Ready to rethink your social media playbook in 2026? In this episode, Sydney explains why a mixed social media strategy isn't just smart, it's the competitive edge every local business should be using in 2026. If you're tired of chasing the latest trends or burning out trying to "be everywhere," this episode will give you a clear, practical roadmap for building a resilient social media strategy that actually brings customers over the finish line.

The truth is, ads and organic content each have superpowers—but they shine brightest when used together. Sydney explains what ads do that organic content can't (and vice versa), and why trying to rely on just one leaves money on the table.

What You'll Discover:

• Why ads are non-negotiable for local businesses to drive awareness

• Why your organic social media strategy shouldn't be ignored and how to use it in a way that builds relationships with customers

• How to implement a mixed social media strategy yourself using the framework Sydney uses with her own clients

• How to use your organic social media content to save money on your ads

• The common mistakes local businesses make with a mixed social media strategy and how to avoid them

Wondering if Sydney's advice will work for your local business? Good news: Sydney doesn't give you a rigid checklist. Instead she hands you a flexible framework including not only the "why" behind every recommendation but specific, repeatable tactics so you can adapt the framework to your business, your team size, and your budget.

Key Takeaways You'll Learn:

• A simple framework to use as you map out your social media content for the new year

• How to combine paid ads and organic content to build awareness while deepening relationships - a winning combination to get more customers through your door consistently

• The exact steps you can take to use social media to grow your business and the common mistakes to avoid along the way

This episode will give you the confidence to stop guessing and start building a social presence that's not only sustainable, but strategic and profitable. Tune in to learn how to make your social media mix work for you in 2026 without the overwhelm.

Drive More Foot Traffic Workshop

In this hands-on, one-hour workshop, you'll learn step-by-step how to set up your first Facebook & Instagram ad campaign and start driving more customers to your local business. No tech overwhelm, no large budget required. Join Sydney on January 6th at 11AM EST. Save your seat here.

Connect with Sydney:

Instagram: @MarathonMarketingBranding (DM Sydney with your questions!)

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Want to get started with ads but need some help? Listen to my episode about designing local ads that work.