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.
Meta’s AI Spending Spikes But There’s No Product
By Vicky Sidler | Published 21 November 2025 at 12:00 GMT+2
If you’ve ever thrown money at a problem hoping it would sort itself out, you’re in good company. Meta just spent $20 billion trying to stay ahead in AI. Investors, however, aren’t buying it.
In the company’s latest earnings call, Mark Zuckerberg laid out a bold vision for Meta’s AI future. Think next-gen data centers. A billion users for Meta AI. Promises of “frontier models” with “novel capabilities.”
What he didn’t lay out was a product roadmap. Or any revenue to go with it.
And that’s where things got messy.
According to a report by Russell Brandom, Meta’s operating expenses jumped by $7 billion compared to last year. Capital expenses jumped nearly $20 billion. The bulk of it went to AI research, hiring, and infrastructure. But when asked what the money had actually produced, the answers were vague.
Zuckerberg mentioned a few tools — the Meta AI assistant, a video generator called Vibes, and some smart glasses named Vanguard — but nothing with clear commercial traction.
Investors were not impressed. By Friday, Meta’s share price had dropped 12 percent. That’s a $200 billion loss in value.
Basically, the math doesn’t math.
TL;DR:
Meta spent $20B this quarter on AI infrastructure and talent
But there’s no breakout AI product generating revenue yet
Investors are nervous, stock is down $200B
Meta is making bold promises without clear delivery timelines
Small businesses should focus on clarity before chasing tech trends
👉 Need help getting your message right? Download the 5-Minute Marketing Fix
Table of Contents:
Meta’s AI Spending Spikes But There’s No Product
AI Infrastructure Is Not a Product:
Everyone’s Spending. But Not Everyone’s Losing Value:
For Small Businesses, This Is a Wake-Up Call:
Don’t Let the AI Hype Distract You From Strategy:
1. Confused Messaging is Costing You Leads
2. Most Small Businesses Waste Money Trying to Reach Everyone
3. Turn One Piece of Content Into Ten
4. The Marketing Hourglass Helps Small Businesses Build Loyal Customers
5. Here’s How to Spot Your Best Clients, Avoid the Worst
FAQs on Meta's AI Spending and Small Business Takeaways
1. Why did Meta’s stock drop if the company is still profitable?
2. What’s the problem with Meta’s current AI tools?
3. How is Meta’s AI strategy different from companies like OpenAI or Google?
4. What’s the takeaway for small businesses?
5. Should small businesses invest in AI tools?
AI Infrastructure Is Not a Product:
To be fair, Meta’s ambition is real. Zuckerberg says the company is building models that will set them apart from everyone else in the market. He talks about business use cases, smarter ad targeting, and content tools that haven’t been launched yet.
But this wasn’t a product announcement. It was an earnings call. And when you spend billions without a clear return, people start to ask questions.
Even Zuckerberg admitted there’s “more to share in the coming months.” That’s not a plan. That’s a placeholder.
Everyone’s Spending. But Not Everyone’s Losing Value:
Meta isn’t the only company pouring money into AI. Google, Nvidia, and OpenAI are spending big too. The difference is that they’re shipping. OpenAI’s ChatGPT is already pulling in $20 billion a year. Google and Nvidia had strong quarters because their products are already driving returns.
Meta, by contrast, is still talking about what’s coming.
That gap between promise and product is what rattled Wall Street.
For Small Businesses, This Is a Wake-Up Call:
If a company with three billion users and unlimited resources can lose trust by failing to connect its spend to a product, what does that mean for small businesses?
It means your tech doesn’t matter unless it helps solve a problem. Your marketing doesn’t matter unless it’s clear. And your strategy doesn’t matter unless it leads somewhere specific.
Zuckerberg is betting on a future that hasn’t arrived. That’s fine when you’ve got billions in the bank. But most small businesses don’t have that kind of buffer.
What you do have is the ability to act quickly, communicate clearly, and stay grounded in real customer needs.
Don’t Let the AI Hype Distract You From Strategy:
There’s nothing wrong with exploring AI tools. Just don’t do it because you feel left behind. Do it because it supports a message that’s already working.
Start with your story. Then choose the tech. Not the other way around.
The best place to begin? A one-liner that explains what you do and why it matters.
My 5-Minute Marketing Fix can help you get yours in five minutes or less.
Because while Meta waits to figure out what it’s selling, you’ve got a business to grow.
Related Articles:
1. Confused Messaging is Costing You Leads
Meta’s AI update felt like a TED Talk without a takeaway. This article breaks down how to fix vague messaging using the StoryBrand framework so your business doesn’t fall into the same trap.
2. Most Small Businesses Waste Money Trying to Reach Everyone
While Meta builds everything for everyone, this post shows why narrowing your target market is what actually drives growth. Spoiler: focus beats scale.
3. Turn One Piece of Content Into Ten
Meta spent billions and still can’t explain the payoff. This guide shows how to squeeze results out of a single idea so you don’t need a data center to get attention.
4. The Marketing Hourglass Helps Small Businesses Build Loyal Customers
Tired of vague promises? This article outlines a step-by-step customer journey so you can deliver real value at every stage—not just say “more is coming soon.”
5. Here’s How to Spot Your Best Clients, Avoid the Worst
Zuckerberg is chasing superintelligence. You just need super-fit clients. This post teaches you how to identify your best customers and stop wasting time on the wrong ones.
FAQs on Meta's AI Spending and Small Business Takeaways
1. Why did Meta’s stock drop if the company is still profitable?
Because investors weren’t convinced the AI spending would lead to actual products or revenue. Meta earned $20B in profit, but with no clear payoff from its AI investments, confidence dropped—along with $200B in market value.
2. What’s the problem with Meta’s current AI tools?
Tools like Meta AI, Vibes, and Vanguard glasses are more experiments than market-ready solutions. They don’t yet solve real user problems or drive revenue, which makes them hard to justify—especially with billions in spending behind them.
3. How is Meta’s AI strategy different from companies like OpenAI or Google?
OpenAI, Google, and Nvidia are all spending on AI too, but they’re also shipping profitable products. OpenAI’s ChatGPT, for example, brings in $20B in revenue. Meta is still pitching potential, not results.
4. What’s the takeaway for small businesses?
Don’t confuse scale with success. You don’t need to spend big—you need to stay clear. A strong message, a focused offer, and a real solution will always beat vague ambition and bloated infrastructure.
5. Should small businesses invest in AI tools?
Yes, if the tool supports your message and solves a real problem. No, if you’re only using it to chase a trend. Always start with strategy—tech comes second.
6. Why does messaging matter more than technology?
Because even the best tools fail if people don’t understand what you do or why it matters. Clear messaging builds trust, and trust leads to sales—AI or not.
7. How can I create a clear message for my business?
Start with a one-liner that explains what problem you solve, how you solve it, and what success looks like. If you need help, try the5-Minute Marketing Fix—it’s free and built for small businesses like yours.
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)