This blog is based on a no-fluff conversation between Bethany Meadows and Casey Cheshire on the Time to Thrive podcast. Casey is a Marine veteran, marketing automation expert, podcast host of over 500 interviews and the founder of Ringmaster Conversational Marketing. He brings bold energy, straight talk and a mission to eliminate what he calls “disconnected marketing.” Here are the key takeaways that every small business owner needs to hear.

Disconnected Marketing: The Silent Killer

Casey defines disconnected marketing as the slow decline in performance caused by guessing instead of asking. When we rely too heavily on automation tools, apps and assumptions, we lose touch with what our customers actually want.

He says, “Disconnected marketing is just slow death in disguise.” His solution? Get back to the human connection. Have real conversations. Ask real questions.

Key takeaway: If you can’t name seven customers by first and last name, you might be disconnected.

Want Better Marketing? Start Talking

According to Casey, the cure for disconnected marketing is simple: talk to your customers. Forget the overcomplicated strategies. Just hop on a Zoom call, ask thoughtful questions and listen.

Whether it’s through a podcast or a strategy session, those one-on-one conversations bring clarity and insights that you can’t get from analytics alone.

Key takeaway: Stop guessing—ask, listen and adjust.

Podcasting as a Business Growth Tool

Casey doesn’t just talk about podcasting—he built a business around it. But his approach is different: he teaches clients to use podcasts not as a platform for self-promotion but as a way to build relationships.

He calls it “connection casting.” You invite your ideal clients as guests, shine the spotlight on them and build trust through the experience.

Key takeaway: A podcast isn’t about you—it’s a gift to your guest.

ROI Beyond Downloads

Think podcasting is only worth it if you hit 10,000 downloads? Think again. Casey breaks down the real ROI of podcasting:

• Direct revenue from guest relationships
• Referrals from happy interviewees
• SEO-boosting content from episodes
• Long-term brand trust and authority

It’s not about going viral—it’s about going deep with the right people.

Key takeaway: Even if no one listens, a podcast can grow your business.

Start Ugly—But Start

You don’t need a fancy mic, an editing team or a perfect strategy to start. Casey encourages entrepreneurs to “start ugly.” Hit record on Zoom, ask smart questions and improve as you go.

As he puts it: “More important than what you do with the content is that you had the conversation.”

Key takeaway: Start where you are. The magic is in the connection, not the polish.

The Email Marketing Reality Check

Casey also shared a few golden tips from his book, Marketing Automation Unleashed. His favorite? Don’t blend personal emails with company broadcasts. Choose one or the other and do it well.

He also suggests testing every email against the classic question: “What’s in it for me?” If the answer is “not much,” don’t send it.

Key takeaway: Email should feel personal, relevant and valuable—or it’s just noise.

Final Thoughts

Casey Cheshire reminds us that marketing isn’t about flashy tools or viral tricks—it’s about connecting with people. Whether you’re starting a podcast, writing an email or launching a campaign, the secret is simple: be human, be helpful and stop guessing.

Want to learn more from Casey?
👉 Check out The Hardcore Marketing Show
👉 Or email him directly at: [email protected]