Episode 1: Ali Schwanke - Founder of SimpleStrat and HubSpot Hacks

Runtime: 44:36 Episode summary In this episode, Brian sits down with Ali Schwanke (SimpleStrat) to talk about building a real business outside the big-city bubble—using practical systems for content, marketing, and sales. Ali shares what actually moves the needle, what most founders overcomplicate, and how to create a realistic “exit plan” from Corporate America through consistent traction. What you’ll learn How to turn content into a customer-generating system (not just “posting”) Where most founders waste time in marketing—and what to do instead Simple ways to align sales + marketing so revenue isn’t accidental What “consistency” really means when you’re building nights/weekends The mindset shifts that help you stick with it long enough to win Topics we cover Ali’s background and what led to SimpleStrat The difference between “content” and a revenue-producing funnel Common traps: overproduction, perfectionism, chasing tactics, random posting Building a repeatable system: message → offer → distribution → follow-up How founders can use video strategically without turning it into a full-time job What it looks like to build a serious business in Middle America Chapters (Add timestamps once you have them — here’s a clean template) 00:00 Intro + why this conversation matters 03:00 Ali’s story + what SimpleStrat does 08:00 Content that converts vs content that performs 14:00 The simplest revenue funnel most founders should start with 21:00 How to stay consistent when you have a day job 28:00 Sales + marketing alignment for small teams 35:00 Biggest mistakes founders make (and the fix) 41:00 Closing advice + where to follow Ali / SimpleStrat Resources mentioned SimpleStrat (add link) Ali Schwanke (add link) HubSpot / CRM / video tools mentioned (add list) About the guest Ali Schwanke is the co-founder of SimpleStrat, a team known for practical, execution-focused marketing strategy (and strong content systems). (Add 1–2 lines specific to what Ali says in the episode.) About Prairie Founders Club Prairie Founders Club is a founder community rooted in Nebraska and open to builders everywhere—focused on practical education, community support, and turning side ventures into real businesses (and real exit plans).