Build Your Marketing Muscles - Small Business Marketing Strategies

Understanding your audience is the foundation of effective marketing.

In this episode, marketing strategist Gwen Montoya dives into strategies for learning more about your audience so you can create better content, offers, and marketing strategies. From analyzing demographics and analytics to gathering insights through surveys and observations, Gwen offers actionable advice to help you connect with your audience and make data-informed decisions for your business.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How to use demographics to identify key traits about your audience.
   
• Leveraging your analytics to determine what content and platforms resonate most.
   
• Tapping into your observations to uncover patterns and buying habits.
   
• Analyzing your competitors to find gaps in the market or refine your approach.
   
• Tips for creating effective surveys to gather direct feedback from your audience.
   
• Why understanding your audience leads to better marketing decisions and offers.

Actionable Takeaways:

1. Review Demographics: Identify age, location, and interests of your audience to shape your strategy.
2. Analyze Your Data: Use website, social media, and email analytics to identify patterns and successes.
3. Leverage Observations: Reflect on questions, habits, and feedback you’ve noticed in your audience.
4. Study Competitors: Look at their strategies to uncover opportunities or gaps you can fill.
5. Ask Directly: Create short, simple surveys to collect actionable insights from your audience.

Interested in working together? Start with my intake form here.

Learn more about the Build Your Marketing Muscles membership group.

More ways to connect:

Website: www.gwenmontoya.com
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@gmontoyapdx
YouTube: www.youtube.com/gwenmontoya
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gmontoyapdx

Feeling overwhelmed with everything you need to juggle in your business? In this episode, marketing strategist Gwen Montoya shares her favorite tools and strategies for staying organized.

 From brain dumps and to-do lists to powerful platforms like Airtable and ClickUp, Gwen highlights practical ways to streamline your workflow, plan your marketing, and stay focused. Whether you’re just starting out or looking for ways to refine your systems, this episode will help you gain clarity and get more done with less stress.
 

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• The power of a weekly brain dump to clear your mind and uncover connections.
   
• Why to-do lists are an organizational superpower (and how to use them effectively).
   
• How Airtable and ClickUp can simplify content management, workflows, and SOPs.
   
• The importance of setting clear business goals to guide your organization.
   
• How to build a content calendar aligned with your marketing strategy.
   
• Why taking rest and time off is essential for staying focused and productive.
   

Tools and Resources Mentioned:

1. Brain Dumps: A simple, free way to declutter your mind and identify next steps.
2. To-Do Lists: Gwen’s favorite tool for daily organization and motivation.
3. Airtable: A versatile tool for managing contacts, content, and projects.
4. ClickUp: Ideal for tracking processes, creating SOPs, and managing ideas.
5. Content Calendars: A practical way to plan and execute your marketing strategy.

Interested in working together? Start with my intake form here.

Learn more about the Build Your Marketing Muscles membership group.

More ways to connect:

Website: www.gwenmontoya.com
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@gmontoyapdx
YouTube: www.youtube.com/gwenmontoya
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gmontoyapdx

Running a business doesn’t always happen behind a desk. 

In this episode, marketing strategist Gwen Montoya shares 13 practical tasks you can accomplish one-handed from your phone to keep your marketing and business goals moving forward. Whether you’re waiting in a pickup line, at an appointment, or simply taking advantage of a quick break, these actionable tips will help you stay productive without needing a full office setup.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How to use the Canva app to create or edit graphics on the go.
   
• Drafting emails, blog posts, and social media content directly from your phone.
   
• Tips for cleaning up your inbox and managing saved articles.
   
• Quick strategies for engaging with your social media audience.
   
• The importance of taking short breaks to recharge and avoid burnout.
   
• Why you should periodically check your website for clarity, functionality, and mobile friendliness.
   
• How to create a to-do list for future tasks when you have more time.
   

13 One-Handed Marketing Tasks You Can Do From Your Phone:

1. Create or edit graphics using the Canva app.
2. Draft emails or save them for later in your drafts folder.
3. Sketch out blog posts or social media content in a notes app or Google Drive.
4. Use scheduling apps to plan posts.
5. Clean up your email inbox and unsubscribe from unnecessary lists.
6. Read saved articles to learn something new or clear your reading list.
7. Engage with your social media audience: reply to comments, DMs, and follow new accounts.
8. Take a moment to meditate, relax, or play a game to recharge your brain.
9. Check your website for clarity and mobile-friendliness.
10. Test your website links to ensure everything is working as it should.
11. Start a to-do list for tasks to tackle later.
12. Catch up with a friend to maintain your social connections.
13. Reflect on how your downtime can support your overall marketing strategy.

Interested in working together? Start with my intake form here.

Learn more about the Build Your Marketing Muscles membership group.

More ways to connect:

Website: www.gwenmontoya.com
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@gmontoyapdx
YouTube: www.youtube.com/gwenmontoya
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gmontoyapdx

In this episode, marketing strategist Gwen Montoya breaks down the power of integrated marketing and why small business owners need to connect their marketing channels for greater success. 

From using your website as a home base to building an email list, leveraging social media, networking effectively, and optimizing for search engines, Gwen shares how each aspect of your marketing works together to help you grow your business. Discover actionable insights to stop relying solely on one platform and start creating a holistic marketing strategy.
 

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why integrated marketing is critical for small business success.
   
• How your website serves as the foundation of your marketing.
   
• The role of social media in creating awareness and driving traffic.
   
• Why building and nurturing your email list is a game-changer.
   
• How networking can refine your pitch and expand your audience.
   
• The long-term benefits of SEO and blogging for driving targeted traffic.
   
• Common mistakes small business owners make by focusing too narrowly on one platform.
   
• How to align your marketing channels for maximum impact.

Interested in working together? Start with my intake form here.

Learn more about the Build Your Marketing Muscles membership group.

More ways to connect:

Website: www.gwenmontoya.com
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@gmontoyapdx
YouTube: www.youtube.com/gwenmontoya
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gmontoyapdx

Key Takeaways: 

1. Video Marketing: The Leading Trend for 2025 Why Video is a Game-Changer: 

Builds instant trust and connection through facial expressions and voice tone. 

Showcases your personality and work style better than text alone. 

Short-Form Video Dominates: Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and LinkedIn are focusing on short-form content. 

Start with a captivating “hook” to grab attention in the first few seconds. 

Tailor content to your audience—educate, entertain, or inspire in concise, engaging ways. 

2. Community Building: A Key Marketing Prediction for 2025 

The Power of Real Connections: Despite the digital noise, people want genuine interactions. 

Engaging Through Social Media: Go beyond “post and ghost”—ask questions, respond to comments, and spark conversations. 

Networking to Build Relationships: In-person events will be invaluable for referrals and collaborations. For virtual connections, participate in online communities and networking groups. Focus on building relationships, not immediate sales—show up curious and ready to help. 

3. Blogging and Long-Form Content 

Blogging isn’t Dead: Blogs remain a powerful tool for SEO and educating your audience. 

Focus on creating in-depth, high-quality content that answers key questions your audience has. 

Repurpose Content: Turn blogs into videos, social media posts, or email newsletters to maximize their reach. 

4. Paid Communities on the Rise: 

More businesses are creating paid memberships for exclusive content, networking, or support in places Substack, Patreon, Circle, and other options. 

Interested in working together? Start with my intake form here.

Learn more about the Build Your Marketing Muscles membership group.

More ways to connect:

Website: www.gwenmontoya.com
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@gmontoyapdx
YouTube: www.youtube.com/gwenmontoya
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gmontoyapdx

Feeling overwhelmed in your business? You’re not alone. In this episode, marketing strategist Gwen Montoya shares practical strategies for managing overwhelm, prioritizing your tasks, and staying focused. 

Gwen introduces her step-by-step flowchart to help you make better decisions about where to put your energy, from handling communication to tackling shiny new ideas. Whether you’re juggling too many responsibilities or just need a clear direction, this episode will help you feel more confident and in control.
 

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How to recognize and manage feelings of overwhelm in your business.
   
• The importance of distinguishing “must-dos” from “nice-to-haves.”
   
• Creative ways to outsource tasks in your business and personal life.
   
• How to prioritize communication and current projects to keep your business running smoothly.
   
• Strategies for maintaining visibility and building future income streams.
   
• How to approach shiny new ideas without losing focus on your core goals.
   
• Tips for balancing creativity, rest, and consistent action to grow your business.
   

Actionable Takeaways:

• Evaluate your recent sales to identify where to focus your marketing efforts.
   
• Consider outsourcing tasks—both in business and in life—to reduce your workload.
   
• Use the flowchart to prioritize tasks based on their impact on your business.
   
• Balance visibility efforts between owned platforms and community outreach.
   
• Save shiny new ideas for when you’ve completed your essential tasks.

Interested in working together? Start with my intake form here.

Learn more about the Build Your Marketing Muscles membership group.

More ways to connect:

Website: www.gwenmontoya.com
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@gmontoyapdx
YouTube: www.youtube.com/gwenmontoya
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gmontoyapdx

In this episode, marketing strategist Gwen Montoya walks listeners through the ins and outs of Google Business Profile (formerly Google My Business).

From setting up and optimizing your profile to leveraging it as a powerful tool for local visibility, Gwen shares actionable advice for small business owners looking to make a great first impression online. If you've ever wondered how to get started or make the most of your Google Business listing, this episode is for you.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• What Google Business Profile is and why it's crucial for small businesses.
   
• Step-by-step guidance for setting up and optimizing your profile.
   
• The importance of using high-quality photos and keeping your information accurate.
   
• How to craft a compelling business description using keywords your audience searches for.
   
• Tips for adding products, services, and menu items to your profile.
   
• Best practices for collecting and responding to customer reviews.
   
• How to use weekly updates to keep your profile active and relevant.
   
• Leveraging Google Business Profile insights to refine your marketing efforts.

Interested in working together? Start with my intake form here.

Learn more about the Build Your Marketing Muscles membership group.

More ways to connect:

Website: www.gwenmontoya.com
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@gmontoyapdx
YouTube: www.youtube.com/gwenmontoya
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gmontoyapdx

In this episode, host Gwen Montoya dives into the challenges of relying solely on social media for business marketing and explores alternative strategies to promote and grow your business.

From building a strong email list to leveraging in-person networking, Gwen shares actionable tips to create a diversified marketing plan that complements your social media efforts. Whether you're feeling burned out by algorithm changes or looking for long-term strategies, this episode is packed with insights to help you create a well-rounded marketing approach.
 

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• Why relying exclusively on social media is risky for your business.
   
• The importance of an email list and how to maximize its potential.
   
• How to leverage in-person networking events for lasting connections.
   
• Long-term marketing strategies like SEO and blogging.
   
• Options for starting your own podcast, YouTube channel, or guesting on others.
   
• Immediate-action strategies like cold calling and running ads (and their pros/cons).
   
• Tips for integrating various marketing methods into a cohesive plan.

Interested in working together? Start with my intake form here.

Learn more about the Build Your Marketing Muscles membership group.

More ways to connect:

Website: www.gwenmontoya.com
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@gmontoyapdx
YouTube: www.youtube.com/gwenmontoya
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gmontoyapdx

In this episode of Adventures in Marketing, Gwen Montoya dives into the importance of giving yourself permission to experiment in your business. Feeling stuck, bored, or uninspired? Gwen explores how trying something new—from tweaking your offers to reaching new audiences—can reignite your passion and creativity. Learn how curiosity and low-risk experimentation can bring fresh energy to your business without the need to “burn it all down.”

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why business owners often feel stuck and bored after doing the same things for too long.
   
• How giving yourself permission to experiment can lead to breakthroughs.
   
• The benefits of approaching changes with curiosity instead of fear.
   
• Practical, low-cost ways to experiment in your business, such as:
  
  • Tweaking your offers or services.
  • Exploring new audiences or demographics.
  • Trying new ways to show up, like networking or starting a podcast.
  • Collaborating or engaging with new groups.
     
• Why experimenting doesn’t have to mean major changes or big investments.
   
• How even small experiments can help you rediscover excitement and connection in your business.

Key Takeaways:

• Experimentation doesn’t require a massive budget—start small and focus on curiosity.
• Revisiting how you market, whom you serve, or how you show up can provide clarity and inspiration.
• Trying something new, even if it doesn’t work out, helps you learn and grow as a business owner.
• Staying engaged and curious keeps your business vibrant and prevents burnout.

Action Steps:

1. Reflect on areas of your business where you feel stuck or uninspired.
2. Brainstorm low-risk experiments, like tweaking your messaging or exploring a new platform.
3. Commit to trying one small experiment in the next week.
4. Remember to approach this process with playfulness and curiosity—it’s not about perfection!

Interested in working together? Start with my intake form here.

Learn more about the Build Your Marketing Muscles membership group.

More ways to connect:

Website: www.gwenmontoya.com
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@gmontoyapdx
YouTube: www.youtube.com/gwenmontoya
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gmontoyapdx

Are you wondering how to market your business before opening?
 

Starting a new business is one of the most exciting and challenging adventures you can take. But once you’ve checked off the basics—like setting up your website, creating your social media accounts, and securing your location—how do you effectively market your business before it officially opens?

Whether you’re a small business owner launching a brick-and-mortar store or an online service, I’ll share practical, actionable strategies to help you build excitement, connect with your ideal audience, and set the stage for a successful grand opening.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:

✅ How to create buzz and let people know your business exists—even before you open your doors.

✅ Marketing tips for brick-and-mortar businesses, like connecting with other local businesses, building a referral network, and using foot traffic to your advantage.

✅ Creative behind-the-scenes ideas to showcase your brand’s personality and journey (even if your business isn’t “photogenic”).

✅ How to use tools like a Google Business Profile and online directories to boost your visibility in local and niche markets.

Why This Matters

Marketing a business before it opens isn’t just about getting people in the door on day one—it’s about building long-term relationships with your audience and creating a community of loyal customers who are excited to support you from the very beginning.
 

Have questions about marketing your business before opening? Email me - [email protected]. I love helping small business owners feel confident and excited about their marketing strategies!
 

Launching a business is a journey, and I’m here to make marketing one less thing to stress about. Let’s do this together!

Interested in working together? Start with my intake form here.

Learn more about the Build Your Marketing Muscles membership group.

More ways to connect:

Website: www.gwenmontoya.com
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@gmontoyapdx
YouTube: www.youtube.com/gwenmontoya
Instagram: www.instagram.com/gmontoyapdx