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.
US Leads in AI but Lags in Internet Quality and Security
By Vicky Sidler | Published 7 December 2025 at 12:00 GMT+2
The United States recently got some mixed tech reviews. According to the 2025 Digital Quality of Life Index from cybersecurity firm Surfshark, America is officially number one in artificial intelligence development. But when it comes to internet quality, affordability, and online safety, the stars and stripes are sagging a bit.
If you’re a small business owner trying to do anything remotely digital, this matters more than you think.
TL;DR:
The US ranks 1st in AI and digital infrastructure globally
But only 42nd in internet quality and 36th in digital security
Internet is faster than Canada’s, but still pricey compared to places like Bulgaria
AI could widen the digital divide if infrastructure and laws don’t catch up
South Africa ranks 75th overall in digital quality of life
👉 Need help getting your message right? Download the 5 Minute Marketing Fix.
Table of Contents:
US Leads in AI but Lags in Internet Quality and Security
America’s AI Trophy Has a Wobbly Shelf:
Internet Quality? Not So Fast:
Security—Better Than Last Year, Still Not Great:
Affordable Internet Depends on Where You Stand:
South Africa’s Spot in the Rankings:
What This Means for Small Businesses:
1. OpenAI’s $27B Loss Could Tank the Whole AI Industry
2. Meta’s AI Spending Spikes But There’s No Product
3. AI Slop Is Breaking the Internet—Here’s What Small Brands Can Do
4. South Africa’s 2025 Data Breach Count Hits 369k—Are You Next?
5. Risks and Artificial Intelligence: What Small Businesses Must Know
Frequently Asked Questions About the US Digital Quality of Life Rankings
1. What is the Digital Quality of Life Index?
2. Why does it matter that the US ranks 1st in AI?
3. What’s holding the US back from a higher overall ranking?
4. What does “internet quality” include?
5. Is the US internet really that bad?
6. How does digital security affect small businesses?
7. What can small businesses do to improve their own digital quality?
8. How does South Africa compare?
9. Can I rely on AI tools if my internet isn’t great?
10. Where should I start if I want to improve my digital setup?
America’s AI Trophy Has a Wobbly Shelf:
Let’s start with the good news. If AI were a sport, the US just took home gold. Surfshark ranks the United States 1st in artificial intelligence development and in digital infrastructure, beating out Singapore, South Korea, and the UK.
That’s a big deal.
Good AI implementation can streamline routine work, improve public services, support jobs, and help small businesses compete with big brands. Add in the US’s top-tier infrastructure and it looks like you’re ready to dominate the digital world.
But there’s a small catch.
Internet Quality? Not So Fast:
Despite all the AI firepower, the United States ranks just 42nd in internet quality. For context, Kuwait beats the US in mobile speed, and Singapore’s fixed internet is 38% faster. America’s mobile latency (that delay you feel when your Zoom call freezes) is nearly double that of top-performing countries.
Here’s the breakdown:
Fixed internet speed: 336Mbps
Mobile internet speed: 241Mbps
Fixed latency: 21ms
Mobile latency: 37ms
Those numbers aren’t bad in isolation. But if you’re running video calls, cloud backups, live streams, or any kind of remote client work, those milliseconds add up. Your client in Finland might wonder if you’re phoning in from the moon.
Security—Better Than Last Year, Still Not Great:
Digital security is what keeps your business data (and your clients’ information) safe. And while the US has moved up to 36th place globally, it’s still behind Canada and only slightly ahead of Australia.
Worse, the country’s data protection laws are described as “partially adequate.” If that phrase doesn’t inspire confidence, you’re not alone.
AI thrives on data. Lots of it. If your systems aren't secure, or your country lacks strong privacy rules, your business becomes a soft target. According to Surfshark’s Chief Security Officer, the lack of effective data protection laws is especially worrying given how much sensitive information AI systems now handle.
Affordable Internet Depends on Where You Stand:
It might feel like your internet bill is too high. And you’re not entirely wrong.
Americans work 56 minutes a month to afford fixed internet
For mobile, it’s 1 hour 38 minutes
In Bulgaria? Just 11 minutes for fixed internet
In Angola? Just 7 minutes for mobile
This doesn’t mean the US is wildly overpriced, but it shows there’s room for improvement. For small business owners in rural areas or with tight margins, those extra costs matter.
South Africa’s Spot in the Rankings:
If you’re reading this from South Africa, you’re probably wondering where we stand. The answer: 75th overall.
That puts us behind Brazil and India, and just ahead of the Philippines. We’re not the worst, but we’re not winning any digital medals either. For South African business owners, this means managing expectations. It also means being extra intentional with the tools and tech we use to stay visible, consistent, and connected.
What This Means for Small Businesses:
You may not care about rankings. But you do care about whether your tech setup is helping or slowing you down.
If you’re:
Running virtual consults
Managing remote teams
Relying on cloud tools
Hosting eCommerce sites
Using AI to automate or assist with tasks
Then your digital quality of life directly affects your business quality of life.
And it’s not just about download speed. It’s about whether your business tools load quickly, your customer experience is smooth, and your data is safe.
What You Can Do:
As a StoryBrand Certified Guide and Duct Tape Marketing Consultant, here’s what I recommend.
Don’t assume your tech is fine just because you’re in the US or SA. Run speed tests. Check your latency. Talk to your ISP if things are sluggish.
Double-check your data protection practices. Even if the law isn’t strict, your clients still expect you to protect their information.
Use AI, but know its limits. It’s great for brainstorming, automating small tasks, or generating drafts. But don’t use it as your only marketing or decision-making tool.
Simplify your messaging. You don’t need perfect bandwidth to get your message across. But you do need clarity. If you confuse people, they bounce. If you’re clear, they convert.
Build a simple system that works even with average tech. Don’t rely on flashy tools that collapse the moment your internet hiccups. Stick to systems that are fast, flexible, and forgiving.
If you want to make sure your message is crystal clear even when your connection isn’t, start with the 5 Minute Marketing Fix.
Related Articles:
1. OpenAI’s $27B Loss Could Tank the Whole AI Industry
If AI feels like magic, this one brings you back to earth. It explains why AI success depends on more than just investment—and what small businesses should watch for.
2. Meta’s AI Spending Spikes But There’s No Product
The US may lead in AI, but that doesn’t mean results. This post breaks down why even the biggest players are still figuring it out.
3. AI Slop Is Breaking the Internet—Here’s What Small Brands Can Do
High AI rankings don't mean high-quality output. Here’s how to stay clear and credible when everyone else is publishing junk.
4. South Africa’s 2025 Data Breach Count Hits 369k—Are You Next?
With SA ranking 75th in digital quality, this article explains the real cyber risks and what business owners can do now to stay secure.
5. Risks and Artificial Intelligence: What Small Businesses Must Know
Topping the AI leaderboard looks impressive—until it backfires. Learn how to use AI responsibly while protecting your brand.
Frequently Asked Questions About the US Digital Quality of Life Rankings
1. What is the Digital Quality of Life Index?
It’s an annual global study by Surfshark that ranks countries based on five factors: internet affordability, internet quality, digital infrastructure, digital security, and artificial intelligence development.
2. Why does it matter that the US ranks 1st in AI?
AI is now a core part of business tools, automation, and communication. Ranking 1st means the US is leading in developing and applying these technologies, which can give businesses access to cutting-edge tools and efficiencies.
3. What’s holding the US back from a higher overall ranking?
Despite its strength in AI and infrastructure, the US ranks poorly in internet quality (42nd), digital security (36th), and internet affordability (38th), which pulls its overall score down.
4. What does “internet quality” include?
It includes fixed and mobile internet speeds, as well as latency (the delay between sending and receiving data). Lower latency and faster speeds generally mean smoother video calls, uploads, and cloud use.
5. Is the US internet really that bad?
It’s not terrible, but it’s inconsistent. Fixed internet speeds are decent at 336Mbps, and mobile speeds are 241Mbps. But latency is high, and prices are steep compared to other countries with similar or better performance.
6. How does digital security affect small businesses?
Digital security protects your business data and customer information. A lower national ranking means weaker legal protections and higher risk of breaches or cyberattacks—especially if your systems aren’t secure.
7. What can small businesses do to improve their own digital quality?
Test your internet speeds, reduce reliance on high-latency tools, improve your cybersecurity practices, and ensure your messaging is clear and simple, even on a shaky connection.
8. How does South Africa compare?
South Africa ranks 75th overall. That means slower speeds, weaker infrastructure, and affordability challenges. Local businesses need to be extra resourceful in how they use digital tools.
9. Can I rely on AI tools if my internet isn’t great?
Yes, but within reason. Use lightweight tools, save work offline, and stick to AI assistants that don’t require constant high-speed cloud access.
10. Where should I start if I want to improve my digital setup?
Start with a clear message and a simple, stable system.Download the 5 Minute Marketing Fix to get one sentence that communicates what you do—even if your Wi-Fi drops mid-pitch.
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)