Marketing with Confidence: Recent Episodes
Mary-Anne Amies
Say no to marketing overwhelm! If you are looking to increase your digital and online marketing confidence, whether you’re a business owner or a marketing professional, then subscribe and listen!
Launching a Digital Marketing Agency back in 2010, I’ve worked with hundreds of business owners, and in this podcast will share what I’ve seen along the way, my take on how to master your marketing with confidence, plus I’ll be interviewing tons of business owners and marketing professionals who will share how they found their feet in the ever changing world of digital and online marketing.
I’m Mary-Anne Amies, and I’m so excited to be your host, with a career in marketing spanning more than two decades, I am a passionate mentor, coach and speaker, who is dedicated to helping business owners and marketing professionals to build digital confidence without the overwhelm. I can’t wait to help you find your marketing confidence!
If you want to find out more visit www.maryanneamies.com
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, we're diving deep into how to scale your Facebook ads effectively in 2026 amidst significant changes and the rise of AI integration.
You'll hear insights on adapting to Facebook's latest features, particularly the new AI-powered Andromeda update designed to optimise ad delivery. This episode serves as a comprehensive guide for navigating AI-driven changes in the digital advertising landscape so you can make the most out of your ad spend while keeping your brand's essence intact.
Get ready for more Meta ads success in 2026!
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, I share the most common questions about paid advertising, drawing from 13-14 years of industry experience and answer them too.
We cover everything from the difference between Google Ads and Meta (Facebook) ads in terms of user intent, to setting appropriate budgets for different platforms, and best practices for running ads. The episode also covers the importance of click-through rates, tracking performance, platform selection, and the impact of Google Ads on SEO.
If you've had a burning question about Meta and Google Ads, this episode is sure to answer it!
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, I'm sharing the 10 minute hack so you can effectively boost posts with a strategy that gets approval from seasoned ads managers.
Discover tips and insights on how to occasionally boost posts and still achieve exceptional results by following a strategy-approved approach.
It's a great listen, while you step through boosting with strategy!
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, Mary-Anne is joined by Tenai Seymour, founder of Ads Haus, who specialises in Meta and Spotify ads.
They discuss Tenai's journey into the world of ads management, the balance of creativity and data in digital marketing, and the importance of ongoing testing and adaptation in response to platform changes.
The conversation also highlights the untapped potential of Spotify ads for small businesses, including their benefits, targeting capabilities, and cost-effectiveness. As peak ad season approaches, they offer insights into preparing effective ad strategies without succumbing to the pressure of sales-driven periods.
It's a great episode to get you thinking of new strategies as we head toward peak ad season!
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, we explore Meta's new one campaign strategy that promises to simplify ad management and improve results.
By consolidating multiple campaigns into one, marketers can benefit from reduced audience overlap, faster learning, and better budget utilisation. We discuss the integration of Andromeda, Meta's AI tool, to optimise ad placements and audience targeting.
You'll learn about setting up a broad audience campaign, the importance of diverse creative assets, and ensuring your conversions API is active.
Whether you're managing a small or large budget, this episode provides actionable insights to help you make the most of Meta's advanced ad tools.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, Mary-Anne speaks with Dante St James one of Australia’s most sought-after speakers and trainers on the digital economy and social media.
The conversation covers the importance of knowing your strengths and weaknesses, how to use paid ads on multiple platforms effectively, and strategies for campaign management. Dante also highlights the role of AI and the significance of being actively engaged with your marketing efforts. As one of five contracted Meta Lead Trainers in Australia, he also shared his tips on leveraging creative approaches for paid ad campaigns.
A must listen for anyone building a business and looking to master paid ads!
You can connect with Dante on LinkedIn or Instagram by searching Dante St James.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, the focus is on how to make paid ads truly pay off.
We discuss the common failures in ad strategies, why merely boosting posts is ineffective, and the importance of a well-thought-out strategy. I double down on why understanding campaign objectives and knowing your business metrics are important and the critical role of creative content, and testing and optimising ads. Practical tools like Meta, Klaviyo, Google Analytics, and ChatGPT are mentioned to enhance ad performance.
It's a must-listen for anyone who uses paid ads as a strategy in their business, but isn't driving the results they expect.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, discover three effective Google Ads hacks you can implement in just 10 minutes to enhance your ad performance and reduce wasted spend.
Learn how to utilise the search terms report to exclude irrelevant keywords, understand the importance of match types (exact, phrase, and broad) to tighten your targeting, and optimise your ad copy to improve click-through rates, quality scores, and cost per click.
The quick fixes discussed will help you make the most out of your ad campaigns by directing more relevant traffic to your site.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, we delve into Meta's latest update, Andromeda, which promises a revolution in ad targeting and personalisation.
We explain how Andromeda utilises advanced AI to match the right ads to the right consumers at optimal times, changing the way advertisers need to craft and manage their campaigns. Plus key takeaways to leverage Andromeda’s full potential.
The episode provides practical advice on adapting to this new system, ensuring your ad strategies are both effective and scalable and what to do right now to start seeing the results
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, Mary-Anne welcomes Kerry Anne Nelson and asks Do You Ads?
The episode highlights the importance of having clear strategies, defined goals, and structuring work processes to achieve higher productivity. Kerry shares insights on the challenges and solutions involved in running paid ads and the impact of human engagement in business operations. The episode also tackles the frustrations with Meta’s ad accounts and how businesses can adapt and leverage tools and human-centric strategies for long-term success.
Whether you’re looking to streamline operations or navigate the complexities of digital advertising, this episode provides valuable insights and actionable steps.
You can connect with Michelle across Instagram and LinkedIn, by searching Kerry Anne Nelson.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, the focus is on the $20 ad strategy and how to achieve meaningful results even with a smaller budget.
We dive into the benefits of a $20 daily budget, and how to leverage it for testing creatives, understanding market responses, and collecting early data before scaling. Practical tips on optimising content, improving landing pages, and enhancing the quality of leads are shared to help listeners achieve better insights and marketing success with a smaller investment.
A must listen to help you maximise ads with even a small budget!
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, we break down the process of writing effective ad copy in just 10 minutes, which you'll learn in this 10 Minute Hack.
I'll take you through a simple and repeatable 4-part formula: Hook, Problem, Offer, and Call to Action (CTA). Discover how to grab attention with a compelling hook, address the customer’s problem, present your offer, and guide them towards action. Plus use tools like ChatGPT to generate even more ad copy variations for testing.
This episode is packed with practical tips on improving your ad copy efficiently to achieve better results in your ad campaigns.
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, we dive into the essentials of warm audience targeting in 2025, focusing on rebooting your retargeting strategies to the results you need.
The episode discusses four key warm audience segments and explains how to effectively retarget each segment to boost engagement and conversions. Plus, we dive into creative tips to really stop the scroll and get warm audiences converting.
This episode aims to help marketers refresh stale retargeting campaigns and maximise their impact.
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, Kate Merryweather, a LinkedIn Strategist discusses the untapped potential of LinkedIn for businesses.
She highlights the platform's advantages over Instagram, particularly for small businesses that struggle with Instagram’s visual demands. Kate emphasises the efficacy of LinkedIn in connecting with a different audience, and shares insights on how businesses can effectively build their presence organically on LinkedIn.
The conversation also touches on the role of ads, misconceptions about their value, and how proper targeting on LinkedIn can open new avenues for businesses. The discussion concludes with practical tips for business owners to improve their LinkedIn profiles and increase their network.
You can connect with Kate on LinkedIn, by searching Kate Merryweather.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, we explore three crucial areas you need to address before running your digital ad campaigns.
Based on nearly 15 years of experience in the digital marketing industry, the episode emphasises the importance of having a solid foundation to avoid costly mistakes. The three main focuses are offer clarity, optimising your landing page, and ensuring pixel and tracking setup.
The episode is packed with practical tips for making your ads compelling, ensuring fast page load times, and thoroughly tracking conversions to optimise your campaign's performance. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to turn their ad spend into successful conversions.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, we dive into the latest meta AI enhancements with a 10 Minute Hack.
I'm sharing what to embrace, as well as what enhancements to avoid like advantage+ (especially if brand identity matters to you!). I even open up the Ads Manager platform and walk step by step through what to say yes to when it comes to creative enhancements, to make sure your ad is optimised but on brand.
You'll earn how to leverage AI while maintaining control over your advertising strategy to optimise performance and results. A quick listen that is packed with actionable tips.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, the focus is on the intricacies of scaling ad campaigns effectively to grow your business.
I'm sharing the negatives of scaling too quickly and provide a detailed guide on identifying the right time and method to increase your ad budget.
We'll break down signs that indicate a campaign is ready to scale, the importance of stable performance metrics, and strategies for incremental, horizontal, vertical, and creative scaling.
Plus, the episode covers crucial metrics to monitor during scaling and offers practical advice on making data-driven decisions for sustained campaign success.
If you're thinking of scaling, or are wondering why your scaling has tanked your results, this is a must listen!
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, I'm joined by Michelle Fraigas, who specialises in helping women feel confident to speak on stages and share their stories.
We discuss the challenges business owners face with public speaking and the intrinsic fear of judgment. Michelle shares her journey with paid advertising, highlighting her initial missteps with boosting posts and the subsequent realisation of the need for a strategic approach to ads.
We explore the advantages of combining organic reach with paid ads and the critical role of human interaction in business growth. Plus, the evolving landscape of social media advertising and the increasing importance of genuine, unpolished content to build trust with audiences.
You can connect with Michelle across Instagram and LinkedIn, by searching Michelle Fraigas.
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, we explore the crucial question of who should manage your ad campaigns: in-house, DIY, or an agency?
Drawing on 15 years of experience, we break down the pros and cons of each approach. DIY offers low costs and total control but comes with a steep learning curve and potential mistakes. Hiring an in-house manager ensures brand intimacy and quick turnaround but can be expensive and limiting without ongoing professional development. Turning to an agency provides access to strategic experts and broad insights but may lack deep brand familiarity.
Practical tips for each option are discussed, helping you decide which is best for your business stage and goals.
Tune in to gain valuable insights into optimising your ad management strategy.
Click here for the Wise Up Marketing website and to find out more about our Ads Health Check.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, we're back with another 10 Minute Hack .
Get ready to conduct an effective ad audit in under 10 minutes. You will learn five practical steps to evaluate your ads without needing advanced data analytics. The guide covers assessing the hook, visuals, call to action, key metrics, and landing page experience. Plus, there's a bonus hack to ensure your ad resonates with your audience.
In this epsisode of Ready Set Paid Ads, we explore the AI tools to avoid getting bogged down with busy work and instead focus on areas that drive the most results.
We deep dive into tools like Smartly.io for cross-platform ad management, Reveal Bot for rule-based automation and performance alerts, and ChatGPT for strategy and planning assistance. Plus the pros and cons of Creative.AI for rapid generation of creative ad variations and much more!
Find out which tools can work for you and can be integrated into your tech stack to improve ad campaign performance and streamline your workflow.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, we're joined by Christine Corcoran, a business mindset coach and high ticket sales strategist.
We delve into the importance of overcoming mindset blocks, particularly around money and imposter syndrome, to achieve business growth. We discuss the critical role of personal growth in entrepreneurship, the necessity of adopting effective sales processes, and the benefits of leveraging paid ads to broaden business reach.
It's a great conversation that will uplift and motivate you too!
You can connect with Christine across Instagram and LinkedIn, by searching Christine Corcoran. Or head to Christine's website here.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, we dive into the common issue of ad fatigue and how to tackle it with a strategic creative refresh cycle.
We explore the signs of ad fatigue, such as falling click-through rates and rising costs per conversion, and discuss how to reset visuals and messaging. The episode outlines a detailed approach to monitoring ad performance at the ad level, rotating within various hooks and formats, and using AI tools to ideate and create new content efficiently.
Practical tips on using analytics, rotating creative formats, and maintaining a robust testing protocol provide invaluable guidance for sustaining ad performance and preventing fatigue.
Download the Creative Refresh Checklist here: https://maryanneamies.com/creative-refresh-checklist-2/
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, we introduce the new 'Ad Hacks' series featuring practical, 10-minute episodes focused on actionable advertising tips.
The episode kicks off with five effective CTA (Call-to-Action) phrases designed to improve your ad conversions. We discuss why sometimes the issue with ad performance lies in weak CTAs rather than audience targeting or creative content. By using clear, actionable, emotionally engaging, and timely CTAs, you can better guide your audience and increase conversion rates.
You'll hear CTAs tailored for different stages of the customer journey, to test and measure in your campaigns and find the most effective approach.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, we are focusing on the importance of metrics in your paid ad campaigns and overall marketing strategies. We delve into common metrics such as Click Through Rate (CTR), Conversion Rate, Cost Per Click (CPC), Return On Ad Spend (ROAS), and Cost Per Acquisition (CPA). Each metric is explained in detail, including how to calculate them and why they are crucial for understanding and optimizing your campaigns.
The episode also touches on the importance of combining hard data with emotional intelligence to get a well-rounded view of your ad performance and making data-driven decisions. Essential tips on proper conversion tracking setup and the implications of various metrics on ad efficiency and budget utilisation are discussed, offering practical advice for both seasoned marketers and newcomers.
We're joined by Emma Lovell in this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, a seasoned digital marketer, the queen of Bleisure and founder of Rest & Receive Retreats.
Emma shares her journey with Paid Ads over the years, highlighting the highs and lows with Meta Ads. We dive into the whole marketing eco-system, and how strategic content planning can help you showcase a business that has multiple focuses - especially when there are campaigns competing for the same air space!
This is an honest and insightful chat full of takeaways for all business owners.
You can connect with Emma across Instagram and LinkedIn, by searching Emma Lovell or at Emmalovell.au and restandreceive.au
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, we delve into three practical paid ad funnels, ready to implement in your business. Featuring a detailed guide on creating a Lead Magnet Funnel tailored for coaches, service providers, and digital product sellers, designed to build email lists and nurture leads. We also explore an E-commerce Product Launch Funnel suitable for product-based brands, focusing on full-funnel strategies to build awareness, generate leads, and convert at launch. Lastly, we discuss a Low Ticket Self-Liquidating Offer Funnel ideal for creators and educators with digital products, offering insights on making digital offers that quickly cover ad costs. Whether you are involved in professional services, coaching, or e-commerce, one of these funnels, or a hybrid of them, can help you set up and optimise your first-ever funnel campaign.
In this episode of Ready Set, Paid Ads, we welcome money mindset mentor Denise Duffield-Thomas. We delve into the intricacies of overcoming money-related mindset blocks, the importance of consistency, and how paid advertising can transform businesses. Denise shares her journey from resisting advertisements due to 'sweat equity' beliefs to embracing them as a vital business strategy. The conversation also explores the impact of cultural and familial money memories, the advantages of new technologies like AI in advertising, and the importance of diversification in marketing strategies. This episode is packed with insights for entrepreneurs looking to balance mindset work with practical business strategies.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, we delve into the concept of marketing funnels, breaking down their purpose and how they can lead to sales. We explore the three stages of a funnel: top of funnel (awareness), middle of funnel (consideration), and bottom of funnel (conversion). Through practical examples and a straightforward approach, this episode aims to demystify how funnels work, especially in the context of paid ads, and offers insights into creating a seamless customer journey. Listeners are encouraged to analyse their own funnels to identify gaps and opportunities for improvement. Stay tuned for part two, where three ready-to-use funnel strategies for different types of businesses will be shared.
In this episode of Ready Set Paid Ads, we are joined by Ashley Boston, a Meta ad and funnel strategist. Ashley shares her journey into digital marketing and her focus on Meta ads.
We discuss the evolution of digital advertising, the importance of strategy, and the challenges of keeping up with platform changes. You'll hear Ashley's thoughts on the role of creative strategy, the integration of AI in ads, and the need for a holistic approach to digital marketing, encompassing organic growth, email strategies, and more.
Ashley emphasises investing in mentorship and education to effectively navigate the complex landscape of Meta ads, while sharing her expertise and lots of laughs along the way. A must-listen for anyone navigating Meta Ads!
You can connect with Ashley across Instagram and LinkedIn, by searching Ashley Boston.
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, we dive into the essential considerations for starting a successful paid ads campaign.
We discuss understanding your ideal client profile, setting up an effective lead management process, knowing your relevant business metrics, and crafting a compelling website or landing page.
Additionally, we discuss budget sustainability and the importance of not relying on ads to fix broader business issues. The episode aims to equip listeners with the knowledge to set up their marketing strategies for long-term success. A must listen before you outsource your paid ads.
If you’d like to understand your business readiness, book in a Digital Audit and receive a 30 minute recorded audit of your digital eco-system and our audit checklist. Use the code RSPA126 for 50% off https://wiseupmarketing.com.au/resources/digital-audit-overview/
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, we are joined by Angela Pickett, an experienced copywriter and aspiring romance writer, to explore the synergy between sales pages and paid ads.
Angela discusses the art of creating effective sales pages, comparing them to the structure of romance stories, and highlights the importance of transparency, structure, and relationship building in sales copy.
The conversation dives into the necessity of aligning ad copy with landing pages, testing various elements to ensure effectiveness, and continuously evolving digital content to maintain relevance and improve results.
Whether you're about to launch a campaign or refine your tactics, this episode is packed with insights you can apply right away. Listen now!
You can connect with Angela across Instagram and LinkedIn, by searching Angela Pickett or https://www.angelapickett.com.au/
In this episode of Ready, Set, Ads, we explore effective strategies to make the most out of your Google Ads budget, with beginner friends tweaks you can make to your Google Ads search campaigns to help save money and drive more clicks to your website.
We dive into the technical aspects of Google Ads, often overlooked due to its less aesthetic-driven nature. Key topics include the importance of the search terms report, the role of ad extensions, and the significance of continual optimisation.
By understanding search behaviour and making incremental adjustments based on data, you can significantly enhance your ad account performance, driving the results you need for sustainable marketing.
Welcome to another episode of Ready, Set, Ads, I’m joined by business and marketing consultant Shannon Stone, and we dive into the big question: Do you need ads to grow your business?
Shannon shares her insights on when ads make sense, why they sometimes don’t work, and how businesses can optimise their marketing ecosystem before pouring money into paid strategies. We discuss the importance of data, pricing strategies, customer retention, and why small tweaks can make a massive impact on conversions.
Shannon also breaks down the mindset shifts business owners need when it comes to marketing, the dangers of jumping on every new trend, and why ads should never be your lifeboat. Whether you're running ads or just thinking about it, this episode will help you make smarter decisions for sustainable business growth.
You can connect with Shannon across Instagram and LinkedIn, by searching Shannon Stone or on her website.
When it comes to paid advertising, not all platforms are created equal. In this episode, we break down the best ad platforms for small businesses, helping you decide where to invest your budget for maximum results.
We explore Facebook & Instagram Ads, TikTok Ads, Google Ads, YouTube Ads, and LinkedIn Ads, highlighting which business types thrive on each platform. Whether you're running an e-commerce store, a service-based business, or a personal brand, we give real-world examples to guide your strategy.
Plus, we discuss how your budget impacts your platform choice, from low-cost organic strategies to high-budget scaling techniques.
By the end of this episode, you'll have a clear roadmap to choosing the right ad platform for your business goals.
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, I sit down with Nataleigh Elzein from Pinch Studios to talk about the big mistake so many businesses make—thinking paid ads are the magic solution to their sales problems. Spoiler: they’re not!
Nataleigh brings her expertise in holistic marketing, sales processes, and systems to explain why marketing and sales need to work together (instead of in silos), and why businesses get burned when they dive into ads without the right foundations in place.
We cover the biggest gaps that cause ads to fail (and how to fix them), why sales and marketing need to be BFFs for business growth, the power of CRM and automation in converting leads and so much more!
Nataleigh shares her insights on building a business that actually converts, not just one that generates leads that go nowhere. Whether you’re considering ads or looking to refine your marketing strategy, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
You can learn more about Pinch Studios and connect with Nataleigh at https://www.pinchstudios.com.au/
Get ready to unpack the complexities and frustrations of AI-powered ad campaigns in this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads.
We are being told more and more to "leave it to the platform" and in this episode we look at the benefits of letting AI optimise your campaigns and make adjustments, versus the drawbacks of limited lack transparency.
I dive in to Meta's Advantage Plus and Google's Performance Max to discuss the challenges of not knowing where your brand is being served, who is seeing your ads, and how conversions are tracked. I breakdown when and why AI powered campaigns may be a good go to, and how to use them wisely.
The episode is filled with practical tips and case studies to help you understand when to use AI Campaigns and when to go back to basics.
If you're looking to learn even more about AI-Powered Campaigns or the Basics, enrol in a live 2 Hour workshop https://thedigitalupgrade.com.au/book-online-workshop/
Whitney Keir is an operations strategist and the founder of Lava Virtual that is dedicated to helping business owners manage operational challenges.
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, she shares how her company has grown backed by the power of paid ads. She shares insights on lead generation, the effectiveness of lead magnets, and the importance of being familiar with ad platforms like Ads Manager. We dive into the pitfalls of boosting posts without clear strategy and the value of understanding marketing data for better decision-making.
A great episode for anyone looking to dive into Ads for their business!
You can connect with Whitney and learn more at https://www.instagram.com/lava.virtual/
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, we explore how Organic & Paid are The Ultimate Social Media Power Couple!
We explore how paid ads can be transformative for your business, but they can't succeed fully without a solid organic foundation. Diving into why a strong organic presence can help refine audience targeting and content effectiveness for paid campaigns, and how paid ads can, in turn, boost organic visibility and engagement.
Packed with real-world examples that highlight the benefits of this symbiotic approach, you'll find new ways to integrate both strategies for maximum ROI.
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, I'm joined by Google Ads specialist Bel Irvine.
Bel shares her journey from initially disliking Google Ads to becoming a dedicated expert in the field. She explains the nuances of managing ad campaigns, addresses common misconceptions, and emphasises the importance of assessing the viability of Google Ads for different businesses.
Throughout the conversation, Bel highlights the importance of having good digital assets, understanding key business metrics, and the need for active client engagement to maximise advertising success.
Bel also compares Google Ads to Meta ads, underlining the high intent of search-based advertising. This discussion is essential for businesses considering Google Ads as part of their marketing strategy.
You can find out more about Bel at https://belindairvine.com/ and explore her Google Ads viability calculator at https://beldigital.com.au/viability-general
Paid ads can feel out of reach for small businesses, but they don't have to be. In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, we dive into actionable strategies for running effective, low-cost campaigns on both Google and Meta.
Learn how to:
- Master Google Ads on a budget: Discover keyword research tactics, campaign types, and optimisation strategies to maximise your ROI without overspending. Avoid common pitfalls like Google Ads Express and learn the power of negative keywords.
- Unlock Meta's potential for less: Explore cost-effective campaign objectives, audience targeting strategies (including lookalikes and retargeting), and creative formats (video, stories, reels, carousels) to engage your audience and drive results.
- Integrate your ecosystem: Understand the crucial role of your website, email marketing, and organic social media in maximising your paid ad investment.
This episode is packed with practical tips and advice to empower you to take control of your paid advertising and achieve real results, even with a limited budget.
If you're looking to learn even more about DIYing your Ads, enrol in a live 2 Hour workshop https://thedigitalupgrade.com.au/book-online-workshop/
As we start a new year, let's reflect on your advertising efforts. In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads we’ll delve into a comprehensive 2024 ad audit.
We’ll start by analysing your campaign performance. Did your campaigns deliver the desired results? Which ones were top performers? Where did you see room for improvement? By breaking down your campaigns, you can identify strengths and weaknesses to inform your future strategies.
Next, we’ll examine your platform setup. Are you leveraging all the features and tools available on platforms like Meta and Google? Are your audience targeting and ad creatives optimised? A thorough platform audit will help ensure that your ads are reaching the right people and driving conversions.
We’ll also discuss the importance of a healthy digital ecosystem. Is your website optimised for conversions? Are your email flows effective? Is your tracking in place and accurate? A well-functioning ecosystem is essential for maximising the impact of your ad campaigns.
Finally, we’ll take a broader look at your overall advertising strategy. Did you have a clear plan? Were your goals realistic and measurable? By reflecting on your strategic approach, you can identify areas for improvement and set yourself up for success in the coming year.
In this episode, Mary-Anne sits down with business coach and podcast host, Ange Henderson, to talk all things paid advertising, discussing strategies for effective ad campaigns, the importance of a strong marketing funnel, and the power of media buying. Ange shares her experiences with both successful and unsuccessful ad campaigns, emphasising the importance of understanding the underlying mechanics of ad platforms. She stresses the need for a comprehensive marketing strategy that extends beyond paid advertising, including organic growth, partnerships, and building a strong online presence. The conversation also touches on the challenges of measuring ROI in the long term and the importance of building trust and authority through consistent, high-quality content.
We'll explore the art of data analysis, the importance of a holistic marketing strategy, and the essential role of skilled ad management.
Want to level up your paid ads game? This episode is your go-to guide, offering practical advice for marketers of all levels.
You can connect with Ange to learn more at https://www.angelahenderson.com.au/.
Tired of your ads underperforming? Ready to unlock the full potential of your paid advertising campaigns? In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, I delve into the seven crucial steps to optimise your business for ad success. Discover how to harness the power of organic social media, optimise your website, and build a robust email strategy to complement your paid efforts.
We'll explore the art of data analysis, the importance of a holistic marketing strategy, and the essential role of skilled ad management.
Want to level up your paid ads game? This episode is your go-to guide, offering practical advice for marketers of all levels.
Join us as we sit down with Carinda from This is Co. who shares her expert insights on leveraging paid advertising to fuel business growth, in this epsode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads!
Discover how to harness the power of low-ticket digital products to drive consistent revenue and build a loyal customer base. We'll delve into the art of crafting compelling ad copy, optimising targeting strategies, and measuring campaign performance. Plus, give some tips on the sneaky Advantage+ optimisations you need to quickly learn to avoid!
Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just starting out, this episode offers actionable tips to elevate your paid advertising game.
You can connect with Carinda to learn more at https://thisisco.com.au/
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, we’re diving into the hot topic that everyone’s whispering (or maybe shouting) about: do paid ads actually kill your organic reach? You’ve heard the rumours – that paying for ads means waving goodbye to your organic growth – but is it really true? Today, I’ll break down the myths, set the record straight, and give you practical tips on making paid and organic reach work together in perfect harmony.
From my own experience, I’ll show you why paid ads don’t “tank” your organic reach but can actually give it a boost! Find out how to attract followers who’ll stick around, get insights into using lookalike audiences, and learn how a few tweaks can make your ads support rather than sabotage your organic presence.
Ready to stop worrying about “paying to play” and start winning at both paid and organic? Listen in, and get the inside scoop on turning those paid clicks into long-term, loyal followers.
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, we’re joined by PR expert Odette Barry from Odette & Co. to explore how PR and paid ads can work together to amplify your brand’s impact. Odette shares her insights into the power of PR in building organic growth and credibility, highlighting how small businesses can get noticed without a huge budget. We dive into the importance of combining PR with even a modest paid ad spend to convert that hard-won attention into sales. Together, we discuss real-life case studies, showing how small business owners can use PR for visibility while using paid ads to nurture that initial interest into lasting customer relationships.
Odette breaks down how small businesses can start simply with retargeting strategies focused on converting site visitors. We talk about the value of creating a balanced strategy that capitalises on both organic reach and targeted ads for better return on investment. Whether you're a small business owner or just starting out in digital marketing, this conversation will give you actionable insights on how PR and paid ads can work hand-in-hand to drive real results. Tune in for an episode packed with tips, strategies, and the power of a collaborative marketing approach that will help you make the most of your budget and boost your brand’s visibility.
You can connect with Odette to learn more at https://www.odetteandco.com.au/
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, we’re tackling one of the most common mistakes businesses make with social media advertising: boosting posts directly from a phone. While it’s tempting to use the boost button for a quick result, this approach often ends up wasting valuable budget without achieving meaningful results.
I breakdown the recent Apple surcharge that’s set to cut into ad budgets even more and why this makes it all the more critical to optimise your ad spend and ensure every dollar is working hard for you.
Find out why it’s worth moving beyond the “boost” button to get more strategic with your ad spend. Plus, how to get confident with the Facebook Ads Manager platform for a more effective way to control targeting, audience selection, and ad placement.
If you’re ready to stop throwing money at quick fixes and start building ad campaigns with long-term impact, this episode is for you. Tune in and take the first step towards ads that actually pay off!
Tired of ads that fizzle out? Want campaigns that convert? Lou Koozlevcar a paid ads expert with a refreshing perspective, shares her ads know-how.
Lou goes beyond the click, revealing the hidden aspects of running successful ads. Learn why understanding your numbers, website optimisation, and even your client's organic strategy are crucial for maximising results. Discover the importance of crafting a compelling message that speaks to your ideal customer's transformation, not just your product.
This episode is packed with insights for businesses of all sizes looking to get the most out of their advertising efforts.
Links:
Lou's website
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, I dive into one of the most common questions business owners face: "How much budget do you need to succeed in paid ads?"
You’ll learn how your goals, as well as target audience size, competitive landscape, and the ad platforms you want to work on (Google, Meta, TikTok, LinkedIn) can impact your ad spend budget.
The episode is filled with practical tips for businesses with varying budgets, from testing with smaller budgets to scaling with larger ones for faster optimisation. Whether you're a small business just starting with ads or a brand looking to expand, this episode provides valuable insights into setting the right budget for success.
Brook shares her experience with using ads to promote her business training courses and discusses the challenges she faced in adapting her marketing strategies to the changing landscape of digital advertising.
We explore the importance of planning and testing advertising strategies to identify what works best for a specific business and audience. As well as the value of building relationships with potential customers through consistent engagement, even if they don't make a purchase immediately.
An insightful episode full of marketing gems!
You can connect with Brook to learn more at https://brookmccarthy.com/
Let's talk about the one Paid Ad strategy that every business needs. In today's over crowded digital landscape, running the right ad, that's cost effective can make all the difference, in standing out.
I've managed millions of dollars in ads over a decade and more, and I am sharing exactly what I've learnt and how you can apply this across Facebook, TikTok, Google or LinkedIn.
I'll also touch on how it's not just about the ads. You need to create great content that captures people's attention and encourages them to engage with your brand.
So, if you're ready to level up your digital marketing game, this episode is a must-listen. Just remember, it's not always about the flashy, sales-y ads. It's about building awareness, engaging your audience, and ultimately growing your business.
So, you're thinking about diving into the world of paid ads? Well, buckle up, because Kate Toon is here to spill the tea on all things digital marketing.
In this episode, she's dropping knowledge bombs on the pros and cons of ads, sharing her own experiences, and giving you the lowdown on how to make them work for your business.
Forget about those quick fixes and get ready for a reality check. Kate's not afraid to call it like she sees it, and she'll tell you straight up that ads aren't a magic wand. You've gotta put in the work, build a solid foundation, and understand your audience inside and out.
Kate's also sharing some insider tips on how to use ads effectively, from crafting compelling copy to targeting the right audience, and on the challenges you might face along the way.
So, if you're ready to level up your digital marketing game, this episode is a must-listen. Just remember, it's not just about the ads, it's about the whole package.
You can connect with Kate to learn more at https://katetoon.com
Let's take three guesses to nail why your ads aren't working.
In this episode, we dive deep into the most common reasons paid ads fail and what you can do to turn things around. Drawing from real conversations with hundreds of business owners, let's break down the top mistakes marketers make—from blindly boosting posts to missing crucial tracking tools. You’ll learn why boosting ads on platforms like Instagram might be hurting your results, the importance of proper targeting, and how to optimise your website for conversions. Plus, get actionable tips on crafting creative content that doesn’t feel like an ad but drives real engagement. If you’ve ever felt frustrated by ads that don’t perform, this episode is your guide to unlocking success.
Clare found her Facebook Ad made it all the way to Tinder! When I asked Clare Wood, money mentor, author, speaker and podcaster - “Do You Ads?” the answers were a wild ride!
In this episode, you’ll hear Clare’s experiences with Facebook ads, including the challenges faced and lessons learned. Clare shares her experiences with DIYing as well as outsourcing to Agencies – and how she created her own perfect approach to managing Facebook Ads.
We talk AI enhancements, winning lead generation formulas and what to do when your ads keep getting cancelled!
Listen along and hear how to navigate the complexities to drive ads success.
You can connect with Clare to learn more at https://clarewood.com/
In this episode of Ready, Set, Paid Ads, I explore the essential foundations for achieving success in paid advertising.
We’ll start by looking at the importance of having a well-defined strategy before spending any money on ads. From understanding your ideal client and setting clear objectives, such as brand awareness, sales, or lead generation. To planning ahead, considering seasonal and tactical factors, and adapting your ad campaigns to align with your business goals.
You’ll be introduced to the concept of a digital ecosystem and learn why having an optimised website, robust organic content plan, and a solid email marketing strategy all contribute to your paid ads efforts.
This episode provides a comprehensive guide to laying the groundwork for a successful ad strategy, ensuring your business is fully prepared to maximise the effectiveness of your paid advertising efforts.
Welcome to Ready, Set, Paid Ads.
This podcast will dive deep into the world of paid advertising, offering actionable insights, tips, and strategies to help you create successful ad campaigns.
Whether you’re new to paid ads or looking to refine your existing strategy, this is the perfect place to start.
Mary-Anne Amies website
Celebrating 100 Episodes of the Marketing with Confidence Podcast, I invited friends, team members and business besties to submit their burning questions about all things building a business, shaping a marketing career and more.
Throughout this episode I’ll answer questions and share my thoughts on:
- The importance of valuing your expertise and charging accordingly
- The power of personal relationships
- Advice to my younger self (and others) on how to develop a marketing career
- The importance of focusing on strategy over tactics
- The challenges and rewards of running a business
- The importance of personal development
As the last episode of the Marketing with Confidence Podcast, before an exciting new series launches, this is a great insight into what has shaped my career, and what fuels me to keep growing my digital marketing agency.
In this episode I dive into a comprehensive guide designed to help small business owners navigate the essential elements of digital marketing. The episode covers everything from setting SMART marketing goals to building an interconnected digital marketing ecosystem that includes your website, social media, email marketing, SEO, and paid ads.
We look at the importance of treating digital marketing as an ecosystem, where all elements—like your website, social media, and email marketing—work together to drive efficiency and results. Key points include the significance of having clear goals, understanding your target audience, creating a content marketing strategy, and planning your digital marketing activities in six-month increments to stay agile and responsive to market changes.
Additionally, the episode features a bonus "toolkit", highlighting essential tools for managing and enhancing your digital marketing efforts, providing you with practical recommendations to streamline your marketing processes.
This episode is perfect for small business owners looking to establish a solid digital marketing foundation or refine their existing strategies with actionable tips and insights.
In this episode of Marketing with Confidence we dive deep into the world of branding with Rowena Preddy, exploring the misconception that a logo is the sole defining factor of a strong brand identity. Join us as we uncover the true essence of branding and its impact on business growth. Discover how to create a brand that resonates with your target audience, builds trust, and drives customer loyalty. Learn practical tips on aligning your brand with your personal values, and how to develop a brand strategy that evolves with your business. This episode is packed with insights and actionable advice to help you build a brand that leaves a lasting impression.
You can connect with Rowena Preddy and learn more at https://preddycreative.com.au/
Tired of playing guessing games with your customers? It's time to ditch the crystal ball and embrace the power of first-party data to make your email marketing and paid advertising more effective! In this episode, I dive deep into what first-party data is, why it's become a total game-changer, and how you can use it to build a loyal army of fans. I share how to collect this golden data, and then show you how to turn it into marketing gold. Get ready to level up your marketing game and say goodbye to those pesky third-party cookies worries!
In this episode of Marketing with Confidence, we sit down with website design expert Charley Ulale to uncover the secrets to creating a website that not only looks great but also drives conversions.
Charley shares valuable insights on choosing the right platform for your business, the importance of branding consistency, and the art of crafting compelling calls to action. We also discuss the common pitfalls businesses face when building their websites and how to avoid them.
Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode provides actionable tips to help you create a website that truly connects with your audience and drives results.
You can connect with Charlee Ulale and learn more at https://ellajonesdesign.com.au/
Are you a small business owner hesitant to jump on the TikTok bandwagon? This episode is for you! Discover how TikTok can be a powerful tool for your business, regardless of your industry or age. Learn why TikTok is growing rapidly, even among older demographics, and how to create engaging content that resonates with your audience.
This episode offers practical tips and strategies to help you:
- Overcome the TikTok stigma and understand its potential for business growth.
- Develop a TikTok strategy tailored to your business and target market.
- Create compelling content that showcases your personality and brand.
- Utilise TikTok to build relationships and community with your audience.
Don't miss out on this opportunity to tap into the potential of TikTok for your small business.
Do you hate marketing? Feel like it's a confusing, pushy mess that never leads to sales? You're not alone. Many small business owners struggle with marketing, but it doesn't have to be that way.
In this episode, marketing expert Rachel Collard joins us to unveil the secret weapon for attracting your ideal clients: a clear marketing message. You'll discover:
- Why a lack of clarity is the root cause of marketing struggles.
- How to understand your ideal client's "before and after" picture.
- How a powerful message builds trust and attracts clients without chasing them.
- The difference between vanity metrics and the measurements that matter for sales.
- How to create valuable content that educates and attracts your dream clients.
Stop wasting time and money on ineffective marketing. Learn how to craft a message that resonates with your ideal client and watch your business grow!
You can connect with Racquel Collard and learn more at https://www.smbmarketing.com.au/
Feeling lost in the marketing jungle?
You're not alone. Small businesses today face a constant battle: how to stand out in a crowded online space with limited resources. In this episode, we'll cut through the noise and expose the 3 marketing tactics that are officially dead in 2024. We'll show you how to ditch those outdated strategies and focus your efforts on what actually works. Learn how to get more results for less hassle, target your ideal customer with laser precision, and finally stop wasting time on tactics that go nowhere. This episode is packed with actionable tips and insights to help you take your small business marketing to the next level. So, grab your headphones, fire up that laptop, and get ready to watch your marketing magic happen!
Ever feel like you're the only one keeping your business afloat? Imagine waking up to a smoothly running machine, even when you're not at the wheel. In this episode, I am joined by Cat Dunn discussing how to unleash the power of systems in your small business
Stop trading time for dollars! Learn how to:
- Free yourself from tedious tasks and focus on what matters most.
- Build a business that runs even when you're on vacation (or catching some Zzz's).
- Unleash the power of simple systems (no fancy software needed!).
- Scale with confidence knowing your systems can grow alongside your business.
This episode is your key to unlocking freedom and growth. Tune in and take control!
You can connect and learn more about Cat Dunn at https://www.instagram.com/catlouisedunn or https://catlouisedunn.com/
Feeling lost with your small business marketing budget? This episode is your roadmap to success!
Ever feel like your marketing budget is a black hole, swallowing money with no results? You're not alone. This episode equips you with the tools and strategies to craft a killer marketing budget that gets you the results you crave.
In this episode I unveil the secrets to building a strong budgeting foundation. We'll explore how to define your marketing goals, analyse your current situation, and choose the budget allocation method that perfectly fits your unique small business.
We'll also dive deep into prioritising the right marketing channels for your audience, from social media to content marketing, and estimate costs effectively. Plus, we'll unveil free and low-cost marketing tools to help you stretch your budget further.
But wait, there's more! We'll share essential tips for tracking your budget and measuring your results, so you can see what's working and what's not.
Ready to turn your marketing budget into a powerful weapon for growth? Tune in and discover how to strategically allocate your resources, adapt your budget for success, and finally achieve those marketing goals!
Investing in brand photography is a big step forward for a lot of small business owners, in this episode I talk to Leslie Carvitto on how to set up for the perfect shoot and how to leverage your photos to elevate your business to the next level.
Leslie has helped hundreds of women move past their fears, step in front of the camera, and share their story and offerings with powerful visuals. This is a great chat for anyone preparing for their first (or tenth!) shoot. Grab Leslie’s free guide - 15 Ways to Use Your Brand Photos https://www.instagram.com/p/C5M2X53Pm9C/ or learn more at https://www.lesliecarvitto.com/
Feeling the pinch but still want your marketing to shine? This episode of Marketing with Confidence dives into strategies for maintaining marketing success even with a limited budget. I unpack the importance of understanding your target audience and adapting your approach to their current needs. We then explore creative ways to leverage free and low-cost marketing tools. Listeners will gain insights into maximising the effectiveness of existing resources, along with alternative approaches to traditional marketing expenses. By the end of the episode, you'll be equipped with a fresh perspective on how to keep your brand visible and thrive during challenging times.
Whether you’re a brand taking your first leap into agency world, or a professional marketer frustrated with your current agency relationships, this chat with Joanne Lee is a great deep dive into what Makes Brand and Agency Relationships Stronger.
Joanne shares what she sees as the biggest mistakes in getting started together, and her top tips for keeping the relationship mutually beneficial for years to come! Learn how to avoid common pitfalls and unlock the potential for successful marketing campaigns. Tune in to discover how clear communication, defined expectations, and a touch of strategy can turn your next campaign into a win-win.
You can connect with Joanne on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannesllee or at https://www.jolleepartners.com.au
Discover how ChatGPT-4 can revolutionize your small business marketing in this episode as I talk directly to ChatGPT and uncover the practical applications of ChatGPT-4. From enhancing customer interactions and simplifying content creation to optimising social media strategies, and email campaigns. Learn to track and refine your marketing performance with AI-driven insights. Perfect for small business owners and entrepreneurs looking to streamline their marketing efforts and achieve greater success.
Welcome to another episode of Marketing with Confidence! This week, we're thrilled to have Jenny De Lacy, a seasoned consultant with over 30 years of experience, join us to discuss the power of confident content in marketing. With a rich background in learning and development, and a decade in digital marketing, Jenny shares her journey and insights on how to master the art of getting your message right.
In this episode, we dive into:
- Jenny’s unique career path and her passion for helping business owners craft effective messages.
- The similarities between learning and development and marketing, and how they both use words and messages to influence change.
- Practical tips for overcoming impostor syndrome in the marketing world.
- Strategies for simplifying your content creation process by focusing on what your audience needs right now.
- The importance of understanding your target market and aligning your content with their biggest challenges.
- Jenny's thoughts on avoiding content creation pitfalls and the noise of conflicting marketing advice.
Tune in to learn how to create impactful, confident content that resonates with your audience and helps you achieve your business goals. Don’t miss this insightful conversation that’s packed with actionable advice and expert insights!
Jenny De Lacy is a digital marketing consultant with over three decades of experience in consulting, including 20 years in learning and development and the last 10 years focusing on digital marketing. She is passionate about helping businesses find their voice and effectively communicate their messages to influence and drive change you can find her on Linkedin at https://LinkedIn.com/in/jennydelacy, Instagram at https://Instagram.com/jennydelacy.talkingdigital or at https://talkingdigital.com.au
Welcome back to Marketing with Confidence! In this episode, I dive into effective strategies for attracting new leads to your business. Explore both low-cost and paid approaches to lead generation, including leveraging social media, optimising your website, and using lead magnets like eBooks and webinars. Discover how to nurture leads through email marketing, ask for referrals, build partnerships, and engage in real-life networking. Join me for actionable insights to enhance your lead generation efforts and grow your business confidently. Tune in now!
How to price in service-based businesses is a mine field, especially for female owners. Asking the advice of others can be problematic, and undervaluing is a common outcome that ultimately impacts confidence and sustainability.
In this episode Anna Lamb talks about Value Based Pricing, discussing where we fall down in our approach to pricing and her top tips for pricing in an uplifting way.
This is a must listen for all service-based business owners! To learn more about Anna’s coaching you can find her on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/annalamb/ or head to the website https://www.upliftingvalue.com.au/
What do you do when your Instagram account is just not firing, or you've left it alone for a while and really want to drive engagement again?
In this episode I talk about the steps you can take to reactivate your account - whether its a large following or a small one, to drive your engagement back up and maximise your content on Instagram.
This a great episode to understand how to leverage the discipline of social media management to maximise your connection and conversion.
Nailing your marketing mindset, is the difference between a business that thrives and a business that nose dives. AJ is a Mindset and Messaging Coach who has helped hundreds of women to overcome their inner blocks, like self-doubt, procrastination and fear of failure, and to have the powerful self-belief and potent messaging to grow wildly successful businesses. In this episode we talk about the most common mindset blocks that female business owners have, why mindset is everything and AJ shares three quick ways to start to shift your mindset, to turn up and nail your marketing!
You can connect with AJ on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/aj.mindcoach or find out more at https://changeyourthoughts.com.au
In this episode I recap our recent Business Builders Breakfast, sharing my keynote on digital marketing strategies that can support your business during difficult times (the post covid and into a recession / cost of living crisis!). I run through the foundations of Strategy and then look at Retention Marketing (more on that in this episode https://maryanneamies.com/retention-as-a-marketing-strategy-episode-46 ) and Acquisition Marketing quick wins that you can leverage right now. I also dive into email marketing and how it can be used for both retention and acquisition... plus my one hot tip that you can implement straight away that 50% of SMEs aren’t taking advantage of.
Growing a sustainable business in the backdrop of the “6-figure overnight success” hype can feel overwhelming. In this episode of Marketing with Confidence, I catch up with Laetitia Andrac - an energetics and strategy business mentor and founder of Essential Shift Consulting.
We talk about the role of strategy in growing your business, and how when coupled with intuition business owners can create sustainable outcomes for people, profit and planet.
I loved this chat and the insights Laetitia shared. You can connect with her on Instagram @essential.shift or on LinkedIn, and learn more about her consulting programs and book “Light It - How to trust Your intuition and Build a Thriving Business” at https://www.essentialshift.co
Hype aside, AI can has a lot of value to add and as marketers and small business owners now is the time to start testing and evaluating which tools can complement our work processes and improve our outputs. In this episode I discuss time saving hacks that AI can bring to your digital marketing. Breaking down the exact tools we are using right now and the value they’re adding.
Danica is a Public Relations and Strategic Communications professional who in this episode takes us through the opportunity for Small Business owners to more effectively leverage PR. We talk about how marketing and PR can perfectly complement each other, and what a crisis management plan can look like and why its something small business owners need to consider.
You can find Danica on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/danica-bunch-3a6b2738, Instagram @danicabpr or head to the Danica B PR https://danicabpr.com/
Get ready for a Social Media 101! Starting right at the beginning, I breakdown why social media is so powerful for small business, how to select the right social channels and set them up properly. Then I’ll step through content creation strategies, how to engage and grow your accounts, as well as a top line look at analytics and social ads too.
This is perfect for anyone starting out or looking to really refresh their social media approach and start leveraging social media channels for business growth.
Melissa Pepers a futurist business designer, discusses one of the big missing pieces for CEOs in the marketing puzzle and shares how the practice of Business Design can ensure we ask the right questions to make decisions that will ultimately shape the success of our businesses.
This episode turned into a mini-masterclass as Melissa took us through TAM SAM SOM, helped even more by this Notion worksheet https://tinyurl.com/3ebje673
You can connect with Mellissa via Instagram https://www.instagram.com/reimaginers__ or LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissapepers, or join her Turning Points program to create limitless opportunities for yourself.
We can get so wrapped up in creating the media content for our social media, that the caption becomes the last minute addition. We know we are fighting against a short attention span, so in this bite size episode, I share over 10 tips to create better captions for your social media accounts.
If you have ever thought of launching your own podcast, this episode is for you! I catch up with Lyndal Harris Podcast Strategist and the brains behind the Podcast VA. We talk about what makes a great podcast, on how to get started and why podcasts are a great marketing strategy for leveraging your expertise.
You can connect with Lyndal on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndalharris/, Instagram https://www.instagram.com/podcastva/ or http://www.podcastva.com/
Email marketing is an opportunity to effectively market to an owned audience that you build. Creating loyalty and increasing your lifetime value of a customer. Email marketing is more than just a newsletter, and in this episode, I discuss how to use email marketing to attract, nurture and convert your target market. Whether you're a service based or ecommerce business, email marketing is a strategy you can leverage.
Loren Bousfield, founder of Gemini Creative Studio joins me in this episode to talk all things branding. We dive into Overcoming Branding Pitfalls, and Loren shares some of the most common mishaps and gives her top tips on how you can avoid them! Listen along and discover the biggest payoffs of getting a cohesive brand strategy for your business! You can connect with Loren at www.geminicreativestudio.com.au
We all know that social media is essential today for building a thriving business, but the process of social media management can feel daunting. Too often left to the last minute, social media becomes an afterthought and a missed opportunity. In this episode I break down the essential elements of social media, and share the secrets of creating strategic content at scale.
Jacqui Maloney is a public speaking and media coach who joins me in this episode to talk Showing up with Camera Confidence!
With a background in acting and voice-overs, Jacqui works on the performance side of public speaking and video creation to really bring you and your message to life. She works with professional women to build their confidence, stage presence and perfect their storytelling so that they own every stage or camera - meaning you can be less scripted and more authentically you!
You can connect with her on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacqui-maloney/ and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jacquimaloneycoaching/
Reflecting on building a business over 13 years as well as having worked within hundreds of businesses and seen their make and break, I share my thoughts on what I would focus on if i was building a business today.
Nicole Smith is a Chief Operations Officer (COO), Business Operations Specialist and Systems Designer, who founded The Artisans Business Solutions in 2020. In today’s episode Nicole breaks down the Fractional C-Suite and explains how small businesses can unlock the power of big business thinking, to implement systems and build a support network to create more potential, with less pressure on the founder.
If you’ve been looking to free yourself from your business and create harmony between your teams and the technology that can underpin your operations, this is a must listen!
You can find more about Nicole and The Artisans at http://theartisans.com.au/
Welcome to 2024! Grab these 4 Digital Marketing Trends for the new year, tailored to Small Business Owners. Full of practical actionable insights to kick you off for a strong 2024!
And just like that another year is wrapping up! If you're ready to say goodbye to the year my Review, Reflect, Rest & Regroup formula will ensure you capture learnings from this year, setting the foundations to create a successful one ahead. I discuss the essential data to review to see how your digital marketing performed, but also why it's important to look at more then just the data to assess performance. I then talk about the role of resting and regrouping before springing into action. A simple formula to help you wrap up your marketing and your year!
How do you know if you’re ready to outsource? In this episode I am joined by Leanne Woff, Founder at Audacious Empires and passionate OBM and OBM Coach. Leanne talks about the difference between an OBM and a VA, explains what effective outsourcing looks like and gives her tops tips for getting started.
You can connect with Leanne on at Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/leanne-woff and Audacious Empires on Instagram @audaciousempires or at https://audaciousempires.com
In a business world that’s all TikTok this and Instagram that, there is still opportunity to embrace so many other digital strategies. Today I am talking about 3 Underrated Digital Strategies that drive awareness and conversion, and are cost-effective for small business too!
In this episode I catch up with Ray Pastoors founder of ethical digital marketing firm LYF Solutions and my go-to for the recent GA4 changeover. As a huge analytics fan, this is a great chat where we talk all about the new GA4 platform, where business owners can get it wrong and most importantly, the hidden gems waiting for you to uncover and grow your business!
You can find out more at https://LYFsolutions.com.au or connect with Ray on LinkedIn or Instagram
How do you feel about strategy? In this episode I talk about the increase in conversation about strategy first approaches and why I am all for it. I break down the essential parts of strategy and why tactics aren't the best place to start, to build a successful business that converts.
Aimee Scott from Aim Up Digital talks all things Marketing Beyond Social Media. Aimee is a multi passionate professional, who has helped over 200 small businesses launch and grow online through her services in web design and marketing. In this episode we talk about why marketing strategy is an essential first step, but often overlooked for business owners. Plus, Aimee shares her top tips on marketing beyond social media!
Social Media is a wonderful tool for reaching your ideal client directly and aiding discovery of your product or service, however it is important not to forget your brand. In this episode I break down the elements that make up your brand and give my top tips for keeping them consistent across your social media marketing - including my hot tip for using Canva the right way!
Chris Schwager is the remarkable force behind Ridge Films, Sydney's leading DIY Video Production Agency, and is dedicated to empowering individuals and businesses to create high-quality videos.
In this episode of Marketing with Confidence we talk about the rise of video marketing and how to rethink it outside the social media marketing box, to become a powerful tool for connection and conversion.
Prepare to be enlightened and empowered as Chris shares his invaluable insights, propelling you towards video production greatness!
You can learn more about Chris and how Ridge Films can elevate your DIY Video Production at
http://www.ridgefilms.com.au/
The Christmas Countdown has officially started! In this episode I share a Christmas Countdown Checklist to get ready for a strong Christmas Marketing Campaign! I talk through the often overlooked target market at Christmas, as well as how to build your list and plan your promotions to ensure you start successfully marketing for Christmas from now right up to the 24th! I even share my thoughts on how to convert in the dreaded January lull!
With over 17 year’s experience as a designer, creative thinker, problem solver and visual communications strategist, Kylie Hannaford is the Founder and Creative Director of Three Blocks Left, a brand and design studio in Sydney. In this episode we talk about the evolution of branding and how small businesses can effectively execute their brands in a digital age.
Kylie shares her expertise on what has shifted in the last decade, and gives top tips for how business owners can take a brand strategy and make it shine on online.
You can connect with Kylie on Instagram @threeblocksleft or learn more at threeblocksleft.com.au
Are you a local business looking to grow? Or about to launch into a local area? This episode breaks down 7 tactics for nailing local marketing to attract and retain local clients and create a thriving business!
Jane Mow is a highly sought-after Personal Brand Stylist and Style Coach, passionate about inspiring female leaders to find their personal style. In this episode of Marketing with Confidence we talk about the power of curating your style, the impact it has on your business and how it can help you to show up with confidence to attract the career, business, and life of your dreams!
You can connect with Jane on Instagram @janemowstylist and learn more at janemow.com
In the world of digital marketing, reaching your target audience effectively can be a daunting task, especially for small business owners who are just starting out and may have limited budget. It might seem tempting to boost your posts on the Meta Platform to get your business noticed. However, before you hit that "Boost" button, it's crucial to understand why boosting ads on Meta might not be as effective as it seems. In this podcast, I explore some of the pitfalls small business owners should be aware of.
Charmaine Keegan is a Trainer, Keynote Speaker, Director and Founder of Smarter Selling – with a sales career spanning over 30 years. She has trained over 8000 Sales Leaders and professionals, empowering them with the confidence to embrace Leading and Selling with integrity. We have been working together for over a decade, and today she joins me on the Marketing with Confidence podcast to discuss what it means to sell with integrity and how business owners can help drive a high performing team.
You can connect with Charmaine on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/charmainekeegan or learn more about www.smarterselling.com.au
No longer the new kid on the block, TikTok has grown to 2 million users in Australia and although thats still just 20% of total Instagram users, you're likely to be being told to jump it on now! In this episode I share my thoughts on what sort of businesses may work best on TikTok, and what to consider before going "all-in" on a TikTok strategy right now.
Taryn Williams has been founding exceptionally successful businesses since she was 21, and today she joins me on Marketing with Confidence, to talk Successful Influencer Marketing strategies for business owners. Taryn shares how Influencer Marketing can be a cost effective strategy, some of the best in market examples she has seen and her top tips for business owners looking to collaborate with creators. Plus we learn about her new venture #Gifted and I even have a special code for a one month trial for listeners - just DM on Instagram or LinkedIn to grab it. You can find Taryn at tarynwilliams.com.au or check out hashgifted.com to get started!
To celebrate my 50th Podcast Episode of Marketing with Confidence, I asked my good friend and business bestie Bec Hughes to interview me. Bec put me in the hot seat with surprise questions! We chat about my purpose, how I lead my team, my business crushes and who I'd invite to the ultimate bucket list dinner party! I had a ball recording this and hope you enjoy getting to know me a little bit more!
I am joined in this episode by Susan Dean from Dean Publishing. Susan discusses her love for uncovering personal stories, and how we can rise above imposter syndrome to ensure our story gets out, for the benefit of others and our own business growth. This is a great episode for anyone who has ever considered writing a book... or who wants more confidence to share their story online! You can find and connect with Susan and Dean Publishing on Instagram, or learn more about how they help put your personal story to print at www.deanpublishing.com
Shopify, Wordpress, Wix, Squarespace.. and so many more! Navigating where to build your website, when to DIY and signs to call in the experts can be a minefield. In this episode I break down a jargon free look at where to build your website, based on 13 years of creating websites for clients.
In this episode I am joined by Hayley Maxwell personal brand and messaging coach, talking about intentional messaging. In an online world of infinite noise, Hayley shares how to be an influential thought leader especially if you are an introvert and how getting intentional with your messaging will attract your tribe and bring more conversions to your business. A must listen for introverts and the extroverts that market to them! You can connect with Hayley at hayleymaxwell.com or via LinkedIn and Instagram.
Your current customers are the key to growth in your business. In this episode I explore Retention as a key marketing strategy, and how you can get more from the customers you already have. When we think about the costs to recruit a new customer into our business it makes sense to maximise the value we can add and the ways in which we can solve their problems too.
In this episode Kerry Anne Nelson from Verve Operative, self-confessed addict for processes and systemising business, shares her story of turning around a failing family business amid a tragedy. Kerry Anne explores what sustainable growth is, and where business owners fall down striving for it. This episode is jam packed with great advice and a must listen!
To learn more about Kerry Anne and Verve Operative visit https://operationverve.com or connect to Kerry Anne on LinkedIn.
As we all ride the economic roller coaster together, slashing the marketing budget can be seem an easy win for reducing costs.
In this episode of Marketing with Confidence, I discuss if it's indeed time to slash the marketing budget for your brand, where to trim your digital marketing spend without impacting your position in the market or future growth and how to maximise the engaged customer you already have.
In this CEO Briefing I catch up with Content Marketing expert Sarah Spence from Content Copywriting. Sarah is a neurodivergent leader obsessed with adding real value to the people and brands she works with. She leads with quiet rebellion, refusing to do things the way they've always been done. Bringing together data-driven strategy with human-centred content, she leads her team to deliver quality results with trust, confidence and authenticity. You’ll love this deep dive into Content Marketing and why it’s at the epicentre of all your brands marketing priorities.
You can find Sarah on Instagram at @contentcopywriting or LinkedIn @sarah-spence-7413b930
Digital Marketing is an industry built on change and the need to adapt, so with the sudden race to embrace AI, us digital marketers are ready! In this episode I discuss 3 ways that you can dip your toe into AI powered tools to support your digital marketing activities.
Obsessed with helping women make more money, I am thrilled to talk to Angela Henderson in this episode, where we dive into building profitable businesses.
Angela talks about where women fall down, how to market in harder times and generously shares her 3S Framework and how it creates more profit without burnout!
Be sure to connect to Angela via www.angelahenderson.com.au
Personal branding as a strategic approach is on the rise, just take a look at where our social channels are heading, and you'll see why. People want to buy from, and connect with people. Personal brands are a way for small brands or brands with limited budgets to make a big impact. In this episode I talk about how to leverage your personal brand as a marketing strategy - and if personal branding just isn't possible, other ideas to make sure you increase the human connection.
In this episode, I caught up with Cherie Clonan, proudly autistic founder of powerhouse agency The Digital Picnic and all-round special human. The Digital Picnic teaches digital marketing ... and manages a full suite of digital marketing efforts for clients, too. Cherie has built a multi-million-dollar company with empathy-led leadership at the heart and soul of everything it does … and a company that has gone on to be described by all as "the nicest place on the internet". She says to that, "I’ll take that".
Listen along as we talk about why businesses need to nurture diversity and inclusion in the workplace, as Cherie shares insight into effectively leading with confidence and empathy.
To gain further insight into nurturing diversity and leading with empathy, connect with Cherie on LinkedIn and Instagram.
The mid year rolls around fast, and is the perfect time to take stock of both your marketing strategy and your marketing assets. In this episode I share tips on Mid Year Marketing Checks you can do right now!
Influencer Marketing has seen so many shifts in the last five years, and I am pleased to be joined by Social Media Strategist and Influencer expert Alex Mills, to talk all things Influencer and Content Creator opportunities.
Alex empowers brands to create inspirational online content via social media strategy, influencer marketing and video production, and in this episode he shares his formula for successful content creator partnerships that help small brands leverage new audiences!
You can connect to Alex on Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexthomasmills and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/alexmillssocial or follow him on TikTok for great insights and tips!
Building a Target Market is a critical foundation step in developing an effective marketing plan for your business. In this episode I explore the importance of understanding your target market, the benefits of having a clear target market profile and take you step by step through my formula in creating a target market profile.
I hope this episode inspires you to start carving out your ideal client profile, and if you’d like my free template – DM me on Instagram or LinkedIn!
It is such an honour to be joined in this episode by my much-loved Leadership Coach, Ami Summers from Craft Coaching and Development, to talk about Emotional Intelligence, diving into how to test for, build and use EQ as a leader of a team.
With 15 year’s experience as a leadership development consultant and as a Certified Coach (Mentor Coach), Ami is a specialist in supporting leaders of growing teams with entrepreneurial and creative backgrounds. She is accredited in a number of diagnostic tools including the MSCEIT, LSI/GSI, LTM (About Learning) and DiSC and holds several other related quals.
Her coaching practice Craft Coaching and Development brings impactful tools and methodology to both leaders and entrepreneurs – tools that would ordinarily be reserved for big corporations. For Ami, coaching is about making a positive impact on the world by equipping business leaders to think creatively and make better decisions for future generations. She firmly believes that having more creative entrepreneurs leading purpose-led businesses will craft a brighter future for us all.
Connect with Ami at www.craftcoachinganddevelopment.com www.linkedin/company/craft-coaching-and-development or on Instagram @craftcoachinganddevelopment
Marketing doesn't have to break the bank to be effective, in this episode I share my top Free and Low Cost Marketing Strategies that small business owners can implement straight away!
Today’s CEO Briefing is with one of my favourite humans Nikki Malvar, Branding Photographer and owner of Heist Creative, who I have to thank for all my Agency’s stunning brand photography!
Nikki is a most talented storyteller - a photographer who builds brands up through incredible imagery and a premium photography experience. Shooting with a marketing eye, capturing photos that are beautiful, high quality and strategic, to communicate an individual’s compelling story within their business.
In this episode she shares why CEO’s need to start harnessing photography in their business and her top tips for getting started.
You can find Nikki at www.instagram.com/heistcreative and https://www.heistcreative.com.au
This episode is for anyone wanting to understand the basics of paid digital ads. I will take you through the differences between search and social ads. Where you can DIY and when you need to call in the experts. And, what sort of investment you might need to get started.
In this episode we are joined by Bec Hughes Brand Strategist, Business Coach & Mentor for Brand-led Creatives, and one of my most loved business pals.
She obsesses over clever creativity, challenging the norms, and revealing unexpected outcomes. During her day job, she’s a wordsmith, one-woman creative business owner cheer squad, pixel perfectionist (graphic designer for the people at the back), storyteller, speaker, alliteration addict (can't you tell!?) and host of The C Word podcast.
On the podcast today she shares why CEO’s need to pay attention to their branding as part of their digital identity and generously tells us her Top Tips on how to use your brand to inform and strengthen digital strategy.
Sit back, you’re in for an informative episode full of great laughs.
You can connect to Bec on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bechughesbranding
On her website https://bechughes.com or by tuning into The C Word Podcast https://bechughes.com/podcast (you might even find me over there too!)
I am excited in this episode to talk about 2023’s hottest topic ChatGPT! A slightly different twist on the top trends or best hacks, I have a very exclusive interview with ChatGPT themselves! It’s a quickie but a goodie, with ChatGPT sharing exactly why you should use it in your business.
In today’s episode I am joined by Lauren Stokoe, a Director with IP Australia, talking about who needs to consider registering a trademark, how you can use the new tool TM Checker to do preliminary research on your business name (or even a logo someone develops for you) and what the process is for registering a trademark for your business.
IP Australia approached me as part of their educational efforts to better inform small business owners of the role that registering a trademark can play in their business – even when they are just starting out. I eagerly accepted, as over the years I have seen first-hand how business trademarks are so confusing and can feel like a big business decision. I hope this episode helps to simplify trademarking so you can confidently make the best decisions for your business.
For more resources you can visit https://ipaustralia.gov.au/ or start searching using https://tmchecker.ipaustralia.gov.au/start
This podcast is intended to provide general information regarding intellectual property and does not constitute legal or professional advice. It is not intended to take the place of legal or professional advice and should not be relied upon as such.
Which social media channel is superior? And how do you know which to pick for your business? In this episode I reflect on a conversation with a client who asked me to “pick one.”
This is a great breakdown of not just how to pick the social channels for your business, but also what different digital channels can achieve for your business. Looking at organic, paid, email and more.
In today’s podcast Anna Scott shares why CEOs need to increase their visibility and be the Visible Force in their Industry.
Anna is a Visibility Coach, empowering passion-led women to step into the limelight, own their personal brand and become a Visible Force in their industry.
Using over a decades worth of experience in PR & Branding, with some of Australia’s biggest homegrown brands, coupled her intimate knowledge of the small biz world, she supports her clients with the confidence and know-how they need to build their credibility, grow their audience and become in-demand in their industry, in a way which is down-to-earth, easy to follow, easy to implement and most importantly gets results.
If you are looking for a Coach to help to supercharge your visibility, reach new audiences and grow, you can connect with Anna on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-j-scott/ and Instagram @annascott.pr, or visit https://www.annascott.com.au/
No one wants to think about breaking-up, but when no one wants to think about breaking-up, but when things don't go right, or you've just outgrown it, you may find your current outsourced or in-house marketing support may be moving on.
In this episode I share 3 key things you need to do, to ensure today's break-up doesn't negatively impact your digital marketing plans for tomorrow! If things don't go right, or you've just outgrown it, your current outsourced or in-house marketing support may be moving on. In this episode I share 3 key things you need to do, to ensure today's break-up doesn't negatively impact your digital marketing plans for tomorrow!
Jason Andrew is a chartered accountant, founder, and business advisor to high-growth businesses. His accounting firm, SBO Financial, focuses on helping Ecommerce businesses with their numbers, ranging from bookkeeping and financial control to profit and cash flow maximisation strategies.
Jason is the author of entrepreneurial accounting book, "Stark Naked Numbers." People have called it the "barefoot investor for entrepreneurs" and ''the 4-hour work week of finance and business."
In this episode of the CEO Briefing series Jason shares the key reports and metrics that CEO’s often overlook, as well as demystifying common jargon.
You can find Jason on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-andrew/ and learn more about SBO Financial here https://www.linkedin.com/company/sbo-financial/
When it's time to let go of DIYing your Marketing you can hit a cross roads of how to effectively outsource or in-house to maximise all the digital marketing tools available. In this episode I explore different options of Digital Marketing management and how they may evolve as your business grows. From freelance social media managers, to students, to specialists and agencies.
Suz Chadwick is a BOLD Business & Mindset Coach and Speaker supporting entrepreneurs to go from business confusion to clarify, courage and CEOing at the next level.
The author of Play Big, Brand Bold, host of the popular Brand Builder's Lab podcast and the creator of Bold Business Academy (BBA) & the Amplify Accelerator, she works with savvy women in businesses to create courageously bold brands, get out of their own way & build profitable businesses that take you from Messy to Magnetic!
On this Podcast Episode, Suz and I talk about the role of evergreen content and how it can support CEO’s in ensuring discoverability that leads to conversion within their businesses.
You can find Suz Chadwick at https://suzchadwick.com/ and tune into the Brand Builders Lab podcast on your favourite podcast app, or by clicking here https://suzchadwick.com/podcast/
Digital Marketing can take up a lot of your time, and although everyone tells us to outsource, it's hard to feel confident that it's time. In this episode I share 3 signs to look for, that tell you you're ready!
From being a rock & roll agent to working with global corporations in harnessing their purpose and values to create meaningful commercial success, for Tony Bonney everything has had the one theme…why do we decide to listen to, work for, buy from and associate with the people and organisations we do? Everything boils down to this one philosophy…purpose enables people and organisations to be the best version of themselves. It results in people with meaningful personal lives creating connected teams that love their work, delivering amazing customer experiences and trust. It also results in people living their best lives.
In this episode Tony shares the benefits to CEO’s of identifying their best version, and their organisations best version. In doing so, creating meaning and connection for you and for all of those you serve.
You can find Tony Bonney on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-bonney-3095833/Or at Grow on Purpose https://purpose-led.lpages.co/
Being the CEO of your business means letting go of being on the tools, especially when it comes to digital, but it's so important you stay in control of the results - just as you stay across your business financials. In this episode I share The CEO Digital Checklist to get not just your foundations right for outsourcing but to ensure you get the right reports to assess ongoing performance too.
Welcome to the CEO Briefing series, in this series I will be talking to industry experts, who will share their advice on what CEOs need to know to run a thriving business. In today's episode I talk to Karen Hollenbach, one of Australia’s leading Independent LinkedIn Specialist Trainers and the Founding Director of Think Bespoke. With over 12 years of LinkedIn training, strategy and LinkedIn profile writing experience in Australia, Karen has helped 1000s of professionals and 100s of organisations. Karen offers a unique perspective to help individuals and organisations use LinkedIn better to achieve their professional goals. Karenworks closely with organisations in management consulting, legal, finance, recruitment, education, healthcare and technology sectors. She also partners regularly with industry peak bodies, professional associations and local councils and has co-facilitated the LinkedIn workshop for Monash Business School since 2020, trained the RMIT University careers team and delivered tailored LinkedIn training for University of Melbourne, Grattan Institute and State Library Victoria.
A practical approacj to kicking off your Digital Marketing in 2023, with a step by step guide of what you need in place to optimise for success.
If you'd like a copy of my Monthly Analytics Template head to https://maryanneamies.com/monthly-check-in-template/
The Digital Confidence Series has been a wonderful insight into 7 personal journeys with digital marketing. In this episode I reflect on the interviews and wrap up my favourite take aways.
Just like starting the diet on Monday, annual goal setting can be a trap of the best intentions turned into yesterdays news. In this episode I give 3 things you can do instead of setting new year goals for your business.
Anita Vitanova, Meta Certified Community Manager and founder of the Inner West Mums Facebook Community and Business Directory, shares her story of growing her business amongst the ever changing digital marketing landscape
When we plan our digital marketing activity we often focus on social media and paid ads. In this episode I share what I see as the most overlooked, yet effective digital marketing strategy.
Dr Marion Piper shares her journey in balancing creativity with consistency and making digital marketing meaningful.
How to identify when your marketing strategy is no longer working, and 4 places to look to measure, adapt and grow.
Links:
Mary-Anne Amies website
Claudia Domancie founder of Body Design Pilates and The Empowered Instructor talks about how collaborating on digital has increased her confidence.
In this episode I answer the number one question, and dive into which Social Media Channel you should use for your business or brand
Links:
Mary-Anne Amies website
Fellow content mentor Mel Daniels from the Content Effect chats about mastering digital confidence and finding the courage to show up.
Links:
Mary-Anne Amies website
The importance of getting your digital marketing advice from experts and how to avoid the BBQ Effect throwing you out.
Links:
Mary-Anne Amies website
Khemany Ouk, Head of Marketing at Total Image Group shares her journey as a career marketer finding her digital confidence.
Links:
Total Image Group website
Mary-Anne Amies website
There is a Tipping Point in business where your available time is maxed out, but there are clients ready to work with you. In this episode I explore three paths to take, when you reach The Tipping Point.
Links:
Mary-Anne Amies website
Bec Hughes creative for creatives joins me to chat about digital marketing and her journey to finding confidence.
Links:
Bec Hughes website
Mary-Anne Amies website
After 12 years in business I share the mistakes I made along the way, and give insight on the lessons I learnt so you can build a business that thrives.
Links:
Mary-Anne Amies website
I'm joined by Kerry Athanasiou from Style Culture and we discuss her journey into finding digital confidence within her business.
Links:
Style Culture website
Mary-Anne Amies website
How to get comfortable with becoming the key marketing asset in your business.
Links:
Mary-Anne Amies website
In this first episode I share my story of how I fell head over heels for marketing and life as Director of a digital marketing agency.
Links:
Mary-Anne Amies website