Small Town Woes

I'm curious if any Warriors have had any success in small towns. I live in the southeast (U.S.) in a town with a population of around 15,000. Most people here are relatively unsophisticated even though I think everyone owns a smartphone, especially the younger crowd. There are 4 or 5 plumbers, electricians, heating and air companies, 20 hair salons, 25 or so restaurants (about 2/3 are chains), at least 100 churches, and several other retail and other establishments. There is a north/south interstate that runs through here and also an east/west state highway, so there is some car traffic passing through. I have frequented pretty much all of the businesses here at one time or another. Most advertise in the local (now 3 day a week) newspaper, sports programs, loyalty cards sold by the high school athletic club, and other minor publications. I have searched high and low for SMS or email opt-ins and only found one regional chain, Jack's, that uses SMS to promote their fast food restaurant (they only send out an offer once a month). A person could surmise that, due to the rarity of SMS here, that it either doesn't work, or it has not been offered and promoted properly. I opted in to Jack's and always use my coupon.

As far as SEO, desktop, and mobile sites go, there are a few, mostly by the national and regional companies and restaurants. Google search returns few if any local results for any type of food or service inquiries.

I will say that, within an 80 mile radius there is easily over a million people, and another 3 million or so at 120 miles. That's where I believe the real opportunity lies, but I would love to learn, sell, practice, locally first. I believe one must physically go and talk to people to succeed in any business and that's how I plan to build my business.

So, back to my original question: any advice from seasoned Warriors who have succeeded in smaller towns and cities?