All good stories must come to an end. After 3 incredible years of helping you create clear marketing that works, this is the final episode of the Marketing Made Simple Podcast. But instead of a somber goodbye, we’re closing this chapter with full hearts and deep gratitude — for you, our Hero Makers.   To help us close this last episode with wisdom and joy, we welcome back longtime friend, StoryBrand facilitator, and gratitude expert Christy Kern. Christy shares how the practice of gratitude can transform your life, both personally and professionally. You’ll learn how gratitude can coexist with grief, why it’s a practice (not a personality trait), and how to make it a daily habit.   J.J. and April also take time to reflect on their journey as hosts, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, favorite memories, and offering one final challenge that could change the way you approach life and business. But more than anything, this episode is a celebration of you — the Hero Maker. Thank you for every download, every review, every bit of feedback, and every moment you’ve shared with us. You made this possible. And for that, we are forever grateful!   --  

Starting January 6, 2025, the former Business Made Simple Podcast feed will become home to an exciting new show:

Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, hosted by Donald Miller. 

It’s been an honor providing you with the tools and frameworks to help make your marketing easy and make it work, and this new podcast will continue giving incredible value with actionable insights you can immediately apply. Make sure to follow the former Business Made Simple feed so you don’t miss a single episode of Why That Worked starting January 6, 2025!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

Marketing that truly connects starts with understanding your customer’s journey—and knowing how to show up as their guide. As part of our replay of last year’s 5 Minute Marketing Challenge, we’re revisiting one of the most powerful concepts in the StoryBrand framework to help you bring clarity and confidence to your messaging.       In this replay of episode #128, Dr. J.J. Peterson and co-host April Sunshine Hawkins show you how to step into the role of guide for your customers. You’ll discover practical tips for connecting with your customers' needs while positioning your expertise as the solution they can trust. Even better, you’ll learn how to keep your marketing authentic and focused, all in under 5 minutes.       This is the last replay in the series before we close out the Marketing Made Simple Podcast next week with a heartfelt and special final episode. We’re so grateful to have been part of your journey, and we can’t wait to share one more conversation to inspire and equip you for what’s next. Don’t miss it!   --  

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

As the holidays bring a whirlwind of demands, it’s easy to lose sight of what your customers really need. That’s why we’re replaying one of our most popular episodes from last year’s 5 Minute Marketing Challenge! This series is all about quick, actionable strategies to simplify your marketing and stay impactful—even when life feels chaotic.

 

In today’s replay of episode #127, Dr. J.J. Peterson and co-host April Sunshine Hawkins unpack the key to making your marketing resonate: identifying the problems your customers face. By exploring the external, internal, and philosophical challenges your customers experience, you’ll learn how to position your product or service as the solution they’ve been searching for.

 

Whether it’s your first time or you’re revisiting this as a refresher, this episode will help you create meaningful, problem-solving marketing that keeps your business moving forward.

 

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CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

As the holiday season ramps up, maintaining clear and impactful marketing becomes more important than ever. That’s why we’re bringing back one of our most powerful series: the 5 Minute Marketing Challenge! Originally released last year, this series is designed to help you cut through the noise with simple, actionable tips you can implement in just minutes.

 

In today’s replay of episode #126, Dr. J.J. Peterson and co-host April Sunshine Hawkins guide you through the first step: crafting a clear message that connects with your customers and positions you as the trusted guide they’re looking for. Using the proven strategies of the StoryBrand framework, you’ll discover how to stay focused and effective—even during the busiest time of the year.

 

Whether you’re hearing this for the first time or revisiting it as a refresher, this episode lays the foundation for creating impactful marketing that drives real results.

 

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Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

Tech companies often struggle with the same challenge—making their complex solutions simple to understand. When customers can’t grasp how a product solves their problem, even the most innovative ideas can fall flat. How do you balance clarity and sophistication to attract buyers without sacrificing the technical depth that sets you apart?

 

In this episode of Talkin’ Shop, J.J. and April sit down with StoryBrand Certified Guide Kelly Sjol to discuss how she helps tech companies clarify their messaging to stand out in a crowded market. Drawing from her expertise in SaaS, Kelly shares how the StoryBrand framework transforms tech founders' messaging into clear, compelling stories that engage both buyers and users. Whether you’re a founder of a SaaS company or just tackling a complex product, tune in to learn how clear communication can be your biggest growth driver.

 

Contact StoryBrand Certified Guide Kelly Sjol directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/Kelly-Sjol.

 

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Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

In competitive industries, it’s all too easy for great businesses to fade into the background. When everyone is saying the same thing, customers have a hard time sussing out who can actually help them. That's why the real challenge isn’t just being good at what you do—it’s making sure people know you’re the best choice for solving their specific problem. Are you clearly showcasing what sets you apart? If not, your customers might never find you.

 

In the next episode of our Talkin’ Shop series, J.J. and April sit down with Sarah Cook, a former naturopathic clinician turned StoryBrand Certified Guide. She shares practical strategies for standing out in a crowded market—especially in competitive industries like health and wellness. Learn why niching down to a specific problem is the key to differentiation, and how to shift your messaging to highlight the unique way you solve your customer's pain points. Tune in for actionable tips on positioning yourself effectively, so you can raise your flag and attract the right audience!

 

Contact StoryBrand Certified Guide Sarah Cook directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/WellnessWriter.

 

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Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

Nonprofit leaders work hard and care deeply, but sometimes their message isn’t clear enough to get people excited and involved. The stories are powerful, and the mission is strong, but the message can get lost. It’s a frustrating reality for nearly every marketer involved in the nonprofit sector. So how do you communicate your vision in a way that gets your donors, volunteers, and supporters to rally behind you and make a real impact? 

 

In the newest episode of our Talkin’ Shop series, J.J. Peterson and April Sunshine Hawkins bring in StoryBrand Certified Guides Natasha Paradeshi and Christian Hinojosa, of Solace Media, to break down how to transform nonprofit messaging. You’ll learn how to create multiple brand scripts that speak directly to your different audiences—whether it’s your board, your volunteers, or your donors—so they feel seen, valued, and inspired to act. Plus, discover the power of ethical storytelling and why tapping into hope, vision, and strategic clarity is the game changer your nonprofit needs. Even if you’re running a for-profit business, these insights will challenge you to rethink how you engage your audience. Tune in and learn how clear messaging can turn your mission into a movement that changes lives.

 

Contact StoryBrand Certified Guides Natasha Paradeshi and Christian Hinojosa directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/Solace or Solace.Media.

 

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Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

The coaching world is booming, but with thousands of new coaches and consultants entering the industry, it’s becoming a more crowded space. If you're looking to make an impact, the question quickly becomes: How do I get noticed? Many coaches get caught in a cycle of trying to copy what others are doing, hoping it will work for them, but it usually backfires. So how do you find your authentic voice and connect with clients who truly need you?

 

In this week’s episode of our Talkin’ Shop series, J.J and April sit down with StoryBrand Certified Guide Eric Williams to discuss how coaches can clarify their message to stand out in a growing profession. Eric shares his top strategies for attracting the right clients by leaning into your unique style and avoiding the “business buzzword box.” You’ll learn how to use storytelling, personality, and specificity to connect with clients in a way that feels fully aligned. Tune in to get practical steps to building a coaching brand that’s authentically you!

 

Contact StoryBrand Certified Guide Eric Williams directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/EricWilliams.

 

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Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

If customers in your town are searching online for what you offer but can’t find you, you’re missing a huge opportunity. It’s like having a storefront without a sign. Local business owners know they need to show up in search results, but SEO can sound like rocket science—complex, overwhelming, and honestly, not what you signed up for. But what if there were a way to use SEO that’s straightforward, doesn’t eat up your time, and just works?

 

In the latest episode of our Talkin’ Shop series, hosts Dr. JJ Peterson and April Sunshine Hawkins bring on StoryBrand Certified Guide Kelly Rice to walk through 4 simple steps to help you boost your local SEO and make your business rise to the top online. Kelly breaks down SEO essentials with tips on building strong content foundations, connecting with the right customers, and driving valuable traffic—all without confusing technical jargon. Tune in to learn how these simple steps can help your customers find you faster and make sure your marketing works as hard as you do!

 

Contact StoryBrand Certified Guide Kelly Rice directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/Kelly-Rice-Treefrog-Marketing.

 

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Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

Marketing doesn’t have to be complicated, but let’s be real—it’s easy to screw it up. You know your product or service is great, but your customers aren’t noticing. Why? Because you’re either blending in with everyone else or confusing your audience with messaging that’s unclear. It’s a tough balance: if you’re too creative, people don’t get it. If you’re too clear, it can seem dull. The real challenge is finding that sweet spot that balances creativity and clarity. So, how do you create a marketing message that sets you apart without confusing people?

 

In today’s episode, hosts Dr. J.J. Peterson and April Sunshine Hawkins, joined by StoryBrand Certified Guide Director Macy Robison, kick off a brand-new series where they're "talkin' shop" with marketing experts from different industries. Macy explains how businesses can stand out by embracing what makes them unique while staying clear in their messaging. Whether you run a local business, nonprofit, or tech company, you’ll walk away with practical tips you can apply right away to help you clarify your message and attract more customers. Tune in to learn how to strike the balance between creativity and clarity so your marketing actually works.

 

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Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

Traditional productivity advice often assumes a “one-size-fits-all” solution, but for many people —especially those of us with ADHD or other neurodivergent traits—that approach can actually slow you down. You may even feel ashamed of your inability to focus or stay organized, but the real problem might be that the traditional methods weren’t designed for you. Instead of forcing yourself into methods that don’t align with your natural strengths, it's important to recognize that you may need a different approach. So how do you work with your brain, not against it, to get things done?

 

In this week’s episode, hosts J.J. and April speak with licensed clinical professional counselor Isabelle Richards, an expert in ADHD and co-host of the Something Shiny ADHD Podcast. They explore how neurodivergent traits like ADHD can impact the way we work, especially in high-pressure roles like marketing. You’ll learn how to set up systems and environments that align with the way your brain works so you can thrive in your career and get more done with less stress. Tune in and get actionable strategies to help you harness your unique strengths without compromising your well-being.

 

Discover your path to getting things done and download your free Something Shiny ADHD Accommodations Finder at SomethingShinyPodcast.com/MMS.

 

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Ready to take your marketing career to the next level? Apply now to become a StoryBrand Certified Guide at StoryBrand.com/Guide and get the tools, training, and community to help businesses boost sales—but hurry, the deadline for the December training is approaching fast!

 

CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7

 

HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com

 

HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey

 

STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand