313: Stop Using AI Wrong: Strategy First, Then Technology

Send us a text In this episode of Imperfect Marketing, I sit down with Sara Nay, CEO of Duct Tape Marketing, to dive deep into the connection between business strategy, marketing execution, and the evolving role of AI. Sara shares her journey from intern to CEO over her 15 years at Duct Tape Marketing and offers powerful insights on why strategy must always come before tactics and technology. Together, we explore how small businesses can future-proof their marketing and teams in an ever-changing digital world. The Foundation of Effective MarketingWhy business strategy must drive marketing strategyThe “Marketing Strategy Pyramid”: business, marketing, and team strategy layersHow to align marketing goals with revenue, mission, and values The Role of AI in Modern MarketingWhy AI is a tool, not a replacement—and how to introduce it without fearCommon mistakes businesses make when adopting AI without strategyExercises to help teams identify tasks AI can support vs. areas to develop human strengths Shaping the Future of Marketing LeadershipThe growing divide in the marketing industry: AI adopters vs. AI skepticsWhy agencies and consultants must shift from execution to leadership and strategyHow AI allows more focus on creativity, empathy, and critical thinking Mapping the Customer JourneyIntroducing the Marketing Hourglass: know, like, trust, try, buy, repeat, referHow businesses can identify gaps and opportunities along the customer journeyWhy great client experiences naturally lead to stronger referral business Lessons Learned in MarketingWhy “more” is not always better when it comes to channels and tacticsThe importance of focusing on what works and making it sustainableHow simplifying your approach reduces burnout and creates consistent results Key Takeaways for MarketersStart with strategy before adding tactics or tools.Use AI to support—not replace—human creativity and leadership.Focus on where your audience is and what’s sustainable for you.Great client experiences lead to natural referrals and long-term growth. Connect with Sara Nay: Links to Book: Unchained: Breaking Free from Broken Marketing Models: How Small Businesses Can Finally Take Control of Their Marketing, Lead with Strategy, and Scale with AI: https://unchainedmodel.com/ Amazon: https://a.co/d/6aLtopF LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saranay/ Whether you’re a small business owner overwhelmed by technology or a marketing consultant navigating the rise of AI, this episode will help you rethink your approach and focus on what truly matters. 👉 Ready to align your marketing with your business goals? Tune in and learn how to lead with strategy for long-term success. Looking to leverage AI? Want better results? Want to think about what you want to leverage? Check and see how I am using it for FREE on YouTube. From "Holy cow, it can do that?" to "Wait, how does this work again?" – I"ve got all your AI curiosities covered. It"s the perfect after-podcast snack for your tech-hungry brain. Watch here