Ever feel like you're doing everything and not getting leads? In this episode, Lauren and Aurrie break down the entire marketing funnel from top to bottom, sharing real examples that show exactly how brands move customers from awareness to purchase—and beyond. Whether you're struggling with brand awareness, nurturing leads, or turning one-time buyers into repeat customers, we've got your map to navigate each stage of the funnel.

Episode Highlights

 [00:01:11] Why the funnel still matters (despite what "new age" marketers say)
 [00:02:15] Viewing your funnel as an hourglass (what happens after purchase)
 [00:04:32] Top of funnel strategies: Focus on awareness, knowledge, and interest
 [00:08:12] How many touchpoints it really takes before conversion (hint: 6-8 is on the low end)
 [00:11:23] Middle of funnel deep dive: Nurturing leads who know you exist
 [00:14:34] Creative lead magnets that actually work in 2025 (beyond basic downloads)
 [00:19:50] Retargeting strategies that move people through your funnel
 [00:21:19] The real conversion rates you should expect at each funnel stage
 [00:26:11] Bottom of funnel: Turning transactions into experiences
 [00:33:17] Why retention marketing deserves more of your attention
 [00:40:02] How to measure success at each funnel stage
 [00:44:00] Warning signs your funnel is broken (and how to fix it)

What You'll Learn

• How the marketing funnel applies to both B2B and B2C businesses
• Why your audience might need up to 21 touchpoints before converting
• The difference between top, middle, and bottom funnel tactics
• Creative lead magnet ideas beyond standard PDF downloads
• How to use journey-focused content that segments your audience
• Why community building is critical for retention
• Real metrics to track at each funnel stage
• Signs your funnel is broken and how to fix it
• How to simplify an overcomplicated marketing funnel

Meet Your Hosts

Lauren Loreto

• Founder of Brand Good Time
• Expert in content marketing and web design
• Website: brandgoodtime.com
• Instagram: @brandgoodtime

Aurrie Hicks

• Founder of Hopson Rae
• Expert in digital content and brand strategy
• Website: hopsonrae.com
• Instagram: @hopsonrae

Resources Mentioned

• Brand Checklist and Messaging Guidelines Document
• Video Ask (chatbot tool)
• Little Sleepies (customer community example)
• Goody (gifting platform example)
• Hiya Vitamins (customer experience example)
• Wild Bird (touchpoint example)

Connect With Us
Have questions about your marketing funnel? Our DMs and emails are open! Visit mappedoutpod.com to submit your questions for our Flight Deck segment where we'll dive deeper into your specific funnel challenges.

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