About Third Act Marketing

Hey, I’m Dan Ritzke, Fractional CMO and Founder of Third Act Marketing.

For the past 18 years, I’ve had the privilege of wearing many hats in the marketing world. My journey began in the agency space, where I collaborated with a diverse range of clients—from consumer brands to B2B companies. Those early experiences shaped my expertise in crafting brand and marketing strategies and taught me the importance of hands-on execution to deliver real results.

Today, as an independent marketing consultant, my mission is simple: help businesses build a strategic brand and marketing foundation and ensure those strategies translate into measurable, tangible outcomes.

As a Fractional CMO, I specialize in solving complex marketing challenges, particularly for businesses with limited resources. My approach is hands-on, collaborative, and focused on creating systems that work for the long haul.

Whether you’re looking for a strategic partner to guide your marketing efforts or a trusted expert to solve a specific challenge, I’d love to connect and explore how we can work together.

My Mission

To empower Founders, CEOs, and business leaders with strategic marketing leadership and hands-on guidance that drives sustainable growth. As a Fractional CMO and marketing consultant, I help small and mid-size businesses build strong brand foundations, craft effective marketing strategies, and execute them seamlessly—delivering immediate results and long-term success.

What I Believe In

Providing Honest, Actionable Guidance

I’ll give you the feedback you need to grow. Even if it’s tough to hear, you'll get transparency and support to confidently move forward.

Fostering Curiosity & Generating Deep Insights

I dig deep to understand your business, customers, and market, asking the right questions to uncover hidden opportunities and challenges.

Developing Strategies That Are Aligned With Your Business

Every recommendation is tailored to your unique goals, so you get strategies that drive impact—not just the latest trends.

Building a Partnership Based on Trust

You’ll have a trusted partner who works closely with your team. We build mutual trust, stay aligned, and achieve the best results together.

Generating Clarity & Eliminating Confusion

Complex strategies are simplified into clear, actionable steps. You’ll always know what’s next, with no confusion or jargon.

Balancing Immediate Wins & Long-Term Growth

Get both quick wins and sustainable growth. I balance short-term results with long-term strategies for lasting success.

Treating Your Business Like My Own

Your time and money are valuable, and I treat them that way. Every decision I make is thoughtful, maximizing impact for your business.

Avoiding Cookie-Cutter Solutions

While I use proven frameworks, your plan will be fully tailored. No two businesses are the same, and your strategy reflects that.

Saying Yes Only When I Can Add Real Value

I only take on projects where I can deliver measurable ROI. If it’s not the right fit, I’ll be upfront—because your success comes first.

Checking Egos at the Door

I don’t pretend to know it all (no marketer does). But by staying open to learning and testing, we can find the best solutions quickly—without getting stuck going down the wrong path.

Let’s Build a True Marketing Partnership

If you’re looking for an expert who shares your beliefs and understands your challenges, let’s connect. I’ll help you gain clarity, choose the right strategies, and build efficient, results-driven processes. With a tailored plan and hands-on support, you can stop stressing over your marketing and focus on growing your business.