I've heard lots of podcasts on digital marketing and how it can be an excellent side hustle. Recently my friend who owns a countertop business reached out to me and said to learn Facebook ads and whatever else to boost his business. This sounds like a great opportunity to begin and already have my real world client. The problem is that everything I see online leads to an online course, which I badly want to avoid. I've literally spent 1000s on courses and would much rather take the harder long road than to listen to a 25 yea old "guru"

For those with experience, would you be willing to define a road map for me? Where should I start? What skills specifically do I need to learn and in which sequence?

Any kind soul willing to share real insights?