Over the past 18 months, I’ve spent countless hours talking to small business owners—mainly local businesses—about digital marketing. These conversations have been enlightening, not just about the state of digital marketing but also about the mindset of the people who drive our local economies.
One thing stood out more than anything else: apprehension. The word I heard most often was scam.
- Is this a scam?
- You guys are all the same.
- Digital marketing doesn’t work; it’s just a way to take our money.
For many, the entire concept of digital marketing feels like a gamble where the odds are stacked against them. It’s not hard to see why. There are plenty of people in this space who are willing to tell small business owners whatever they want to hear, promising impossible results without accountability.
But here’s the other side of the coin: Small business owners are often drawn to those promises, even if deep down, they seem too good to be true. Why? Because digital marketing is complicated and constantly changing. It’s not just about understanding Google Ads, SEO, or social media; it’s about navigating a landscape where algorithms, policies, and paywalls shift at a moment’s notice.
When you mix that uncertainty with the vulnerability of wanting to believe in a solution, you create an environment ripe for distrust—and in an environment of distrust, scammers thrive.
Restoring Trust Through Integrity

We’ve all been burned before, and it leaves a mark. But what if the solution is as simple as this: Choose not to scam.
- Status: Become recognized as a go-to expert in your field.
- Resources: Build an additional revenue stream for yourself and your family.
- Meaning: Create content that transforms the lives of others.
Building Something Bigger
The digital marketing space doesn’t have to feel like the Wild West. By focusing on transparency, collaboration, and shared purpose, we can create an environment where everyone benefits—business owners, marketers, and the communities they serve.
If you’re ready to move past the noise and focus on building something meaningful, let’s connect. Media Mate is here to be the partner you can trust for this chapter of your journey.