From Startup to Wunderbrand with Nicholas Kuhne

Ali "AJ" Jetha, CEO of Marketcircle and creator of the Mac-native Daylite CRM, joins Nicholas Kuhne to unpack what it takes to build a SaaS brand in a competitive and ever-evolving space. AJ opens up about bootstrapping, battling giants like HubSpot and Monday.com, and how Daylite is redefining value for small businesses by focusing on usability, offline access, and integrated features that don't break the bank.

From Fortune 100s like Disney and Mercedes-Benz to indie founders, their “Seven Wonders Video Podcast Program” helps brands turn one podcast episode into weeks of strategic content — even with basic equipment.They break down how trust is the real secret to creative success, why expensive gear doesn't equal results, and how consistent, authentic storytelling can power your brand like never before. If you're looking to grow without overspending, this is your blueprint.

With over 20 years in traditional media and a current obsession with generative tools, Erich is helping everyone from businesses to kids understand and embrace AI—without the tech jargon.Learn how his practical use of custom GPTs and video workflows makes AI accessible, fun, and transformational—from bedtime jokes with ChatGPT to streamlined nonprofit operations. Plus, you'll discover how to future-proof your kids (and your career) in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.

Samir shares unfiltered lessons from the trenches—how to avoid wasting ad spend, build high-converting campaigns, and think like an eight-figure founder.You'll hear how working for others can be the best training ground for entrepreneurship, what separates winning offers from expensive failures, and why understanding your ideal customer is the most powerful growth lever you have.Plus, Samir reveals his latest venture in Web3—why it's different this time, what musicians and creators can expect, and how NFTs are becoming less hype and more utility.

In this episode, Dave drops real talk on ad platforms, why Google and Facebook aren't your friends, and how radical transparency and AI-augmented creative are changing the e-commerce landscape.

From the streets of New York to a nationwide tech platform, Jared Rosenthal built a DNA and drug testing empire… from a truck. Yep, you heard right. The “Who's Your Daddy” RV didn't just turn heads—it launched a viral guerrilla marketing masterclass and even landed him a show on VH1.He's got stories of bus drivers chasing him down for paternity tests, tips for building your own scalable backend, and a real take on how AI is reshaping the future of small business.Why listen? If you're a founder looking to grow without funding, scale operations, or crack national PR without a cent spent on ads—this one's a banger.

Dr. Sharnael Wolverton-Sehon – author, global thought leader, and founder of Swiftfire International.Blending naturopathic medicine, quantum science, and spirituality, Dr. Sharnael has worked with over 15,000 clients globally, helping them unlock their potential with remote biofeedback, crystal healing, and energetic tools.

We dig into his journey from being inspired by the now-defunct platform Blab, to constructing a DIY podcast stage from old school chairs and auctioned gear, all the way to launching a first-of-its-kind Infinite Seat Theater. It's punk rock meets podcasting meets entrepreneurial grit.If you've ever wondered how to take your podcast from your spare room to a live stage with real audience interaction, Jeff's your guy. Plus – he's giving podcasters free access to his space to test their chops without risk.This is more than a side hustle. It's about building the middle ground between your basement and Madison Square Garden.

Host Nicholas Kuhne dives into powerful themes like goal setting, inner work, coaching readiness, and business growth with two of the most authentic voices in the self-improvement space.Whether you're starting your personal growth journey, scaling your podcast, or levelling up your business, this episode will challenge your mindset and provide the roadmap to lasting success.

From negotiating with Kevin O'Leary to helping founders avoid costly mistakes, this episode is packed with raw insights on when to sell, how to spot real traction, and why retirement is overrated when you're addicted to solving problems.

In this episode of From Startup to Wunderbrand, host Nicholas Kuhne dives into Bert's extraordinary journey—from solo expeditions to pioneering AI in healthcare with Leadbrain.ai.Discover how persistence trumps talent, why there are truly no shortcuts, and how AI is transforming customer acquisition in healthcare. Whether you're steering a startup or navigating your own leadership path, Bert's raw lessons on endurance, innovation, and entrepreneurship will anchor you.

From starting with zero capital to running two companies, Jared talks about bootstrapping high-end brand launches, the art of organic growth, influencer marketing, and the difference between fan merch and wearable fashion. Plus, he opens up about mental health, burnout, and the social challenges of being a solo founder working from home.If you're a coach, creator, or eCommerce entrepreneur looking to scale with purpose, this episode is packed with value.

Paul Davis – Business Mentor, Author, Creator of The Genius CodeIf you're chasing balance, but feel stuck in the grind, Paul's methodology offers a reset. We talk about work-life design, leadership flow states, and why most business owners are solving the wrong problems. Whether you're a solopreneur or scaling fast, this episode gives you tools to stop self-sabotaging and start designing a business that works for you.

Why 90% of data transformation efforts fail – and how to stop your business becoming a cautionary tale.Ritavan breaks down the brutal truth behind failed AI projects, legacy business traps, and the billion-dollar bait-and-switch game. If you're running a non-software-native company and confused by the hype, this episode delivers the unfiltered roadmap to becoming a data-driven winner – without falling for snake oil.

Why listen to this episode?Because most people confuse budgeting with strategy. In this episode, Dr. Hillen tears that myth apart and shows founders how to think like strategists, build companies that actually adapt, and lead teams that don't wait to be told what to do. It's strategic thinking made accessible – no overpriced consultants, no fluff.This one's for startup founders, brand leaders and future Netflixes looking to play offence, not just survive.

In this episode, Gal shares his journey from the Israeli army to marketing teacher and stealth-mode startup founder. He reveals the strategic thinking behind Bold PMM's subscription-based marketing model, and why he believes most B2B startups fail—not because of bad products, but because no one knows they exist. We also dive into how Bold Voice helps SaaS companies build brand credibility through podcast appearances, plus Gal's vision of empowering solopreneurs in Israel with his productized service playbook.This conversation is a must-listen for SaaS founders, product marketers, and anyone looking to scale visibility without blowing the budget.

With an impressive background at Meta, eBay, McDonald's, and Target, Anya shares her transition from corporate to startup life, the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, and her mission to reinvent fashion for men who want to look great without the hassle.From her Taiwanese roots and experience in Silicon Valley to building one of the most innovative fashion-tech brands for men, Anya discusses product iteration, AI styling, brand partnerships, sustainability, and the vision to make Taelor a global platform for modern professionals.

Jill unpacks her Return on Kindness (ROK) framework, the secrets behind her Publicity Breakthrough Bootcamp, and how kindness is not just good for humanity—but good for business. If you're a startup founder, coach, or marketer, this episode will show you how to stand out, build credibility, and land media coverage without spending thousands on agencies.She shares PR tips you can implement right now, why generosity pays off, and how personal branding and storytelling are crucial in today's attention economy.

Michele DeFilippo has been a pioneer in the independent publishing world since 2001. As the founder of 1106 Design, she's helped over 4,000 authors bring their book dreams to life — without giving up control or royalties. In this episode, Michele joins Nicholas Kuhne to debunk the myths of traditional publishing, discuss how to turn lead magnets into powerful brand tools, and explain how indie publishing can put four times the revenue in an author's pocket.

We unpack her signature use of Jungian archetypes, how to train AI with your unique brand voice, and why Mona believes the human touch is the missing ingredient in most AI-generated content. If you're trying to stand out in the era of mass AI content, this episode is for you.She also reflects on her shift from scepticism to curiosity, empowering others to do the same—especially those who think it's “too late” to embrace AI.

Michael Buckbee joins Nicholas Kuhne to break down how AI is disrupting search, branding, and content marketing—and what businesses can do to stay ahead. With a career spanning cybersecurity, marketing, and SaaS startups, Michael is now the co-founder of Knowatoa, a tool that tracks brand sentiment and visibility across AI search engines like ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google Gemini.

We dive into the evolution from "Scale Mail" to Sherlock, their direct mail strategies, and why personal branding is the next growth lever. Oh—and he used to row for Oxford and coach at Princeton. Yeah, it's that kind of episode.

Matthew Lesko—the man in the question mark suit—isn't just a media personality with over 100 TV appearances on Oprah, Larry King, and Good Morning America. He's a bold truth-teller with 50 years of experience helping everyday Americans find billions in government grants and funding. In this episode, we dive into how Matthew built a legendary personal brand, what keeps him going at 81, and why your heart—not your brain—is the key to success.

From using AI to create content that ranks to turning one blog post into 10+ videos, Matt breaks down his full process, step by step. If you're overwhelmed by SEO, stuck on content ideas, or trying to figure out LinkedIn, this episode is a goldmine. We talk tools, tactics, and the mindset shift needed to grow in 2025.

Richard Levy, founder and CEO of Sophera Marketing, joins host Nicholas Kuhne on From Startup to Wunderbrand to share how startups can thrive by using strategic marketing over big-budget tactics. From real-world case studies to practical frameworks like the Three C's of Positioning and the importance of diagnostics before tactics, this episode is packed with lessons for any founder, marketer, or brand strategist looking to build a business that scales and succeeds.Call to ActionLearn more about Richard Levy and how Sophera Marketing can help your business thrive:

In this episode, Nicholas Kuhne welcomes back Robert Indries, a serial entrepreneur with a remarkable journey from engineering geek to building and exiting multimillion-dollar businesses. Whether you're a manager, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a business owner aiming to empower your teams, this episode is packed with practical, unfiltered advice you can apply immediately.

Join us in this inspiring conversation with Marc Sauer, serial entrepreneur and founder of Urban August and International Tie. Learn why solving a real, everyday problem gives your brand an edge, and discover valuable insights into launching niche products online.If you're an aspiring entrepreneur looking to identify your niche and build a brand with staying power, Marc's story is a blueprint worth following. You can explore his products or connect with him directly:

Specialising in photography for speakers, authors, coaches, and consultants, John reveals why your iPhone selfie isn't enough when aiming for high-impact branding. Discover the power of imagery in positioning yourself as an authority, creating consistent visual storytelling, and effectively connecting with your audience.Explore why a consistent visual strategy matters, the importance of updating your portfolio regularly, and the difference professional photography makes in establishing perceived value and trust. John shares his journey into expert brand photography, his experiences with influential figures like Phil Jones, and unique anecdotes from his adventurous photography sessions.Connect with John Demato:Website: www.johndemato.comSocial media links available on his websiteTimestamps & Key Topics:[00:00] Introduction to John Demato and visual storytelling[01:00] Why professional photography still matters in the smartphone age[03:00] Importance of regularly updating your professional images[05:00] How outdated visuals affect audience trust[08:00] Creating a strategic visual plan aligned with your brand[13:00] John's photography process for new clients[20:00] Capturing authenticity in brand visuals[22:00] John's path to specialising in brand photography[24:00] Impactful photography experiences and key influences[26:00] John's personal branding and content marketing approach[30:00] Unique photography experiences and memorable moments#personalbranding Connect with me on:All my linksBecome a guestSign up for RiversideGet Descript #DigitalMarketing #Branding #PersonalBranding #MarketingInsights #SocialMediaStrategy

Roy unpacks his strategic game planning process, explains the power of differentiation, and discusses how he created a business that later reached $18 billion in revenue. If you're looking to stand out, scale up, and execute like a pro, this episode is for you.Learn more!

We discuss why simply using platforms like HubSpot or MailChimp isn't enough anymore, the importance of authentication protocols like DKIM, SPF, and DMARC, and how Google and Yahoo's new rules impact email marketing. Plus, MV shares insights on why email is the glue for your business, the importance of testing and auditing your emails, and how to optimize automations without losing authenticity.If your emails aren't getting the engagement they should, this episode is a must-listen!What next?Want to improve your email deliverability and get out of the spam folder?

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Ben shares insights on how writing a book isn't just about selling copies—it's about positioning yourself as an authority, generating leads, and creating a long-term legacy. He discusses common mistakes new authors make, how to structure a book for success, and why marketing a book starts before you even write a word. If you've ever thought about writing a book to boost your brand, this episode is a must-listen!Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] - Introduction: Who is Ben Cena, and why should you listen to him?[00:01:00] - The rise of self-publishing and why traditional publishing is outdated[00:02:00] - How Ben transitioned from gym trainer to publishing expert[00:03:00] - The power of a book: Why becoming an author builds authority[00:04:00] - The biggest challenge for most aspiring authors: Procrastination & mindset[00:06:00] - Why writing a book is not enough—marketing is key[00:07:00] - The #1 mistake most first-time authors make[00:08:00] - Crafting the perfect book title & cover for maximum impact[00:10:00] - Case study: How one of Ben's clients turned $40K in ads into $250K in sales[00:12:00] - The real money in books: It's not about book sales, but business leverage[00:14:00] - Why YouTube is one of the best platforms for book marketing[00:16:00] - How to use a book to get TEDx talks, media exposure, and partnerships[00:18:00] - The step-by-step process Ben follows with new clients[00:20:00] - High Value Author's vision for 2025 and how they plan to scale[00:22:00] - Final thoughts: How to get started on your bestseller journeyWhat next:

Nick shares his journey from working in corporate America at Ernst & Young to launching Frayter Media, an agency that specializes in building personal brands for high-profile athletes, CEOs, and executives. He dives into how MMA fighters are realizing the power of personal branding, how social media has revolutionized sports marketing, and how new media like podcasts and short-form content are changing the game.This episode is packed with insights on leveraging social media, working with elite clients, and scaling a remote business. If you're interested in brand-building, sports marketing, or digital entrepreneurship, this one's for you!Call to Action

Carol dives deep into price arbitrage, setting boundaries in business, the power of specialization in Meta advertising, and how she helps coaches attract high-quality leads and boost revenue. She also shares case studies, including a six-figure course launch and strategic list-building for client success.Tune in for expert insights on Meta ads, digital marketing strategies, and how to scale your coaching business with the right ad strategy!Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] - Introduction: Why Carol Kabaale is the perfect guest for this episode[00:01:00] - Specialization: Why Carol focuses exclusively on online business coaches[00:02:00] - The power of branding: First impressions from Carol's website[00:03:00] - How Carol helps coaches amplify their message[00:04:00] - Carol's transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship[00:06:00] - Setting boundaries in business: How Carol reclaimed her time[00:08:00] - Price arbitrage: How she leveraged global pricing differences[00:10:00] - How Carol landed her first international clients[00:12:00] - Why specializing in Meta ads was the key to her success[00:15:00] - Common ad mistakes: The dangers of the “Boost Post” button[00:18:00] - Success story: How Carol helped a coach achieve a six-figure launch[00:20:00] - The importance of lead nurturing and list-building[00:22:00] - Carol's vision for 2025: Growth without sacrificing freedom[00:24:00] - Final thoughts: How to work with CarolCall to Action

In this episode, Nicholas Kuhne chats with Becky Robinson, founder and CEO of Weaving Influence, about the power of books as business tools and how to effectively market your ideas. Becky, an expert in book marketing and thought leadership, shares her proven strategies for growing an audience, launching a book, and turning your expertise into lasting influence.She reveals how authors, entrepreneurs, and business leaders can use books as lead generation tools, how to build an online presence before publishing, and the biggest mistakes to avoid in book marketing. Whether you're an aspiring author or a seasoned thought leader, Becky's insights will help you maximize your book's reach and impact.Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] Introduction to Becky Robinson & Weaving Influence[00:02:00] Are books still relevant in a digital-first world?[00:04:00] Why a book is the ultimate business card[00:06:00] The ROI of a book: Cost per acquisition vs. customer lifetime value[00:09:00] How to know if your book idea is ready for publishing[00:12:00] The importance of testing your ideas before you write a book[00:15:00] Why sharing your ideas online is key to refining your message[00:18:00] Behind the scenes: How Becky marketed her own book Reach[00:20:00] Repurposing book content for social media, courses, and more[00:22:00] The business benefits of writing a book (beyond royalties)[00:25:00] Making money as an author: Reality vs. expectations[00:28:00] Why fiction and nonfiction authors need different marketing approaches[00:30:00] The power of book awards, Amazon rankings, and media campaigns[00:32:00] How to work with Becky & Weaving InfluenceCall to Action

From hiring philosophy to revenue operations, AI-powered outreach, and the challenges of selling AI-driven solutions to legacy businesses, Frank delivers hard-hitting insights for startup founders, sales leaders, and AI enthusiasts.

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With a career spanning decades and work with brands like AT&T and Disney, Angelo shares his insights on how businesses can maximize their marketing efforts without committing to a full-time executive.We dive deep into the role of a fractional CMO, the common mistakes businesses make in marketing, and how to effectively position and scale brands. Angelo also shares his signature "APPLES" framework for strategic marketing and gives invaluable advice for entrepreneurs, business owners, and consultants looking to refine their marketing approach.If you've ever wondered whether your company really needs a full-time CMO, or how to get the most out of a fractional marketing leader, this episode is for you!Timestamps & Key Topics[00:00:00] Introduction to Angelo Ponzi & the role of a fractional CMO[00:02:00] Why Angelo didn't change his surname despite the association with Ponzi schemes[00:05:00] What drives Angelo? The excitement of working across different industries[00:07:00] The racehorse vs. mule analogy: Why fractional CMOs are high-intensity strategic players[00:09:00] What types of companies benefit most from hiring a fractional CMO[00:12:00] Do businesses really know their marketing problems? Why external assessments are key[00:14:00] How Angelo helps companies align their leadership teams and uncover market opportunities[00:17:00] The biggest marketing mistakes businesses make & how to avoid them[00:20:00] Learning from bad experiences: Why failure can be your biggest teacher[00:23:00] The APPLES Framework: Angelo's step-by-step approach to marketing strategy[00:28:00] Finding the right clients as a consultant: Not all business is good business[00:30:00] Where to find Angelo and how to connect for fractional CMO servicesCall to Action

We also explore:How AI helped Chris write a book in under a weekThe future of AI and automation in businessWhat AI can't replace in human creativityThe balance between AI tools and personal brandingHow AI is leveling the playing field for startups and agenciesA must-listen for marketers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to future-proof their business in an AI-driven world!

Kyle started as a Hollywood writer, working with some of the industry's top producers, before embarking on a four-year digital nomad journey. His travels and passion for storytelling led him to develop Omlist, an app that prioritizes human taste clusters over AI-driven predictions.

Lee and Nicholas dive deep into sustainability in business, exploring the difference between ESG and sustainability, how startups can integrate sustainable practices from day one, and why financial institutions are prioritizing green funding. Learn how to avoid SDG washing, leverage sustainability as a competitive advantage, and prepare for the growing demands of ESG reporting.

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Trish also discusses the power of plant-based wellness, her family's medicinal farm, and how she's using events, storytelling, and influencer marketing to grow her brand without a massive advertising budget. If you're an aspiring entrepreneur looking for unfiltered startup lessons, this episode is a must-listen!

Andrea shares her journey from Division I volleyball to business coaching, her proven strategies for success, and the transformative power of her four pillars: vision, A-team, systems, and leadership.Key moments include:[00:00:00] The importance of defining your "why" and making an impact.[00:03:30] The four pillars for entrepreneurial success.[00:10:00] Lessons from coaching Olympic-level athletes and applying them to business.[00:14:00] Leadership challenges and turning around a failing team.[00:18:00] The mindset shift from six-figure to seven-figure success.[00:24:00] Crafting a vision for a sustainable and scalable business.Andrea's practical advice, engaging stories, and structured methodology will inspire entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. Don't miss her insights on building a high-performing team and creating systems that set you free.