forank Marketing

forank

Welcome to the forank Marketing podcast with Leigh and Zoe! We dive into all things marketing—no fluff, just honest, actionable insights. From SEO and PPC to industry trends and real-world strategies, we share our expertise with a dose of humour and straight talk. Occasionally joined by special guests, we keep it real while helping you navigate the ever-changing marketing landscape. Tune in for a frank take on marketing success!

  1. FEB 27

    Episode #14: Is Topical Authority Still Worth Chasing In 2026?

    In this episode of Forank Marketing, we dig into one of the most debated questions facing modern brands and marketers: is topical authority still worth chasing in 2026 or is it time to rethink how visibility and credibility are built online? Zoe Ashbridge and Leigh Buttrey unpack how the idea of “owning a topic” has evolved, why simply publishing more content is no longer enough, and what actually drives trust, relevance, and long-term growth today. Drawing on real-world experience, they explore what topical authority really means in practice and where many businesses go wrong when trying to build it. The conversation cuts through the noise to look at how audiences discover information now, why depth and consistency matter more than volume, and how brands can stay visible without burning time and budget chasing outdated tactics. We also discuss how smaller brands can compete, what signals genuinely build credibility, and how to think beyond short-term performance when shaping content and marketing strategies. Ideal for: marketers, founders, content strategists, and brand leaders who want to build authority that lasts not just traffic that fades. Topics covered: What topical authority actually means in 2026Why content volume alone no longer creates visibilityThe balance between expertise, trust, and discoverabilityCommon mistakes brands make when “chasing authority”Practical ways to build relevance without overcomplicating your strategyIf you’re questioning whether topical authority is still worth the effort or wondering how to approach it more intelligently this episode offers clarity, perspective, and actionable insight. 📍Find us here: Website: https://www.forank.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@forank-marketing Zoe’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoeashbridge/ Leigh’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighbuttrey/ 🎙 Enjoying this episode? Show some love — like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes! Interested in sponsoring an episode? Get in touch at marketing@forank.com

    48 min
  2. 12/26/2025

    Episode #12: Our Freelancing Journey

    In this episode of forank marketing, we take you behind the scenes for a candid conversation on Our Freelancing Journey, the real story of how Zoe Ashbridge and Leigh Buttrey built their careers outside the traditional 9–5. Zoe and Leigh share the unexpected wins, the tough lessons, and the pivotal moments that shaped their paths as freelancers and, eventually, agency founders. From finding those first clients and pricing early projects to navigating imposter syndrome, setting boundaries, and learning what not to do — this is a transparent look at the realities of freelancing in the marketing world. We break down what makes freelancing both challenging and incredibly rewarding, the misconceptions many new freelancers face, and the practical steps to build a sustainable, confident freelance career. Ideal for: New or aspiring freelancers, marketers looking to go solo, and agency professionals curious about the journey that happens before agency life begins. Topics covered: • How Zoe and Leigh got started in freelancing • The biggest challenges in the first year — and how they overcame them • Finding clients and building a reputation from scratch • Mistakes made along the way (and what they taught us) • Tips for building confidence, clarity, and long-term stability as a freelancer If you’re thinking about going freelance — or want to feel less alone in your own journey — this episode offers honesty, encouragement, and plenty of hard-won insights. 📍Find us here: Website: https://www.forank.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@forank-marketing Zoe’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoeashbridge/ Leigh’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighbuttrey/ 🎙 Enjoying this episode? Show some love — like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes! Interested in sponsoring an episode? Get in touch at marketing@forank.com

    1h 11m
  3. 11/28/2025

    Episode #11: Marketing Audits Exposed

    In this episode of forank marketing, we lift the lid on a topic that makes many marketers squirm: Audits Exposed — The Secrets Your Marketing Doesn’t Want You to See. Zoe Ashbridge and Leigh Buttrey peel back the layers on what really happens inside a marketing audit — the blind spots, hidden inefficiencies, and misalignments that quietly drain performance while going unnoticed by teams and stakeholders. We explore why audits are one of the most underrated tools for growth, the recurring issues they uncover, and how transparency (even when it stings) can dramatically sharpen your strategy. From underperforming channels and misreported metrics to messy tracking setups and neglected customer journeys — this episode is loaded with unfiltered insights and practical recommendations. Ideal for: marketers, founders, in-house teams, and agency pros who want to understand what’s actually working in their marketing… and what’s only pretending to. Topics covered: Why every marketing team needs regular, honest audits• The most common problems uncovered during audits — and why they matterHow to spot misalignment between strategy, spend, and executionFixing hidden tracking, attribution, and measurement issuesUsing audits to create clarity, accountability, and smarter decision-makingIf you’ve ever wondered what a marketing audit would reveal — or want to tighten up your strategy before small issues become expensive ones — this episode is for you. 📍Find us here: Website: https://www.forank.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@forank-marketing Zoe’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoeashbridge/ Leigh’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighbuttrey/ 🎙 Enjoying this episode? Show some love — like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes! Interested in sponsoring an episode? Get in touch at marketing@forank.com

    47 min
  4. 10/31/2025

    Episode #10: Marketing: Lessons in Failures

    In this episode of forank marketing, we dive into a refreshingly honest theme: Marketing: Lessons in Failures. Zoe Ashbridge and Leigh Buttrey open up about the campaigns that didn’t go to plan — and why those moments often lead to the biggest breakthroughs in marketing.   We unpack why failure is such a powerful teacher, the most common reasons campaigns flop, and how to turn setbacks into strategic wins. From misjudged targeting and overcomplicated funnels to lessons in testing, measurement, and mindset — this episode is packed with real-world insights and practical advice.   Ideal for: marketers, founders, and agency professionals who know that great marketing comes from experimentation, not perfection.   Topics covered:• Why failure is a vital part of the marketing process• Common campaign mistakes and what they teach us• How to frame failures constructively with clients and teams• Turning failed tests into future wins• Building a “fail smarter” culture in your marketing   If you’ve ever launched a campaign that didn’t quite land — or want to learn how to turn missteps into momentum — this episode is for you.   📍Find us here:Website: www.forank.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@forank-marketingZoe’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoeashbridge/Leigh’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighbuttrey/   🎙 Enjoying this episode?Show some love — like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes! Interested in sponsoring an episode? Get in touch at marketing@forank.com

    52 min
  5. 09/26/2025

    Episode #9: Impact Marketing: Strategies for Charities and Non-Profits

    In this episode of forank marketing, we dive into a powerful theme: impact marketing for charities and non-profits. Zoe Ashbridge and Leigh Buttrey are joined by Tom Pratt, Director at Albert Road Consulting, to explore how mission-driven organisations can build campaigns that inspire action, maximise limited budgets, and genuinely make a difference in the world. We unpack what impact marketing really means — aligning every message with a mission-driven outcome, balancing emotional storytelling with measurable results, and building trust that keeps supporters engaged long-term. From the challenges of donor retention to the opportunities of multi-channel storytelling, this conversation is packed with strategies you can put into practice straight away. Ideal for: charity leaders, non-profit marketers, fundraisers, and anyone working to create campaigns that go beyond awareness and drive real change. Topics covered: • What impact marketing is and why it matters • Building emotional connection before asking for support • Why measuring impact is so challenging (and how to do it better) • Planning campaigns that work with limited resources • Practical tips from Tom, Zoe, and Leigh on maximising impact If you’ve ever struggled to prove the value of your charity marketing, or wondered how to achieve more with less, this episode is for you. 📍Find us here: Website: www.forank.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@forank-marketing Zoe’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoeashbridge/ Leigh’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighbuttrey/ Tom’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrtompratt 🎙 Enjoying this episode? Show some love: like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes! Interested in sponsoring an episode? Get in touch at marketing@forank.com

    59 min
  6. 08/29/2025

    Episode #8 - Why Marketing Isn't Linear

    In this episode of forank marketing, we unpack a hard truth: marketing isn’t linear.   Zoe Ashbridge and Leigh Buttrey are joined by Chris Nightingale, Performance Marketing Specialist at Can-Do Marketing, to explore why leads don’t follow a perfect funnel, why attribution isn’t as simple as it looks in reports, and why expecting instant ROI from a single campaign is a fast track to disappointment.   We break down how real marketing works—layered, messy, and full of touchpoints that rarely follow a straight line. Whether you're running ads, building organic content, or nurturing leads through email, understanding this non-linear journey will help you make smarter, more sustainable marketing decisions.   Ideal for: marketers, founders, and in-house teams juggling long sales cycles and complex customer journeys.   Topics covered: Why most buyers don’t convert after one touchThe role of dark social and unseen influenceHow to communicate the value of long-term marketingRethinking attribution and reportingIf you've ever struggled to explain why your marketing efforts are working even when the data doesn’t show it clearly, this episode is for you.   📍Find us here: Website: ⁠[www.forank.com]⁠www.forank.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@forank-marketing⁠ Zoe's LinkedIn:⁠ ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoeashbridge/⁠ ⁠⁠Leigh's LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighbuttrey/⁠⁠ ⁠ Chris’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisnightingale/   🎙 Enjoying this episode? Show some love: like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes!   Interested in sponsoring an episode? Get in touch at ⁠⁠marketing@forank.com

    1h 13m
  7. 07/25/2025

    Episode #7 - Hiring Marketing Freelancers, Yay or Nay?

    In this episode of forank marketing, we tackle the big question: Hiring freelancers, Yay or Nay? Zoe Ashbridge and Leigh Buttrey are joined by special guest Louis Smith to unpack the pros and cons of working with freelancers versus in-house teams or agencies. From cost effectiveness and flexibility to quality control and communication challenges, we share real world insights to help you make the right choice for your business. You’ll learn when freelancers are a game changer, when they might fall short, and how to set yourself up for success if you do hire them. Ideal for: founders, marketing managers, and business owners navigating resource decisions. Topics covered: The true cost of hiring freelancersWhen to go freelance vs. agency vs. in-houseHow to vet and manage freelancers effectivelyCommon mistakes to avoid If you’re considering freelancers for your next project or wondering if they’re the right fit for your marketing strategy, this episode is packed with practical advice you can use right away. 📍Find us here: Website: ⁠www.forank.com YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@forank-marketing Zoe's LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoeashbridge/ ⁠⁠Leigh's LinkedIn: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/leighbuttrey/⁠⁠ Louis' LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-smith-b968a5b5/ 🎙 Enjoying this episode? Show some love: like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes! Interested in sponsoring an episode? Get in touch at ⁠⁠marketing@forank.com

    57 min

Ratings & Reviews

About

Welcome to the forank Marketing podcast with Leigh and Zoe! We dive into all things marketing—no fluff, just honest, actionable insights. From SEO and PPC to industry trends and real-world strategies, we share our expertise with a dose of humour and straight talk. Occasionally joined by special guests, we keep it real while helping you navigate the ever-changing marketing landscape. Tune in for a frank take on marketing success!