StoryBrand Marketing Agency
Is Your Marketing Message So Confusing Even Your Own Mom Doesn’t Get It?
We're an award-winning StoryBrand Marketing Agency that helps Service Businesses clarify their messaging so everyone wants to work with you!
✓ Build trust and authority in your industry
✓ Connect with CLIENTS WHO ACTUALLY GET IT
✓ MARKETING THAT FEELS NATURAL
WATCH THIS VIDEO
If your message isn’t landing—and the right clients aren’t showing up—it’s not your fault. Most service business owners are great at what they do. They just struggle to talk about it clearly.
In this video, I’ll walk you through how we fix that using the StoryBrand Framework, plus how to get started with either DIY or done-for-you options.
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOUR MESSAGE ISN’T CLEAR
Can your mom explain what you do?
Can you easily explain what you do?
Can anyone?
If not, that's the problem we fix.
Because when people don’t understand what you do, they move on. You end up working harder just to stay in the game.
You’re always re-explaining yourself
Your website doesn’t convert visitors into clients
Your leads aren’t the right fit
Referrals become scarce
Marketing is frustrating as all hell
But it doesn’t have to be this way. A clear message makes all of that easier. It’s the difference between chasing leads—and attracting the right ones.
You might not believe it yet, but marketing can actually be the opposite of frustrating when you're doing it right.
MAKE YOUR MARKETING Simpler
Whether you want to learn the system or hand it over completely, the goal is the same: clear messaging that brings in better clients with less effort.
A DIY SYSTEM THAT’S SIMPLE TO FOLLOW
for weekly group coaching, templates, and a proven system that fits seamlessly into your week—without taking over your life.
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COACHING THAT MEETS YOU WHERE YOU ARE
Want someone to walk you through it? Get 1:1 or team coaching to clarify your message and apply the StoryBrand Framework to your business in real time.
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DONE-FOR-YOU MARKETING
Too busy to do it yourself? We’ll build your messaging, write your copy, create the assets you need, and handle your StoryBrand marketing—so you can stay focused on running your business.
HI, I'm Vicky Sidler
And I’VE BEEN WHERE YOU ARE
I know how it feels to stare at your marketing and think, “Why isn’t this working?” That's why I created a StoryBrand Marketing Agency.
All in all, your business isn’t just another brick in the wall—it’s something special. Your story matters, and I’m here to help you share it in a way that feels real, connects with people, and gets results.
As a certified StoryBrand Guide, I specialize in turning complicated ideas into clear, compelling messages that resonate with your audience.
With a background in journalism, I’ve spent decades telling stories that matter and crafting content people want to read.
I’ve developed a proven system to help businesses like yours cut through all the AI trash that's out there and build genuine connections with their audience.
Your story isn’t just important—it’s the reason people will choose your business. Let’s make sure it’s heard loud and clear by the people who need it most.
And sorry if I got Pink Floyd stuck in your head just now...
Hear Directly from DONALD MILLER
In this short clip, StoryBrand’s founder Donald Miller explains why clear messaging and a simple marketing plan change everything.
Donald shares why newsletters are back, what a full StoryBrand campaign includes, and how a certified guide helps you focus on what actually works—without wasting money or time.
Watch to see how working with a StoryBrand Certified Guide can make a measurable difference for your business.
EVERYTHING STORYBRAND, ALL IN ONE PLACE
Whether you need help with strategy, websites, content, or SEO, I offer the full range of StoryBrand marketing services—done with you or done for you.
StoryBrand Framework
StoryBrand Wireframe
StoryBrand Websites
StoryBrand SEO
StoryBrand Video
StoryBrand Copywriting
StoryBrand Email Sequences
StoryBrand Marketing Funnels
StoryBrand Workshops
StoryBrand Consulting
StoryBrand PPC
StoryBrand Lead Generation
StoryBrand
Social Media
StoryBrand Strategy
StoryBrand Content Marketing
StoryBrand Local Service
StoryBrand Coaching
MARKETING THAT DOESN’T TAKE OVER YOUR LIFE
Whether you want to build it yourself or hand it off completely, as a StoryBrand Marketing Agency, we’ll give you a clear message and a simple system that actually works.
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BOOK A COFFEE CHAT
This is a no-pressure, non-sales call where we discuss what’s working, what’s not, and where you want to go.
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CHOOSE YOUR PATH
Get hands-on support through the StoryBrand Course, 1:1 or team coaching, or let me build the entire marketing system for you—messaging, website, emails, and more.
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FIX YOUR MARKETING
Walk away with a message that resonates, a plan that’s easy to follow, and marketing that works while you sleep and finally delivers results.
COFFEE’S ON ME (OK, NOT REALLY)
But I'm serious about helping you connect with your audience. Let’s grab a coffee (on Zoom) and chat about your marketing goals.
Wondering how to simplify your message? Let’s talk.
Ready to stand out in an AI-saturated world? I’ve got ideas.
Just need clarity? I’ll help you see the big picture.
This isn’t a sales call—just a friendly, low-pressure chat. At the very least, you’ll walk away with some cool ideas you can try on your own.
SCHEDULE YOUR COFFEE CHAT WITH ME (VICKY) TODAY
FIXING YOUR MARKETING SHOULDN’T FEEL IMPOSSIBLE
Most small business owners aren’t marketers—they just want to explain what they do in a way that makes people care.
But when the message isn’t clear, everything else gets harder: websites don’t convert, leads go cold, and social posts fall flat.
You might worry that getting it right will take too much time, cost too much money, or feel like just another online course you’ll never finish.
That’s why I offer three simple paths: do-it-together support through the StoryBrand Course, 1:1 and team coaching, or done-for-you services where I build your full funnel myself.
You’ll get clear messaging, practical templates, and real support—so your marketing finally works and your business actually grows.
YOUR QUESTIONS, ANSWERED
We know marketing can feel overwhelming, and you probably have questions. That’s why we’ve put together answers to the things people ask us most.
What makes Strategic Marketing Tribe different from other StoryBrand marketing agencies?
We’re the StoryBrand marketing agency that skips the boring "corporate speak." We blend the power of StoryBrand with strategic marketing solutions to craft content that feels human, genuine, and impossible to ignore.
How can your strategic marketing solutions benefit my business?
Our strategic marketing solutions simplify your message, clarify your brand story, and help you connect with your ideal customers. It’s marketing that makes sense and gets results – no jargon, no gimmicks, just growth.
What is StoryBrand, and why does it matter?
Think of StoryBrand as a cheat sheet for marketing clarity. It helps you explain what you do in a way that makes people stop, listen, and say, “Oh, I get it.” We use it to create marketing that feels human and that your audience will actually enjoy reading.
Do I need to be familiar with StoryBrand to work with you?
Not at all! Whether you’re a StoryBrand superfan (like us!) or have no idea what it is, we’ll walk you through everything. We’re here to make the process simple, clear, and (dare we say) fun.
How do I know if this is right for my business?
If people keep saying “I don’t really get what you do,” or you’re getting the wrong kind of leads, it’s a sign your message needs work. That’s what we fix.
What if I don’t have time to take a course?
The course is built for time-strapped business owners. You get short lessons, plug-and-play templates, and live support so you’re never stuck or overwhelmed.
What’s the difference between the course and the done-for-you service?
The course gives you training, tools, and weekly support so you can do it yourself. The done-for-you option means I build your whole funnel for you.
How long does it take to see results?
Most people see clearer messaging and better engagement within a week of applying the one-liner. Bigger results (like leads and conversions) follow as you apply it across your marketing.
What if I’ve already tried StoryBrand and it didn’t work?
Many people try to apply StoryBrand on their own and miss key parts. This course walks you through it step-by-step, with real examples and live feedback from a Certified Guide.
STORY, MEET STRATEGY
Let’s make marketing feel less robotic and more real. Find resources from a StoryBrand Marketing Agency that bring your message—and your business—to life.
AI SEO Is a Scam for Local Service Businesses
By Vicky Sidler | Published 23 December 2025 at 12:00 GMT+2
You know a marketing trend has peaked when it sounds like a weight-loss scam. “Rank #1 in ChatGPT in 90 Days!” is the new “Lose 10kg in a week with this ancient fat-burning fruit.”
In a recent episode of The Marketing Mechanic, Dennis Yu—a former Yahoo engineer and founder of Local Service Spotlight—called out the madness. He didn’t whisper it politely. He said it straight. For local businesses like plumbers, landscapers, roofers, and electricians, AI SEO is nonsense dressed up in buzzwords.
TL;DR:
Most AI tools like ChatGPT pull from the same info as Google
If you’re doing the basics right for local SEO, you’re already feeding the AI layer
You can’t “hack” your way into AI recommendations without doing the work first
Those AI SEO tools making big promises are mostly selling hype
Real reputation still matters more than machine learning tricks
👉 Need help getting your message right? Download the 5-Minute Marketing Fix.
Table of Contents:
AI SEO Is a Scam for Local Service Businesses
What Is AI SEO and Why Is Everyone Panicking?
Let’s Break Down The Four Layers of AI Search:
Why AI SEO Tools Feel Like a Scam:
What ChatGPT Actually Said (Yes, He Asked It):
Why Google Is Slow to Embrace AI Results:
Stop Chasing Tools. Start Building Trust.
Put The Focus Back Where It Belongs:
1. AI Search Is Replacing Google Traffic Faster Than You Think
2. Storytelling Beats Coding in the AI Economy
3. OpenAI's $27B Loss Could Tank the Whole AI Industry
4. Ideal Client Profile: The Marketing Shortcut Small Businesses Miss
5. 10 Best Content Types for Small Business Marketing
Frequently Asked Questions About AI SEO for Local Businesses
1. What is AI SEO and how is it different from regular SEO?
2. Can I pay a consultant to help me rank better in ChatGPT?
3. Is AI replacing Google as the main way people search?
4. What kind of content does ChatGPT look at when recommending businesses?
5. Are there tools that can help me optimise for AI search?
6. How do I actually get recommended by ChatGPT or Perplexity?
7. Is AI SEO just a passing trend?
8. Should I be worried if I’m not using AI SEO tools?
9. Why do so many marketers push AI SEO so hard?
10. Where should I start if I want to improve my visibility?
What Is AI SEO and Why Is Everyone Panicking?
You might have heard the term “Generative Engine Optimization” or “AI SEO” tossed around like it’s the second coming of Google. According to Yu, it’s not.
At best, it’s regular SEO with a new haircut. At worst, it’s a productized panic attack.
The big promise? If you’re not optimizing for AI search tools like ChatGPT or Perplexity, you’ll get left behind. The truth? AI answers come from the same places Google already checks: your website, online reviews, social media, and local directories.
So if you’re already doing solid local SEO, congratulations. You’re halfway up the AI ladder without even knowing it.
Let’s Break Down The Four Layers of AI Search:
Dennis Yu describes the AI search model in four layers. Think of it like a lasagna of digital truth.
1. Reality Layer:
This is what’s actually happening in your business. You’re doing the work. You’ve got branded vans, real customers, real reviews, and a crew that actually shows up. None of this is digital. It’s the real-world stuff you do every day.
2. Information Layer:
This is the digital trail of your real-world work. Reviews, Facebook posts, your website, job photos, YouTube videos, and directory listings. These are the raw materials AI can see. If it doesn’t show up here, it might as well not exist.
3. Search Layer:
This is where search engines like Google and Bing try to verify what’s real. They scan those reviews and listings and posts to figure out who’s legit. Bing pulls from the same pile as Google. The only difference is the logo.
4. AI Inference Layer:
This is where ChatGPT, Claude, or Grok take that info and stitch together a friendly summary. Nothing magical. Just a stitched-up answer based on what’s already online.
So if you’re trying to “rank” in ChatGPT but you haven’t done the groundwork in layers one to three, you’re chasing smoke. There’s no AI shortcut around real-world trust.
Why AI SEO Tools Feel Like a Scam:
Yu doesn’t mince words. Many of these tools are just recycling fear. They prey on your FOMO. You’re told AI is the future, and if you don’t act now, you’ll vanish.
But these tools often promise outcomes they don’t control. You can’t rank in AI tools unless you’re already doing well in local SEO. There’s no “magic prompt” that will make ChatGPT suddenly favor you over the well-reviewed plumber next door.
In Yu’s words, selling AI SEO tools is like selling a bathroom scale that promises weight loss. The tool doesn’t do the work. You still have to.
What ChatGPT Actually Said (Yes, He Asked It):
To prove the point, Dennis asked ChatGPT: Who are the best tree and landscaping companies in Bloomington, Indiana?
The AI named a couple, then backtracked and admitted others were also good, depending on visibility. And when pressed on how it chose those names, it explained clearly. It checks Google reviews, directory listings, and public mentions.
In other words, if you look good to Google, you look good to AI. It’s the same data in a different wrapper.
Why Google Is Slow to Embrace AI Results:
There’s a reason Google doesn’t serve AI answers for every query. AI summaries don’t make money. Traditional search shows ads. Ads make Google rich. So they’re careful.
According to Yu, AI results only show up in about half of Google searches, and usually for simple questions, not commercial ones. That means if someone is looking for “best plumber near me,” they’ll still see regular ads and local search packs.
So you don’t need to worry that Google is becoming obsolete. It’s protecting its cash cow. Which means the local SEO basics still work.
Stop Chasing Tools. Start Building Trust.
Here’s what Dennis Yu and every good marketer knows:
The most important thing is doing great work. The next most important thing is showing that work online.
Fancy tools don’t matter if your reviews are weak and your website says nothing useful. AI isn’t magic. It’s just a mirror. It reflects what’s already out there.
Want to get recommended by AI? Then:
Collect real reviews from real customers
Keep your website up to date with clear, helpful info
Show up in the places your customers look (Google Business Profile, Yelp, Facebook)
Post useful content that proves you’re active and trusted
Do that, and AI will notice. Skip that, and no amount of software can save you.
Put The Focus Back Where It Belongs:
Local SEO isn’t dead. It’s just got a new name. Ignore the hype. Do the work. And if some consultant tries to scare you into buying a new AI SEO system, remember what your grandmother said.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably came from a guy selling magic beans.
If you want your real work to show up where it matters, start with clear messaging. That’s what people see first. And that’s what my 5-Minute Marketing Fix can help with. Use it to help you write one clear sentence that says what you do and why it matters.
Related Articles:
1. AI Search Is Replacing Google Traffic Faster Than You Think
While this article explains why AI SEO is mostly smoke and mirrors, this one shows how user behavior is actually shifting. It’s the full picture you need.
2. Storytelling Beats Coding in the AI Economy
Real-world trust beats AI gimmicks. This post shows why human skills like storytelling will always outlast short-term tech trends.
3. OpenAI's $27B Loss Could Tank the Whole AI Industry
Still feeling pressured to chase every new AI tool? This article breaks down the shaky financial foundation behind the hype.
4. Ideal Client Profile: The Marketing Shortcut Small Businesses Miss
Want to build real trust with your audience? Start by defining exactly who they are. This article shows you how.
5. 10 Best Content Types for Small Business Marketing
The main article tells you to post helpful content. This one gives you the exact content types that work best for service businesses.
Frequently Asked Questions About AI SEO for Local Businesses
1. What is AI SEO and how is it different from regular SEO?
AI SEO is a buzzword for trying to optimise your content to rank in AI-generated answers like ChatGPT or Perplexity. But those tools pull from the same sources as Google. So if you're doing regular local SEO well, you’re already doing AI SEO.
2. Can I pay a consultant to help me rank better in ChatGPT?
You can pay them, but it won’t change the facts. ChatGPT ranks businesses based on public data like Google reviews, directory listings, and your website. No special tool can override weak fundamentals.
3. Is AI replacing Google as the main way people search?
It’s starting to shift, especially for simple questions. But for buying decisions like “plumber near me,” Google is still where most action happens because of ads and local search results.
4. What kind of content does ChatGPT look at when recommending businesses?
It checks things like your reviews, online presence, and mentions across the web—just like Google does. If you’re invisible online, AI can’t recommend you.
5. Are there tools that can help me optimise for AI search?
Yes, but most of them don’t do anything new. If a tool helps you get more reviews, update your listings, or write clear content, great. If it promises to hack the AI algorithm, skip it.
6. How do I actually get recommended by ChatGPT or Perplexity?
Focus on the basics: collect reviews, keep your site updated, post helpful content, and make sure your business is listed in local directories. That’s the information AI is pulling from.
7. Is AI SEO just a passing trend?
The idea of AI SEO is trendy, yes. But the need to be visible online is not. Think of AI tools as new wrappers around the same old data. If your online reputation is strong, you’ll be fine.
8. Should I be worried if I’m not using AI SEO tools?
No. If your website is active, your reviews are good, and your local listings are accurate, you’re already ahead of the game.
9. Why do so many marketers push AI SEO so hard?
Because buzzwords sell. Many are repackaging old advice in new language or trying to profit from fear. Stick with proven strategies.
10. Where should I start if I want to improve my visibility?
Start with your message. Make sure people know what you do, why it matters, and how to take the next step. Download the 5-Minute Marketing Fix to get your message clear in one sentence.
Is your Marketing Message so confusing even your own mom doesn’t get it? Let's clarify your message—so everyone wants to work with you!
Created with clarity (and coffee)