In this episode of E-Coffee with Experts, Ryan Ricketts, Search Engine Optimization Consultant at Slicketts Digital, joins us for a real, no-fluff conversation about the biggest marketing struggles small business owners face today.

With 14+ years in the industry and a background in improv comedy, Ryan brings a unique mix of humor and hard-earned insight as he talks about everything from setting realistic expectations and managing tight budgets to how AI is reshaping modern agencies.

He shares why honest communication (even when the data’s not great) builds stronger client relationships, and how telling the right story with your numbers can make all the difference. You’ll also hear smart analogies, like why SEO is more like going to the gym than getting plastic surgery, that simplify complex decisions like choosing between SEO and PPC.

Whether you're a marketer, agency leader, or small business owner, this episode is packed with relatable stories, practical advice, and proven strategies that actually work.

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In this episode, we discuss:

00:00 - 01:00: Introduction

01:10 - 02:40: What Ryan Does at Slickits Digital

02:40 - 04:00: Why Small Businesses Struggle With Marketing

04:00 - 06:10: The Real Cost of SEO and Setting Expectations

06:10 - 08:00: How Ryan Talks to New Clients Honestly

08:00 - 10:30: Lean Agencies & The Power of AI

10:30 - 11:30: Why Being a Good Communicator Matters

11:30 - 12:40: Speaking at Brighton SEO: A Dream Come True

12:40 - 14:30: How to Tell the Truth With Bad Data

14:30 - 17:00: Handling Tough Conversations With Clients

17:00 - 18:30: Why Consistency Pays Off in Marketing

18:30 - 20:00: How to Tell Stories With Data

20:00 - 21:30: SEO vs PPC: The Plastic Surgery Analogy

21:30 - 23:00: Explaining SEO Without Confusing Jargon

23:00 - 25:00: Client Case Study: Ranking High With Jogging Content

25:00 - 27:00: Why Long-Tail Keywords Convert Better

27:00 - 28:10: The Problem With Vanity Metrics in SEO

28:10 - 29:10: What Ryan Is Focusing On This Year

29:10 - 30:20: Why SEO Basics Still Matter Most

30:20 - 31:44: Where to Find Ryan + Final Thoughts

 Connect with Ryan Ricketts

 https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickettsryan/

 https://www.linkedin.com/company/slicketts-digital/

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