The Power of Storytelling, Digital Marketing, and Business Growth: Insights from Heather Berryhill
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In the world of marketing and entrepreneurship, the ability to pivot, innovate, and connect with audiences is essential. During a recent Business Behind the Scenes event hosted by the Tulsa Regional Chamber, Heather Berryhill, founder and CEO of Chatter Marketing, shared her inspiring journey, key business lessons, and expert insights into digital marketing and social media strategy.
With over 25 years in marketing, Heather has built Chatter Marketing into a full-service advertising and branding firm, helping businesses thrive through creative storytelling, digital marketing, and strategic brand positioning. Here’s a look into her journey and some key takeaways from her presentation.
Heather Berryhill’s Entrepreneurial Journey: From Dallas to Tulsa
Heather’s marketing career began after graduating from Texas Tech University with a degree in Mass Communications and Public Relations. Her early roles included working in public relations at Hastings Books, Music & Video and later moving to Dallas to work at a marketing firm where she found her first mentor, Brian Moran.
Moran taught her a pivotal lesson: “Ask for what you want.” This mindset helped shape her approach to business and leadership.
After relocating to Tulsa, Heather joined a small ad agency, where she met her second mentor, Terry Still. Working closely with Terry for over 15 years, she gained invaluable experience in marketing strategy, brand development, and client relations. However, after Terry’s sudden passing in 2012, Heather knew it was time to take the leap into entrepreneurship.
In 2013, Chatter Marketing was born, and Heather has never looked back.
Chatter Marketing: A Full-Service Digital and Branding Agency
Today, Chatter Marketing is a one-stop marketing solution for businesses, specializing in:
- Brand Development – Logo design, messaging, and identity creation
- Website Design – Custom websites built for performance and SEO
- Video Production – Engaging video content for digital campaigns
- Print and Signage – Collateral materials that reinforce brand identity
- Social Media Management – Strategy, content creation, and audience engagement
- Digital Marketing – SEO, Google Ads, pay-per-click advertising, and more
One of the biggest game-changers for Chatter Marketing has been the rise of digital marketing. Heather emphasizes that traditional advertising alone is no longer enough—businesses need a strong online presence to stay competitive.
The Power of Digital Marketing and Social Media
Heather highlighted the importance of digital marketing, explaining how businesses must embrace:
- Search Engine Marketing (SEM): Google Ads and pay-per-click strategies to increase visibility
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO): Getting found on Google through organic search
- YouTube Advertising: Leveraging video content for brand awareness
- Geo-Targeting & Geo-Fencing: Precision marketing based on location data
- Reputation Management: Monitoring and responding to online reviews
- Google My Business Optimization: Enhancing local search presence
She also stressed the importance of social media, stating:
“You HAVE to be on social media. It’s no longer optional for businesses.”
Why Social Media Matters for Business Growth
Many business owners question whether social media is worth the investment. Heather explains that while social media alone won’t drive all sales, it plays a crucial role in branding and trust-building.
People visit business websites to learn about services, but they check social media to see WHO the business really is. That’s why social platforms are perfect for:
- Customer testimonials and success stories
- Behind-the-scenes content that humanizes the brand
- Video marketing to showcase products and services
- Engaging with the community and strengthening relationships
She warns businesses against randomly posting content without a strategy. Instead, social media should be seen as one piece of a larger marketing puzzle, working in sync with digital advertising, email marketing, and website optimization.
The Rise of Influencer Marketing and Instagram Stories
One of Heather’s biggest personal and professional transformations came when she immersed herself in influencer marketing.
How Heather Became an Instagram Influencer
After learning the power of Instagram Stories, Heather took a bold step and launched @JustMeHeatherB, a personal brand focused on cooking, entertaining, and home decor.
Her platform quickly grew, leading to:
- Brand partnerships, including a major collaboration with Reasor’s grocery store
- A weekly cooking segment on News On 6, where she shares recipes
- Expanded business opportunities for Chatter Marketing
Heather shared that influencer marketing is one of the fastest-growing digital strategies, especially for retail and e-commerce brands.
“If you have a retail business, you should seriously consider working with influencers.”
Business Lessons and Advice for Entrepreneurs
Heather’s journey has been filled with challenges, mentorships, and business pivots. Some of her biggest takeaways for entrepreneurs and business owners include:
1. Learn to Pivot and Adapt
When COVID-19 hit, Heather had to adjust her business strategy, shifting focus to digital marketing and influencer collaborations. Those who adapt to change will thrive, while those who resist will struggle.
2. Social Media Is Essential—But Use It Wisely
She advises businesses to be careful with political or controversial posts, as they can impact customer relationships. Stay professional, be respectful, and focus on providing value.
3. Manage Customer Reviews the Right Way
If you receive negative feedback online, never argue with customers. Instead, respond professionally and invite them to discuss their concerns privately. Potential customers care more about how you handle criticism than the complaint itself.
4. Leadership and Team Management Are Key
Heather openly admits that managing a team has been one of her biggest challenges. She encourages business owners to:
- Be clear with expectations
- Empower employees to make decisions
- Find the right balance between leadership and flexibility
5. The Future of Business Is Digital
She predicts that 2021 will be a major turning point for businesses, and those that embrace digital marketing, social media, and new technologies will see the most success.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Connection and Community
Heather closed her presentation by praising Tulsa’s business community, especially the Tulsa Regional Chamber and the Small Business Connection.
“Tulsa has an amazing small business network. Everyone lifts each other up and supports each other’s businesses. I can’t imagine a better place to grow a company.”
She also expressed her love for Tulsa, sharing that while she originally moved there “kicking and screaming” from Dallas, she wouldn’t trade it for anything now.
Looking to Elevate Your Brand?
If you’re ready to take your marketing strategy to the next level, Chatter Marketing Tulsa can help with:
- Brand strategy and development
- Digital marketing and SEO
- Social media management and influencer marketing
- Video production and website design
Visit ChatterMarketing.com to learn more, or connect with Heather at @JustMeHeatherB on Instagram for creative inspiration.