This is how small businesses grow—together. The Zone teaches you how to build a brand that earns trust, builds loyalty, and serves your community.
This timeless framework has helped small businesses build real brands, create loyal customers, and stay consistent for decades. Built by a family of marketers and serial entrepreneurs, The Zone gives small business owners the structure, clarity, and confidence to market and grow with purpose.
You’re posting online, trying new things—but none of it feels connected or consistent.
You’ve got customers, but you don’t have a real system to keep them coming back.
You know your business has potential, but your marketing feels like a guessing game.
The Zone gives you a proven, step-by-step system to:
Clarify your brand and customer message.
Build a consistent marketing playbook.
Earn loyal brand champions—not just one-time sales.
Measure what’s working with your own scorecard.
Get mentorship, track your growth, and stay accountable.
We call it “The Zone” for a reason— this is where businesses lock in, level up, and last.
It’s a marketing education and mentorship platform built around the Twelve Steps of Marketing, created by Shaundell Newsome. It helps business owners grow with strategy, structure, and support.
Shaundell Newsome is a three-time Small Business Administration (SBA) award winner, founder of Sumnu Marketing, and co-creator of The Twelve Steps of Marketing. With over 35 years of experience and national recognition, he’s one of the most respected small business marketing strategists in the country.
Entrepreneurs at any stage—side hustlers, startup founders, established owners, and experienced leaders ready to give back.
Yes! Nu Network is 100% free and includes networking events, pitch opportunities, bonus content, and access to our online community.
Yes. Many members start with Nu Network and join The Zone when they’re ready for deeper learning and mentorship.
Full access to all 12 Steps of Marketing, live weekly coaching, downloadable worksheets and tools, group discussion, and a completion certificate.
$200/month or $1800/year (you save $600 annually).
Most members complete the 12 steps in 3–6 months, but you can go at your own pace.
The Mentor Circle is by invitation only for graduates of The Zone who are ready to coach and give back. You can request an invite to be considered.
Done-for-you marketing support (CRM, website, branding), speaking and coaching opportunities, private retreats, and recognition as a Certified Sumnu Mentor.
Sumnu Marketing | 2025