The Beacon Way

From Newsroom to Purpose-Driven Storytelling | Michael's Journey with Bipolar Advocacy & Media EntrepreneurshipIn this episode of The Beacon Way: Founders Edition, we sit down with Michael, co-CEO of Pizzetta Media, who shares his remarkable transformation from a seasoned news professional to a purpose-driven entrepreneur amplifying mental health voices.Michael opens up about his diagnosis with bipolar disorder, his journey through stigma in the corporate world, and how he turned personal struggles into a mission to uplift others. This conversation dives deep into mental health in the workplace, entrepreneurship with a cause, and finding harmony between family life and business.

Empowering Men's Mental Health: A Conversation with Justin GarberIn this episode of the Beacon Way podcast, we are joined by Justin Garber, a clinical psychologist with over a decade of experience in various settings, including the Department of Veteran Affairs. Justin, who specializes in the relationship between psychological stress and the body's response system, shares his personal journey into the field of psychology and the founding of Restorative Psychological Services. The discussion delves into the unique challenges and strategies for engaging men in psychotherapy, as well as the importance of mental health awareness across different generations. Justin also shares insights into managing work-life balance as an entrepreneur and highlights the importance of focusing on core values and mission in business. Tune in for an enlightening conversation on mental health and entrepreneurship.00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:44 Justin's Journey into Psychology04:20 Veterans Affairs and Personal Connection06:54 Starting Restorative Psychological Services08:37 Challenges and Rewards of Entrepreneurship12:54 Focus on Men's Mental Health17:56 Balancing Work and Personal Life24:47 Empowering Employees and Final ThoughtsBooks referenced in today's podcast: https://www.aileadership.com/bookhttps://www.amazon.com/Who-Not-How-Accelerating-Teamwork-ebook/dp/B0867ZJ151https://www.amazon.com/Myth-Revisited-Small-Businesses-About/dp/0887307280https://www.amazon.com/ONE-Thing-Surprisingly-Extraordinary-Results/dp/1885167776Learn more about Justin and Restorative Psychological Services:https://restorativepsychservices.com/justin-garber-psyd/_____________________________________________________________________Beacon Media + Marketing is an Alaska-based digital marketing agency with a proven track record of success, harnessing the power of data and award-winning creative to deliver outstanding results for our clients. It all starts with data, because data drives results! We are a data-driven agency because we know that in the business world, success is measured by the numbers. We pride ourselves in award-winning work that marries the best of data analytics with stunning creative to deliver the right message, at the right time, to the right demographic. Our power lies in the clicks, leads, engagement, and conversions we produce for our clients!Learn more about us at BeaconMM.com

The Beacon Way Podcast: Navigating Wellness for First Responders with Dr. Carrie Steiner Welcome back to the Beacon Way podcast! In this episode, we continue our founders' edition with special guest Dr. Carrie Steiner, founder of the First Responders Wellness Center and a licensed clinical psychologist with 13 years of experience as a Chicago police officer. Dr. Steiner shares her journey from the police force to establishing a wellness center dedicated to helping first responders. She discusses the critical need for mental health support in the community, the challenges of finding the right clinicians, and how her center provides specialized care for police, firefighters, and paramedics. Dr. Steiner also highlights the importance of self-belief and community support when starting a business. Tune in for an insightful conversation about the intersection of mental health and first responder culture. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome01:54 Inspiration Behind First Responders Wellness Center03:21 Challenges and Realizations in the Field05:40 Establishing the Wellness Center10:34 Growth and Expansion19:00 Balancing Roles and Responsibilities26:48 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs27:23 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, host Adrienne Wilkerson welcomes James Barry, founder, and CEO of Pluck Superfood Seasonings. James shares his journey from being a professional chef in Hollywood for nearly 20 years to founding Pluck. He explains the initial inspiration behind Pluck, which began with his desire to find nutritious food for his family, particularly organ meats. James elaborates on the challenges he faced, such as starting his business during COVID, the lessons learned from his previous meal delivery service, and the importance of incorporating health and family into his business plan. He discusses the efficacy of Pluck in providing nutrient-dense foods easily and the positive impact it has had on its customers. James also touches on his podcast 'Everyday Ancestral,' the importance of valuing one's journey, and respecting others' progress in their entrepreneurial paths.Website - https://eatpluck.com/Amazon- https://www.amazon.com/pluck-organ-meat-seasoning/s?k=pluck+organ+meat+seasoningPodcast -https://eatpluck.com/everydayancestral/Company Socials - @eatpluckPersonal Social - chefjamesbarry00:00 Welcome to the Beacon Way Podcast00:31 Meet James Barry: From Hollywood Chef to Entrepreneur00:58 The Birth of Pluck Superfood Seasonings10:06 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Success12:26 Balancing Health, Family, and Business18:19 Launching a Business During COVID20:58 The Power of Podcasting in Marketing22:02 The Vulnerability of Entrepreneurship22:42 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome25:52 The Importance of Honoring Your Experience30:16 Balancing Growth and Sustainability36:51 Effective Customer Service Strategies40:49 Conclusion and Where to Find Us

Welcome to another insightful episode of the Beacon Way Podcast! In this episode, Adrienne is joined by Chris Maliszewski, founder of the Walking Tall Movement. Together, they discuss Chris's journey as a survivor of the tragic Highland Park mass shooting in 2022, how this experience inspired the creation of the Walking Tall Movement, and the challenges of navigating mental health while running a business.Chris and Adrienne dive deep into topics like vulnerability, the importance of human connection, and the struggles of being an entrepreneur. They explore how trauma can be transformed into a force for good, the challenges of founding a movement, and why it's essential to talk openly about mental health. They also reflect on the power of community, relationships, and small businesses to drive change.Tune in for a candid conversation on resilience, healing, and making a positive impact in the world.

Navigating Entrepreneurship & Parenthood with Dr. Melvin Varghese | Beacon Way PodcastJoin Adrian Wilkerson on The Beacon Way Podcast as he chats with Dr. Melvin Varghese, a licensed psychologist and founder of the Selling the Couch podcast. Dr. Varghese shares his journey of transitioning from a traditional clinical career to creating a top-rated podcast aimed at helping therapists build online income. They delve into the challenges and dynamics of being a working dad, especially in the context of navigating a premature birth and childcare, and discuss the evolving roles of working parents in today's society. The conversation also touches on the cultural nuances of caregiving, with Dr. Varghese discussing his plans to offer executive coaching to Indian founders and executives. An inspiring and insightful episode for anyone balancing career and family!Melvin Varghese, PhD is a licensed psychologist in Philadelphia, PA.In 2015, Dr. Varghese founded Selling The Couch, a podcast to help therapists move from clinical to online income.On the podcast, he interviews successful practitioners about how they've built their practices, social media/marketing experts, and shares lessons as he uses our clinical skills to create an online business powered by podcasting + online courses.The podcast is one of the top Career podcasts in Apple Podcasts, has been downloaded over 1.8 million times, and is heard in over 125 countries.Dr. Varghese also founded several resources for therapists transitioning from the therapist chair to online income including a podcasting community for therapists that's supported over 240 therapist podcasters, an online course mastermind for therapists launching their first online course (50+ students), and a mastermind for veteran course creators to find support growing and scaling their course.00:00 Introduction and Guest Background01:37 The Journey to Podcasting Success02:52 Balancing Parenthood and Career06:34 Navigating Work-Life Harmony23:45 Cultural Insights and Executive Coaching32:30 Conclusion and Future Plans

Welcome to the Beacon Way Podcast! In this episode, we have the incredible Sean and Angie Taylor joining us to discuss niche marketing, business entrepreneurship, their founder's journey, and how their Christian counseling service, Cornerstone, came to be. Discover their inspiring story of overcoming stigma in mental health, navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship, and integrating faith with clinical expertise to transform lives. Learn about their struggles, the importance of having an abundance mindset, and how they balance marriage and business. Tune in for an enlightening and uplifting conversation! 00:00 Welcome to the Beacon Way Podcast00:47 Sean and Angie's Entrepreneurial Journey03:52 Founding Cornerstone and Overcoming Stigmas07:46 The Role of Faith in Counseling12:07 Challenges and Growth in Business25:36 Balancing Marriage and Business29:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The Future of Mental Health: Insights from the 2025 State of Mental Health ReportIn this episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, Jennifer hosts Brandon and Sanjana to discuss the findings of the 2025 report on mental health insurance and marketing trends. Sanjana, co-founder of Thrizer, and Brandon, owner of BG Copywriter, provide an overview of the report's key insights, including the challenges faced by clinicians with insurance, the growing trend of private pay, and potential innovations to improve the mental health industry's sustainability and accessibility. The conversation also covers the significant frustrations clinicians experience with insurance hurdles, the necessity of better data and stories behind the statistics, and potential improvements for future reports and industry practices. 00:00 Welcome and Introductions00:56 Overview of Thrizer and the 2025 Report02:12 Challenges with Insurance in Mental Health03:24 Insights from the 2025 Report03:36 Brandon's Perspective and Surprising Findings07:28 Feedback and Reception of the Report10:07 Future Directions and Improvements14:44 Addressing Out of Network Benefits21:43 Concluding Thoughts and Next Steps

In this episode of The Beacon Way podcast, we're joined by Daniel Sorochkin, the founder and CEO of TakeOne. TakeOne is revolutionizing the way service providers create professional introduction videos, focusing on authenticity and trust in the digital world. Daniel shares insights from his previous venture, Tiny Giraffe Pictures, his transition to TakeOne, and the importance of maintaining customer service excellence. He also discusses overcoming early challenges, leveraging AI, and educating the next generation in an AI-influenced world. Join us as we explore these topics and more with Daniel.https://www.takeone.video/ 00:00 Welcome to the BeaconWay Podcast00:13 Meet Daniel from TakeOne00:54 The Story Behind Tiny Giraffe Pictures03:09 The Birth of TakeOne05:36 Challenges and Early Days09:41 Ensuring Authenticity in the AI Era21:21 Transitioning from Tiny Giraffe to TakeOne26:02 Evolving as a CEO28:56 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Join host Jennifer on the Beacon Way Podcast as she converses with Melissa Rosenthal about navigating market pivots, the challenges of being a woman entrepreneur, current market trends, and the impact of AI on marketing and business. Melissa shares her journey from media to B2B SaaS, her experience building Outleaver, and the importance of trusting your gut in career and market shifts. This episode dives into the shifting paradigms of marketing in today's world, the balance between human interaction and AI integration, and the evolving dynamics of business relationships. Melissa Rosenthal: linkedin.com/in/melissarosenthal5Outlever: https://outlever.com/00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:27 Guest Introduction: Melissa Rosenthal01:21 Melissa's Background and Career Journey02:21 The Concept of Outleaver04:54 The Importance of Trusting Your Gut08:01 Challenges and Pivots in Business14:12 The Role of AI in Marketing20:32 Women in Leadership and Entrepreneurship27:31 Conclusion and Parting Words

The Mental Health Business: You Must Do Well – To Do GoodWelcome to the Beacon Way Podcast Executive Series! In this insightful episode, we sit down with Christina Zampitella, owner of a successful mental health and behavioral health practice, to discuss her journey from launching her own practice to building a thriving group practice with the help of Beacon's marketing strategies. Christina shares her compelling story about the challenges and triumphs of starting a new business during the uncertainties of COVID-19, finding the right marketing partner, and the importance of having a balance between helping people and ensuring financial stability. We dive deep into her experiences of leveraging Beacon's tailored marketing efforts, tracking feedback, and making pivotal decisions to maximize her impact on helping the community. Discover the transformative power of authenticity, collaboration, and resilience from Christina's personal anecdotes of overcoming hurdles in both professional and personal life, including her battle with cancer. She touches upon the significant role her podcast has played in expanding her reach and impacting more lives. This episode is rich with valuable lessons on growth, partnership, and the meaningful pursuit of making a substantial impact in the mental health world. Whether you own a business or are looking for inspiration to fuel your passion, this discussion is not to be missed!Guest name: Dr. Christina Zampitella, FTFounder & Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Fellow of Thanatology  Bio: I'm a thanatologist, which is a psychologist that specializes in trauma, death, loss, and grief. I've worked in mental health for almost 30 years in a variety of settings, working with bereaved individuals as well as people who are processing things like depression, anxiety, relationship issues, and more. I use an individualized approach that takes each persons' mind, body, and spirit into account. I also value diversity and enjoy working with people from all cultures, backgrounds, genders, and religions. I started Center for Grief and Trauma therapy in 2019 after experiencing loss and discovering a passion for thanatology. I realized there was a need for specialist grief and trauma support. Expertise and creativity are at the core of my practice and I lead the team with authenticity, vision, and passion.  Links: https://www.centerforgrieftherapy.com/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-jU_InSFb-lXZhRkWaDDIw 00:00 Welcome to the Beacon Way Podcast00:57 Christina's Journey with Beacon02:00 Navigating Business and Marketing Challenges03:59 The Impact of Effective Marketing06:02 Collaboration and Continuous Improvement10:09 Personal and Professional Growth19:30 Overcoming Challenges and Building Relationships28:15 Unexpected Podcast Success29:18 Embracing Authenticity30:12 Balancing Personal Disclosure31:47 The Power of Storytelling32:57 Navigating Professional Boundaries35:17 Impact of Authenticity37:20 Podcasting and Community Building38:09 Finding Meaning in Loss39:32 Challenges and Growth41:43 Rediscovering Purpose53:05 Advice to My Younger Self

Building Resilience and Disrupting HR with Chrissy Myers | The Beacon Way PodcastIn this episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, host Adrian welcomes Chrissy Myers, CEO of AUI and Clarity HR, and author of 'Reluctantly Resilient'. Chrissy shares her journey of taking over and scaling her family business, starting a new venture, and leading through personal and professional challenges. They discuss the importance of resilience, authenticity in leadership, and navigating the evolving HR landscape. Tune in to hear Chrissy's insights on managing generational businesses, the impact of the pandemic on work environments, and the critical role of peer groups for business leaders.About Chrissy Myers: Chrissy is the author of Reluctantly Resilient and the CEO of AUI and Clarity HR which serve small and medium sized businesses in both for profit and non-profit sectors in the areas of Human Resources and Employee Benefits.  Chrissy describes herself as the chief cheerleader setting direction, steering marketing content, and finding creative ways to disrupt two established business sectors.  Chrissy is also the author of AUI Gives Back & Clarity Cares two community impact programs where employees serve in the community, track their impact and share what they are doing on behalf of their customers.  Around Akron Chrissy works to leave her community a better place.  She is a graduate of Leadership Ohio, Torchbearers, Leadership Akron, Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses, Sclaerator NEO and Community Leadership Institute.  She has received the 30 for the Future Award from the Greater Akron Chamber and an Achievement on Excellence Award from National Sales and Marketing Executives.  As an advocate for families struggling with addiction and mental health issues, Chrissy currently serves as Chair for the County of Summit Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services Board, and is a member of the Board of Directors for the Greater Akron Chamber and Goodwill Industries of Northeast Ohio.  Previously Chrissy has served on the Board or Committees for Jobs for Ohio Graduates, Red Oak Behavioral Health, Community Partnership of Summit County, and Social Venture Partners. Chrissy received her bachelor's in business administration from John Carroll University and her MBA from the University of Akron.  When she is not plotting world domination of the insurance industry or volunteering in the community Chrissy can be found at home with Team Awesome Sauce including Steve, her husband, two kiddos - Maddy & Caleb.  Purchase Chrissy's Book Here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D4RHL17L?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_4FJ68Q15WSE8XVMMHHCQ&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_4FJ68Q15WSE8XVMMHHCQ&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_4FJ68Q15WSE8XVMMHHCQ&bestFormat=true00:00 Introduction to the Beacon Way Podcast00:46 Chrissy Myers' Background and Journey01:57 Generational Business and AUI's History04:11 Launching Clarity HR07:07 Navigating HR Challenges During COVID-1914:54 Resilience and Leadership as a CEO18:16 Navigating Entrepreneurial Challenges18:40 The Myth of Perfection in Business19:25 Authenticity in Leadership20:08 Balancing Transparency and Leadership20:56 Building Resilient Teams23:05 The Reality of Startup Life24:53 Managing Growth and Transitions26:41 The Entrepreneurial Mindset34:32 The Importance of Peer Groups

In this episode of the Beacon Way podcast, host Jennifer is joined by Colin Jeffries to delve into various aspects of marketing within the healthcare and behavioral health sectors. They discuss Colin's podcast, the 'Rethink Marketing Podcast,' which has reached six successful seasons. Colin shares his journey in healthcare marketing, starting from his tenure at an orthopedic sports medicine practice to his current leadership role at BrightView Health. They talk about the transformative influence of telehealth and the evolving marketing strategies in the addiction treatment industry. Colin emphasizes the importance of optimizing conversion rates and collaborating with other providers to enhance the overall industry. They also touch on the impact and ethical considerations of AI in marketing. The episode concludes with insights into Colin's book 'Collecting Jelly Beans' and how to connect with him.

Unmasking the Behavioral Health Crisis: An In-Depth Discussion with TPN Health's Trevor ColhounJoin your host Jennifer on The Beacon Way Podcast as she chats with Trevor Colhoun from TPN Health Trusted Provider Network. In this episode, they delve into the complexities of the behavioral health market, discussing issues with insurance, matching patients with the right care, and the role of marketing. Trevor shares the foundation and mission of TPN Health, aiming to bring transparency, connectivity, and value to the behavioral health ecosystem. Learn about the current frustrations, the disconnect between providers, insurance companies, and patients, and discover innovative solutions that TPN Health is implementing to drive better outcomes in behavioral health.

From Battle to Balance: A Veteran's Journey Through EMDR and TherapyJoin Jennifer on The Beacon Way Podcast as she delves into an enlightening conversation with Christopher Brown of Peak Psychotherapy. Christopher shares his compelling journey from military service and battling PTSD to becoming a licensed therapist specializing in EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing). Learn about the profound impact of EMDR on trauma recovery, the science behind its effectiveness, and its connections to ancient healing practices. Additionally, discover how psychedelic-assisted therapy is emerging as a powerful complementary tool in the realm of mental health. Christopher provides a deep dive into these therapeutic modalities and emphasizes the importance of integration and community support in the healing process. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in innovative approaches to mental health and trauma recovery.Guest Christoper Brown linkedin.com/in/cdbrownvetWebsitespeakpsychotherapy.co (Company)growingveterans.org (Company)Emailchris@peakpsychotherapy.cohttps://www.peakpsychotherapy.co/https://growingveterans.org/

Overcoming Trauma and Thriving in Uncertainty with Johnny CrowderIn this empowering episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, host Jennifer welcomes Johnny Crowder, a mental health advocate, speaker, and founder of Cope Notes. Johnny shares his inspiring journey from a tumultuous childhood and severe mental illness to becoming a beacon of hope and mental wellness. He discusses the challenges and breakthroughs of living authentically, the importance of taking responsibility for one's healing journey, and how Cope Notes delivers daily text messages to foster healthier thoughts. Johnny also opens up about the recent loss of his home to a hurricane and his ongoing efforts to find strength in uncertainty. This episode is filled with profound insights on resilience, anti-fragility, and living a life of true freedom.Johnny Crowder Contact Info:linkedin.com/in/johnnycrowderWebsitesjohnnycrowder.com (Personal)copenotes.com (Company)Emailjohnny@copenotes.com

In this episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, Adrienne Wilkerson dives deep into LegitScript certification, detailing its importance for healthcare businesses. She explains how it enhances credibility, ensures compliance with industry regulations, and is essential for marketing healthcare services online. Adrienne highlights the rigorous certification process, including application submission, on-site inspections, and ongoing monitoring, to ensure high standards are maintained. The discussion also covers the specific benefits for addiction treatment providers, challenges in obtaining certification, and how to leverage LegitScript in marketing efforts. This comprehensive guide is crucial for any healthcare business looking to elevate its trustworthiness and visibility in the competitive online marketplace.

In this episode of the BeaconWay podcast, Adrienne Wilkerson delves into the impact of AI on content marketing, particularly in the behavioral health sector. Addressing the question of whether AI signifies the end of content marketing or a new frontier, Adrienne explores how AI enhances personalization, streamlines processes, and improves efficiency for behavioral health clinics. Despite these advancements, she emphasizes the importance of human creativity, empathy, and emotional connection in content marketing. Adrienne highlights the increasing accessibility of AI tools, the need for effective prompting, and the critical balance between AI-generated data and human touch to create impactful marketing strategies. Join us to discover how AI can be an asset rather than a threat to content marketing and learn practical tips for integrating AI into your marketing efforts.Key Points- Introduction to AI's impact on content marketing with host Adrienne Wilkerson. - Examination of whether AI is a threat or an opportunity in content marketing. - AI's potential to transform behavioral health clinics' approach to marketing and patient engagement. - Benefits of AI: enhancing personalization, streamlining processes, and improving efficiency. - Discussion on the importance of humanizing AI-generated content. - Accessibility of AI tools for businesses of all sizes, including small practices. - Key ways AI improves content marketing: data analysis, trend identification, initial drafts, and automation. - The necessity of correct prompting when using AI tools. - Shift in consumer behavior: from search engines to AI models for information. - The role of AI in automating routine tasks, freeing up time for creativity and strategy. - AI's role in enhancing patient engagement through interactive channels like chatbots and personalized emails. - Challenges of AI: struggling to replicate empathy and emotional connection. - Emphasis on human oversight and customization to ensure effective and appropriate content. - Recommendations for balancing human creativity with AI assistance for optimal content marketing.

In this episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, the host welcomes SEO and copywriting expert Krista Walsh. They discuss the complexities and myths around SEO, especially in the context of AI's growing influence. Krista shares insights into effective SEO practices, cautioning against quick-fix methods, and highlights Google's recent updates targeting AI-generated content. They explore the importance of user experience (UX) and clear messaging in converting website visitors, particularly in the mental health sector. Krista also shares her personal journey into SEO, her focus on healthcare and mental health, and practical ways she uses AI to enhance, but not dominate, her content creation. The conversation includes thoughts on content strategies and the beneficial use of LinkedIn for B2B engagement.Krista Walsh Copywriter Links:https://kristawalshcopywriter.com/website-agencyhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/krista-walsh-aa1b8a1a9/https://www.instagram.com/kristawalshcopywriter/SEO and AI in MarketingSEO remains confusing for many, especially practice owners and marketers unfamiliar with its intricacies.AI has added new complexities, often tempting businesses to use it as a quick fix to rank high on Google, similar to outdated "black-hat" SEO tricks.Recent Google algorithm updates target AI-generated content to demote low-quality, unhelpful content, reinforcing the need for user-focused, valuable information.Sustainable SEO StrategiesSEO should be viewed as a long-term strategy, aiming for steady, quality results instead of quick fixes.SEO's value lies in bringing relevant users to websites, but effective user experience (UX) and compelling content are essential to convert visitors.Examples of valuable SEO approaches include optimizing content for clarity, ensuring helpful navigation, and refining titles or headlines to maintain user engagement.Balanced Use of AI for Content CreationKrista outlines her approach to AI:AI is useful for tasks like summarizing studies or rewriting specific sections but not for generating complete or first drafts.Using AI sparingly in editing or research can streamline work while avoiding penalties from Google's algorithms.The ultimate goal remains creating high-quality, user-centered content that AI alone cannot produce effectively.The Power of Niche SEO and Personal MotivationKrista shares her journey into SEO, emphasizing her commitment to healthcare and mental health industries, driven by her personal experience and the desire to make a positive impact.Both hosts agree that having a niche and providing value within it attracts ideal clients, fosters credibility, and enables sustained business growth.LinkedIn and Social Media in Professional NetworkingKrista highlights LinkedIn as a valuable platform for B2B marketing, offering a less video-intensive format compared to other social media platforms.The hosts discuss ethical concerns about TikTok, particularly for professionals in sensitive fields like mental health, and the potential risks of providing advice on such platforms.Instagram remains effective for targeting specific demographics like teens and parents, especially in contexts like addiction recovery.Future Goals and Professional GrowthKrista plans to continue refining her business offerings rather than expanding into new services, aiming for excellence and long-term impact.She values simplicity and focuses on producing high-quality, effective solutions tailored to the needs of h

In this episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, CEO Adrienne Wilkerson dives into one of the biggest challenges entrepreneurs face: the transition from founder to CEO. Adrienne shares her personal journey with Beacon Media and Marketing, revealing the key traits and strategies needed to navigate the unique challenges of startup growth and leadership. Are you considering stepping into the CEO role, or maybe debating whether to hand off the reins? This episode is packed with insights on what it takes to lead, grow, and build resilience as a founder. Chapters:·  0:00 – Welcome to The Beacon Way Podcast·  1:15 – The Founder to CEO Transition: A Unique Journey·  2:45 – Sobering Stats: Why Most Founders Don't Become CEOs·  4:30 – The Two Types of Founders·  7:00 – Key Traits for Successful Founders: Innovation, Flexibility, & Adaptation· 9:30 – Getting Scrappy: Building with Limited Resources·  11:15 – Innovation & Creativity: Thriving in a New Market·  13:00 – Grit & Perseverance: Overcoming Startup Hurdles·  15:10 – Vision & Passion: The Real Why Behind Founding a Company·  17:50 – Founder Blind Faith: Embracing Naivety and Belief·  20:00 – Can a Company Outgrow Its Founder?·  21:30 – What's Next? Preview of Part 2 on Transitioning Roles Key Points:·The Founder to CEO Transition: Adrienne reflects on the personal and professional journey founders take when stepping into a CEO role, including the challenges and growth involved.·Statistics on Founder Longevity: Many founders don't remain CEOs; Adrienne shares insights from a Harvard article, with only 25% of founders leading their companies to IPOs.·Two Types of Founders:·Technician Founders: Focus on craft and production, leveraging technical skills and product expertise.·Visionary Founders: Focus on solving big problems, often driven by a desire to create change.·Traits of Successful Founders:·Innovation: Constantly creating new ideas to keep up with or stay ahead of market trends.·Flexibility: Adapting to shifting demands and unexpected challenges.·Adaptation: Continually testing, learning, and adjusting in response to market feedback.·Scrappiness: Adrienne shares the importance of resourcefulness, especially in the early days, like tackling office renovations on a tight budget.·Importance of Innovation in a New Market: As one of Alaska's first digital agencies, Adrienne explains how Beacon's creativity, like offering free marketing classes, helped them educate clients and build credibility.·Grit & Perseverance: Emphasizing resilience, Adrienne notes that startup life comes with many challenges, and perseverance is key to overcoming them.·Vision & Purpose: For most founders, having a strong "why" is critical to staying committed through difficult times—money alone isn't the driving force.·Founder's Blind Faith: Founders often need a certain level of faith and optimism, believing their vision will succeed despite the odds.When a Company Outgrows Its Founder: Adrienne introduces the idea that some companies eventually evolve beyond what the founder alone can provide, leading to decisions about leadership transition. 

THE BEACON WAY PODCAST: EPISODE 55Workaholism and Its Hidden Toll: Recognizing and Rebalancing for Healthier LivesIn this comprehensive episode, host Ken Okonek along with special guest Carmen Paredes, the first Latina vice president at a leading telecom company in Alaska, discuss the multifaceted issue of workaholism and the journey towards preventing burnout. The conversation explores the stark differences between being a hard worker and a workaholic, the role of dopamine, and the personal stories and underlying motivations behind excessive work habits. Key topics include recognizing work addiction early, the impact of upbringing on coping mechanisms, and practical strategies for setting professional boundaries and self-care. The episode also delves into the high costs of burnout on personal and organizational levels, emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and healthy behaviors for leaders, and offers insights into balancing work with personal well-being. Additionally, the speakers elaborate on the global epidemic of workaholism, the serious health risks it encompasses, and the importance of quality time with loved ones and setting boundaries for holistic recovery.About Our Guest: Carmen PerezAs the visionary behind Exceptional Leadership Solutions, Carmen's mission is to elevate leaders and organizations maximize return on investment. Her intuitive and intentional leadership techniques are designed to transcend the existing inefficient dynamics in interactions between leaders and employees.She's passionate about sharing the leadership principles and actionable skills she refined in over two decades as a successful executive and passionate leader.  These very skills have enabled her to achieve remarkable results, fostering high performing and engaged teams in even the most demanding and challenging environments.As a Latina leader recipient of the Volunteer Presidential Award, 2X TEDx speaker, award winning keynote speaker and best selling author, Carmen seamlessly integrates a diverse background, including an Engineering degree, an MBA, and a coaching certification accredited through the National Board of Certified Counselors.Key Points·  Personal Journeys and Challenges: Stories of becoming high achievers and the struggles of maintaining a balanced life while dealing with work addiction. ·  Recognizing Workaholism: Insights into identifying the signs of workaholism and its origins as a coping mechanism for emotional neglect. ·  Impact on Relationships: Exploration of how prioritizing work affects personal relationships and the importance of self-reflection and pruning social circles.·  Overcoming Burnout: Strategies for recognizing and combating burnout, including setting boundaries, managing energy, and finding mentors. ·  Achieving Balance: Tips on enjoying leisure time, engaging in self-care, and realizing that external achievements don't equate to lasting happiness.·  Practical Advice: Discussions on the benefits of managing workplace communications, shifting focus to outcomes over hours worked, and understanding personal peak energy times for better productivity. ·  Global Perspective: Addressing workaholism as a global issue and sharing strategies for safeguarding against it, including taking quality time off and creating accountability systems. Through personal anecdotes and professional insights, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how to achieve a healthier work-life balance and overcome the hustle mentality.

Join us in this insightful episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, where host Jennifer Christensen sits down with Sanjana, Co-Founder of Thrizer. Discover how Thrizer is transforming the therapy landscape by making out-of-network services straightforward and accessible for both therapists and clients. Dive into the origins of Thrizer, the challenges they've overcome, and the innovative solutions they're bringing to the mental health industry.What you'll learn:· Insights into the bootstrap approach, product development phases, and strategic decisions that have shaped Thrizer.· How Thrizer has achieved growth without venture capital and learn about their unique market approach and customer-centric focus.·  Valuable insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to make a significant impact in their industries.Key Points:· Inspiration for Thrizer: Personal challenges that led to the founding of Thrizer and its mission to improve the therapy process.· Mission and Impact: How Thrizer simplifies the out-of-network therapy experience for both therapists and their clients.· Product Development: Initial stages of building Thrizer, including key decision-making and the bootstrap approach to funding.· Growth Strategy: How Thrizer has grown organically without venture capital and their customer-centric focus.· Feedback and Market Response: The positive feedback from therapists and clients and how it has influenced Thrizer's services.· Expansion Plans: Future goals for expanding Thrizer's services into other therapeutic areas beyond mental health.· Advice for Entrepreneurs: Insights and practical advice for budding entrepreneurs on navigating challenges and enjoying the startup journey.

Join us for an enlightening episode of The Beacon Way Podcast, where host Jennifer Christensen explores the multifaceted journey of Peter House, Founder + CEO of DeepTree – an IT support service in Palmer, Alaska. Jennifer and Peter discuss real-world implications of starting and scaling a business, the critical importance of listening to the market, and how to leverage community and mentorship to propel business growth. Peter shares his personal experiences and the strategic decisions that have defined DeepTree's success, offering listeners a blend of motivational stories and practical advice.Key Points:·         Early Insights into IT and Education: Peter discusses his initial foray into the tech world, detailing how financial needs during his education led him to a tech support job.· The Leap into Entrepreneurship: Exploration of Peter's decision to start his own IT firm after recognizing the limited job opportunities in academia.· Challenges in Establishing DeepTree: Challenges faced and strategies employed in the initial stages of starting DeepTree, aligning IT services with evolving market demands.· Adopting a Customer-Centric Business Model: The significance of adapting services to meet customer needs and strategies for building long-term relationships.· Integrating Cybersecurity in Business Services: Discussion on the growing importance of cybersecurity within IT services and how DeepTree has responded.· Resilience and Adaptability in Business: How overcoming operational challenges and strategic decisions have played a crucial role in DeepTree's success.· Leveraging Market Feedback for Business Adaptation: How DeepTree uses customer and market feedback to refine and adapt business services.· Strategic Risk Management in IT: Insights into managing risk and uncertainty within the tech sector and the strategic thinking behind DeepTree's operations.· Mentorship's Impact on Business Growth: The role of mentorship and professional communities in supporting Peter's entrepreneurial journey and business growth.· Anticipating Future IT Trends: Predictions for technological advancements and preparing businesses to adapt to forthcoming changes in the IT landscape.· Entrepreneurial Advice for Aspiring Business Owners: Peter shares critical advice on adaptability, vision, and perseverance for success in the competitive IT industry.

Welcome back to The Beacon Way Podcast starring our Executive Team! Join Co-Founders Adrienne Wilkerson and Jennifer Christensen, and Partner, Ken Okonek as they unpack how successful executives harness the power of downtime to enhance their leadership and operational efficiency. Discover strategies from seasoned leaders who prioritize well-being to drive company success. Tune in as we explore the undeniable benefits of integrating rest into a demanding schedule, providing you with actionable insights to transform your approach to work and life balance. · Discussion on the scientific and psychological benefits of downtime.· Insights into how downtime contributes to enhanced decision-making and creativity.· Adrienne, a CEO, shares her journey towards incorporating downtime into her busy schedule. Specific changes she made and the positive impacts on her leadership and personal satisfaction. The challenges she faced in admitting the need for rest and how she overcame them.·Jen recounts the health issues that arose from continuous work without breaks. The serious consequences she faced and the wake-up call that led her to prioritize her health. Steps she took to integrate downtime and the improvements in her health and work performance.· Ken discusses the concept of "selfishness" in the context of self-care and why it is beneficial for the team and the organization as a whole. His views on how personal well-being impacts professional responsibilities and team dynamics. · Specific tips and strategies shared by the hosts for integrating downtime into a demanding schedule. Examples of small changes that can lead to significant benefits in both personal well-being and professional efficacy.

We're back with another episode of The Beacon Way Podcast! In this executive series episode, Co-Founders Adrienne Wilkerson and Jennifer Christensen, and Partner, Ken Okonek delve into the advanced hiring strategies essential for any forward-thinking leader. This discussion provides a roadmap to securing top talent, crucial for a thriving workplace culture. Explore the art of hiring as we dissect practical insights influenced by notable leaders like Steve Jobs and Barbara Corcoran and integrate cutting-edge tools such as the Predictive Index. Key Points:- Introduction to Hiring Excellence: Exploring the transformative approaches and importance of hiring top-tier talent for fostering a thriving workplace culture.- Leveraging Steve Jobs' Legacy: How adopting Steve Jobs' strategy of hiring A-players at Apple can elevate company performance.- Recruitment Strategies: Techniques and innovative solutions for attracting and engaging the best candidates in today's competitive job market.- Automating Candidate Engagement: The impact of implementing automated systems to enhance communication with potential hires.- Revitalizing Company Culture: Lessons from past mistakes and strategies to overcome a toxic workplace environment.- Balancing Skills and Culture: Navigating the intersection of professional abilities and cultural fit in hiring decisions.- Coaching for Peak Performance: How effective coaching can transform good employees into great ones and sustain high performance.- Using Predictive Index: How this tool helps optimize hiring decisions by aligning candidate profiles with job requirements.- Skill Matching in Recruitment: Addressing the challenges of aligning specific job roles with the right candidate skills.- Continuous Improvement in Hiring: Strategies for refining hiring processes based on feedback and practical insights.- Harnessing Soft Skills: The importance of emotional intelligence and soft skills in complementing technical abilities in the workplace.

Tune in to the second episode in our Executive Series of The Beacon Way Podcast with CEO/Co-Founder, Adrienne Wilkerson, CMO/Co-Founder, Jennifer Christensen, and CRO/Partner, Ken Okonek. Today, they're talking about the vital role of constructive conflict in building resilient teams and fostering a culture of open communication. Learn from top executives as they share their personal experiences, the challenges they've faced, and the strategies that have transformed their approach to leadership. Whether you're a seasoned leader or aspiring to manage a team, this episode offers valuable insights into turning conflict into a tool for growth and innovation. Key Points:·         Introduction to Constructive Conflict: Exploring the fundamental concepts and benefits of engaging in constructive conflict within teams.·         Overcoming the Fear of Conflict: Strategies for addressing and alleviating common fears associated with conflict in professional settings.·         The Role of Conflict in Organizational Strength: How conflict, when managed well, contributes to the resilience and growth of an organization.·         Book Insights: Five Dysfunctions of a Team: Lessons and takeaways from the book that relate to harnessing conflict for team improvement.·         Implementing Conflict Positively in Team Dynamics: Practical approaches to foster a culture where conflict leads to positive outcomes.·         Real-Life Examples of Conflict Leading to Innovation: Case studies demonstrating how conflict has driven innovation and improvement.·         Building Trust Through Healthy Conflict: Techniques for building and maintaining trust through the process of constructive disagreement.·         Conflict Resolution: Offering practical tips and techniques for resolving disputes effectively.·         The Importance of Perspective in Conflict Situations: Understanding different viewpoints to enrich the resolution process.·         How to Encourage Constructive Disagreements: Encouraging team members to engage in healthy debates without damaging relationships.·         Leadership and Conflict: Guidance for leaders on embracing conflict as a tool for personal and organizational growth.·         Q&A Session: Addressing common questions and concerns about managing conflict in the workplace.

Join us in this enlightening episode of the Beacon Way Podcast as Adrienne Wilkerson, CEO and Co-Founder of Beacon Media and Marketing, discusses the transformative journey of becoming an entrepreneurial powerhouse. Discover the core values and dynamic strategies that have shaped Beacon's success in the ever-evolving world of digital marketing. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode offers valuable insights into cultivating a thriving, innovative company.Key Points:·         Entrepreneurial Spirit at Beacon: Adrienne discusses her personal journey and the core values that define Beacon as an entrepreneurial company.·         Inspirational Insights: A revelation from Dan Sullivan's book that redefined Beacon's approach to entrepreneurship.·         Learning by Doing: Emphasizing the importance of hands-on experience over theoretical knowledge in digital marketing.·         Adaptability in Workflows: How Beacon embraces adaptable workflows and results-focused objectives to stay competitive.·         Flexibility Over Rigidity: The strategic advantage of embracing ambiguity and versatility in a rapidly changing industry.·         Prioritizing People: Beacon's commitment to putting people over profit, emphasizing employee well-being and a supportive culture.·         Valuing Contributions from All: Recognizing and valuing input from team members at all levels to foster innovation.·         Cultivating Relationships: The importance of building strong, genuine relationships both within the company and with clients.·         Commitment to Innovation: Rejecting the comfort of the status quo by continuously seeking innovation and embracing change.·         Knowledge Sharing: Advocating for a culture of openness and transparency in sharing knowledge, benefiting the entire industry.·         Encouraging an Abundance Mindset: Promoting a culture where knowledge is shared freely, fostering an environment of growth and mutual benefit.

This week, we're diving deep into the evolving world of AI in marketing with host Jennifer Christensen and special guest Michelle Williams in this engaging episode of The Beacon Way. We unpack the exciting and sometimes daunting aspects of AI, how it's being integrated into marketing strategies today, and what ethical challenges arise. This episode is packed with forward-thinking ideas, practical advice from industry insiders, and a peek into the future of digital marketing. Perfect for marketers, business owners, and anyone intrigued by the intersection of technology and marketing.Key Points:·         Introduction to AI in Marketing: Exploring the role and impact of AI technologies in current marketing strategies.·         Insights from Macon Marketing AI Conference: Key takeaways and lessons from a major AI conference attended by industry leaders.·         AI Policy Development: How different departments at Beacon are creating specific AI guidelines to streamline their operations.·         Human Creativity vs. AI Automation: Balancing technological efficiency with the need for human creativity and intuition in content creation.·         Ethical Use of AI: Discussing the ethical implications and responsibilities of using AI in marketing.·         Future Predictions for AI: Speculations and expert opinions on the future developments in AI and its effects on marketing practices.·         AI's Impact on Jobs and Business Operations: How AI is transforming job roles and business processes within the marketing industry.·         Interactive Q&A: Addressing audience questions and concerns about implementing AI in marketing strategies.·         Conclusion: Summarizing the discussion and providing thoughts on responsible AI use in marketing going forward.

Welcome to the first episode of the Beacon Way Exec Series! Join Beacon Media and Marketing co-founders Jennifer Christensen and Adrienne Wilkerson, along with partner Ken Okonek, as they dive deep into the nuances of effective communication and conflict management within business leadership. Discover actionable insights on fostering a collaborative environment, utilizing personal growth for business success, and mastering the art of communication diversity to enhance team dynamics.Key Points:·Diverse Communication Styles: Discussion on managing different communication styles among business partners and their impact on company dynamics.·Strengths and Communication Profiles: The implementation and benefits of using Gallup Strength Profiles to enhance team understanding and performance.·Emotional Intelligence: The crucial role of emotional intelligence in leadership and its influence on company culture and success.·Personal Growth for Professional Success: The intertwined relationship between personal development and professional advancement.·Healthy Conflict: Strategies for navigating disagreements constructively and the importance of trust in fostering productive conflicts.·Building Trust and Respect: How establishing trust and respect among partners is foundational to successful business operations.·Impact of Personal Experiences on Professional Growth: How personal backgrounds and experiences influence professional behaviors and decisions.·Closing Thoughts on Trust and Authenticity: Reflections on the importance of authenticity and trust in building a successful team and business. 

Dive into the depths of Google Ads with host Jennifer Christensen and Emily Miles, a seasoned paid ads and reporting specialist, in this insightful episode of the Beacon Way podcast. Learn actionable strategies to boost your ad performance, understand crucial metrics, and leverage branding for higher conversions. Whether you're a small business owner or a marketing professional, this episode will equip you with the knowledge to optimize your digital campaigns effectively.Key Points:·Important Metrics for Google Ads: Discussion on various metrics like reach, clicks, impressions, cost per click (CPC), and cost per lead (CPL), focusing on how to measure the success of ads based on campaign goals.·Significance of Quality Ad Scores: Explaining the importance of Google's quality ad scores and how they impact ad performance and algorithm interactions.·Impact of Landing Pages on Ads: How well-designed landing pages that match ad content can significantly improve ad performance and user engagement.·Branding and Its Influence on Ads: The substantial role of branding in ad recognition and conversion, including statistical insights on the effectiveness of branded content.·Ad Optimization Tips: Practical advice on optimizing ads for better performance, including the use of descriptive headlines, unique descriptions, and relevant extensions.·Favorite Aspects of Ad Management: Emily shares her personal enjoyment in identifying opportunities for improvement through data analysis.·Starting with Google Ads on a Budget: Tips for small businesses or individuals looking to start with Google Ads without a significant initial investment.·Future of Digital Advertising: Thoughts on the evolving landscape of digital advertising, including the role of generative AI and the increasing importance of brand trust.

Join our host Jennifer Christensen and special guest Brandon Dixon, our Lead Paid Ads Specialist, as they delve into the intricacies of Meta and Google Ads. This episode is packed with actionable strategies and expert insights designed to help both novice and advanced marketers enhance their ad performance and drive better results.Key Points:Key Meta Ads Metrics: Importance of metrics like cost per lead and click-through rates for tracking ROI. Detailed explanation of which metrics matter and why.Meta vs. Google Ads: Comparison of the strengths of Meta and Google Ads. Strategies for integrating both platforms to enhance overall marketing efficacy.Optimizing Click-Through Rates: Tips on how to improve click-through rates using creative adjustments and precise targeting. Examples of successful creative strategies and common pitfalls.Understanding Meta's Relevance Score: Explanation of what the Relevance Score is and its significance in ad campaigns. Impact of ad relevance on campaign performance and audience engagement.Use of Instant Forms in Meta Ads: Discussion on the effectiveness of using instant forms on Meta, tailored to specific industries. Insights on when to keep potential customers on Meta for forms versus directing them to a website.Client Involvement in Campaign Success: The importance of client collaboration and accurate lead tracking for campaign success. How clients can help optimize advertising strategies through feedback and engagement.Listener Q&A: Interactive session where Brandon answers specific listener questions about digital advertising. Practical advice on common advertising issues and effective strategies.

Join host Jennifer Christensen on the Beacon Way Podcast as we delve into the transformative power of technology in business growth. This episode features CJ, a HubSpot specialist and the COO of 4Cast, who shares her expert insights on making HubSpot a cornerstone of business success.Key Points:Introduction to Technology's Role in Business: Emphasizing how integrating technology can streamline operations and solve organizational problems.Choosing the Right Technology: Guidelines on how to evaluate and select the appropriate technologies that align with specific business needs.Avoiding Common Mistakes: Discussion on typical pitfalls in tech adoption and how to avoid them for more effective technology integration.Deep Dive into HubSpot: Insights into maximizing the use of HubSpot in various business environments, especially focusing on its impact in healthcare.Strategies for Effective Implementation: Key strategies to ensure successful adoption and implementation of new technologies across teams.The Importance of Specialization: Benefits of specializing in specific platforms like HubSpot over broader, less focused solutions.Future of AI in Business: Exploring how artificial intelligence is changing the business landscape and what businesses need to do to stay competitive.Expert Advice from CJ: Personal insights and professional strategies from CJ, a seasoned HubSpot specialist, on harnessing technology for business growth.

Join host Jennifer and Databox expert Fedor Simic as they dive deep into the power of benchmarking. Discover how businesses can leverage real-time data to set performance standards, optimize strategies, and achieve unparalleled success. Whether you're in marketing, sales, or finance, this episode has something valuable for you! Key Points: Introduction to DataBox and Benchmarking: Fedor Simic from DataBox explains the significance of benchmarking in modern business operations.Roles and Experiences at DataBox: Fedor shares his journey through various roles at DataBox, highlighting his transition from support roles to a partnership manager.Overview of Benchmarking Tool: An in-depth look at DataBox's benchmarking tool, which offers broad and narrow real-time benchmarks for different industries.Specific Application in Mental Health Industry: The episode discusses how benchmarking has revolutionized performance indicators for businesses specializing in mental health.Benefits of Benchmarking for Business Owners: Fedor discusses how benchmarking answers crucial performance questions and helps in setting realistic goals.Diverse Integrations for Comprehensive Benchmarking: The integration possibilities with DataBox, including Google Ads, Facebook Ads, HubSpot, Salesforce, QuickBooks, and Xero, are explored.Popular Trends in Benchmarking: Insights into the most utilized aspects of benchmarking, focusing on marketing, sales, and financial data.Creating Custom Benchmarks and Surveys: How businesses can use DataBox to create bespoke benchmarks and conduct surveys to gather industry-specific data.Using Data to Attract and Retain Clients: Strategies for using benchmark data to generate valuable content, establish thought leadership, and attract new clients.Real-world Impact of Benchmarks: Case studies and examples illustrating how companies have used benchmarks to make informed decisions and improve business outcomes.Accessing and Using DataBox: Guidance on how to start using DataBox, including free access options and the process of connecting data sources to gain insights.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmm

Join host Jennifer and guest expert Bob Hutchins as they delve deep into the transformative power of AI in business and marketing. In this episode of The Beacon Way podcast, they explore the intersection of technology, marketing strategies, and the future of business agility. Learn how businesses of all sizes can leverage AI for data-driven growth, enhance customer personalization, and navigate the ethical landscape of digital marketing. Whether you're a marketer, business owner, or AI enthusiast, this conversation is packed with insights and actionable strategies. Key Points:Introduction to AI in Business: Overview of how AI is transforming business processes and marketing strategies.Rapid Evolution of AI: Discussion on the accelerated pace of AI development and its impact on various industries.Historical Lessons from Tech: Comparisons drawn from the dot-com bubble to current AI advancements.Data and AI Integration: The significance of integrating AI with business data for enhanced decision-making and operational efficiency.Ethical Considerations and Data Privacy: Importance of establishing a governance framework for ethical AI usage and ensuring robust data privacy measures.Small Language Models: How businesses are using small language models to refine their marketing efforts and communication.Practical Steps for AI Adoption: Guidance on where businesses can start with AI implementation and the importance of data literacy.Future of Marketing: The potential for hyper-personalization at scale and how AI can enable businesses to tailor experiences uniquely to each customer.Cultural Shifts in Business: Encouraging a culture of AI adoption within organizations to foster innovation and strategic advancement.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmmBob Hutchins LinkedInHuman Voice Media Website

Join us in this enlightening episode of The Beacon Way as we dive deep into the world of SEO with expert Zoe Ashbridge from Forank. Discover advanced SEO strategies, understand how to measure your SEO success, and explore the evolving role of AI in search engine optimization. Zoe shares invaluable insights and real-world examples that will help you elevate your SEO game. Whether you're an SEO beginner or a seasoned professional, this episode is packed with actionable advice and cutting-edge knowledge. Key Points: Introduction to Zoe Ashbridge: Insight into Zoe's background and her role at Forank, her company. Measuring SEO Success: Discussion on different metrics to measure the effectiveness of SEO strategies, including clicks, impressions, revenue, and conversions. Advanced SEO Tactics: Exploring deeper SEO strategies used by experts to enhance visibility and engagement.Impact of AI on SEO: Zoe's perspective on the integration of AI in SEO practices, including the benefits and potential drawbacks. Real-world SEO Case Studies: Zoe shares specific examples and outcomes from her professional experience to illustrate successful and unsuccessful SEO strategies. SEO Tools and Resources: Recommendations for essential tools and resources that can aid in improving SEO efforts, such as Google Search Console and SEO Ranking. Ethical Considerations in SEO and AI: Discussion on maintaining integrity and ethical practices while using advanced technologies like AI in SEO.

Explore insights on leveraging AI for marketing with Austin Armstrong, focusing on his tool Syllaby for video content and tackling industry challenges.Show NotesAustin Armstrong, a digital marketing expert with a focus on AI and video marketing, shares insights from his experience.Discussion on Armstrong's AI tool, Syllaby, designed for video marketing, emphasizing its features like generating video scripts and scheduling content. Addressing common issues like video resistance and content consistency, and how Syllaby helps overcome these. Syllaby's primary users include service-based businesses like therapists and real estate agents, aiming to resonate with their audience's pain points.Plans for Syllaby include more personalization and features to enhance user engagement and content creation.- **AI in Marketing**: The broader impact of AI on marketing and content creation, with a focus on ethical considerations and future potential.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmmlinkedin.com/in/austinarmstrong90https://socialtypro.com/https://syllaby.io/https://www.linkedin.com/company/mentalhealthmarketingconference/https://wefunder.com/

Explore work-life balance strategies with Robert Fukui on The Beacon Way podcast, focusing on family dynamics and personal growth in entrepreneurship. Key Points This Episode:-       Introduction of Robert Fukui as a coach working with entrepreneurs, particularly in family business dynamics.-       The concept of "family business" extends beyond direct family involvement in the business operations.-       Emphasis on balancing business growth with personal life, particularly family time.-       The challenge many entrepreneurs face in becoming too engrossed in their business at the expense of personal freedom and family time.-       The importance of delegating and focusing on one's strengths.-       The role of identity and work ethic in personal and business development.-       Strategies for achieving work-life balance and ensuring family priorities are maintained.-       The impact of business decisions on personal relationships and family dynamics.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmmlinkedin.com/in/robertfukuihttps://marriedentrepreneur.co/marriedentrepreneur.co//blog thetandembook.com/ 

Jennifer Christensen explores Olya Clem's journey in mental health, her adoption of Brainspotting in therapy, and her insights on running a successful practice on The Beacon Way. Key Points From This Episode:- Introduction to Olya Clem, CEO and founder of Common Thread Counseling.- Olya's journey from Russia to the U.S. and her passion for helping people with childhood trauma.- Discussion on the importance of incorporating culture and personal experiences into therapy.- Introduction to Brainspotting as a modality for deep healing.- The unique approach of Brainspotting and its benefits for both clients and therapists.- Olya's experience in private practice and the transition to group practice.- The impact of specializing in a niche on business success.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmmOlya Clem on LinkedIn

Improve your therapy marketing with Omar Ruiz, an experienced marriage and family therapist and Psychology Today marketing expert. Boost your private practice with essential strategies and tips for your Psychology Today profile optimization and effective social media use. Show NotesOmar Ruiz's expertise as a licensed therapist specializing in couples therapy and infidelity issues.The transition from insurance-based to private pay practice: insights and impacts Self-education journey: learning marketing through YouTube UniversityBusiness creation: coaching services for therapists focused on online private practiceOptimizing a Psychology Today profile: importance of profile image, opening lines, additional photos, and introduction videoCrafting an effective Psychology Today profile: strategies including using leading statements, offering value, inspiring hope, and incorporating a call to actionThe highlight feature on Psychology Today: the significance of keyword usageOnline resource: Omar Ruiz's YouTube channel "Online Private Practice" for therapists seeking marketing support and profile reviews. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmmlinkedin.com/in/omar-a-ruiz-lmft-ab1b8738talkthinkthrive.com Online Private Practice, LLC https://www.youtube.com/@onlineprivatepractice

Join Jennifer Christensen and LinkedIn expert, Andy Pondillo, as they share success strategies & valuable tips for digital marketing. Key Points from This Episode:Andy Pondillo, a LinkedIn enthusiast and expert, concentrates on LinkedIn for his consulting work. Became proficient with LinkedIn during the COVID-19 pandemic, finding success with his approach.Advocates for the significance of immediacy in social media content, to grab audience's attention.Stresses the importance of testing and experimentation in successful marketing.Advises the allotment of 5-10% of budget to test new strategies and platforms.Appreciates the unique perspectives and collaboration between different generations and roles in the marketing industry.Available on LinkedIn for queries and assistance. Runs a podcast named "The Making of a Marketer" discussing various marketing topics.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmmlinkedin.com/in/andy-pondillo

Jennifer Christensen explores Sales Recruitment alongside Dan Fantasia. Together, they delve into the evolving landscape of recruitment while emphasizing the significance of human capital.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmmFACEBOOK (PERSONAL): https://www.facebook.com/dan.fantasia FACEBOOK (BUSINESS): https://www.facebook.com/TreelineInc        LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/company/treelineinc/  INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/treelineinc/ TWITTER: https://twitter.com/TreelineInc YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@TreelineInc

Jennifer Christensen and Valerie Van Galder discuss the journey of the Depressed Cake shop, promoting mental health awareness through community bake sales and sharing experiences. Key Points From This Episode:Introduction to Valerie Van Galder, founder of Depressed Cake Shop, a unique initiative using pop-up bake sales to raise both funds and awareness for mental health.A brief overview of Valerie's professional background, including her experience in corporate marketing and the film industry. Personal connection to mental health issues: How Valerie's father's struggle inspired her advocacy and creation of a platform for sharing stories. Details about the Depressed Cake Shop: How it is a community-driven project, allowing people to host their own bake sales, with proceeds benefiting local mental health charities. Valerie's belief in the power of community and connection as tools to fight loneliness and foster mental well-being.Encouragement for individuals to tap into their passions as therapeutic outlets, with examples such as art and baking.The potential of small and grassroots movements to make major impacts on mental health issues.A call to action from Valerie: pushing for increased advocacy, research, and improved treatments for mental illnesses, such as bipolar disorder. Emphasizing the intersection of mental health and basic needs, including housing and safety.Final words of encouragement from Valerie, urging listeners to take proactive steps such as reaching out to others, participating in community events, and supporting mental health initiatives. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmmlinkedin.com/in/valerie-van-galder-a5737943depressedcakeshop.com depressedcake

The Beacon Way talks with Shelby Robbins, founder of Antelope Recovery, about her virtual mental health program for teens and the journey of bootstrapping growth. Show Notes:Antelope Recovery, a virtual intensive outpatient program for teens with substance use and mental health struggles, is founded by Shelby Robbins.Located in Boulder, Colorado, Antelope Recovery is bridging the gap between once-a-week therapy and residential treatment for teens.The program offers support for teens following recent mental health crises without long-term care options and also those in need of preventative care.The adoption of the virtual care model in the mental health sector has increased, especially due to the COVID-19 pandemic.Antelope Recovery strives to maintain high-quality care while reaching as many teens as possible.The program uses innovative virtual products to engage teens, including therapy groups in a Minecraft space and conducting group sessions during walks.The issue of teens not completing treatment is a major challenge in mental health care; Antelope Recovery is specifically addressing this problem.The organization is founded on transparency and is focused on building a robust startup team.Antelope Recovery has successfully raised a small friends-and-family round of investment, with considerations of a series A round in the future. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmmhttps://www.anteloperecovery.com/linkedin.com/in/shelbyrobbins1

Unlock your business potential with Karie Kaufmann, Action Business Coach. Learn to overcome challenges and scale up with insights from her journey.Key Points From This Episode:Karie Kaufmann, a Scaling Up certified business coach with a rich experience of 18 years.Known for her expertise in working with scale-up businesses and helping them unlock their potential.Winner of the 'Coach of the Year' award, reflecting her dedication to the field.Her mantra: Business should enrich your life, not drain it.Identifies and addresses the common issue of businesses getting stuck on a growth plateau.Strong advocate for mindset shifts among business owners for better outcomes.Recognizes the significant impact small businesses have on community and economy.Karie's mission: Empowering leaders and businesses to reach their full potential.She highly values winning, personal growth, and the journey of building a business. Karie, the "vitamin coach", is dedicated to aiding her clients in achieving their vision and elevating their business.Ideal clientele: Confident, humble, coachable individuals who prioritize their executive education. Karie underscores the significance of community and connections in business success.Promotes challenge acceptance among business owners and encourages them to view these as lessons to grow.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmmhttps://kariekaufmann.com/https://scalingup.com/linkedin.com/in/kariekaufmann@CoachKarie

Discover how Wired for Addiction explores biopsychosocial aspects of addiction, the role of mental health in criminal cases, and the power of preventative testing in this powerful episode. Key Points From This Episode:Wired for Addiction is an organization focusing on the biological aspects of addiction, providing home test kits and individualized support to help people understand and manage their conditions.They focus on mitigating physiological pain points of addiction and work closely with biomarkers discovered by renowned organizations such as NIH, NIDA, and NIAAA.Their approach goes beyond traditional Western medicine, empowering individuals by identifying genetic defects and providing support specific to personal biochemical pathways.Recommendations made by Wired for Addiction may include various therapies, behavioral changes, and medication, paving the way for a holistic treatment approach.The organization also provides objective documentation of conditions related to alcohol, sex, drugs, gambling, and mental health in criminal cases, contributing to fair and informed sentencing.A significant part of their work involves advocating for the humane treatment of individuals with behavioral health issues, emphasizing the role of mental health in criminal history.They believe that supporting mental health during and after sentence reduces recidivism rates, benefiting not only the individual but also the economy, families, and communities.Wired for Addiction stands for the integration of proactive biomarker testing into routine physical checkups for early diagnosis of potential behavioral health issues. Their objective is to highlight the importance of early diagnosis and management of conditions like ADHD, underscoring the need for a shift in the way we understand and explain feelings for more diverse diagnoses and treatment plans.They emphasize treating the root cause of problems rather than just the symptoms, cautioning against the sole reliance on medication.A major part of their advocacy is breaking the stigma around addiction, encouraging the understanding of the disease from a scientific perspective and pushing for biological support in addiction treatment. Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmmhttps://www.wiredforaddiction.com/linkedin.com/in/jacqueline-hall-91067112aWiredforaddiction.com https://www.amenclinics.com/

Supporting mental health in Minnesota schools, Prairie Care Fund provides crucial funding for resources, training, and peer-to-peer initiatives. Key Points From This Episode:Introduction to Prairie Care Fund, a mental health nonprofit boosting mental health initiatives in Minnesota schools. Overview of how the funds can be used including curriculum, books, fidgets, HeartMath monitors.Highlighting the impact of Prairie Care Fund: $1.4M awarded, over 80,000 students and staff impacted.Tackling the challenge: 69 grant applications in 2023, $1.5M requested, only $220,000 awarded.Unfolding the success stories: mental health first aid training, peer-to-peer training, and early onset mental illness identification skills.Striving to reduce mental health stigma and provide coping mechanisms.The imperative need for mental health resources and support in schools. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmmlinkedin.com/in/michael-moody-800b5b187https://www.linkedin.com/company/prairiecare-fund/https://www.prairiecarefund.org/

This informative 29th episode of The Beacon Way podcast explores the transformative insights on homelessness and mental health through Interfaith Sanctuary. Interfaith Sanctuary is a low-barrier homeless shelter in Boise, Idaho, providing a safe haven for everyone. Discover how they challenge misconceptions about homelessness and the intersection with mental health. Key Points From This Episode: Interfaith Sanctuary is a year-round homeless shelter that began as a mobile winter shelter. The shelter welcomes all individuals, regardless of background, sobriety status, or sexual orientation. A new building has been purchased to expand the facility from its current 10,000 square feet. The shelter provides for approximately 170 guests each night with an additional 97 accommodated in a hotel during the pandemic. On-site programs include mental health services, a homeless art collective, a newspaper, and a food service training program. The future shelter plans to be a national model, focusing on de-escalation, continuous safety, and a secured space for progress. Homelessness is primarily due to system failures and limited housing availability. Mental health and addiction issues are generally a consequence of homelessness, not the root cause. Common triggers for homelessness include loss of income, health problems, inaccessible benefits, and loss of required documentation. Emphasis is placed on the importance of empathetic listening and assistance in mental health care. Interfaith Sanctuary offers several programs to help individuals reintegrate into the community. Former guests of the shelter are encouraged to take part in mentorship programs and support groups. Private funds sustain general operations while diverse funding streams support specific programs. Despite facing opposition and legal setbacks, a capital campaign is underway to finance the new shelter. The local community significantly contributes to the funding of Interfaith Sanctuary's operations.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: linkedin.com/in/jodi-peterson-stigers-a845548 interfaithsanctuary.org  Jennifer Christensen on LinkedIn Jennifer Christensen on Twitter Beacon Media + Marketing Beacon Media + Marketing @beaconmm 

Join The Beacon Way podcast as host Ken Okonek sits down with Peter Caputa, CEO of Databox, for a deep dive into the world of data. Learn about Databox's integrations, capabilities, and how it uses machine learning to forecast results and identify trends. Discover how generative AI can boost your company's knowledge and insights. Tune in to understand how Databox can help improve your business's performance and visit benchmarks.databox.com to see where you stand compared to other companies.Show Notes:In this enlightening 28th episode of The Beacon Way podcast, host Ken Okonek welcomes Peter Caputa, the CEO of Databox. Peter underscores the significance of data in making informed business decisions. He opens about Databox's functionality, detailing its integration with over 70 tools for comprehensive business data monitoring. The platform enables companies to construct dashboards, track conversions, bridge with CRMs, and more. Peter highlights the potential of machine learning algorithms in predicting outcomes using historical data and pinpointing shifts in metrics like sales call volume or PPC costs. Lastly, he stresses Databox's primary objective – aiding businesses in interpreting and enhancing their performance dataKey Points from This Episode:The Beacon Way podcast hosts Peter Caputa, CEO of DataBox.DataBox is a software system that helps businesses gather crucial data.Data from DataBox aids in measuring business performance and operations.DataBox aims to support small businesses by offering data free of charge.Users participate in surveys or share tool access to acquire the data.This system promotes smarter decision-making in business through data utilization. Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: linkedin.com/in/pc4mediapc4media on Twitterwww.databox.comlinkedin.com/in/ken-okonekJennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmm

In episode 27 of The Beacon Way podcast, host Jennifer Christensen welcomes Chris Maliszewski, one of the founders behind the Walking Tall movement. Chris shares his personal journey as a mass shooting survivor and how it led to the creation of Walking Tall—a mental health movement aimed at turning tragedy into triumph. The episode explores the importance of vulnerability, storytelling, and the power of human connection in overcoming trauma and promoting mental well-being. Chris and Jennifer discuss the challenges faced in today's society, the worsening mental health statistics, and the need for a different approach. This episode is a source of inspiration and hope for anyone navigating trauma or mental health struggles. It reminds listeners that they are not alone and that healing and growth are possible.Key-points in the episode: Guest: Chris Maliszewski, one of the founders of the Walking Tall movementThe Walking Tall movement aims to create a mental health movement based on severely traumatizing experiences.Chris is a mass shooting survivor, having experienced a mass shooting on July 4th, 2022 Todd Blyleven, another mass shooting survivor, reached out to Chris and they collaborated to start the Walking Tall movement.The movement believes that vulnerability is strength and aims to help others through their experiences.The Walking Tall podcast is the first part of their movement, where they share stories of people walking through trauma and turning tragedy into triumph.The podcast covers various mental health issues, not limited to mass shootings.The movement encourages people to use the hashtag #WalkTall on social media to identify as part of the movement and show support.They are recruiting ambassadors who are willing to share their stories and be resources for others.The movement aspires to expand its efforts through charitable work and technology initiatives to improve access to therapy.Chris and Todd emphasize the importance of vulnerability, caring, kindness, and listening to help reduce mental health crises and support those in need.Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:Jennifer Christensen on LinkedInJennifer Christensen on TwitterBeacon Media + MarketingBeacon Media + Marketing @beaconmmlinkedin.com/in/chris-maliszewski-cprp-20190061https://www.linkedin.com/company/walking-tall-movement/linkedin.com/in/todd-blylevenlinkedin.com/in/vanetta-larosa-91157b44

Episode Description: In The Beacon Way Episode 26, host Jennifer Christensen interviews Lexi Trainor of Yaaruin Consulting about integrating personal values into business, authentic self-awareness, and celebrating the uniqueness of culture in our businesses. Key Points From This Episode:• Lexi Trainor is the CEO of Yaaruin Consulting, a business whose name derives from the traditional Yup'ik women's story knife used to pass down traditional knowledge.• Lexi has worked diligently to hone in on her self-awareness and offer value to others through her business.• As an Alaska Native woman, she experienced difficulties growing up due to negative stereotypes and a lack of exposure to higher education opportunities.• She draws inspiration from Gloria O'Neil, the CEO of Cook Inlet Tribal Council, as well as her own culture's emphasis on connection and community.• Jennifer Christensen values differences between people and celebrates how unique perspectives can enhance one another.• Jennifer Christensen posed the question of how to celebrate and embrace differences and also uplift women as a community.• Lexi Trainer shared her experiences of feeling like women's appreciation is countercultural, but hopeful that it is changing.• She described that when putting together her business values, empathy and understanding everyone's life story was a priority.• Lexi believes that recognizing the struggles of others, even if they are not shared publicly, is the best way to support one another in the community.• Specifically, she suggests ways such as providing specific help or opportunities for one-on-one or group communication and listening/learning each other's stories. Ada's story about “ability without visibility not being worth anything” was used as an example.• Lexi Trainer is a storyteller and strategic communications expert who specializes in Alaskan Native cultural consulting.• Her services include helping people strategize their branding, social media management and photography.• She encourages others to be vulnerable and form strong connections with one another through sharing experiences.• Lexi's passion lies in providing outreach and education campaigns for people in rural Alaska.• Jennifer Christensen recommends Lexi's services, noting her openness and ability to make a difference.  Links Mentioned in Today's Episode: Lexi Qass'uq Trainer yaaruinconsulting.com lexi@yaaruinconsulting.com Jennifer Christensen on LinkedIn Jennifer Christensen on Twitter Beacon Media + Marketing Beacon Media + Marketing @beaconmm CIRI Foundation

Join hosts Adrienne Wilkerson and Jennifer Christensen in episode 25 of The Beacon Way podcast, as they chat with Paul Roetzer, founder of Marketing AI Institute, about the state of AI for marketers. Discover how AI is revolutionizing the marketing landscape and what businesses can do to stay ahead of the game. From automating content creation to optimizing user experiences, explore the benefits and challenges of implementing AI in your marketing strategy. Tune in now to stay ahead of the rapidly-evolving digital landscape.Key points from the Episode:Paul Roetzer, CEO of Marketing AI Institute, discusses the history and evolution of AI in marketing.AI can help marketers understand the needs and preferences of their customers better by analyzing data and predicting their behavior.Marketers need to ensure that they are using AI ethically, transparently, and responsibly, to avoid biases and maintain customer trust.Automation is likely to play a more significant role in marketing as AI technologies continue to develop and improve.The future of AI in marketing may involve the increased use of chatbots and other conversational interfaces to provide more personalized marketing experiences.There is a trend of advising companies to use AI for the first draft of content.It is possible for AI to generate content for clients under a work-for-hire agreement, but there may be copyright issues to consider.AI can assist in generating ideas or providing insights for content creation.AI-generated content can be used as a starting point, but editing and revisions are still necessary to ensure quality and accuracy.Human input and creativity are still essential in the content creation process to maintain authenticity and engagement.Podcasts, videos, events, and opinion pieces with clear points of view are all great forms of marketing content.Authentic branded content is becoming increasingly important, as it helps consumers connect with the people behind the content.The utility is important in marketing content; it should answer a question or provide some value to the reader or viewer.Efficiency tools can help reduce costs and improve the quality of content over time, making it difficult for competitors to keep up.Efficiency improvements of 10-30% can be achieved through the use of technology across various areas such as writing, advertising, video production, and graphic design.Competitors who are slow to adopt technology risk falling behind quickly in the next 12 months.The game is evolving rapidly, and the use of technology is no longer just an incremental improvement but a game-changing differentiator between firms.Catching up with firms who have already started to infuse technology into their services will become increasingly difficult over time.Continuous evolution in technology makes keeping up with emerging trends and innovations is essential for businesses to remain competitive.Marketing AI InstituteLinkedIn: Paul RoetzerTwitter: paulroetzer