StoryBrand Marketing Agency
StoryBrand Your
Business Without
the Guesswork
We implement a StoryBrand-driven strategic marketing system that attracts, nurtures, and retains your ideal clients, so you can focus on what you love (which, let's face it, is probably not copywriting and marketing).
Clarify Your Message
Attract Only Ideal Customers
Focus on Your Business Growth
Struggling to implement StoryBrand?
Are you finding it challenging to create a clear, engaging StoryBrand BrandScript on your own?
Unsure how to effectively integrate StoryBrand into your marketing?
Overwhelmed with what steps to take after completing your BrandScript?
Frustrated with marketing efforts that don't resonate with your audience?
Struggling to focus on your actual business?
You have a great business, and you're excellent at what you do. But if you're caught up chasing the latest marketing tactics – from SEO to social media and more – you're losing time that could be invested in growing your business.
WHERE STORYBRAND MEETS STRATEGY
You deserve marketing that works
Experience the clarity and efficiency of a well-crafted marketing plan tailored to your business and powered by StoryBrand.
Transform your marketing with a StoryBranded message that cuts through the noise, ensuring your brand resonates with your target audience.
See tangible results as your business attracts and retains the right clients (seemingly on autopilot), leading to sustainable growth and success.
With a StoryBrand-powered plan in place, spend less time worrying about marketing and more time on what you love – growing your business, spending time with loved ones, and all that good stuff.
You deserve peace of mind
Grow your B2B business with our strategic marketing services.
Do you find the lead generation process frustrating and time-consuming?
Save valuable time and focus on serving your clients.
Gain the upper hand in your market.
Set up a strategic marketing system that attracts and nurtures your ideal clients.
Feel confident with a solid, strategic marketing plan.
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.
Hi, I'm Vicky Sidler
A StoryBrand Certified Guide & Fellow Entrepreneur
And believe me, I GET IT! I understand the frustration of marketing that just doesn't seem to work. I know what it's like to feel lost in a sea of tactics and strategies. When I started my agency in 2020, I was just a small fish in a big pond, trying to stand out from whale-sized competitors. (I’m also a qualified scuba diver, in case you’re wondering about these metaphors…)
Since then, we developed a proven, data-driven marketing strategy (powered by StoryBrand) that has helped both us and countless clients get noticed, attract the right customers, grow their ideal client base, and make an impact with their marketing and their businesses.
We boast a proven track record of transforming marketing messages to resonate with target audiences.
As StoryBrand Certified Guides, we apply the renowned StoryBrand Framework to everything we do with impressive results!
And as a Duct Tape Certified Agency, we’ve gone through an extensive certification process to offer you a holistic, systematic approach to marketing – a system that truly works.
You don’t have to do this alone. Together, we'll take your marketing from confusing to crystal clear. Let's make your brand's message stand out and connect with the people who matter most to your business.
I used the StoryBrand ‘one-liner’ yesterday for the first time to create some awareness on my various social media platforms. I have never had so many likes and interest on one of my coaching ads before. I am booking some consultations as we speak. You guys are amazing!
Tracey Clark, Business Coach
StoryBrand Services We Provide
Clarify Your Message
From US$1,500
Let us help you refine and perfect your StoryBrand messaging. We'll work with you to fine-tune your StoryBrand BrandScript, ensuring it resonates with your target audience and aligns with your brand's identity.
We even interview your ideal customers to get their point of view and make sure you've nailed it!
Learn More About Our StoryBrand Framework Consultation
StoryBrand Sales Funnel
From US$5,000
Specializing in the creation of the Marketing Made Simple Sales Funnel, we develop effective landing pages, engaging lead generators, and persuasive email sequences - all within the StoryBrand framework.
Install the full StoryBrand system into your business.
Learn More About Our StoryBrand Sales Funnel Development
Strategic Marketing Engagement
From US$7,500
Our Strategy First Engagement is a deep dive into your current marketing, where we’ll identify your ideal clients, map out your customer journey, craft a customized marketing plan, nail your BrandScript, and more.
Make sure you're doing it right from the start!
Why Choose Us?
Strategy-First Approach
At the Strategic Marketing Tribe, we apply the StoryBrand framework as our cornerstone, ensuring that your marketing plan has a clear and coherent message that speaks directly to your customers’ needs and desires.
Consistent Lead Generation
Kiss those unpredictable and mismatched leads goodbye. Leveraging the StoryBrand principles, we help you craft messages that consistently attract the right clients, ensuring a reliable flow of high-quality inquiries.
Save Time and Effort
Let us handle the complexity of crafting and applying your StoryBrand BrandScript. With our StoryBrand-focused approach, we streamline your marketing efforts, enabling you to dedicate more time to what you're passionate about – growing your business.
Gain A Competitive Edge
Elevate your business with a marketing message shaped by StoryBrand, positioning your brand as the clear choice in your industry. Our strategic, story-driven method ensures your business stands out to your ideal clients, giving you a competitive advantage.
Amazing! I needed help clarifying my message for my website. The Strategic Marketing Tribe helped me do this using the StoryBrand Framework. I can even use the BrandScript we made for the rest of my marketing material.
Matthew Van Neel, Lance Mvn
[Free eBook] 7 Steps to Small Business Marketing Success
Submit your info to download a copy of our free Book, which will guide you through the seven steps to build an effective marketing system.
How It Works
Here’s what you can expect when
partnering with us:
Book Your Free Consultation
Complete the form below and schedule a time that works for you. We’ll meet and talk about your business, goals, and current messaging.
StoryBrand Strategy Session
In our StoryBrand Strategy Session, we’ll dive deeper into your business to see what you’re doing now and where there are opportunities to integrate the StoryBrand framework effectively.
Start Applying StoryBrand
You get to keep all the ideas we come up with during this strategy session – absolutely no obligation.
Sign Up for Our Newsletter
Stay up-to-date on the latest strategic marketing insights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are our answers to the most frequently asked questions about marketing and lead generation.
What is StoryBrand?
StoryBrand is a marketing framework developed by Donald Miller that helps businesses clarify their message so it resonates with their target audience. It centres around creating a story for your brand where the customer is the hero, and your business is the guide that helps them overcome their challenges and achieve their goals.
How can StoryBrand help my business?
Implementing the StoryBrand framework can transform how you communicate with your customers. It simplifies your message, making it easier for customers to understand how your products or services can solve their problems. This clear communication helps increase engagement, conversions, and customer loyalty, ultimately driving growth for your business.
What does the process of creating a StoryBrand BrandScript involve?
Creating a StoryBrand BrandScript involves identifying key elements of your brand's story, such as defining your customer's problem, positioning your brand as the guide with a solution, and outlining a plan that leads the customer to success. This script serves as the foundation for all your marketing materials, ensuring a consistent and compelling message across all platforms.
How do I choose the right StoryBrand guide for my business?
Be sure to choose a StoryBrand guide who prioritizes strategy over tactics. A strategic-first approach ensures your marketing is built on a solid foundation, preventing wasted time and resources in the long run. Look for a guide focused on aligning your core message and goals before diving into marketing actions, ensuring your efforts attract the right leads and drive meaningful results.
Learn More about StoryBrand
and Strategic Marketing Insights
From the Strategic Marketing Tribe
Take a deep dive into the world of strategic marketing insights,
where you’ll find expertise to help your business thrive.
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.
Become the Next StoryBrand Success Story
In the world of business, feeling overwhelmed by marketing strategies that don't deliver can be disheartening.
At the Strategic Marketing Tribe, we understand that you might be unsure on how to effectively apply the StoryBrand framework and perhaps hesitant about investing in yet another marketing solution.
Our approach is designed to alleviate these concerns:
We offer a completely free strategy session that’s designed to help you with some great ideas for marketing your business. These ideas are 100% yours to keep – and there is no sales pitch to endure (not even a secret one).
What’s the catch? Well, if you’d like help with finalizing your StoryBrand Framework or implementing any of the tactics we discuss, we hope that you’ll consider us.
Best of all? If you’re not completely blown away by the work we do for you, we’ll give you a full refund. Sure, it’s a massive risk for us because we can’t undo the delivery once it’s been made, but we are so confident in the value our service provides that a guarantee is a no-brainer.
With our expert guidance, you can shift your focus from marketing worries to what you do best – growing your business, spending time with those you love, and enjoying the success that comes with clear, effective strategy.
Ready to take the guesswork out of your StoryBrand marketing?
Let’s get started
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!
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