Rocky Mountain Marketing- Digital Marketing for Entrepreneurs

What does it really take to create content that not only ranks on Google but actually converts customers? With search algorithms constantly evolving, AI reshaping how people discover information, and attention spans shorter than ever, the traditional content marketing playbook simply doesn’t work the way it used to. In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with Andy Crestodina, co-founder of Orbit Media and author of Content Chemistry, to unpack what’s actually working in content marketing, SEO, and AI-driven discovery right now. Key Takeaways Timestamp: [00:00:00] – Introduction & Meet Andy Crestodina [00:02:45] – Biggest Content Marketing Shifts in 2025 [00:04:45] – LinkedIn Newsletters vs Email Lists [00:07:20] – Content That Actually Stands Out (Original Research & Thought Leadership) [00:10:20] – Why SEO Traffic Is Changing & The Rise of AI Search [00:14:20] – Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) & AI-Friendly Websites [00:18:20] – Using AI for Content Strategy, Research, and Marketing [00:29:00] – Turning Content Into Sales & Higher Conversions Content marketing today isn’t just about ranking on Google. It’s about building trust, demonstrating expertise, and creating resources that help buyers make decisions. When your content answers real questions and supports your sales conversations, it becomes far more valuable than simply driving traffic. If you want to learn how to create content that ranks, resonates, and converts, this episode with Andy Crestodina is one you won’t want to miss. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever felt weird sliding into someone’s DMs? Let’s be honest — direct messages can feel personal. Almost intrusive. And with LinkedIn spam and automated bots everywhere, it’s easy to assume that DM outreach is sleazy. But what if I told you that the DMs are actually where the magic happens? In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with Jenna Larson, co-founder of GroupTrack CRM, to talk about how entrepreneurs can turn organic social media engagement into real revenue — without ads, without going viral, and without a massive following. And the results? Over $1.2 million in revenue last year — zero ad spend. We unpack: Timestamps: [00:00:00] – Why DMs Feel Awkward (But Drive Sales) [00:04:30] – $1.2M with No Ads or Viral Posts [00:08:05] – Why Automation Alone Doesn’t Convert [00:10:40] – The First DM You Should Always Send [00:16:00] – The 1-Line DM That Triples Responses [00:19:00] – How to Uncover Needs Without Being Pushy [00:22:00] – The Simple Follow-Up That Closes Sales [00:24:50] – How to Start DM Conversations with Small Audiences [00:28:40] – Turning 900 Followers into Revenue [00:31:30] – Where to Learn the Organic DM System If you’re tired of “post and pray” marketing, this episode will completely shift how you see social media. Because the truth is — you don’t need more followers. You need better follow-up. Visit Jenna Larson's social media pages: Website: https://grouptrackcrm.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenna-larson-41659827/ Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if the algorithm disappeared tomorrow? What if Instagram shut down your account? What if LinkedIn throttled your reach? Would you still be able to reach your audience? In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sat down with Tracy Beavers, CEO and founder of Tracy Beavers Coaching, to talk about one of the most overlooked (yet powerful) marketing assets entrepreneurs have: your email list. Social media is visibility. But your email list? That’s ownership. Tracy and I unpack: If you’re building your business on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, or TikTok alone, this episode will shift your entire perspective. 5 Key Takeaways Listen now and start building a marketing strategy that protects your business long term. Timestamps: 00:00 The Algorithm Problem 00:49 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing 01:19 Meet Tracy Beavers 03:05 Why Email Lists Matter 06:02 When Social Media Fails 08:01 Escaping Facebook Jail 11:22 Starting Small Is Okay 14:25 Email vs Social Media 15:54 Realistic List Growth Goals 17:33 Creating Weekly Content 19:27 The Lead Magnet Strategy 21:33 Facebook Growth Strategies 22:26 Personal Profile Power 25:20 Business Pages for Social Proof 28:19 Best Lead Magnets Right Now 31:48 Connect with Tracy 33:17 Final Thoughts and Takeaways 34:25 Closing and Subscribe Visit Tracy Beavers online: Website: https://www.tracybeavers.com/ Facebook Group: https://tracybeavers.biz/bacekatiebpodcast The Social Media Made Easy Guide: Create 90 Days of Content Topics in Only 30 Minutes!: https://tracybeavers.biz/90in30katieb Create Online Success Podcast: https://www.tracybeavers.com/podcast Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if everything you thought you knew about social media marketing in 2026 was actually backwards? In this solo episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m breaking down the 2026 Social Media Content Strategy Report—and the data reveals something BIG. While 70% of marketers are prioritizing AI-generated content, consumers are asking for the exact opposite. They want real voices. Real connection. Real people. In this episode, I walk you through: If you’re a business owner trying to figure out where to spend your time, energy, and marketing budget this year, this episode will save you from expensive mistakes. Timestamps: 00:00 Everything You Know About 2026 Social Media Might Be Backwards 00:51 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing + What We’re Unpacking Today 01:21 Where Brands Are Investing in 2026 (Instagram, TikTok, YouTube, Facebook) 04:10 Facebook Isn’t Dead: Discovery, Service & Community (Plus What to Post) 05:57 Instagram’s New Role: Episodic Reels & Entertainment-First Strategy 07:15 YouTube’s Big Moment: Long-Form, Product Education & Video Podcasts 08:33 TikTok Reality Check: Gen Z, Search Behavior & Authenticity Wins 09:53 Quick Break: How NeXTSTEP Social Helps You Simplify Your Strategy 10:49 The AI Disconnect: Marketers Want Automation, Consumers Want Humans 12:18 Use AI for Social Intelligence (Not Just Content) + Why Podcasts Help 14:15 What Consumers Actually Want From Brands in 2026 (6 Must-Do’s) 15:59 Your 2026 Action Plan: Pick Platforms, Be Human, Engage More 18:38 Final Thoughts + Subscribe, Connect, and Get the Book Ready to simplify your strategy and amplify your results? Visit NextStepSocial.com to build a data-backed content strategy that actually works. Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’re feeling burned out on social media and tired of battling the algorithm, it’s time to consider building something you own—like Substack. In this episode, I’m joined by Jim Fuhs, a seasoned digital marketing strategist and Marine Corps veteran who’s gone all in on Substack. We unpack how this platform has evolved far beyond a newsletter and why it might be the most strategic move you can make in your marketing right now. Here’s what we cover in this episode: Timestamp: 00:00 Introduction to Substack and Its Relevance 01:10 Meet the Guest: Jim Fs 02:04 Jim's Journey with Substack 04:45 Exploring Substack's Features 09:05 Substack as a Multimedia Platform 14:38 Maximizing Substack's Potential 25:32 Common Mistakes and Best Practices 30:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 32:38 Outro and Call to Action Whether you’re a content creator, coach, or business owner, this episode will help you take control of your marketing strategy in 2026. Visit Jim Fuhs online: Substack: https://jimfuhs.substack.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimfuhs/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/dealcasters Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dealcasters/id1554420305 Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down once again with my business partner and COO, Shawn Quintero, to unveil something close to our hearts: our brand new podcast—Behind the Practice. We're pulling back the curtain on how we’ve evolved as an agency, and why this new podcast is more than just another show—it’s a strategic shift designed to serve the heart of our mission: helping health and wellness experts turn their practice into a powerful, revenue-generating brand. We dive into: Behind the Practice Timestamp: 00:00 Introduction and Announcement 00:34 Meet the Co-Owner: Sean Quintero 02:32 Behind the Practice: Concept and Purpose 03:48 Personal Stories and Impact 06:51 Target Audience and Unique Approach 09:11 Podcast as a Marketing Tool 24:32 Operationalizing Your Podcast 26:06 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Whether you're in the health and wellness space or an entrepreneur looking to scale your visibility, this episode is packed with insights you can use. Ready to see what’s Behind the Practice? Tune in now and discover how a podcast can become your most powerful business asset. Visit Shawn Quintero online: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heyshawnq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeyShawnQ/ Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I break down one of the most critical changes we’ve seen on TikTok in a while. With new ownership under the U.S.-based TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC, retrained algorithms, and updated Terms of Service, business owners and creators are rightfully asking: Should I still be investing time here? I walk you through what these updates mean, how to respond strategically, and the crucial distinction between your marketing content and your business assets. If TikTok is part of your growth strategy, this is a must-listen. 5 Key Takeaways: TikTok’s U.S. Ownership Shift:Retrained Algorithm, Real Impact:New Terms of Service:Don’t Use Social as a Storage Vault:Build an Exit Ramp Now: Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with my partner-in-purpose (and co-owner of Next Step Social), Shawn Quintero, to break down how we’re using Lunch and Learn workshops to bring business owners and their teams clarity, confidence, and actionable results—without sales pressure or shiny-object overwhelm. As we kick off 2026, we’re leaning into education-first marketing and showing business leaders how to activate their teams, build trust through content, and show up consistently on social—organically and strategically. 5 Key Takeaways: Lunch and Learns aren’t new—but we’ve modernized the modelThe Internal Influencer StrategyConfidence is the biggest ROI.It’s not a pitch.Clarity beats complexity. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: The Need for Clarity in Marketing 00:52 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing 01:21 Meet Sean Ero: COO and Co-Owner of NeXTSTEP Social 02:02 The Concept of Lunch and Learns 02:32 The Evolution and Impact of Lunch and Learns 03:27 Training Staff to Leverage Social Media 03:59 The Role of Internal Influencers 04:42 Hands-On Training and Immediate Results 05:36 Education-First Marketing Philosophy 06:10 Differentiating Our Lunch and Learns 06:48 Bridging the Education Gap and Accelerating Sales 09:29 Empowering Teams with Clarity and Confidence 12:20 Balancing Education and Sales 15:26 Building Trust and Relationships 20:28 Conclusion: The Power of Clarity and Relationships 21:29 Outro: Stay Connected and Keep Learning Visit Shawn Quintero online: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heyshawnq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeyShawnQ/ Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I sat down with Lianna Patch, a conversion copywriter and comedian, to talk about what really makes content convert in 2026—humor, voice, and human connection. With so much AI-generated content out there, the businesses that win are the ones who sound like themselves. We dive into practical ways to make your copy more engaging, where AI fits into the mix, and why the funniest brands tend to be the most memorable. Key Takeaways: you Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to Engaging Copywriting 00:51 Meet Our Guest: Leanna Patch 02:07 The Role of Humor in Marketing 03:21 AI vs. Human Copywriting 04:42 Using Humor Effectively in Copy 06:22 Challenges and Opportunities with AI 08:26 Practical Tips for Better Copywriting 18:06 Upcoming Workshop and Resources 23:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Whether you’re writing email funnels or social captions, this episode is your permission slip to sound like a human again. Visit Lianna Patch's social media pages: Website: https://punchlinecopy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liannapatch Wanna have more fun on stage? https://punchlinecopy.com/speak-funny-training/ Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://yournextstep.agency/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this solo episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I’m diving into something that’s been on every entrepreneur’s mind this year: do goals still matter in 2026? The world is changing fast, and with the rise of AI, shifting priorities, and burnout creeping in, it’s easy to lose sight of your direction. But here’s the truth: goals still matter—when you know how to set them right. I’ll share how to: directional goals Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: Embracing the Uncertainty of Goal Setting 00:38 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing 01:08 The Reality of Goal Setting in 2026 04:29 The Importance of Writing Down Goals 09:33 Setting Directional Goals 10:34 Marketing Goals for 2026 11:39 Behavior Goals: The Key to Consistency 14:23 The Role of AI in Achieving Goals 20:28 Final Thoughts: Protecting Your Time and Staying Focused 21:54 Conclusion and Call to Action If you’re looking to reclaim your focus, strengthen your strategy, and finally commit to what matters this year, this episode is for you. Let’s reset your strategy for 2026 and start taking aligned action—together. Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://yournextstep.agency/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As 2025 wraps up, I’m taking you behind the data to reveal the top 10 most downloaded episodes of Rocky Mountain Marketing this year—and the biggest theme that kept emerging: trust-first strategy over trends. In this year-end special, you’ll hear from brilliant guests like Gordon Firemark, Megan Dougherty, Mike Swenson, Lisanne Murphy, Sarah Nay, and more. We cover everything from building trust in the age of AI, creating human-first content, crisis-proofing your brand, to leveraging SEO and podcasting for sustainable growth. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by marketing "shoulds"—this episode is your permission slip to slow down and get strategic. In this episode, you'll learn: Timestamps: 00:00 Reflecting on a Year of Intentional Marketing 00:21 Introduction to Rocky Mountain Marketing 00:51 Year-End Review: Key Insights from 2025 02:18 Top 10 Episodes Countdown: Legal Protection for Podcasters 05:54 Podcast Blueprints for Business Success 08:54 Crisis-Proofing Your Brand 11:45 Transforming Your Website into a Sales Machine 15:29 Sustainable Growth Strategies for Small Businesses 18:19 Using Psychology to Attract Dream Clients 20:40 Finding Clarity and Passion in Entrepreneurship 21:37 Getting Your Local Business on Google's First Page 25:25 Human-First AI Marketing with Mike Monte 29:06 Turning Cold DMs into Warm Conversations 33:54 Trust-First Marketing Without Posting Every Day 38:44 Final Thoughts and Year-End Reflections Whether you're a long-time listener or new to the show, this recap is packed with timeless advice to guide your 2026 strategy. Hit follow and subscribe now to make sure you don’t miss the powerful conversations we have coming next year! Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://yournextstep.agency/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let me guess—you didn’t start your business to spend hours copying and pasting, chasing down leads, or drowning in admin work. In this episode, I sit down with Mike Allton, Director of Partner-Led Growth at Agorapulse and founder of The AI Hat, to uncover how AI can truly give you back your most valuable resource: time. We break down how to move beyond using AI just for content creation and explore how it can reduce “admin drag,” support revenue-driving activities, and elevate your strategic thinking. Mike shares what revenue architecture really means and how solopreneurs and sales teams can use AI to scale smarter—not louder. If you’re ready to reclaim your schedule and protect the human side of your business, this episode is your roadmap. What You’ll Learn: revenue partner Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: The AI Time-Saving Revolution 00:34 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing 01:04 The Real Opportunity with AI 01:46 Introducing Mike Alton: AI and Revenue Architecture 02:37 Understanding Admin Drag and AI Solutions 05:23 The Role of AI in Sales and Marketing 08:12 Implementing AI: Practical Steps and Benefits 18:57 Revenue Architecture: Integrating AI into Processes 25:18 The True ROI of AI: Time and Trust 33:49 Final Thoughts and Takeaways Ready to take back your time? Subscribe to Rocky Mountain Marketing and never miss an episode packed with strategies to scale your business with purpose—and less stress. Visit Mike Allton's social media pages: Website: https://theaihat.com/connect/ Agorapulse: https://www.agorapulse.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeallton Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://yournextstep.agency/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What makes some creators cut through the noise while others just… fade into the scroll? In this week’s episode, I sit down with Jay Acunzo, international speaker, storytelling coach, and the mastermind behind the “resonance over reach” philosophy. Jay has worked with brands like Google, HubSpot, and ESPN—and today, he shares what really helps coaches, creators, and business leaders connect with their audience in a meaningful, profitable way. We talk about how to uncover clarity in your message, why most “signature talks” miss the mark, and how you can structure your communication to inspire change—not just attention. If you’re trying to grow your thought leadership, book speaking gigs, or create content that sticks, this conversation is a masterclass. What you'll learn: Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: The Key to Effortless Attention 00:27 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing 00:58 Introducing Jay Acunzo: Master of Clarity 06:43 The Importance of Public Speaking 14:12 Crafting Memorable Stories 19:19 The Four Beats of Storytelling 19:54 Align: Understanding Your Audience 20:07 Agitate: Highlighting the Problems 21:00 Assert: Presenting Your Solution 21:32 Invite: Engaging Your Audience 22:36 The Importance of Personal Branding 23:14 Finding Your Unique Speaking Voice 24:28 The Role of Authenticity in Speaking 25:59 Developing and Refining Your Ideas 28:37 Practical Tips for Nervous Speakers 31:17 The Power of a Creative Practice 33:31 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Tune in now, and let’s help you build a message that actually moves people. Visit Jay Acunzo online: Website: https://jayacunzo.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayacunzo/ Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/how-stories-happen/id1736586770 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/jayacunzo Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ready to stop doing it all yourself and build a high-performing team? In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, Katie Brinkley sits down with Shawn Quintero, COO and co-owner of Next Step Social & Podcasting, to share exactly how they scaled a remote team that runs on clarity, collaboration, and strong company culture. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: The Real Challenge in Business 00:45 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing 01:19 Meet the COO: Sean Quintero 02:38 The Importance of Hiring and Onboarding 04:01 Building Effective Systems and Culture 05:27 Managing People: Soft Skills and Emotional Intelligence 06:35 Making Tough Decisions: Letting Go and Hiring Right 15:16 Onboarding and Training: Setting Up for Success 20:09 Addressing Performance Issues 24:03 Creating a Positive Remote Work Culture 29:10 Conclusion: People Are People 30:20 Outro: Subscribe and Stay Connected If you’re an entrepreneur, coach, or agency owner who’s tired of bottlenecking your business, this is the episode that will help you step fully into your leadership role. Don’t miss it—hit play now and discover what it takes to scale your team with confidence. Visit Shawn Quintero online: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heyshawnq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeyShawnQ/ Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://yournextstep.agency/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Every time Austin Armstrong joins me on the show, he’s leveled up—and this time is no different. From billions (yes, billions) of organic views to launching tools like Syllabi and ThreadMaster, Austin’s name is now synonymous with AI-powered content creation and repeatable virality. In this episode, we dive into the systems, frameworks, and mindset behind Virality—his new book that breaks down how to stop chasing vanity metrics and start building real business leverage with your content. You’ll hear about: “stop chasing views”START Video FrameworkAI toolsleverage behind vanity metrics Austin also unpacks what’s actually working right now on social—and how you can implement the same systems to grow your brand, your revenue, and your reach. If you’re tired of posting with no results, this episode is for you. Visit Austin Armstrong online: Website: https://syllaby.io/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Owwstin/ Virality! (Book): https://a.co/d/4UnuJ0x Threadmaster.AI: https://threadmaster.ai/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@SocialtyPro Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://yournextstep.agency/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with the incredible Jenn Herman—Instagram strategist, author of Instagram for Dummies, and founder of the Profit Your Profile community. We unpack what’s actually working for organic Instagram growth in 2025 and beyond. If you’ve ever felt like your content isn’t gaining traction or that the Instagram algorithm is working against you, this episode is your wake-up call. Jenn reveals: organic reach isn’t dead—it’s just differentreels that stop the scrollbalance short-form content with authenticityrecommended contentAI in your content strategy Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: Is Organic Reach Dead on Instagram? 01:09 Guest Introduction: Jen Herman on Instagram Strategy 02:36 The Evolution of Instagram: Features and Functions 05:48 Adapting to Algorithm Changes 08:31 Creating Authentic and Engaging Content 16:56 Leveraging Instagram Stories and AI 24:45 Building Private Communities and Memberships 29:55 Future Trends and Final Thoughts We also talk about how micro-communities, subscriber-only content, and even Stories are still the highest-converting tools on Instagram when done right. Ready to future-proof your Instagram strategy? Tune in to hear how you can grow with less, stay real, and leverage what’s actually working right now. Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you tune in. Visit Jenn Herman online: Website: https://jennstrends.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jenns_trends/ Profit Your Profile Community: https://profityourprofile.com/ Jenn Herman's Books: https://jennstrends.com/books/ Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://yournextstep.agency/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Running a business on sticky notes, late nights, and last-minute decisions? I’ve been there. In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down once again with my operational other half and COO, Shawn Quintero, to share the behind-the-scenes journey of turning Next Step Social & Podcasting from a founder-dependent business into a scalable, framework-driven company. We get real about what it takes to stop doing it all and start leading intentionally. From the CEO-COO relationship, to daily huddles, GWC evaluations, and how we use the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to guide every move—we're pulling back the curtain on the systems and rhythms that power sustainable growth. Whether you're a solopreneur with a team or a visionary ready to scale, this episode is your blueprint. In this episode, we discuss: growthvision, data, and process clarity Chapters: 00:00:00 Introduction to Business Scaling 00:00:00 Introduction to Business Scaling 00:03:00 Transitioning from Solopreneurship 00:06:00 Strategic Hiring and Systematization 00:09:00 Understanding EOS and Its Components 00:12:00 Building a Strong Business Partnership 00:15:00 The Role of Vision and Delegation 00:18:00 Implementing Daily Huddles and GWC Test 00:21:00 The Importance of Complementary Skills 00:24:00 Maintaining Alignment and Communication 00:27:00 Scaling with Structure and Systems 00:30:00 Conclusion and Call to Action Visit Shawn Quintero online: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heyshawnq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeyShawnQ/ Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://yournextstep.agency/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with Matthew Rouse—author, agency owner, and AI startup founder—to talk about the real state of AI in business. Forget the hype—Matt and I dive into practical AI tools, how to build better automations, and how small businesses can scale smarter without sacrificing authenticity. We explore: actually Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to AI and Job Security 00:30 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing 01:00 Meet Matt Rouse: AI Expert and Entrepreneur 01:26 The Reality of AI for Entrepreneurs 06:18 AI Tools and Their Applications 14:03 Using AI for Creative Processes 18:32 Automating Business Tasks with AI 23:28 The Future of AI in Business 28:58 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Matt also shares insights from his book Will AI Take My Job Too?, plus his approach to building powerful AI agents and automations that actually move the needle. Tune in to learn how to stop fearing AI—and start using it to make your business more efficient, impactful, and human. Listen now on your favorite podcast platform and don’t forget to subscribe! Visit Matt Rouse online: Website: https://matthewrouse.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattmrouse/ SMB Autopilot: https://smbautopilot.ai/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/Will-Take-Job-Predictions-Corporations/dp/B0CL9NWGGL Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://yournextstep.agency/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with Kelly Schuknecht, founder of Two Mile High Marketing and a personal branding strategist, to unpack what it really means to build an authentic brand in today’s AI-saturated world. Kelly shares how she accidentally built her personal brand over 15 years ago, and how that journey led her to help other professionals turn their expertise into influence. We dive into the importance of authenticity, how AI tools like ChatGPT and Quso can elevate your voice—not replace it—and why your story still matters more than ever. We also explore: right way Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction to AI and Personal Branding 00:24 Welcome to Rocky Mountain Marketing 00:54 Meet Today's Guest: Kelly Schuknecht 01:25 The Importance of Personal Branding in the Age of AI 02:36 Kelly's Journey to Personal Branding 04:14 Challenges in Defining Personal Brand 08:47 The Role of AI in Content Creation 14:56 AI Tools for Personal Branding 18:51 The Power of Writing a Book for Personal Branding 25:06 Getting Started with Personal Branding 28:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Want to know if your personal brand is working for you? Take Kelly’s Thought Leadership Scorecard at twomilehighmarketing.com Visit Kelly Kelly Schuknecht online: Website: https://kellyschuknecht.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyschuknecht/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/kellyschuknecht Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://yournextstep.agency/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it really take to scale your business without losing your sanity? In this episode of Rocky Mountain Marketing, I sit down with my friend, business partner, and COO of Next Step Social & Podcasting, Shawn Quintero. Shawn pulls back the curtain on the systems, strategy, and mindset shifts that have helped us scale Next Step Social & Podcasting —and support clients doing the same. We talk about: actually workVIP Day Timestamps 00:00 Introduction: Scaling Your Business 01:02 Meet the COO: Shawn Quintero 01:57 The Importance of Systems in Business 03:34 Challenges of Founder-Dependent Businesses 10:18 Strategic Incentives and Marketing Campaigns 12:53 VIP Day: A Game Changer for Businesses 17:14 Client Success Stories 21:20 Finding Clarity and Solving Problems 25:13 Looking Ahead: Scaling in 2026 26:52 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Whether you're a solo business owner or managing a full team, this conversation will give you a behind-the-scenes look at the intentional design that drives real business growth. Ready to take the next step? Book your VIP Day now at yournextstep.agency and let’s build your custom growth strategy. Visit Shawn Quintero online: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heyshawnq/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HeyShawnQ/ Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting: Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/ Website: https://yournextstep.agency/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketing Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.