My Weekly Marketing

40 Episodes
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By: Janice Hostager

Join conversations about marketing, business, and life-in-between with marketing strategist Janice Hostager and a variety of world-class entrepreneurs! We will fill you with step-by-step training, marketing strategy, and life experiences from where life and business intersect.  We'd love to have you join the fun! 

How to Fix Your Marketing with One Simple Shift
#106
Last Tuesday at 12:00 AM

It’s easy to feel like you’re doing all the marketing things: reels, blogs, freebies, but still not seeing meaningful results. In this episode, I dig into why that happens and how building tactics without strategy keeps you stuck in place. It’s not about working harder, but about building momentum.

I introduce my Trail to the Sale™ framework, which outlines eight key stages of the customer journey: Awareness, Consider, Compare, Evaluate, Sell, Supersize, Serve, and Send. Unlike traditional sales funnels, this approach reflects how people actually buy, and keeps the relationship going after the sale, where lo...


Starting a Business Over 50: Why NOW Is the Perfect Time
#105
04/29/2025

Starting a business after 50 isn’t a limitation. It might actually be your biggest advantage. In this episode, we explore the rise of "encore entrepreneurs" and why more people are choosing to start businesses later in life. Confidence, clarity, and a lifetime of skills can all become powerful foundations for entrepreneurship.

We talk about how to recognize the value of what you already know, whether it’s managing people, solving problems, or building strong relationships, and how to apply that to running a business. This stage of life can offer emotional resilience, clearer priorities, and a deep sens...


How to Brand Your Small Business with Kylie Kullack
#104
04/22/2025

What really makes a brand stand out... and stick? In this episode, I get to chat with branding expert Kylie Kullack, Head of Client Engagement at Struck, about how small business owners can create a brand that truly reflects who they are and how they want to be perceived. Kylie shares insights on building trust, showing up consistently, and creating a brand experience that feels intentional and aligned with your values.

If branding feels overwhelming or unclear, this conversation will help you take a step back and refocus. Kylie’s practical approach offers a clear starting point an...


PR and SEO for Your Small Business with Chris Panteli
#103
04/15/2025

Getting press coverage and improving your search visibility might seem out of reach for small businesses, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, I’m joined by Chris Panteli of Linkify to talk about how small business owners can approach PR and SEO with simple, practical steps.

We chat about what helps your business stand out to journalists, why certain details on your website matter more than you think, and how visibility and credibility go hand in hand. If you’ve been curious about how PR fits into your marketing strategy, this one’s worth a...


Why Your Email Marketing Isn't Working and What to Do About It
#102
04/08/2025

Are your marketing emails not getting the results you want? With billions of emails sent every day, the real challenge isn’t whether email marketing works—it’s making sure yours stands out.

In this episode, I’m sharing simple, effective ways to improve your emails, from designing for mobile readers to writing content that people actually want to open and read. We’ll also talk about email deliverability, tracking what’s working, and making small tweaks that can lead to big improvements. If your open rates are low or your click-throughs need a boost, this episode is for you!<...


How to Handle Objections in Sales and Close the Deal
#101
04/01/2025

Handling sales objections can be frustrating, but it’s a skill every business owner needs to master. When a customer hesitates, it’s easy to assume they’re just not interested or that price is the problem. But the truth is, objections are often a sign that someone is still considering your offer. They just need more reassurance before saying yes. In this episode, I’m breaking down what’s really going on when people push back and how to uncover the deeper concerns hiding behind objections.

I’ll share practical strategies to handle price pushback, tackle emotional fe...


What I've Learned About Podcasting After 100 Episodes
#100
03/26/2025

I can’t believe we’ve hit 100 episodes! When I started this podcast, I wasn’t sure I’d make it past the first few. As someone who wasn’t exactly confident about committing to weekly content, the idea of sticking with it felt overwhelming. But now, 100 episodes later, I’m reflecting on what kept me going, what I’ve learned, and how this journey has shaped me as a host and a marketer.

If you’ve ever thought about starting a podcast (or any kind of content for your business), I’m sharing the honest truth about what worked...


How Disney's Secrets Can Elevate Your Business with Vance Morris
#99
03/19/2025

Disney is known for unforgettable customer experiences, but what if you could bring that same magic into your own business? Vance Morris, a former Disney leader turned entrepreneur, shares how the company’s systems, attention to detail, and customer-first mindset can help small businesses stand out. He explains how to create a consistent experience, build strong customer relationships, and turn everyday interactions into something memorable.

We also talk about the power of systems, the role of storytelling in marketing, and simple ways to wow customers without breaking the bank. If you want practical, straightforward strategies for improving cu...


Marketing Systems and Strategies for Success with Austin LaRoche
#98
03/11/2025

Marketing isn’t just about creativity; it’s about having the right systems in place. In this episode, Austin LaRoche, CEO of ATAK Interactive, shares his journey from intern to agency leader and the lessons he’s learned along the way. He explains why structured marketing strategies matter, how B2B and B2C marketing differ, and why customer segmentation is key to reaching the right audience.

We also discuss the balance between creativity and clarity in advertising, the power of personal stories in shaping marketing strategies, and how businesses can craft messages that truly connect. If you're...


Understanding Consumer Behavior with Adam Ortman
#97
03/05/2025

Why do people buy what they buy? Consumer psychology shapes marketing more than we realize. In this episode, Adam Ortman, founder of Kinetic319, shares how small business owners can use psychology to create stronger marketing messages. He explains what drives customer decisions, how brands build trust, and simple ways to make marketing more effective.

If you’ve ever wondered why certain ads or brands just click with their audience, this episode will be an eye-opener. Adam and I discuss how to use psychology in marketing the right way without gimmicks or shady tactics—just strategies that help busi...


Unconventional Marketing Strategies with Victoria Hajjar
#96
02/25/2025

Marketing advice can feel repetitive, but does it actually work? Victoria Hajjar, founder of Ugli Ventures, shares unconventional marketing strategies that challenge the usual playbook. She shares why small business owners struggle with social media, how to stop wasting time on things that don’t matter, and what to focus on instead.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by social media or frustrated by marketing that doesn’t seem to work, this episode is for you. Victoria breaks down a smarter, more practical approach that helps you get results without the frustration.

Send us a text<...


Overcoming Your Fear of Video Marketing with Nick Niehaus
#95
02/18/2025

Video marketing can feel overwhelming. Between setting up equipment, figuring out what to say, and the fear of seeing yourself on screen, it’s easy to put it off. But according to Nick Niehaus, CEO of Business Video School, video is one of the most powerful ways to connect with your audience. In this episode, he shares why video marketing is worth the effort, how to get past the fear of being on camera, and simple ways to ease into creating videos without overcomplicating the process.

If you’ve been avoiding video because it feels too intimidating, this...


Lead Nurturing Strategies with Jason Kramer
#94
02/11/2025

Following up with leads can feel like a guessing game. How often should you reach out? What should you say? And how do you stay on their radar without being pushy? In this episode, Jason Kramer, CEO of Cultivize, shares his insights on lead nurturing and why it’s so much more than just sending follow-up emails. He breaks down the key elements of a solid nurturing strategy, from staying top-of-mind to using the right tools to track engagement.

We talk about real-world examples, practical tips, and simple ways to turn cold leads into loyal customers. If yo...


Building an Irresistible Website Homepage
#93
02/04/2025

Your homepage is like the trailer for your website; it needs to grab attention and set the tone for what’s inside. In this episode, I’m sharing why it’s best to design your homepage last and what elements are essential to make it clear and engaging for your visitors.

I’ll also talk about some tips for keeping things simple yet effective, like how to guide visitors toward their next step and the role your homepage plays in connecting with your audience. If you’re starting fresh or updating your website, this episode offers practical advice to...


How Much Should You Spend on Marketing?
#92
01/28/2025

In this episode, I break down the important numbers you need to know, like customer acquisition costs and lifetime value, and explain how to use them to set a budget that works for your business. It’s all about making smart choices to ensure your marketing spend is being put to good use.

I also talk about some of the common challenges businesses face when budgeting for marketing and share a few practical tips to help you avoid those pitfalls. This episode is perfect for anyone looking to get a clearer picture of their marketing spend and ma...


Why Every Entrepreneur Needs a Peer Group with Kelly Berry
#91
01/22/2025

Feeling stuck or isolated as a solopreneur? In this episode, we talk with Kelly Berry, a mastermind facilitator who helps small business owners build supportive peer groups. Kelly shares how these groups provide accountability, fresh perspectives, and a sense of community, making the challenges of running a business a lot less lonely.

We also discuss how peer networks tackle real problems like cash flow struggles, hiring decisions, and even navigating social media. Kelly’s insights will inspire you to embrace collaboration and peer support. Listen in to see how connecting with others can make a big difference fo...


Mastering SEO for Small Businesses with Rachel Lindteigen
#90
01/15/2025

What if I told you SEO doesn’t have to be as complicated as it seems? In this episode, I sit down with Rachel Lindteigen from Etched Marketing to talk about SEO or Search Engine Optimization, and why it’s something every business should be paying attention to. Rachel shares simple, practical tips to help you get started and take the stress out of the process.

We also talk about some common SEO mistakes people make and how to avoid them. If you’ve been curious about SEO or want to understand it better, this episode is the pe...


Mastering Video Storytelling with Lauren Magenta
#89
01/08/2025

I had the pleasure of interviewing Lauren Magenta, who shared some amazing insights on brand storytelling. Lauren is a talented digital creator specializing in social strategy and coaching for small businesses. She’s the founder of the "Own Your Brand" mentorship program, a six-week course that helps small business owners share their stories and connect with their audience in a meaningful way. Her passion and expertise make her an invaluable resource for anyone looking to grow their brand.

In this episode, Lauren is just bursting with energy and passion for this topic, which made for a super fu...


Top Marketing Strategies from 2024
#88
01/01/2025

In this episode, we’ll discuss the top marketing strategies that made a real impact in 2024. If you’re ready to level up your marketing, we’ve got practical tips to help you grow your business and connect with your audience in a way that works. Whether you’re feeling stuck or simply looking for fresh ideas, this episode is for you!

We’ll cover everything from building consistency and understanding your ideal customers to embracing video and repurposing content. We’ll also dive into the power of storytelling and how crafting compelling narratives can set your brand apart...


Succession Planning for Your Small Business with Jonathan Baker
#87
12/17/2024

Unexpected changes can happen at any moment, and having an exit strategy for your business is essential to avoid losing out on potential value. After my own journey of unexpectedly relocating and having to close my design agency, leaving money on the table, I realized the importance of having a plan. In this episode, I'm joined by Jonathan Baker, who offers valuable insights on how you can maximize the value of your business when it's time to move on. Together, we explore options beyond simply selling, such as revenue-sharing agreements and the concept of an "earn-out," ensuring you're equipped...


Planning for the New Year - Part Two
#86
12/10/2024

In this episode, we're diving into part two of our 2025 planning series. We start by mapping out a strategic roadmap for the new year, setting ambitious revenue goals, and building resilience into our businesses. If you haven't listened to part one, where we reflected on 2024 and realigned our visions, be sure to check it out. Here, we'll talk about practical steps like organizing your annual calendar, setting quarterly focuses, and planning for unexpected challenges.

We're also going to discuss the importance of deep work and how to schedule it into your busy life. Learn tips for creating...


Planning for the New Year - Part One
#85
12/03/2024

In this episode of My Weekly Marketing, we're kicking off part one of a two-part series focused on planning for 2025. It's never too late to get your strategy in place. We'll walk through a comprehensive, step-by-step framework designed to help you reflect on 2024, understand what worked and what didn’t, and set clear, actionable goals for the new year. This isn't just another motivational talk—it's about making real progress with practical advice and exercises that can significantly impact your business.

We'll cover everything from financial performance and marketing metrics to personal goals and well-being. There's a lot...


Managing Your Brand on Google with Jason Barnard
#84
11/26/2024

How much control do you really have over your brand’s online presence? In this episode, we’re joined by Jason Barnard, CEO and founder of Kalicube, to uncover the strategies behind shaping how Google perceives your brand. Jason is an expert in helping people and businesses take charge of their digital narrative, and he’s sharing tips that anyone can put to use.

From managing Google Knowledge Panels to refining your digital footprint, this conversation is packed with actionable advice to help you build a stronger, more consistent online identity. Jason’s practical, down-to-earth approach makes it easy...


How to Be an Exceptional Podcast Guest with Michelle Glogovac
#83
11/19/2024

Ever thought about being a guest on a podcast? It's not as simple as it seems. In this episode, I chat with Michelle Glogovac, a podcasting pro who literally wrote the book on the subject: How To Get on Podcasts. We dive into what it takes to land a guest spot and how to make the most of it.

We get to talk about crafting a pitch that gets noticed, prepping for the interview, and even what to do after the recording stops. Michelle shares some fantastic insights and practical tips, so if you've ever...


How to Create a Last-Minute Holiday Promotion
#82
11/12/2024

In this episode, we're exploring the essentials of planning a last-minute holiday promotion. Whether you're a coach, designer, or small business owner, I'll guide you through creating a compelling holiday campaign from scratch. We'll cover everything from choosing your core offer to setting up your website, social media, and email marketing to ensure your promotion is a success.

Join me as I share practical, step-by-step advice to help you engage your audience and drive sales during the holiday season. We'll discuss how to keep your followers excited with fresh content and limited-time offers, ensuring you wrap up...


Marketing Strategy for the Overwhelmed Entrepreneur
#81
11/05/2024

Feeling overwhelmed with your marketing strategy? In this episode, I dive deep into the chaos of marketing for small business owners. With over three decades of experience, I've learned the ins and outs of the marketing world and share my personal journey from feeling swamped to developing a structured approach. I introduce my unique Trail to the Sale™ framework, designed to simplify your marketing efforts and align them with your business goals. This episode is packed with practical advice, from understanding your ideal customer to creating content pillars and prioritizing revenue-generating activities.

I break down my tried-and-true me...


Print Marketing for Small Business with Jessica Embree
#80
10/29/2024

In this episode, I chat with Jessica Embree, a creative director at Tulip Media Group, to discuss the enduring value of print marketing for small businesses. We explore why print is still relevant in today’s digital age, highlighting its unique tangibility and credibility that can often get lost in the sea of digital ads. Jessica shares her journey into the world of print media and explains why it's a powerful tool for businesses looking to stand out and make a lasting impression.

We also delve into practical aspects of implementing print marketing strategies. Jessica offers insights on...


Creating a Social Media Strategy with Peg Fitzpatrick
#79
10/22/2024

Get ready for an engaging conversation with social media strategist Peg Fitzpatrick, where we break down what really makes a social media strategy work. Peg shares her journey from traditional marketing to mastering the digital world, offering valuable insights into how social media has evolved, especially from the early days of Facebook. She even talks about how she accidentally built her own personal brand, showing that success comes from smart strategy—not just hoping to go viral, especially when algorithms keep changing.

We also dig into the practical side of social media for small businesses looking to bo...


How to Write Blog Posts People Actually Read
#78
10/15/2024

Blogging can feel like just one more thing on your never-ending to-do list as a business owner, but is it still worth the time in 2024? Spoiler alert: yes, it is! In this episode, we’re diving into nine simple, actionable strategies to help you create blog posts your customers will actually want to read. From getting to know your audience and building content pillars to writing headlines that grab attention, you’ll get all the tips you need to turn your blog into a powerful tool for your business.

You’ll also learn how to make your conten...


Combating Burnout with Tammy McKinney
#77
10/08/2024

Most of us have been there. The long days of working and an endless to-do list  can take their toll on us as entrepreneurs. 

This episode is your essential guide to combating burnout and reclaiming your passion! Joined by seasoned business coach Tammy McKinney, we identify the subtle signs of burnout that often go unnoticed and differentiate them from temporary stress. Tammy opens up about her personal encounters with burnout, offering first-hand insights and practical strategies to help you stay balanced. We emphasize the critical importance of blending passion with pragmatism to safeguard your mental and emotional we...


Unlocking Business Growth Strategies with Jon Morris
#76
10/01/2024

Ever wondered how to transform a humble startup into a multimillion-dollar enterprise? Learn from Jon Morris, who turned a $10,000 investment into a $37 million digital marketing agency. Jon’s insights into incremental investments and long-term vision will redefine your approach to business growth. He also shares his latest exciting venture, Fiscal Advocate, a tech-enabled finance management company for professional service firms, emphasizing the power of leveraging financial data to drive smarter business decisions.

In this episode, we’ll examine the unique strategic decisions that can elevate your business to new heights. Jon shares...

How separating the roles of o...


How to Use AI for Marketing your Small Business with Rachel Hernandez
#75
09/26/2024

AI can do a LOT of things for your marketing, saving you time and money.  Uncover the practical ways AI can assist in generating content ideas, brainstorming, and streamlining your marketing efforts—while still preserving that essential human touch. My guest on this episode is Rachel Hernandez, Director of Marketing at Nextnet. 

In this episode, we talk about how to set up a brand voice and target customer profile in AI tools like ChatGPT to elevate your content quality and personalization. We'll discuss the fine balance between leveraging AI for drafts and ideas and the irreplaceable value of a...


How to Conduct a Competitor Analysis for Your Small Business
#74
09/17/2024

In the fast-paced world of business, keeping an eye on your competitors isn't just smart—it's essential. In this episode, we’re diving into the value of tracking your competitors and why it should be a key part of your marketing strategy.

Think of it like driving a car: you wouldn’t hit the road without checking your mirrors, right? Same goes for business! By understanding what your competitors are up to, you can stay ahead, spot opportunities, and make sure you're not missing out on any key moves in your industry. 

Join me as I share...


Boost Your Sales with Pinterest Ads with Sue Crites
#73
09/10/2024

Unlock powerful strategies for turning Pinterest into sales for your small business! In this episode, we welcome Sue Crites, Facebook and Pinterest Ad Strategist, who who gives us tips for mastering Pinterest advertising. Sue shares how to use organic Pinterest ad strategies to get results for your business. She breaks down how fresh content and strategic ad placements can skyrocket your email list and overall business growth.

We will also discuss the nuances of budget allocation, cost per acquisition, and customer lifetime value to optimize your ad spending effectively. Learn about the complementary roles of different platforms...


How to Develop a Strong Brand Identity: A Step-by-Step Guide
09/03/2024

Unlock the secrets to building a strong brand identity that’s more than just logos and looks. Join me as I walk you through the key elements that create a powerful brand. We’ll talk about visual and emotional components, the importance of recognition, trust, and connecting with your audience.

I’ll share insights from my experience at my design agency and explain why asking the right questions is essential before diving into visual branding. We’ll also discuss the differences between personal and corporate brands. Plus, I’ll share my journey from a corporate brand to a personal...


Small Business SEO Secrets with Nadin Thomson
#71
08/27/2024

Unlock the secrets to building your small business's online presence with our latest episode featuring SEO expert Nadin Thomson. 

Nadin breaks down SEO and compares it to following a recipe!  She explains how focusing on quality content and customer questions can set you apart from the competition. She also brings in the wisdom of Marcus Sheridan's "They Ask You Answer" and highlight the pivotal roles of metadata and image tagging in boosting your search rankings.

Our conversation is rich with practical advice, from incorporating multimedia elements like screen-recorded videos and voice recordings into your blog, to...


Mastering Video Marketing for Small Businesses with Knives Monroe
#70
08/20/2024

Unlock the secrets of video marketing with the masterful insights of Knives Monroe in this week’s episode of Weekly Marketing. Discover how Knives' remarkable journey—from finding a camera in a trash can to establishing his own video production company, Indie Darlings—can inspire your own video content strategies. 

Learn why video is an unparalleled tool for communication and storytelling, especially for small businesses and personal brands. Knives shares actionable tips for beginners, including the power of educational content and client testimonials to boost your business growth.

We'll also cover:

Short-form video, offering practic...


Mastering Your Brand Voice with Voice Actor Jodi Krangle
#69
08/13/2024

Ever wonder how a brand's voice can make or break its image? Today, we're diving into a literal take on "brand voice" and revealing the secrets of voice actor Jodi Krangle. She masters the feel and sound of a brand, transforming words into captivating voiceovers that connect audiences to the brands.

Jodi is an accomplished voice actor whose voice has branded advertising campaigns for Dell, Bose, Subway, Lindt Chocolate, and many other brands. 

In this episode, we'll explore what audio elements are needed to create a cohesive brand identity that resonates emotionally with audiences. 


How to Publish a Book with Nicole Frail
#68
08/06/2024

Ever wondered how to turn your passion and experience for your business into a successful book? It may not be out of reach as you think!

Join us to learn how to publish a book with Nicole Frail, CEO of Nicole Frail Edits. Nicole shares the incredible story of how she transitioned from a job editing test prep materials to a pivotal role at Skyhorse Publishing. And her journey as she  balanced freelancing with a full-time job before opening her own editing company.

Nicole shares the critical steps from taking a book idea to a p...


Top Lessons from 1,000 Entrepreneurs with Eric Holtzclaw
#67
07/30/2024

Entrepreneurship is certain to come with a fair amount of ups and downs. Actually, who are we kidding...it's a white-knuckled roller coaster ride!

Join us as we sit down with Eric Holtzclaw, a visionary Chief Strategist and Principal Partner at Liger Partners in Atlanta, GA.

With nearly 30 years of experience and founder of multiple successful startups,  Eric brings a wealth of knowledge on creativity, disruption, and the real grind behind small business success. You'll gain insights into his creation of a marketing agency and the critical importance of adaptability and seizing new opportunities.