Podcasts about Brand Building

Eleven successful founders reveal their exact playbooks for 2026. Discover AI commerce strategies, slow content that converts, gamified loyalty tips, and community-first growth tactics. Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

In this episode, host Josh interviews Simon Hammer, VP of Product at Vimbly Group, about acquiring and managing e-commerce brands. Simone shares a case study from the cocktail shaker market, illustrating how focusing solely on quantitative metrics led to missed opportunities. He emphasizes the importance of qualitative customer feedback, brand storytelling, and product-market fit to build lasting brands and avoid competing only on price. The discussion highlights key lessons for e-commerce leaders: assess market potential, listen to customers, and continuously test and iterate to stay competitive.Chapters:Introduction to Simone Hammer and Background (00:00:00)Josh introduces Simone Hammer, his background, and experience in e-commerce and investment banking.Approach to Brand Acquisition and Quantitative Analysis (00:00:55)Discussion on traditional quantitative methods for acquiring brands and the limitations of focusing solely on numbers.Case Study: Cocktail Shaker Brand and Market Dynamics (00:01:38)Simone shares a case study about their cocktail shaker brand, market share, and the impact of COVID-19.Competitor Analysis and Information Memorandum (00:03:08)Simone describes obtaining a competitor's information memorandum and insights into their strategies and market position.Market Changes and Increased Competition (00:04:07)Discussion on rising freight costs, increased competition, and the challenges faced in the cocktail shaker market.Brand Building vs. KPI Focus (00:05:05)Comparison between their KPI-driven approach and the competitor's focus on brand building and storytelling.Consequences of Ignoring Qualitative Feedback (00:06:59)Simone explains the negative outcomes of neglecting qualitative customer feedback and the resulting price competition.Importance of Qualitative Customer Insights (00:07:53)Emphasis on the value of qualitative data, customer feedback, and brand building for long-term business success.Lessons Learned and Industry Trends (00:09:01)Reflection on industry trends, the necessity of qualitative insights, and the risk of competing solely on price.Host Reflection and Question on Customer Feedback (00:10:04)Josh reflects on his own business practices and asks Simone what customer feedback they missed.Specific Customer Preferences Missed (00:10:53)Simone details specific customer preferences, such as the shine of the shaker and the appeal of the stand.In-Person vs. Online Customer Insights (00:11:55)Insights gained from in-person customer interactions versus online feedback and the importance of customer development.Three Key Takeaways for E-commerce Success (00:13:43)Josh summarizes three actionable takeaways: market opportunity, listening to customers, and continuous testing.Closing Remarks and Future Follow-Up (00:16:48)Josh thanks Simone and mentions the possibility of future episodes to check on progress.Links and Mentions:Tools and Websites  Helium 10Key Takeaways  Identifying Market Opportunities: 00:13:43Listening to Customers: 00:14:47Testing and Iterating: 00:15:49Transcript:Josh 00:00:00  Today, I'm excited to introduce you to Simon Hammer. Simon is the VP of Product at Vimbly Group, a New York City based firm that scales and invests in tech enabled businesses where he has worked for over ten years. He currently runs Vimbly Group's e-commerce business unit, as well as having his hands involved in a number of Vimbly Group's eight other business units. Prior to the Vimbly Group, Simon was a healthcare investment banker at a boutique investment bank in New York City, where he focused on raising capital and mid-market mergers and acquisitions involving biotech, healthcare, technology and healthcare service companies. He has a bachelor's degree from Cornell University, and I met Simon at the Billion Dollar Seller Summit earlier this year. And Simon, I'm excited to welcome you to the podcast. Welcome.Simon 00:00:50  Thanks, Josh. Really appreciate that. Nice intro. Thanks for having me.Josh 00:00:55  As you look to acquire other brands, and I love that you kind of were an acquire or aggregator before the aggregator theme became pop became popular. So you're not on the the bandwagon there.Josh 00:01:08  You can be like, no, we were doing this long, a long time ago. You know, I think that that's really interesting, Simon. I think you've taken this approach that's actually a little bit different than I think the typical answer is, right, because I've listened to a bunch of other people that talk about acquiring businesses. And I'm looking at these specific numbers and, you know, I'm trying to draw conclusions and, you know, kind of look at 2020 and what happened during Covid and say, okay, this was an artificial bump and it's all very quantitative, right?Simon 00:01:38  All the quantitative stuff that you're talking about like looking historical, it's a given. Right. We always do that. We've always done it. And for the longest time, that's all we did. And, you know, one of our brands right now is going through a major shift in that it, for such a long time survived on three products. Basically, there's a whole, you know, there's more skews, but there's basically more Asians.Simon 00:02:02  But there's there's effectively three basins. One of those. basically a shell of itself now. And part of the reason why is because, you know, actually, if you'll divulge me for a second. So, pre-COVID and even through the first, you know, a couple years of Covid and depending on where you want to, you know, start and stop it, I guess. or, you know, where the beginning till now is, I guess. But first couple of years of it, it was doing incredibly well, right? It was something like anywhere between 25 and 35%, or it accounted for 25 to 35% of our gross margin. That gross margin, including everything from landed costs, three PL costs, FBA costs, advertising, marketing returns, all that stuff. Just not just not like overhead and, and software, things like that nature. But but gross profit. Right. And so it was a large part of our business. this one product and you know, during the beginning of Covid, I got my hands on a competitor, one of our biggest direct competitors.Simon 00:03:08  Their information memorandum, which is basically like their, this deck. it's like 50 pages of their business because they're trying to sell their business. Okay. And through like, you know, like, you know, my partner Sam, he has just a ton of connections in the entrepreneur space, a ton of connections with these brokers. And so we get a lot of deals right across a lot of different industries. and so we just happen to get our direct competitors information memorandum. Right. So this gave us everything about their business, right? We knew the numbers. We knew. we knew, who their suppliers were, right? What their strategy was, what their projections were like. You know, you name it, we knew it. And, I mean, we were like, we could look on helium ten and know that we were dominating. But then we saw the real numbers. We were, you know, we were dominant player in the market. and then all of a sudden, right, like during Covid, you start seeing freight costs go up.Simon 00:04:07  You start seeing, a lot of sellers into the space. The cocktail shaker space is kind of the space that we're playing in for one of our brands. and this is where the the set, you know, was established. and, you know, was this, you know, what's called roughly like 30% of the business. it had basically, started having rank weed, right? The ran...

Amazon's rules changed—and that's good news if you know how to play the new game. We sat down with Neil Twak, co-founder of Voltage Holdings and Cayman Data, to unpack why algorithm shifts have compressed launch windows to roughly 30 days, how structured data now acts like a prompt into Amazon's Cosmo engine, and why intent beats keywords for ranking and profitable growth. Neil makes a clear case for relaunching weak ASINs over reviving old reviews, and he explains how to train the algorithm with PPC while optimizing for tacos, not ACOS.We dig into pricing strategy and brand defensibility in a world of rising fees and policy risk. The winning move is to build in tier two and tier three price bands—$50 to $500—protect at least $12 per-unit profit, target 40 percent ROI, and turn inventory four times a year. That math lets you buy customers aggressively while maintaining healthy margins. Neil also maps a practical channel sequence: capture demand first on Amazon, Walmart, and TikTok Shop, then graduate to Shopify demand creation when your numbers justify the lift. You'll hear why TikTok's GMV Max ads preview Amazon's future, and how display and DSP can send qualified traffic to your DTC store without breaking terms.Data is the moat. Neil pulls back the curtain on Cayman Data's intelligence engine that identifies the small set of customer needs driving most of Amazon's revenue and greenlights product plays that slot into real demand. The big mindset shift: adopt portfolio thinking, validate fast with structured data and lean bundles, then double down only on the SKUs the market proves. If you're stuck in mid six to low seven figures, the unlock is moving from micro-ops to CEO mode—deploy capital faster, tighten cash cycles, and manage by tacos, ROI, and inventory turns.Ready to future-proof your brand and grow profitably on Amazon in 2026? Follow the show, share this episode with a seller who needs it, and leave a quick review with your top insight. Your feedback helps us bring more sharp operators to the mic.Ready to scale your Amazon business? Click here to book a strategy call. https://calendly.com/firingtheman/amazon Support the show

Nihilo is a rare creative agency in beverage that treats branding as a business discipline, not a design exercise.In this sponsored episode of Business of Drinks, co-founders Margaret Kerr-Jarrett and Emunah Winer join us to unpack their newly released 2026 New Rules Report and what it reveals about how the most effective drinks brands are actually being built right now.The New Rules Report is the centerpiece of this conversation. Based on deep discussions with founders, operators, and investors across beverage alcohol and non-alc, it offers a practical framework for understanding how brand, distribution, fundraising, and operating choices intersect. This isn't a list of trends or a lookbook. It's an operating lens for founders navigating saturation, slower capital, and changing consumer behavior.In the episode, Margaret and Emunah explain why “looking good” is now table stakes, not a growth strategy — and why clarity of perspective matters more than polish. They share why many brands are intentionally simplifying their stories instead of over-educating consumers, how packaging and distribution choices function as brand strategy, and why real-world, IRL activation is once again becoming a primary growth lever.They also break down several of the core “rules” from the 2026 report, including why one strong idea beats a complicated narrative, how contrarian positioning can unlock whitespace when categories crowd, and why profitability, production decisions, and funding paths quietly shape brand meaning just as much as marketing does.If you're a drinks founder, operator, or investor trying to understand how brands are winning in a noisy, capital-constrained environment — and how to apply those lessons to your own business — this episode offers a grounded, strategic playbook.To access the 2026 New Rules Report, visit www.newrulesbev.com.For the latest updates, follow us:Business of Drinks:YouTubeLinkedInInstagram @bizofdrinksErica Duecy, co-host: Erica Duecy is founder and co-host of Business of Drinks and one of the drinks industry's most accomplished digital and content strategists. She runs the consultancy and advisory arm of Business of Drinks and has built publishing and marketing programs for Drizly, VinePair, SevenFifty, and other hospitality and drinks tech companies.LinkedInInstagram @ericaduecyScott Rosenbaum, co-host: Scott Rosenbaum is co-host of Business of Drinks and a veteran strategist and analyst with deep experience building drinks portfolios. Most recently, he was the Portfolio Development Director at Distill Ventures. Prior to that, he was the Vice President of T. Edward Wines & Spirits, a New York-based importer and distributor.LinkedInCaroline Lamb, contributor: Caroline is a producer and on-air contributor at Business of Drinks and a key account sales and marketing specialist at AHD Vintners, a Michigan-based importer and distributor.LinkedInInstagram @borkalineIf you enjoyed today's conversation, follow Business of Drinks wherever you're listening, and don't forget to rate and review us. Your support helps us reach new listeners passionate about the drinks industry. Thank you!

In this episode of Disruption/Interruption, marketing veteran Ed Locher pulls back the curtain on B2B marketing's biggest lie: that the MQL machine actually drives growth. As CMO of PureFacts Financial Solutions and author of "Digital Transformation: People, Process and Technology," Ed reveals why 15 years of marketing automation created a sugar rush that's now crashing, and how AI can help fix it without repeating the same mistakes. This is a no-holds-barred conversation about emotional connection, the 95% of buyers marketers ignore, and why marketing tenure averages just 18 months. Four Key Takeaways: The MQL Mirage Is Built on a Lie 8:56Marketing automation promised accountability through MQLs, but overdelivering on MQL targets quarter after quarter never translated to actual revenue growth. The entire system targets only the 5% of the market ready to buy right now—ignoring the 95% who need demand creation, not demand capture. B2B Buying Committees Have Tripled in Size 16:30The buying committee for enterprise B2B purchases has exploded from 5 people to 16. You can't build credibility and trust with 16 stakeholders through email sequences—you need emotional connection and personalized storytelling that speaks to each person's specific drivers (CFO cares about ROI, compliance cares about regulations, operations cares about not making headlines). AI Raises the Floor, Not the Ceiling 29:59AI protects terrible marketers from themselves by raising the quality floor, but it hasn't raised the bar for great marketing. The real opportunity lies 3-4 standard deviations above the mean—where human empathy, emotional triggers, and genuine understanding of customer pain create outsized impact that AI can't replicate. Marketing Attribution Is a Myth 44:13There will never be a "cast iron steel rod of attribution" connecting marketing activities directly to purchases. Marketers who work for leadership that doesn't understand this are doomed to 18-month tenures, chasing MQL targets that deliver short-term sugar rushes followed by revenue crashes. The rare CEO or investor who recognizes this broken motion is the problem—not the marketer—creates space for real growth. Quote of the Show (44:13):"There will never be a cast iron steel rod of attribution that says marketing did X, which led to this person buying something. It just doesn't work that way.” — Ed Locher Join our Anti-PR newsletter where we’re keeping a watchful and clever eye on PR trends, PR fails, and interesting news in tech so you don't have to. You're welcome. Want PR that actually matters? Get 30 minutes of expert advice in a fast-paced, zero-nonsense session from Karla Jo Helms, a veteran Crisis PR and Anti-PR Strategist who knows how to tell your story in the best possible light and get the exposure you need to disrupt your industry. Click here to book your call: https://info.jotopr.com/free-anti-pr-eval Ways to connect with Ed Locher: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edlocher/ Company Website: https://purefacts.com How to get more Disruption/Interruption: Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/eccda84d-4d5b-4c52-ba54-7fd8af3cbe87/disruption-interruption Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/disruption-interruption/id1581985755 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6yGSwcSp8J354awJkCmJlDSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In this episode of the Kreatures of Habit Podcast, Michael Chernow sits down with Eric Hinman—multi-sport athlete, investor, and entrepreneur—to explore what it truly means to build a life around fitness, wellness, and high-performance living.Eric shares how discovering enjoyable and accessible movement transformed his approach to health and fitness, why intentional lifestyle design matters more than motivation, and how curiosity-driven relationships have helped him build a successful personal brand and content creation business. The conversation covers daily routines, training philosophies, endurance sports, wearable technology, and the mindset required to balance entrepreneurship and wellness.Listeners will gain practical insights on mental resilience, habit-building, and creating sustainable systems for long-term success in both business and personal health.Timestamps00:00 Finding Your Fitness Passion03:09 Athletic Journey & Training Philosophy06:18 Daily Routine & Lifestyle Design10:23 Brand Building & Partnerships14:51 Social Media Strategies & Trends22:23 Personal Insights & Reflections32:28 Endurance Training Insights35:47 Balancing Passion & Lifestyle39:18 Shifting Training Philosophies45:45 Community & Relationships50:20 Success, Fulfillment & Reflection56:50 Final Thoughts & Farewell#EricHinman #KreaturesOfHabit #FitnessEntrepreneur

Scout Brisson reveals how De Soi converts skeptics into subscribers through sampling, why it's their largest marketing expense, and her ROI framework. Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

FlyLow was founded by Dan Abrams and Greg Steen twenty years ago to create backcountry ski pants that could hold up to the demands of the sport and terrain. They continued to refine and expand the product line, as their own proficiencies were expanding and refining. Dan joins us this week to share stories and lessons from the journey so far. Show Notes: FlyLow Gear: https://flylowgear.com/ Dan Abrams: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-abrams-4287775/ Megan Michaelson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganmichelson/ Greg Steen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greg-steen-7419041b/ Alibaba: https://www.alibaba.com/ Cactus Outdoor: https://cactusoutdoor.co.nz/ CAGR (term): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Compound_annual_growth_rate Hot Tub Short (FlyLow): https://flylowgear.com/products/hot-tub-short Anderson Shirt (FlyLow): https://flylowgear.com/products/anderson-shirt Irwin Fleece (FlyLow): https://flylowgear.com/products/irwin-fleece-shirt BPC - Brand, Product, Content: Moment Skis: https://www.momentskis.com/ Momentous Creatine: https://crrnt.app/MOME/P1ZgGplx Todd Snyder: https://www.toddsnyder.com/ Join us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/second-nature-media Meet us on Slack: https://www.launchpass.com/second-nature Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/secondnature.media Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.secondnature.media Subscribe to the YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@secondnaturemedia

Your small business deserves more than random posts and wishful thinking.Social media pros use strategy, consistency, and creativity to make sure your brand shows up and stays top of mind.Here's how they do it.Want to watch or read? https://elevatedmarketing.solutions/how-would-a-social-media-marketing-company-boost-brand-awareness-for-small-businesses/Tired of vague marketing advice? So are we. This podcast brings you real, in-the-trenches conversations about what actually works no scripts, no fluff, just honest strategy and real-time insights.

Canyon Coffee grew into a seven-figure brand by selling outside traditional coffee channels. This is how a design-first retail strategy shaped a more sustainable business. Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

In this episode of the Learnings and Missteps podcast, host Jesse Hernandez sits down with Liberty Kogan, a construction social media expert with an impressive background in musical theater and business. Liberty shares her journey from performing in Legally Blonde to launching a successful babysitting agency in Atlanta and eventually transitioning into social media marketing for construction companies. Throughout the conversation, they discuss themes of vulnerability, the importance of human connection, and finding fulfillment in one's career and life. Liberty emphasizes the significance of doing what makes you happy, the challenges she faced, and how she rediscovered her passion for theater under different conditions. The episode is filled with insightful and heartfelt advice, making it a must-listen for anyone seeking to navigate their own career and personal growth.00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction01:29 Getting to Know Liberty Kogan01:57 The Power of Vulnerability on Social Media09:00 Liberty's Journey in Theater17:57 Transitioning from Theater to Business19:21 Starting a Babysitting Agency31:40 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs39:46 Auditioning for Kiss of the Spider Woman41:52 The Importance of Human Connection43:09 Returning to Atlanta and Facing an Existential Crisis44:28 Realistic View of Pursuing Arts50:27 Transition to Social Media for Concrete Companies54:01 The Power of Authentic Social Media58:37 Encouraging Vulnerability and Storytelling01:11:37 The Promise You Are Intended to BeSet the stage for an amazing new year with the Self First Framework.https://calendly.com/jesse04/self-first-webinar Download a PDF copy of Becoming the Promise You are Intended to Behttps://www.depthbuilder.com/books

Revenge Of became the go-to nerd bodega by hosting free events and waiving pinball fees. Learn the strategy that drives organic sales without discounts. Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

In episode 497 of Total Retail Talks, Editor-in-Chief Joe Keenan interviews Rene Federico, head of marketing for the U.S. at Primark, a global  fashion retailer founded and based in Dublin, Ireland. Listen in as Federico discusses Primark's growth in the U.S., focusing on marketing strategies to support this expansion (2:25). She details her role at…

Merry Christmas & Happy 2026. This Episode is hosted by Chris Maffeo and brought to you by MAFFEO DRINKS. Steve Perez reveals how he bootstrapped Global Brands (Owner of VK Vodka Kick and Franklin & Sons) from £200k to £65 million in four years without giving away equity. Starting with zero salary while working nights as a waiter, he funded growth by convincing suppliers to extend £100k monthly credit through radical transparency. His philosophy: "Your business is your soul, your heart. Don't give it away too easily."From his 400-acre farm supplying beef to his hotels, to using venues as R&D labs for drinks innovation, Steve's vertical integration proves you don't need London to build global brands. With 400 employees including three-generation families, he explains what rally driving taught him the about business:Timestamps:00:00 Welcome and Introduction00:47 Steve Perez: From Rally Driver to Businessman02:26 The Beginnings of a Business Empire05:40 Overcoming Early Business Challenges08:29 The Rise of VK Vodka Kick16:17 Bootstrapping and Supplier Relationships22:33 The Perks of the Drinks Business22:59 Building a Lasting Business Legacy24:27 Family Business Dynamics28:32 The Importance of Delegation32:29 Navigating Risks and Trends37:31 Vertical Integration and Local Impact41:20 The Benefits of Smaller Cities43:20 Conclusion and Contact Information This episode is brought to you by MAFFEO DRINKS, an Advisory helping drinks leaders execute bottom-up growth while managing stakeholder expectations. You can get in touch at bottomup@maffeodrinks.com A Deep-Dive Analysis of This Episode is Available at maffeodrinks.com 

Watch This NEXT: https://youtu.be/FA8kGL3JXx8 Apply to Work with Voics: https://www.voics.co/schedule-youtube Join Aura: https://www.aura-app.ai/ Guest: Dan MartellYoutube:  https://www.youtube.com/@DavieFogarty  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daviefogarty00:00 – Preview & Intro01:43 – Growth and Virality05:14 – Focus vs Scattered Thinking in Business06:35 – Costly Failures and Learning the Hard Way10:22 – Stop Comparing Yourself to Others11:06 – AI, Dropshipping, and Faster Product Validation16:26 – Finding Winning Trends and Market Timing21:38 – Branding, Angles, and Differentiation30:42 – The $1M–$5M Trap in E-Commerce33:34 – Personal Growth, Discipline, and Mental Frameworks52:30 – Shark Tank, Investing, and Daily MentorSupport the show

Recorded live at SocialWest 2025 in Calgary, this special episode of the Marketing News Canada podcast features a conversation with Joshua Counsil, Co-Founder of Good Robot Brewing and guest host Meredith McKeough.Joshua shares candid lessons from building a multi-dimensional hospitality and beverage business spanning beer, non-alcoholic drinks, events, and co-packing for major retailers like Costco. The conversation explores why guest experience is one of the most powerful marketing tools available, how storytelling influences customers, employees, and even lenders, and why scrappy, generous marketing often outperforms big-budget campaigns.From navigating PR crises to designing small moments that create outsized word-of-mouth, this episode is packed with practical insights for marketers, founders, and brand leaders looking to build trust, loyalty, and long-term growth.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brittany Benson. *** ### **Purpose of the Interview** The interview on *Money Making Conversations Masterclass* aimed to: * Showcase Brittany Benson’s journey as a **brand strategist**, **AI consultant**, and founder of **The Branding Bar**.* Educate entrepreneurs and small business owners on **branding**, **social media strategy**, and the **impact of AI** on marketing.* Inspire listeners to leverage technology and consistency to build authentic brands. *** ### **Key Takeaways** 1. **Early Branding Journey** * Brittany unknowingly started building her brand in college through her TV show *On the Air with Brittany B*. * She leveraged early platforms like YouTube and Facebook before “social media” was a term. 2. **Consistency is Key** * Success in branding comes from **consistent engagement**, even before monetization was possible. * Brittany grew her Instagram following to over 130,000 by focusing on consistency rather than chasing trends. 3. **Influencer Myth** * Large follower counts don’t guarantee success; **engagement matters more than numbers**. * “If I have 2,500 followers who listen to me, that’s more powerful than 100,000 who don’t.” 4. **Paid vs. Organic Growth** * Paid ads can help, but **organic growth builds trust**. * Best practice: build an organic base first, then use paid ads to amplify. 5. **Pivot to AI** * Brittany pivoted from a traditional social media agency to **AI-driven branding solutions**. * She creates **AI twins** for business owners—digital replicas that can produce content without the owner being physically present. 6. **Generative AI in Marketing** * AI tools can create graphics, videos, and even voice clones. * Brittany emphasizes AI as a **tool to enhance workflow**, not replace human creativity. 7. **Consulting Approach** * Offers strategy calls to identify problems and recommend AI tools. * Services range from **strategy planning**, **consulting**, to **done-for-you solutions**. *** ### **Notable Quotes** * **On branding:** *“I was always building a brand, even when I didn’t realize I was building a brand.”* * **On engagement vs. followers:** *“If I have 2,500 followers who listen to me, that’s more powerful than 100,000 who don’t.”* * **On AI’s role:** *“AI is just a tool. It’s not going to replace your job—it still needs human direction.”* * **On staying ahead:** *“I’ve been told I have the gift of insight to see what’s coming, even if it’s not popular yet.”* * **On her pivot:** *“I started generating AI twins for business owners so they could show up online without showing up.”* *** #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brittany Benson. *** ### **Purpose of the Interview** The interview on *Money Making Conversations Masterclass* aimed to: * Showcase Brittany Benson’s journey as a **brand strategist**, **AI consultant**, and founder of **The Branding Bar**.* Educate entrepreneurs and small business owners on **branding**, **social media strategy**, and the **impact of AI** on marketing.* Inspire listeners to leverage technology and consistency to build authentic brands. *** ### **Key Takeaways** 1. **Early Branding Journey** * Brittany unknowingly started building her brand in college through her TV show *On the Air with Brittany B*. * She leveraged early platforms like YouTube and Facebook before “social media” was a term. 2. **Consistency is Key** * Success in branding comes from **consistent engagement**, even before monetization was possible. * Brittany grew her Instagram following to over 130,000 by focusing on consistency rather than chasing trends. 3. **Influencer Myth** * Large follower counts don’t guarantee success; **engagement matters more than numbers**. * “If I have 2,500 followers who listen to me, that’s more powerful than 100,000 who don’t.” 4. **Paid vs. Organic Growth** * Paid ads can help, but **organic growth builds trust**. * Best practice: build an organic base first, then use paid ads to amplify. 5. **Pivot to AI** * Brittany pivoted from a traditional social media agency to **AI-driven branding solutions**. * She creates **AI twins** for business owners—digital replicas that can produce content without the owner being physically present. 6. **Generative AI in Marketing** * AI tools can create graphics, videos, and even voice clones. * Brittany emphasizes AI as a **tool to enhance workflow**, not replace human creativity. 7. **Consulting Approach** * Offers strategy calls to identify problems and recommend AI tools. * Services range from **strategy planning**, **consulting**, to **done-for-you solutions**. *** ### **Notable Quotes** * **On branding:** *“I was always building a brand, even when I didn’t realize I was building a brand.”* * **On engagement vs. followers:** *“If I have 2,500 followers who listen to me, that’s more powerful than 100,000 who don’t.”* * **On AI’s role:** *“AI is just a tool. It’s not going to replace your job—it still needs human direction.”* * **On staying ahead:** *“I’ve been told I have the gift of insight to see what’s coming, even if it’s not popular yet.”* * **On her pivot:** *“I started generating AI twins for business owners so they could show up online without showing up.”* *** #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nima Jalali built SALT & STONE out of his apartment into a $100M+ brand, without ever pitching a single retailer. After an ACL injury redirected his path, he created something he desperately wanted but didn't exist, a high quality, clean deodorant, that actually performs. SALT & STONE has now become one of the fastest growing brands in the space to-date by doing things differently. Even right now, every 60 seconds a SALT & STONE deodorant is bought.  In this candid conversation Nima opens up about transitioning from a pro surfboarder into the Founder role, what it takes to build a killer team, and what keeps him going. He reveals the counter-intuitive strategy that got Sephora to come to him, and how he iterated his deodorant formula through 5 generations before calling it perfect. You'll Learn: Why going through 5+ product iterations beats launching "good enough"The digital excellence strategy that makes retailers chase you (not the other way around)How to build legacy brand positioning even as a one-person startupWhy getting a "no" from retailers too early can kill your momentumThe mindset shift from solo athlete to team builderThe key to building a digital identity that inspires & attracts customersCHAPTERS: 00:00 Introducing Nima Jalali, Founder & CEO of SALT & STONE3:00 Transitioning from Pro Snowboarder to Business Owner 4:55 The 5 Generations of Product Perfection6:45 How to Think Like Nike When You're a One-Man Show8:13 What Nima Did to Build a Brand Sephora NEEDS to Have10:09 Steps to Achieve Digital Excellence 12:39 SALT & STONE'S Philosophy on: Ingredient Sourcing, Product Development & Testing 19:06 How to Set Your Business Up to Grow Into a Legacy Brand From Day 1  22:07 The Retail Strategy That Never Fails 28:35 Tackling Global Expansion & Managing Expectations as a Founder   29:55 Single Most Impactful Thing NIma Did in The First 6 Months That Made SALT & STONE Successful  Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Brittany Benson. *** ### **Purpose of the Interview** The interview on *Money Making Conversations Masterclass* aimed to: * Showcase Brittany Benson’s journey as a **brand strategist**, **AI consultant**, and founder of **The Branding Bar**.* Educate entrepreneurs and small business owners on **branding**, **social media strategy**, and the **impact of AI** on marketing.* Inspire listeners to leverage technology and consistency to build authentic brands. *** ### **Key Takeaways** 1. **Early Branding Journey** * Brittany unknowingly started building her brand in college through her TV show *On the Air with Brittany B*. * She leveraged early platforms like YouTube and Facebook before “social media” was a term. 2. **Consistency is Key** * Success in branding comes from **consistent engagement**, even before monetization was possible. * Brittany grew her Instagram following to over 130,000 by focusing on consistency rather than chasing trends. 3. **Influencer Myth** * Large follower counts don’t guarantee success; **engagement matters more than numbers**. * “If I have 2,500 followers who listen to me, that’s more powerful than 100,000 who don’t.” 4. **Paid vs. Organic Growth** * Paid ads can help, but **organic growth builds trust**. * Best practice: build an organic base first, then use paid ads to amplify. 5. **Pivot to AI** * Brittany pivoted from a traditional social media agency to **AI-driven branding solutions**. * She creates **AI twins** for business owners—digital replicas that can produce content without the owner being physically present. 6. **Generative AI in Marketing** * AI tools can create graphics, videos, and even voice clones. * Brittany emphasizes AI as a **tool to enhance workflow**, not replace human creativity. 7. **Consulting Approach** * Offers strategy calls to identify problems and recommend AI tools. * Services range from **strategy planning**, **consulting**, to **done-for-you solutions**. *** ### **Notable Quotes** * **On branding:** *“I was always building a brand, even when I didn’t realize I was building a brand.”* * **On engagement vs. followers:** *“If I have 2,500 followers who listen to me, that’s more powerful than 100,000 who don’t.”* * **On AI’s role:** *“AI is just a tool. It’s not going to replace your job—it still needs human direction.”* * **On staying ahead:** *“I’ve been told I have the gift of insight to see what’s coming, even if it’s not popular yet.”* * **On her pivot:** *“I started generating AI twins for business owners so they could show up online without showing up.”* *** #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

On this episode, Joel is joined by an award-winning guest who has been igniting digital strategy conversations for 15 years and counting. Jessica Best is the self-proclaimed email marketing evangelist and Owner of BetterAve LLC. It's the consultancy implementing the same practices she preaches from stages around the world. By turning data into insight and insight into action, she demonstrates the power of data-driven storytelling. Allowing business owners to optimize their results, so they can get back to doing more of what they already do so well.Website: https://better-ave.com/ | https://jessica.best/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bestofjesspics/?hl=en Twitter: https://x.com/bestofjess/with_repliesCheck out the conversation on YouTube: https://youtu.be/vT2-ylB5XpI

In an era when many consumer brands chased venture capital and rapid expansion, Andrew Benin, CEO and Co-Founder of Graza, took a different path. Since launching in 2022, his olive oil brand has become known for its distinctive squeeze bottle packaging and methodical approach to growth, prioritizing product quality and strategic partnerships over instant gratification. Benin's journey from cooking at Gramercy Tavern to building what he believes will be a top-two olive oil company offers a masterclass in patient brand building. In this conversation, we explore Graza's unconventional approach to sourcing, the strategy behind its iconic packaging, how the brand navigated early retail partnerships, and what Benin sees as the future of consumer brand building.

The college price tag keeps climbing, but draining savings or delaying retirement doesn't have to be your only option. We sit down with Lance Morgan, founder of College Funding Secrets, to map out a step-by-step approach for turning smart real estate moves and tax strategy into a reliable engine that pays for tuition while protecting your future. Lance pulls back the curtain on why many high earners miss out on aid, how 529 plans can quietly work against you, and where short-term rentals can create the kind of “tax scholarships” that rival the cost of a private university.We get specific about the short-term rental advantage: active losses that can offset W‑2 income, the return of 100% bonus depreciation, and the FAFSA timing that makes junior year of high school a pivotal window. You'll hear how to underwrite an STR with real data—occupancy, average daily rate, and seasonality—using tools like AirDNA, and why design, amenities, and ranking on page one are the difference between middling revenue and top-percentile performance. Lance shares practical operating tactics for a hands-off model with management baked into the numbers, so you're not spending weekends washing sheets.We also dig into asset positioning to avoid common aid mistakes. Learn which accounts count against you, why retirement vehicles often don't, how to value property conservatively for aid forms, and when the CSS profile changes the rules for private schools. For liquidity and resilience, Lance explains using a properly structured life insurance policy as a source of low-rate loans for down payments and slow seasons, so you preserve compounding while keeping your real estate plan moving. By the end, you'll have a clear playbook to fund college through cash-flowing assets, reduce taxes, and keep your retirement on track.If this strategy guide helps, follow and subscribe, share it with a friend who's staring down tuition, and leave a quick review so more families can discover smarter ways to pay for college.How to connect with Lance?Website: https://collegecostsecrets.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/collegefundingeducation/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lance-morgan-college-funding-secrets/Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Lance_CollegeFundingSecrets Ready to scale your Amazon business? Click here to book a strategy call. https://calendly.com/firingtheman/amazon Support the show

Welcome to another thought-provoking episode of Build a Better Agency! This week, host Drew McLellan welcomes brand strategist and agency veteran Ulli Appelbaum to dive deep into the science of brand associations—a topic that's often referenced but rarely explored with the rigor it deserves. If you've ever struggled to quantify the value of your agency's or your client's brand, this episode will provide you with the data-backed frameworks and practical wisdom you've been searching for. Drawing on decades of experience across leading global agencies and his own consultancy, Ulli Appelbaum shares key insights from his new book, "The Science of Brand Associations: When Minds Win Markets." Together, he and Drew McLellan break down what brand associations really are, why they matter for long-term growth, and how emotional resonance and consistency are critical in embedding brands into consumer memory. Whether you're building brands for clients or shaping the reputation of your own agency, Ulli Appelbaum's science-based approach gives you the tools to move beyond gut instinct towards strategies that drive measurable results. The episode covers actionable strategies for identifying and cultivating the right brand associations, crafting memorable brand assets, and leveraging the power of emotional storytelling—even in B2B environments. You'll also learn how to use frameworks and scorecards to focus your branding efforts on what really matters, ensuring your brand stands out distinctly against competitors. Plus, the discussion explores why brands with strong association networks rebound faster from economic downturns and command higher price premiums.   Don't miss this episode if you're ready to combine creativity and data in a way that elevates your agency's brand work—and your own brand presence—above the noise. By the end, you'll walk away with practical tools to guide both client conversations and your agency's growth, grounded in proven science rather than simple opinion.   A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: The science behind brand associations and why they matter Data-backed reasons brand associations drive growth and profitability How emotional impact and memory structure strengthen brands The power of consistency and distinctiveness in brand assets Using frameworks and scorecards to build effective brands The surprising resurgence and importance of brand characters Practical tools agencies can use to differentiate themselves and their clients

Send us a textThis episode comes straight from my own breakthroughs. I used to roll my eyes at the whole “build a community online” thing because it felt so cliché. But here's what changed everything for me: a brand is not built by posting more. It is built by creating a place people genuinely want to come back to. A space that feels like a seat at the table, not a pitch. Today I am breaking down how I shifted from pushing content to designing connection… and how that shift has been the smartest business move I have ever madLet's get into it!Grab The Audience Growth Guide: https://www.brittneyceo.com/product-page/audience-growth-guideJoin the Growth Lounge - https://www.brittneyceo.com/growthGet My 7 Figure Guide: https://brittney-ceo.mykajabi.com/offers/fbKnBwSM/checkoutGet my FREE weekly biz babe moves straight to your inboxhttps://view.flodesk.com/pages/624b64b2a15594c239cada7bJoin my Facebook Grouphttps://www.facebook.com/groups/131279237732613Follow me on Ig @brittneyceo for my daily life, hot biz tips, and morehttps://www.instagram.com/brittneyceo/

After a decade in high-performance finance at Goldman Sachs and Oaktree Capital, Hilary Hoffman realized the metrics she was optimizing for were no longer aligned with the life she wanted. She left the boardroom to build Soto Method, a results-driven fitness program rooted in discipline, measurable progress, and the truths she saw in the lives of ambitious, overextended people.In this conversation, Hilary shares the moment passion eclipsed stability, the soft skills she spent 10,000 hours developing in finance, and how these same traits (grit, adaptability, and structured focus) now define her founder journey. “One more second” became the heart of her method. She explains how she engineered recurring revenue to self-fund early growth and how a three-month Tribeca pop-up unexpectedly evolved into a sold-out proof of concept.Hilary also opens up about hiring her first key team member, what “willingness” really means in the people she brings on, and how she's building a meritocratic culture where initiative matters more than résumé. As a new mom of twins, she reflects on redefining success, creating boundaries with urgency, and why structure has become her antidote to overwhelm. From scaling an app into a brick-and-mortar brand to raising a strategic first round for national expansion, Hilary offers a grounded, honest look at what it takes to build something distinct in one of the most competitive industries in the world.Timestamps:[00:00] Introduction[04:52] What signaled Hilary to leave finance[09:38] How adapting your energy shifts how people receive you[13:27] Measurable progress defines Soto Method[17:56] Hiring for willingness reshaped Hilary's first key role[21:44] High performers engineer discipline through structure instead of motivation[26:33] How sequencing sessions, the app, and pop-ups fueled sustainable scale[30:50] How a three-month pop-up became a sold-out launchpad for expansion[34:41] What motherhood taught Hilary about redefining urgency, boundaries, and success[38:55] The simple daily practice Hilary uses to defuse stress Resources Mentioned:Founders Podcast by David Senra | Spotify or AppleLearn more about Hilary Hoffman:Hilary Hoffman | InstagramHilary Hoffman | LinkedInSoto Method | WebsiteSoto Method | InstagramFollow Nancy Twine:Instagram: @nancytwinewww.nancytwine.comFollow Makers Mindset:Instagram: @makersmindsetspaceTikTok: @themakersmindsetwww.makersmindset.com

Join us as we explore the power of story telling for entrepreneurs! Learn essential business tips and how to adopt the right entrepreneur mindset. Discover how a creative strategist can leverage branding and marketing digital to grow your business with compelling stories.Jake Isham is a filmmaker-turned-brand strategist and creative director who helps founders and entrepreneurs turn their expertise into authority through powerful storytelling. Over the past decade, Jake has worked with more than 150 entrepreneurs and companies— including Grant Cardone, Callaway, 5.11 Tactical, and Travis Mathew—creating content that's generated over 1 billion views online. Jake focuses on blending his background in filmmaking with deep marketing strategy, with creating digital shows and social media content for CEOs and entrepreneurs to cut through the noise by crafting content that builds trust, drives visibility, and creates true omnipresence across platforms.Whether scaling a founder-led brand or launching a thought leadership show, Jake brings a unique creative lens and proven playbooks that turn storytelling into growth.Company: Creative MindsWebsite: https://digitalshow.creativemindsofficial.com/ Email: create@creativemindsofficial.com Social Media:LinkedIN - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jakeisham/ Instagram - https://instagram.com/Jakecreativemarketing Remember to SUBSCRIBE so you don't miss "Information That You Can Use." Share Just Minding My Business with your family, friends, and colleagues. Engage with us by leaving a review or comment on my Google Business Page. https://g.page/r/CVKSq-IsFaY9EBM/review Your support keeps this podcast going and growing. Visit Just Minding My Business Media™ LLC at https://jmmbmediallc.com/ to learn how we can help you get more visibility on your products and services. 

In this episode of Scratch, Viren sits down with Alex Ames, Marketing Director at Manors Golf, the challenger brand bringing new energy, creativity, and cultural relevance to a sport long seen as elitist and inaccessible. Manors believes golf is a game to be explored, not mastered, and they are reshaping the category one cinematic campaign at a time.Alex unpacks how Manors went from a small rebrand to a movement inspiring a new generation of golfers. He dives into the brand's early struggles (“the Dark Ages”), how events helped them rediscover momentum, and how the team realised that attention—not product, was their true currency. He reveals the internal creative engine behind Manors' iconic films, from Monday forensic reviews to Thursday idea punch-ups, and how viral thinking shapes every concept.The episode covers everything from the Reebok partnership (and why they avoid “brand soup”), to location-led campaigns, to how everyday golfers and celebrities ended up sharing the tee sheet at Manors events. For marketers, the message is clear: if you want to change a category, change the story people tell about it.Watch the video version of this podcast on Youtube ▶️: YT Link          

For Steve Dennis and Michael LeBlanc's final episode recorded live at the CommerceNext Growth show, they welcome two visionary leaders from Tapestry, the global house of brands that includes Coach and Kate Spade: Pooja Chandiramani, VP Global Media Strategy & Planning, Marketing Analytics, Operations and Transformation, and Avinash Kaushik, Brand Strategy & Marketing Transformation.Pooja and Avinash unpack Tapestry's ongoing transformation, which embeds analytics as a core pillar of brand growth. For Coach in particular, analytics isn't just incremental—it's a complete transformation journey. By using data to generate insights that directly drive business impact, Tapestry ensures marketing investments are accountable, measurable, and tied to outcomes.Avinash, a globally recognized thought leader and author, explains how Tapestry embraces intent-centric marketing to connect authentically with consumers. Moving beyond the outdated “accessible luxury” positioning, the company has shifted toward "expressive luxury"—a modern framework that reflects values-driven, authentic consumer engagement, particularly resonant with younger audiences.The conversation dives into the cultural foundations necessary for analytics to thrive. Avinash emphasizes that “culture is more important than data,” crediting Tapestry's CEO Joanne Crevoiserat and senior leadership for creating an environment where data can challenge assumptions and guide decisions. This culture enables bold experiments, including measuring the incrementality of brand marketing—one of the toughest questions in retail.Pooja highlights how creative pre-testing has become a critical unlock. By partnering with Human Made Machine, Tapestry tests campaigns with real audiences before investing media spend. This approach ensures that creative—responsible for up to 70% of marketing impact—delivers measurable results in driving brand awareness and incremental sales. It's a cultural shift, moving from subjective opinions about creative to decisions grounded in data.The episode also explores the role of AI and machine learning in accelerating agility, simplifying decision-making frameworks, and enabling global scalability. Both leaders stress that outcomes-based planning—rather than activity-based planning—keeps Tapestry aligned with its ambitious growth goals.  About UsJennifer MarloHead of Content, CommerceNextJennifer Marlo drives industry-leading programming at CommerceNext, drawing on experience from Ascendant Network and iMedia Connection, where she spearheaded content strategies to inspire retail, brand and agency marketing leaders. Guided by the belief that “a rising tide lifts all boats,” Jennifer uses in-person and digital platforms to educate and foster industry collaboration. Steve Dennis is a strategic advisor and keynote speaker focused on growth and innovation, who has also been named one of the world's top retail influencers. He is the bestselling authro of two books: Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption and Remarkable Retail: How To Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption. Steve regularly shares his insights in his role as a Forbes senior retail contributor and on social media.Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, top retail influencer, keynote speaker and media entrepreneur. Michael produces and hosts a network of leading retail trade podcasts, including the award-winning No.1 independent retail industry podcast in America, Remarkable Retail with his partner, Dallas-based best-selling author Steve Dennis; Canada's top retail industry podcast The Voice of Retail and Canada's top food industry and one of the top Canadian-produced management independent podcasts in the country, The Food Professor with Dr. Sylvain Charlebois from Dalhousie University in Halifax.

Only 15% of brand assets are truly distinctive. GoodRx broke their industry's mold with a prairie dog sidekick and singing cowgirl. But behind the bold creative lies a data-driven philosophy that challenges everything performance marketers think they know.This week, Elena, Angela, and Rob sit down with Ryan Sullivan, CMO of GoodRx. Ryan shares his evolution from hardcore performance marketer to someone who questions the very foundations of digital attribution. Learn why he's skeptical of multi-touch attribution, how GoodRx measures success through triangulation, and why increasing "surface area" matters more than hyper-targeting.Topics covered: [05:00] Why brand search attribution is misleading[08:30] The hidden costs of programmatic display advertising[15:00] GoodRx's unique challenge of reaching out-of-market consumers[19:30] Creating distinctive brand assets with the Savings Wrangler[32:00] Building confidence through triangulated measurement[36:00] The concept of "free marketing" and reducing control To learn more, visit marketingarchitects.com/podcast or subscribe to our newsletter at marketingarchitects.com/newsletter.  Resources: 2025 eMarketer Article: https://www.emarketer.com/content/goodrx-s-new-feel-good-campaign-seeks-break-through-healthcare-advertising-noiseRyan Sullivan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanjsullivan/GoodRx Website: https://www.goodrx.com/ Get more research-backed marketing strategies by subscribing to The Marketing Architects on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Renard “Ray” Sims. Topic: Entrepreneurship, property management, and building generational wealth through real estate. Ray Sims shares his journey from government employee to entrepreneur, founding a property management company in the Metro DC area. He discusses the challenges of transitioning into business ownership, the structure of his company, and the importance of networking, automation, and community service.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Lamar Tyler.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Renard “Ray” Sims. Topic: Entrepreneurship, property management, and building generational wealth through real estate. Ray Sims shares his journey from government employee to entrepreneur, founding a property management company in the Metro DC area. He discusses the challenges of transitioning into business ownership, the structure of his company, and the importance of networking, automation, and community service.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Lamar Tyler.

Phil Masiello is a visionary entrepreneur, best-selling author, and host of the popular show Crunching Your Growth on e360tv, bringing over two decades of proven experience in e-commerce, digital marketing, and disruptive brand building. As the founder of CrunchGrowth Revenue Acceleration Agency, Phil strategically guides consumer-focused startups and brands to achieve rapid and sustainable growth by harnessing innovative digital strategies, powerful storytelling, and deep consumer insights. His practical, real-world experience, illustrated through successful ventures like 800razors.com and Raw Essentials Skin Care, helps startups overcome common scaling obstacles, optimize their sales channels, elevate brand visibility, and engage deeply with customers, driving accelerated revenues and profitability.Connect with Phil here: https://philmasiello.com/Don't forget to get our FREE LinkedIn Content Prompts here:https://www.thetimetogrow.com/ecsposttemplates

Taza Chocolate didn't follow trends—it built a lasting brand by doubling down on its differences. Founders Alex Whitmore and Kathleen Fulton share how staying true to their product, owning their manufacturing, and leading with purpose helped them weather crises and grow a resilient business.For more on Taza Chocolate and show notes click here Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Renard “Ray” Sims. Topic: Entrepreneurship, property management, and building generational wealth through real estate. Ray Sims shares his journey from government employee to entrepreneur, founding a property management company in the Metro DC area. He discusses the challenges of transitioning into business ownership, the structure of his company, and the importance of networking, automation, and community service.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Lamar Tyler.

Episode 591 of the Lawyerist Podcast explores one of the most urgent questions facing law firms today: how do you stay findable when Google and AI are rewriting the rules of search? SEO expert Cyrus Shepard explains how zero-click search, AI-generated answers, and new “experience” signals are transforming the way law firms must think about content, visibility, and online authority.  Cyrus and Stephanie discuss why informational blog posts no longer drive the traffic they once did, how to structure content so LLMs can “read” and reference it, and why brand signals now carry more weight than keywords. They also cover how to evaluate SEO vendors, what metrics matter in an AI-first world, and simple steps lawyers can take to establish trust and expertise online.    Links from the episode:  lawyerist.com/scorecard  Zyppy.com    Listen to our previous episodes about Practical AI for Law.   #562 – Beyond ChatGPT: The AI Revolution Happening Inside Your Firm, with Charreau Bell — Apple | Spotify | LTN  #565 – Becoming the AI-Driven Leader, with Geoff Woods — Apple | Spotify | LTN  #452 – Managing AI in Your Practice, with Ed Walters — Apple | Spotify | LTN  #501 – Future-Proofing Your Firm in the Age of AI, with Jack Newton — Apple | Spotify | LTN    Have thoughts about today's episode? Join the conversation on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, and X!  If today's podcast resonates with you and you haven't read The Small Firm Roadmap Revisited yet, get the first chapter right now for free! Looking for help beyond the book? See if our coaching community is right for you.  Access more resources from Lawyerist at lawyerist.com.    Chapters / Timestamps:   00:00 – Intro & Scorecard03:53 – Meet Cyrus Shepard05:12 – How AI Is Changing Search06:00 – Zero-Click & AI Overviews07:26 – Why Old Content Tactics Fail08:57 – Shifting Toward Brand Authority10:09 – Writing Content LLMs Can Read11:33 – Showing Experience with E-E-A-T14:23 – Reddit, YouTube & Source Signals15:51 – Where New Firms Should Start17:18 – Brand Building as SEO Strategy18:27 – Vetting SEO Agencies Today20:40 – Metrics That Actually Matter22:03 – Real-World Visibility Wins22:21 – Wrap-Up & Where to Find Cyrus 

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Will Moreland.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Will Moreland.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Will Moreland.

In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Matt Blevins, Chief Marketing Officer at Heaven Hill Brands.Matt shares why long-term brand building remains essential in the spirits category and how disciplined measurement guides smarter decision-making. He explains how digital discovery, from YouTube mixology to Reddit communities, shapes in-store behavior, and why premiumization, moderation, and innovation are the real forces reshaping today's beverage alcohol landscape.Additionally, he also breaks down how Heaven Hill decides when to modernize a brand, why nuance is missing from industry headlines, and what it takes to stay grounded in consumer truth while the marketing world chases real-time optimization.Key takeawaysLong-term brand building and strategic patience remain essential in spiritsDigital discovery now heavily shapes in-store purchase decisionsPremiumization, moderation, and innovation continue to drive category trendsBrand modernization works best when rooted in product truth and distinctiveness Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Katrice Miller. A nationally recognized labor relations expert and career coach. The conversation explores her journey from federal government service to corporate leadership, her insights on labor law, personal branding, and how individuals can navigate layoffs, negotiate salaries, and build resilient careers.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald, interviewed Katrice Miller. A nationally recognized labor relations expert and career coach. The conversation explores her journey from federal government service to corporate leadership, her insights on labor law, personal branding, and how individuals can navigate layoffs, negotiate salaries, and build resilient careers.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Lawrence Phillips. Purpose of the Interview To showcase Lawrence Phillips’ entrepreneurial journey from engineering to founding Green Book Global, a travel review platform for Black travelers. To highlight the significance of Black Ambition, an initiative by Pharrell Williams supporting Black and Brown entrepreneurs. To inspire listeners about resilience, innovation, and the importance of culturally inclusive travel resources. Key Takeaways Background & Career Shift Phillips studied Electrical Engineering at Georgia Tech and worked at Accenture in IT consulting for nearly a decade. Despite career success, he felt unfulfilled and decided to pursue his passion for travel, leading to the creation of Green Book Global. Travel Experience Traveled to 30+ countries across all seven continents, including Antarctica, in less than a year. Realized the need for a platform addressing “traveling while Black” concerns—safety, cultural acceptance, and inclusivity. Green Book Global Inspired by the historical Green Book (1936–1966), which guided Black travelers during segregation. Offers city-level Black-friendly scores, road trip planners, and Black-owned restaurant recommendations. Over 150,000 app downloads in 2025; partnered with Expedia; strong social media presence. Black Ambition Program Phillips applied three times before reaching semifinals, emphasizing persistence. Program provided funding opportunities and a transformative Evoke Wellness experience. His personal “why” statement:“I’m a protective and innovative steward of Black restoration and healing.” Impact & Vision Advocates systemic change by partnering with destinations to improve inclusivity. Highlights the economic power of Black travelers (over $140 billion annually). Encourages Black travelers to explore global opportunities beyond U.S. racial constraints. Notable Quotes “You can be successful and still not be happy.” — On leaving a lucrative career for passion. “I’m a protective and innovative steward of Black restoration and healing.” — His guiding principle. “There’s riches in niches.” — On unapologetically focusing on Black travelers. “Just because somebody said no doesn’t mean they said no to you—they said no at that time.” — On persistence in entrepreneurship. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Lawrence Phillips. Purpose of the Interview To showcase Lawrence Phillips’ entrepreneurial journey from engineering to founding Green Book Global, a travel review platform for Black travelers. To highlight the significance of Black Ambition, an initiative by Pharrell Williams supporting Black and Brown entrepreneurs. To inspire listeners about resilience, innovation, and the importance of culturally inclusive travel resources. Key Takeaways Background & Career Shift Phillips studied Electrical Engineering at Georgia Tech and worked at Accenture in IT consulting for nearly a decade. Despite career success, he felt unfulfilled and decided to pursue his passion for travel, leading to the creation of Green Book Global. Travel Experience Traveled to 30+ countries across all seven continents, including Antarctica, in less than a year. Realized the need for a platform addressing “traveling while Black” concerns—safety, cultural acceptance, and inclusivity. Green Book Global Inspired by the historical Green Book (1936–1966), which guided Black travelers during segregation. Offers city-level Black-friendly scores, road trip planners, and Black-owned restaurant recommendations. Over 150,000 app downloads in 2025; partnered with Expedia; strong social media presence. Black Ambition Program Phillips applied three times before reaching semifinals, emphasizing persistence. Program provided funding opportunities and a transformative Evoke Wellness experience. His personal “why” statement:“I’m a protective and innovative steward of Black restoration and healing.” Impact & Vision Advocates systemic change by partnering with destinations to improve inclusivity. Highlights the economic power of Black travelers (over $140 billion annually). Encourages Black travelers to explore global opportunities beyond U.S. racial constraints. Notable Quotes “You can be successful and still not be happy.” — On leaving a lucrative career for passion. “I’m a protective and innovative steward of Black restoration and healing.” — His guiding principle. “There’s riches in niches.” — On unapologetically focusing on Black travelers. “Just because somebody said no doesn’t mean they said no to you—they said no at that time.” — On persistence in entrepreneurship. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Dr. Will Moreland.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Felecia Hatcher. Purpose of the Interview To spotlight Black Ambition, a national initiative founded by Pharrell Williams that funds and mentors Black and Brown entrepreneurs. To promote the upcoming Black Ambition Demo Day and Fundable Founders Forum in Miami. To inspire entrepreneurs by sharing insights on scaling businesses, accessing resources, and building wealth. Key Takeaways About Black Ambition Founded by Pharrell Williams to close the opportunity gap for Black and Hispanic entrepreneurs. Has invested in 131 companies over five years. Provides capital, mentorship, and holistic support (including mental health). Event Details Demo Day (Nov 14): Entrepreneurs pitch and receive funding. Fundable Founders Forum (Nov 15): Masterclasses with industry leaders like Steve Stoute, Nancy Twine, and Linda Clemens. Focus on actionable strategies, not just inspiration. Competition Structure Annual national competition with 2,500–3,000 applications. Categories include HBCU founders, national finalists, top prize winners, and people’s choice. Process: Applications → 250 semifinalists → 3-month cohort → Top 20–25 awarded funding. Challenges & Advice Many entrepreneurs fail due to rushed applications and lack of preparation. Success requires persistence: “Apply again” if you fail. Building a team is essential—Black Ambition does not invest in solopreneurs. Impact on Black Women Fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs but often limited by resources. Need to shift from solopreneurship to team-building for scalability. Pharrell’s Motivation Believes in democratizing opportunity. Inspired by those who invested in him early in his career. Goal: Close wealth and opportunity gaps quickly—“Wealth has a need for speed.” How to Get Involved Visit blackambitionprize.com and join the newsletter for alerts and resources. Past winners share insights in info sessions. Notable Quotes On closing gaps:“People are too comfortable wasting the time of Black entrepreneurs with misaligned resources and low vibrational mentorship.” On persistence:“If it doesn’t work on you in that moment, it works for you in that moment. Either way, it works.” On Pharrell’s vision:“Talent is not equally distributed by zip code, but opportunity can be.” On entrepreneurship mindset:“We have to start enjoying the process that molds us, not just say, ‘I didn’t make it, I’m upset.’” On Black women entrepreneurs:“They’re the fastest growing, but largely solopreneurs. We need them to think about building teams.” #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Lawrence Phillips. Purpose of the Interview To showcase Lawrence Phillips’ entrepreneurial journey from engineering to founding Green Book Global, a travel review platform for Black travelers. To highlight the significance of Black Ambition, an initiative by Pharrell Williams supporting Black and Brown entrepreneurs. To inspire listeners about resilience, innovation, and the importance of culturally inclusive travel resources. Key Takeaways Background & Career Shift Phillips studied Electrical Engineering at Georgia Tech and worked at Accenture in IT consulting for nearly a decade. Despite career success, he felt unfulfilled and decided to pursue his passion for travel, leading to the creation of Green Book Global. Travel Experience Traveled to 30+ countries across all seven continents, including Antarctica, in less than a year. Realized the need for a platform addressing “traveling while Black” concerns—safety, cultural acceptance, and inclusivity. Green Book Global Inspired by the historical Green Book (1936–1966), which guided Black travelers during segregation. Offers city-level Black-friendly scores, road trip planners, and Black-owned restaurant recommendations. Over 150,000 app downloads in 2025; partnered with Expedia; strong social media presence. Black Ambition Program Phillips applied three times before reaching semifinals, emphasizing persistence. Program provided funding opportunities and a transformative Evoke Wellness experience. His personal “why” statement:“I’m a protective and innovative steward of Black restoration and healing.” Impact & Vision Advocates systemic change by partnering with destinations to improve inclusivity. Highlights the economic power of Black travelers (over $140 billion annually). Encourages Black travelers to explore global opportunities beyond U.S. racial constraints. Notable Quotes “You can be successful and still not be happy.” — On leaving a lucrative career for passion. “I’m a protective and innovative steward of Black restoration and healing.” — His guiding principle. “There’s riches in niches.” — On unapologetically focusing on Black travelers. “Just because somebody said no doesn’t mean they said no to you—they said no at that time.” — On persistence in entrepreneurship. #SHMS #STRAW #BESTSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.