#202: Marketing Predictions… Were We Right or Wrong?

Last year, we made some bold marketing predictions for 2025 and today we’re circling back to see which ones actually hit and which ones missed the mark. From community centered marketing and human first brands to SEO, video, and the rise of AI, we’re breaking down what truly shifted and what surprised us the most. Then we’re looking ahead to 2026 with a few unfiltered predictions about where marketing is really headed next. If you like honest takes, real world examples, and a little hindsight mixed with forward thinking, this episode is a fun one to press play on.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/2026-predictionsLinks Mentioned in This Episode:#153: https://duocollective.com/blog/seo-branding-and-marketing-predictions-for-2025Tuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

SEO can feel like a giant question mark, especially when everyone online is telling you something different. In today’s episode, we’re simplifying the whole thing and walking you through exactly where to start with SEO without the jargon or overwhelm. We break it down into three clear stages so you can stop spinning, focus on what actually matters right now, and build momentum instead of stress. If SEO has been sitting on your to do list because you do not know where to begin, this episode is your permission slip to start simple and move forward with confidence!Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/seo-foundationsLinks Mentioned in This Episode: https://duocollective.com/seo-on-tapTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

We cannot believe we’re saying this… Duo On Air just hit 200 episodes. To celebrate, we’re taking you on a walk down memory lane with 10 must-listen episodes that shaped Duo, sparked the biggest conversations, and continue to help business owners build brands that actually work. From branding clarity and SEO foundations to mindset shifts, partnerships, and sustainable growth, these episodes still hit just as hard today.Tune in for our favorite throwback episodes, why they still matter, and how they connect to where your business is headed next. Whether you’re brand new here or have been listening since episode one, this one feels like a big group hug. Thanks for being part of the Duo community. Here’s to the next 200!Links Mentioned in This Episode:#7: https://duocollective.com/blog/brand-strategy-vs-brand-design/#73: https://duocollective.com/blog/backlinks-will-improve-your-seo#88: https://duocollective.com/blog/how-many-channels-to-market-your-business#102: https://duocollective.com/blog/website-pages-you-didnt-know-you-needed-for-seo#129: https://duocollective.com/blog/what-comes-first-seo-or-branding-services#161: https://duocollective.com/blog/biggest-seo-mistakes#186: https://duocollective.com/blog/seo-is-dead-why-seo-is-actually-less-complicated-today#171: https://duocollective.com/blog/creating-habits-that-stick#92: https://duocollective.com/blog/importance-of-nervous-system-health-as-an-entrepreneurEpisode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/best-episodes-of-duo-on-airTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

Feeling stuck because you do not know where to start in your business or marketing? You are not alone and you are not behind. In today’s episode, we are unpacking why overwhelm happens so often for new and growing business owners and why it usually comes from a lack of clarity, not a lack of capability. We walk through the four common “start here” stages we see entrepreneurs fall into and help you figure out which one you are actually in right now. From building solid foundations, to refreshing a brand that no longer fits, to creating content that finally connects, to knowing when it is time to bring in support. If marketing feels heavy, confusing, or like you are trying to do everything at once, this episode will help you slow down, get focused, and find your next right step without the overwhelm.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/new-business-overwhelmLinks Mentioned in This Episode: duocollective.com/start-hereTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

Podcasting has quickly become one of our favorite corners of the business, mostly because we get to yap, teach, and connect with you in a way that feels way more human. Today we’re sitting down with podcast growth expert Kylee Chandler to talk about how to actually grow a podcast without burning out or posting 24/7 on social media. We get into batching, outsourcing, smart repurposing, and why podcasting can be such a powerful long-term play for small businesses. If starting a podcast has been on your “someday” list or you already have one and want it to do more than just sit there, this episode is full of real talk and doable strategies you can grow into.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/how-to-grow-a-podcastTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

Getting your next client doesn’t always mean posting more, launching something big, or completely reinventing your business. Sometimes it’s about getting a little more creative and a lot more intentional with what you already have. In this episode, we’re sharing seven practical, non-icky ways to bring in your next client. From reconnecting with past clients and turning wins into simple case studies, to creating quick-win offers, pocket projects, and collaborations that actually feel aligned, these ideas are designed to help you build momentum without burning out. If your inquiries feel quiet or you’re craving fresh energy in your marketing, this episode will help you spot opportunities that are already within reach and start showing up with more clarity and confidence.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/ideas-to-get-a-new-clientTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

In this episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes to share exactly how we market at Duo Collective— the real workflows, the support we rely on, and the data-driven decisions that shape our strategy. From our Monday podcast repurposing machine to our tiny-but-mighty email rhythm to the pieces of marketing we’ve intentionally stopped doing, we’re pulling back the curtain on what’s actually working for us right now as a growing brand and two moms building a business with heart. You’ll learn where we’re doubling down in 2026, what we’re letting go of, and how to choose the right marketing focus for your business based on clarity, data, and what feels good. If marketing has ever felt overwhelming, this episode will help you simplify and rethink what growth can look like.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/marketing-plan-example-for-duo-collectiveTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

If you’re in a slow, discouraging, what-the-heck-am-I-even-doing season, this episode is the reminder you didn’t know you needed. Because every business has messy chapters and hard months and moments where you swear you’re the only one struggling. You’re not. Today we’re talking about what it really looks like to move through a crappy season without giving up on yourself or your business. We’re unpacking why these seasons happen, how world-changing entrepreneurs have walked through their own low points, and the simple shifts that can help you find clarity, traction, and hope again.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/how-to-not-give-upTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

Today we’re flipping the script on what it really means to give back. Because let’s be honest, the holiday season can stretch your time, energy, and budget to the limit. But generosity doesn’t have to come from your wallet. We are sharing creative and heartfelt ways to make an impact even when money feels tight. From using your platform to spotlight others to hosting a connection-filled gathering instead of a cookie exchange, you’ll walk away with ideas that feel simple, doable, and full of heart.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/ways-to-give-back-to-the-communityTuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/

In today’s episode, we’re calling out the Q4 panic that hits every entrepreneur this time of year. You know the one… racing to squeeze in last-minute sales, hit impossible goals, and prove your year was “successful.” But here’s the truth: Q4 isn’t the end. It’s the setup for what’s next.We’re sharing why your calendar year doesn’t have to define your business timeline, how to spot your own seasonal rhythms, and what to focus on instead of forcing results. Whether this season feels busy or quiet, you’ll walk away with practical ways to use Q4 for reflection, strategy, and rest.Episode Show Notes: https://duocollective.com/blog/start-a-new-q4-planLinks Mentioned in This Episode: #50 https://duocollective.com/blog/how-to-feel-more-confident-about-your-business-finances (oldie but a goodie!)#141 https://duocollective.com/blog/annual-business-planning-meeting#173 https://duocollective.com/blog/what-to-know-before-your-first-hire Tuesday Tips & Sips: https://duocollective.com/subscribeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/duoonairpodcast/