006: “Marketing Doesn’t Matter If You Suck”: Real Talk on Product, Trust & Growth

Anne and Matt rip apart the illusion of modern marketing—where vanity metrics and fake reviews rule, and nobody fact-checks sh*t. They debate the ethics of “fake it till you make it,” explore why good SEO doesn’t mean paying an agency forever, and call BS on overpriced brand audits. Matt breaks down why most SEO tools are overkill for startups, and Anne challenges the idea of selling services she wouldn't buy herself. The takeaway? Build something real, or don’t bother.

🚨 Stuff You’ll Want to Remember:

• “Fake it till you make it” is standard—but it only works if your product delivers.
• Marketing tactics don’t matter if your service sucks. Referrals > reach.
• SEO is useful, but most agencies overcharge. Smart founders just create real content.
• Consumers can’t verify your claims—so ethics matter more than ever.
• Call centers, support, billing—these aren’t ops. They’re brand touchpoints.

💣 Sh*t Only Founders Say:

• “You can bullshit all you want. The market solves it.” — Matt
• “I stopped offering SEO because I wouldn’t pay for it myself.” — Anne
• “If your product is great, the rest is bonus.” — Matt
• “Don’t work for a shitty company—especially if you’re in support.” — Anne
• “Most one-star reviews? It’s not price. It’s billing, support, or trust.” — Anne

💬 Lines That Slap:

“Nothing is real—marketing, pricing, reviews. It’s all smoke.” — Anne

“Growth at all costs creates variables. Kill variables, and you win.” — Matt

“I think business is easy. Table tennis is hard.” — Matt

“Most startups could double revenue by just being findable.” — Anne

📡 Where to Find Us

• Anne → Fix & Form - LinkedIn
• Matt → ChipBot - LinkedIn