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Cracking the Code: Modern Digital Marketing & Strategic Partnerships

Written by Justin Starbird | 8/22/25 11:41 AM

Cracking the Code: Modern Digital Marketing & Strategic Partnerships

In this episode of The TAGLine Podcast, host Justin Starbird welcomes Matthew Lane, VP of Sales at Straight North, to discuss the evolving landscape of digital marketing partnerships. 

Matthew shares Straight North's focus on search marketing (SEO and paid advertising) for B2B lead generation and how they stay ahead of rapid changes in the industry, particularly with the rise of AI.


Key discussion points include:

 

  • The Power of Specialization: The importance of leveraging specialized expertise from partners rather than relying on generalist approaches in digital marketing.
  • Measuring Success Beyond Traffic: How to measure success in the age of AI and zero-click search results, emphasizing visibility and valuable content.
  • Meeting Prospects Earlier: The shift towards engaging prospects higher up in the sales funnel, even before they are ready to make a purchasing decision.
  • The Genesis of Partnership Programs: The unique origin story of Straight North's partnership program, highlighting how collaboration, even with perceived competitors, can lead to mutual growth and expanded client value.
  • Modernizing Paid Advertising: The benefits of leveraging Google's Performance Max campaigns and integrating customer data for improved targeting and ROI.
  • The Enduring Value of Organic Content: The continued importance of high-quality, educational content for maximizing visibility in an AI-driven search landscape.

    Tune in to hear how these industry leaders are navigating the complexities of modern digital marketing and leveraging strategic partnerships for growth.

 

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We go beyond buzzwords to uncover how human-to-human marketing drives credibility, trust, and results. Because even in B2B, you’re not just selling to businesses—you’re connecting with people! 

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