Digital Marketing That Works: Fractional CMO Insights with Dylan Bennett

Digital Marketing That Works: Fractional CMO Insights with Dylan Bennett

Ready to make your marketing smarter, not harder? In this episode of the Simply Smart Business podcast, Nicki Ong sits down with Dylan Bennett, fractional CMO and founder of DYB Media, to unpack practical strategies small businesses can use right now.  From why digital marketing outperforms traditional in trackable ROI, to how storytelling and authenticity build trust, to the systems that keep your content consistent, Dylan shares what actually moves the needle. He also demystifies the fractional CMO role and explains how part-time leadership can accelerate strategy without the full-time price tag. You’ll hear how Dylan repurposes one podcast into 30+ assets, why actionable metrics matter, and how to use AI as an aid – not a crutch. If you want clear, repeatable processes and better results, this one’s for you. Key Takeaways * Digital beats traditional for measurable ROI and lower barriers to entry * Fractional CMO = strategic leadership, part-time cost, full-scope impact * Storytelling + authenticity = trust, connection, conversion * Repurposing multiplies reach: one topic can fuel 10–30+ assets * AI is a tool for structure and speed; your voice delivers the value * Time-blocking and systems reduce overwhelm and increase consistency * “One rep at a time”: focus on the next best action to build momentum About Dylan Bennett Dylan Bennett is a fractional CMO and founder of DYB Media. He helps small businesses build simple, effective digital marketing systems – leading strategy, teams, and implementation to drive measurable growth. Connect with Dylan on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/the_dybennett), LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-dybennett/), or via his website: https://dybmedia.org. -- ABOUT YOUR HOST Since 2008, Nicki’s been optimizing websites, copywriting, and blogging, while embracing her passion for working with other small business owners to improve their online presence using digital marketing. She’s a mompreneur (with an incredible 6-year-old son!), wife to an amazing hubby, fitness and nutrition enthusiast, author-to-be, red wine lover, Scorpio, and eternal optimist. One could say she’s multi-passionate. Learn more and connect with Nicki here: https://nickiong.com/simplesprout/

From Public Education to Soul Purpose Mentor with Amber Cornwall

Are you living in alignment with your true gifts? On this episode of the Simply Smart Business podcast, host Nicki Ong sits down with Amber Cornwall, a soul embodiment mentor and soul purpose coach who helps people monetize their unique gifts and live their soul’s purpose.  Amber shares her inspiring journey from a public education career to becoming a sought-after spiritual mentor, offering powerful lessons about alignment, authenticity, and transformation. If you’ve been searching for ways to bring more meaning and ease into your work and life, Amber’s insights will resonate deeply. This episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories that will encourage you to step into your full potential. Key Takeaways   * Amber opens up about leaving a decade-long career in public education and how her “awakening moment” led her to discover her true path as a spiritual mentor.   * Learn how being out of alignment creates challenges and how tuning in to your own frequency allows life and business to flow with ease.   * Amber shares how understanding and leveraging your personal gifts can lead to fulfillment and financial success.   * Amber discusses how grounding into the present moment enhances not just your personal satisfaction but also your overall impact as an entrepreneur.   * Discover Amber's pivotal advice on stepping into your ideal story, focusing on your desires, and trusting the "how" will come.   Connect with Amber Connect with Amber on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/ambercornwallcoaching - or learn more about her services on her website - https://ambercornwall.com/ -- ABOUT YOUR HOST Since 2008, Nicki’s been optimizing websites, copywriting, and blogging, while embracing her passion for working with other small business owners to improve their online presence using digital marketing. She’s a mompreneur (with an incredible 6-year-old son!), wife to an amazing hubby, fitness and nutrition enthusiast, author-to-be, red wine lover, Scorpio, and eternal optimist. One could say she’s multi-passionate. Learn more and connect with Nicki here: https://nickiong.com/simplesprout/

Elevating Brands & Building a Life You Love with Melissa Delaney

On this episode of the Simply Smart Business podcast, host Nicki Ong chats with Melissa Delaney, a dynamic professional with a unique blend of expertise in high-profile event management and legal marketing. Melissa shares her insights on creating purpose-driven events, leveraging authentic marketing, and building a career that aligns with your lifestyle.   Melissa’s experience spans managing luxurious, unforgettable events and helping law firms enhance their digital presence. She reveals how core values like elevated service and authenticity can set brands apart, ensure meaningful connections, and inspire client loyalty.   If you’re looking to create standout experiences or craft marketing strategies that truly connect, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiring stories.   Key Takeaways   * Small, thoughtful actions can elevate experiences and set your brand apart.   * Authentic marketing connects deeply with audiences, creating trust and loyalty.   * A growth mindset transforms mistakes into opportunities for success.   * Purpose-driven events can strengthen internal and external relationships.   * Aligning your work with your lifestyle fosters greater fulfillment and impact.   Connect with Melissa Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn for insights on event management and legal marketing strategies: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissalapuma/ or visit her website (https://www.pipresence.com/) for more information! -- ABOUT YOUR HOST Since 2008, Nicki’s been optimizing websites, copywriting, and blogging, while embracing her passion for working with other small business owners to improve their online presence using digital marketing. She’s a mompreneur (with an incredible 6-year-old son!), wife to an amazing hubby, fitness and nutrition enthusiast, author-to-be, red wine lover, Scorpio, and eternal optimist. One could say she’s multi-passionate. Learn more and connect with Nicki here: https://nickiong.com/simplesprout/

Building Teams, Giving Back & Starting Something New with Lauren Kim

On this episode of the Simply Smart Business podcast, host Nicki Ong chats with Lauren Kim, a passionate marketing director, creative strategist, and team culture enthusiast. Lauren leads marketing at Team Orthodontics, an Arizona-based orthodontic practice known for their unforgettable experiences and creating beautiful, confident smiles. Lauren shares her inspiring career journey, from her early days in orthodontics to leading marketing and spearheading initiatives that drive both team and business success. She reveals her passion for systems, building strong teams, and fostering authentic relationships with customers.  Lauren also dives into the importance of culture fit in the workplace and balancing motherhood with career aspirations. Lastly, she gives us a sneak peek into her exciting new venture, Straight Up, designed to empower doctors and their teams to elevate their marketing strategies. Don’t miss this episode packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories. Key Takeaways * Strong Culture Fit Drives Success: Working for a company that aligns with your values fosters growth and fulfillment. * Team Development is Key: Regular one-on-one meetings can build trust, strengthen culture, and empower teams to succeed. * The Power of Customer Feedback: Engaging with customers throughout their experience helps provide better services and fosters strong relationships. * Giving Back Matters: Initiatives like the Smile Scholarship demonstrate the power of businesses positively impacting their community. * Balance is Possible: Through time management and prioritizing passions, it’s possible to juggle multiple roles effectively. Connect with Lauren  Connect with Lauren to learn more about her work, initiatives, and upcoming coaching program, Straight Up: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurenvkim/ Explore how this Arizona-based practice (Team Orthodontics - https://teamorthodontics.com/) is transforming smiles and giving back to the community. -- ABOUT YOUR HOST Since 2008, Nicki’s been optimizing websites, copywriting, and blogging, while embracing her passion for working with other small business owners to improve their online presence using digital marketing. She’s a mompreneur (with an incredible 6-year-old son!), wife to an amazing hubby, fitness and nutrition enthusiast, author-to-be, red wine lover, Scorpio, and eternal optimist. One could say she’s multi-passionate. Learn more and connect with Nicki here: https://nickiong.com/simplesprout/

Fitness, Community & Business Integrity with Erica Roselius

In this episode, host Nicki Ong is joined by the inspiring Erica Roselius, personal trainer, fitness studio owner, and founder of Driven Fitness. For nearly two decades, Erica has been helping women maintain their health, with a special focus on navigating fitness through menopause. This episode dives deep into Erica’s fascinating entrepreneurial journey, the power of community in driving customer loyalty, and how professionalism, integrity, and transparency create a foundation for small business success. If you’re ready to be inspired and pick up actionable insights to build community and trust in your business, this episode is not to be missed! Key Takeaways Here’s what you’ll gain from tuning in: * Fitness Through Menopause: Erica shares her expertise on fitness strategies for women during this life stage, including how she became a specialist in this underserved area. * Building Communities That Last: Discover how Erica uses events and programs to foster connections that go beyond fitness classes. * Creating a Brand Built on Core Values: Learn how professionalism, integrity, and transparency have shaped Erica’s business decisions. * Overcoming Challenges in Business: From pivoting during COVID to adjusting to a rural community, Erica reflects on the lessons she’s learned along the way. * Practical Marketing Insights: Erica reveals how grassroots marketing, like leveraging local Facebook groups, has helped her grow her business in a small-town setting. About Erica Roselius Erica Roselius is the founder of Driven Fitness, specializing in helping women, particularly those navigating menopause, improve their health and fitness. With certifications in weight loss and fitness through menopause, Erica empowers her clients with expert knowledge and support. She also believes deeply in creating communities through her fitness programs, offering not only exercise but a space for connection and support. When she’s not coaching clients, Erica enjoys exploring the scenic outdoors of Northern Nevada, where she’s successfully built a close-knit fitness community. Connect with Erica on her website: https://drivenfitnessnevada.com/ or on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drivenfitnessnow/. -- ABOUT YOUR HOST Since 2008, Nicki’s been optimizing websites, copywriting, and blogging, while embracing her passion for working with other small business owners to improve their online presence using digital marketing. She’s a mompreneur (with an incredible 6-year-old son!), wife to an amazing hubby, fitness and nutrition enthusiast, author-to-be, red wine lover, Scorpio, and eternal optimist. One could say she’s multi-passionate. Learn more and connect with Nicki here: https://nickiong.com/simplesprout/