Introduction
Darci’s journey into digital marketing didn’t begin in a boardroom—it started with coupons. From humble beginnings managing a coupon website to founding and leading Explore Digital, Darci has navigated the ever-changing landscape of marketing with curiosity, adaptability, and an obsession for results. Now, with over a decade of experience and a growing team, she’s helping businesses thrive by leveraging data-driven strategies.
The Accidental Start in Digital Marketing
In 2011, fresh out of college, Darci landed a job at a coupon website. It seemed like a great entry point into digital marketing, but when the site was blacklisted by Google due to black-hat SEO practices, she got a crash course in what not to do. That early setback ignited her passion for ethical, effective digital marketing strategies—ones that would deliver long-term success rather than quick, unsustainable wins.
Mastering SEO and Digital Growth
After her experience in the coupon space, Darci joined an agency, where she dove deep into the mechanics of search engine optimization (SEO), Google Maps, and YouTube advertising. She quickly saw the power of getting businesses to the top of Google search results and became obsessed with helping companies generate leads, grow revenue, and scale sustainably.
From Freelancer to Founder
Darci’s first major client was a local Pilates studio chain that needed help with directory listings. With her expertise, she optimized their online presence, driving growth that helped them expand from just a handful of locations to over 200. That experience validated her skills and set the stage for her next move—starting her own agency.
Explore Digital: Helping Businesses Scale
Today, Explore Digital is a 22-person agency that specializes in SEO, paid media, email marketing, and conversion rate optimization (CRO). Whether working with franchises, e-commerce brands, or B2B companies, Darci and her team focus on sustainable growth strategies tailored to each business. One of the biggest lessons she’s learned? Not every business is ready for marketing, and part of her process is auditing potential clients to ensure they have the right foundation before investing in digital campaigns.
The Future of Digital Marketing
With the rise of AI, changing social media landscapes, and evolving search algorithms, Darci believes that businesses must diversify their marketing strategies. While AI is a powerful tool, she emphasizes that marketing is still about people, relationships, and trust. Email marketing, she argues, remains one of the most valuable owned assets a business can cultivate—one that withstands the volatility of social media platforms.
Final Thoughts
From navigating the pitfalls of black-hat SEO to leading a thriving agency, Darci’s journey is a testament to resilience, learning, and a passion for helping businesses grow. Whether it’s a startup looking to scale or a franchise aiming for national expansion, Explore Digital is at the forefront of building brands that last.
