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May 9, 2025 8 mins

What if you created a Connection Plan instead of a traditional Marketing Plan?

If the word "marketing" makes you cringe just a little—you’re not alone. I know many food business owners who do. And, I have a Marketing degree and I even feel the same way sometimes!

But my approach is different.

That’s why in this short and powerful episode of the Real Food Brands podcast, I’m flipping the script and asking:

Would you rather be marketing… or connecting?

In this episode, I share how a fresh mindset can help business owners think beyond promotions and tactical plans to build real, lasting relationships with their audience. Whether you're a B2B or B2C brand, this connection-first approach can lead to more loyalty, word-of-mouth, and long-term success.

You'll hear me share six key stages of the customer journey—each with insights into how your brand can move people from awareness to advocacy by creating genuine connections through your products, services, and the story you're inviting people to join.

If you're ready to build a food brand that stands out and sticks around, this episode is for you.

Ready to sharpen your strategy? Visit Email me at katie@realfoodbrands.com to learn more about how we can work together.

Let's go shake up shopping carts!

Katie Mleziva

Real Food Brands

Related Episodes:

122. Start Standing Out With These 4 Steps (Food Brand Strategy Blueprint Part 1)

123. Organizing All Your Ideas to Build a Cohesive Brand (Food Brand Strategy Blueprint Part 2)

124. Unlock Your Food Brand’s Full Potential (Food Brand Strategy Blueprint Part 3)

Resources:

RealFoodBrands.com

IG: @realfoodbrands

LI: let’s connect!

Real Food Brands Brand Checkup Scorecard

Real Food Brands Marketing Roundtable Facebook Group

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