Digital Marketing Therapy

Sami Bedell-Mulhern
  • 5.0 (14)
  • NON-PROFIT
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Digital Marketing Therapy supports nonprofits in raising more money online. Learn ways to utilize your website, social media, content and email marketing to support your online fundraising and retention efforts.

  1. Step by Step Campaign Messaging Creation using AI with Russell Van Broklen

    6D AGO

    Step by Step Campaign Messaging Creation using AI with Russell Van Broklen

    Are you spending weeks creating fundraising campaigns that could be done in hours? In this episode, I sit down with Russell Van Broecklen, a New York State Senate-funded dyslexia researcher and founder of dyslexiaclasses.com, to explore how artificial intelligence can revolutionize your campaign development process. We discuss practical strategies for using AI tools to create compelling, authentic messaging that connects with your donors and community. Finding Your Campaign's Universal Theme - Identifying the core message that drives your entire campaign - Using AI to refine broad concepts into focused, actionable themes - Avoiding jargon-heavy language that disconnects you from your audience - Creating messaging that resonates emotionally with supporters The Step-by-Step AI Campaign Creation Process Discover how to leverage multiple AI platforms effectively: - Starting with ChatGPT Thinking to develop your foundational concepts - Moving to Claude Opus for superior writing quality - Using specific prompts to guide AI through multiple revision cycles - Implementing a quality control system that ensures publication-ready content Avoiding Common AI Pitfalls We address critical considerations for maintaining authenticity: - Why rushing through the process leads to generic "AI slop" - How to balance efficiency with quality in your campaign materials - The importance of human oversight in the creative process - When to involve team members versus maintaining singular vision Building Better Campaigns Through Data and Iteration Learn strategies for continuous improvement: - Using results from previous campaigns to inform future messaging - Incorporating feedback loops to refine your approach - Balancing team input with focused decision-making - Measuring success and adapting your strategy accordingly Whether you're a small team handling multiple responsibilities or looking to streamline your campaign creation process, this conversation offers practical insights to help you create more effective fundraising materials in less time. Want to skip ahead? Here are some key takeaways: - 08:45 The Universal Theme Methodology Learn how to identify and refine the core message that will drive your entire campaign strategy. - 15:22 Platform-Specific AI Strategies Discover why different AI tools excel at different tasks and how to use them strategically. - 23:10 The Revision Process That Works Understand the specific prompts and quality checks that ensure your content is ready for publication. - 31:40 Balancing Team Input with Vision Explore how to incorporate stakeholder feedback while maintaining message consistency and focus. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how AI can help you create more compelling campaigns while freeing up time for other critical nonprofit activities. Tune in for strategies that could transform your approach to fundraising communications. Russell Van Brocklen is a New York State Senate–funded dyslexia researcher and the founder of **DyslexiaClasses.com**, where he has spent over a decade helping students transform from hesitant writers into confident communicators. His groundbreaking approach, *The Writing Method*, was developed by combining the brain research from *Overcoming Dyslexia* by Dr. Sally Shaywitz with the practical classroom strategies from *Strategies for Struggling Writers* by James Collins. This blend of neuroscience and pedagogy became the foundation for his research, later owned by the **SUNY Research Foundation**. Russell's students—many diagnosed with dyslexia or other language-based learning differences—have achieved remarkable progress, often improving their writing by **seven to eight grade levels in a single academic year**. He has presented his work at the **Everyone Reading Conference in Manhattan** (2006, 2014–2019) and the **Learning Disability Association of New Jersey Conference** (2018), sharing his mission to make literacy instruction brain-aligned, empowering, and practical. dyslexiaclasses.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-van-brocklen-2007ab87/ Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    36 min
  2. Creating Video Testimonals to Build Trust with Jonathan Schuessler

    FEB 24

    Creating Video Testimonals to Build Trust with Jonathan Schuessler

    Are you struggling to build trust with your donors and community members? In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Schuessler, a marketing strategist and videographer who has reached over 1.4 million users through authentic testimonial content. We explore how video testimonials can transform your nonprofit's credibility and help you connect more deeply with potential supporters. Overcoming the Fear of Asking Jonathan shares insights on: Why three out of four people say yes when asked for testimonials How requesting reviews actually increases referrals and word-of-mouth marketing Breaking through the mental barriers that prevent us from reaching out to satisfied supporters Strategic Interview Techniques That Get Results Discover practical approaches for conducting powerful testimonial interviews: The 10-question framework that puts the most important question at position six How to make people comfortable on camera, even with minimal equipment Using doorways for optimal lighting when filming with just a phone Maximizing Impact Across Multiple Platforms Learn how to: Create short, focused versions that capture the most compelling moments Repurpose content across social media platforms for maximum reach Use transcripts strategically to improve search visibility and AI discovery Building Trust Through Authentic Stories We discuss the power of featuring different perspectives: Testimonials from people directly impacted by your work Stories from recurring donors about their giving experience Board members and volunteers sharing why they stay involved Jonathan emphasizes that the uniqueness of any organization isn't in what they do, but in how they treat people and make them feel. Video testimonials capture this emotional connection in ways that written reviews simply cannot match. Whether you're working with a professional setup or just your smartphone, this conversation provides actionable strategies to help you gather compelling testimonials that build trust and drive support for your mission. Want to skip ahead? Here are some key takeaways: 06:22 The Psychology of Asking Learn why most people are happy to help and how testimonials create a ripple effect of referrals. 12:15 Strategic Question Placement Discover the interview framework that gets to the most valuable content naturally. 19:30 Equipment and Setup Tips Understand how to create professional-looking testimonials with minimal resources. 26:45 Repurposing for Maximum Impact Explore strategies for using one testimonial across multiple marketing channels effectively. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how authentic video testimonials can help your nonprofit build stronger relationships and increase support for your important work. Jonathan Schüßler is a marketing strategist, photographer and videographer specialising in testimonial videos and weddings. With his organic content structure he reached over 1.4 million users in his target audience driving sales through building trust. chuzlaire.com  jonathanschuessler.com www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-schüßler-marketing https://www.instagram.com/chuzlaire/ https://www.tiktok.com/@jonathan_schuessler Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    35 min
  3. Welcome to 2026 and Your Best Year Ever

    FEB 17

    Welcome to 2026 and Your Best Year Ever

    Are you feeling scattered by all the digital marketing advice out there? In this solo episode, I'm sharing some honest reflections on burnout, overextension, and why we took a break from the podcast. After 317 episodes, I've learned that sometimes stepping back is the best way to move forward with clarity and purpose. Finding Focus When Everything Feels Overwhelming I open up about: - Why I overcommitted and how it led to podcast burnout - The importance of choosing projects that align with your core mission - How small teams can stay nimble while maintaining quality service A New Way to Navigate Your Learning Journey Discover the game-changing resource we're launching: - A comprehensive spreadsheet organizing all podcast episodes by category - How to find exactly what you need when you need it most - Why implementation matters more than consuming endless content Staying Grounded in Uncertain Times We explore strategies for: - Maintaining strong foundations when the world feels chaotic - Building collaborative networks instead of trying to solve everything alone - Focusing on excellence in your specific area rather than spreading too thin What's Coming Next in 2026 Learn about our renewed focus on: - Website strategy and conversion optimization - Practical AI applications for nonprofits - Weekly resources through our revamped newsletter Whether you're experiencing donor fatigue, struggling with focus, or simply need a reset, this episode offers practical wisdom for moving forward with intention and purpose. Want to skip ahead? Here are some key takeaways: - 05:15 The Reality of Burnout Honest insights about overcommitting and the importance of sustainable growth strategies. - 12:30 Your New Learning Roadmap How to use our episode categorization system to find exactly what you need for your current challenges. - 18:45 Building Collaborative Networks Why partnering with other organizations amplifies your impact without overwhelming your resources. - 24:20 Website Strategy Focus Our commitment to helping you convert more website visitors into supporters and donors. Don't miss this opportunity to refocus your approach and make 2026 the year you implement rather than just consume. Tune in for a conversation that could reshape how you think about growth, collaboration, and sustainable impact. Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    13 min
  4. How to Use AI to Repurpose your Content with TJ Robertson

    08/26/2025

    How to Use AI to Repurpose your Content with TJ Robertson

    Are you making the most of your nonprofit's content? In this episode, I sit down with TJ Robertson, founder of TJ Digital, to explore how artificial intelligence can revolutionize your content repurposing strategy. We discuss innovative ways to leverage AI tools that can help you connect with donors, save time, and stretch your budget. Harnessing AI for Efficient Content Repurposing TJ shares insights on: - Creating a comprehensive brand guide using AI assistance - Developing a "brand ambassador" AI to maintain consistency across teams - Turning one piece of content into multiple formats for various platforms - Overcoming the fear of on-camera content creation Practical Applications for Nonprofits Discover how AI can help you: - Craft consistent messaging across different departments - Repurpose video content into blog posts, social media updates, and more - Streamline your content creation process - Expand your reach with multi-platform distribution Addressing Common Concerns We tackle important questions about: - Getting started with AI tools if you're feeling behind - Maintaining authenticity when using AI-generated content - Balancing efficiency with quality in your content strategy Building Trust Through Video Content TJ recommends practical strategies for: - Overcoming camera shyness and creating authentic video content - Leveraging short-form video to stand out in a crowded digital landscape - Using video to build trust with your audience at scale Whether you're new to AI or looking to refine your current approach, this conversation offers valuable insights to help you leverage technology in your nonprofit's content strategy. Learn how to create more engaging content, save time, and stretch your resources further. Want to skip ahead? Here are some key takeaways: 06:28 Creating a Brand Bible with AI Learn how to develop a comprehensive guide for consistent messaging across your organization. 12:47 Repurposing Content Across Platforms Discover how to turn one piece of content into multiple formats for maximum reach. 19:36 Overcoming Video Content Hesitation Explore strategies for creating authentic video content that builds trust with your audience. 26:15 Integrating AI into Your Workflow Understand how to incorporate AI tools into your daily tasks for increased efficiency. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how you can ethically and effectively utilize AI to amplify your nonprofit's message and reach more supporters. Tune in for a conversation that could transform your approach to content creation and distribution. TJ Robertson Meet TJ Robertson, founder of TJ Digital—an agency dedicated to helping small and medium businesses stand out in today's AI-driven world. With 16 years in digital marketing, TJ is passionate about transparency, results, and making sure clients show up where it matters most: in AI-powered platforms like Google, ChatGPT, and TikTok. Outside of work, he's a husband, dad of three, and a fan of board games and camping. Learn more at tjrobertson.com https://www.youtube.com/@UCXo0fazQabsLonrHH4t9fBg  https://www.instagram.com/tjrobertsondigital/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/tj-robertson-seo/ https://www.tiktok.com/@tjrobertson52?refer=creator_embed https://www.linkedin.com/in/tj-robertson-seo/ Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    31 min
  5. Mindset Reset

    08/19/2025

    Mindset Reset

    Are you feeling overwhelmed as you gear up for the busy season? In this solo episode, I'm here to offer a much-needed pep talk and share some powerful mindset shifts to help you navigate the challenges ahead. As we transition from summer mode to year-end campaigns, it's crucial to approach our work with renewed focus and energy. Embracing Imperfection in Your Nonprofit's Communications Let's talk about the paralyzing effects of perfectionism and how it can hinder your progress. I share: - Why minor mistakes in emails or social media posts aren't the end of the world - How to turn communication mishaps into opportunities for engagement - The importance of moving forward despite imperfections Harnessing the Power of Collaboration Drawing inspiration from recent marketing phenomena, we explore: - Strategies for creating buzz around your campaigns through partnerships - How to make it easy for collaborators to amplify your message - The impact of coordinated marketing efforts in your local community Staying True to Your Foundation When things get hectic, it's essential to: - Focus on consistent, foundational activities that drive long-term success - Avoid getting caught up in the comparison game - Remember that small, daily actions lead to significant results over time Want to skip ahead? Here are some key takeaways. 06:22 Turning Mistakes into Opportunities Learn how to reframe communication errors as chances for deeper donor engagement. 12:15 Collaborative Marketing Strategies Discover ways to create a ripple effect in your community through strategic partnerships. 19:30 Maintaining Focus on Core Activities Understand the importance of consistent, foundational work in achieving your nonprofit's goals. Don't miss this opportunity to reset your mindset and approach the busy season with renewed clarity and purpose. Tune in for a conversation that could transform your perspective on nonprofit leadership and impact. Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    13 min
  6. Connecting with Your Website Visitors with Abby James

    08/12/2025

    Connecting with Your Website Visitors with Abby James

    Are you making the most of your website visitors? In this episode, I sit down with Abby James from Nonprofit Megaphone to explore innovative ways to connect with people who've shown interest in your organization. We discuss how to leverage website visitor data ethically and effectively to grow your supporter base and enhance your fundraising efforts. Overcoming the "Creepy Factor" Abby shares insights on: - Why collecting visitor information isn't as invasive as you might think - How to approach outreach in a way that feels authentic and valuable - Balancing personalization with privacy concerns Practical Strategies for Engagement Discover actionable advice for nurturing relationships with website visitors: - Crafting a welcoming initial email that sets clear expectations - Developing a consistent communication strategy beyond the first contact - Using segmentation to tailor your messaging effectively Maximizing the Value of Visitor Data Learn how to: - Identify potential business partners and volunteers from your website traffic - Use visitor information to refine your programs and services - Leverage data for both online and offline marketing efforts Getting Started with Visitor Engagement We address key considerations for implementing a visitor outreach strategy: - Essential tools and platforms to simplify the process - How to involve different departments in utilizing visitor data - Setting clear goals for your engagement funnel Whether you're new to digital marketing or looking to refine your current approach, this conversation offers valuable insights to help you turn website visits into meaningful connections and support for your mission. Want to skip ahead? Here are some key moments: 05:40 Ethical Considerations Explore the balance between personalization and privacy in visitor outreach. 12:15 Crafting Effective Welcome Emails Learn how to make a strong first impression that encourages further engagement. 19:30 Data-Driven Decision Making Discover how visitor information can inform your organizational strategy and program development. 26:45 Building a Sustainable Engagement Funnel Understand how to create a journey that guides visitors towards deeper involvement with your nonprofit. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how you can ethically and effectively utilize your website visitor data to grow your nonprofit's impact. Tune in for a conversation that could transform your approach to supporter engagement and fundraising. Abby James Abby has been immersed in the Google Ad Grant world for over 5 years, holding various positions at Nonprofit Megaphone. Nonprofit Megaphone is a Google Certified Partner and manages more than 750 Google Ad Grant accounts for nonprofits. With her experience in managing accounts and background in marketing and development, she now consults with nonprofits every day on how to fully utilize this program and amplify their missions! Learn more at nonprofitmegaphone.com https://www.facebook.com/nonprofitmegaphone/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/nonprofitmegaphone Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    30 min
  7. Setting a Strong Search Engine Strategy for Long Term Growth with Steven Schneider

    08/05/2025

    Setting a Strong Search Engine Strategy for Long Term Growth with Steven Schneider

    Are you struggling to attract more visitors to your nonprofit's website? In this episode, I sit down with Steven Schneider, co-founder and CEO of Trio SEO, to explore the power of search engine optimization (SEO) for mission-driven organizations. We discuss why SEO is a crucial long-term strategy for increasing your online visibility and connecting with potential donors and supporters. Building a Foundation for Sustainable Growth Steven shares insights on: - Why SEO is like investing in your retirement account for your nonprofit - The importance of patience and consistency in your SEO efforts - How to balance short-term paid strategies with long-term organic growth Practical SEO Strategies for Nonprofits Discover actionable advice for improving your website's search rankings: - Crafting content that aligns with what your audience is actually searching for - Leveraging free tools like Google Search Console and Google Analytics - Optimizing your Google Business Profile for local nonprofits Measuring Success and Adapting Your Approach Learn how to: - Track your SEO progress using key metrics and tools - Identify which content is resonating with your audience - Adjust your strategy based on real data and user behavior Overcoming Common SEO Challenges We address potential hurdles in implementing an SEO strategy: - Balancing SEO efforts with other marketing priorities - Staying motivated during the initial "sandbox" period for new websites - Adapting to changes in search engine algorithms and user behavior Whether you're new to SEO or looking to refine your current approach, this conversation offers valuable insights to help you increase your nonprofit's online visibility and connect with more supporters. Want to skip ahead? Here are some key takeaways: 06:28 Understanding Organic vs. Paid Traffic Learn the difference between organic search results and paid advertising, and how they can work together in your digital strategy. 12:15 Essential SEO Tools for Nonprofits Discover free and paid resources to help you research keywords, analyze your website's performance, and track your progress. 19:36 Creating Content That Ranks Explore strategies for developing blog posts and web pages that address your audience's needs and align with popular search terms. 26:15 Optimizing for Local Search Understand how to leverage your Google Business Profile to improve visibility for local nonprofits and events. Don't miss this opportunity to learn how SEO can help your nonprofit reach more people and make a bigger impact. Tune in for a conversation that could transform your approach to online visibility and donor engagement. Resources Google Ad Grant: https://www.google.com/grants/ Google Search Console & Analytics: https://search.google.com/search-console/about SEMRush: https://www.semrush.com/ Ahrefs: https://ahrefs.com/ Steven Schneider Steven is co-founder and CEO at TrioSEO, an agency that helps B2B brands design and implement ROI-focused SEO strategies. Before TrioSEO, he co-owned a portfolio of 40 blogs, managed 400 articles monthly, and scaled to 7 figures via SEO – no paid ads, social media, or other strategies. Today, TrioSEO creates content that converts browsers into buyers. Their team manages everything – the process is 100% hands-off for founders and CMOs Learn more at TrioSEO.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/schneis/ Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    31 min
  8. Setting up Task Automations for Increased Productivity with Karen King

    07/29/2025

    Setting up Task Automations for Increased Productivity with Karen King

    Are you feeling overwhelmed by your nonprofit's workload? In this episode, I sit down with Karen King, founder of Gold Star Pro, to explore how automation can revolutionize your organization's productivity and give you back precious time to focus on your mission. Embracing Automation Without Losing the Human Touch Karen shares valuable insights on: - Why automation doesn't mean depersonalization - How to create personalized experiences at scale - Balancing efficiency with authenticity in your communications Streamlining Your Nonprofit's Processes Discover practical strategies for: - Identifying tasks that can be automated - Creating a roadmap for implementing automation - Leveraging data to make informed decisions Overcoming Common Automation Hurdles We address key concerns, including: - Maintaining consistency in your messaging - Ensuring quality control in automated processes - Freeing up time for strategic thinking and creativity Getting Started with Automation Learn how to: - Map out your current processes - Identify areas for improvement - Choose the right tools for your organization's needs Whether you're a small grassroots organization or an established nonprofit, this conversation offers fresh perspectives on how to work smarter, not harder. Don't miss this opportunity to explore strategies that could transform your approach to productivity and impact. Want to skip ahead? Here are some key takeaways: 06:28 Mapping Your Processes Learn why creating a roadmap is crucial before implementing any automation tools. 12:47 Personalization in Automation Discover how to maintain a human touch while leveraging technology for efficiency. 19:36 Data-Driven Decision Making Explore how automation can provide valuable insights to guide your strategy. 26:15 Consistency and Trust-Building Understand how automation can help you maintain a consistent presence and build trust with your audience. Don't let burnout hold your nonprofit back. Tune in to learn how automation can help you create more impact while reclaiming your time and energy. Resources Worldschooling Central: A community founded by Karen King, helping families educate their children through travel.: https://www.worldschoolingcentral.com/ The Escapepreneur: Another program by Karen King, teaching entrepreneurs how to design businesses that fund their ideal lifestyle.: https://www.theescapepreneur.com/ Karen King Karen King is a visionary entrepreneur, world traveler, and founder of Gold Star Pro—a platform and coaching program designed to help solopreneurs and coaches build scalable, location-independent businesses. With over a decade of experience in technology coaching and marketing, Karen specializes in simplifying business automation so her clients can focus on creating freedom, not just revenue. After leaving corporate burnout behind, Karen sold everything to travel the world with her family, embracing a "world schooling" lifestyle for nearly a decade. This journey inspired her to launch Worldschooling Central, a 13,000-member community helping families educate their children through travel. Now, she merges her expertise in business automation with her passion for freedom through The Escapreneur Movement—a program teaching entrepreneurs how to design businesses that fund their ideal lifestyles. Learn more at usegoldstar.com https://www.facebook.com/groups/worldschoolingcentral https://www.instagram.com/gold.star.pro/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-e-king/ Connect with us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-first-click Learn more about The First Click: https://thefirstclick.net Schedule a Digital Marketing Therapy Session: https://thefirstclick.net/officehours

    34 min
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Digital Marketing Therapy supports nonprofits in raising more money online. Learn ways to utilize your website, social media, content and email marketing to support your online fundraising and retention efforts.

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