This Lunch and Learn session focused on the theme of marketing for small businesses in 2026, covering various aspects such as public relations, organic social media, video marketing, local SEO, and the importance of storytelling. The panelists shared insights on common marketing mistakes, how to measure success, and the significance of customer engagement through reviews. They emphasized the need for businesses to understand their unique value propositions and to actively participate in networking and community engagement to build their brands effectively. Takeaways Marketing is crucial for all businesses, regardless of industry. Public relations should be integrated into the marketing mix. Authenticity is key in organic social media strategies. Video marketing can be utilized beyond just social media platforms. Local SEO and Google Business optimization are essential for visibility. Common marketing mistakes include lack of planning and consistency. Measuring success goes beyond metrics; it includes customer satisfaction and engagement. Storytelling is a powerful tool in marketing and brand building. Asking for reviews should be a regular practice for businesses. Hiring marketing professionals requires understanding your specific needs and goals. Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Marketing 2026 02:57 Understanding Public Relations in Marketing 05:50 The Role of Organic Social Media 08:53 Creating Effective Video Content for Business 12:03 Navigating Google Business Listings and SEO 15:10 Common Marketing Mistakes and Best Practices 35:03 Harnessing Word of Mouth and Earned Media 39:04 Measuring Marketing Success for Small Businesses 43:54 Building PR from the Ground Up 49:07 Leveraging Resources for Effective Promotion 53:56 Crafting Your Business Story 59:57 Navigating Customer Reviews and Feedback

Summary

In this episode of the Catalyst podcast, host Stuart Takehara welcomes Matt Bardocz, a seasoned creative director and entrepreneur, to discuss the essential yet challenging questions that business owners must confront. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding the foundational reasons behind starting a business, the evolution of passion, and the necessity of a brand refresh as businesses grow and change. Matt outlines a series of discovery questions that can help entrepreneurs clarify their brand's purpose, identify their target audience, and assess the value they provide to customers. The discussion also touches on the impact of competition, the role of AI in business, and the significance of building trust with customers.

Keywords

business questions, entrepreneurship, brand purpose, customer trust, AI in business, business discovery, Matt Bardocz, Long Beach Chamber of Commerce, branding strategy, small business insights

Takeaways

Understanding your business's origin story is crucial.

Passion for your business can evolve over time.

Identifying your brand's value is essential for success.

You can't be all things to all people; focus on a specific audience.

Building customer trust takes time, but losing it can happen quickly.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Live Stream

02:08 The Importance of Tough Questions

04:12 Discovery Questions for Business

09:53 Understanding Brand Type and Purpose

15:54 Identifying Customer Value

22:54 Understanding Your Customer Base

27:11 The Role of Competitors and Partnerships

28:53 Impact of AI on Business

29:49 The Role of AI in Business Strategy

33:07 Human Experience vs. AI

36:21 Building Trust with Customers

39:29 Rebuilding Trust After Loss

42:14 Understanding Customer Hurdles

46:35 Adapting to Change in Business

This conversation covers significant changes in California employment laws, including minimum wage updates, new regulations on wage theft, and the implications of AI on the workforce.

Audrianne Adams Lee discusses various laws affecting employers and employees, emphasizing the importance of compliance and awareness of rights.

The discussion also touches on the need for proper record-keeping and the evolving landscape of workplace protections.

Takeaways

Minimum wage increases affect various pay rates and require employer adjustments. Employers must provide notice of new pay rates to employees.

Judgments for unpaid wages can lead to significant penalties if not resolved promptly.

New laws allow employees to file claims for unpaid tips. Employers must prioritize rehiring laid-off workers when positions become available.

A new notice will inform employees of their rights regarding workplace issues.

The statute of limitations for harassment claims can be reopened under certain conditions.

Employers must maintain training records for employees for compliance.

Victims of violence have expanded rights to take time off work.

Paid family leave now includes designated persons for care.