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Ted speaks with Charles Ochello and Morgan Lemaitre about the evolving landscape of luxury real estate in Park City and Deer Valley, highlighting the collaboration among local leaders, the economic trends influencing the market, and the significance of brand loyalty and asset security. They explore the unique attributes of Utah's natural resources and the community's commitment to strategic planning for future growth, particularly in light of the upcoming Olympics.TOPICS DISCUSSED01:10 Introduction and Personal Anecdotes03:47 Event Overview and Insights06:52 Economic Trends and Global Perspectives09:58 Luxury Market Evolution and Consumer Expectations12:39 The Future of Luxury in Park City15:32 Brand Loyalty and Market Dynamics19:44 The Trust Factor in Luxury Brands22:18 Collaboration and Government Support in Utah24:14 The Entrepreneurial Spirit of Utah26:36 Asset Security in Luxury Real Estate29:24 The Role of Iconic Brands in Real Estate32:09 The Shift Towards Legacy Investments35:13 The Importance of Land and Lifestyle in Utah38:02 The Future of Luxury and Community Planning CONNECT WITH GUESTCharles Ochello and Morgan LemaitreVitruvius Built WebsiteCharles LinkedInMorgan LinkedInPark City Wealth Advisors WebsiteKEY QUOTES FROM EPISODE"This is where luxury meets growth.""Scarcity drives the luxury market.""The collaboration in Utah is palpable."
Whether you're a Swiftie or not, Taylor Swift's influence on global spending and the marketing strategies behind her success are impossible to ignore. In this episode, Deirdre Booth and I explore how AEC firms can draw inspiration from Taylor Swift's innovative marketing tactics to create their own opportunities for growth.
“[What] a lot of sonic branding agencies aren't aware of is that sonic branding can also be used as a tool to address a concern that the client might have. So, for example, a new competitor has come in and now they feel dated. Okay, let's write a sonic branding that's based around being modern. Okay, they've had a big knock on trust, like I mentioned before, with a data breach. This is a great opportunity to write a sonic branding that builds customer trust. So, it can be used as another mode along with your visuals, along with your tone of voice. Your branding tone of voice is in, like, the words that are spoken, not the like the language, right? It's a tool to convey your brand.” – Dr. Thomas Dickson This episode is the second half of my conversation with musicologist and sonic branding strategist Dr. Thomas Dickson as he shares his thoughts on maintaining a long-term branding, the growing use of AI for everything from monitoring to mock-ups, and the versatility of an effective sonic logo. As always, if you have questions for my guest, you're welcome to reach out through the links in the show notes. If you have questions for me, visit audiobrandingpodcast.com, where you'll find a lot of ways to get in touch. Plus, subscribing to the newsletter will let you know when the new podcasts are available, along with other interesting bits of audio-related news. And if you're getting some value from listening, the best ways to show your support are to share this podcast with a friend and leave an honest review. Both those things really help, and I'd love to feature your review on future podcasts. You can leave one either in written or in voice format from the podcast's main page. I would so appreciate that. (0:00:01) - Impact of Sonic Branding VariationsMy conversation with Dr. Dickson picks up as we talk about the challenge of maintaining a consistent audio brand through changing management and brand strategies. “They might not even have been strategically sonic branding,” he notes. “It could have just been some brand music that they turned into a mnemonic or brand music they've just been using for years, and then a brand manager will come in and just throw out everything.” He points out McDonald's as a prime example of an audio brand that's only gotten stronger over the past twenty-five years, and how consistency has been its key to success. “It's a really good case study for sonic branding agencies to look at,” he says, “how you can take a mnemonic [and] use it in, there's videos on YouTube where it's, like, using like thirty different contexts, and it's just changed instrumentation slightly, changed the speed, [and] added swing .”(0:07:38) - Sonic Branding Evolution and ImpactDr. Dickson tells us about his worth with agencies that are increasingly turning to AI for solutions, especially when it comes to catching online plagiarism. “They are using AI to identify melodies that are shared and then taking them to court once the melody's been used sufficiently,” he cautions. “Day one, a song comes out, they don't take them to court. They wait till the song is a massive hit and it's got enough revenue, and then they take them to court.” We discuss AI's growing presence in everything from audio mastering and editing to generating new music, and he points out some of the roles he sees it filling over time. “I'm imagining in the future there will be the option to take a track,” he explains, “and then just [have AI] re-tailor it to that context and stretch it out so that, for the conference that goes for two hours, there's appropriate backing music based on your sonic branding.”(0:16:24) - Future of...
In this compelling new episode of The Voice of Retail, host Michael LeBlanc sits down with Jean-Pierre Lacroix, President of SLD (Shikatani Lacroix Design)—a global design visionary whose work has shaped retail and brand experiences for more than three decades. Lacroix joins the podcast to share insights from his groundbreaking new book, Think Blink: Creating Deep, Lasting, Emotional Brand Connections in the Blink of an Eye.Lacroix opens the conversation by tracing SLD's remarkable 35-year journey, highlighting how the agency's success is rooted in one powerful idea: the “blink factor”—the subconscious emotional connections consumers make with brands in just a thousandth of a second. Drawing from projects across North America, China, and the Middle East, he reveals how the firm's global perspective continues to drive innovation and authenticity in today's hyper-competitive landscape.Michael and Jean-Pierre dive into the Think Blink Manifesto and its seven tenets—from “The Heart Wins Every Time” and “Good Design is Strategy” to “Measure What Matters.” Lacroix explains why businesses must evolve from incremental improvement to transformational change, focusing less on functional benefits and more on emotional resonance. They explore how simplicity, belonging, and sentiment measurement fuel loyalty and growth—turning customers into brand ambassadors.The discussion also touches on global disruption and resilience. Lacroix reflects on how events like the pandemic and current trade tensions have permanently shifted consumer behaviour, accelerating digital adoption and sparking renewed nationalism and community pride. He emphasizes that disruption can be a positive force—nudging brands toward reinvention and greater purpose.Finally, Lacroix unveils SLD's new AI-powered Think Blink analysis tool, designed to quantify emotional engagement using real-world data and social insights. He argues that artificial intelligence, when applied thoughtfully, enhances creativity rather than replacing it—helping brands align emotion with measurable business growth. The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.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.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.
In this episode of the Medical Sales Podcast, Samuel sits down with medtech strategist and creator Omar M. Khateeb to unpack how startups, reps, and leaders can win attention and turn it into revenue in 2025. Omar shares why LinkedIn is still the #1 starting point, when to expand to X, Meta, and YouTube, and how senior leaders at brands like Intuitive and Zimmer use storytelling to engineer markets. They dig into what actually gets attention (novelty, unpredictability, depth), why “goals” matter less than the systems behind them, and how to think about changing minds through desire, social proof, and early adopters. You'll hear practical content rhythms (start with 3 posts/week), ways to leverage AI without sounding generic, and how founders and reps can build trust with transparency, consistency, and real value. They also hit the creator mindset: stop over planning, start publishing, seek inspiration, and measure what moves the business not just likes. If you're trying to break in, become a top performer, or scale a medtech brand, this conversation gives you the playbook to create, engage, and convert. Subscribe and share with a colleague who needs the edge. Connect with Omar M. Khateeb: LinkedIn Connect with Me: LinkedIn Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share! Here's How »
Build-A-Bear Workshop turned birthday rituals and heart ceremonies into a growth engine, with its stock up about 1,900 percent in five years and domestic store traffic up 3 percent while the national benchmark fell. Paula revisits her conversation with CTO Dara Meath to unpack the experience-first model, the rapid 18-month digital sprint from mobile POS to 2D/3D visualization, and the rise of the “kidult” that powers higher-value collecting and gifting. From clever social drops like the Fruit Stand to a culture that “sells stories, not items,” this episode breaks down how emotion, omnichannel execution, and brand discipline translate into real results. Listen for takeaways any retailer can apply.Check my interview with Dara Meath hereSee Build-a-Bear Workshop (BBW) latest results hereVisit the Bear Cave and get a CaBEARnet
What does it mean to be the brand you represent? In this episode, Rachel Skipworth, Associate Director of Auxiliary Services, Bookstore, and Licensing at UNC Charlotte, shares how 25 years across admissions, fundraising, and campus services shaped her approach to brand leadership. From rolling out a university-wide rebrand during COVID to championing internal buy-in across departments, Rachel breaks down what it takes to build belief from the inside out.
In our episode 2 of Retail Intelligence in Action Series in partnership with Ometria, our host Ron Thurston speaks with Ivan Mazour (CEO,Ometria) and Julie Channing (Fractional CMO; ex-Allbirds, Levi's, Nest) about leading with trust and authenticity in an AI-driven era. They unpack why clean, connected data is the bedrock of customer trust, how to use AI as an accelerant (not a replacement) to free teams for storytelling, where personalization truly adds value, and why transparency around AI usage will separate winners from the pack. Practical moves for retail marketing: start small, focus on retention, and partner for speed.
On today's episode, I am speaking with Carina Chaz, founder of DedCool. She shares how she built a cult-favorite fragrance brand from scratch—starting with DIY formulations. In this episode, she dives into launching during a pandemic, staying profitable without big funding, and how scrappy beginnings shaped her business approach. Carina also opens up about expanding fragrance into lifestyle products, building genuine brand loyalty, and why community is at the heart of DedCool's success. Enjoy!To connect with Carina on Instagram, click HERE.To connect with Dedcool on Instagram, click HERE. To check out Dedcool, click HERE.To connect with Siff on Instagram, click HERE.To connect with Siff on Tiktok, click HERE.To learn more about Arrae, click HERE. To check out Siff's LTK, click HERE.To check out Siff's Amazon StoreFront, click HERE. This episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct, or indirect financial interest in products, or services referred to in this episode.Save 15% off my favorite Red Light Face Mask from BON CHARGE by using code DREAMBIGGER at www.boncharge.com Caraway's cookware set is a favorite for a reason, it can save you up to $190 versus buying the items individually. Plus, if you visit Carawayhome.com/DREAMBIGGER you can take an additional 10% off your next purchase. This deal is exclusive for our listeners, so visit Carawayhome.com/DREAMBIGGER or use code DREAMBIGGER at checkout. Caraway. Non-Toxic cookware made modern. Get healthy, glowing skin for fall with clean, vegan skin and body care from OSEA. Get 10% off your first order sitewide with code DREAMBIGGER at OseaMalibu.com. You'll get free samples with every order, and free shipping on orders over $50. Head to OseaMalibu.com and use code DREAMBIGGER. Head to hellowinx.com/dreambigger for 50% off Winx at Walgreens. That's hellowinx.com/dreambigger for 50% off.Get $25 off your first purchase when you go to TheRealReal.com/dreambiggerProduced by Dear MediaSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Tim and Tyler talk to Vincent Ricchiuti of ENZO Olive Oil and P-R Farms. — This episode is presented by Corteva Agriscience. — Links ENZO Olive Oil - https://enzooliveoil.com P-R Farms - https://www.prfarms.com
In this episode, Sean and Catherine discuss their personal updates, including Sean's recent trip to Nashville for a building materials conference. They delve into insights gained from the conference, particularly around customer sentiment and spending behavior in the construction industry. The conversation highlights the importance of brand loyalty, supplier relationships, and the impact of COVID-19 on the industry. They emphasize the need for contractors to understand market trends and customer behavior to better inform their business strategies, while also reflecting on the value of networking and personal experiences in shaping professional growth.
Summary: In this episode of the Customer Service Revolution podcast, Denise Thompson and John DiJulius discuss the six key areas that separate good companies from iconic brands. They explore the importance of physical experience, atmosphere, ease of doing business, technical excellence, operational details, and hospitality in creating customer evangelists. The conversation emphasizes the need for companies to excel in all areas to build brand loyalty and provide a seamless customer experience. John shares insights on how to audit these components and the significance of training employees in hospitality to enhance customer interactions. Takeways: To create customer evangelists, excel in six key areas. Physical experience often gets overlooked until it's a problem. Atmosphere can transform emotional connections to brands. Ease of doing business is crucial for customer satisfaction. Technical excellence should be a differentiator, not just a requirement. Operational details are often invisible but impactful. Hospitality is about how you make customers feel valued. Training for hospitality is often undervalued in organizations. Regular audits of customer experience components are essential. Improving one area can lead to quick wins in customer loyalty. Chapters: 00:00Introduction to Customer Experience Excellence 01:28The Six Key Areas of Customer Experience 04:13The Importance of Physical Experience 05:55Creating Atmosphere: The Emotional Connection 10:55Functional Ease: Making Business Simple 12:06Technical Excellence: Beyond Competence 13:39Operational Details: The Invisible Backbone 17:23The Role of Hospitality in Customer Experience 21:45Training for Hospitality: Bridging the Gap 24:49The Interconnectedness of the Six Components 30:17Auditing Customer Experience 32:19Quick Wins for Customer Loyalty 34:50Creating Customer Evangelists: The Challenge This episode is sponsored by The Customer Experience Executive Academy. Learn more here Links: Fin.ai/csrevolution Learn more about how Fin, the #1 customer service agent! Ask John! Submit your questions for John, to be aired on future episode: tdg.click/ask Customer Experience Executive Academy: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/project/cx-executive-academy/ Interview Questions: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/resources/ The DiJulius Group Methdology: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/x-commandment-methodology/ Experience Revolution Membership: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/membership/ Schedule a Complimentary Call with one of our advisors: tdg.click/claudia Books: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/shop/ Blogs on Above and Beyond Culture: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/category/above-beyond-culture/ Contacts: Lindsey@thedijuliusgroup.com , Claudia@thedijuliusgroup.com Subscribe We talk about topics like this each week; be sure to subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts so you don't miss an episode.
On This Week's episode of "The Marketing Stir" Vincent welcomes Janet Dulsky, Director of Retention Marketing at Adobe, to the podcast to discuss the how, and why, to keep your customers loyal.
Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today! Shooting Training and Optics Discussion The hosts announced upcoming training events in Texas and Nevada, promoting classes in pistol and rifle fundamentals. They discussed the benefits of using optics like the EOTech for better visibility and accuracy, especially for those with aging eyes or vision issues. The conversation touched on personal experiences with shooting and the advantages of using modern sights compared to traditional iron sights. EOTech Optics Vision Issues The discussion centered around the use of EOTech optics, particularly a story about a military language specialist with macular degeneration who qualified with an M4 rifle using an EOTech HWS, demonstrating how the optic improved her vision enough to pass qualification. Brand Loyalty and Wildlife Safety The discussion focused on the decline of brand loyalty in the shooting sports industry due to corporate consolidations, with dad expressing concern about companies being bought up and then discarded. The conversation then shifted to a story about Cornell University students in New York who killed and brought a bear into their dorm for processing, which led to a discussion about proper wildlife handling and safety protocols. Crime and Law Enforcement Challenges Recent incidents of violent crime in New York and Chicago, highlighting how repeat offenders continue to commit crimes despite numerous arrests. They emphasized that progressive policies, such as no-bail laws and criticism of the police, may be contributing to increased violence, while lawful citizens are increasingly forced to defend themselves. TOPICS COVERED THIS EPISODE Huge thanks to our Partners: EOTech | Spike's Tactical TEXAS and Nevada Classes P201 Martial Application of the Pistol in Texas P301 Advanced Martial Application of the Pistol in Texas R201 Martial Application of the Rifle [0:12:35] EOTech Talk - EOTechInc.com TOPIC: EOTech and Aging Eyes [0:37:02] Warrior of the Week - James Yeager's “Virtues of a Warrior” TOPIC: Bear Hunters www.wate.com [0:46:55] SOTG Homeroom - SOTG University TOPIC: Citizen does Job of Chicago Justice System www.shootingnewsweekly.com
Wanna hear the FULL Episode? Sign up for the Grad Program today! Shooting Training and Optics Discussion The hosts announced upcoming training events in Texas and Nevada, promoting classes in pistol and rifle fundamentals. They discussed the benefits of using optics like the EOTech for better visibility and accuracy, especially for those with aging eyes or vision issues. The conversation touched on personal experiences with shooting and the advantages of using modern sights compared to traditional iron sights. EOTech Optics Vision Issues The discussion centered around the use of EOTech optics, particularly a story about a military language specialist with macular degeneration who qualified with an M4 rifle using an EOTech HWS, demonstrating how the optic improved her vision enough to pass qualification. Brand Loyalty and Wildlife Safety The discussion focused on the decline of brand loyalty in the shooting sports industry due to corporate consolidations, with dad expressing concern about companies being bought up and then discarded. The conversation then shifted to a story about Cornell University students in New York who killed and brought a bear into their dorm for processing, which led to a discussion about proper wildlife handling and safety protocols. Crime and Law Enforcement Challenges Recent incidents of violent crime in New York and Chicago, highlighting how repeat offenders continue to commit crimes despite numerous arrests. They emphasized that progressive policies, such as no-bail laws and criticism of the police, may be contributing to increased violence, while lawful citizens are increasingly forced to defend themselves.
Meenakshi Lala is the CEO of UrbanStems, an online floral gifting company that designs, sources, and delivers high-quality, curated bouquets and gifts across the U.S. She brings over two decades of operational experience from leading brands in fashion and retail such as Alice + Olivia, Juicy Couture, and Elie Tahari. Her expertise in scaling complex businesses and building operational excellence now fuels UrbanStems' growth as a leader in the industry.In this episode of DTC Pod, Blaine and Meenakshi explore the complex world of DTC flower delivery: from sourcing stems globally, managing cold chain logistics, forecasting inventory, and reducing spoilage, to ensuring the end customer receives a high-quality bouquet every time. Meenakshi candidly discusses the challenges of seasonality, tariffs, international shipping, and why a robust brand and customer-centric approach are keys to thriving in today's fast-moving e-commerce landscape.Episode brought to you by StordInteract with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:1. The complexities of the floral industry and perishability2. The evolution of e-commerce in the flower business3. Building a robust and agile international supply chain4. Cold chain logistics and fulfillment center operations5. Planning, forecasting, and reducing spoilage in inventory6. Unique challenges: tariffs, customs, and unpredictable events7. Customer experience: packaging, instructions, and communications8. Curation, personalization, and expanding gifting moments9. Driving growth through brand, loyalty, and education10. Lessons learned in leadership and staying agileTimestamps00:00 Meenakshi's career journey and joining UrbanStems04:49 Key learnings from legacy brands and focus on brand ethos07:21 Operational challenges unique to the floral industry11:00 The evolution of flowers in e-commerce and UrbanStems' role14:28 How Urban Stems' supply chain is structured for freshness16:37 International sourcing, design, and bouquet assembly process18:27 Managing supply chain risks: tariffs and customs21:45 Inventory planning, spoilage, and matching supply to demand24:45 Supply chain as a business moat and high-precision operation25:36 Customer fulfillment: hydration, packaging, and experience28:34 Packaging complexities and spec sheets per SKU30:08 Lessons from moving from COO to CEO32:19 How operational expertise shapes strategic leadership34:17 Customer feedback and new initiatives at UrbanStems38:02 Growth channels: brand loyalty, curation, and gifting moments41:58 Biggest CEO learnings and future outlook43:51 Where to find Meenakshi and UrbanStems onlineShow notes powered by CastmagicPast guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more. Additional episodes you might like:• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook• #243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands-----Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?Check out our newsletter here.Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internetOlivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplementCastmagic - AI Workspace for ContentFollow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!DTCPod InstagramDTCPod TwitterDTCPod TikTokMeenakshi Lala - CEO at UrbanStemsBlaine Bolus - Co-Founder of CastmagicRamon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic
What makes consumers truly love a brand? In this episode, Allison McClamroch, Head of Brand US at Zeno Group, shares insights from Zeno's latest research on brand love and loyalty. Discover how generational values, social media influence, and cultural relevance shape brand relationships—and what brands must do to earn and keep loyalty in today's competitive landscape. A must-listen for marketers, brand strategists, and communicators.
Michael Houlihan was the Co‑founder, President, and CEO of Barefoot Wine, an iconic brand that he and his partner Bonnie Harvey launched in a laundry room in 1986 with no money and no knowledge of the wine industry, and built one of the top wine brands in the US and in 28 countries. It was eventually acquired by E. & J. Gallo. A renowned writer, speaker, and consultant, Michael co-authored the New York Times best-selling book The Barefoot Spirit: How Hardship, Hustle, and Heart Built America's #1 Wine Brand. He currently divides his time between mentoring entrepreneurs and working on media projects, including Business Audio Theatre. In this episode… Many businesses face the challenge of building awareness without massive advertising budgets. How do you create genuine customer loyalty when traditional advertising channels are out of reach? Learn how one entrepreneur transformed an unknown product into one of America's most beloved brands using unconventional marketing strategies. Michael Houlihan, marketing innovator, built brand awareness by leveraging what he calls "worthy-cause marketing." Instead of relying on big ad budgets, he donated wine to community fundraisers, giving people a social reason to choose his product over competitors and building loyalty in the process. This targeted approach created advocates, not just customers, as people felt emotionally connected to the brand's support of causes they cared about. Michael explains how this method isn't just a badge of charity for public image, but a strategic way to leverage existing networks and communication channels within communities. He also details how to apply the same principles to ecommerce businesses by aligning with organizations whose members are likely customers, which creates a scalable and loyal fanbase. In this episode of Minds of Ecommerce, Raphael Paulin-Daigle interviews Michael Houlihan, Co-founder of Barefoot Wine and Business Audio Theater, about how unorthodox marketing can scale a brand. Michael discusses the origins of “worthy-cause marketing,” how to scale the approach from startup to enterprise, and why businesses should focus on building advocates rather than customers. He also discusses how to choose nonprofits strategically and lessons learned from scaling and selling his company.
What if everything you thought you knew about brand loyalty was just a myth? In this episode of Predictable B2B Success, host Vinay Koshy speaks with Ethan Decker, founder and president of Applied Brand Science, to shake up your assumptions about what drives actual brand growth. Ethan's fascinating journey from computational ecologist to global brand science expert is just the beginning; he dives deep into the science hiding behind successful brands, exposing why "brand stickiness" might trump loyalty in the real world. Together, they unpack the truths about buyer behavior, the importance of staying in touch with reality (not just PowerPoint reports!), and why even the biggest, most revered brands rely on a vast sea of casual customers rather than a handful of loyalists. From quirky brand mascots to the overlooked power of simple, sticky messaging, even in the B2B tech world, Ethan explains how to make your brand memorable and trusted. If you're ready to question some of marketing's most sacred cows and uncover research-backed strategies for growth, this conversation will leave you rethinking how your own business wins, retains, and reacquires customers. Don't miss these transformative insights, tune in now! Some areas we explore in this episode include: Ethan Decker's transition from science to marketing and its impact on his work.The science and evidence-based principles behind brand growth.The myth of brand loyalty versus the concept of brand stickiness.Common misconceptions businesses have about their customers.Measuring brand stickiness: recommended metrics and methods.B2B branding examples, including Volvo and Salesforce.The "Tourist Economy" model and its application to B2B.The "Banana Curve" or long-tail distribution of buyers in B2B markets.Rethinking customer retention versus acquisition and debunking loyalty myths.Integrating sales and marketing for effective revenue and brand growth.And much, much more...
Can you help me make more podcasts? Consider supporting me on Patreon as the service is 100% funded by you: https://EVne.ws/patreon You can read all the latest news on the blog here: https://EVne.ws/blog Subscribe for free and listen to the podcast on audio platforms: ➤ Apple: https://EVne.ws/apple ➤ YouTube Music: https://EVne.ws/youtubemusic ➤ Spotify: https://EVne.ws/spotify ➤ TuneIn: https://EVne.ws/tunein ➤ iHeart: https://EVne.ws/iheart EUROPEAN EV BRAND LOYALTY AND CHARGING TRENDS https://evne.ws/4muN2HT GM EXTENDS EV LEASE INCENTIVES THROUGH YEAR-END https://evne.ws/4nFU2m2 PORSCHE CAYENNE EV DEVELOPED WITH SIMULATIONS https://evne.ws/4pA9z8W 35% OF UK DRIVERS LIKELY TO CHOOSE EVS https://evne.ws/422H7SW EREVS: CONSUMER MISUNDERSTANDING AND OPPORTUNITY https://evne.ws/47TxSIA TESLA-UBER FREIGHT TO DRIVE SEMI ADOPTION https://evne.ws/4ndDW3g TESLA SETTLES TWO 2019 AUTOPILOT LAWSUITS https://evne.ws/4mkObS5 MUNICH AIRPORT OPENS 275-POINT EV CHARGING PARK https://evne.ws/42ECC12 EV REALTY BUILDS TRUCK CHARGING HUBS https://evne.ws/4mv0MCd SPAIN 2025 GRID AND EV CHARGING https://evne.ws/46hgVXn ICELAND NEW CAR REGISTRATIONS RISE, EVS LEAD https://evne.ws/46M0QsJ U.S. EV CHARGING NETWORK GROWTH SLOWS https://evne.ws/4gz8mdZ UK PLANS £500M SOUTHAMPTON EV TERMINAL https://evne.ws/4nIRgg1
Our guest in this episode is Kevin Perlmutter, author of Brand Desire and a brand strategist who has codified the complex world of human emotion into an actionable framework. Kevin provides a system for businesses to move beyond mere transactions and build genuine, lasting connections with the people they serve. In our fascinating chat, we dive into his powerful system for creating genuine brand desire, exploring why honouring how you want people to feel is the cornerstone of a thriving business, especially in the age of AI.Key points discussed include:* Great brands make lives better by honouring their customers' deepest emotional motivations.* True differentiation comes from what loyal customers already feel, not just from a gap in the market.* In the age of AI, a leader's crucial role is guarding the line that protects human connection.Listen to the podcast to find out more.Innovabiz Substack is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.Show Notes from this episode with Kevin PerlmutterIt was an absolute thrill to welcome Kevin Perlmutter, author of the brilliant book Brand Desire, back to the InnovaBuzz podcast. Our conversation was a powerful reminder of a fundamental truth that so many businesses seem to forget: brands should exist to make people's lives better. Kevin has masterfully codified the complex world of human emotion into a clear and actionable framework that guides businesses away from the shortcuts that degrade human connection and toward creating something people genuinely desire.So often, we get tangled up in our own processes, our features, and our messaging, without stopping to ask how we're actually making people feel. As Kevin points out, this disconnect is where brands stumble. They have the best intentions but end up creating frustrating, soul-crushing experiences that do the opposite of building loyalty. Our chat was a masterclass in putting the human heart back at the center of brand strategy.The Sprinkler System Epiphany: From Dread to DevotionI loved Kevin's story about a frustrating experience with a broken lawn sprinkler system that turned into a moment of brand magic. He, like all of us, was bracing for the typical customer service nightmare: a long wait on hold, a difficult conversation, and likely a dead end because the product was out of warranty. That feeling of dread is something we've all been conditioned to expect.Instead, the company called him back within five minutes, a real person quickly identified the problem, and without hesitation, they sent him a brand new, upgraded model for free. In 15 minutes, they transformed a moment of frustration into one of delight. As Kevin rightly said, they didn't just save a customer; they created a passionate ambassador who will now tell that story for years to come. That is the power of prioritizing a person's feelings over a rigid policy.Codifying the Connection: The Focus, Connect, Evolve FrameworkWhat's so powerful about Kevin's work is that he's taken this intuitive idea of human connection and built a reliable system around it. He calls it the Focus, Connect, Evolve framework, and it's a clear roadmap for any brand that wants to build a more meaningful relationship with its audience. It's a process for turning those fleeting moments of connection into a core, repeatable strategy.The framework begins with Focus, where you do the deep work of gaining customer insight. Then you move to Connect, where you craft the emotional benefit and an invitation into your brand. Finally, you Evolve by bringing that promise to life in every single experience a customer has with you, ensuring the feeling you want to create is consistently delivered.Uncovering Your Beacon: The 'Shared Emotional Motivation'Diving deeper into that "Focus" phase, Kevin shared a concept that really resonated with me: the "shared emotional motivation." This isn't about finding some patch of "white space" in a competitive analysis. It's about doing the work to understand the emotional truth of why your most loyal customers love you. It's about finding the intersection where what your brand authentically provides meets what your customers are truly craving.When you find that intersection, it becomes your brand's guiding "beacon." It's a clear, unwavering light that informs every decision you make, from your marketing copy to your product development to your customer service policies. It ensures that you are always oriented around the emotional core of your promise to your customers.How 'Invincible' Feels: A B2B Masterclass in EmotionTo show this in action, Kevin told the story of a B2B software company that helps supply chain managers. Their customers went from using gut instinct and spreadsheets, constantly afraid of "getting yelled at," to being the "hero" in their organization because they always had the right numbers. The shared emotional motivation wasn't about efficiency; it was about the craving to feel competent and secure.From this insight, the powerful brand promise, "Be Supply Chain Invincible," was born. It was a bold, emotional statement that initially made the client a bit nervous, but it was completely authentic because it was rooted in how their service already made their best customers feel. It's a perfect example of how emotion is just as critical in B2B as it is in B2C.The AI Tightrope: Guarding the Humanity LineOf course, we had to talk about AI. Kevin has a wonderfully clear-eyed perspective on it. While AI can be a fantastic tool for things like summarizing customer reviews or acting as an "enhanced thesaurus," there's a significant danger when it's used to replace genuine human interaction without careful thought.He was adamant that the brand leader's role today is to be the guardian of the human experience. You must know where the line is between using AI to be humanity-enhancing versus humanity-degrading. And his advice is simple: you must never, ever cross that line just for the sake of cost-cutting or efficiency. That is a non-negotiable responsibility.Your Limbic Sparks Mindset: Three Questions to Ask TodayTo bring it all home, Kevin shared a simple, actionable mindset that anyone can adopt, which he calls the Limbic Sparks Mindset. It boils down to asking three essential questions every day, whether you're designing a new product or just writing an email.First, what are people's frustrations, unmet needs, and motivations? Second, how do people want to feel when they interact with you? And finally, what should your brand do and say to make people's lives better? By asking these questions, you begin to build a brand that people don't just buy from, but truly desire to have in their lives.In Summary: My conversation with Kevin Perlmutter was a profound call to action for all business leaders. His message is that the brands that thrive will be the ones who understand and address the emotional motivations of their customers. It's not just about what you do; it's about how you make people feel.The Buzz - Our Innovation RoundHere are Kevin's answers to the questions of our innovation round. Listen to the conversation to get the full scoop.* Most innovative use of AI to enhance human relationships – AI algorithms can be used to create pairings and matchings that connect like-minded people, assuming they foster genuine connection rather than isolation.* Best thing to integrate AI and human connection – Use AI as an enhanced thesaurus to explore alternative phrasing and interpretations, which helps deepen the nuance of your own human communication.* Differentiate by leveraging AI – Discover what makes you unique by asking others for input on how you make them feel, then lean into that authentic emotional differentiator.ActionEmbrace a Limbic Sparks Mindset. Think about your customer's frustrations, needs, and desires. Ask yourself how they want to feel, then design what you say and do to truly make their lives better.Reach OutYou can reach out and thank Kevin on LinkedIn and find all the details about his book and framework at branddesirebook.com.Links:* Website – Limbic Brand Evolution* Twitter – @KevinPerlmutter* LinkedInBooks:* Brand Desire: Spark Customer Interest Using Emotional Insights, Kevin PerlmutterCool Things About Kevin* He Played the Long Game with His Podcast. Years before his book deal, Kevin strategically designed his podcast as a research tool. He intentionally asked every one of his 37 guests the same core questions, patiently building a unique library of expert insights that would eventually become a foundational part of his book. That level of foresight and disciplined creativity is unconventional and impressive.* He Deconstructed His Own "Magic" for Others. Kevin admits that his successful approach was, for a long time, "somewhat intuitive" and "second nature" to him. The cool part isn't the intuition itself, but his decision to undertake the difficult work of codifying it. He didn't just want to be the magician; he wanted to write down the spells so that, as he said, "anybody can learn how to do it". That's a profoundly generous impulse.* He's a Principled Guardian of Humanity in Tech. In a world quick to adopt any new technology, Kevin has drawn a clear "do not cross line". He's not anti-AI; he's a staunch, principled advocate for ensuring technology serves, rather than "degrades," the human experience. This role as a thoughtful "guardian" against dehumanizing shortcuts is a powerful and very human stance to take.Ready to move beyond just creating content and start creating real connection?In the Age of AI, the future belongs to those who can amplify human wisdom. Flywheel Nation is MORE than a community; it's a movement for creators and visionaries dedicated to shaping a more human future.Join us as we co-create that future for ethical AI. Here you will tap into the collective wisdom of leaders who prioritize connection over automation, find powerful collaborations that elevate your impact, and help illuminate the path forward.This is your invitation to not only grow your business but to become a lighthouse for others.Join the movement. Visit innovabiz.co/flywheel to be a part of the conversation.VideoThanks for reading Innovabiz Substack! This post is public so feel free to share it. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit innovabiz.substack.com/subscribe
For TV broadcasters, social marketing has to do more than just educate or entertain – it has to convince audiences to get *off* their phones and sit down to watch. Sharing the solution to that challenge is Erina Jones, director of social media and social AVOD at UKTV, part of the award-winning BBC Studios. Erina delves into why consolidating UKTV's owned channels made for a stronger brand, the secret to a perfect TV show cutdown for social, and how data helps the team convert passionate communities into loyal brand fans. Got a question or a suggestion for the SocialMinds podcast? Get in touch at socialminds@socialchain.com.
Farmers are gearing up for the harvest, and that means it’s go-time for equipment prep. For some, that includes picking up used machinery at auction. Matt and Jim Gavin of Gavin Bros Auctions in Reedsburg tell Ben Jarboe that demand is strong and prices have held steady. More farmers are focusing less on brand loyalty and more on value. Today's Compeer Financial Ag Weather Update calls for a frost advisory before a warm-up, says Stu Muck. The apple harvest is rolling along at Sunrise Orchards in Gays Mills. Owner Brent Seiser tells Kiley Allan that while frost can be a challenge in both spring and fall, especially for late-harvested apples, this season is shaping up nicely. Have what it takes to be a Master Meat Crafter? Applications are open. Also, UW-River Falls students and staff spent some time in Thailand promoting Wisconsin dairy. You can also be a part of the love for Wisconsin dairy through the Art of Cheese Festival! This features a variety of cheese-themed events, including hands-on workshops, creamery tours, an artisan cheese fair, and cooking demonstrations, alongside culinary excursions and a large-scale cheese ball, Jessica Pralle-Trimner tells Pam Jahnke.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When Experience Gets Rebranded Off the Menu What happens when a brand forgets that experience—not logos—creates loyalty? In this episode of A Shark's Perspective, Shark is joined by licensed therapist and social media influencer Trey Tucker to explore Cracker Barrel's controversial rebrand. Together they unpack the psychology of nostalgia, why customers revolt when traditions vanish, and how brands risk everything when they lean away from what makes them unique. Key Takeaways Protect the Experience – Great experiences create differentiation stronger than any logo. Marketing Can't Fix Everything – Operations, culture, and service matter more than cosmetic changes. Invest in What Lasts – $700 million spent on logos won't fix cold biscuits; true growth comes from food, service, and culture. If you want to understand the intersection of branding, psychology, and customer loyalty—this is an episode you don't want to miss.
Investor Fuel Real Estate Investing Mastermind - Audio Version
In this episode of the Investor Fuel Podcast, host Leo Wehdeking speaks with David Cain, founder of Heroes Home Advantage, a program that supports military and community heroes by providing financial benefits when buying or selling real estate. David discusses the challenges of brand loyalty in the real estate market, the importance of educating potential clients about the benefits of his program, and the entrepreneurial journey of growing a business focused on giving back. The conversation emphasizes the significance of relationships and networking in achieving success and scaling the program's impact. Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind: Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply Investor Machine Marketing Partnership: Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true ‘white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com Coaching with Mike Hambright: Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a “mini-mastermind” with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming “Retreat”, either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas “Big H Ranch”? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform! Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/ New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club —--------------------
In this dynamic episode of The Voice of Retail, host Michael LeBlanc welcomes Fawad Baig, Retail Industry Lead, Accenture Canada, to unpack Accenture's latest global consumer report: Me, My Brand, and AI. With insights drawn from over 18,000 respondents worldwide, including Canadians, this research sheds light on how uncertainty and generative AI are reshaping consumer trust, loyalty, and shopping behavior.Fawad explains that more than 57% of Canadian consumers report unusually high levels of uncertainty in their daily lives—double the levels recorded in late 2024. In response, many are turning to generative AI tools not only for shopping recommendations but also for personal advice, creating a powerful new form of trust and reliance. In fact, 46% of Canadians have already made purchases influenced by AI, and 72% would welcome an AI-powered personal shopper.The conversation dives deep into what this means for retailers. While brand loyalty in Canada remains strong, a striking 35% of consumers say they would switch brands based on AI-driven recommendations—a level of volatility that opens both risks and opportunities. For retailers willing to adapt, the shift from personalization to proactive engagement offers a competitive edge.Michael and Fawad also discuss the rise of AI agents, tools that autonomously seek out products on behalf of consumers, potentially bypassing loyalty programs and traditional marketing tactics. Fawad emphasizes that retailers need to prepare for this new reality by rethinking product data, metadata strategies, and how they present contextual value across digital platforms.Beyond consumer-facing strategies, the discussion touches on the vital importance of ethical AI, data governance, and building trust through transparency. Fawad stresses that once trust is lost, it is nearly impossible to regain—a warning for brands rushing headlong into AI adoption without the proper safeguards.The episode closes with actionable advice for retailers:Start investing in AI to deliver curated, personalized, and measurable consumer experiences.Start preparing for the reality of AI agents shaping consumer choice.Stop underestimating the power of existing loyalty programs, which remain a crucial bridge to long-term engagement. Read the reporthttps://www.accenture.com/content/dam/accenture/final/accenture-com/document-3/Accenture-Me-My-Brand-and-AI.pdf#zoom=40 The Voice of Retail podcast is presented by Hale, a performance marketing partner trusted by brands like ASICS, Saje, and Orangetheory to scale with focus and impact. Michael LeBlanc is the president and founder of M.E. LeBlanc & Company Inc, a senior retail advisor, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.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.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fifth year in a row, the National Retail Federation has designated Michael as on their Top Retail Voices for 2025, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.
How do you stand out in a crowded market where products all look the same? By building a brand that's authentic, consistent, and audience-first.In episode 95 of Brand Story, we speak with Phyllis Rothschild, CMO of Pete & Gerry's Organics, to explore how she helped turn a commodity into a mission-driven brand that people trust and stay loyal to. From redefining what loyalty really means to balancing creativity with consistency, this conversation highlights the marketing principles that make any brand stronger.This is Brand Story, a podcast celebrating the stories of real people who are making an impact on brands, business, and the world around them. Episodes feature guests from a variety of backgrounds who bring their own unique perspectives to the conversation.Brand Story is created and produced by Gravity Group, a full-service brand and marketing agency, and is hosted by Gravity Group President, Steve Gilman.Links and Information From the Episode Here: gravitygroup.com/podcast/building-brand-loyaltyContinue the conversation on social:For more of Brand Story, check out our LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/gravitygroupmarketing), where we'll post previews and highlights of shows, behind-the-scenes sneak peeks, plus other marketing news you can use.We're also on: Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/gravitygroupFacebook — https://www.facebook.com/gravitygroupmarketing(00:00) From Consulting to CMO(04:42) The Heart of Brand Loyalty(07:23) Mission Meets Marketing(11:44) Packaging & Brand Identity(13:19) Two Brands, One Family(16:26) Consumer Experience & Health Consciousness(18:52) Cutting Through Confusion(21:52) Educating at Shelf(24:25) Opportunities & Threats in Premium Eggs(29:00) Building Loyalty Beyond Discounts(30:34) Navigating Risk & Adventure in Marketing(34:55) Finding Joy in the Journey
Esterholt shopping trip as the gang gears up for mining in the mountains. Potions, gambling, and... tattoos? // FROSTBOURNE CAST: • Jason Massey – Game Master / Narrator • Jamieson Alcorn – “Logrhyn Cragborn” • Susan Spenader – “Nythera Rhyelith” • Jason ‘Jasper' Permenter – “Ruby Pettigrew” • Ian Duncan – “Chimera” // FIND US: • Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/dandr • Explore the world of Theria: https://dandrpodcast.com • Join our Discord community: https://discord.gg/a9MygcE2HR • Grab official D&R merch: https://dandrpodcast.dashery.com // OUR PARTNERS: • Play the Level Up A5E ruleset: https://www.levelup5e.com (use code DANDR for a 5% discount) • Build your own world with GM Assistant: https://gmassistant.app/?via=dandr (Discount Code = DANDR) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
In this episode of The Leadership Sandbox, Tammy dives into the recent Cracker Barrel rebranding debacle. This corporate misstep, a $700 million gamble aimed at attracting a younger demographic, led to a 14% stock drop and a massive customer backlash. Tammy dissects the four major lies leaders told themselves that led to this catastrophic failure. You'll discover why a brand's most valuable asset lives in the memory and emotion of its customers—and what happens when you strip that away. This isn't just a story about a failed rebrand; it's a critical leadership lesson on the dangers of ignoring your core identity, failing to connect with your audience, and letting financial recklessness get disguised as innovation. Key Takeaways for Leaders Your Brand is an Emotion: A brand's value is rooted in nostalgia and emotional connection. Without it, your brand becomes soulless. The Cost of Ignoring Your Customer: Chasing a new market while alienating your core customer base is a recipe for disaster. Arrogance vs. Integrity: Long-term strategy without short-term integrity is just arrogance. Ignoring customer feedback to push a "modern" agenda is a critical failure of leadership. Financial Recklessness: Understand the difference between a sound investment in your brand and a financially reckless gamble disguised as modernization. In This Episode, You'll Learn: Why Cracker Barrel's $700 million rebrand led to a massive stock drop and customer backlash. The four communication lies leaders believed that led to this major misstep. How to prioritize brand integrity and emotional connection in your business strategy. Why ignoring customer sentiment is the most dangerous form of leadership. How to avoid being "dead right" by leading with both strategy and humility. Join us in the sandbox to explore the lies leaders tell themselves and how to avoid making a fatal mistake.
In this inspiring episode of High Octane Leadership, Donald Thompson sits down with professional soccer player Brianna Pinto to explore how sports can break down barriers and create lasting social impact. Learn how the Pinto Futball Foundation is dismantling structural and financial obstacles in soccer while creating opportunities for underserved communities. Whether you're an aspiring change-maker or established leader, discover powerful insights about using privilege for purpose, building inclusive spaces, and the intersection of athletic excellence with community leadership. Brianna shares her journey from collegiate athlete to professional player and nonprofit founder, offering practical wisdom on balancing multiple passions while driving meaningful change.What You'll Learn:Leveraging sports to advance education, career opportunities, and personal development.Frameworks for creating accessible, inclusive programs that serve underserved communities and foster representation in leadership.Building sustainable youth programs, third spaces, and family-led initiatives that strengthen long-term community value.Driving systemic change in governance and athlete protection while balancing multiple career pursuits with excellence.About the Guest(s)Brianna Pinto is a professional soccer player with NC Courage and co-founder of the Pinto Futball Foundation, established in 2021. A former UNC-Chapel Hill athlete, she serves as the North Carolina Courage representative for the NWSL Players Association and is a member of the US Soccer Athletes Council. Her leadership extends beyond the field through her work with organizations like the Black Women's Player Collective and her role as the US youth representative for the FIFA United Bid Committee in 2018, where she helped secure hosting rights for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In this episode, Brianna shares her mission to dismantle structural and financial barriers in soccer, particularly for black and brown youth, while discussing her vision for creating accessible spaces for future generations of athletes. Her combination of professional athleticism, community leadership, and advocacy for equity in sports makes her insights valuable for both aspiring athletes and organizational leaders committed to creating positive social impact.Resources:Brianna Pinto LinkedInPinto Futball Foundation WebsiteNC Courage WebsiteNWSL Players Association WebsiteUS Soccer Athletes Council WebsiteBlack Women's Player Collective WebsiteWalkWest LinkedInWalkWest WebsiteCheck out our three most downloaded episodes:Brand Loyalty and Hustle: Lessons Learned Working in the NBA, NFL, and MLB, with Jarrett NoblesBuild Your Brand Before You Walk in the RoomLeadership Rewired: Bridging the Gap with Gen Z High Octane Leadership is hosted by The Diversity Movement CEO and executive coach Donald Thompson and is a production of Earfluence.Order UNDERESTIMATED: A CEO'S UNLIKELY PATH TO SUCCESS, by Donald Thompson.
Dealers, take note: Brand loyalty is no longer guaranteed. The political landscape is reshaping what customers buy - and WHO they buy from.Global Dealer Solutions offers a network of high-performance providers while remaining product agnostic. Knowing which tools to deploy makes a big difference. Having a trusted adviser; priceless. Schedule your complimentary consultation today. https://calendly.com/don-278. BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HERE www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts: www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host, Russell B. Hill and Charity Dunning, Co-Host and Chief Marketing Officer of FixedOPS Marketing, as we discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in WTF?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations
Ally and I sit down with Ilana Gelfand, Senior Manager, Global Social Strategy at Disney Consumer Products. With 12+ years of experience in marketing and social media, Ilana has led creative content and brand strategy for some of the world's most popular brands, including Disney and Loungefly. We discuss Ilana's illustrious career in selling a lifestyle over a product and how the organic positioning of that lifestyle is the unlock to greater audience connection. We walk through how to drive authenticity within your brand's consumers through nostalgia, self-expression and niche fandoms.Key Takeaways:// To sell a lifestyle instead of a product - identify your target audience, learn how they want to be seen and align your messaging to how they want to be spoken to.// Build nostalgia for your brand by referencing the past and finding fresh ways to incorporate it in the present.// When choosing influencers for a campaign, consider lookalike influencers that may have various crossover interests that align with the campaign look and feel.// Brands are currently underutilizing Pinterest - Gen Z is using Pinterest as a creative outlet and opportunity to build an individual user world.Connect with Ilana: LinkedIn | Instagram____Say hi! DM me on Instagram and let us know what content you want to hear on the show - I can't wait to hear from you! Please also consider rating the show and leaving a review, as that helps us tremendously as we move forward in this Marketing Happy Hour journey and create more content for all of you. Join our FREE Open Jobs group on LinkedIn: Join nowGet the latest from MHH, straight to your inbox: Join our email list!Follow MHH on Social: Instagram | LinkedIn | TikTok | Facebook
Retail is evolving fast, and the brands that win are the ones who know how to adapt. In this episode of Retail Collective, we sit down with Jamie, former Nike executive, CEO of Jaybird, and now founder of SMMT, to unpack what it takes to lead through change. You'll hear: How Nike's rotational culture develops leaders who think across design, product, finance, and marketing What running Manchester United's retail taught Jamie about high-volume consumer experience and operational excellence How to reposition an upstart brand in a crowded category and engineer a turnaround (Jaybird) The new rules of DTC, brand building, and why niche brands with loyal communities often outperform mass-market plays SMMT's approach to innovation—combining thoughtful design, consumer utility, and long-term brand equity This is a conversation about leadership, execution, and vision—practical insights any established brand can use to sharpen its retail strategy.
Kyle M.K. is a best-selling author, executive strategy advisor, and keynote speaker helping organizations become more emotionally intelligent and people-centered. Based in Austin, Texas, Kyle currently serves as Talent Strategy Advisor at Indeed, where he guides employers through the complexities of the future of work.He is the author of The Economics of Emotion: How to Build a Business Everyone Will Love, a book that explores how emotional intelligence can become a core business advantage. His career spans more than a decade of work across startups and enterprises, including Apple and multiple entrepreneurial ventures such as The Heart Company and Human Planet.Kyle's strategic approach focuses on brand loyalty, leadership development, and transforming customer and employee experiences. His work has been recognized by organizations like the Disney Institute, which invited him to speak about customer experience, leadership, and emotional engagement.Known for blending heart and strategy, Kyle empowers leaders to design businesses that thrive by putting people at the centre.Ross and Kyle talk about cult brands, Apple, hiring, showing interest, Indeed, business around human emotion, work wellbeing, performance, advice for employers, prediction to preparation, optimising data, mindset shifts, skills we've always had, helping people, unlocking human potential, adapting and changing jobs. The pair also discuss company growth, identifying change, empowering environments, reutilising talent, loving work, wellbeing, how people feel, business performance, AQ Index, skills first hiring, emotional intelligence, humancentric, matching jobseekers with employers, long term relationships, matching people, mentors, storytelling, enriching lives, being fulfilled, emotional nutrition and embracing negative emotions. Timecodes:00:19 Intro to Kyle01:33 Surprises from Kyles book02:41 Events leading to Kyles success05:34 The role of a Talent Strategy Advisor09:28 Future Kyle's perfect year12:14 Work moving towards humanity17:09 De-humanising, robotics and AI in a humane world21:15 Helping businesses transition26:52 Internal conflict and overcoming barriers with budgets32:43 Advice for scaling up projects, hiring and talent strategy 36:52 Current exciting initiatives42:19 The last time Kyle did something for the first time 46:47 Quantifying feelings Connect with Kyle:LinkedInBookConnect with Ross:WebsiteLinkedInMoonshot Innovation
The Today in Manufacturing Podcast is brought to you by the editors of Manufacturing.net and Industrial Equipment News (IEN).This week's episode is brought to you by Origami Risk. Download "4 Strategic Risk Transformations," an eBook that will give you four transformative strategies to effectively manage risk for your organization.Every week, we cover the five biggest stories in manufacturing, and the implications they have on the industry moving forward. This week:- Trade War Devastates African Clothing Manufacturer- Tesla's Brand Loyalty Has Fallen Dramatically- Glass Plant Closure Impacts 90 Oregon Workers- Without New Customers, Intel 'Likely' to Stop $28B Ohio Project- Hemp Battery Factory Plans Go Up in Smoke in WisconsinIn Case You Missed It- Texas, DARPA to Establish Testbed to Use Autonomy to Fight Wildfires- From Family-Owned to Employee-Owned: A Machinery Manufacturer's 100-Year Journey- FDA Approves Tiny Implant to Treat Rheumatoid ArthritisPlease make sure to like, subscribe and share the podcast. You could also help us out a lot by giving the podcast a positive review. Finally, to email the podcast, you can reach any of us at David, Jeff or Anna [at] ien.com, with “Email the Podcast” in the subject line.
- Volvo OTA Causes Brake Defect - Tesla Sales Down in China... Again - Tesla Brand Loyalty Below Chevy - Elon Musk Gets $27 Billion Pay Package - BMW iX3 Has Impressive Specs - Foxconn Sells Lordstown Plant - CATL Takes Battery Swaps to Rental Cars - U.S. SAAR Hits 16.9 Million in July - U.S. Gasoline Use Declining - Autoline Poll Results
- Volvo OTA Causes Brake Defect - Tesla Sales Down in China... Again - Tesla Brand Loyalty Below Chevy - Elon Musk Gets $27 Billion Pay Package - BMW iX3 Has Impressive Specs - Foxconn Sells Lordstown Plant - CATL Takes Battery Swaps to Rental Cars - U.S. SAAR Hits 16.9 Million in July - U.S. Gasoline Use Declining - Autoline Poll Results
While most brands are chasing tomorrow's sales, Chris Hoyle, Chief Marketing Officer of Simple Modern, focuses on driving brand connections and loyalty through generosity.If you don't know this brand, you should:>Their purpose in the crowded drink-ware and consumer goods space is clear: “We exist to give generously.” >On their website it even says “generous prices” - meaning affordability>Chris even shares a story about “generous laughter” – LOVE IT, never heard those two words together beforeIn this episode, we cover the difference between growing the brand and growing the business.
Send us a text10 most common – and costly – marketing mistakes companies are still making in 2025. From confusing tactics with strategy, to neglecting customer experience and failing to adapt fast enough, this episode breaks down real-world examples, including brands like Pepsi, Nokia, Blockbuster, and more. Perfect for marketers, founders, or anyone who's ever asked: "Why isn't our marketing working?" أكثر الأخطاء التسويقية شيوعًا والتي لا تزال تُرتكب حتى عام ٢٠٢٥. من الخلط بين التكتيك والاستراتيجية، إلى تجاهل تجربة العميل وعدم مواكبة التغيير، نستعرض أمثلة واقعية من علامات تجارية كبرى مثل Pepsi وNokia وBlockbuster وغيرها. حلقة مخصصة لكل من يعمل في التسويق، أو أسّس مشروعًا، أو سأل نفسه يومًا: "ليش التسويق تبعنا ما عم يشتغل؟ Support the showSupport the Podcast on:https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/okuwatly?locale.x=en_UShttps://www.buymeacoffee.com/MaBa3refSubscribe to Maba3ref Newsletter:https://maba3refbranching.beehiiv.com/Connect with Maba3ref Podcast:https://www.instagram.com/maba3refbyomarConnect on TIKTOK:https://www.tiktok.com/@okuwatly
Leasing isn't just for cars anymore—it's becoming a business model for everything from HVAC systems to washers, dryers, refrigerators, and water heaters. While leasing can ease upfront costs, it often comes with long-term financial drawbacks. We explore when it makes financial sense to lease instead of buy, the impact on your cash flow, and why even 0% financing can be a smart move if managed wisely.Original Air Date: July 19, 2025Read the Article: https://www.henssler.com/why-leasing-might-be-the-right-move-even-if-it-costs-more
When it comes to money decisions, the numbers don't always win. This week, we're diving into how behavioral finance influences the way we approach big purchases—like buying versus leasing a car or choosing a home that stretches the budget. While one option might make the most sense on paper, your lifestyle, habits, and even emotions may lead you in another direction.If you've been with your car insurance company for 25 years, but switching providers offers better coverage, lower deductibles, and hundreds in savings—what do you do? For many, the emotional weight of loyalty outweighs the financial upside of making a change.Leasing isn't just for cars anymore—it's becoming a business model for everything from HVAC systems to washers, dryers, refrigerators, and water heaters. While leasing can ease upfront costs, it often comes with long-term financial drawbacks. We break down the numbers, compare short- vs. long-term costs, and discuss why lifestyle convenience often trumps financial optimization.Is tapping into your home equity ever a smart investment move? If your potential returns exceed your mortgage rate, maybe—but it's not just a math equation. We examine the behavioral and practical factors: cash flow, interest rates, risk tolerance, and the peace of mind that comes from being debt-free. Plus, what if you already have extra cash—should you invest it or knock down the mortgage?Join hosts Nick Antonucci, CVA, CEPA, Director of Research, and Managing Associates K.C. Smith, CFP®, CEPA, and D.J. Barker, CWS®, and Kelly-Lynne Scalice, a seasoned communicator and host, on Henssler Money Talks as they explore key financial strategies to help investors navigate market uncertainty.Henssler Money Talks — July 19, 2025 | Season 39, Episode 29Timestamps and Chapters7:28: Tame Market, Muted Returns14:24: Loyalty vs. Logic: When Staying Costs More 25:14: The New Lease on Spending: Buy vs. Lease in Everyday Life36:18: The Psychology of a Big Purchase49:51: Home Equity: Invest It or Pay Down Debt?Follow Henssler: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HensslerFinancial/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/HensslerFinancial LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/henssler-financial/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hensslerfinancial/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hensslerfinancial?lang=en X: https://www.x.com/hensslergroup “Henssler Money Talks” is brought to you by Henssler Financial.
We explore different facets of brand loyalty, touching on everyday essentials like electronics, clothing, and even spices.
TakeawaysAmazon Prime Day saw a significant increase in consumer spending compared to previous years.Retail media plays a crucial role in helping brands get noticed on Amazon's marketplace.Consumers are increasingly focused on basic needs rather than luxury items during shopping events.Retailers are managing prices strategically to absorb costs and maintain consumer interest.Membership programs like Amazon Prime and Walmart Plus are becoming essential for retailers.Customer service quality is a key differentiator for retailers in a competitive market.The trend of comparison shopping is growing among consumers, especially between Amazon and Walmart.Retailers are leveraging technology and AI to improve efficiency and customer experience.The impact of tariffs on consumer prices is a concern for retailers and consumers alike.The future of retail may see tiered membership programs to cater to different consumer segments. Chapters00:00 The Dynamics of Prime Day Discounts07:27 Retail Media and Brand Visibility09:37 Innovations in Delivery: E-bikes and Instant Needs11:59 Consumer Behavior: Shifts in Purchasing Trends14:35 Retail Strategies: Managing Prices and Inventory17:28 The Competitive Landscape: Walmart vs. Amazon20:05 Customer Service: The Key to Retention23:06 The Future of Grocery and E-commerce25:49 Membership Models: The Next Frontier31:08 Final Thoughts and Predictions
For your communication to be credible, you can't just say it — you have to do it.Want people to believe what you say? According to Richard Edelman, the words you choose only get you halfway there. To build real trust, he says, you have to practice what you preach.“Action builds trust,” says Edelman. “If you don't do something, you can't talk about it.” As the president and CEO of Edelman, a leading global communications marketing firm, Edelman is widely recognized for his thought leadership in marketing and PR, especially on issues related to corporate trust, brand reputation, and social responsibility. His annual Edelman Trust Barometer reveals a sobering reality: "Two-thirds of people believe leaders lie to them now, business leaders, government leaders, even journalists." For people and organizations that want to rebuild trust, whether in a one-on-one relationship or with a customer base of millions, Edelman's advice is simple: "Decide, do, communicate."In this episode of Think Fast, Talk Smart, Edelman and host Matt Abrahams explore strategies for winning trust when traditional authority no longer guarantees it. In an age of skepticism, Edelman's insights show that sustainable trust comes not from perfect messaging, but from consistently aligning your actions with your words.Episode Reference Links:Richard Edelman158. Hope for Cynics: Building Trusting Relationships through Communication Connect:Premium Signup >>>> Think Fast Talk Smart PremiumEmail Questions & Feedback >>> hello@fastersmarter.ioEpisode Transcripts >>> Think Fast Talk Smart WebsiteNewsletter Signup + English Language Learning >>> FasterSmarter.ioThink Fast Talk Smart >>> LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTubeMatt Abrahams >>> LinkedInChapters:(00:00) - Introduction (03:06) - The Evolution of Trust (04:17) - Rebuilding Trust After a Breach (05:10) - Leaders as Influencers (06:22) - New Media Ecosystems (08:06) - The Role of AI in Communication (09:26) - Key Qualities for Future Leaders (10:26) - The Final Three Questions (17:57) - Conclusion ********This Episode is brought to you by Strawberry.me. Get $50 off coaching today at Strawberry.me/smartBecome a Faster Smarter Supporter by joining TFTS Premium.
Brent Vartan is Managing Partner and Co-Founder at Bullish, a unique hybrid combining a branding agency and a consumer-focused venture fund. With decades of experience in brand strategy, Brent and his team have been early investors and builders behind some of the most iconic DTC and consumer brands of the past decade, including Peloton, Warby Parker, Casper, Harry's, Hu, Bubble, and more.In this episode of DTC Pod, Brent shares his perspective on what it takes to build generational consumer brands from the earliest stages. He discusses Bullish's hands-on investment approach, the importance of brand strategy as a growth mechanism, and what differentiates brands that become household names. Brent also breaks down real playbooks from companies like Sunday Lawn and Nom Nom, providing founders concrete advice on what it takes to build brands worth talking about—and worth buying.Interact with other DTC experts and access our monthly fireside chats with industry leaders on DTC Pod Slack.On this episode of DTC Pod, we cover:1. Bullish's hybrid brand agency and VC model2. What it means to invest as “first money” and why it matters3. The difference between building a business and building a brand4. Why customer lifetime value (CLV) trumps CAC and COGS5. Product-market fit: moving from awareness to lifetime value6. How Bullish supports brands like Harry's and Nom Nom in their earliest days7. Tactical advice for founders on capital raising and allocation8. Building brands for acquisition vs. IPO9. The playbook for becoming an acquisition target (what buyers actually want)10. The underrated power of innovation and product launches11. The role of cultural relevance in DTC brand building12. Real-world examples from Sunday Lawn, Peloton, Bubble Beauty, and more13. How great DTC brands focus on AOV, CLV, and brand loyalty14. Pitfalls to avoid around capital structure and loss of momentumTimestamps00:00 Introducing Brent Vartan and Bullish03:49 Bullish's track record and notable investments05:22 What makes Bullish different10:10 Investing as “first money,” how Bullish evaluates concepts13:19 Patterns Bullish looks for in breakout DTC brands16:09 Deep dive: Sunday Lawn's growth and strategy18:36 Positioning Harry's and building a hundred-year business21:04 Timelines, capital, and operational realities for breakout brands23:37 Building for acquisition vs. IPO: how strategies diverge28:57 What buyers are really seeking in DTC acquisitions31:47 Nom Nom's Mars acquisition and the power of niche audiences33:59 The importance of cultural relevance and taking creative “shots”35:32 Bubble Beauty: case study in innovation and customer engagement38:27 Finding the right capital structure and maintaining founder equity41:06 The risks of stalling momentum and overplanning43:33 Where to allocate raised capital: innovation vs. marketing46:20 Where to find Bullish, Brent's socials, and their newsletterShow notes powered by CastmagicPast guests & brands on DTC Pod include Gilt, PopSugar, Glossier, MadeIN, Prose, Bala, P.volve, Ritual, Bite, Oura, Levels, General Mills, Mid Day Squares, Prose, Arrae, Olipop, Ghia, Rosaluna, Form, Uncle Studios & many more. Additional episodes you might like:• #175 Ariel Vaisbort - How OLIPOP Runs Influencer, Community, & Affiliate Growth• #184 Jake Karls, Midday Squares - Turning Your Brand Into The Influencer With Content• #205 Kasey Stewart: Suckerz- - Powering Your Launch With 300 Million Organic Views• #219 JT Barnett: The TikTok Masterclass For Brands• #223 Lauren Kleinman: The PR & Affiliate Marketing Playbook• #243 Kian Golzari - Source & Develop Products Like The World's Best Brands-----Have any questions about the show or topics you'd like us to explore further?Shoot us a DM; we'd love to hear from you.Want the weekly TL;DR of tips delivered to your mailbox?Check out our newsletter here.Projects the DTC Pod team is working on:DTCetc - all our favorite brands on the internetOlivea - the extra virgin olive oil & hydroxytyrosol supplementCastmagic - AI Workspace for ContentFollow us for content, clips, giveaways, & updates!DTCPod InstagramDTCPod TwitterDTCPod TikTokBrent Vartan - Managing Partner & Co-Founder of BullishBlaine Bolus - Co-Founder of CastmagicRamon Berrios - Co-Founder of Castmagic
Robs Man Cave - Brand LoyaltySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Marketing Expedition Podcast with Rhea Allen, Peppershock Media
Ondar Tarlow is a seasoned marketing executive with 20+ years of experience in brand strategy, digital transformation, and lifestyle marketing. Now a consultant for motorsports, finance, and lifestyle brands, he partners with organizations like Fast Lane Drive to fuse passion and performance. His creative work, including sponsorships with the LA Chargers, Anaheim Ducks, and BeachLife Festival, reflects his talent for building memorable, engaging brand stories—with a dash of humor to make them shine.00:00 - 00:15 "Anyone can have a logo on a screen. Anyone can have a logo that it's up on the board if they can afford it. But the point is, is that's one element that should be in an arsenal of what your plan is to leverage the fan base, right? Cause those fans are very loyal.” — Ondar Tarlow00:16 - 00:34 Welcome to Peppershock Media's Marketing Expedition Podcast00:35 - 01:57 Ondar's Background01:58 - 10:35 Marketing Essentials Moment: Keeping it R.E.A.L.10:36 - 12:15 Welcome to the show, Ondar!12:16 - 16:37 The Evolution of Digital Marketing16:38 - 22:18 Success Story: Real Estate Video Marketing22:19 - 27:21 Generational Influence on Buying Decisions27:22 - 34:27 The Importance of Multi-Channel Engagement34:28 - 35:04 Poderific, baby! Whether you're looking for a podcast studio to rent or need help with the entire production and distribution of your podcast, we gotcha covered. 35:05 - 38:22 Fast Lane Drive38:23 - 41:20 Creating Engaging Content for Car Enthusiasts41:21 - 45:22 Integrating Your Brand45:23 - 49:26 Case Study: Partnership with the Los Angeles Chargers49:27 - 50:31 Importance of Long-Term Sponsorships50:32 - 51:46 Building a Community of Marketers51:47 - 52:20 Reach out to Ondar - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ondar/52:21 – 55:16 Humor in Marketing55:17 - 55:55 Thank you so much, Ondar! Share this podcast, give us a review, and enjoy your marketing journey!55:56 - 56:42 Join the Marketing Expedition Community today! Like what you hear, but need more information?Meet with Rhea Allen#Branding #BrandLoyalty #GenerationalInfluence #MarketingEssentialsMoment #Authenticity #EngageConsistently #ActwithIntention #LeverageYourNetwork #DigitalMarketing #RealEstateVideos #VideoMarketing #AITools Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In Episode 82 of the Digital Velocity Podcast, Erik Martinez is joined by consultant and hospitality industry veteran Mark Maynard for a conversation that bridges the gap between high-touch restaurant experiences and high-scale direct-to-consumer businesses. Mark shares hard-won lessons on building brands that customers love and teams that perform. This episode reveals how purpose, culture, and emotional connection can drive performance across industries, from jazz clubs to ecommerce storefronts. Leaders will gain actionable takeaways on: How to define and live a brand purpose that attracts the right customers and employees The hidden cost of misaligned culture in fast-scaling businesses Why customer experience is emotional — and how it can differentiate commoditized products Lessons from hospitality that translate directly to brand loyalty and retention Whether you're leading a lifestyle brand, scaling a DTC startup, or optimizing customer experience in a competitive space, this episode offers cross-industry wisdom on how to build purpose-led companies that grow with heart and impact. Linkedin - Mark Maynard Maynard Consulting
From the archive: This episode was originally recorded and published in 2022. Our interviews on Entrepreneurs On Fire are meant to be evergreen, and we do our best to confirm that all offers and URL's in these archive episodes are still relevant. Andy Schreiber is co-founder of Pure Vitamin Club, Pure Coffee Club, and NSNG Foods, along with his business partner Vinnie Tortorich, a multi-time guest on Entrepreneurs On Fire and a Fire Nation fav. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. Build brand loyalty. Do that by offering value above and beyond your products and services. Make sure that people look to you as a resource for information. 2. Build your brand slowly without incurring any unnecessary debt or risk. That's key to the business model. Risk cautiously. 3. Don't always hammer away with pitching. Use social media to establish loyalty by giving out information. Check out Pure Vitamin Club's website - Pure Vitamin Club Sponsor Northwest Registered Agent - Don't wait. Protect your privacy, build your brand and set up your business in just 10 clicks in 10 minutes. Visit NorthwestRegisteredAgent.com/fire and start building something amazing.
In this special edition episode, Michael LeBlanc and Steve Dennis address the unprecedented challenges facing retailers with Steve's "10 Tantalizing Tips for Tumultuous Times." Steve rates current market turbulence at a 9 out of 10, comparing it to COVID-era disruption but noting the added complexity of legal uncertainties around tariff policies.The news segment covers significant retail developments, starting with ongoing tariff turmoil. A U.S. court ruled Trump's tariff policies illegal, creating additional uncertainty for retailers already struggling with implementation. Steve explains how this legal challenge, combined with the administration's failure to secure the promised "90 deals in 90 days," has intensified market turbulence.Earnings season revealed stark contrasts in retail performance. While Abercrombie & Fitch, Costco, and Dick's Sporting Goods posted strong results, Target's struggles were particularly alarming—down nearly 4% compared to Walmart's 4-5% growth, highlighting a major and continuing performance gap between direct competitors. Department stores including Macy's, Dillards, and Kohl's continued their downward trajectory, with most posting negative comps. The episode also covers Hudson's Bay Company's final closure in Canada, with Canadian Tire acquiring the historic brand's IP for $30 million.The second segment focuses on ten essential tactics for survival and growth. The first foundational tips emphasize radical commitment to reality and transparency, urging retailers to honestly assess their situation and act accordingly. Steve advocates for embracing uncertainty and building agility into operations, followed by maintaining innovation through continuous testing despite budget pressures.Customer-focused strategies include choosing your passionate core of fans (inspired by Seth Godin's work), being human-centered while digitally enabled, and prioritizing storytelling over purely functional benefits. Steve emphasizes that people buy a brand's story before they buy the product.Strategic excellence tips include "editing to amplify"—narrowing customer and offering focus to boost signal amid market noise—and conducting comprehensive friction audits of the customer journey. The hosts stress distinguishing between table stakes (necessary but non-differentiating capabilities) and true differentiators that create competitive advantage.The final tip, "cash is king," proves particularly relevant given tariff impacts on cash flow. Throughout the discussion, the hosts acknowledge that guidance must be tailored to individual circumstances—strategies for Walmart differ significantly from those needed by smaller specialty retailers. The episode serves as both a reality check and practical roadmap for retailers navigating what Steve describes as an era of unprecedented uncertainty, volatility, and competitive pressure where strong players are aggressively pursuing market share opportunities. Here is a 10% off code for the CommerceNext Growth Show exclusive to Remarkable Retail listeners: REMARKABLE. About UsSteve 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, keynote speaker and now, media entrepreneur. He has been on the front lines of retail industry change for his entire career. Michael has delivered keynotes, hosted fire-side discussions and participated worldwide in thought leadership panels, most recently on the main stage in Toronto at Retail Council of Canada's Retail Marketing conference with leaders from Walmart & Google. He brings 25+ years of brand/retail/marketing & eCommerce leadership experience with Levi's, Black & Decker, Hudson's Bay, CanWest Media, Pandora Jewellery, The Shopping Channel and Retail Council of Canada to his advisory, speaking and media practice.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.Rethink Retail has recognized Michael as one of the top global retail experts for the fourth year in a row, Thinkers 360 has named him on of the Top 50 global thought leaders in retail, RTIH has named him a top 100 global though leader in retail technology and Coresight Research has named Michael a Retail AI Influencer. If you are a BBQ fan, you can tune into Michael's cooking show, Last Request BBQ, on YouTube, Instagram, X and yes, TikTok.Michael is available for keynote presentations helping retailers, brands and retail industry insiders explaining the current state and future of the retail industry in North America and around the world.
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