Marketing Hacks Podcast

Just like you don’t need to be in the saddle every second to train a great horse, you don’t need to be on social media every day to grow your business. In this episode of Marketing Hacks , Amanda shares practical ways to market your business without relying on likes, follows, or endless scrolling. Discover strategies that actually move you forward from relationship-based marketing to local visibil...

Sometimes it’s not a lack of sales—it’s a lack of direction. In this episode of Marketing Hacks , Amanda MacDonald shares how to recognize the subtle (and not-so-subtle) red flags that your business is ready— or overdue —for a marketing tune-up. From stalled growth to a confused audience, we’ll explore the signs that signal it's time to realign your messaging, strategy, or support systems before t...

Ever feel like your marketing isn't working—even when you're running ads? In this episode of Marketing Hacks , Amanda MacDonald breaks down why it’s not always your ad spend that needs adjusting—it’s your message. Learn how to spot gaps in your brand clarity, connect more deeply with your ideal audience, and avoid the trap of throwing money at a problem that can’t be solved with Google Ads...

It’s been 10 years since Amanda MacDonald launched Full Gallop Communications, one of the first marketing consultancies focused on the equestrian industry. In this special anniversary episode of  Marketing Hacks , Amanda reflects on how the marketing landscape has changed, what she’s learned working across barns and boardrooms and looks ahead to what is next for her.

Hiring a consultant doesn’t mean you hand over the reins and walk away—it means you're adding a strategic partner who needs your insight to succeed. In this episode of Marketing Hacks , Amanda MacDonald breaks down how to make the most of your marketing consultant relationship. From avoiding common roadblocks (like disappearing from your inbox or rewriting every post) to building trust and sta...

Last week, the best riders in the world took on one of the most prestigious events in equestrian sport—and yes, there were marketing lessons everywhere. In this episode of Marketing Hacks , Amanda MacDonald reflects on key takeaways from the Kentucky Three-Day Event and what smart marketers can learn from the strategy, preparation, and visibility on display. From brand sponsorships and rider story...

In marketing—and in business—data matters. But sometimes, the smartest move you can make is trusting your instincts. In this episode of Marketing Hacks , Amanda MacDonald talks about those moments when your gut feeling deserves a seat at the strategy table. Whether it's a new opportunity that feels off, a brand decision that doesn't sit right, or a shift you can't fully explain yet, Amanda shares...

Let’s be honest—“value proposition” sounds like one of those buzzwords people nod along to without really understanding it. But when you do get it right, it becomes the foundation of every smart marketing move you make. In this episode of Marketing Hacks , Amanda MacDonald breaks down what a value proposition really is (in plain English), why it matters more than ever, and how to start crafting on...

Brand photo shoots aren’t just about looking good—they’re about showing up with intention. In this episode, I share my best tips for planning a brand shoot that feels like you . From what to wear and how to prep, to choosing the right setting and photographer, I walk you through how to capture the heart of your business—not just a flattering headshot. Whether your backdrop is a barn aisle, boardro...

Feeling overwhelmed by everything you're supposed to be doing in marketing? You're not alone—and this episode is here to help. Amanda MacDonald, fractional CMO and founder of Full Gallop Communications, shares a straightforward way to think about your marketing plan—no jargon, no pressure, just clarity. In this episode, you'll learn how to set meaningful goals, choose the right channels, and make...

It’s easy to get caught up in the ride—checking off tasks, responding to emails, putting out fires—but if you’re always in motion, you may be missing the bigger picture. In this episode, Amanda MacDonald talks about the critical shift from doing to leading —from constantly working in your business to intentionally working on it. Just like you can’t evaluate your horse’s movement while you're in th...

Feeling overwhelmed by everything you're supposed to be doing in marketing? You're not alone—and this episode is here to help. Amanda MacDonald, fractional CMO and founder of Full Gallop Communications, shares a straightforward way to think about your marketing plan—no jargon, no pressure, just clarity. In this episode, you'll learn how to set meaningful goals, choose the right channels, and make...

In this episode, Amanda MacDonald shares a thoughtful perspective from the saddle—exploring how the riding concept of a half halt can apply directly to your marketing approach. A half halt is subtle but powerful—it creates balance, focus, and readiness for what's next. And your marketing needs that same kind of moment: a pause to check alignment, recalibrate your message, and move forward with...

Welcome to Marketing Hacks! Bringing you short bites of marketing advice that you can instantly incorporate and those universal parallels between riding, life and marketing that will make you think.  My dressage partner, Grace, and I will be chatting to you (yes, both of us) while we ride together in real time. About Amanda - Growing up around horses has shaped every client conversation I have tod...