The Truth About Social Ads

Jason Smith
The Truth About Social Ads

"The Truth About Social Ads" goes beyond just tips and tricks; it's your pathway to truth and education. Elevate your brand or your agency's operations, run ads more efficiently, and embark on a journey to grow and scale your business. From dissecting failed ads to uncovering the secrets of successful campaigns, we're here to guide you through the nuances of the advertising realm. Tune in to stay informed, inspired, and equipped with the knowledge you need to navigate the fascinating world of social media advertising.

  1. 3 DAYS AGO

    Pro Wakeboarder Shaun Murray Talks About How Social Media Changed His Career and Coaching

    In this episode of The Truth About Social Ads, host Jason Smith sits down with professional wakeboarder and four-time world champion Sean Murray to discuss how social media has transformed his career and the wakeboarding industry. From VHS tapes to viral content, Sean shares his journey through decades of evolution in content creation, sponsorships, and brand-building. As a professional athlete, YouTuber, and coach, Sean has leveraged platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and Facebook to reach a global audience—far beyond what was possible in the days of DVDs and print magazines. He discusses how businesses and athletes alike can harness social media’s power to grow their influence and income while staying authentic and engaging with their audience. Key Takeaways from This Episode: • The shift from traditional media (VHS, DVDs) to digital platforms (YouTube, Instagram). • Why authenticity and consistency matter more than viral content. • How businesses and personal brands can adapt to changing consumer behavior. • The power of YouTube for education, brand awareness, and monetization. • Why Sean left his long-time sponsor to pursue independent content creation. Sean’s journey proves that embracing change is essential for long-term success—whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or business owner. 🚀 Want to grow your business with social ads? Connect with Jason Smith and his team to learn how to scale with precision. “Social media changed the game—now we can reach people directly, no middleman required.” Learn more about Jason Smith through the following links: Facebook Website

    28 min
  2. Is SEO Important for your Brand with Tyler Lane

    FEB 7

    Is SEO Important for your Brand with Tyler Lane

    In this episode of The Truth About Social Ads, host Jason Smith sits down with SEO expert Tyler from Session Interactive to uncover the crucial connection between SEO, paid social media, and business growth. While many businesses rely solely on paid advertising for quick wins, Tyler explains why SEO is the long-term strategy that builds sustainable traffic, brand authority, and higher conversions. Tyler shares his insider strategies for making SEO and paid media work together, explaining how businesses can own their traffic instead of renting it. He breaks down the three pillars of SEO—on-page, technical, and off-page—and why content optimization, backlinks, and search engine-friendly websites are the secret weapons behind high-ranking brands. Jason and Tyler also discuss the SEO myths that keep businesses stuck, the biggest mistakes companies make with paid media, and the realistic timeline for SEO success. If you’ve ever wondered how SEO can make social media ads more effective, why Google’s algorithm rewards certain brands over others, or how a strong content strategy can drive more leads, this episode is a must-listen. Key Takeaways: • The biggest misconception about SEO and why it’s not just about keywords • How SEO and paid social ads complement each other for long-term growth • The role of backlinks, technical SEO, and user experience in search rankings • Why relying only on ads without SEO is a costly mistake • How brands can track SEO success without waiting years for results 🔊 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Truth About Social Ads—and if you’re ready to scale your business with the right mix of ads and SEO, share this episode with your team today! “Running ads without SEO is like pouring water into a leaky bucket—fix the leaks first.” Learn more about Jason Smith through the following links: Facebook Website

    26 min
  3. How Do You Know When To Hire An Agency To Help Grow Your Business

    JAN 31

    How Do You Know When To Hire An Agency To Help Grow Your Business

    In this special episode ofThe Truth About Social Ads, host Jason Smith dives into a lively discussion with agency experts Steve and Cassie about when hiring an agency is the best move to grow your paid ad strategy. Together, they tackle the big question: “Is it time to switch from in-house or an all-in-one agency to specialized experts?” With years of experience running successful ad campaigns, they share real-world insights into what makes or breaks paid ad success. Key takeaways include: • Why scaling effectively often requires specialized expertise. • The pros and cons of in-house teams versus hiring an agency. • Why “all-in-one” agencies might not deliver the best results. • The critical role of trust and communication in building long-term partnerships. • How understanding your MER (Media Efficiency Ratio) can revolutionize your ad strategy. This episode is packed with actionable advice, real-world examples, and hard-hitting truths about scaling paid ads. Whether you’re a small business owner or managing a mid-sized brand, you’ll learn what it takes to create a laser-focused, results-driven paid ad strategy that gets real ROI. Tune in to learn how to stop wasting time and resources on ineffective approaches and start scaling your business with confidence. Don’t miss this eye-opening episode—subscribe now and discoverThe Truth About Social Ads! “You can’t be good at everything. If you want results, hire specialists who live and breathe paid ads every day.” - Jason Smith Learn more about Jason Smith through the following links: Facebook Website

    37 min
  4. How to Craft High Converting Ad Copy with Hugo

    JAN 24

    How to Craft High Converting Ad Copy with Hugo

    In this episode of The Truth About Social Ads, host Jason Smith welcomes ad copy specialist and Director of Creatives, Hugo, for a deep dive into the art and science of crafting high-converting ad copy. With over 18 years of experience, including seven years with Spotlight Social, Hugo brings his expertise to the table, revealing the strategies behind writing ad copy that grabs attention and drives results. Hugo shares his journey from writing email and blog content to mastering the nuances of Facebook ads. He explains why Facebook ad copy demands a different approach—balancing simplicity, hooks, and a conversational tone that resonates with audiences. Listeners will learn about the critical role of research, understanding customer pain points, and creating variations to test and optimize ad performance. Key Takeaways: • The importance of crafting hooks that stop the scroll and spark interest. • How Facebook ad copy differs from other writing styles, such as blogs and emails. • Practical tips for using emojis and creative elements to make ads feel organic. • The value of research, audience insights, and testing multiple variations for maximum impact. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, marketer, or agency owner, this episode is packed with actionable insights to elevate your ad game. Don’t miss Hugo’s expert advice and Jason’s offer to share Spotlight Social’s onboarding templates. Ready to transform your ad campaigns? Don’t miss this episode of The Truth About Social Ads! Subscribe now to gain insider tips, proven strategies, and expert guidance from Jason and Hugo. Your breakthrough starts here—hit that subscribe button today! “Facebook ad copy is all about simplicity—if your audience has to read it twice, you’ve already lost them.” Learn more about Jason Smith through the following links: Facebook Website

    39 min
  5. Is Your Podcast Working For You with Dr. Jeremy Weisz From Rise 25

    JAN 17

    Is Your Podcast Working For You with Dr. Jeremy Weisz From Rise 25

    In this engaging episode of The Truth About Social Ads, host Jason Smith welcomes Dr. Jeremy Weiss, co-founder of Rise25. The conversation takes listeners behind the scenes of building a successful podcast agency and reveals how to create a business development strategy that generates real ROI. Jeremy shares his unconventional journey from chiropractor to podcasting entrepreneur, offering insights on networking, collaboration, and the power of giving to others. Listeners will gain practical advice on how to plan, launch, and sustain a business podcast that serves as a referral pipeline and positions them as authorities in their industries. Jason and Jeremy discuss the importance of consistency, how to identify the right content strategy, and why aligning passion with purpose is the key to long-term podcasting success. Key Takeaways: • The Power of Strategy: How a six-to-12-month podcast plan can transform your business development efforts. • Value-Driven Content: Why focusing on others rather than self-promotion drives engagement on platforms like LinkedIn. • Dream Guest Tactics: Jeremy’s “non-stalking stalking method” for securing high-profile podcast guests. • Podcasting ROI: How to leverage episodes for time savings, client relationships, and professional credibility. • Networking Gold: Tips on using events and introductions to expand your influence. If you’re ready to explore the intersection of podcasting and business growth, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and inspiring anecdotes. Don’t forget to subscribe to The Truth About Social Ads for more tips on scaling your business! “Podcasting is not just about downloads; it’s about meaningful connections that open doors to opportunities.” Learn more about Jason Smith through the following links: Facebook Website

    43 min
  6. Three Chord Bourbon - How Liquor Brands Can Work On Meta with Michael Nanula

    JAN 10

    Three Chord Bourbon - How Liquor Brands Can Work On Meta with Michael Nanula

    In this episode of The Truth About Social Ads, host Jason Smith sits down with Michael Nanula from Three Chord Bourbon for an insightful conversation about branding, scaling, and navigating the challenges of the spirits industry. Unlike other podcasts, Jason brings on a current client to explore their journey, providing listeners with a unique behind-the-scenes look at how Three Chord Bourbon has grown into a distinctive brand with a passionate following. Michael shares the story behind Three Chord Bourbon, a brand born from Neil Giraldo’s vision to merge the worlds of music and whiskey. Listeners will hear about the company’s grassroots approach to marketing, the power of authenticity in a crowded market, and how partnerships and creative branding have helped Three Chord Bourbon stand out. From overcoming the challenges of launching a whiskey brand during COVID-19 to leveraging Facebook and Instagram ads for targeted growth, this episode dives into the practical and personal sides of building a successful business. Key Takeaways: • The importance of aligning branding with a deeper mission. • How targeted Facebook ads can amplify a brand’s reach and engagement. • Why authenticity and transparency matter more than celebrity endorsements in niche markets. • The benefits of full-funnel advertising to convert curious consumers into loyal customers. • Insights into the creative process behind Three Chord’s standout packaging and collaborations. If you’re looking to elevate your brand’s marketing game or just love hearing the intersection of music and entrepreneurship, this episode is for you. Subscribe to The Truth About Social Ads and leave a review! Want to grow your business with impactful social media strategies? Connect with Jason Smith and his team for expert advice and proven results.  “Authenticity and genuine quality are what matter most in the whiskey industry, not celebrity endorsements.” - Michael Nanula Learn more about Michael Nanula through the following links: Website Facebook Learn more about Jason Smith through the following links: Facebook Website

    38 min
  7. 12/31/2024

    Let's Talk Audiences And Why Audience Segmentation Is Important

    In this episode of The Truth About Social Ads, Jason Smith dives deep into the critical topic of audience segmentation and explains why it’s a game-changer for successful ad campaigns. While it may not seem like the most exciting topic, Jason makes a compelling case for why audience segmentation is one of the most crucial elements in driving ad performance. Whether you’re running campaigns for eCommerce, lead generation, or any other business model, this episode is packed with practical advice for getting your ads in front of the right people at the right time. Jason kicks off by reviewing the concept of full-funnel ads—discussed in the previous episode—and explains how audience segmentation works hand-in-hand with this strategy. He takes listeners through the three stages of the funnel: Top of Funnel (TOF), Middle of Funnel (MOF), and Bottom of Funnel (BOF), detailing what types of audiences belong in each. From lookalike audiences built from high-intent data to precise exclusions that avoid audience overlap, Jason breaks down the nuances of targeting that can elevate your return on ad spend (ROAS). For marketers still grappling with the technicalities of audience building, Jason offers practical insights on using Ads Manager effectively to set up clean, non-overlapping segments. He also highlights common pitfalls—such as lumping different audience types together—and how they can lead to skyrocketing costs and poor performance. Whether you’re managing a $1,000 monthly budget or a million-dollar campaign, his step-by-step advice ensures you can make audience segmentation work for your business. In the episode, Jason also tackles the myths surrounding the impact of iOS privacy updates on middle and bottom-of-funnel strategies. Contrary to what some marketers believe, these stages of the funnel remain highly effective when executed correctly. Jason shares his tried-and-true methods for crafting audience lists, segmenting days for optimal recency, and ensuring personalized engagement across all stages of the buyer’s journey. Listeners will leave this episode with a clear understanding of why audience segmentation is indispensable, how to execute it correctly, and why this approach is far superior to relying solely on Advantage+ campaigns. If you’ve ever wondered how to better structure your ads for long-term success, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now to learn how audience segmentation can transform your ad campaigns and drive exceptional results for your business! “Top of funnel is all about reaching people who’ve never heard of you. Keep it cold, keep it logical.” - Jason Smith Key Takeaways: Reaching New Prospects Engaging Warm Audiences Converting High-Intent Users Exclude Overlapping Audiences Learn more about Jason Smith through the following links: Facebook Website

    22 min
  8. 12/24/2024

    Full Funnel Ads, Is It Really That Important?

    In this episode of The Truth About Social Ads, Jason Smith dives deep into the concept of full funnel ads and why they’re essential for any successful ad strategy. Whether you’re in e-commerce, lead generation, or any other business that relies on digital advertising, understanding and implementing full funnel campaigns can make the difference between lackluster performance and exceptional results. Jason breaks down the three key stages of full funnel advertising: top-of-funnel (TOF), middle-of-funnel (MOF), and bottom-of-funnel (BOF). He explains how each stage serves a specific purpose in the customer journey, from building brand awareness to nurturing engagement and ultimately driving conversions. Using real-world examples and insights from ad account audits, Jason highlights common mistakes brands and agencies make, such as over-reliance on Advantage+ campaigns and neglecting retargeting strategies. One of the standout takeaways from this episode is the importance of tailoring your ad copy and creative to each stage of the funnel. Jason stresses that speaking to a first-time visitor the same way you would a repeat customer is not only ineffective but could also harm your brand’s credibility. He offers actionable tips for segmenting audiences, crafting personalized messages, and optimizing the frequency of your ads to avoid overwhelming or frustrating potential customers. For listeners eager to level up their ad game, Jason provides a compelling case for why thinking like a consumer is key. He challenges traditional approaches, urging marketers to move beyond surface-level tactics and embrace a logical, customer-centric perspective. If you’re looking for practical advice to improve your ad performance and better align with your audience’s needs, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now to learn how full funnel advertising can transform your campaigns and deliver better results for your business. Don’t miss Jason’s expert advice and real-world strategies for scaling with purpose! “If you’re not using top, middle, and bottom-of-funnel ads, you’re missing out on the customer journey.” - Jason Smith Key Takeaways: Full Funnel Ads Are Essential Avoid One-Size-Fits-All Campaigns Think Like a Consumer Creative and Copy Customization Learn more about Jason Smith through the following links: Facebook Website

    14 min
5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

"The Truth About Social Ads" goes beyond just tips and tricks; it's your pathway to truth and education. Elevate your brand or your agency's operations, run ads more efficiently, and embark on a journey to grow and scale your business. From dissecting failed ads to uncovering the secrets of successful campaigns, we're here to guide you through the nuances of the advertising realm. Tune in to stay informed, inspired, and equipped with the knowledge you need to navigate the fascinating world of social media advertising.

To listen to explicit episodes, sign in.

Stay up to date with this show

Sign in or sign up to follow shows, save episodes, and get the latest updates.

Select a country or region

Africa, Middle East, and India

Asia Pacific

Europe

Latin America and the Caribbean

The United States and Canada