Speaking Archives -

Every few years, someone in the marketing world tries to declare that email is dead. After knowing each other for over a decade and working through the trenches of digital marketing, my friend John W. Hayes and I are still here, we are both a little grayer, and email is stronger than ever. John is the Product Marketing Manager at Upland Adestra, a content strategist, and the author of Becoming the Expert. On this episode of the HMBT Podcast, we dive into the realities of the modern inbox: moving away from spammy cold outreach, navigating tighter spam filters, and building media channels you actually own.

Why Cold Email Fails and Warm Outreach Wins

Buying a list of 100,000 names and hitting send is a fast track to getting your domain burned. Mailbox providers are increasingly aggressive with content fingerprinting and reputation tracking. As John points out, cold email has always been an uphill battle because business runs on human relationships. Instead of blasting strangers, your focus should be on building familiarity. By the time an email lands in someone’s inbox, they should already recognize your name, know your face from social platforms, or know your content from an industry community.

The Discipline of Consistency: Keep Pedaling

Visibility does not happen by accident. John uses a cycling analogy: you do not get anywhere unless you keep pedaling. Whether you are posting practical lessons on LinkedIn, participating in communities on Reddit, or publishing on Substack, you have to establish a steady cadence. John highlights a realistic truth: 80% of what you put out might fall flat, but the 20% that connects will build the relationships and pipeline you need.

Rented Channels vs. Owned Media

Publishers and brands are learning a hard lesson: search algorithms and social platforms can wipe out your traffic overnight. Relying purely on rented reach leaves your business vulnerable. That is why media companies and independent creators are turning toward owned platforms like Substack, Beehiiv, and dedicated email newsletters. Readers and customers are willing to support high-value, original content.

Key Takeaways

Conclusion

Building a real brand is a marathon, not a sprint. Stop chasing quick automation shortcuts that treat prospects like numbers, and focus on delivering genuine value across platforms.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective transactional and broadcast email platform, check out Anypost.

For ongoing business growth discussions, join our community at SMB Marketing and Business Tips on Skool.

Connect with John on Linkedin
Check out Upland Adestra
Check out John’s Book, Becoming the Expert

Audio:

The post HMBT #314: Email Is Still King appeared first on .

In this episode, I speak with Cloe Luv, Renaissance Woman and Success Coach. She helps ambitious entrepreneurs launch or scale their businesses to 6-7 figures.

We discuss the importance of mindset, authentic storytelling, and the transformational moments that lead to success in business.

Highlights:
Mindset is crucial for success in business. It involves having a positive attitude, finding the bright spots, and staying ready for opportunities.
Authentic storytelling is a powerful tool for connecting with your audience and building a loyal following. Sharing your brand story and transformational moments can inspire others and help them see themselves in your journey.
Listening to your feelings and understanding where they are coming from can guide you in creating a strategy for addressing challenges and pursuing your goals.
Everyone has a story to share, regardless of their background. Your experiences, challenges, and achievements can resonate with others and attract the right audience to your business. Don’t underestimate the power of your unique journey.

Website: cloeluv.com

Email: [email protected]

Check out Cloe’s books: 

The Branding Handbook 

The 365 Gratitude Journal

Connect and follow:

Instagram

Facebook

LinkedIn

Video:

Audio:

The post HMBT #286: Show Yourself Some Luv appeared first on .

In this episode, I interview Danielle Perlin-Good.

Danielle is The Soul-Aligned Ghostwriter and an award-winning, best-selling author. She empowers thought leaders to amplify their lasting legacies by unleashing their nonfiction content, creating a profound impact, and transforming lives. With a wealth of experience, she has contributed to over twenty books, ranging from memoirs and thought leadership books to business and personal growth books. Additionally, she provides book and story coaching, editing, and consulting services to C-suite executives, ensuring their messaging is concise, beautiful, and genuinely authentic.

Since 2008, Danielle has built an impressive portfolio that includes hundreds of articles, books, social media content, e-newsletters, and more. Her journey began with working overnight shifts at the Chicago Tribune Company, but her talent and dedication soon led her to excel in corporate digital marketing roles. Notably, she contributed her expertise to Albert Whitman & Co., a prestigious children’s publishing house.

Harnessing a powerful combination of mindset techniques, exceptional editing, and adept interviewing skills, Danielle brings her unique touch to the table. She incorporates quantum healing modalities to ensure her clients’ transformative journey results in a beautifully crafted and publishable book that they will cherish for a lifetime.

Danielle enjoys various activities in her free time, like swimming, yoga, spinning, cycling, and boxing. She loves being outdoors and spending time with her husband and two children, cherishing precious moments together.

Join us as we discuss the role of a ghostwriter, the importance of storytelling, and the value of thought leadership platforms. We also touch on the saturation of content online and the significance of listening in today’s digital age.

Highlights:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellebperlingood/

Website: https://www.thesoulalignedghostwriter.com/

Video:

Audio:

The post HMBT #285: To Ghost Or Not To Ghost appeared first on .