More Perfect Marketing

Hosted by David Baer

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Episodes

256

Latest episode

Mar 2025

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About the show

How can small businesses make incremental improvements in their marketing? This show explores how to think strategically (rather than tactically) and develop systems that support predictable and consistent business growth. For many businesses, marketing feels like a necessary evil... where money seems to fly out the window, with little to show for it. It seems like things are getting more complicated all the time, with way too many ways to advertise and promote your business. It doesn't have to be this way! David Baer and his guests share insights into what's important, what's not, and the core principles behind smart marketing that small business owners and entrepreneurs must have in place... no matter what marketing tactics they are using. Each episode contains powerful information to help you think strategically about your business, drive targeted traffic and attention your way, and grow your bottom line through "more perfect" marketing.

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60 recent

March 17, 2025Episode 25034 min

Opportunities & Pitfalls in Home Services Marketing (with Phil Risher)

In the home services industry, success isn;t measured by racking up leads... it's about building solid, long-lasting customer connections through smart marketing. Many businesses in this space chase after new leads while overlooking a goldmine of potential in the relationships they already have. In this episode we're chatting about how these businesses can shift their focus to not just ring the phone, but also keep it ringing with the right strategies. Our guest, Phil Risher, has been in the digital marketing trenches, especially for home services. Since 2019, he’s been helping businesses step up their marketing game, focusing on tactics that are all about long-term success. Phil is the owner of Phlash Consulting which helps local service businesses increase their sales and keep their schedules full through data-driven digital marketing consulting. After helping a 20-year-old $3M service business scale to $5M in 24 months and sell to private equity, Phil took that blueprint and now helps other home service businesses grow. Phil’s efforts in technology and small business have been featured on Jobber's Masters of Home Service, Forbes, CNBC, Yahoo Finance, The Wall Street. Links Mentioned: https://phlashconsulting.com https://www.youtube.com/@phlashconsulting

February 3, 2025Episode 24934 min

Solving Silent Money Leaks in Email Marketing (with MV Braverman)

As the digital landscape evolves, one core marketing component remains crucial: how effectively you communicate with your audience. Email marketing, especially automated campaigns, can be a game-changer for businesses. But what happens when the “set it and forget it” approach morphs into a “set it and neglect it” reality? Spoiler alert: It's not good news. On this episode of "More Perfect Marketing," we explore the delicate balance between automation and careful management in email marketing. This topic is essential for anyone striving to optimize their marketing efforts without falling into common traps. Automation promises efficiency and scalability. Imagine sending thousands of personalized emails without lifting a finger. Sounds perfect, right? However, without proper oversight, these automated systems can become silent saboteurs, causing missed opportunities and revenue leaks. And let's not forget the dreaded cold email outreach issues that many marketers face—emails undelivered, unclicked, or worse, marked as spam. Our guest is MV Braverman, the founder of Inbox Welcome, where email deliverability gets done right. MV’s all about making sure your emails actually land in the inbox—because if they don’t, what’s the point? With a gift for cutting through the forest of jargon, MV helps solopreneurs and small businesses send emails people love to receive and mailbox providers love to deliver. Links Mentioned: inboxwelcome.com/automationcpr

January 20, 2025Episode 24835 min

The New Marketing Agency Success Model (with Colby Wegter)

For marketing agencies, clarity, expectation-setting, and strategic business insights aren't just nice-to-haves; they're crucial for success. On this episode of "More Perfect Marketing," we explore the transformative power of setting clear roles, effective communication, and strategic thinking with our guest, Colby Wegter. If you’re struggling with managing client expectations or finding yourself bogged down by unnecessary meetings, this is an episode you won't want to miss. How often do you find yourself saying "yes" to clients just to keep them happy, only to realize later that it leads to muddled roles and unmet expectations? This episode sheds light on the importance of valuing clarity over happiness by defining roles and setting milestones that hold both parties accountable. After all, satisfaction stems from understanding and agreement, not just from over-delivering. My guest is Colby Wegterm, a seasoned marketing professional on a mission to help agency owners scale to seven figures while reducing their work hours. Plus Colby also focuses on developing customized systems and coaching that address individual business needs. Through his work with Autonomy Agency, he aims to impact thousands of clients by aiding just a handful of agency owners, a strategy he believes brings more value and freedom to the table. Links Mentioned: autonomyagency.com

January 13, 2025Episode 24732 min

Connecting Dreams and Consumers Through Marketing (with Jeremy Haselwood)

Ever wonder why some marketing strategies fail to make a real impact despite substantial investment and effort? On this episode of "More Perfect Marketing," we explore the often overlooked, yet crucial elements that can make or break a marketing campaign. Whether it's the need for a more holistic approach, the role of strategic investment, or understanding the importance of marrying tactics with a strong underlying strategy, this conversation shines a spotlight on the complexities and criticalities of modern marketing. It's easy to get bogged down with the day-to-day tasks of marketing – building websites, running ads, crafting content – but without a cohesive strategy, these efforts can be like trying to tune an orchestra without a conductor. In this episode, we're breaking down what it takes to orchestrate a successful marketing strategy that not only drives results but also aligns perfectly with broader business goals. I'm joined by Jeremy Haselwood, the founder of Ampla Marketing, a consultancy noted for its meticulous blending of marketing services and strategic consulting. Jeremy's journey is as enlightening as it is inspiring. After a stint in the music industry, he pivoted to marketing, driven by the desire to make meaningful changes in how businesses engage with their audiences. His background gives him a unique perspective that combines creativity with strategic acumen, making him one of the most multifaceted marketers today. To say Jeremy is experienced would be an understatement. His work ranges from spearheading marketing efforts for large corporate brands to driving impactful campaigns for nonprofits. Over the past decade, Ampla Marketing has grown primarily through quality work and referrals, mirroring Jeremy's emphasis on building relationships and delivering exceptional results. Links Mentioned: JeremyHaselwood.com

December 30, 2024Episode 24633 min

Building Brand Awareness with Radical Marketing Techniques (with Damiano Raveenthiran)

In an age where digital platforms shape the success of businesses, one cannot overstate the importance of crafting a robust online presence and marketing strategy. For entrepreneurs and business leaders, understanding how to effectively leverage platforms like Instagram can be groundbreaking. But there’s more to successful marketing than just posting online—it's an intricate dance between strategy, trust, and a relentless drive to innovate. On this episode we explore these vital elements with our special guest, Damiano Raveenthiran. Known for his pioneering work in radical marketing, Damiano has a reputation for pushing the boundaries in ways that capture attention, drive engagement, and create lasting brand loyalty. His unique approach is not just about meeting business goals but smashing through them with daring and creative marketing initiatives. In our conversation, Damiano shares his journey from designing websites in his adolescence to building a multifaceted career as a serial entrepreneur, mentor, and investor. His insight into Instagram as a key platform for marketing and branding is just a glimpse of the depth of knowledge he brings. As someone who started building sites at age 13 and saw his skills evolve alongside the internet, Damiano’s perspective is both seasoned and fresh. Links Mentioned: brandbutter.me linkedin.com/in/damianor instagram.com/damianor

December 9, 2024Episode 24534 min

Six Keys to Entrepreneurial & Life Success (with Clate Mask)

Entrepreneurs and small business owners often face a unique blend of challenges and opportunities, where the stakes are high and the journey is filled with both excitement and uncertainty. But what if there was a set of practices or habits that could guide you towards consistent growth and success? On this episode of we explore just that. My guest is NY Times best-selling author, the CEO and co-founder of Keap, Clate Mask. Keap, the leader in small business automation software, is an 8-time Inc 5000 winner and is widely used by savvy small businesses to grow with automation. Clate’s passion is helping small businesses conquer the chaos and grow their business using the Six Keys to Success. When Clate isn’t serving entrepreneurs and building Keap, he loves to spend time with his wife, Charisse, their six kids, and their grandkids. He also loves playing golf and watching sports, with serious passion for the Arizona pro sports teams. He is intimately familiar with the balancing act of entrepreneurs, which is what drove him to discover and teach the Six Keys. Because success as an entrepreneur means having a great business and a great life. In our discussion, you don’t just get a list of to-dos from Clate; you get a roadmap for creating a more organized, strategic, and inspired approach to your business and life. Habit-forming and consistency are key, but it’s the strategic planning and leadership components Clate shares that truly set this episode apart. Automated processes in customer interactions are discussed not as a way to strip away personal touch but to enhance efficiency while maintaining genuine connection. For more insights and practical tips, make sure to listen to this engaging and enlightening episode. Clate’s wisdom and actionable advice are simply too valuable to miss. Links Mentioned: Conquer the Chaos Book: https://conquerthechaosbook.com/ Keap Playbook: https://www.keap.com/playbook

December 2, 2024Episode 24434 min

Transforming Lead Generation into Sales with Personal Connection (with Mike Schmidt and AJ Rivera)

The essence of genuine human connection in marketing is at risk of fading into oblivion. How do we build meaningful relationships in an age where a personal touch seems like an endangered species? On this episode we explore exactly that, diving into why cultivating relationships with leads is far more valuable than simply acquiring them. We’ve seen this landscape evolve drastically over the years. Gone are the days when a simple web design service could make you stand out. With no smartphones and Google still a fledgling entity in 2003, traditional methods held sway. Today, the rules have changed. If you're stuck relying on outdated tactics, you're not leveraging the immense potential that comes from nurturing leads into valued clients. Yet, knowing the difference between a cold lead and a ready-to-buy prospect is crucial in this equation. Not all leads are created equal, and treating them as such might just spell disaster for your business growth. The secret sauce lies in understanding the journey from lead to prospect and the importance of building relationships along the way. So often, businesses fall into the trap of thinking lead generation spells success. But what happens next? How do you transform a lead into a loyal prospect? It’s about more than just sales techniques—it’s about thoughtful communication and repeated, authentic messaging that builds trust over time. Joining us to shed light on these fascinating insights are Mike Schmidt and AJ Rivera, the dynamic duo behind Agency Coach, a coaching team using real world experience and expertise to propel digital agencies to unparalleled success. Their collective mission at Agency Coach is to revolutionize the agency landscape by equipping entrepreneurs with the tools, strategies, and mindset necessary to thrive in the ever-evolving digital sphere. Links Mentioned: http://agencycoach.com/moreperfect

November 18, 2024Episode 24332 min

Building Trust through Authentic and Ethical Marketing (with Cat Valverde)

What if I told you that the key to a successful marketing strategy might lie in something as simple, yet profound, as sticking to your values? On this episode we explore the revolutionary potential of ethical marketing with Cat Valverde, a marketing professional who turned a burnout moment into a powerful business driven by ethics, integrity, and authenticity. These days marketing is often treated with skepticism, so Cat’s approach is a breath of fresh air. Her story is deeply personal and rooted in a quest for authenticity. Cat believes that intertwining personal values with business practices is not only possible but essential for long-term success. This is a topic worth considering, especially if you are tired of the cutthroat, often unscrupulous tactics that have come to define much of the marketing landscape. With joy in her heart, a Harvard MBA in progress and over $5 million in direct revenue created for clients to date; Cat Valverde is excited to laugh, take a deep breath and crack open the spreadsheets with us. Her focus is digital revenue strategy in the post-ads economy. She's most curious about the part we tend to talk about least in the digital business space: How's it (really) going financially? Founder of Profeshh and a digital marketing expert, Cat is on a mission to bring transparency and fairness into the marketing world. Growing up knowing that her father pioneered the unsavory telemarketing scams of the '80s and '90s—schemes that preyed on the elderly and vulnerable—Cat developed a deep-seated commitment to ethical and equitable business practices. This background fuels Cat's passion for creating marketing programs built on transparency, trust, and authenticity. With her latest program, she helps small businesses reengage and reactivate their email lists, bringing tailored, data-driven strategies to help them thrive. She's most excited to connect with SaaS, course creation, agency and eCommerce teams. Cat believes that there's enough sunshine for everyone. No matter what the economy looks like. When you're dedicated to ethical marketing, equanimity and bring a unique impact to the marketplace, you win. She and her team at Profeshh are here today with real cashflow solutions that you can implement right now, at no cost. Links Mentioned: https://emailrevamp.com

November 4, 2024Episode 24233 min

The Power of Personal Stories in Modern Marketing (with Brad Bucceri)

Sometimes, it’s not what you’re selling but how you’re telling the story that determines success. For many businesses these days, standing out involves more than just showcasing a product's features. Consumers are becoming more sophisticated and selective, often looking for more than just the utilitarian aspects of what’s on offer. That's why integrating personal stories and emotional connections into your business can make all the difference. These stories resonate with your audience on a deeper level, forging bonds that transcend mere transactions. On this episode of More Perfect Marketing, I’m joined by Brad Bucceri, who shares an incredible insight into the power of emotional storytelling in business marketing and how it can redefine success. Brad Bucceri, a seasoned marketing expert, has dedicated many years to the world of marketing, guiding small business owners through the evolving landscape of digital platforms. Frustrated by the complacency instilled by the Internet, Brad believes traditional unique selling propositions (USPs) have lost their impact. His mission is to educate entrepreneurs on the importance of standing out in a crowded market, not by claiming superiority, but by showcasing their unique identity. Through his work, Brad aims to transform marketing strategies, helping businesses position themselves as the only choice for their target audience. Links Mentioned: Find Brad Bucceri on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/bradbucceri

October 28, 2024Episode 24136 min

Middle of the Funnel Marketing Excellence (with Brandi Starr)

Many businesses overlook the crucial middle phase of the sales funnel, fixating instead on attracting new leads or closing sales. But, neglecting the middle can lead to missed opportunities and wasted efforts. By focusing on the middle of the funnel (MoFu), you can refine leads and ensure smoother transitions to the final purchase decision, ultimately boosting your conversion rates. On this episode I explore the significance of the middle of the sales funnel and how businesses can effectively engage with prospects during this critical phase. The middle of the funnel acts as a bridge between initial engagement and the final sale, nurturing leads to ensure they are ready to convert. By maintaining continuity and delivering relevant communications at every stage of the buyer's journey, businesses can significantly enhance their chances of successful conversions. Joining me in this exploration is Brandi Starr, a marketing powerhouse with over 20 years of experience shaking up B2B and B2B2C companies. As COO at Tegrita, a consultancy that unlocks the power of email, she's all about transforming processes, enhancing go-to-market strategies, and ensuring smooth customer experiences. Named one of the Top 50 Women in MarTech, Brandi blends strategic vision with operational savvy. She's also the co-author of "CMO to CRO" and the host of the Revenue Rehab podcast, known for turning ideas into action and inspiring others in the marketing world. Links Mentioned: revenuerehab.live tegrita.com