Welcome back to The Pulse of Marketing, where we break down the game of marketing so you can win with clarity, confidence, and integrity. In today’s Marketing Monday episode, we’re diving into Building a Business with What You Have | Episode 30. You don’t need millions in the bank, fancy investors, or a tech team to get started; you need resourcefulness, strategy, and the right mindset. This episode will show you how to start where you are, use what you’ve got, and scale smarter without breaking your budget. If you’ve ever felt stuck because of limited money, connections, or tools, this one’s for you. By the end of Building a Business with What You Have | Episode 30, you’ll walk away with a step-by-step playbook to transform what looks like “not enough” into the exact advantage you need to build momentum and grow. What You Will Learn: ✅ How to start a business with little or no money ✅ Ways to flip small wins into unstoppable momentum ✅ Strategic networking tips to build equity without capital ✅ The blueprint for designing a scalable business model from the ground up ✅ How to think like a marketer and stop chasing opportunities—create them instead ✅ The mindset shift that helps you build smarter, not broke

In this week’s episode of The Pulse of Marketing on Marketing Monday, Build Smarter, Not Broke | Hustle From Zero to Business | Episode 29, Coach LJ breaks down how to start a business from absolutely nothing and scale it into something sustainable without going broke in the process. Whether you’re bootstrapping your dream or looking for lean marketing hacks, this episode is packed with actionable strategies for entrepreneurs who are ready to build smarter, not broke. From real-life examples to practical step-by-step tips, we explore how to leverage creativity, purpose, and authenticity when resources are limited. This isn’t about quick wins or overnight success; it’s about building a business that lasts, even when your budget is tight.

How to Win When Government Cuts You Off | Episode 28. Welcome back to The Pulse of Marketing, your go-to spot for real-world strategies for real people building real businesses. In this week's episode, How to Win When Government Cuts You Off | Episode 28, Coach LJ breaks down how entrepreneurs, creatives, and side hustlers can still thrive, even when traditional systems pull the plug. You’ll learn how to validate your idea, build with integrity, and launch lean while staying resilient in unpredictable times. This episode is a must-watch for anyone navigating unstable government support, economic downturns, or systemic barriers. 🔥 What You Will Learn: How to bounce back when government programs end Why now is the time to validate and launch smarter How to convert your hustle into a sustainable business Strategies to stay ready when systems don’t serve you How to position yourself for the next opportunity window

In this week’s Marketing Monday episode of The Pulse of Marketing, we unpack what’s really inside Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill: Side Hustle Survival Guide and why 2025 is a wake-up call for every aspiring entrepreneur, 9–5er, and side hustler. Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill: Side Hustle Survival Guide (Episode 27) examines how recent economic policy proposals are altering the financial landscape, eroding social safety nets, increasing the burden on middle-class families, and widening the gap for underrepresented entrepreneurs. In this breakdown, Coach LJ reveals the hidden costs, the opportunities, and why building your own income stream is no longer optional; it’s essential. ✅ What You Will Learn in Episode 27: How Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill could impact your wallet, taxes, and access to public benefits The difference between tax relief and safety-net cuts and why it matters The regressive economic effects this bill could have on underserved communities Why launching a side hustle in 2025 is more than trendy; it’s a protective strategy How to build a marketing game plan that keeps you financially resilient A practical challenge to activate your business instincts today Whether you’re building from zero or scaling up, this episode equips you with the economic awareness + strategic tools to thrive in uncertain times.

In this week’s episode of The Pulse of Marketing, Coach LJ breaks down how to launch and grow your business in 2025 without spending a single dollar on ads. Yes, it’s possible, and it’s powerful. Titled "$0 Funnel Blueprint: Grow Your Business Without Ads in 2025 | Episode 26," this episode is designed for solopreneurs, side hustlers, and service providers who are ready to turn content, community, and clarity into cash, without breaking the bank. Whether you're building a brand from scratch or scaling lean, this step-by-step playbook will help you create a marketing funnel that converts on a $0 budget. If you’re wondering how to move from just having ideas to launching with action and alignment, this is the episode for you. 💡 What You Will Learn in Episode 26: ✅ How to create a $0 launch funnel without paid ads ✅ The mindset shift from selling to serving through value ✅ Why building community before the sale is the new superpower ✅ How to validate your offer without wasting time or money ✅ The 3-part $0 Funnel Blueprint to get leads and build loyalty ✅ Why launching lean isn’t just possible, it’s profitable

If you’ve ever said, “I can’t afford to market,” this one’s for you. In Episode 25 of The Pulse of Marketing, Coach LJ breaks down Why You Need a $0 Marketing Plan: A Step by Step Guide to help you build visibility, credibility, and momentum, without breaking the bank. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, creative professional, or side hustler on a budget, this episode proves that with strategy, consistency, and free tools, you don’t need money to make marketing work. Discover how to turn your story, skill set, and social presence into a powerful content engine using only what you already have. 🔍 Why You Need a $0 Marketing Plan: A Step by Step Guide | Episode 25, What You’ll Learn: ✅ How to launch your brand with no ad spend ✅ The key pillars of organic content that drive engagement ✅ Free tools that save time, boost visibility, and build trust ✅ Mindset shifts to help you stay consistent even when your budget is $0 ✅ Real strategies that Coach LJ used to grow The Pulse of Marketing without paid ads ✅ Why community, value, and storytelling are your greatest marketing assets

Welcome back to The Pulse of Marketing for another Marketing Monday! In today’s episode, Circle vs Heartbeat: Which Grows Faster? | Episode 24, Coach LJ breaks down why making the switch was the best move for building a lean, scalable, cohort-based mentorship business without sacrificing cash flow or community quality. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, educator, or creator building a cohort-based community, this episode will help you evaluate whether Circle or Heartbeat aligns with your mission, your budget, and your growth goals for 2025. 🎯 What You Will Learn: ✅ The fundamental differences between Circle and Heartbeat for community-building in 2025 ✅ How to host cohort courses and public events seamlessly without high costs ✅ How to onboard members efficiently for your boot camps and communities ✅ How to encourage daily member engagement without burning yourself out ✅ How to use analytics and automations to scale with clarity ✅ How to integrate your tech stack for effortless operations ✅ How to align your platform with your mission for substantial growth

In this week’s Marketing Monday episode of The Pulse of Marketing, we dive into the truth behind the question: Why 2025 Is the Best Year to Start a Business | Episode 23, and what it means for aspiring entrepreneurs, side hustlers, and anyone sitting on a powerful idea. 2025 isn’t just another year; it’s the turning point. Whether you're launching your brand, scaling a service, or turning your skills into income, this is your moment. Why 2025 Is the Best Year to Start a Business breaks down the real-world tools, strategies, and mindset shifts that make starting in today’s market not only possible but powerful. From overcoming startup myths to using AI and automation to grow on a budget, you’ll walk away with clarity, confidence, and a clear action plan.

📺 Welcome to Episode 22 of The Pulse of Marketing, “Marketing vs Selling: Why Most People Get It Wrong,” where Coach LJ breaks down what separates marketing from selling and why understanding this truth could radically transform your brand’s results. Suppose you've ever wondered why your audience isn’t converting or why your campaigns fall flat even when your product is excellent. In that case, this episode reveals the emotional core, strategic nuance, and timing difference between marketing and selling. This isn’t about picking sides—it’s about knowing how they complement each other. 💡 What You Will Learn in Episode 22 | Marketing vs Selling: Why Most People Get It Wrong About: The one overlooked distinction between marketing and selling that most entrepreneurs miss Why marketing sets the stage and selling closes the curtain How to align your content, messaging, and CTA strategy for real results What happens when your brand’s marketing feels like something (and why that drives sales) The secret behind emotional resonance and how to create movements, not just transactions 🔁 Whether you're just starting or scaling your business, this episode will help you build systems that work together, not against each other.

Welcome to Episode 21 of The Pulse of Marketing! In today’s Marketing Monday, we dive deep into one of the most crucial mindset shifts for entrepreneurs: How to Grow a Business Without Outside Funding. Too many entrepreneurs believe money solves everything, but what if the real power move is understanding how to market? In this episode, Coach LJ unpacks why marketing, not funding, is the key to traction, transformation, and long-term sustainability for your startup or small business. Whether you’re just starting or trying to scale without loans, this episode is your roadmap. If you’re ready to stop chasing capital and start building clarity, confidence, and consistent cash flow, this one’s for you: How to Grow a Business Without Outside Funding. 🎯 What You Will Learn in This Episode: ✅ The dangerous myth of “Funding First” thinking ✅ How to build a brand that attracts customers before capital ✅ Practical steps to master low-cost marketing on a tight budget ✅ Why marketing is your foundation—not just a tool ✅ How to align your business model and brand with your lifestyle ✅ Proven methods to monetize what you know—without a loan ✅ How to shift from burnout to boldness through strategy

Welcome back to another powerful Marketing Monday on The Pulse of Marketing with Coach LJ! In Episode 20—7 Marketing Tools You Need in 2025 (Part 2 of the Series), we explore the essential digital tools every entrepreneur, small business owner, and content creator needs to build visibility, scale faster, and dominate their niche in 2025 and beyond. Whether a beginner or an experienced pro, these tools are handpicked to save time, boost creativity, and simplify complex marketing tasks. From design and screen recording to live streaming, research, and presentation storytelling—this episode is your go-to resource. If you’re serious about upgrading your brand, you won’t want to miss 7 Marketing Tools You Need in 2025 (Part 2 of the Series). 💡 What You Will Learn in This Episode: ✅ How to design pro-level graphics without a designer using Canva ✅ How to communicate clearly and quickly with clients and teams via Loom ✅ How to improve live streams, podcasts, and virtual interviews using Ecamm, Riverside FM, Restream, and Evmux ✅ How to streamline your content research process using NotebookLM ✅ How to create custom music intros and soundtracks with SUNO ✅ How to present stunning visuals and pitch decks using Beautiful.ai ✅ Why your website is still your most important business asset in the digital world

Welcome to The Pulse of Marketing on Marketing Monday! In this week’s episode, Tariff Proof: 6 Best Businesses to Start in 2025 | Episode 19, Coach LJ reveals the top six ventures designed to withstand rising trade barriers and economic shifts. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or an established business owner, discover actionable insights to build resilience and capitalize on booming markets in 2025. What You Will Learn: Tariff Proof: 6 Best Businesses to Start in 2025 | Episode 19. How to identify investments that shield your venture from unpredictable tariff changes Practical examples and data-driven stats to support each business model Strategies for getting started on a budget and scaling sustainably Why Watch? Learn the six most resilient business models for 2025 Get real-world case studies—from local brands to tech-enabled ventures. Find out which markets are projected to grow fastest and why

In this episode of The Pulse of Marketing on Marketing Monday, Navigating 2025: Businesses to Avoid Amid Rising Tariffs. Coach LJ dives into the critical landscape of 2025 and uncovers the types of businesses that could face significant challenges as tariffs continue to rise. Understanding these risks can help you make informed decisions, pivot where necessary, and build a resilient business strategy that thrives in an ever-changing economic environment. What You’ll Learn: The categories of businesses most vulnerable to tariff increases and why How click-and-mortar models are transforming traditional retail The importance of conducting a SWOT analysis in turbulent markets Strategies for future-proofing your business against economic uncertainties The role of mentorship and community in strengthening your business’s foundation Actionable planning steps to prepare for and weather market turbulence

How should entrepreneurs pivot when trade policies shift overnight? In Trump’s Tariff Shakeup: What It Means for Marketers | Episode 17, Coach LJ explains how the new 2025 tariffs—including a proposed 25% import levy—reshape marketing strategies for small businesses, especially within Black and minority-owned communities. This episode of The Pulse of Marketing delivers practical, actionable insights to help you survive and thrive in an evolving economic landscape. Whether you run a brick-and-mortar boutique or a click-and-mortar eCommerce business, Trump’s Tariff Shakeup: What It Means for Marketers gives you the tools to stay informed, protect your profit margins, and future-proof your brand. 📘 What You Will Learn: ✔️ How new trade tariffs are affecting consumer behavior and spending patterns ✔️ Why domestic supplier relationships are more crucial than ever ✔️ Budget-friendly digital marketing tips to expand your brand reach ✔️ How flexible pricing can protect customer loyalty ✔️ The power of staying informed and agile in unpredictable times ✔️ Why community collaboration and continuous learning are essential in 2025 ✔️ How to link your marketing strategy to sustainable growth

In this week's The Pulse of Marketing episode on Marketing Monday, we explore strategies and tools for improving marketing while keeping costs low. Discover "How to Elevate Your Marketing on a Budget | Episode 16" and learn practical, actionable tips for making the most of your marketing efforts. What You Will Learn: How to Elevate Your Marketing on a Budget with proven tools and techniques Practical insights on leveraging AI solutions, affordable video tools, CRM platforms, and community-building strategies How upgrading your tech can streamline content creation and enhance efficiency. Tips to maintain momentum with the right marketing tools at your disposal

In this week’s Marketing Monday episode, Navigating Economic Uncertainty: Strategies for Marketers Amid Slow Growth | Episode 15, we explore how businesses can survive and thrive during challenging economic times. This episode covers a range of essential strategies, from practical tips on maximizing your marketing budget to refining your brand messaging and strengthening customer relationships. By tuning in, you’ll gain actionable insights on leveraging digital marketing channels, adapting your product offerings, staying ahead of trends, and turning obstacles into opportunities. What You Will Learn: How to optimize your marketing budget in a slow-growth economy How to adjust your brand messaging to better connect with your audience. How to effectively use digital channels to extend your reach and impact Ways to strengthen relationships with your customers Techniques for adapting and innovating products to meet shifting customer needs Insights into staying ahead of the latest marketing trends Proven strategies to navigate and thrive during economic challenges

In this week’s episode, Why Vulnerability is the Key to Authentic Content | Episode 14, we’ll discuss how to tap into and express your natural talents authentically. From using writing as an outlet to experimenting with podcasting, we’ll cover strategies for creating content that feels genuine and sustainable. Discover how frameworks can guide your creative process and learn to balance your introverted, extroverted, or “ambivert” tendencies. We’ll also explore the transformative role of community, vulnerability, and self-expression in driving personal growth and building authentic connections. Whether you’re just starting or refining your content strategy, this episode provides actionable steps to help you embrace your strengths and create impactful, meaningful content. What You Will Learn: How to identify your natural strengths in content creation. The benefits of writing and podcasting as authentic outlets for expression. The importance of frameworks in simplifying your creative process. Ways to balance your personality traits (introvert, extrovert, or ambivert) for sustainable growth. Why vulnerability and community play a crucial role in building connections.

In this episode, “Transform Your Marketing: Low-Budget Strategies That Work | Episode 13.” We dive into low-cost marketing strategies that yield high-impact results. Drawing inspiration from a game of chess, we’ll explore how to think several moves ahead in your marketing plan—without breaking the bank. From grassroots campaigns to leveraging community power, you will gain practical insights and examples to apply today. What You Will Learn: How Lyft’s grassroots and guerrilla tactics drove growth. The power of strategic partnerships, like Nike and Apple’s collaboration. The versatility of affiliate marketing, using the Amazon Affiliate Program as a guide. Here are some tips from Gary Vaynerchuk on maximizing social media and podcast content. Email marketing strategies inspired by Amazon’s personalized recommendations. Community-building lessons from OpenAI, Peloton, and Glossier.

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to return to marketing basics, cutting through the complexity of modern strategies and focusing on what truly works? In this week’s episode, Remember When Marketing Was Simple? Let’s Bring It Back | Episode 12: we’re diving into how to strip away the clutter and rediscover the core marketing principles that make marketing effective. From understanding market segmentation to leveraging digital platforms and honing your brand’s message, this episode will remind you why the fundamentals still matter—and how they can help you achieve marketing clarity. What You Will Learn: How to revisit and apply the 4P’s to simplify your marketing approach The importance of precise market segmentation, targeting, and positioning Insights into how consumer behavior and branding go hand-in-hand Tips for integrating digital marketing and CRM into a cohesive strategy The ethical considerations that keep your marketing efforts aligned with your brand’s values

Welcome to our latest Marketing Monday episode! In “Master the Marketing Mix: How to Use the 4 P’s (Plus One!) to Grow Your Business” | Episode 11, we’ll explore the time-tested marketing framework that has helped countless brands achieve sustainable growth. Whether launching a new product, fine-tuning your pricing strategy, ramping up promotions, or better understanding your target audience, this episode is packed with practical insights and actionable advice. You’ll learn how each element of the marketing mix—Product, Price, Place, Promotion, and People—plays a crucial role in your overall strategy. By the end of this episode, you’ll have a clearer understanding of how to align these factors to create a more effective and cohesive marketing plan. What You Will Learn: How to Perfect Your Product: Ensure your offering meets customer needs. Pricing Strategies That Work: Find the right balance between value and profitability. Promotion That Resonates: Craft campaigns that connect with your audience. The Importance of Place: Reach your customers where they already are. The Power of People: Leverage human connections to drive trust and loyalty.