Getting Granular

PPC Origins - Rachael Beech

Episode Summary

In episode 47 of Getting Granular, host Chris Cesar continues the PPC Origin series with Granular’s newest Paid Media Specialist, Rachael Beach. Rachael shares her journey into paid media, from an unexpected internship opportunity to becoming a PPC professional. She talks about the importance of specialization in marketing, her experience in B2B advertising, and her enthusiasm for structured, well-organized accounts. Alongside professional insights, Rachael tells a hilarious and unexpected story of working at a Christmas-themed petting zoo, where she was unexpectedly thrust into farm labor and even got bitten by a woodchuck. Tune in for an engaging discussion on PPC, career growth, and some truly unforgettable job stories.

Episode Notes

• Meet Rachael (00:23): Rachael shares a bit about herself, her love for outdoor activities, and her unhealthy number of houseplants.
• How She Found PPC (02:27): Rachael details how she fell into paid search while interning during college and unexpectedly became responsible for an entire company’s PPC efforts at just 19 years old.
• Why PPC? (06:34): Discussing why she stuck with PPC, Rachael explains the value of having a specialized skill set in marketing, the blend of creativity and data-driven strategy, and how she enjoys working in the field.
• The Importance of Specialization (07:50): Chris and Rachael discuss the advantage of developing hard skills over being a generalist in marketing.
• Past PPC Experience (11:57): Rachael shares her experience working with B2B clients, including industrial manufacturing companies, and her time managing Amazon advertising campaigns.
• Rachael’s Wildest Job Story (14:15): Before PPC, Rachael worked at a Christmas-themed petting zoo and amusement park—where she did everything from cleaning barns to getting bitten by a woodchuck.
• Life at Granular (20:30): Rachael talks about what she enjoys most about working at Granular, including the diverse client portfolio, collaborative culture, and strong team dynamic.
• Her Approach to PPC (22:38): Rachael shares her PPC philosophy: setting up accounts in a structured and organized way from the start, taking ownership of client relationships, and maintaining a high standard of work.
• The Future of PPC (26:42): A discussion about automation, AI, and the evolving challenges of paid media, including concerns about losing control over key account functions.
• Final Words of Wisdom (28:58): Rachael’s advice: never be afraid to ask questions and continue learning—don’t let the fear of feeling “dumb” stop you from growing.