How can small business owners make the most of their marketing budget without wasting money on ads that don’t work? In this episode of Passion But Make It Profit, Julia sits down with Carly Saddoti, founder of Buttoned Up Consulting, to talk about paid advertising strategies that actually deliver results for entrepreneurs on a tight budget.

Carly brings over 20 years of experience in the advertising agency world, now helping businesses as a brand and marketing strategist and fractional CMO. Together, Julia and Carly dive into:

• How to decide where to spend your ad dollars (print, social media, Google, and more)

• Why knowing your target audience is the foundation of every successful campaign

• How to test and track ads so you stop wasting money and start seeing ROI

• When it makes sense to outsource advertising vs. DIY

• The importance of an omni-channel marketing approach for long-term growth

If you’re a small business owner, solopreneur, or local entrepreneur wondering if Facebook ads, Instagram, print, or Google are worth it, this episode will give you the clarity you need to maximize your marketing spend and grow with confidence

In this episode of Passion But Make It Profit, Julia sits down with Tara Haley of The Women’s Journal to uncover the art of telling your authentic story in business. Tara shares her 17+ years of experience helping entrepreneurs and organizations shine through storytelling, the proven ADA framework (Attention, Interest, Desire, Action), and why print media—yes, magazines and mailers—are making a comeback for small business marketing.

You’ll hear how to:

• Use the ADA method to craft compelling stories that connect with customers

• Leverage AI tools like ChatGPT to help uncover your unique brand story

• Blend traditional media (print, direct mail, custom magazines) with digital platforms for maximum credibility and reach

• Turn customer stories and educational content into powerful marketing assets that drive loyalty and sales

Whether you’re a solopreneur looking to share your story without feeling like you’re bragging, or a small business owner wanting fresh marketing ideas beyond social media, this episode is packed with strategies you can put into action today.

Tune in and learn how to market authentically, connect deeply, and grow profitably—without losing the heart behind your business.

If your industry feels overcrowded, this episode will give you the tools to finally stand out.

Julia sits down with Sam Steele, a real estate agent who’s mastered the art of attracting clients through social media — without cold calling, awkward sales scripts, or burning out.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to use Instagram Reels to connect with your local audience (even if you’re camera shy)

• The “no lunch alone” networking strategy that turns strangers into business advocates

• How to build relationships with other local businesses so your marketing budget supports your community

• Why consistency matters more than perfection in content creation

• How Sam turned a single flip into a thriving real estate investing side business

Whether you’re a realtor, photographer, hair stylist, or any small business owner, Sam’s approach works in any industry. You’ll walk away with practical ideas you can start using this week.

Resources & Links Mentioned in This Episode:

• Follow Sam on Instagram: @thetopknot.realtor (or update link after rebrand)

• Follow Julia on Instagram: @justflourishmarketing

• Visit Just Flourish Marketing: https://justflourishmarketing.com

Let’s connect:

• Instagram: @justflourishmarketing

• TikTok: @justflourishmarketing

• Facebook: Just Flourish Marketing

If you loved this episode, please follow the podcast and leave a 5-star review — it helps more business owners find the strategies they need to grow without losing the heart behind their work.