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The Do Good Business Podcast
Ashley Dreager
18 episodes
6 days ago
I'm Ashley Dreager, and I'm here to talk about building profitable, ethical businesses. There are solid strategies that actually work, and then there's misleading garbage put out just to make a sale. I call out the difference. We have real conversations that go deep. I break down what's working for those building businesses the right way, and call out the ridiculousness flooding your feeds. Straightforward advice, real stories, honest conversations about what works and what's BS.
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Marketing
Business
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All content for The Do Good Business Podcast is the property of Ashley Dreager and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
I'm Ashley Dreager, and I'm here to talk about building profitable, ethical businesses. There are solid strategies that actually work, and then there's misleading garbage put out just to make a sale. I call out the difference. We have real conversations that go deep. I break down what's working for those building businesses the right way, and call out the ridiculousness flooding your feeds. Straightforward advice, real stories, honest conversations about what works and what's BS.
Show more...
Marketing
Business
Episodes (18/18)
The Do Good Business Podcast
1.17 Building Your Marketing Strategy from Point A to Point B

In this episode, I dive deep into what a marketing strategy actually is and how to build one that works for your business. I'm breaking down the roadmap that takes you from where you are now (Point A) to where you want to be (Point B), and why having this documented is crucial for consistency and team communication. This isn't about creating a document to collect digital dust – it's about building a strategic foundation that saves you time, money, and energy while keeping everything intentional.


Key Takeaways:

  • Your marketing strategy is your roadmap that bridges the gap between where you are now and where you want to be, requiring a clear audit of your current state and defined vision for your goals
  • Strategy prevents reactive marketing by giving you clear boundaries, intentional activities, and the ability to troubleshoot when something isn't working instead of just throwing tactics at the wall
  • There's a difference between ideal and realistic strategy – it's okay to build your dream marketing plan in phases based on your current budget and capacity constraints
  • Content strategy is how you talk within your marketing channels – your marketing strategy defines what you're doing, while content strategy determines how you're positioning and messaging within those channels
  • Documentation is essential for consistency and delegation – keeping strategy in your head makes it nearly impossible to stay consistent or effectively communicate with team members


Timestamps:

[00:40] - Introduction to building detailed marketing strategy

[01:20] - What a marketing strategy actually is and why it matters

[02:20] - Understanding Point A (current state) and Point B (goals) in your strategy

[03:10] - Breaking down the components: goals, vision, marketing channels, and tactics

[04:20] - The difference between marketing channels and marketing tactics

[04:30] - Content strategy: messaging, positioning, and content pillars

[05:00] - Action plans: one-off projects vs. ongoing optimization

[05:40] - Why documented strategy prevents inconsistency and team confusion

[06:20] - Setting clear boundaries and staying motivated with intentional marketing

[07:30] - How strategy helps you troubleshoot and problem-solve marketing issues

[08:40] - Why intentionality saves time, money, and energy in marketing

[09:20] - Starting with goals: how business objectives drive marketing decisions

[10:10] - Competitor analysis: finding gaps and differentiation opportunities

[11:50] - Connecting offers and services to sales funnel development

[12:30] - Balancing marketing channels with budget and time capacity

[13:10] - Building ideal vs. realistic marketing strategy in phases

[14:10] - Content strategy: pillars, categories, and target market relevance

[15:30] - Scheduling and repurposing content across channels

[16:50] - Free strategy workbook and course resources


Referenced Links:

  • ⁠⁠Free Strategy Plan Workbook⁠⁠ - High-level marketing strategy creation guide that's perfect for DIYing!

  • ⁠⁠Marketing for Success- The Course⁠⁠ - (PROMO CODE: PODCAST) $357 self-paced marketing course with ongoing Slack community support (best for service-based businesses, adaptable for e-commerce)

  • ⁠⁠Work With Me⁠⁠ - One-off strategy calls and ongoing consulting options

------------------------------------

Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ashleydreager.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

  • ⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠

Show more...
1 month ago
18 minutes 25 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.16 Guest Interview: Andrea Yenawine with Franchise Harmoney

I had no idea franchise brokers existed before meeting Andrea, and honestly, this conversation completely changed how I think about franchising. We dove deep into the reality of franchise ownership beyond the McDonald's model most people picture. Andrea specializes in low investment, high return franchises - particularly home-based options that can get you profitable much faster than traditional retail locations. She breaks down funding options I'd never heard of (hello, ROBS!), explains why most franchises have a 90% success rate versus 50% for independent businesses, and reveals how some franchisors literally set up your marketing for you. If you've ever been curious about franchising or are tired of the traditional employment grind, this episode will open your eyes to possibilities you probably didn't know existed.

Key Takeaways:

  • Home-based franchises offer lower barriers to entry - You can get into many franchises for $50,000-$120,000 versus $350,000+ for retail locations, and you avoid the overhead costs of brick-and-mortar operations.
  • ROBS (Rollover Business Startup) lets you use 401k funds penalty-free - If you have a 401k from a previous employer, you can invest that money in your own franchise without IRS penalties through a legitimate company structure.
  • Franchise success rates blow independent businesses out of the water - About 90% of franchises are still operating after five years compared to only 50% of businesses started from scratch.
  • Not all franchises require industry experience - Many franchisors prefer certain personality traits over specific backgrounds and provide extensive training. Some even offer business coaching throughout your ownership.
  • Marketing systems are already proven and tested - Instead of spending 6-12+ months figuring out messaging and target markets, you get plug-and-play marketing strategies that have worked for hundreds of other locations.

Timestamps:

[00:04:30] - Andrea explains her focus on low investment, high return franchises and why she avoids the McDonald's model that takes 5+ years to see ROI

[00:06:20] - The real costs behind retail franchises - why brick-and-mortar locations require $350,000+ investments due to leases, build-outs, and construction

[00:08:20] - Funding options for franchises, including traditional SBA loans and creative approaches most people don't know about

[00:09:40] - Deep dive into ROBS (Rollover Business Startup) - how to use 401k funds penalty-free to start your franchise

[00:12:40] - Why working with a franchise broker benefits everyone and doesn't cost the buyer anything

[00:16:10] - What makes franchise relationships go sideways and red flags to watch for in franchise ownership changes

[00:21:40] - Home-based franchise models explained - from mobile pet grooming to digital marketing services

[00:24:30] - How to scale home-based franchises by starting with one territory and expanding

[00:31:00] - Why franchises have built-in marketing advantages and proven systems that eliminate the typical startup struggle

[00:38:30] - Ongoing franchise fees breakdown - initial franchise fees, monthly royalties, and advertising costs

[00:44:00] - Training and support systems that help people without business experience succeed in franchising

[00:53:40] - Semi-passive ownership options and how to start a franchise while keeping your day job

Referenced Links:

  • Franchise Harmoney website
  • Andrea's email: andrea@franchiseHarmoney.com
  • Phone: (510) 928-2641

---------------------------------------

Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠

 

Get in touch: ⁠

FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
1 month ago
56 minutes 28 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.15 Guest Episode: Azka Mistry with Little Panda's Play Cafe

In this episode, I sit down with Azka Mistry, owner of Little Panda's Play Cafe in Everett, Washington, for an incredibly honest conversation about building a physical business while navigating motherhood. Azka doesn't hold back as she shares her journey from Amazon program manager to cafe owner, the daily reality of running a business that requires you to show up no matter what, and how she's learned to balance being a working mom on her own terms. We dive deep into creating strong workplace culture, the anxiety that comes with physical business ownership, and why customer obsession has been key to her success.

Key Takeaways:

  • Physical businesses require different sacrifices - Unlike online businesses, you can't just work from anywhere when childcare falls through. Azka wakes up two hours before opening every day, anxious about potential staffing issues, because the doors must open no matter what.
  • "On your own terms" doesn't mean easy - Leaving corporate for flexibility doesn't automatically give you more time with your kids. It gives you control over your schedule, but often means working twice as hard while learning to navigate childcare guilt and boundary-setting.
  • Customer obsession drives real results - Azka's team maintains consistent excellence because she's instilled a culture where customer experience is non-negotiable. This Amazon-learned principle directly translates to increased sales and customer loyalty.
  • Your backup needs a backup - Running a physical location means having more team members than you technically need on any given day, because someone will always call out and you cannot close your doors.
  • Marketing moves the needle immediately - Azka has tested the direct correlation between social media posting and foot traffic. When they don't post, they see a measurable drop in sales, even without direct links or online shopping.

Timestamps:

[00:02:30] - Azka introduces herself and explains her passion for creating community spaces for parents without nearby family support

[00:05:30] - The origin story: how having her first child in 2021 sparked the idea for Little Panda's Play Cafe

[00:07:00] - The pivotal moment of leaving Amazon and committing fully to opening the cafe

[00:11:00] - Real talk about working mom expectations vs. reality and why dedicated childcare time is necessary

[00:15:20] - The daily anxiety of physical business ownership and always having backup plans

[00:18:30] - How she maintains boundaries (or struggles to) and the importance of self-care for business performance

[00:23:00] - The moment her 3-year-old asked her to get off her phone and the wake-up call it provided

[00:28:30] - Behind the scenes of planning consistent events and creating more than "just a coffee shop"

[00:31:40] - Building an all-female team culture and why treating employees like family matters

[00:36:00] - Creating workplace culture where team members feel comfortable being open about personal challenges

[00:43:50] - The direct impact of social media marketing on physical business sales

[00:50:00] - Addressing the fear of competitors copying her business model

[00:53:40] - All the business ventures she tried before landing on the play cafe concept

Referenced Links:

  • Little Panda's Play Cafe Instagram: @littlepandasplaycafe
  • Azka's Personal Instagram: @azkaay
  • Little Panda's Play Cafe Website

-------------------------------------------

Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠


Get in touch:

FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook

⁠Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
1 month ago
1 hour 35 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.14 Why Consulting May be The Best Option For Small Businesses

In this episode, I wrap up my miniseries on marketing options by diving deep into why consulting might be the perfect middle ground for your business. I'm breaking down how consulting sits between DIYing your marketing and hiring a full agency, especially as we see more businesses cutting marketing budgets in 2025. This isn't about choosing the cheapest option – it's about finding the strategic sweet spot that actually works for your capacity and goals.


Key Takeaways:

  • Consulting bridges the gap between doing everything yourself and hiring a full agency, giving you strategic support without the hefty price tag of complete marketing management
  • You still need strategy even with budget cuts – AI and other tools can help with execution, but without strategic direction, you're just wasting time and money in different ways
  • 90 days minimum commitment is essential for any marketing approach to show real results, especially with organic marketing strategies
  • Different marketing roles serve different purposes – from social media managers to email specialists to marketing assistants, each has a specific place in your overall strategy
  • Time capacity reality check is crucial – if your marketing needs 10+ hours per week, you're past the consulting stage and need team members or full management


Timestamps:

[00:00:40] - Introduction to the final episode in the marketing miniseries

[01:20] - Why consulting is the sweet spot between DIY and full agency management

[02:10] - How AI and budget cuts are changing the marketing landscape in 2025

[03:20] - What consulting actually looks like and how it works

[04:30] - The difference between proactive and reactive marketing approaches

[05:40] - Monthly strategy sessions and implementation focus

[08:20] - Time commitments and capacity requirements for consulting success

[10:10] - Setting realistic 90-day minimum expectations for results

[12:00] - Breaking down specialty marketing roles: social media, email, copywriting

[16:30] - Understanding ads managers and SEO specialists

[17:40] - Marketing assistant role as a catchall position

[19:20] - Time commitment guidelines: 1-2 hours vs 10+ hours per week

[21:10] - Why everyone needs a marketing strategy regardless of business stage

[22:40] - Resources: strategy workbook and marketing course options


Referenced Links:

  • ⁠Free Strategy Plan Workbook⁠ - High-level marketing strategy creation guide that's perfect for DIYing!
  • ⁠Marketing for Success- The Course⁠ - (PROMO CODE: PODCAST) $357 self-paced marketing course with ongoing Slack community support (best for service-based businesses, adaptable for e-commerce)
  • ⁠Work With Me⁠ - One-off strategy calls and ongoing consulting options


------------------------------------

Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠⁠⁠⁠ashleydreager.com⁠⁠⁠⁠
  • ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠

 

Get in touch: ⁠⁠⁠

⁠FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠⁠this form⁠⁠ and I'll reach out!


Show more...
1 month ago
24 minutes 26 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.13: To DIY or Not DIY Your Marketing

This is the second episode in my three-part marketing foundations mini series, and I'm diving into one of the biggest questions I get from small business owners: should you DIY your marketing or hire someone else to do it?


I've heard it all - people who love doing their own marketing, people desperately trying to get away from it, and everyone in between. Whether you want to keep marketing on your plate or offload it completely, this episode is going to give you realistic expectations about budget, time, capacity, and what's actually going to be expected of you with each option.

Key Takeaways:

  • You have three main options - DIY (do it yourself), DWY (done with you), or DFY (done for you), and each serves different business stages and budgets
  • Time vs. money trade-off - when you spend more time, it costs less money; when you spend more money, it takes less of your time
  • Strategy is non-negotiable - whether you're DIYing or hiring, you absolutely need a marketing strategy first, or you're just throwing everything against the wall hoping it sticks
  • Consistency is everything - you need to commit to at least 90 days of whatever approach you choose to see tangible results, and ideally plan for 6-12 months
  • Done with you is the sweet spot - consulting and mentorship bridge the gap between budget constraints and strategic marketing, especially in today's economy where marketing budgets are getting cut


Timestamps:

00:40 - Introduction to part two of the marketing foundations series

03:10 - Quick recap: everyone needs marketing and strategy

04:00 - The three options: DIY, Done With You (DWY), Done For You (DFY)

05:00 - Benefits of DIY marketing: cost-effective, full control, you're the subject matter expert

06:20 - Downsides of DIY: time-intensive, large learning curve across multiple specialties

07:10 - When DIY is best: small budgets, early-stage businesses, tight startup budgets

08:20 - Done For You options: hiring agencies vs. building your own team

09:00 - Agency pros: convenience, no hiring process, access to specialists for one-off projects

10:40 - Building your own team: more control, lower cost, but requires management

12:20 - Who Done For You is best for: larger budgets, established businesses, complex marketing needs

13:20 - Done With You: the middle ground for strategy support while maintaining implementation control

14:30 - Why consulting is a sweet spot: fresh perspective, feedback, and strategic guidance

16:30 - The time vs. money scale and sustainability considerations

17:30 - 90-day minimum commitment and why you need long-term vision

Referenced Links:

  • Free Strategy Plan Workbook - High-level marketing strategy creation guide that's perfect for DIYing!
  • Marketing for Success- The Course - (PROMO CODE: PODCAST) $357 self-paced marketing course with ongoing Slack community support (best for service-based businesses, adaptable for e-commerce)
  • Work With Me - One-off strategy calls and ongoing consulting options


------------------------------------

Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠

 

Get in touch: ⁠

FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
2 months ago
21 minutes 52 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.12 Who Needs Marketing

In this episode, I'm kicking off the first of a three-part mini series diving deep into the foundational pieces of marketing that every small business owner needs to understand. I'm breaking down what marketing is, who needs it, and why so many businesses are struggling or even closing their doors.

We're getting into the nitty gritty details because I'm seeing way too much misinformation out there, and it's honestly breaking my heart when businesses fail because they don't understand these fundamentals.

Key Takeaways:

  • Everyone needs marketing - regardless of whether you're B2B, B2C, online, in-person, service-based, or e-commerce, marketing is essential for business
  • You must have an online presence - this doesn't mean posting on social media 2-3 times daily, but you need a consistent digital presence where people can find and engage with you
  • Strategy comes before implementation - you need both a marketing strategy (your roadmap) and implementation, but strategy must come first or you're just throwing everything against the wall hoping it sticks (sorry, I know people hate this phrase but it's true!)
  • Marketing is more than just social media - while social media is important, marketing includes email marketing, SEO, content marketing, paid advertising, print marketing, and influencer marketing
  • These are specialty roles - social media management, ads management, SEO, and other marketing channels each require specific expertise, and ideally should be handled by different specialists


Timestamps:

03:20 - Why everybody needs marketing and how it differs by business type

04:00 - The importance of having an online presence (not overwhelming social media posting)

05:00 - Everyone needs a marketing strategy - your roadmap from point A to point B

05:40 - What to do when you're creating content but don't know what you're doing

07:00 - Why strategy keeps everything intentional and on track

08:20 - The problem with following random marketing advice without understanding the theory

11:40 - Marketing is more than just social media - breaking down different marketing channels

13:00 - Understanding marketing roles: strategy vs. implementation specialists

15:20 - Recap and action steps for getting started


Referenced Links:

  • Free Strategy Workbook - High-level overview and direction for creating your own marketing strategy
  • Done With You or Done For You Support - One-time strategy calls, consulting, and management services for done-with-you and done-for-you support


-------------------------------

Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠


Get in touch: ⁠

FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
2 months ago
17 minutes 23 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.11 Guest Interview: Dagi Kesim, Founder of Gala FC Soccer Club and IDT Soccer

In this episode, I sit down with Dagi Kesim, founder of Gala FC Soccer Club and IDT Soccer, to dive into what it really means to build character through sports. We talk about his journey from professional soccer player to coach, his mission to help low-income kids access soccer opportunities, and why he believes we're doing our kids a disservice by protecting them from failure. This conversation goes way beyond soccer. We explore parenting, business ownership, the importance of criticism, and how sports can be a training ground for life. Dagi doesn't hold back on his opinions about participation trophies and helicopter parenting!

Key Takeaways:

• You learn nothing from winning, everything from losing - Success doesn't teach you where your weaknesses are or how to improve, but failure forces you to examine what went wrong and grow from it• The "everyone's a winner" mentality is creating fragile adults - Kids who aren't exposed to criticism, disappointment, and having to earn their success struggle when they hit real-world challenges• Supporting your kids means showing up, not making excuses - True support isn't about convenience or protecting them from every difficulty, but being present and teaching accountability• Sports are life school in disguise - The lessons learned about teamwork, resilience, handling criticism, and pushing through discomfort translate directly to success in careers and relationships• Growth mindset requires accepting you're not as good as you could be - Whether in sports, business, or life, continuous improvement means being honest about your current limitations while believing in your potential

Timestamps:

[00:04:40] - From professional soccer injury to coaching in America, starting with private lessons and working his way up through high school, college, and semi-pro levels

[00:07:00] - Creating opportunities for low-income kids regardless of background, with close to 200 kids receiving college scholarships through soccer

[00:11:00] - How being told "you don't have what it takes" by his professional soccer player father drove Dagi to prove him wrong

[00:18:10] - Why American soccer has different expectations than American football, and why Dagi believes in demanding excellence from players

[00:21:00] - How "everyone's a winner" mentality fails to prepare kids for real-world challenges and criticism

[00:28:00] - The core philosophy that losing and failure are where real growth happens

[00:35:00] - How players who get comfortable with mediocre performance stop improving

[00:43:00] - Parents who won't drive kids to games unless they're guaranteed playing time, and how this teaches the wrong lessons

[00:46:00] - Why merit-based decisions prepare kids for workplace realities

[00:59:00] - The operational challenges of running a soccer club while maintaining standards

[01:16:00] - How parents prioritizing convenience over commitment puts their children at a disadvantage

[01:24:00] - Observations about how girls tend to be more coachable and focused during development years

Referenced Links:

Galafc.com

Gala FC Facebook

Gala FC Instagram

------------------------------

Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠


Get in touch: ⁠

FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!



Show more...
2 months ago
1 hour 35 minutes 36 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.10 Guest Interview: Brett Affleck-Aring with Insperity

In this episode, I sit down with Brett Affleck-Aring from Insperity to talk about the world of outsourced HR and what it really means to take care of your employees. We get into the nitty-gritty of why small businesses are drowning in C.R.A.P. (Compliance, Risk, Administrative burden, and Payroll) and how that's pulling business owners away from what they actually got into business to do. Brett breaks down how PEOs work, why benefits matter more than ever, and shares his philosophy on building businesses that genuinely care about people - not just profit margins.

Key Takeaways:

• The C.R.A.P. Problem is Real: Every business owner deals with Compliance, Risk, Administrative burden, and Payroll daily - and it's pulling them away from their core business focus

• Benefits Give You a Competitive Edge: Small businesses lose good employees to big corporations because they can't compete on benefits, but outsourced HR can level that playing field

• Culture Happens Either Way: Company culture will develop whether you sculpt it intentionally or just let it happen - and the intentional approach always wins

• The "Get Better Mentality": The best clients are those who genuinely want to improve how they treat their employees, not just cut costs

• Employee Retention Is Everything: It costs an employee's annual salary to hire, train, and get someone up and running effectively - making retention crucial for profitability

Timestamps:

[00:02:30] - Brett explains what Insperity does and introduces the C.R.A.P. acronym

[00:06:10] - Discussion on health benefits negotiation power and cost savings

[00:09:20] - The 1099 vs W2 employee compliance issue and how businesses try to avoid HR responsibilities

[00:13:10] - Cost comparison: Full-time HR person vs outsourced HR services

[00:17:30] - What Brett looks for in clients: the "get better mentality"

[00:19:10] - Costco as an example of treating employees well while being profitable

[00:32:40] - Brett's philosophy on only selling what you believe in

[00:36:10] - How health benefits reveal a company's "get better mentality"

[00:38:10] - Example of working with nonprofits and creative benefit solutions

[00:42:50] - Brett's elevator pitch workshop advice and public speaking tips

Referenced Links:

• Insperity

• Brett's LinkedIn

------------------

Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠

 

Get in touch: 

⁠FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
2 months ago
48 minutes 42 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.9 Guest Interview: Silver Hernandez with Angel's Cleaning Service

In this episode, I sit down with Silver, owner of Angel's Cleaning Service, to explore how a business born out of necessity transformed into a company focused on doing good for employees, clients, and the community. Silver shares the unfiltered journey of inheriting a family business, scaling from a mother-daughter team to managing employees, and learning the hard business lessons that nobody warns you about.

Key Takeaways:

Legacy isn't just inherited - it has to be earned. Silver turned her family's survival-mode cleaning business into a values-driven company that prioritizes employee wellbeing and natural cleaning methods. What started as necessity became intentional.

Hiring for core values transforms everything. After struggling with traditional hiring approaches, Silver learned about hiring based on core values - being real, being positive, doing what's right - rather than just skills. This shift dramatically improved employee retention and service quality.

Systems and training become essential when scaling. What seems like "common sense" to an expert isn't obvious to new employees. Silver invested in building a full training program with modules, quizzes, and gradual pay increases tied to completion.

The business side hits different than the service side. Learning legalities, taxes, insurance, and compliance became Silver's biggest challenge when scaling. These are skills that aren't taught when you grow up "just knowing how to clean."

Natural cleaning products are trending, but also necessary. After experiencing sensitivity during pregnancies and hearing employee complaints from other companies, Silver committed to using natural products like Mrs. Meyer's for both health and building trust with clients.

Timestamps:

[00:03:00] The origin story: How Silver's mom started cleaning after getting fired from multiple jobs as a single parent

[00:04:00] Grandma Lois's influence: The family cleaning legacy that started it all ("you could eat off of Lois's floors")

[00:06:30] Growing up in the business: Silver as a little kid with her coloring book in office building lobbies

[00:15:00] How health issues forced the business to "fall into Silver's lap" 10 years ago

[00:21:00] Silver's philosophy on serving others and giving people their time back

[00:23:30] The difference between "get in, get out quick" cleaners and quality service providers

[00:27:00] Finding a hiring coach who taught core values-based hiring

[00:30:30] From grandma's harsh chemicals to natural products for health and safety

[00:40:00] Three-month academy with modules, quizzes, and performance-based pay increases

[00:45:30] Examples of why detailed training is necessary (like cleaning top to bottom)

[00:49:30] The legal complexities, taxes, insurance, and business skills nobody prepares you for

Resources Mentioned:

Contact Silver and Angel's Cleaning Service!

https://www.angelscleaningservicenw.com/

silver@angelscleaningservicenw.com

Instagram

LinkedIn

-------------------

Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠


Get in touch: 

⁠FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
3 months ago
57 minutes 53 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.8 How To Maximize Your Marketing: Why Strategy and Systems Matter More Than Tactics

In this episode, I break down why having a marketing strategy isn't just nice-to-have. It's absolutely necessary for your business success. I cover what a marketing strategy actually is (and it doesn't have to be overwhelming), why systems and processes are non-negotiable, and how to build something sustainable that won't burn you out.

Whether you're a solopreneur juggling everything or an established business with a team, this episode covers the foundations you need to see real growth.

Key Takeaways:

• A marketing strategy is simply your plan - it outlines where you are (point A), where you want to be (point B), and exactly how you're going to bridge that gap• Strategy without systems means chaos - if your marketing plan lives only in your brain, things will fall apart fast, especially when life gets busy• Sustainability over complexity - your marketing needs to work for YOU, your capacity, and your interests (hate social media? Let's find another way)• Foundation first, implementation second - you need crystal clarity on your offers, target market, and long-term vision before you can effectively market anything• Tracking and measuring are non-negotiable - you can't measure growth without knowing your baseline metrics and having systems to monitor progress

Timestamps:

[00:00:00] - Intro to the Do Good Business Podcast and Ashley's mission to redefine business success

[01:30] - What is a marketing strategy and why every business needs one, regardless of stage

[03:20] - How to make strategy sustainable without overwhelming yourself

[04:40] - The four critical elements you need clarity on: where you are, where you're going, your target market, and your offers

[07:20] - Why articulating your business clearly matters more than you think

[08:20] - Systems and processes: why your strategy cannot live in your brain

[09:10] - Ashley's project management system using ClickUp for podcast production

[11:30] - The power of repurposing content and using AI for content ideas

[12:50] - How proper systems prevent marketing from falling to the bottom of your to-do list

[14:00] - Free resources and courses available for different stages of business

[18:20] - Why people think they hate marketing (hint: it's usually a systems problem)

[21:00] - Real example of how marketing optimization can save money and cover investment costs

Referenced Links:

• ClickUp - My preferred project management tool for tracking marketing tasks and content. Use this affiliate link for 10% off!• Free Strategy Plan Workbook - High-level marketing strategy workbook to get started• Mini Course ($30) - Helps identify offers, target market, and messaging with workbook• Marketing for Success- The Course ($397)- Comprehensive marketing course with bite-sized videos teaching you how to market your business efficiently and effectively------------------------------------

Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠


Get in touch: ⁠

FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
3 months ago
22 minutes 35 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.7 Guest Interview: A Canine Experience with Trina Eddy

In this first guest interview on the Do Good Business Podcast, Ashley sits down with Trina Eddy, owner of A Canine Experience, a three-generation family business celebrating 30 years in Snohomish, Washington. The conversation covers decades of business evolution, from answering machines to automated text systems, surviving multiple economic downturns, and how a family business navigated from equal partnerships to structured leadership. Trina shares candidly about pivoting services, scrapping unprofitable programs, and discovering their most successful offering was something they initially said they'd never do. The discussion also explores the meaningful service dog work that drives their passion, from diabetic alert dogs to PTSD support for veterans.

Key Takeaways:

  • Technology adaptation is survival: Trina transformed their business from landline answering machines to automated text systems and nurture sequences, saving hours per lead and dramatically improving follow-up
  • Economic pivots require tough choices: During COVID aftermath, the family restructured roles, with Trina stepping back from daily operations to focus on marketing and business development as a CEO-type position
  • Values over profit matters: They abandoned a profitable daycare program because they weren't comfortable with the employee-to-dog ratios needed to make money, prioritizing safety and quality over revenue
  • Subscription models create stability: Moving from short-term training packages to ongoing monthly subscriptions provided residual income that helped weather slower periods
  • Leadership emerges from necessity: Even in equal partnerships, someone needs to direct and coordinate efforts, especially during challenging times when focused attention is required

Timestamps:

[00:02:00] - Origin story: How a torn-off bulletin board flyer at Bothell Feed changed three generations of lives

[00:07:20] - Trina's journey through financial planning and back to dogs via the Canine Chauffeur business

[00:10:30] - Surviving economic downturns and recognizing when business models need to change

[00:13:00] - Evolution from in-person networking (LeTip) to Facebook groups for lead generation

[00:15:50] - The business coach journey: Three years of "stalking" before making the investment

[00:16:00] - Technology transformation: From landline to automated text systems and nurture sequences

[00:27:00] - COVID impact: Feast during lockdown, famine when people returned to work and gave up pandemic dogs

[00:29:20] - Restructuring family roles: Moving from all equals to designated leadership

[00:32:00] - Scrapping unprofitable daycare despite market demand due to safety concerns

[00:33:20] - Day training program: Their most successful service they initially said they'd never offer

[00:35:30] - Shift to subscription models for ongoing training relationships

[00:40:10] - Service dog work: Training for PTSD, autism, diabetic alerts, and medical conditions

[00:48:20] - Search and rescue work and training dogs for archaeological grave detection

Connect with A Canine Experience!

  • Www.acanine.com
  • 360-488-0639
  • Info@acanine.com
  • Www.facebook.com/acanine
  • Www.instagram.com/acanineexp
  • Www.facebook.com/trinareddy


Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠

 

Get in touch with Dreager Marketing: ⁠

FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
3 months ago
53 minutes 56 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.6 Marketing and Messaging Do's and Don'ts for the Food and Beverage Industry

In this episode, Ashley breaks down the most common marketing mistakes she sees food and beverage businesses making—and more importantly, what to do instead. From coffee shops to restaurants, she covers why just posting pretty pictures isn't enough, how to be honest about promotions without being manipulative, and why making basic information hard to find is costing you customers. This isn't about following some cookie-cutter marketing playbook; it's about creating content that actually connects with people and drives them to your business.

Key Takeaways:

  • Stop posting photos of food and drinks without context, tell people what they're looking at, what's in it, and what it tastes like, especially for unfamiliar items
  • Be honest about your promotions instead of using manipulative language. People love supporting local businesses and saving money, so just say that's what you're doing
  • Make essential information (hours, location, menu, pricing, allergen info) easily accessible on both your website and social media
  • Use your marketing to set proper expectations and attract the right customers. If you're charging premium prices, let people know upfront
  • Focus on what makes you different from every other coffee shop or restaurant, your unique value proposition should be woven into your written content, not just plastered everywhere

Timestamps:

[00:00 - 00:41] - Introduction to the Do Good Business Podcast and episode overview

[02:55 - 05:17] - First major mistake: posting food/drink photos without context or descriptions

[05:33 - 07:27] - How to approach promotions and sales honestly without manipulation

[07:28 - 10:22] - Making essential business information easily accessible (hours, location, pricing, allergen info)

[10:23 - 11:33] - Why food and beverage experiences are emotional and how to differentiate yourself

[11:34 - 14:51] - The importance of written content and descriptive storytelling to make people want to visit

[14:52 - 15:17] - Closing thoughts and call to action for episode feedback


Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠

 

Get in touch: 

⁠FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
3 months ago
15 minutes 37 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.5 How To Use AI For Content Creation

In this episode, I cover the hot topic of using AI for content creation in your business. I break down why copy/pasting AI outputs feels inauthentic, share a real example from a dentist's email that shows how AI can fall short at times, and explain my approach to using Claude for content support. This episode gives you practical guidance on integrating AI tools while maintaining your unique voice and perspective.

Key Takeaways:

  • AI-generated content structures - The "it's not just X, it's Y" structure and heavy bullet point usage makes AI content immediately recognizable and can turn readers off
  • Vague prompts produce generic results - Simply asking AI to "write a social media post about XYZ" gives you surface-level content that lacks your unique point of view
  • Your lived experiences are your competitive advantage - AI has access to information, but what sets you apart is your unique point of view, opinions, and experiences that AI cannot create content on unless you provide it
  • AI works best as a refinement tool, not a creation tool - Write 90% of your content yourself, then use AI to help with sentence structure, clarity, or shortening wordy sections
  • Detailed prompts are essential for better outputs - Include specific information, context, and examples in your prompts rather than relying on AI to fill in too many gaps


Timestamps:

[00:42] - Introduction to AI discussion and current state of AI advancements

[01:49] - Why AI has a recognizable format for written content and how I spot AI-generated content

[03:05] - The coming demand for truly original content and connection barriers with AI-generated content

[04:24] - Live demonstration: I ask Claude to write a social media post about ethical marketing

[05:11] - Breaking down the "it's not just X, it's Y" AI pattern and bullet point overuse

[07:02] - Real example: dentist office email with vague "quick smile tuneup" language

[08:27] - How to improve AI prompts with specific details and context

[09:17] - Best practices: using AI as first draft vs. final step in content creation

[10:04] - What makes you different from competitors: your unique perspective and experiences

[11:11] - Brand voice considerations and avoiding typical AI structures

[12:16] - Why AI shouldn't be viewed as the easiest shortcut


Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠

 

Get in touch: ⁠

FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
3 months ago
13 minutes 54 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.2 Marketing Strategy- The Intent With Social Medi

This episode dives deep into the real purpose of social media in your marketing strategy and why most business owners are setting themselves up for frustration and burnout. Ashley breaks down the difference between social media as a visibility tool versus expecting it to be your main sales driver, and explains how to use it strategically without posting five times a week just to see four comments max.

She covers the importance of having clear intent behind every piece of content you create and how social media fits into the bigger picture of your overall marketing strategy.


Key Takeaways:

  • Social media is a top-of-funnel marketing channel - It's designed for brand awareness and visibility, not as your primary sales driver
  • Wrong expectations lead to burnout fast - If you're expecting social media to generate all your sales, you're setting yourself up for frustration
  • Strategy beats frequency - It's better to post less often with clear intent than to post daily just for the sake of showing up
  • Plan your content with purpose - Every post should have a reason and move your audience toward a specific next step
  • Social media isn't an owned channel - You have no control over algorithms or who sees your content, so don't make it your only marketing strategy


Timestamps:

[01:27] - Understanding social media as a top-of-funnel marketing channel

[02:40] - The real purpose of social media in your marketing strategy

[04:40] - How social media works for visibility and brand awareness

[05:25] - Why you need to maintain some level of social media presence

[08:04] - The importance of having strategy behind your content

[09:00] - Why planning content isn't sexy but is essential

[11:17] - Understanding channels vs. tactics in marketing strategy

[12:45] - How social media helps set expectations with potential clients

[14:00] - Recap: Social media's specific purpose in marketing strategies


Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠


Get in touch: ⁠

FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
4 months ago
18 minutes 2 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.4 Customer-Centered Messaging

In this episode of the Do Good Business Podcast, Ashley Dreager dives deep into the critical importance of customer-centered messaging in your content strategy. She calls out the problematic trend of business owners, particularly coaches, creating content that's all about themselves rather than their customers. Ashley explains why income claims and lifestyle-focused content can be misleading and dishonest, and provides practical strategies for shifting your messaging to center around your customer's needs, challenges, and desired outcomes. This episode is a must-listen for anyone tired of seeing "look at me" content flooding their feeds and wanting to create more ethical, effective marketing.

Key Takeaways:

  • Stop making yourself the hero - Your content should center around your customer's journey, not your personal achievements or lifestyle
  • Income claims without context are misleading - Sharing revenue numbers without explaining what went into achieving them leaves your audience to fill in dangerous gaps
  • Features vs. benefits matter - People care more about what they'll get from working with you than what you'll do for them
  • Personal content has its place - There's a time to share about yourself, but it should always tie back to how it benefits your client
  • Customer-centered messaging builds trust - When people feel seen and understood in your content, they're more likely to believe you can solve their problems


Timestamps:

  • [03:06] - Introduction to customer-centered messaging and why it matters
  • [04:33] - The coaching industry problem with self-focused content
  • [05:57] - Why income claims can be problematic and misleading
  • [07:16] - The apples-to-oranges comparison issue with revenue sharing
  • [09:18] - When and how to share income results appropriately
  • [10:31] - The importance of context in case studies and results
  • [14:03] - When it's appropriate to share personal content
  • [16:52] - Shifting personal content back to customer benefits
  • [18:03] - Features vs. benefits in your messaging
  • [20:03] - How customer-centered content builds trust and engagement


Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠


Get in touch: ⁠

FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
4 months ago
22 minutes 52 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.3 Ethical Marketing- What It Is and What It Isn't

In this episode, Ashley breaks down the difference between ethical marketing and manipulative strategies, calling out income claims, oversimplified solutions, and fake urgency tactics that promise quick results but rarely deliver.

Ashley shares why building a business on honesty and transparency creates more sustainable growth, better client relationships, and that word-of-mouth referral system every entrepreneur dreams of.


Key Takeaways:

  • Income claims are misleading: When someone flaunts their revenue to establish authority, they're usually making money by selling courses about making money - not from the actual business they're teaching
  • Oversimplified solutions don't work: Claims like "this one reason is why you're not making sales" ignore the complex reality that business success depends on multiple factors
  • Context matters for success stories: Without knowing someone's starting point, audience access, and full circumstances, their results aren't comparable to yours
  • Fake urgency destroys trust: Those countdown timers and "only 24 hours left" offers that reset daily train customers to be skeptical of all online businesses
  • Ethical marketing builds sustainable growth: Honest, transparent marketing takes longer but creates loyal customers who refer others and reduces dependence on constant promotional tactics


Timestamps:

[00:41] - Why misleading marketing tactics are everywhere and why they work so well[02:08] - The "one reason you're not successful" tactic breakdown[03:20] - Income claim marketing and why revenue doesn't equal expertise[04:36] - The importance of context in success stories[06:03] - Affiliate marketing income claims and the circular money-making model[07:26] - Why these tactics aren't sustainable long-term strategies[08:06] - Client example: choosing integrity over clickbait[09:12] - AI money-making scheme callout[10:12] - The benefits of honest, ethical marketing approaches[12:55] - How ethical marketing sets proper customer expectations[14:21] - Fake urgency tactics and countdown timer frustrations[15:40] - Why these practices hurt the entire online business industry[16:45] - Final thoughts on building authentic business growth


Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠

 

Get in touch: ⁠

FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
4 months ago
18 minutes 33 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.1 Why Most Small Business Marketing Fails (And How To Fix It!)

In this episode, Ashley Dreager breaks down the real reasons why marketing isn't working for most small businesses. And no, it's not because of trending audio or hashtags. Ashley gets into the unsexy truth about what actually makes marketing work - consistency, patience, and understanding the why behind the tactics you're using. She also calls out the problem with blindly following every piece of marketing advice you see on social media without considering if it even applies to your business.

Key Takeaways:

  • Consistency beats perfection - Most small businesses fail at marketing because they're not consistent enough. You need 20-30 touchpoints before someone's ready to buy, and posting once a week means you're looking at 4-5 months minimum.
  • Give your strategy 90 days - You need to stick with one specific approach for at least 90 days before you can evaluate if it's working. Switching tactics every few weeks just resets the clock.
  • Not all marketing advice applies to you - That Instagram guru's strategy might work for their business, but it doesn't mean it'll work for yours. Understanding the why behind tactics helps you adapt them to your situation.
  • Marketing is boring and repetitive - If you're tired of saying the same thing over and over, you're probably doing it right. Your audience needs to hear your message multiple times before they'll take action.
  • People lurk longer than you think - Just because you're not getting immediate feedback doesn't mean your marketing isn't working. People watch, read, and listen for months before they reach out.


Timestamps:

02:00 - The biggest reason marketing fails: lack of consistency

03:00 - Why you need 20-30 touchpoints before someone's ready to buy

07:00 - The 90-day rule for evaluating marketing strategies

10:00 - Stop blindly following marketing trends and tactics

15:00 - Why effective marketing feels boring and repetitive

17:00 - People lurk longer than you think before taking action


Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.

  • ⁠ashleydreager.com⁠
  • ⁠Instagram⁠


Get in touch: ⁠FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook⁠

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out ⁠this form⁠ and I'll reach out!

Show more...
4 months ago
19 minutes 9 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
1.0 Do Good Business Trailer

The Do Good Business Podcast is your hub for:

  • Inspirational Stories from real entrepreneurs who've built profitable ethical businesses
  • Marketing Strategy beyond social media
  • Ethical Business Practices that align with your values
  • Real-World Examples including strategy sessions and case studies
  • Honest Conversations about what actually works vs. what's complete BS


Get ready for deep dives into:

  • Ethical marketing tactics (calling out the questionable ones!)
  • Customer-focused business strategies
  • Marketing myths and propaganda you shouldn't subscribe to
  • The customer journey and awareness scale
  • AI in business
  • Growing sustainable businesses without burnout
  • The difference between marketing and sales


Have questions or topics you'd love to hear about? I want to hear from you! This isn't a one-size-fits-all approach. There are millions of ways to grow a business, and I'm here to help you find what works best for you.


Get in touch:

  • ashleydreager.com
  • Instagram


FREEBIE! Client Journey Mapping Workbook

Want me to help with your marketing? Fill out this form and I'll reach out!

Show more...
4 months ago
12 minutes 6 seconds

The Do Good Business Podcast
I'm Ashley Dreager, and I'm here to talk about building profitable, ethical businesses. There are solid strategies that actually work, and then there's misleading garbage put out just to make a sale. I call out the difference. We have real conversations that go deep. I break down what's working for those building businesses the right way, and call out the ridiculousness flooding your feeds. Straightforward advice, real stories, honest conversations about what works and what's BS.