Marketing Matters™ Podcast Summary

Episode #49: Lauren’s Win from the Marketing Matters™ Retreat

Release Date: December 2, 2024
Host: Ashley Brock
Guest: Lauren Oggs G., Retired Teacher Turned Fashion Influencer

Introduction to Lauren’s Journey

In Episode #49 of Marketing Matters™ with Ashley Brock, Ashley introduces Lauren Oggs G., a retired teacher who transformed her passion for fashion into a thriving influencer career. Lauren's rapid success post-attendance at the Marketing Matters™ Retreat serves as an inspiring case study for small business owners and entrepreneurs looking to enhance their marketing strategies.

Lauren’s Background and Career Transition

Lauren shares her diverse career path, highlighting her transition from aspiring theater major to a dedicated teacher and eventually to a successful fashion influencer.

• Early Career Struggles:
  “[03:03] B: …I was going to be famous, whatever.”
  Lauren candidly discusses her uncertainty and varied career choices before finding her true calling.

• Teaching Experience:
  “[03:50] B: …I taught people how to sell. And those skills are very transferable…”
  Her experience as a sales trainer provided her with valuable skills that seamlessly transitioned into her influencer role.

The Catalyst for Change: Overcoming Personal Challenges

Lauren delves into the personal hardships that propelled her into the influencer space, including a significant health scare.

• Health Battle:
  “[04:11] B: …I had colon cancer, which was random and wasn't expected.”
  Diagnosed with colon cancer, Lauren emphasizes how this experience made her reevaluate her life's direction and reignite her lost passions.

• Rediscovering Herself:
  “[08:06] A: …you didn't have an expectation.”
  Lauren’s lack of preconceived expectations allowed her to pivot smoothly and embrace opportunities without fear of failure.

Embracing Authenticity and Courage in Marketing

A central theme of the episode is the importance of authenticity and courage in building a successful marketing strategy.

• Building Authentic Connections:
  “[08:50] B: …act authentically, because there's a difference.”
  Lauren highlights how genuine interactions and staying true to oneself attract and retain a loyal audience.

• Overcoming Fear:
  “[23:47] B: …courage just means you're willing to do it no matter how scared you are.”
  She distinguishes between confidence and courage, emphasizing that taking action despite fear is crucial for growth.

Strategic Marketing Moves: Leveraging Paid Ads

Ashley and Lauren discuss the pivotal role of paid advertising in scaling Lauren’s influencer business.

• Effective Use of Paid Ads:
  “[14:19] A: …you can pour gasoline on that fire.”
  Ashley explains how Lauren utilized paid ads to amplify successful organic posts, resulting in exponential follower growth from 1,100 to 86,000 in less than a year.

• Diversifying Advertising Channels:
  “[36:57] A: …we don't just dial in social media.”
  Lauren emphasizes the importance of integrating various advertising platforms beyond social media to ensure business sustainability.

Building a Supportive Community

The retreat facilitated meaningful connections, fostering a supportive network that contributed significantly to Lauren’s success.

• Value of Community:
  “[20:15] B: …the connections that we all made and how we all helped one another.”
  Lauren attributes much of her growth to the relationships and support system established during the retreat.

• Impact of Shared Experiences:
  “[22:47] A: …Lauren does literally not dip her toes in anything.”
  Their collaborative efforts and shared insights during the retreat underscored the power of collective learning and support.

Financial Management and Business Sustainability

Addressing the challenges of managing finances as a new business owner, Lauren shares her learning curve and strategies for sustainable growth.

• Navigating Financial Fears:
  “[26:23] A: …you can still have the growth and the success.”
  Lauren discusses the anxiety of fluctuating income and the importance of trusting the process despite financial uncertainties.

• Importance of Financial Literacy:
  “[28:17] A: …money and advertising and managing a team.”
  Ashley highlights the need for business owners to understand key financial aspects to prevent future setbacks.

Key Takeaways and Insights

• Authenticity Drives Engagement: Being genuine attracts a dedicated audience and fosters long-term relationships.
• Courage Over Confidence: Taking action despite fear can lead to unexpected and rewarding outcomes.
• Strategic Use of Paid Ads: Leveraging paid advertising can significantly amplify successful organic content.
• Community Support is Vital: Building and maintaining a supportive network enhances personal and professional growth.
• Financial Literacy Ensures Sustainability: Understanding and managing finances is crucial for long-term business viability.

Notable Quotes

• Lauren on Courage:
  “[23:47] B: …courage just means you're willing to do it no matter how scared you are.”

• Ashley on Authentic Marketing:
  “[30:23] A: …we don't just dial in social media. It’s a piece of your ads machine.”

• Lauren on Overcoming Challenges:
  “[18:02] B: …if you can find someone who’s willing to share their knowledge with you, it can fast track you.”

Conclusion

Lauren’s story is a testament to the transformative power of strategic marketing, authenticity, and community support. Her journey from a retired teacher to a successful fashion influencer underscores the importance of embracing change, overcoming personal challenges, and leveraging the right marketing tools to achieve remarkable growth. Entrepreneurs and small business owners can draw valuable lessons from Lauren’s experience, particularly in utilizing paid ads effectively, building genuine connections, and maintaining financial discipline to ensure sustained success.

For those interested in Lauren’s journey and strategies, consider attending the upcoming Power of Paid Ad Summit in January, where Lauren will be a featured speaker.

Connect with Lauren Oggs G.:
Instagram: @LaurenOggsG
Website: www.laurensfashioninfluencer.com

Join the Power of Paid Ad Summit:
Get your ticket here

This summary captures the essence of Episode #49, providing insights into Lauren’s successful transition and the marketing strategies that facilitated her growth. Listeners who missed the episode can gain a comprehensive understanding of the key discussions and actionable takeaways.