Imperfect Marketing

Kendra Corman
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Join Kendra Corman and her guests as they provide small business owners and solopreneurs actionable tips and insights about how to do more effective and efficient marketing that drives results.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    5 Human Skills That Make You Irreplaceable in the AI Era

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Imperfect Marketing, I sit down with Stephanie Sylvestre, founder of Avatar Buddy, to explore how AI is reshaping the way businesses operate—and why human skills matter more than ever. Stephanie shares her fascinating journey from corporate IT leadership to building an AI-powered company, along with the lessons she’s learned along the way (including a few hard-earned ones she hopes you won’t have to repeat). We dive into how businesses can actually use AI effectively—without losing their values, their culture, or their competitive edge. In this conversation, we discuss: The Human Skills That Matter Most in an AI World  Why resilience is essential when working with AI (hint: your first output isn’t your best)  How creativity and resourcefulness give you a competitive advantage—especially in fast-changing environments  The critical role of problem-solving and critical thinking when AI sounds right… but isn’t  Why these “human skills” are becoming the real differentiator in an AI-driven world Demystifying AI for Businesses  What AI agents actually are—and how they can streamline your workflows  How AI can save massive amounts of time when used strategically  Why understanding your data is just as important as understanding the technology  The biggest mistake organizations make when adopting AI too quickly Responsible AI: Where Ethics Meet Execution  Why responsible AI starts with people—not the technology  How your data directly shapes your AI outcomes (for better or worse)  Practical ways to build ethical guardrails into your AI systems  Why transparency, ownership, and respect for content matter more than ever AI, Leadership, and Company Culture  How AI can actually strengthen (not weaken) your company culture  Why leaders need to treat AI like any other business initiative—with clear goals and strategy  The importance of starting small, iterating, and evolving your AI implementation  How AI can reduce internal friction and improve team dynamics Key Takeaways for Marketers and Leaders  You’re not selling AI—you’re selling trust  AI won’t replace people, but people who use AI effectively will have a clear advantage  Your values should guide how you implement and use AI  Success with AI comes from clarity, strategy, and continuous iteration Whether you're just starting to explore AI or looking to refine how you’re using it in your business, this episode offers a grounded, practical perspective on what it really takes to succeed. Are you ready to use AI in a way that actually supports your business—and your values? Tune in to learn how to make AI work with you, not instead of you. Connect with Stephanie Website: https://avatarbuddy.co/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avatar_buddyai/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@avatar_buddyai?lang=en 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

    27 min

  2. 2 APR

    The Science of Getting People to Say Yes (Ethically)

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Imperfect Marketing, I sit down with Patrick Van Der Burght, a Cialdini Certified Trainer and expert in ethical persuasion. We explore how understanding the psychology of decision-making can transform the way we approach marketing, sales, and communication. Patrick shares how discovering the science behind persuasion helped him move from struggling sales results to becoming a trusted authority on ethical influence.  We discuss: How People Actually Make Decisions Why most decisions happen subconsciouslyThe difference between intuitive thinking and logical thinkingHow short attention spans affect modern marketingThe Seven Principles of Persuasion Reciprocity, liking, unity, and social proofAuthority, consistency, and scarcityWhy these principles work across cultures and industriesPractical Persuasion Strategies How testimonials and social proof influence buyersWhy framing messages around avoiding loss can be more persuasiveThe surprising power of leading with a weaknessKey Takeaways for Marketers Ethical persuasion builds trust and long-term relationshipsSmall language changes can dramatically increase resultsUnderstanding human psychology makes marketing more effectiveWhether you're in marketing, sales, or leadership, this episode reveals how small shifts in messaging can lead to stronger influence and better outcomes. Connect with Patrick: Website: https://ethicalpersuasion.com.au/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ethicalpersuasion/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-van-der-burght/ 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

    35 min

  3. 26 MAR

    When to Turn OFF the AI (And Trust Yourself Instead)

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Imperfect Marketing, Kendra talks about the growing misuse of AI in marketing and why relying on it too heavily can actually damage your credibility and connection with your audience. While AI can be a powerful tool, Kendra explains why it should support your ideas—not replace your thinking, voice, or experiences.  Drawing from real examples with clients and her own marketing experiments, Kendra explores the difference between AI-generated content and AI-assisted content—and why that distinction matters more than ever. The Problem with “AI Slop” How businesses are using AI to generate content without reviewing or editing itWhy generic AI-written blogs and posts weaken credibilityWhat happens when marketing strategy is replaced by automationAI as a Tool, Not a Replacement Why AI still needs human insight, direction, and editingThe difference between AI-assisted content and AI-generated contentHow AI can save time without sacrificing authenticityThe Power of Human Stories in Marketing Why personal stories and experiences connect with audiencesHow unique moments—like real-life anecdotes—create authenticityWhy AI can’t replicate your quirks, voice, or lived experiencesWhat Happens When You Trust Your Voice How Kendra saw stronger engagement after shifting from AI-generated to AI-assisted emailsWhy audiences respond to content that feels human and personalHow authentic marketing leads to better results and new clientsKey Takeaways for Marketers Why strategy and audience understanding must come from you—not AIThe importance of reviewing and editing every piece of AI-assisted contentHow to audit your recent marketing to make sure your voice is still presentIf you’re using AI in your marketing—or wondering if you’re relying on it too much—this episode offers a practical reminder that the real value in your content comes from your perspective, stories, and strategic thinking. AI can help you move faster, but your voice is what makes your marketing meaningful. 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

    17 min

  4. 19 MAR

    Is AI Killing SEO? What Small Businesses Need to Know Now

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Imperfect Marketing, Kendra Corman sits down with SEO expert Kyle Bailey to explore how artificial intelligence is changing the search landscape—and what businesses should really focus on to stay visible online. Kyle shares his journey from growing up around construction trades to building an SEO agency focused on helping home service businesses succeed online. Along the way, the conversation dives into the realities of modern SEO, the myths around AI replacing search, and why understanding your customer still matters more than any algorithm update. The Evolution of SEO in the Age of AI AI tools like ChatGPT are changing how people search for information—but they haven’t replaced traditional search engines. Kyle explains: Why Google still has a major advantage because it can crawl and understand websites more effectivelyHow AI platforms currently rely on signals like reviews and third-party sources (Yelp, Google Reviews, etc.)Why businesses need to expand their reputation across multiple platforms—not just GoogleThe risks of “gaming the system” with SEO shortcuts that create short-term gains but long-term damage  The takeaway? Solid SEO fundamentals still matter—and probably always will. The Right Way to Approach SEO Strategy One of the biggest mistakes businesses make is chasing SEO “cheat codes.” Kyle describes the smarter approach: 80% solid SEO fundamentals20% experimentation with new tacticsThis balance allows businesses to stay competitive without risking their entire marketing strategy on short-lived hacks.  If you put all your effort into shortcuts, you may see quick wins—but you’ll likely lose everything when algorithms update. Does Blogging Still Matter for SEO? The answer, like many things in marketing, is: it depends. Blogging isn’t just about stuffing keywords anymore. Instead, it should help customers make better decisions. Effective blog content should: Address customers’ biggest fears about working with your businessExplain how your process prevents common problemsEducate buyers so they feel confident choosing youDemonstrate expertise through real-world examplesWhen content answers real questions, it improves both the customer experience and your search visibility. Why Your Website Strategy Matters More Than Ever Many businesses try to save money by piecing together website tools or building sites themselves using drag-and-drop builders. Kyle explains why this can create problems: DIY website builders often lack advanced SEO capabilitiesBusinesses may not truly own their domains or dataPiecemeal marketing strategies lead to inconsistent resultsA holistic approach—website, content, reviews, and SEO—creates stronger long-term growthIn other words, your website shouldn’t just exist. It should function as the foundation of your entire marketing strategy. The Most Important Marketing Lesson At the end of the episode, Kyle shares a powerful question every business should ask: “If you c 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

    26 min

  5. 12 MAR

    Are You Marketing to the Wrong People? How to Find Your Moose

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Imperfect Marketing, I sit down with Kay Miller — sales expert, author of Uncopyable Sales Secrets, and co-creator of the “Be Uncopyable” movement. Kay shares how businesses can stop blending in and start standing out by identifying their ideal customer — or as she calls it, their “moose.” From her early days in male-dominated sales industries to building a brand around differentiation, Kay breaks down why strategy must come before tactics — and why chasing everyone often leads to serving no one. We discuss: Why Most Businesses Struggle with Their Ideal Customer The danger of trying to be “all things to all people”Why having business doesn’t always mean having profitable businessHow defining your “moose” clarifies your message and increases resultsThe power of focusing on the 20% that drives 80% of your revenueThe “Moose” Framework Explained What a moose is — and why you shouldn’t waste time chasing squirrelsHow to identify customers who bring both revenue and long-term valueWhy some audiences may look ideal but lack motivation to buyWhen and how to pivot if you’ve targeted the wrong marketStrategy Before Tactics Why sending a mailing without clear strategy is a mistakeThe temptation to “just do something” in marketingHow to evaluate your ideal customer through a dollars-and-cents lensWhy profitability and alignment matter more than volumeThe Power of Offline & Differentiation Why physical, offline marketing stands out more than everHow targeted “shock and awe” packages can create major ROIWhy branding goes beyond your product or serviceHow to position yourself as uncopyable — even in crowded marketsKey Takeaways for Marketers Start with strategy, not tactics.Define your ideal customer before refining your offer.Being different is not optional — it’s essential.The right customers make your business more profitable and more enjoyable.Marketing works best when it’s aligned, intentional, and focused.Whether you’re just starting your business or re-evaluating your direction, this episode is a reminder to pause, reassess, and ask: Who is my moose — and am I actually speaking to them? If you’re ready to stop blending in and start building a business that’s truly uncopyable, this conversation is for you. Tune in and rethink the way you approach your marketing strategy. Resources & Links Connect with Kay: 🎁 Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/millerkay/ 📌 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/millerkay/ 👉 Download: https://www.beuncopyable.com/action-steps 📚 Uncopyable Sales Secrets by Kay Miller: https://amzn.to/4ljeQA9  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

    26 min

  6. 5 MAR

    Is Your Brand Just a Logo? What Real Brand Strategy Looks Like

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Imperfect Marketing, I sit down with Rob Genovesi to unpack what branding really means — and why most entrepreneurs are getting it wrong. Rob shares his journey from corporate creative director to brand strategist, including the pivotal moment that transformed his business (and his identity). After years of layoffs and playing it “corporate safe,” Rob discovered that branding isn’t about polished logos or clever gimmicks — it’s about clarity, authenticity, and alignment. We dive into: The Turning Point: From Invisible to Impactful Why being “corporate polished” made Rob invisibleThe contractor client that changed everythingHow asking the right foundational questions led to real business growthWhy profitability — not just clients — is the real goalWhat Brand Strategy Actually Is (And Isn’t) Why a logo is not a brandThe difference between branding and marketingWhy “just posting on LinkedIn” isn’t building a personal brandThe foundational elements every brand needs: mission, vision, values, messaging, and ideal client clarityWhy Mission, Vision, and Values Matter Why mission fuels long-term motivationHow vision acts as your business compassThe role values play in building trust and cultureWhy these aren’t “check-the-box” exercises — and how to make them meaningfulThe Biggest Branding Mistake Entrepreneurs Make The danger of having one foot in and one foot outWhy inconsistency erodes trust (even subconsciously)How misalignment between visuals, messaging, and personality costs you clientsWhy going “all in” is essential to long-term successRob shares his biggest marketing lesson learned: There is no single “perfect” frameworkEmail, funnels, offers — they can all workStop copying someone else’s pathStay on your path long enough to make it workLearn, adjust, refine — and keep goingAs Rob says, success isn’t about chasing the latest tactic — it’s about clarity, consistency, and committing to your own journey. Whether you’re building a personal brand, rebranding your business, or wondering why your marketing feels scattered, this episode will help you refocus on what truly matters. Are you building a logo… or are you building a foundation? Tune in to rethink how you approach your brand. Connect with Rob: Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertgenovesi/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertgenovesi/ 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

    29 min

  7. 26 FEB

    How a Weekend Book Became My Best Marketing Asset

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Imperfect Marketing, I break down how writing a short, imperfect book became one of the most powerful credibility and lead-generation tools in my business—without aggressive promotion or chasing speaking gigs. I share the real story behind my book Mastering AI and Communications and how it quietly opened doors to speaking, training, and workshop opportunities I never pitched for. We talk honestly about what worked, what I’d absolutely do differently, and how you can use content you already have to create a book that works for you long after it’s published We cover: How a Book Becomes a Silent Sales Tool Why my book landed speaking gigs without cold pitchingHow a physical book creates instant credibility—even if it’s not readThe psychology behind why authors are trusted faster than “experts” without booksUsing AI to Write Faster (Without Losing Your Voice) How I used AI to assist—not replace—the writing processRepurposing podcasts, workshops, emails, and trainings into book contentWhy AI helped me write the book in weeks instead of monthsThe Real Value of a Short, Imperfect Book Why your book doesn’t need to be long—or a bestseller—to be effectiveHow a short book can outperform blogs, white papers, and lead magnetsWhy perfectionism is often the biggest thing standing in the wayWhat I’d Do Differently Next Time Why I’d take more time (and hire an editor)What I learned about publishing, design, and launch strategyHow I’d approach a second edition with clearer goalsKey Takeaways for Business Owners & Experts Why credibility compounds when your content is tangibleHow books differentiate you in crowded speaking and consulting marketsThe importance of creating marketing assets that keep working long-termIf you’ve ever thought, “I could never write a book” or “It wouldn’t be perfect enough,” this episode will challenge that belief—and show you how to start small, stay strategic, and still create something powerful. If speaking, training, credibility, or long-term visibility is part of your growth plan, this conversation will help you see books differently. Ready to rethink how your content could work harder for you? Tune in and start looking at what you’ve already created through a whole new lens. 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

    17 min

  8. 19 FEB

    What Does It Really Cost to Self-Publish a Quality Book?

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Imperfect Marketing, I’m joined by Michele DeFilippo, founder of 1106 Design and a publishing industry veteran with more than 50 years of experience. We dive into the realities of book publishing—what most people get wrong, what actually matters, and how a well-done book can completely transform your business. From traditional publishing to self-publishing and hybrid models, Michele breaks down the landscape with clarity and candor, helping authors avoid costly mistakes and disappointing outcomes Why Most Self-Published Books Miss the Mark Why skipping market research is one of the biggest (and most expensive) mistakes authors makeHow treating a book like a passion project instead of a business asset leads to poor resultsThe danger of cutting corners on editing, design, and production quality Traditional Publishing vs. Self-Publishing vs. Hybrid Models Why landing a traditional publishing deal is harder than ever (and what publishers really want now)How Amazon changed publishing forever—and where things went sidewaysThe hidden downside of hybrid publishers that charge upfront and take royaltiesWhat “true” self-publishing was originally meant to be What It Actually Costs to Publish a Professional Book The difference between real editing and running a manuscript through GrammarlyWhy nonfiction books cost more to produce than fictionWhat goes into professional cover design (and why it’s never a “5-minute job”)Realistic investment ranges for publishing to traditional industry standards One-Stop Shop vs. Piecing It Together Yourself Why project management matters just as much as creative talentThe risks of hiring freelancers without knowing what to look forCommon problems authors face after using bargain services or template-based designsHow working with an experienced team protects both your book and your sanity How a Small Book Can Create Big Business Results How Michele’s 88-page guide became a powerful lead generator—unexpectedlyWhy books make exceptional lead magnets in an overwhelmed digital worldHow publishing can lead to speaking opportunities, authority positioning, and new revenue streamsWhy a book doesn’t need to be long to be impactful A Marketing Lesson That Still Holds True Michele closes the episode with a timeless reminder that applies to publishing, marketing, and business as a whole: Listen to your customers. Even when the feedback is uncomfortable—especially then. It’s a lesson that has guided her work for decades and continues to pay dividends today  If you’ve been sitting on a book idea, a half-finished manuscript, or the sense that a book could open doors for you—this episode will help you think about publishing strategically, not emotionally. 🎧 Tune in to learn how a well-crafted book can become one of the most powerful marketing assets in your business. Connect with Michele Defilippo: Website: 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

    24 min
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Join Kendra Corman and her guests as they provide small business owners and solopreneurs actionable tips and insights about how to do more effective and efficient marketing that drives results.

Information

  • Creator
    Kendra Corman
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    338
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Imperfect Marketing
  • Show Website
    Imperfect Marketing

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