Hey, small business marketers, ever feel like you’re chasing the next big thing—LinkedIn posts, lead gen tools, or some shiny new tactic—without a clear plan? In Episode 03 of the Atlas Rose Podcast, we’re diving into why that chaos happens and how a solid methodology can fix it. Monica Spieles, Randi Beth Burton, and I break down the trap of cookie-cutter marketing, the power of asking the right questions, and why you’ve gotta stop being a one-trick pony. We share hard-earned lessons from Atlas Rose’s journey, including how to surround yourself with experts and “fix it once” with tools that work. If you’re ready to lead your clients’ marketing with confidence and clarity, this episode’s for you. Hit play, subscribe, and let’s get strategic!

Guest Introduction: Alright, folks, I’m pumped to have Monica Spieles and Randi Beth Burton with me today. These two are rockstar fractional CMOs at Atlas Rose, bringing years of experience in guiding small businesses through the marketing maze. Monica’s a pro at untangling complex client challenges, while Randi Beth’s knack for asking the right questions cuts through the noise. Together, they’re here to share why a methodology beats chasing trends every time.

Key Takeaways: Stop chasing shiny objects—without clear goals, you’re just running in circles, and that’s a headache for any marketer. A methodology isn’t a rigid checklist; it’s a fluid framework that adapts to each client’s unique “broken arm.” Surround yourself with experts who are sold out for their craft—SEO, video, whatever—to strategically deploy the right tactics. Ask the tough questions, like a doctor diagnosing a patient, to uncover what clients really need, not just what they think they want. Fix problems once with reusable tools, so you’re not reinventing the wheel every time you face a challenge. Entertain and educate—make your clients excited to learn, or your strategy won’t stick, no matter how smart it is.

Chapter Markers: 0:00 Intro 0:05 The Problem with Chasing Marketing Trends 1:08 Why Goals Matter in Marketing Strategy 2:30 Atlas Rose’s Journey: Moving Beyond Cookie-Cutter Plans 5:04 The Broken Arm Analogy: Fixing What’s Really Wrong 8:21 Asking the Right Questions Like a Good Doctor 10:41 Avoiding the One-Trick Pony Trap 13:34 Building a Support Network of Experts 19:20 Learning from Problem Clients and Fixing It Once 26:51 The Power of Educating and Entertaining Clients 30:25 Closing Thoughts and Key Lessons

Keywords: Branden O’Neil, Monica Spieles, Randi Beth Burton, Atlas Rose Podcast, fractional CMO, marketing strategy, small business marketing, marketing methodology, client goals, marketing tactics, business leadership, marketing tools, strategic marketing, marketing challenges, small business growth