Digital Marketing Stories on Bad Decisions With Jim Banks (Jim Banks)
Explore every episode of Digital Marketing Stories on Bad Decisions With Jim Banks
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| 27 Dec 2023 | Unleashed Potential, How Getting Laid Off Catapulted Jon Loomer to Digital Marketing Stardom | 00:46:58 | |
Welcome to the first episode of "Bad Decisions with Jim Banks," where we dive into the serendipitous journeys of brilliant minds in business and marketing, and learn from the good, the bad, and the sometimes lucky twists of fate that propel us forward. Today, I'm joined by the one and only Jon Loomer, the man who turned an accidental detour into a thriving marketing powerhouse. From coaching little league to becoming a meta ads genius, Jon's story is a masterclass in pivoting with purpose. We'll explore his early days at the NBA, how a couple of layoffs led to a seismic shift in his career, and how he built jonloomer.com out of necessity, only to have it grow into a goldmine of Facebook marketing savvy. Get ready to uncover the value of doubling down on a niche, embracing the grind of content creation, and the magic of building a community that outshines the competition. And yes, we'll get into the raw reality of moments of doubt, the mental health struggles of working in isolation, and why Jon ended up making 70 videos in a month – spoiler alert, it wasn't for instant fame. So buckle up, grab your coffee – Jon's already got his – and prepare for a deep dive into the evolution of online marketing.
Timestamp Overview 00:00 - Fell in love with platform, marketer without experience. 04:25 - Starting website led to unintentional business launch. 09:18 - Wrote blog posts about platform, promoted brand. 11:58 - Book writing challenges due to fast-moving environment. 14:49 - Reflect on past presentations; marketing principles still relevant. 17:10 - Power Hitters Club support digital agency owners' growth. 22:56 - Morning routine includes coffee, book, and meditation. 25:40 - Conferences create valuable connections for industry professionals. 29:06 - Struggling business leads to necessary changes. 31:29 - Embracing failure led to business turnaround success. 34:09 - Uploading to multiple places boosted my reach. 36:34 - Create valuable content, more chances to connect. 41:52 - Eagerly anticipated newsletter, different perception, enjoying threads. 43:02 - Comparing Threads to early days of Facebook. ncErl03Dhe7z5ghFEUCJ | |||
| 28 Feb 2024 | Reflections of a Podcaster 6 Episodes In | 00:27:16 | |
So, having interviewed 6 people and being away from my studio I thought I would try something different for this weeks episode of Bad Decisions with Jim Banks. I thought it would be good to walk and talk, so listen to me walk around the 5.5 kilometer (3 miles) of the Yas Marina Abu Dhabi Grand Prix track and share with you my thoughts on setting up the podcast, how being a podcaster has been, what I've enjoyed, what I've learned, how I create the podcast, what the plans for the future are and so much more. This is one episode where watching the video might also be useful and if you visit YouTube and search for "Bad Decisions with Jim Banks" you should be able to find the episode. Mentioned on this episode ** Please be advised that this episode contains explicit language. Some listeners might prefer not to hear, in which case this is your fair warning ** | |||
| 08 May 2024 | How One Huge Gamble on a Newsletter Ignited a Digital Empire | 00:36:36 | |
Today's guest, Emanuel Cinca, also known as Manu, joins us to share his unique journey from a struggling university student to a professional poker player, and finally to a successful digital marketing publisher. Manu pioneered Stacked Marketer, a newsletter that now commands an impressive audience of over 100,000 subscribers. We dive deep into the acquisition of complementary newsletters, the challenges of digital advertising, and how maintaining a reader-engaging tone has been pivotal in his strategy. Manu’s open-book policy on revenue stats, his successful sponsorship strategies, and his insights into future challenges for publishers paint a comprehensive picture of the digital marketing landscape. Whether you're an aspiring newsletter publisher, a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned digital marketer, there’s a wealth of knowledge to unpack in today’s episode. I hope you enjoy listening to it as much I made making it for you. I have one small favour to ask, as you listen to the episode would you please follow the show on whichever platform you prefer to listen to podcasts on. If you like video then I suggest YouTube or YouTube Music is your best choice and you can subscribe to receive notifications of future episodes. For audio, you can find and follow the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and wherever else you listen, just search for Bad Decisions with Jim Banks. | |||
| 15 May 2024 | Exploring Bad Business Choices and SEO Insights with Ash Nallawalla | 00:53:29 | |
Today, we have an incredible story that traverses continents, careers, and the evolving digital age. Joining me is Ash Nallawalla, an SEO consultant with an extraordinary journey. From his humble beginnings in Bombay, India, to his unexpected career shifts in Australia and New Zealand, Ash has navigated the turbulent waters of technology, marketing, and entrepreneurship. In this episode, we discuss the challenges of competing with AI in the publishing industry, the highs and lows of SEO consulting, and the hard lessons learned from undervaluing one's services. Ash opens up about his struggles in the mid-80s trying to break into the computer industry, his eventual success in desktop publishing, and his pivotal role in growing Melbourne PC user group’s internet service. We also delve into the nitty-gritty of SEO, the significance of understanding search intent, and the balance between SEO and PPC in digital marketing. Plus, Ash shares valuable insights from his book, 'Accidental SEO Manager,' and the unique hurdles he faced in getting it published. Resources Discussed On The Episode I have one small favour to ask. Can you please follow the show on whichever platform you prefer to listen to podcasts on. If you like video then I suggest YouTube or YouTube Music is your best choice and you can subscribe to receive notifications of future episodes. For audio, find and follow the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music or wherever else you listen, just search for Bad Decisions with Jim Banks.
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| 25 Mar 2024 | Leaving Money On The Table | 00:04:37 | |
Thought I would jazz things up a bit and add in an extra "episode" with a short aha moment or tip while we work on pulling together the guest interviews for Wednesdays. This particular aha moment is about the Amazon Associates program and how members of the program can stop leaving money on the table when they post their content on YouTube, Instagram or anywhere else for that matter where the geographic location of your visitors can mean the difference between a big fat commission or a big fat duck egg. There is also a great story about Sean Cannell and Think Media, tea, biscuits and some bad decisions. Love to know what you think of the idea of the shorter form episodes, that are not really episodes.
One small ask - would you subscribe to the show and leave me a rating - it goes a long way as I get the show off the ground
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| 03 Jan 2024 | How a Billion-Pageview Dream Survived Digital Marketing Disasters | 00:45:21 | |
Welcome back to another episode of "Bad Decisions with Jim Banks". Today, in episode two, we have an exceptional guest, Jason Barnard, also known as the Brand SERPs Guy and easily recognizable in his signature red shirt. I'm your host, Jim Banks, and together we'll dive into the intricacies of written processes, the crucial balance of freedom and support in teams, and the evolution of Google’s role in personal and business branding. In this episode, Jason shares his journey from musician to digital marketing maestro, highlighting the billion page views milestone his strategies helped achieve. We'll also discuss the backbone of successful businesses—systems, processes, and templates—and why remaining flexible within their structure is key. Jason discusses the power of machine learning to automate and streamline within his company, Kalicube, and the overall shift from being a hands-on SEO expert to leading a dynamic team that’s steering his company forward. He emphasizes Google's fickle nature and the need for businesses to avoid over-reliance on the search engine by diversifying their traffic sources. We also take a personal turn, where Jason reveals how overcoming school challenges led to aspirations of reuniting with former bandmates, and how he and I reflect on the importance of school reunions for reconnecting with our past. Get ready for a candid conversation about the importance of carving out individual brand identities, the transformation from individual contributor to CEO, and the empowerment that comes from having a strong, supportive team behind you. Don't forget, we want to hear from you—so be sure to leave us a review, subscribe, and share "Bad Decisions with Jim Banks" with your friends. Let's get started. Timestamp Overview 00:00 - Changing clothes, gig, Manu Chao's shirt story. 04:30 - 25 years musician turned digital marketing SEO. 07:43 - Google aims to promote authoritative sites, despite changes. 12:49 - Received negative feedback, challenges in maintaining brand image. 15:14 - Transformation from individual to CEO, delegating responsibility. 17:55 - Focus on all aspects of business for success. 20:50 - Team helps keep me focused and productive. 23:40 - Elisa leads Kalikube Pro, solving digital marketing. 27:21 - Leading and managing teams is challenging yet rewarding. 31:00 - Remaining flexible in updating outdated processes constantly. 35:42 - End in mind, never stop thinking, work. 36:53 - Mission: Simplify digital presence through confidence and control. 39:56 - Reconnecting at a school reunion is cathartic. | |||
| 31 Jan 2024 | Surviving the E-Commerce Rollercoaster - Tales from the Costume Business | 00:30:38 | |
In this episode, we have a lively discussion with Nathan Huppatz, an experienced professional in the digital marketing and e-commerce space. Join us as we delve into Nathan's journey, from his early fascination with the Internet in the 90s to his ventures in e-commerce, including creating a successful costume business. Stay tuned to hear about the challenges and successes, and how the impact of COVID-19 transformed the landscape.
Timestamp Overview 00:00 - Fascination with the internet from a young age. 05:45 - Started small importing cars, now in startup. 07:14 - Worked with computers, especially with Google search. 11:18 - Learning from ecommerce experience to build software. 15:39 - Harry Potter boosted unexpected Book Week sales. 18:20 - Technical issues led to episode's premature end. | |||
| 10 Jan 2024 | From Avocado Overload to Legal Blender Battles, The Perishable Puzzles of DTC | 00:49:10 | |
Today, we're going to unpack a whole spectrum of topics with Vin. Brace yourselves for insights on new ventures, chat about the weighty role of high-quality content in marketing, and touch upon the use of AI tools, like ContentX powered by Chat GPT, to generate SEO-friendly content. We'll also dip into the story of our near-miss trip to Boston right as COVID-19 turned the world upside down, leading not only to a lost business opportunity but also a hiatus in our friendship—a bond that has thankfully been re-forged in part through this very podcast. Vin will give us a peek behind the curtain of DTC logistics, from dry ice adventures to challenging the notion of subscription model ethics. We even have a blender episode in the mix, showcasing the practical hurdles of championing consumption in a perishable business. Plus, hear about tax woes post-exit negotiations, the journey from Butcherbox to Smoothie Box, and Vin’s tale of twins, home-selling, and starting anew. As always, we wrap up with some hearty reflection on making connections and forging friendships, both in business and in life's meandering path. So, listeners, tune in, because today’s episode is charged with stories of resilience, realizations about relationship-building, and regaling tales of obstacles overcome in the world of ecommerce. And as we delve in, remember we're all just muddling through our labyrinth of choices – and sometimes, it's the bad decisions that make the best stories. Let's get started. Mentioned in the episode Timestamp Overview 00:00 - Vin presents business challenges, gets helpful feedback. 05:28 - Funny memory, friendship strengthened, potential for work. 08:35 - Desperate decision to split tickets amid uncertainty. 10:30 - Missed opportunity, lost friendship, life changes. 15:49 - New Year's resolutions and gym subscriptions explained. 17:00 - Using blenders increases value for customers. 21:21 - Company navigated lawsuit, became top smoothie contender. 25:33 - Challenges of content and creating Pontinex solution. 27:20 - Additional content essential to reach wider audience. 31:30 - Position and champions vital for Shopify add-ons. 34:33 - Acknowledging strengths, accepting and challenging viewpoints. 37:05 - Mutual admiration and support in business ventures. 41:07 - Importance of catchy hooks and visuals for YouTube. 44:12 - Considering best practice, while exploring new endeavors. 48:06 - Grateful for the genuine friendship and connection. | |||
| 15 Apr 2024 | Unlucky For Some | 00:06:33 | |
A soul searching episode with a back story to the early 90's, some really bad decisions and how tossing a coin can help you arrive at the right decision. Short episode with some profound and personal content for you to listen to, hop you enjoy it and learn.
One small ask - would you please subscribe to the show and leave me a rating - it goes a long way as I get the show off the ground
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| 13 Mar 2024 | How Missteps in SEO Catapulted His Career to New Heights | 00:44:06 | |
Today we're diving into the intersection of bad decisions, digital marketing, and the power of connections with the CEO of Be Found Online, Steve Krull. Steve's journey from exploiting a business's website weaknesses to becoming an SEO expert unfolds a tale of liberation and the birth of his agency Be Found Online (or BFO as it is better known). We explore the raw reality of running a digital agency, touching on the importance of trust in client relationships and why sometimes, smaller is better. We get personal about our experiences of being taken advantage of in business and our preference for the personal touch versus the allure of luxury items. We discuss the need to stay authentic in the ever-changing landscape of social media and the shifting demographics on platforms like TikTok. As we grapple with the latest Google core update and the role of AI in digital marketing, Steve shares his innovative approach to creating short, informative content for LinkedIn. We dive into some tech tips and tools for podcasting and video analysis, so be sure to check the show notes to learn more about the tools discussed. Join us as we reflect on the significance of personal connections made at conferences like Hubspot Inbound and how face-to-face interactions define our growth. So buckle up, as we unpack the lessons learned from the missteps and the strategic moves that shape success in the digital marketing world. This is "Bad Decisions with Jim Banks," and you're about to find out how bad decisions have paved the way for better ones for Steve Krull.
Episode Timestamp 00:00 "Bad Decisions" podcast featuring digital marketing mistakes. 04:38 Lost business due to sharing too much. 09:16 Building lasting connections, not just networking. 11:01 Confidence in socializing helped close business deals. 15:30 Networking without expectation leads to success. 18:48 Sales manager discovers employee pretending to work. 21:49 Tech conference topics and Google updates in Vegas. 25:42 Podcast host discusses guest promotion and tools. 27:56 Struggles with writing led to blog transcription. 32:23 Respect for elders, concern about industry future. 33:23 Efficiency, growth, and diversification in agency business. 38:52 Interest in digital marketing and reaching new audience. 42:08 Chrome plugin, analyze TikTok profiles, stats summary. 42:56 Virality doesn't guarantee financial success for creators. | |||
| 01 Jan 2025 | Navigating Google Penalties and SEO Audits with Kaspar Szymanski | 00:50:04 | |
Join Jim Banks as he sits down with SEO expert Kaspar Szymanski to discuss how bad decisions and outdated practices can impact your site's performance. Learn how to avoid common SEO pitfalls and optimize your strategies for success.
Be sure to subscribe for more insights on maintaining your website's health and performance I have one small favour to ask, as you listen to the episode would you please follow the show on whichever platform you prefer to listen to podcasts on. If you consume video podcasts then subscribe to the podcast over on YouTube Music is your best choice and you can subscribe to receive notifications of future episodes. For audio, find and follow the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and wherever else you listen, just search for Bad Decisions with Jim Banks.
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| 21 Feb 2024 | Unlock Success - Tim Ash Reveals his Biggest Blunders in Digital Marketing | 00:41:13 | |
This is episode number 6, and joining me today is my old friend and insightful thinker, Tim Ash. Tim is well-known for his pioneering work in digital marketing, particularly in conversion rate optimization. But lately, he's turned his expertise towards a broader horizon, focusing his energy on the intersections of leadership, public speaking, and the primal aspects of human behavior. Today, we'll unravel the complex layers behind making impactful decisions, the blend of luck and hard work in career success, and the importance of purpose in driving our professional journeys. We'll explore the tough decisions leaders face and the implications of rallying people around a cause, whether for better or worse. Tim shares his concerns about the social deficiencies faced by younger generations due to the pandemic, and we'll delve into the juicier topics of human nature, mentoring in the digital marketing industry, and China's one-child policy aftermath. We also get personal - reflecting on the influential roles of teachers, the transformative power of gratitude, and evolving beyond fixed versions of ourselves. We talk about the evolution of ideas, even drawing parallels between the growth of YouTube and this very podcast. Finally, Tim will bring to light his book "Unleash Your Primal Brain," discussing how understanding our evolutionary psychology can drastically improve not just business and relationships, but also personal development. Aiming to co-create a world of peace, safety, and love, Tim's purpose-driven approach to life is sure to provide invaluable takeaways for everyone tuning in. So, buckle up and get ready for a deep dive into the psyche, purpose, and the power of decisions. Let's make some Bad Decisions with Tim Ash.
Timestamp of key points in the discussion 00:00 Focusing on passions led to successful pivot 03:57 Content with emphasis on small agency success 09:31 Geopolitical analyst Peter Zan predicts China's future 10:53 Fostering diversity and inclusion in digital marketing 15:55 Perspective on diversity and reverse discrimination 18:01 Quality speakers prioritize industry knowledge and experience 20:39 Create a positive tribal culture for leadership 26:23 Options considered for company's financial future. CEO's decision 29:13 Pursue peace, love, and purposeful decision-making 31:30 Tim's impactful teaching leaves a lasting impression 34:31 Teaching culture as a human superpower in life 37:21 Embrace change and go with the flow | |||
| 16 Oct 2024 | Her Biggest Digital Marketing Fails | 00:48:50 | |
I have one small favour to ask, as you listen to the episode would you please follow the show on whichever platform you prefer to listen to podcasts on. If you consume video podcasts then subscribe to the podcast over on YouTube Music is your best choice and you can subscribe to receive notifications of future episodes. For audio, find and follow the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and wherever else you listen, just search for Bad Decisions with Jim Banks.
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| 14 Feb 2024 | Mistakes to Millions, Alita's Guide to Transforming Marketing Mishaps into Major Wins | 00:34:08 | |
Welcome back to another episode of "Bad Decisions with Jim Banks" – the podcast where we delve into the minds of digital marketing leaders making waves and learn from their experiences and, occasionally, their bad decisions. Today, in Episode 5, we're joined by Alita Harvey-Rodriguez, founder and managing director of MI Academy. Alita is a powerhouse in digital marketing and innovation, with a decade-long career transforming organizations from the inside out. This episode covers the unique approach of project-based training and how it directly aligns with achieving specific organizational goals. We'll dive into how her team uses AI to amplify project outcomes and discuss the power of human experiences amidst technological advancements. Consideration is also given to the intersection of corporate growth and philanthropy. Alita shares her drive for making an impact, not just in business but in global issues such as child safety and combating child trafficking – a poignant topic that aligns with Jim's passion for charity work. Expect to hear about how MI Academy is revolutionising the retail and e-commerce industry with their "hack games" innovation incubator, and how Alita's strategic vision is leading to expansive growth, potential investor partnerships, and an exit plan that defines the future of the company. Alita also brings invaluable insights on team efficiency and the use of an impact matrix, complemented by a generous offer for podcast listeners. So buckle up, grab your notepad, and let's explore how to drive sustainability in business and make a difference in the world with Alita Harvey-Rodriguez on "Bad Decisions with Jim Banks." Don't forget to check out the show notes for all the relevant links, including how you can take advantage of Alita's exclusive offer for BDWJB listeners. Let's get started. 00:00 Alita, founder of MI Academy, digital marketing expert. 05:30 Transition to enterprise, avoid negative connotations. 07:05 Project-based training trend in Europe gaining traction. 09:58 AI can enhance, not replace, human work. 16:10 Using templates, generate ideas to solve problems. 17:06 Industry struggles post-Covid, event scheduling challenge. Suggestions? 20:04 Different business sizes impact learning and marketing. 24:58 Funding hospital, shifting aid focus to Australia. 26:29 Podcast discussed charity work in Haiti, positivity. 30:31 Identify tasks, align projects, measure business impact. | |||
| 04 Dec 2024 | SEO, Brand Transition, and Financial Accountability in 2024 | 01:10:13 | |
Today, we're joined by Kevin Gibbons, the founder of Re:signal, who shares his journey through the ups and downs of the search industry, from SEO consulting to handling major brand transitions. We'll dive into Kevin's experiences with career changes, the challenges and pitfalls of the franchise model at Blueglass, and what he's learned from past failures. Jim Banks and Kevin also discuss the importance of purpose and value in their work, the evolution of remote work setups, and the significance of financial accountability within a business. Stay tuned as we explore the lessons learned from these pivotal moments and how they shaped Kevin's path forward. Whether you're a seasoned professional or just starting in the industry, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. I have one small favour to ask, as you listen to the episode would you please follow the show on whichever platform you prefer to listen to podcasts on. If you consume video podcasts then subscribe to the podcast over on YouTube Music is your best choice and you can subscribe to receive notifications of future episodes. For audio, find and follow the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and wherever else you listen, just search for Bad Decisions with Jim Banks.
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| 08 Apr 2024 | Not My First Rodeo | 00:07:18 | |
It's been a tough few months since I launched the podcast. Partly because I was travelling and hadn't worked out how to keep the cadence of publishing going and also because just having podcast guests puts pressure on schedules. Solo episodes, like this one, are much easier to make. I can talk directly to you and share my thoughts and feelings, as well as tips, tricks and things that are aha moments. My digital marketing guests so far have been amazing. I've loved the conversations and am so thankful that they gave up their time to come and talk to me. Sure, they all mainly have their own things they are trying to achieve, whether it is book promotion, speaking promotion, new business. In this short solo episode I share how someone made me feel when they reviewed my digital marketing podcast on their show. I've flip flopped between being grateful and being annoyed about the feedback I got. But, now that I have made this episode, I can park it and move forward. There is a valuable lesson here for all of us in how and when you should give feedback and the impact it might have on the recipient. Please listen to the end, and do what I ask you to do. It's not for me. It's for you. I only have one small ask - please subscribe to the show and leave me a rating or a review - it goes a long way as I get the show off the ground. And tell a colleague, friend or family member looking to get in to digital marketing to come and listen.
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| 10 Apr 2024 | Mistakes in Marketing Ashley Segura Confesses Biggest Content Marketing Blunders | 00:38:53 | |
This week's guest is Ashley Segura, the co-founder of Content Yum. We take a deep dive into content marketing, SEO, and the evolving role AI is playing today. Listen as we explore Ashley's new venture, Content Yum, and its human-centric approach to content creation. We discuss the competition posed by AI-generated content and its impact on SEO and content marketing. Ashley shares personal stories about the negative effects of spam content and the importance of authenticity in user-generated content (UGC) and what UGC actually is might shock you. Ashley shares the importance of having a solid content strategy and the significance of actively looking for criticism and feedback for growth. Gain insight into the importance of authority in product reviews and the potential pitfalls of relying too heavily on AI in business decisions. Be sure to listen in, follow and subscribe and share with an industry friend or someone interested in breaking into content marketing specifically or digital marketing more generally. Discussed on the Episode One small ask - would you please subscribe to the show and leave me a rating. Feedback is the food of champions and I love getting feedback, even if it is negative. | |||
| 25 Sep 2024 | From Stress To Flexibility - How Sarah Stemen Did It | 01:00:00 | |
Welcome back to another episode of "Bad Decisions with Jim Banks." After a brief summer hiatus, we’re diving right back into the thick of things with an exceptional guest, Sarah Stemen. Sarah, a seasoned marketing expert who recently transitioned into consulting, joins us to talk about the significant and impactful decisions she has made throughout her career and personal life. In this episode, Sarah reveals the lessons she learned from referring clients to larger agencies, the evolving landscape of marketing, and the importance of networking and maintaining strong industry connections. Jim also shares his insights on balancing professional work with personal life, emphasizing the necessity of setting boundaries and ensuring mental well-being. We delve into Sarah's bold career change from a demanding agency role to a more flexible consulting position, driven by her need to manage both her professional aspirations and family obligations. Sarah and Jim also discuss the challenges and opportunities in PPC, the shifting dynamics of digital marketing, and the essential nature of holistic marketing approaches over single-channel specializations. Join us as we explore these topics and more, including the importance of client relationships, the impact of Google Ads on small businesses, the value of organic social media marketing, and the significance of speaking engagements and networking at conferences. Sarah also shares her journey of managing client expectations, transitioning to a focus on training and building self-sufficient ad campaigns, and the role of inclusivity and diversity in industry events. Whether you're a marketing professional, a business owner, or someone interested in the ever-changing digital landscape, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspiring stories. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy another eye-opening conversation on "Bad Decisions with Jim Banks." I have one small favour to ask, as you listen to the episode would you please follow the show on whichever platform you prefer to listen to podcasts on. If you consume video podcasts then subscribe to the podcast over on YouTube Music is your best choice and you can subscribe to receive notifications of future episodes. For audio, find and follow the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and wherever else you listen, just search for Bad Decisions with Jim Banks.
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| 03 Apr 2024 | Confessions of Digital Marketing Missteps with Dave Roth | 00:44:49 | |
In episode 10 Jim delves into the twists and turns of agency life, working in-house with 20 year digital marketing veteran Dave Roth and his bumpy journey as a digital marketer. Discover the high-stakes world of managing campaigns with an insider's perspective from his time at Yahoo and realtor.com Learn about Dave's early involvement in "that search engine thing" which led to a decade at Yahoo managing substantial search engine marketing budgets for their internal paid media channels and delivering over 3 billion page views a day for their many web properties. We explore the complexity of running Google Ads accounts today vs. the past and how generative AI can help streamline workflows, and the constant innovation required in the digital marketing industry. We jump into the challenges and strategies needed to work with startups, setting expectations, and maintaining client relationships and why Jim doesn't like working with startups (no offense to any startups) One small ask - would you please subscribe to the show and leave me a rating - it goes a long way
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| 05 Jun 2024 | From Google to Optmyzr Navigating the Complex World of Ad Tech | 00:53:24 | |
In this episode of Bad Decisions with Jim Banks, we sit down with Fred Vallaeys, CEO of Optmyzr to explore the evolution of the advertising industry and the role of AI in shaping the future. Join us as we delve into Fred's fascinating journey and insights. Topics discussed include - The importance of continuous experimentation in Google Ads. - Transitioning from in-person conferences to online PPC town halls. - The potential of AI to preserve industry knowledge for future generations. - Challenges and frustrations with machine learning in advertising. - The significance of understanding and providing value to customers. 🧰 Resources mentioned or used making this episode 🧰
I have one small favour to ask, as you listen to the episode would you please follow the show on whichever platform you prefer to listen to podcasts on. If you like video then I suggest YouTube or YouTube Music is your best choice and you can subscribe to receive notifications of future episodes. For audio, find and follow the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and wherever else you listen, just search for Bad Decisions with Jim Banks.
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| 29 May 2024 | Unveiling Google's Ad Secrets - Revealing the truth with Boris Beceric | 00:44:43 | |
In this episode of Bad Decisions with Jim Banks, Boris Beceric, a PPC consultant specialising in Google Ads, joins Jim to discuss the challenges and insights of Google Ads advertising strategies. We discuss the : - Subjectivity of "cheap" in marketing - The impact of AI in Google Ads - The challenges in data tracking and understanding the value of conversions - The role Google reps play in managing Google Ads accounts - The importance of aligning strategies with client objectives 🧰 Resources mentioned or used making this episode 🧰
I have one small favour to ask, as you listen to the episode would you please follow the show on whichever platform you prefer to listen to podcasts on. If you prefer video podcasts then I suggest YouTube or YouTube Music as your best choice and you can subscribe to receive notifications of future episodes. For audio, find and follow the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music or wherever you choose listen to listen to your favourite digital marketing podcast, just search for Bad Decisions with Jim Banks.
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| 13 Nov 2024 | AI, Google's Impact, and the Future of SEO Conferences | 00:42:16 | |
In this episode, Jim sits down with none other than Brett Tabke, the founder and CEO of Pubcon, a legendary figure in the world of SEO and digital marketing. We take a trip down memory lane, revisiting how Jim and Brett first met at Pubcon London in 2001, and the pivotal moments at the Citie of York pub that helped shape their enduring friendship. Brett shares his journey from the early days of informal gatherings discussing search engines to organizing Pubcon, a premier conference that's stayed true to delivering quality content over networking fluff. We'll talk about the evolution of search engine conferences, dealing with industry challenges, and the often harsh impact of Google updates on businesses. Plus, we'll explore the future of AI in advertising, the authenticity of AI-generated content, and the dynamic transformations in digital communications and event management. But it's not all tech talk. Brett opens up about the personal and financial challenges he faced during the pandemic, the resilience required to keep Pubcon alive, and the significant transformation of the conference landscape. We'll hear insights on the importance of community engagement, the need for reliable information, and the ever-changing trends in content consumption. Get ready for a candid and insightful episode filled with industry anecdotes, professional reflections, and a hearty dose of wisdom from one of the best in the business. Grab your headphones and settle in for another episode of "Bad Decisions with Jim Banks" I have one small favour to ask, as you listen to the episode would you please follow or subscribe to the show on whichever platform you prefer to listen to podcasts on. If you consume video podcasts then subscribe to the podcast over on YouTube Music and you can receive notifications of future episodes. For audio, find and follow the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and wherever else you listen, just search for "Bad Decisions with Jim Banks"
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| 20 Nov 2024 | Lessons from Digital Marketing Career Missteps | 01:01:23 | |
Today, we're breaking new ground with not one, but three incredible guests - Taryn Stoddard, Kali Ashford, and Sara Malo. All trailblazers in their own right, they share their unique experiences and insights from navigating the challenging waters of male-dominated industries. This episode explores the spectrum of their professional journeys. We'll touch on the importance of boundaries, the evolving dynamics of gender roles in the workplace, and how collective support has helped these women carve out spaces of their own. Plus, we'll discuss innovative initiatives like LinkUnite, a community that aims to elevate female representation in the performance marketing industry. Join host Jim Banks as he reflects on his own career challenges, while engaging with our guests about the lessons they've learned from their past, the technical hurdles they’ve overcome, and their visions for a more inclusive future. Whether you're curious about the nuances of urban networking, keen on understanding the balance between chivalry and modern professional conduct, or looking for inspiration on supporting young talent, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. So, let’s get into it.
I have one small favour to ask, would you please visit this link and follow the show on whichever platform you prefer to listen to podcasts on. If you prefer video podcasts then subscribe to the podcast over on YouTube and subscribe to receive notifications for future episodes. | |||
| 11 Sep 2024 | Affiliate Marketing Success - Lee-Ann Johnstone Shares Her Journey and Tips | 00:47:59 | |
I have one small favour to ask, as you listen to the episode would you please follow the show on whichever platform you prefer to listen to podcasts on. If you like video then I suggest YouTube or YouTube Music is your best choice and you can subscribe to receive notifications of future episodes. For audio, find and follow the podcast on Apple, Spotify, Amazon Music and wherever else you listen, just search for Bad Decisions with Jim Banks.
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| 01 May 2024 | From War to Web - A Journey of Survival and Influence | 00:37:42 | |
Anton Shulke is an inspiration. He is from Ukraine and when the war started everyone in the search community rushed to Facebook looking for the video that Anton posted of himself drinking a coffee. Since then he has moved on to many countries. He is also fantastic at creating influencer communities. So enjoy this discussion with Anton on Bad Decisions with Jim Banks Discussed during the episode One small ask - If you do nothing else, please, please, please can you visit Anton's Buy Me A Coffee link. He donates every penny to support the stray cats and dogs that have been left abandoned by the war in Ukraine.
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| 20 Dec 2023 | Welcome to Bad Decisions with Jim Banks | 00:01:33 | |
| 17 Apr 2024 | From SEO Missteps to PPC Triumphs - Navah Hopkins Unveils Her Bad Decisions | 00:48:55 | |
In this episode we dive into conversation with my guest, the PPC evangelist from Optmyzr, Navah Hopkins. Navah shares her wisdom on the industry’s pressing need for diversity, her own challenges on the speaking circuit, and the pivotal role brands have in creating an ecosystem that embraces underrepresented voices, especially women. We unpack the importance of providing a platform and opportunities to speak at industry conferences. Navah's insights on navigating the complexities of SEO and PPC marketing will shine a light on good and bad decisions made in these fields. We discuss the evolution of Google's advertising tools, the ethics around branded search, and the indispensable value of trust in this business and the special role of the Google Ads liaison representative. Navah's transition from SEO to PPC to makes her perfect for her role with Optmyzr, we're covering all angles. All this and more in today's engaging episode of "Bad Decisions with Jim Banks". Every decision has a story, and today's might just change your perspective on the digital marketing industry. Discussed on the episode
One small ask - would you please subscribe to the show and leave me a rating - it goes a long way as I get the show off the ground
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| 24 Apr 2024 | Revealing Digital Marketing Missteps that Made Her a Star | 00:37:03 | |
Today, we're in for a special treat as we're joined by Purna Virji, a renowned PPC expert, author, consultant, and all-around guru in digital marketing. In today's episode, we're diving deep into the labyrinth of explaining digital marketing to the uninitiated, tackling the misconceptions and complexities with Purna's incisive clarity. We'll get a glimpse into her world – from university days in Cardiff to her big move to the US, navigating through her auspicious career trajectory that led her straight to the heart of SEO. As we unravel Purna's approach to creating high-impact content that stands the test of time, we will also explore how to combat the challenge of rising AI influence and still produce content that resonates authentically with our audience. Purna will reveal some pearls of wisdom on crafting a book that becomes an evergreen resource, and we'll even touch upon the economic pressures shaping digital marketing today. So, sit tight and get ready for an insightful journey that could reshape the way you view content creation, leaving you with a fresh perspective on how to leave a meaningful legacy in a world constantly morphing by technology. It's time to take our bad decisions and turn them into powerful learning experiences, here on Bad Decisions with Jim Banks. Don't forget to check our show notes for more on Purna's strategies, and be sure to follow, subscribe, and share our podcast with your colleagues and friends. Let's dive in. Discussed on the episode | |||