PSM: Professional Services Marketing

What does it take to move from marketing manager to CMO in the AEC industry? In this episode, we talk with Jennifer Haferbecker, founder of On Your Market Set Go, about the mindset shifts, strategic thinking, and evolving expectations that shape today's marketing leaders. Jennifer shares how marketing teams can support firm growth, influence business decisions, and build internal alignment—especially during times of change. We also explore the rise of the fractional CMO model, the expanding role of marketing in mergers and acquisitions, and the importance of showing up as a strategic partner at every level. Whether you're leading a team or looking to grow into your next role, this conversation offers real guidance for building a meaningful and future-ready career.

What if your biggest career breakthrough isn't about a title or a checklist, but about learning to observe and adapt? In this episode, we talk with Joanna Kozłowski, strategist, coach, and founder of Resolute Consulting, about how to take charge of your own growth—even when no one's handing you the playbook. Joanna shares what it means to become an anthropologist of your own career, how to decode workplace culture, and why marketers need to connect professional development to business outcomes. With roots in adult education and a deep background in AEC marketing and BD, Joanna brings sharp insights and plenty of real-world advice for building confidence, telling better stories, and showing up with purpose.

Coaching a team for interviews is about more than polishing presentations. It is about protecting confidence, creating emotional safety, and helping people show up as the best version of themselves. In this episode, Deirdre Booth and Damien Morris dive into how to coach the coaches by training leaders to give feedback that grows people instead of tearing them down. They explore what it means to coach with empathy, how to time feedback for maximum impact, and how to adapt coaching styles to different personalities. Whether you are leading interview prep or stepping into coaching for the first time, this conversation will give you fresh tools to support your teams when it matters most.

Let's get real—shortlist interviews are high-pressure, high-stakes moments where everything you've built—your strategy, story, and team—comes down to one shot. In this episode, Damion Morris and Deirdre Booth unpack what it really takes to show up in the room and deliver. This isn't a conversation about perfect slide decks or canned responses. It's about the human side of the interview—the mindset, the chemistry, and the culture that drives real connection. From frameworks and firm culture to the psychology of safety and the power of storytelling, Damion and Deirdre get into the details of how great teams prep—and why preparation isn't just logistics, it's leadership. You'll hear practical strategies for coaching, team building, and managing competing priorities. You'll learn why slides shouldn't be your crutch, how to help technical staff feel safe and confident, and why Q&A is often the make-or-break moment. And yes, you'll hear what happens when the wheels fall off—and what it takes to get them back on. Whether you're building a pursuit team, stepping into your first interview, or trying to elevate how your firm shows up when it matters most, this episode is packed with stories, tactics, and hard-won insights you can put to work right away.

In this episode of The PSM Show, Deirdre Booth goes one-on-one with longtime friend and bold brand-builder Nicole Posten, founder and principal of On Point Architecture. Based in Mesa, Arizona, Nicole launched her firm while on maternity leave—baby on one hip, CAD drawings on the screen, and zero interest in playing it safe. Nicole brings the same energy to her marketing as she does to her design work: unapologetically real, fiercely professional, and refreshingly human. From naming her firm “On Point” to embracing a brand voice that's quirky, brassy, and undeniably her, Nicole shares how authenticity has been the not-so-secret weapon behind her 75% repeat client rate and year-over-year business growth.   This is a masterclass in doing business your way—and making no apologies for it. If you've ever struggled to find your brand voice or felt the pressure to blend in, Nicole's story is your permission slip to stand out.

Success isn't just about working hard—it's about working smart. In this episode, Deirdre Booth sits down with Rachel Charlton, founder of Sticky Communications, to explore seven lessons she wished she had learned sooner in her AEC career. They break down the power of taking initiative, how to lead with purpose, and why understanding the why behind your work can shape both your career and workplace relationships. Rachel also shares how young professionals can navigate challenges like balancing expectations, avoiding burnout, and using data-driven insights to gain influence. Beyond career strategy, they dig into the mindset shifts that can make all the difference—how to advocate for yourself, step out of your comfort zone, and turn rejection into redirection. Whether you're new to AEC or looking to take your career to the next level, this episode offers real-world advice to help you grow and succeed.

Sticking to goals is easy when motivation is high—but what happens when that initial spark fades? In the third installment of our goal-setting series, Deirdre and Damion explore how to stay connected to your goals by digging into the why behind them. They discuss the difference between setting goals for external validation versus personal fulfillment and how aligning with your deeper purpose leads to lasting progress. They also break down the role of self-awareness in navigating change and how external feedback can reveal blind spots, strengths, and unexpected opportunities. By paying attention to both internal motivation and outside perspective, you can gain a clearer picture of what truly matters and adjust your path with confidence. Finally, they discuss the art of letting go—learning to trust the bigger picture, even when things don't go as planned. Whether you're questioning a goal or facing setbacks, this episode offers a refreshing take on staying flexible, focused, and connected to what really drives you.

In the second episode of our goal-setting series, Deirdre and Damion rethink traditional success by shifting the focus from achievement to transformation. Instead of chasing goals for the sake of external recognition, they explore how goals should serve as stepping stones toward personal growth. They introduce the NICE goal framework as an alternative to traditional SMART goals, highlighting the importance of setting goals that align with personal values and long-term vision. Through personal stories and practical strategies, they share how discipline and consistency play different roles in success, why sustainable progress matters more than rigid perfectionism, and how self-awareness can reshape the way we set and pursue goals. This conversation offers a fresh perspective on goal setting, emphasizing who you become in the process—not just what you accomplish.

New year, fresh start? Maybe. But let's face it: the pressure to set ambitious resolutions and overhaul your life on January 1st is overwhelming—and often counterproductive. In this episode, hosts Damion and Deirdre take a deep dive into the mindset shift we all need: moving from hustle culture to a life that's fulfilling, intentional, and aligned with what truly matters. Drawing from their personal journeys, the hosts explore why societal expectations around goal-setting can lead to burnout and frustration, and how to approach 2025 with clarity and balance instead. They challenge the conventional “new year, new you” narrative and replace it with a focus on how you want to feel and who you want to become. Whether you're navigating career milestones, striving for personal growth, or simply trying to reclaim some peace in a chaotic world, this episode is filled with inspiration and actionable ideas. The discussion touches on the importance of balance, the value of joy and connection, and how to make progress without losing sight of what truly matters. Damion and Deirdre's warmth, humor, and candid reflections create an engaging space for listeners to rethink their approach to the new year and beyond.Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com

This episode marks the transition of longtime co-host Frank Lippert as he steps away to focus on his role as Director of Strategy at Delve Underground. For the past three years, Frank has been a trusted voice for candid, honest conversations about leadership, marketing, and the human side of professional services. His reflections on this journey offer valuable insights on authentic leadership, succession planning, and navigating change — themes that every professional can relate to. But as one chapter closes, another begins. The PSM Show is proud to welcome its new co-host, Damion Morris, a proven marketing leader from PCL Construction known for his innovative thinking, dynamic presence, and ability to spark meaningful conversations. Together with co-host Deirdre, Damion promises to bring fresh energy, bold ideas, and timely discussions on the topics that matter most to today's professionals. Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com

In this episode, Deirdre sits down with Uniqueka Walcott, a renowned writer and speaker, to discuss personal branding, career ownership, and workplace culture. Known as the "Billion Dollar Bid Writer," Uniqueka shares her journey of crafting a strong personal brand through strategic communications and offers insights from her experience to help individuals embrace authenticity and boost visibility. The conversation highlights pivotal career moments, emphasizing self-guidance and the importance of a supportive network. Uniqueka addresses challenges in career ownership, including mindset shifts and actionable feedback, and stresses the necessity of recognizing when change is needed. Strategies for overcoming obstacles and cultivating a workplace culture of mutual respect are also explored. Key takeaways include rejecting disrespect, being discerning with feedback, and embracing proactive change, providing listeners with practical insights to advance their personal branding and career growth.   Uniqueka Walcott, CPSM, Uniqueka Walcott Communications LLC Uniqueka Walcott is celebrated for her prowess in proposal management and strategic communications. As the founder of Uniqueka Walcott Communications LLC, she empowers others to express their authentic selves. Holding a B.A. in journalism with a focus on Public Relations from Georgia State University, Uniqueka has secured over a billion dollars in government contracts and has been featured in the Baltimore Sun. Her Personal Branding Masterclass is instrumental in helping clients boost their visibility and build meaningful connections, paving the way for their growth.     Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com

Cause Marketing is where A/E/C firms partner with non-profits to develop campaigns that do good things for the community, help the non-profit and their cause, and advance the brand and goodwill of the company investing in it. PSM Show cohost Frank Lippert talks to Jodi Sommers of Jodi Sommers Marketing and Megan Falkenstein of Sponsors, Inc. to learn more about what goes into doing great cause marketing—the kind of campaigns where everyone benefits and everyone wins.   Jodi Sommers, CPSM, Jodi Sommers Marketing Jodi Sommers spent the past twenty-five years providing her expertise to a diverse array of AEC firms. With a bachelor's degree in marketing from the University of Florida, she has dedicated her career to the art of marketing ever since. Jodi is a Certified Professional Services Marketer and a LEED Green Associate. She served as the President of the Southwest Oregon Chapter of the American Marketing Association and led a sustainable business organization in Eugene, Oregon for three years. In 2023, Jodi launched her consulting firm, Jodi Sommers Marketing, where she offers a comprehensive range of marketing services tailored to AEC firms. Her firm specializes in cause marketing, which integrates support for nonprofits with marketing and employee engagement goals. From strategic planning and project pursuits to client feedback surveys and cause marketing, Jodi is committed to helping her clients achieve success.   Megan Falkenstein, Sponsors, Inc. Megan Falkenstein, a native of Eugene, Oregon, has over a decade of experience as a professional fundraiser and communications director. She is deeply dedicated to her work, which has focused on creating unique visual brands and compelling donor-focused storytelling for social justice nonprofits. She has spent the last 5-years as the Development Director for Sponsors, Inc. A nonprofit whose mission is to provide wrap-around supportive services and housing to formerly incarcerated individuals in Lane County. In her free time, she enjoys walking her rambunctious rescue pup along the beautiful river bike path, seeing as much live music as possible, throwing killer parties, and volunteering year-round as the Oregon Country Fair Volunteer Crew Coordinator.   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Frank sits down with Laurie Lumish, Principal and Director of Marketing and Business Development at Degenkolb Engineers, and CFO Maury Ballif to explore the secrets of building a strong working relationship that sets a new industry standard. In this engaging conversation, you'll gain practical advice on enhancing your role within the company, developing empathy, mutual understanding, and fostering seamless collaboration between marketing and finance teams. Laurie and Maury address common challenges and offer strategies for overcoming them. Their combined experience provides valuable lessons for any professional aiming to strengthen team dynamics. Tune in for actionable tips to build your internal partnerships and achieve outstanding results.   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

In this follow-up episode, Frank and Deirdre dive deeper into how companies can effectively plan and execute their presence at conferences. Learn how to set SMART goals, craft a compelling message, and equip your team with effective conversation topics. Frank and Deirdre also discuss creating a staffing plan that balances attending sessions with manning the booth. This episode highlights important aspects such as ROI, achieving your overall conference goals, and more. Tune in for actionable advice that will elevate your conference strategy and drive impactful results.   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Frank and Deirdre share their insights on making the most out of your professional conference experience. They discuss strategic networking, setting realistic expectations, and engaging effectively with speakers. You'll also learn about the importance of taking notes and adhering to proper conference etiquette, especially during the final keynote session. Whether you're new to conferences or a seasoned pro, this episode is filled with valuable tips to enhance your participation and takeaway.   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Coffman Engineers is known for having some of the most talented, long-standing, happy marketers in A|E|C. And Chad Heimbigner, COO, and Board Director, is part of the reason why. From his heartfelt servant leadership to collaborative partnerships to lifelong learning, Chad embodies the best traits of a strong technical leader who stands by the team. Deirdre, Kate, and Chad talk about what makes a leader advocate and how to build an intentional, positive marketing/BD/leadership culture.   Coffman Engineers is a multidiscipline engineering consulting firm with almost 800 team members in 21 offices across the United States. Chad is also an active volunteer with several community organizations and serves on the University of Idaho Civil and Environmental Engineering Advisory Board.   Resources: Chad Heimbigner - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-heimbigner-96b76131/  Coffman Engineers - www.coffman.com  Gonzaga University, Women Lead Conferences - https://www.gonzaga.edu/school-of-leadership-studies/leadership-training-and-development/women-in-leadership/conferences-and-events  Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give to your younger self? Deirdre Booth and Kate Robinette swap professional and personal advice in this fireside chat. If you have advice to share, please post to our social media pages on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram #psmshow! Resources: Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle, by Emily and Amelia Nagoski (available on Amazon.)  First, Break All the Rules: What the World's Greatest Managers Do Differently, by Marcus Buckingham (available on Amazon) Citizenship in a Republic (The Man in the Arena), by Theodore Roosevelt Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Two theater kids walk into an AEC firm… Kathryn Ness visits Kayla McCause from Dragonfly AEC and Kate Robinette of GO Strategies about how they apply their performing arts training and experiences to their work in marketing and business development. These three get serious about play and the transferable skills of unusual backgrounds. Enter, stage right. Kayla has a background in theater and worked in corporate marketing, giving her an appreciation of both the art and analytics behind effective marketing strategies. Energetic and inquisitive, she challenges herself to continually learn and improve in work and life, whether through asking powerful questions or experiencing different cultures. With her unique mix of skills and perspectives, Kayla gives AEC firms the tools to expand their influence and grow their revenue. From helping firms grow and diversify their market share to delivering engaging training sessions, she applies a combination of optimism and objectivity that creates connection and drives results.  Kate is a theater nerd who learned about AEC marketing when a board member of the arts council where she worked suggested she talk to his marketing director. She quickly realized her linear thinking, strategic analysis, writing, and logistics management were a killer combination for helping to win work. She spent 20 years honing her craft. Now she helps companies strengthen their marketing and BD teams, culture, and employee engagement with the same combination of talents and a (slightly less) deadline-driven rigor.  Kayla McCause, MS, CPSM - Dragonfly AEC, https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaylamccause/   Kate Robinette, CPSM - GO Strategies, https://www.linkedin.com/in/karobinettecpsm/  Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

**Recorded live at the 2024 SMPS Pacific Regional Conference in Portland, Oregon** Ryn (Kathryn) Bennett, MPH, is a non-binary 40 under 40 award winner, world-record-holding strongman competitor, celebrated TEDx and Ignite speaker, and advocate for developing mental toughness. They are the author of Productive Pain, a personal memoir and inspirational guide. With a background in social and behavioral health and process improvement, Ryn's professional career spans industries including tech, healthcare, and engineering/construction. Ryn used the mental fortitude and tenacity they learned in the gym to advance their career and overcome burnout, working from an entry-level process improvement role into a director position. Ryn is a Certified Professional Services Marketer and is nationally ranked as a strongman competitor. They are passionate about helping others develop the mental tenacity and internal strength they need to succeed, no matter the adversity they're facing. The podcast picks up after Ryn's keynote. A few excerpts from the keynote have been included for context, but the podcast discussion does not depend on having heard the address. https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathrynbennettwrites/  Productive Pain, by Ryn Bennett (available on Amazon) https://www.proposalindustryexperts.com/  Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

You've heard of common sense and street sense. Get ready for farm sense, as doled out by SMPS Weld Cox awardee, Donna Corlew, FSMPS, CPSM. Learn how this self-described farm girl got her start, what she sees as the biggest changes in AEC marketing and BD, and what today's marketers can do for themselves to get ahead. Deirdre and Donna bless all the hearts in this uplifting look at our craft.   A native Tennessean, Donna Corlew's roots run deep in Southern hospitality, a culture of giving, and an abiding love of SEC football and Nashville Predators hockey. Don't let that Southern twang fool you – under the surface lies the heart and soul of a Steel Magnolia driven by a passion for coaching and helping architects, engineers, and builders identify and maximize their unique talents and expertise. She works with AEC firms across the country to focus strategic vision and market research, grow connections and chemistry with clients and prospects, and help technical staff and marketing and business development professionals to thrive and win profitable work. With over 700 technical professionals trained as effective doer-sellers, Donna brings an understanding of the AEC market and a proven track record of performance and results. https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnacorlew/  Resource links: Patrick Lencioni, The Ideal Team Player, available on amazon.com https://www.amazon.com/Ideal-Team-Player-Recognize-Cultivate-ebook/dp/B01B6AEJJ0   Catch Donna at these conferences:   https://convention.agc.org https://smps-serc.org  https://smpsmvrc.com https://smpsheartland.org  https://smpsheartland.org https://www.amplifyaec.org/   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

In today's episode, we have a case study on authentic and intentional leadership. Frank and Deirdre talk with Justin Conger, of Conger Construction, about leadership, decision making, culture, brand, and how marketing impacts a firm.   At the helm of Conger Construction Group, Justin Conger stands as a paragon of transformative leadership. His distinct approach, grounded in the principles of servant leadership, has been the compass guiding the company's ascent in the construction sector. With the conviction that true leadership stems from serving first, Justin continuously places the needs and professional growth of his team at the forefront. This ethos has not only fostered a culture of mutual respect, trust, and empowerment within Conger Construction Group but has also been instrumental in its sustained business expansion. https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-conger-27636614/    Resource links: Conger Construction: https://www.congerbuilt.com/  Vistage: https://www.vistage.com/  Off Balance, Matthew Kelly: https://www.amazon.com/Off-Balance-Work-Life-Professional-Satisfaction/dp/1942611331  The 5 Disfunctions of a Team, Patrick Lencioni: https://www.amazon.com/Five-Dysfunctions-Team-Leadership-Fable/dp/0787960756   

Ever wonder what it takes to be a leader? Deirdre and Kathryn explore what leadership means, how to become a leader, and what it takes to go beyond a title to truly lead. They also look behind the curtain on how leadership decisions are made. They bring their education, personal experiences, and practical tips to unlock the secrets of good leadership. As a partner in GO Strategies, Kathryn brings an energy and vitality to the team that significantly promotes the mission of “making everything about marketing and business development easier.” With more than 20 years in the A/E/C industry, Kathryn brings an in-the-trenches perspective for how things work and, more importantly, how things can work better. Her sense of humor is balanced with a sense of getting-the-job done. She is a strategic thinker, an excellent listener, and provides creative solutions that work, not abstract theory that sits on shelves. As a life-long learner, she is a certified professional services marketer (CPSM), certified professional life coach (CPLC), and a 6 Types of Working Genius facilitator. Kathryn is a frequent presenter and facilitator, in both the virtual and in-person environments, presenting at national and regional conferences, and at SMPS chapters Beyond work…she loves to scuba dive and is PADI rescue diver, has been called a gym-rat (rats love cheese!), and enjoys time with her 1-year-old grandson. She served a past chapter president for the SMPS Sacramento Chapter and is currently on a committee for APWA Sacramento Chapter.   Resources: Adam Grant, Think Again (available on Amazon) Patrick Lencioni, The Ideal Team Player (available on Amazon) Edgar Schein, Humble Inquiry (available on Amazon) Six Types of Working Genius: https://www.workinggenius.com/    Connect with Kathryn Ness: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-ness-cpsm-6a08928   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

What if your project summaries could proactively win work for you? Leslie Blaize, CPSM, is a case study specialist. She's sharing the secrets to making a compelling case study document that speaks to your company, your client, and prospective clients with her 1 case study = 3 wins techniques.   Resources: American Writers and Artists Institute - https://www.awai.com/  Casey Hibbard - https://www.compelling-cases.com/  SMPS Pacific Regional Conference - https://smps-prc.org/    Connect with Leslie Blaize: linkedin.com/in/freelance-writer-architecture-engineering-construction/     AEC Connect newsletter: Subscribe on LinkedIn  https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6947590700544704513    Website: blaizecommunications.com/    blaizecommunications@gmail.com   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Did you resolve to be better organized or have better follow-through in 2024? Frank and Kate share their tips for staying on top of email, scheduling, and to do items in practical, low key ways.   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com  

As another year comes to a close, Deirdre and Frank recap highlights of 2023 and expectations for 2024. It's a meaningful look at their professional and personal journeys. There's a little arm-chair market forecasting, a little lessons learned, and a lot of fun in this episode.   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com  

This is part two of a two-part series on interviews and interview coaching. Professional services marketers work with a team to position for a big pursuit, write a killer proposal and get shortlisted to interview. It's the last step in the process to winning the pursuit… and, honestly, it can be a lot of fun and/or a lot of work. There are multiple personas involved, lots of moving parts, and lots of pressure. Deirdre Booth and Kathryn Ness are interviewed by Frank Lippert to help marketers set the stage for success with this important job function.   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

This is part one of a two-part series on interviews and interview coaching. Professional services marketers work with a team to position for a big pursuit, write a killer proposal and get shortlisted to interview. It's the last step in the process to winning the pursuit… and, honestly, it can be a lot of fun and/or a lot of work. There are multiple personas involved, lots of moving parts, and lots of pressure. Deirdre Booth and Kathryn Ness are interviewed by Frank Lippert to help marketers set the stage for success with this important job function.   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Not sure what retirement holds for you? Or maybe you know someone that's just a little uncertain about what's next for them as they retire from professional services marketing? This podcast is for you. Frank talks to his friend and mentor, Laurin McCracken, who went from professional services marketing legend to one the top watercolor painters in the world in his retirement. This is a fun conversation about figuring out what to do in retirement, how to find fulfillment, and how to put your best professional services marketing skills to use for YOU!   In his first career, Laurin McCracken, FSMPS, was a renowned marketing and business development expert and a transformative leader in the Society for Marketing Professional Services (SMPS). Today, Laurin McCracken, AWS, NWS, is a realist watercolorist. His approach to still life painting emulates that of the Dutch and Flemish still life painters of the 16th and 17th centuries. He is a signature member of more than a dozen watercolor societies including the American Watercolor Society and the National Watercolor Society. His paintings have won multiple awards and have been included in competitive and invited exhibitions around the world. His paintings are in the permanent collections of the Watercolor Museum, Fabriano, Italy, The National Museum of China in Beijing, The Museum of the University of Mississippi and other institutions.   Resources: https://www.federalreserve.gov/monetarypolicy/publications/beige-book-default.htm    Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Meet another TankGirl Marketing team member, Sedona Scheopner! Kate and Sedona talk about transitioning into AEC marketing, staying motivated, achieving balance, and even a little AI on this fun, getting-to-know-you chat.   Sedona brings five years of marketing experience and a lot of enthusiasm to the TankGirl team. She is passionate about learning everything about marketing for the AEC industry. Sedona is engaging and easily connects with people of all backgrounds, ages, and walks of life, making her a natural marketer. Her superpower is her ability to coordinate with teams and clients and she is a GI Jane of All Trades--contributing to proposal management, social media campaigns, graphic design, communications, and pursuit strategy.   Sedona is a member of SMPS Arizona and has a passion for learning. She soaks up training and webinars and brings back the things she learns to share with the TankGirl team.   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Good research begins with a good framework. In the last episode of our Marketing/BD Plans series, Frank and Kate talk to Sarah Kinard of The Flamingo Project to get the facts about how to build those plans on good research. They talk about defining the use of the data before you start, reframing the questions to get out of the rabbit holes and back on track, and resources to get started.   Sarah Kinard, Head Bird at The Flamingo Project, is a strategic visionary who continues to build her career shaping strategy for professional service firms. Through research, fractional CMO and strategy, she is known as a change agent, tackling challenges with implementation at a scale her clients can handle. Sarah's curiosity, fail-forward/fail-fast approach, and desire to have fun in everything she does, are the hallmarks of how she "does it differently." Sarah served as President of SMPS Dallas, Now North Texas in 2021-2022 and currently serves as Secretary for the SMPS Foundation.   Resources: https://theflamingoproject.com/market-research-and-growth/  https://theflamingoproject.com/what-is-market-research-market-research-for-aec/  https://cart.smps.org/store/the-neuropsychology-of-influence-and-decision-making/852    Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

As part of our planning series, today we are discussing the ins and outs of Business Development plans. Why do you need one, what do they look like, what do you need to know, and how do you know if you have written a successful plan?   Deirdre interviews Frank about how a BD plan ties into your strategic and marketing plans and most importantly, how they  work together to accomplish great business development.   Rainmaking - by Ford Harding    Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Following up on the case study in Episode 254, we decided that maybe a little back-to-school education on Marketing Plans would be a good idea. This episode talks about what goes into a really good marketing plan, how to create one, get buy-in for it,  implement it, and keep it going through it's lifespan.   Frank interviews Deirdre and they talk about the lessons learned in doing a volume of marketing plans, in-house and as consultants. From marketing plans for expanding into existing markets and services to new market exploration, this podcast covers it all.   The Markendium books mentioned in the podcast are available at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C4XTZSH8    Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Marketing Plans are a great place where marketers set direction and prove their value. This podcast is a case study of a marketer writing their first marketing plan. We'll talk about the real-life process, the highs and lows, and the outcomes personally and professionally.   Katerina (Kat) Marovich joined Summit Engineering as an administrator and quickly became the firm's sole marketer. Kat has tackled it all from rebuilding the website, planning and hosting events, and developing the firm's Marketing and Business Development Plan. Find her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katerina-marovich-2638a0142/  Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

How do you find balance and success as a department of one? Vicki Menard, Maggie Thornton, and Jodi Sommers share the challenges and advantages of being a solo marketer with guest host, Kate Robinette. Variety is the spice of life.   Vicki Menard is the marketing director for Todd Construction. She has been using her storytelling skills in the construction industry for the past eight years, since transitioning from a long career as a daily newspaper editor and reporter. She is the proud mother of adult identical twin daughters and a descendant of Oregon Trail pioneers. https://www.linkedin.com/in/vickimenard/  www.toddconstruction.com    Maggie Thornton, CPSM, oversees marketing and business development for Westlake Consultants. Her core responsibilities include day-to-day marketing and proposal development, firm communications, business development planning and recruitment efforts, as well as helping to develop company initiatives, practices, and policies. She joined Westlake Consultants in 2010 and was named an Associate Principal in 2020. https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggie-thornton-cpsm-232bb213/  www.westlakeconsultants.com    Jodi Sommers, CPSM, LEED Green Associate, is a textbook example of a serial solo marketer. She was the first marketer hired at four separate AEC companies, where she ran her department of one. She has represented architects, contractors, sustainable design firms and a wide variety of engineers, energy analysts and commissioning providers. She recently started her own consulting firm – Jodi Sommers Marketing – where she provides marketing strategy and consulting for AEC firms with a special emphasis on cause marketing, which is the art of supporting nonprofits and achieving marketing and employee engagement goals simultaneously. https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodi-sommers-cpsm-leed-green-associate-768b984/    Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

This episode goes deep. Frank and Deirdre dive into a question that super-hero author/podcaster/researcher Brene Brown poses: In general, are people really doing the best they can with the tools they have in the moment? So many angles to this, so many take-aways, and so much empathy. Come learn how to be a better human. Resources: The Collaborative Way by Floyd and Jason Fickett (available on Amazon) Brené Brown "Unlocking Us" podcast https://brenebrown.com/podcast-show/unlocking-us/    Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

This episode talks about the grind and figuring out how to get the job done even when it it's the last thing you want to do. Deadlines are real, job performance matters, and sometimes people suck. You're stuck. We've been there, let's unstick it. Resources: Burnout by Emily and Ameilia Nagoski (available on Amazon) The Middle by Jimmy Eat World (song) Rage Against the Machine (rock band) Breathwork: www.webmd.com or www.everydayhealth.com    Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Recorded earlier this year during the week ahead of Mother's Day, Frank and Faith talk to two of the Super Moms in our network. In Part 2 of our Super Moms series, they talk to Bethany Rustic Smith of Energy Systems Group (ESG). Bethany offers great advice on managing a career at full-throttle and making time for three kids. The conversation is rich with relationship advice, parenting ups and downs, and real-life wisdom.   Bethany Smith, FSMPS, CPSM, is a 25-year construction industry veteran, having built her Marketing and Corporate Communication career with construction giants Messer Construction Co. and Turner Construction Co. Now embarking on a new challenge, Bethany has taken the role of Strategic Marketing Leader at ESG where she leads the company's marketing and communication efforts throughout the country.   Bethany is a graduate of the Cincinnati Chamber's "We Lead" program and was named one of Cincinnati's Forty Under 40 by the Cincinnati Business Courier. In April of 2005 during her term as President of the SMPS Greater Cincinnati Chapter, she received the Certified Professional Services Marketer designation from the Society of Marketing Professional Services, and in 2014 was named a Fellow - one of her most prized accomplishments. Bethany Rustic Smith: www.linkedin.com/in/bethanyrusticsmith/  Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Recorded earlier this year, the week ahead of Mother's Day, Frank and Faith talk to two of the Super Moms in our network. The first conversation is with Jennifer Hebblethwaite who demonstrated all the stages of mom-ness for her two daughters. She talks candidly and honestly about some of the struggles with going back to work and the seasons of life we all experience. Part 1 of our Super Moms series.   As a principal and Director of Storytelling at Page, Jennifer's goal is to expand the firm's impact by capturing, developing, and sharing narratives that inspire and excite employees and clients, reinforcing brand messaging across every platform. She is a rogue academic at heart. She has spent 10 years in academia teaching everything from playwriting and storytelling to MBA Leadership/Communication on an undergraduate and graduate level. As a self-proclaimed “arbiter of good,” she hopes to create harmony between internal messaging, marketing, communications, business development, and the work Page's teams create.   Jennifer Hebblethwaite: www.linkedin.com/in/jen-hebblethwaite-1679aab/  Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

How to use the bluntness from Episode 247 to have difficult conversations - whether with your boss, your coworkers, your staff, or your client. Recommeded resources: The Power of Vulnerability - https://brenebrown.com/book/the-power-of-vulnerability/  The Collaborative Way - https://collaborativeway.com/  Brené Brown TedTalk - https://www.ted.com/talks/brene_brown_the_power_of_vulnerability/c Brené Brown Call to Courage on Netflix   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

On this episode, Frank and Deirdre talk about communicating directly. They dive into how to manage reactions to it, how to deal with the consequences, how to use bluntness for good versus evil, and the gift of honesty. Recommended reading: Radical Candor, by Kim Scott - available on Amazon Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com

Frank and Deirdre talk with Marci Thompson, SMPS' Chief Strategy Officer, about what happens behind the scenes to deliver great events like SMPS Amplify AEC and the Pinnacle Experience. As usual, the conversation goes deep and Marci gets real about how things happen, about change, and about keeping your head above water when you're in rough seas. It's an entertaining and thoughtful (as well as thought-provoking) conversation.   https://www.linkedin.com/in/marci-thompson/   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com  

Ryan Konst has spent the last 20+ years in the AEC industry, all with Schaefer. He started out as an engineering co-op and went full-time as an engineer upon graduating from the University of Cincinnati. He moved through the engineering ranks and into a leadership position focusing primarily on strategy, planning, and revenue generation. In his current role as executive vice president for Schaefer, he is responsible for guiding the firm's strategic growth and vision for the future. He started as a structural engineer and quickly realized that to grow the company and his career, he needed to learn and do more on the business of bringing in business. Thus began his journey into business development, nurturing client relationships, and creating a valuable network. Frank, Kate, and Ryan talk about Ryan's journey and his success through relationship building.   https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryankonst/   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com  

Part 2 on our discussion about recruiting best practices, we shift the focus from job postings to using the company brand in the recruiting effort and what that means. Rachel Kennedy combines her background in recruiting and a love of marketing together to help growing businesses attract the right talent. Deirdre, Kathryn, and Rachel talk about the four Ps of recruiting success, the commonalities between marketing and recruiting, generational differences of candidates, and building a beautiful candidate experience.   https://southernlighthouse.com/   LinkedIn for Marketers free download. https://fabulous-producer-1804.ck.page/c19763d6bc   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com  

Katrina (Kat) Kibben is an award-winning writer and keynote speaker known for helping hiring teams write inclusive, unbiased job postings that help them hire the right person faster. Before founding Three Ears Media, Katrina was a CMO, Technical Copywriter, and Managing Editor for leading companies like Monster.com, Care.com, and Randstad Worldwide. Today, Katrina is frequently featured as an HR and recruiting expert in publications like The New York Times, Chicago Tribune, and Forbes.  She spoke at the SMPS Pinnacle Experience in November 2022, and what she shared about writing effective job postings was so profound, we had to get her on the podcast. Deirdre Gilmore and guest host, Kathryn Ness, get some great tips and life advice from Kat, including this entry in our "Memorable Quotes of 2023" list: Do your best and then to hell with it. https://www.threeearsmedia.com/about.html  [Also pick up the free ebook on their website on how to make your job postings better and why] www.trends.google.com  www.indeed.com  Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

In this final episode of the Career Path series, Frank interviews Kristi Bigelow, Marketing Manager at TankGirl, about her career development experience in A/E/C. Self-proclaimed engineering nerds, Frank and Kristi discuss the more interesting aspects of civil works projects and how to develop relationships and work more effectively with technical experts. Kristi Bigelow, PMP, can be found on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristi-bigelow-pmp-4080a39  Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Dean Hyers' background is almost stranger than fiction. He's worked as a film director, coached courtroom presence, developed closing arguments for trials, and taught acting to covert government agents. Troy Parkinson has his own arts-to-AEC journey as a film producer for Discovery Health and the History Channel and the Director of Production for the Minnesota film commission. Now they teach, coach, and inspire AEC professionals to win more business by maximizing their confident presence. Dean and Troy chat with Kate Robinette about team unity, authenticity, culture, theater, film, and more leading up to their keynote address at SMPS Southeast Regional Conference 2023. SMPS SERC is the sponsor of this episode: https://smps-serc.org/  For a complimentary copy of SagePresence's book, Winning Virtual AEC Interviews, grab this code PSMSHOW-SERC23 and go to sagepresence.com/shop (shipping not included). Offer valid through March 22, 2023, at the close of SMPS SERC. Also recommended:Be Here Now by Ram Dass [available on Amazon] https://blog.sagepresence.com/blog https://improv.com/  and local improv Facebook groups Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Cylk Cozart is a renaissance man -- an actor, director, producer, writer, and basketball player with a genuine passion for living. His life's journey hasn't always been an easy one, but his resilience, determination, and kindness have become his approach to everything. Cylk will be a keynote presenter at the March 2023 SMPS Southeast Regional Conference, speaking on The Art of Compassion and Empathy Shared Through Film. Join Deirdre Gilmore and Kathryn Ness as they share stories, hear some life lessons, and get inspired by Cylk. SMPS SERC is the sponsor of this episode: https://smps-serc.org/  Cylk Cozart: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cylk-cozart-b6a22b29 / Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

The longest journey by motorcycle in a single country by an individual is 132,928 km (82,598 mi) and was achieved by Dana D'Arcy in the USA, from 3 April 2022 to 5 August 2022. Dana discovered this Guinness World Record in 2016 and set a personal goal to beat it. But it wasn't until around 2018 that she felt she could even attempt it. Unfortunately because of the pandemic, she had to wait until 2022. In August of 2022, she rode over 80,000 miles in 125 days on a 2020 Harley Davidson Road Glide Limited. Listen in as Deirdre gets the full story and inspiration from Dana. Lesson learned: you can do hard things. Rides: https://www.hokaheychallenge.com/    https://www.ironbutt.org/  Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

In our best jobs, we have friends at work. But what happens when one of your friends becomes your boss? Or what happens when you and your boss start to become friends? Listen in as Frank and Kate talk about the one tool that helped them preserve the friendship and the working relationship over the years. Resource: Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus [available on Amazon] Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com  

Why is being a manager almost as scary as speaking in public? And why are we struggling to do this well? We've seen the research - people don't leave their jobs, they leave their managers. But what if managing others was a team effort? What if it worked like a theater production and you are part of an ensemble cast? Join Mary Abbajay, author of "Managing Up: How to Move Up, Win at Work, and Succeed with Any Type of Boss" as she and guest host, Kate Robinette, talk about where to start, the roles we play, and how to make work relationships work. https://careerstonegroup.com/about-management.html  mary@careerstonegroup.com  Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Deirdre and Frank reflect on 2022 and dream about what is ahead for 2023. They talk about personal and professional growth, lessons learned, and the play of randomness and intention that brings surprising results. It's a warm, sincere conversation between two good friends that's as rich and filling as a cup of homemade hot cocoa. Grab a holiday cookie, and a fuzzy blanket, and join the fireside chat. Morrissey Goodale Word on the Street: https://www.morrisseygoodale.com/resources/wots/  Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com