That "Marketing Feels Wrong" Feeling? You're Not Alone.

Hello Reader,

Ever felt like the marketing advice you're getting just... doesn't fit? Like you're trying to wear someone else's favorite super soft hoodie? Yep, same here... (And this has literally been my job!)

A moment that’s stuck with me for a long time happened when I was working with one of my Spark Sessions clients (forgive me if you've heard this story from me before—I love to tell it), and they voiced this exact frustration.

It sparked something in me, and I blurted out:

"The system of marketing we're typically taught isn't designed for us to succeed."

Whoa. Was I being too frank? More rebellious than a real professional should be? But, thank goodness, it resonated.

Later, I realized it was more about the status quo of modern marketing and not just feelings.

Most marketing is built for a one-size-fits-all approach: grow grow grow; hustle hustle hustle; all that matters is that sweet, sweet stripe ding. And let's be honest, we're not one-size-fits-all.

So, I did something a little scary. I put this thought right on my homepage: "The status quo of modern marketing isn't designed for you and me."

And you know what? It worked. People connected.

After that, I asked some business pals what they'd say if they didn't have to worry about reactions. The responses were incredible. People sharing their core values, their desire for genuine connection, and the kind of clients they really wanted to work with.

It made me realize how much we hold back. We soften our messages, we try to fit the mold, and we lose ourselves in the process.

But here's the thing: since I started owning my own voice, inquiries are up—and I rarely have someone land in my inbox who’s misaligned. This is a powerful reminder that authenticity—real authenticity, not performative stuff we see on social media way too much—resonates.

I think of my friend Kerstin, whose newsletter has been full of powerful truths lately, and how it makes me feel seen and part of something. Or whenever I see anything from my business attorney Nequosha that’s guaranteed to make me smile and hear her voice saying it—even if I’m reading an email. These connections matter.

So, I have a question for you:

If you could ditch the marketing playbook for a moment, what would you really want to say to your audience? What message would you put out there if you stopped worrying about the "right" way to do things?

I'd love to hear your thoughts. Hit reply and share if you're comfortable. Or just write it down for yourself. Let it simmer.

Maybe, just maybe, it's time we all stopped trying to fit into a system that wasn't built for us.

Talk soon,

Sarah