 The role of AI in creative and routine tasks 32:08 Sylwia's views on AI tools like ChatGPT 33:43 Sylwia's favorite books and their influence 36:14 Favorite holiday destinations and Poland's seasons 37:51 Sylwia's favorite foods and contact info guest links LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/sylwia-czarnecka/ Website - https://bold-creative.co.uk
April 30, 20261 min
Are You An Activated Life Long Learner?
Are you an activated lifelong learner, or just a lifelong learner? In this insightful clip, we dive into the mindset that separates the top ten per cent of the world from the rest. .
April 20, 202650 min
Katrena Friel on Building Your Personal Brand | Digital Marketing 4 SMEs
In this episode I sit down with award-winning TEDx speaker and business coach Katrena Friel to unpack how a devastating $30,000 scam became the best thing that ever happened to her — and how it launched a 25-year career helping SME owners become recognised experts in their field. Katrena shares her "Becoming the Expert" program, a 12-month done-for-you journey that takes experienced professionals and turns their knowledge into a published book, a signature talk, and a high-value signature program — all in 90 days of build time. In this episode you'll learn: Why building a business is the greatest personal development program you'll ever do How to identify your unique "field of excellence" and package it correctly Why writing a book is the #1 confidence and positioning tool for new coaches and consultants The truth about online courses (and why high-touch 1-on-1 programs convert better) How Katrena has helped 100% of her clients hit #1 bestseller on Amazon Whether you're a consultant, coach, or service-based business owner with 1–10 staff, this episode is packed with practical insight on how to stand out, charge your worth, and build a business that reflects who you truly are. 🌐 Find Katrena at: https://becomingtheexpert.com.au 🌐 Find Mike at https://mikesonlineacademy.com
March 24, 20261 hr 20 min
Google Ads Made Simple - What You Need To Know
This is a recording from my presentation to the Cofi Business Network session.If you’re having issues with Google Ads, feel like you’re wasting money, not getting leads, or simply don’t understand what’s going on behind the scenes — this is a must-watch.I break Google Ads down in a clear, practical way for real business owners, covering what actually matters, what to avoid, and how to make your ads work smarter, not harder.Perfect for small businesses, founders, and anyone running their own marketing. Join my community on skool for free at https://mikesonlineacademy.com/skool
March 14, 202623 min
From Invisible To In Demand: Organic Vs Paid Ads
Posting daily but getting nowhere? Boosting ads but seeing no return?You don’t need “more marketing”.You need better strategy.Watch this talk delivered to the CR38IVES Club in February 2026 I break down how organic and paid marketing complement each other and how creatives can use both to build momentum without overwhelm. Learn about paid ads in my community on skool: https://mikesonlineacademy.com/skool Visit CR38IVES Club: Real talk. Real tactics. Real connections. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/cr38ives-club-online-networking-event-tickets-1975281842163
December 20, 202541 min
AI For SME's: How To Use AI Tools For Business Growth With Dan Sagar
In this episode of Digital Marketing 4 SME's my guest is business growth specialist Dan Sagar who discusses his journey into business coaching, the relevance of AI for small to medium enterprises (SMEs), and various AI tools that can help your business grow. Dan emphasizes the importance of automating repetitive tasks, utilising CRM systems for client research, and the benefits of using AI for database reactivation. He also introduces his software, Foundations AI, which helps businesses streamline their processes and improve efficiency. Relevant Links:Dan's 90 Day Business Plan limited time offer is now live - expires 31st December 2025: https://dsbusinessgrowth.co.uk/90-day-offer Dan's Video on AI tools mentioned in the interview7 AI Solutions You Can Start Using In Your Business TOMORROW https://youtu.be/b0cwlw8Hra8?si=UqYIgQR-bCBg5J0Q Automate your business with Foundations.AI https://mikesonlineacademy.com/foundations-ai-pro Manage your ads campaign and track your leads with one tool: https://mikesonlineacademy.com/foundations-ai-adsmanager Email marketing, SMS And Whats app Marketing, Automated Lead Source Tracking And Business Phone Number: https://mikesonlineacademy.com/foundations-ai-email All Foundation AI products come with 24/7 Support Get expert help with Meta and Google Ads for just £17 https://mikesonlineacademy.com/skool Get free 30 day access to Entrepreneurs Circle: https://mikesonlineacademy.com/ec-30-day-free-trial Need help with Paid ads? Book a free 30 minute virtual coffee with Mike: https://mikesonlineacademy.com/virtualcoffee
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