Digital Marketing 4 SME's

Hosted by Mike Sharp

Business Marketing

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Jun 2026

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About the show

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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60 recent

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 2008How data and customer journey mapping drive personalised marketingDifferent tools and platforms for automation including Go High Level, Keap, HubSpot, and othersStrategies for lead generation, nurturing, and converting prospects with automationThe importance of ongoing communication and relationship-building post-saleCost saving tips by optimizing tech stack and renegotiating software contractsPractical automation examples for Facebook ads, email campaigns, appointment setting, and follow-upsHow to start simple: leveraging Facebook lead forms and basic workflowsThe role of AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude in research and content creationReal-world applications: charity walks, health initiatives, and personal projectsDamien 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 Doctor02:01 - Damian’s background in health clubs and automation via client retention strategies04:02 - Lessons learned from his health club business crash and pivot to online fitness05:40 - The rise and challenges of Fit Steps and data insight value07:23 - The impact of COVID on digital fitness solutions and automation advantages09:02 - How automation started and evolved for Damien’s business ventures10:44 - Popular automation platforms: Infusionsoft, Go High Level, HubSpot11:44 - Key functions of CRMs and workflow automation in marketing and sales12:34 - Building customer qualification and segmentation through automation13:11 - Automating for nurture sequences, appointment booking, and referrals14:40 - Customer journey mapping and creating personalized automation paths15:17 - The importance of segmentation and tailored messaging16:33 - Maintaining relationships with regular, relevant communication17:11 - Integration of CRM with social media, financial, and project management tools18:17 - Automating reminders, follow-ups, and re-engagement strategies19:01 - When and where to start with automation in your business20:37 - Practical lead generation strategies with Facebook and lead forms22:04 - Automating customer onboarding, order follow-up, and reviews23:33 - Using automation for predictive contact points, e.g., mortgage or dental checkups26:36 - Adding value through 'Wow' moments: personalized thank yous, gifts, and extra touches28:28 - Overview of Damian’s tech stack and choosing cost-effective solutions30:46 - Saving costs by renegotiating and consolidating software tools, avoiding legacy systems32:21 - How automation enables real-time analytics and business insights33:17 - The future of automation and AI integration36:31 - Damien’s charity work: supporting women’s heart health and charity walks38:46 - Favorite music, films, and personal interests43:41 - The anticipated future of automation in SMEs and online business46:17 - How to get in touch for automation consultancy and servicesResources & Links:Connect with DamianEmail: ⁠damian@thedigitaldoctor.co.uk⁠Website: ⁠thedigitaldoctor.co.uk⁠Walking 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 expertise01:02 Sylwia's journey from sales and accountancy to branding04:22 Understanding, imagining, creating: Sylwia's three-stage process05:59 Branding is more than just a logo08:04 Starting with client and business understanding10:52 Connecting visual identity with brand values11:26 The power of childlike questions in innovation16:09 Introducing NanoChange: small steps for big growth19:09 Sylwia's 52-week journal for personal development21:12 Challenging limits: the story behind the 10K run23:18 The impact of habits and challenges on growth24:04 Using the understand-imagine-create blueprint with clients28:24 The role of AI in creative and routine tasks32:08 Sylwia's views on AI tools like ChatGPT33:43 Sylwia's favorite books and their influence36:14 Favorite holiday destinations and Poland's seasons37:51 Sylwia's favorite foods and contact info guest linksLinkedIn -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 doHow to identify your unique "field of excellence" and package it correctlyWhy writing a book is the #1 confidence and positioning tool for new coaches and consultantsThe 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 AmazonWhether 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 2026I 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/skoolVisit 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-offerDan's Video on AI tools mentioned in the interview7 AI Solutions You Can Start Using In Your Business TOMORROWhttps://youtu.be/b0cwlw8Hra8?si=UqYIgQR-bCBg5J0QAutomate your business with Foundations.AIhttps://mikesonlineacademy.com/foundations-ai-proManage your ads campaign and track your leads with one tool:https://mikesonlineacademy.com/foundations-ai-adsmanagerEmail marketing, SMS And Whats app Marketing, Automated Lead Source Tracking And Business Phone Number:https://mikesonlineacademy.com/foundations-ai-emailAll Foundation AI products come with 24/7 SupportGet expert help with Meta and Google Ads for just £17https://mikesonlineacademy.com/skoolGet free 30 day access to Entrepreneurs Circle:https://mikesonlineacademy.com/ec-30-day-free-trialNeed help with Paid ads? Book a free 30 minute virtual coffee with Mike:https://mikesonlineacademy.com/virtualcoffee

December 6, 20253 min

AI Content And Google - What you need to know

Explore the dynamic world of AI content and its impact on Google's search algorithms in this insightful discussion with Madeleine from Originality.ai Discover how AI-generated content is reshaping digital landscapes, the challenges of maintaining transparency, and the evolving strategies to navigate search engine penalties. Whether you're a content creator, marketer, or tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into the intersection of AI and search technology.Check out Originality.aI for free here: ⁠https://originality.aiEnhance your Google Ads skills at Mike's Online Academy - Try free for 7 days at ⁠https://mikesonlineacademy.com/skool

November 28, 202532 min

Authenticity And AI - An Interview With Originality.AI's Madeleine Lambert

Join me as I sit down with Madeleine Lambert, founding leadership team member at Originality.ai, to explore the evolving world of AI plagiarism detection. Discover how AI is reshaping digital marketing, the challenges of maintaining accuracy, and the future of AI in content creation.Whether you're a marketer, educator, or tech enthusiast, this episode offers valuable insights into AI and authenticity.Check out Originality.AI for free here: https://originality.ai/Enhance your Google Ads skills at Mike's Online Academy - Try free for 7 days at https://mikesonlineacademy.com/skool

October 20, 202544 min

Mick Betteridge MBE - From Royal Marines to Award-Winning Business Coach: Mick's Journey, AI Tips & Veteran Entrepreneur Insights.

Join me in this engaging interview with Mick Betteridge MBE, a former Royal Marines veteran turned award-winning business coach.Fresh from winning the Business Enabler of the Year at the National Entrepreneurs' Convention, Mick shares his inspiring transition from 24 years in the military to empowering small businesses and veterans through coaching and the Vetpreneurs Circle.Discover practical advice on scaling your business, embracing AI for efficiency, mastering pricing strategies, and using CRM systems to build stronger client relationships. Mick also reveals his cutting-edge AI project that's revolutionising lead generation for coaches.Whether you're a veteran entrepreneur, small business owner, or aspiring leader, this episode is packed with actionable insights on accountability, processes, and adapting to tech like AI.Connect with Mick:Websites: https://vetrepreneurscircle.co.ukhttps://veteranentrepreneurs.org.uk/Want to learn how to run successful Facebook and Google Ads ?Join the Mike's Online Academy community on Skool and get expert help with your ads for just $17 a month Sign up for the 7 day free trial here:https://mikesonlineacademy.com/skool