The Field Guide by BizMarketing

In this episode, we sit down with Mark Midkiff, Vice President of Architextures, to trace an extraordinary 45-year journey in specialty construction. From transforming a modest family business into a leader in acoustic wall systems, Mark shares pivotal moments—from breakthrough projects to the delicate art of delegation and succession planning.

Hear how a father-son handoff and a heartfelt philosophy of kindness have helped shape a resilient, respected brand in the Pacific Northwest and beyond.

After 13 years as “bizmktg.com,” we finally secured the name that always felt like ours—BizMarketing. In this episode, Peter and Emily share the behind-the-scenes story of our rebrand, what prompted the change, the near-miss with "Get BizMarketing," and why sometimes it’s better to be clear than clever. 

If you're a business owner thinking about a rebrand—or even just refining your brand—this episode offers practical insight. We break down what triggered our change, the process we followed, lessons we learned, and why clarity in branding matters more than being clever. 

Peter sits down with Stephen Steers, author of "Superpower Storytelling," to explore the power of storytelling in sales and business. Stephen, who combines his experience as a sales consultant and stand-up comedian, shares his journey from near-death construction worker to successful entrepreneur, and reveals his proven frameworks for effective storytelling in business.

Stephen shares the three hidden stories every business possesses—and how to use them to win customers. He also details his "Magnificent Seven" reasons why people buy, and the four essential questions to ask before telling any story. He offers practical insights on how to co...

Peter showcases how he used Google’s NotebookLM, an AI tool that simplifies podcast creation. The first part explains the process of generating a podcast episode using NotebookLM, where he pulled information from various sources, including YouTube videos. He highlights how the tool synthesizes content based on specific prompts.

The second part features the podcast created by NotebookLM, centered on Allan Dib's book, The 1-Page Marketing Plan. Peter discusses key marketing strategies for small business owners, including identifying the ideal customer, crafting effective messaging, and developing a lead capture system.

Join them for practical insights an...

In this episode of Biz & Life Done Well, Peter sits down with Michael Thompson, author of "Shy by Design: 12 Timeless Principles to Quietly Stand Out." Michael shares his journey from a shy, stuttering child to a successful career coach and author.

Key topics they discussed:

- Michael's background and motivation for writing "Shy by Design"
- The power of curiosity in personal and professional growth
- Building meaningful connections through small, intentional actions
- Embracing one's natural tendencies rather than trying to fit a preconceived mold
- Strategies for networking and...

Standing out from the competition can feel like an uphill battle. Whether you're struggling to craft the perfect sales pitch or wondering how to position yourself as a trusted advisor rather than just another vendor, listen up! 

Join Peter Wilson, President of bizmktg.com, and Chris Goldman, Marketing Strategist and Business Coach, as they reveal the secrets to creating sales pitches that not only resonate but win.

Peter and Chris dive into April Dunford’s must-read book *Sales Pitch: How to Craft a Story to Stand Out and Win*. The...

Peter sits down with Paul Sanneman, founder of Contractor Staffing Source. Paul shares his expertise on solving one of the biggest challenges facing the construction industry today: finding and retaining quality employees.

Key takeaways from this episode include:

- The importance of continuous recruitment in the construction industry

- Debunking common hiring myths that hold contractors back

- Leveraging AI and modern tools to streamline the hiring process

- Creating compelling job ads that attract top talent

- The value of...

🚨 Attention Business Owners: Don't Fall for Domain Listing Scams! 🚨
In this episode, we expose a recurring scam targeting businesses - domain listing services that solicitation letters that look like invoices. Learn how to protect your company from unnecessary expenses and misleading offers.

Key topics covered:
Recent examples of domain listing scams (Domain Listings, LLC and Domain Directory, LLC)
How these scams operate and why they provide little to no value
Red flags to watch out for in suspicious mail and invoices

Consider these legitimate (often free) alternatives for business listings:
Google...

Becoming A Self-Reliant Leader with Author Jan Rutherford

Peter sits down with Jan Rutherford, a former Green Beret turned executive coach and author, to discuss his new book "Becoming a Self-Reliant Leader: How Grit and Discipline Forge Indomitable Teams."

Rutherford shares his unique journey from military service to the corporate world, emphasizing how his experiences shaped his leadership philosophy. He introduces the concept of "crucible expeditions," intense outdoor leadership experiences that form the backbone of his leadership development approach.

Key topics include:

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In this behind-the-scenes look, Peter Wilson, host of the “Biz and Life Done Well” podcast, walks you through the tools and processes used to create podcast episodes. Peter showcases powerful software solutions including Descript for transcription and editing, Auphonic for audio processing, and AI tools like Claude for content analysis.

Whether you’re a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, this video offers valuable insights into streamlining your podcast production workflow, from recording to publishing. Learn how to leverage AI for generating episode descriptions and titles, and discover the secrets behind six years of successful podcasting.

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Peter Wilson is joined by Emily Caddell, the director of marketing at bizmktg.com. They dive into real-world business challenges shared by their listeners and offer insightful solutions to help take their businesses to the next level.

Peter and Emily address the following listener challenges:

Join Peter Wilson as he sits down with Kirk and Donna Gronvold, the husband and wife team behind Blue Water Design Build, a Seattle-based design-build firm specializing in home renovations and remodels. In this engaging episode, Kirk and Donna share their passion for transforming outdated homes into beautiful, functional spaces that families love.

Discover the origin of the Blue Water name and how Kirk's love of fishing inspired it. Learn about the couple's design-build philosophy, which focuses on understanding how clients live in their homes in order to create spaces that flow and function optimally for each...

Peter interviews Jake Flothe, in-house counsel for Resource Transition Consultants (RTC), a company specializing in receivership services. Jake explains the concept of receivership, an alternative to bankruptcy that involves either turning around distressed businesses or liquidating their assets. 

Jake highlights the cost-effectiveness and streamlined nature of receivership compared to traditional bankruptcy. He shares insights into the process, including voluntary and involuntary receiverships, and the motivations behind choosing this route. He also delves into the types of work RTC handles, emphasizing their diverse expertise in lending, business management, and operations. 

The conversation touches on specific ca...

Peter interviews Lillyan Hendershot, the Art Director and Co-Founder of The Branding Iron. In this episode, Peter and Lillyan reminisce about their shared history, from their early days working together to the growth of their respective businesses. Discover how Lillyan transitioned from a fine arts background to graphic design and entrepreneurship, and learn about the diverse range of services The Branding Iron offers. This episode is filled with insights on networking, the importance of a physical office, and the evolution of business post-COVID. Tune in for inspiring stories of perseverance, community involvement, and the ever-evolving world of branding and...

Step into a world of transformation with this episode of 'Biz and Life Done Well.' Peter sits down with Todd Goodwin, a seasoned hypnotist who unlocks the deeper potential of the human mind. Todd shares fascinating insights into how hypnosis can gently guide us through our inner landscapes to heal past traumas and reshape our lives.

Whether you're dealing with stress, anxiety, or just looking for a new way to approach life's challenges, this conversation offers practical solutions for personal growth. Perfect for anyone looking to find balance and enhance their wellbeing, this episode is a...

Join us as we explore Allan Dib's groundbreaking approach in his new book, "Lean Marketing." Building on the success of his bestselling "The 1-Page Marketing Plan," Allan introduces the concept of streamlining marketing efforts to maximize efficiency and minimize waste, similar to lean manufacturing principles. Throughout the webinar, he highlights the importance of avoiding "random acts of marketing" by implementing a focused strategy that aligns closely with business goals. Allan shares personal stories and practical advice, urging small businesses to adopt a lean approach for more impactful and efficient marketing outcomes.

Peter's guest is JC Fawcett, President of Defensive Driving School, the largest driving school in Washington State. In this episode JC details the foundational narrative of his business, from acquiring a faltering driving school to navigating complex challenges and regulatory landscapes to foster growth and stability.

This discussion delves into JC's business philosophies, his proactive approaches to overcoming operational challenges, and his commitment to exceptional customer service. Gain insights into the strategic decisions that propelled Defensive Driving School to the forefront of the industry and the lessons learned along the way. 

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Chris Rafoth of Lyons Creek Dental Care, located at the edge of Seattle and Shoreline. Dr. Rafoth shares his unexpected journey from studying marine biology to becoming a passionate dentist, the influences that shaped his career, and his commitment to patient care. He discusses the importance of technology in modern dentistry, his personal interests in outdoor activities, and how these experiences enrich his approach to dental care. Dr. Rafoth also touches on the challenges of navigating the healthcare system and his vision for the future of his practice. Join us for a...

In this episode, Peter is joined by Natalie Foskey, owner of Key Choice Commercial Real Estate, and Chris Goldman from bizmktg.com. Natalie shares her unique path from her family's farm in Canada to leading a commercial real estate business in Lynnwood, Washington. She discusses the pivotal moments of her career, including purchasing and rebranding the company to better reflect its values and direction under her leadership.

Hear about the challenges and successes of running a commercial real estate company, from property management to navigating the market shifts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Natalie...

"Beyond the Pickle Part 2 - More Stories of Exceptional Customer Care" explores the depth of customer service through real-world anecdotes. Peter and Emily share insightful stories illustrating how businesses can significantly impact their customers with thoughtful gestures. 

Emily recounts her experiences at a Boston brew pub that recognized her and her husband by name, creating a sense of belonging and community. This personal touch included customized mugs for regular patrons, underscoring the pub's dedication to making customers feel special and valued.

Peter shares a memorable story about Kenneth Wood, owner of Woodson's Aberdeen (Scotland), who d...

In this brief episode we slice into the story of a unique steak restaurant that takes customer appreciation to the next level. Following the customer service mantra coined by Bob Farrell, "give them the pickle," this restaurant engraves the names of their repeat customers on a steak knife, offering a personalized touch that turns dining into a memorable experience. Join us as we explore how this innovative gesture not only celebrates customer loyalty but also sets a new standard in creating lasting connections and unforgettable moments.

This episode is a follow-up to episode 101 "Give ‘Em The Pickle – A Ta...

Peter sits down with David Willoughby, a driving force at the intersection of technology and high school sports. David has been involved with Washington state high school athletics and programs since 2007 with the WPA Network. He is currently with Playon! Sports, a nationwide company that is revolutionizing high school sports and activities by introducing advanced solutions for scheduling, marketing, digital ticketing, and live streaming.

David shares his journey from capturing the spirit of high school sports through photography to leading advertising efforts that support school programs across Washington State. Hear how Play On Sports leverages digital platforms...

In this episode, Peter reviews Bob Farrell's story of transforming a customer's disappointment into a legacy of exceptional service with a simple pickle.

This story isn't just about pickles; it's about those little extras that make customers do the happy dance.

Key Takeaways:

In the 100th episode of the “Business and Life Done Well” podcast, Peter reflects on key lessons learned through the journey of producing 99 episodes. He shares insights on starting before feeling fully ready, the importance of listening over speaking, and the transformative power of editing. The episode highlights the diverse range of topics covered, from marketing to personal stories of entrepreneurs, emphasizing the value of persistence, accountability, and continuous learning. 

One of Peter’s favorite episodes features Doug Lofstrom. Doug shares his story of beginning his professional painting career at the age of 79.
Episode 9 with Doug Loftstr...

Peter's guest is Erich Meltvedt of Integrity Media. Together we delve into why video marketing is more crucial than ever for businesses in 2024. We discuss how video, with its dynamic storytelling capabilities, significantly enhances customer engagement and brand recall. The video also addresses emerging trends and techniques, providing valuable strategies for businesses to effectively adapt and thrive in the digital era. Join us to understand the transformative power of video in today's competitive market.

Claim the $3,500 video and 1PMP offer by booking a consultation here:

https://bizmktg.com/contact-bizmktg-com

Peter and Erich will...

In this episode of "Biz and Life Done Well," Peter dives into the unexpected value of small clients, whom he affectionately calls 'squirrels.' He shares his personal experiences to illustrate how these smaller clients are essential to a business's long-term success and might even become 'buffalos.' The episode emphasizes the importance of appreciating every client, big or small. 

Now, we want to hear from you! We're looking for stories about your business experiences - the successes, the challenges, and even the humorous moments. Your stories are a valuable part of the business community, and we b...

In the third installment of our “Getting Started With The 1-Page Marketing Plan” Peter continues his conversation with Anne Garing of Anne Garing Coaching. In this episode we explore content strategies for capturing and nurturing leads for her leadership coaching business.

Their conversation delves into the power of client success stories, interactive content like webinars, and the importance of authentic engagement. They emphasize the significance of seasonal offers and personal gestures, like sending journals or stickers, to deepen client relationships. 

Content Strategy for Leadership Coaching: A Multi-Faceted Approach

Ann...

In this conversation with SEO expert Paul Lee, he challenges traditional beliefs about SEO, emphasizing that rankings are only part of the story, not the end goal. He suggests focusing on 'organic conversion optimization' rather than just search engine optimization, advocating for creating content that leads to actual conversions and customer engagement. 

The discussion, peppered with Paul's in-depth knowledge and experience, offered a fresh perspective on what SEO means for businesses today and how it's more than just about rankings.

SEO: Beyond Rankings

Traditionally, SEO has been a...

In this second installment of our series on "The 1-Page Marketing Plan" by Allan Dib, we're joined by Leadership Coach, Anne Garing and Chris Goldman, a Marketing Messaging Expert and Certified 1PMP Coach. The focus is on tailoring communication to resonate with young professionals and leaders. This episode strips away the jargon to offer genuine, actionable advice based on Dib's principles, highlighting the power of effective messaging in both personal and professional growth.

🎙️ In this episode of 'Biz and Life Done Well,' we dive deep into the world of a passionate and dedicated leadership coach, Anne Garing, who's on a mission to redefine her marketing strategy.

🤔 Feeling at her wits' end and craving authenticity, Anne grapples with the challenge of doubling her client base. Her tool of choice? The groundbreaking "1-Page Marketing Plan" (1PMP) by Allan Dib.
Join us for the first episode of this series as we conduct a detailed audit of her business, exploring her unique journey from a background in organizational development to establishing a thriving...

In this episode of the podcast, the bizmktg.com team members engage in a lively discussion about their favorite apps, each bringing their unique preferences to the table. Peter starts the conversation with his love for the Remarkable app, which enhances his note-taking experience. Marcel shares his enthusiasm for Adobe Creative Cloud, a suite vital for his creative work. Emily introduces listeners to Libby and Hoopla, her go-to apps for a vast library of audiobooks and eBooks. Ann, on the other hand, speaks highly of AnyList, an app she finds indispensable for organizing shopping lists and recipes.

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In this episode of our podcast, we take a moment to reflect and express gratitude in the spirit of Thanksgiving. Join us as we diverge from our usual topics to share what we, the team at bizmktg.com, are deeply thankful for. From cherished family moments to the unwavering support of our colleagues and clients, we dive into personal and professional aspects of our lives that bring us joy and fulfillment. This episode is not just about sharing our gratitude but also about celebrating the bonds that make our work and lives meaningful.

Listen in as the members of the bizmktg.com team discuss their favorite tools for their business and personal lives.

Here’s a breakdown of the tools mentioned in this episode:

Emily

Task Board (Google's version) - It's a work-related tool for task management that can be synced to both phone and computer, helping keep track of various tasks. It integrates with Google Tasks and Calendar too.

Daily Kairos Book - This is a personal tool, a helpful journal for daily thankfulness an...

The team at bizmktg.com took a few minutes to share their favorite new books…and a few of their all time classics too.

Here’s a list of the books mentioned in this episode:

1. “Remarkably Bright Creatures” by Shelby van Pelt.

2. “Ideal Team Player” by Patrick Lencioni.

3. “The Six Types of Working Genius” by Patrick Lencioni.

4. “Adrift” by Scott Galloway.

5. “American Prometheus: The Triumph and Tragedy of J. Robert Oppenheimer” by Kai Bird and Martin J. Sherwin.

6. “Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind” by Yuval Noa...

Join the bizmktg.com team as they discuss the movie "Her" and AI. 

In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, the movie "Her" serves as a poignant exploration of the relationship between humans and artificial intelligence (AI). The film delves into the emotional and ethical complexities that arise when a man forms a deep connection with his AI operating system. But how far are we from this fictional narrative becoming a reality?

The Emotional Depth of AI

As AI technologies like chatbots and virtual assistants become increasingly sophisticated, questions arise about their pot...

Tackling Marketing Overwhelm as a Business Owner

Feeling overwhelmed by the endless marketing options and strategies out there? Trust us, you're not alone. Marketing can feel like a maze, but it doesn't have to be. Let's break down how you can tackle "marketing overwhelm" and make the most out of key platforms.

Start with a 1-Page Marketing Plan
Before diving into the sea of marketing platforms, create a one-page marketing plan. It's your roadmap, helping you identify your target audience and core messaging. This simple document can be your north star, guiding you through...

How to Tackle Seasonality in Your Small Business: Marketing Tips

Seasonality can be a double-edged sword for small businesses, especially those in the home services industry like roofing, painting, and HVAC. While the peak season brings in a flood of business, the off-season can be a challenging time. But what if you could even out the peaks and valleys through effective marketing? In this blog post, we'll explore some actionable strategies to help you do just that.

Many small businesses in the home services sector experience a surge of...

Peter and marketing expert, Charlie White, discuss how narrowing down the focus of their marketing efforts to a specific niche can make marketing more effective. They talk about how this approach can lead to more productive conversations with potential clients, higher close rates, and the ability to charge more for tailored services.

In the business world, referrals are a potent catalyst for growth. They are not merely a byproduct of excellent service but a strategic resource that can be actively harnessed. The key to unlocking this potential lies in effectively asking for and stimulating these referrals, as demonstrated by real-world examples.

Consider the story of a company whose origin was rooted in providing a service for their grandmother. This experience led to the creation of their brand mantra: “Only the best for grandma.” This phrase became a part of their brand personality and informed their approach to customer service. It a...

In our latest podcast episode, we had an insightful conversation with Chris Goldman, a seasoned marketing strategist and business coach. The focus of our discussion was on the pivotal topic of increasing customer lifetime value, a key aspect of the 'after' section of the one-page marketing plan.

Chris emphasized the importance of transforming a customer base into a fan base. He highlighted the significance of providing a world-class experience that not only retains customers but also turns them into advocates for your business. This approach, he explained, is key to unlocking the continuous lifetime value that customers...