Podcasts about brand strategy

A CMO Confidential Interview with Dr. David Bray, Distinguished Fellow and Chair of the Accelerator with the Alfred Lee Loomis Innovation Council and bipartisan advisor on cyber, space, AI as well as countering terrorism, inauthentic information campaigns, and bioterrorism. David shares thoughts on why geopolitics have become so important so quickly, the universal breakdown in trust, how anxiety fuels anger, which fuels grievance, and how business leaders might adjust to all of this.Key topics include: - Why geopolitical and tech issues should be added to the "risk management committee"- The need for contingency planning and directional decision-making - How anyone is now the equivalent of a 1970's cold war spy- Why "getting better at discernment" is critical. Tune in to hear about "responsible heretics" and how a high school science project resulted in a South American assignment for a 17-year old.⏱️ Chapters1:12: Introducing Dr. David Bray1:39: Why Business Leaders Should Care About Geopolitics2:33: Mapping the Ripple Effects of Technological Revolutions4:47: Historical Context: 1890s Polarization and Yellow Journalism7:01: Societal Anxiety, Governance, and the Path to Anarchy9:10: Impact on Global Supply Chains and Geopolitical Uncertainty12:25: The Complexity of Microprocessors and Hardware Risks14:10: Upgrading the Board: Risk Management for Tech and Geopolitics16:21: Pressures on the C-Suite and Decision-Making with Incomplete Information18:06: Marketing in a Volatile Landscape: Early Signal Networks20:07: The Role of the “Responsible Heretic” in Avoiding Groupthink23:29: Managing Super-Empowered Employees and Information Capabilities25:16: Disinformation Strategy: From Operation Denver to Modern Bots27:56: Balancing Principles, Ethics, and Global Competitiveness29:07: Preparing for the Future: Data Reassessment and the Art of Discernment31:43: Strategic Headspace: Establishing Pivot Options33:11: Predictions for 2026: AI Pushback and Conflict De-escalation34:03: Funniest Story: The South American Science Fair Mosh Pit35:51: Practical Advice: Leadership vs. Management Expectations36:07: Final Takeaways and Closing RemarksThis episode is sponsored by Typeface - the agentic AI marketing platform that turns one idea into thousands of on-brand assets. Learn more: typeface.ai/cmo. Subscribe for weekly episodes featuring world-class marketing leaders, board members, and C-Suite executives.#CMOConfidential, #MarketingLeadership, #BrandStrategy, #CorporateActivism, #MarketingStrategy, #CMO, #AIinMarketing, #ExecutiveLeadership, #BrandReputation, #ConsumerTrust, #DigitalMarketing, #MarketingInsights, #ThoughtLeadership, #BusinessStrategy, #CustomerCentricSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Old Grand-Dad is a titan among budget bourbons, known for its punchy, high-rye mash bill. But the brand is evolving. In this episode, Jake and Scott dive into the deep history of Old Grand-Dad, tracing it from the 1800s through its current era under the Jim Beam umbrella.We explore the expanded lineup, from the standard 7-year bottled-in-bond to ultra-premium, age-stated releases like the rare 16-year. The core of this discussion, however, centers on the beloved 114 proof and the launch of the new signed single barrel variant. Can aging hide the signature OGD profile? Does Beam's extensive line expansion threaten its core brands?We break down tasting notes, discuss warehouse terroir, and offer recommendations for all levels of bourbon explorers navigating this crowded, complex market.

On this episode of The Buzz, Scott Luton is joined by special co-host Dr. Muddassir Ahmed and special guest Anthony Reeves, Vice President of Global Brand & Creative at Kohler and author of Eat the Donkey: Why Great Companies Embrace Discomfort. Together, they explore the realities of AI adoption, decision-making optimization, innovation, leadership, and what separates organizations that thrive from those that struggle to keep pace. As supply chains continue to evolve in the age of AI, organizations face critical decisions about technology adoption, data quality, change management, and leadership. Scott, Muddassir, and Anthony examine why many AI initiatives fail, what companies can learn from both successes and setbacks, and why strong decision-making remains one of the most valuable competitive advantages. The conversation also explores the growing importance of human connection, brand differentiation, organizational culture, and the willingness to embrace discomfort in pursuit of long-term growth. Drawing on experiences from Amazon, Kohler, Starbucks, and other global brands, Anthony shares powerful lessons on innovation, leadership, and staying true to what makes an organization unique. Key Takeaways: AI success depends as much on adoption, change management, and leadership as it does on technology. High-quality, contextualized data remains the foundation for effective AI implementation. Organizations must learn from failed initiatives just as much as successful ones. Soft skills, emotional intelligence, and human connection will become increasingly valuable as AI handles more routine work. Strong brands remain differentiated by purpose, customer experience, and authenticity—not technology alone. Great leaders make difficult decisions early rather than delaying action until opportunities have passed. Whether you're leading a supply chain transformation, evaluating AI investments, or building a stronger organization, this episode offers practical insights from leaders who have navigated innovation at the highest levels. You'll walk away with actionable advice on decision-making, change management, leadership, and creating organizations that can thrive amid constant disruption. Additional Links & Resources: Guest LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyreeves/ Guest Instagram Handle: @anthony.j.reeves Guest Company Website: anthonyreeves.co APL Logistics: https://www.apllogistics.com/ With That Said: https://bit.ly/WTS-7JUN2026 The Corner Market: https://bit.ly/The-Corner-Market Exclusive: Starbucks scraps AI inventory tool across North America: https://reut.rs/4vuPSkR 4 Supply Chain and AI Predictions for 2026: https://bit.ly/AI-Predictions-2026 AI Strategy Takes A Data Foundation That Cleansing Can't Provide: https://bit.ly/Paul-Noble-Gartner2026-Takeaways 5 Signs Your Supply Chain Has Outgrown How It's Managed Today: https://bit.ly/5-signs-your-SC-has-outgrown-mgmt Eat the Donkey: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0G97CHK9F When Safety Technologies Backfire and How Managers Can Prevent It: https://bit.ly/When-Safety-Tech-Backfires Upcoming Live Programming:  https://supplychainnow.com/upcoming-live-programming/ Supply Chain Now Resource Hub: https://supplychainnow.com/resource-hub/ Connect with Anthony on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthonyreeves/ SCMDOJO: https://sensei.scmdojo.com/ Connect with Muddassir on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muddassirism/ Follow Scott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottwindonluton/ WEBINAR- Amazon Supply Chain 101: Enabling efficiency and growth for businesses everywhere–and everywhere they sell: https://bit.ly/49r8N7D WEBINAR- The Expanding Role of Supply Chain Optimization Teams in Driving Business Impact: https://bit.ly/3PHRAAf WEBINAR- AI that moves at velocity: Cut through latency with agentic workflows: https://bit.ly/4x4626t This episode was hosted by Scott Luton and Dr. Mudassir Ahmed. For additional information, please visit our dedicated show page at: https://supplychainnow.com/buzz-ai-adoption-brand-differentiation-embracing-comfort-1595 The content in this episode, including all audio, videos, visuals, and graphics, is the property of Supply Chain Now and is protected by copyright law. Unauthorized use, reproduction, distribution, modification, or re-uploading of this content in any form is strictly prohibited without explicit written permission from Supply Chain Now.For licensing inquiries or permissions, please contact us at production@supplychainnow.com© 2026 Supply Chain Now. All rights reserved. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fresh off a $10 billion valuation, the direct-from-manufacturer online retailer Quince is on a hot streak. It's been testing physical retail with pop-ups and expanding into new categories, from furniture to caviar. But while the company had no shortage of sales, what it was lacking was a coherent brand story. Dakota Kate Isaacs, formerly a senior director at The Ordinary, started at Quince in February as the company's first head of brand strategy and narrative. Her goal has been to help Quince build an emotional connection with its customers, for reasons beyond just the low prices that attract them in the first place. Isaacs spoke with senior fashion reporter Danny Parisi at the Glossy E-commerce Summit in Miami this month to discuss what strategies she's been adopting to build those relationships. "My goal is not to create a new story for the brand, but [instead] to articulate the story to everyone," she said. "The narrative around Quince often gets condensed just to price, but the price isn't the story. The price is the result of the system, and the system is the story." To that end, Isaacs has been pushing for more initiatives, including a recent furniture pop-up in Los Angeles. Isaacs said pop-ups allow new categories like fragrance and wellness to be introduced in a more comprehensive, aesthetically cohesive way, with accompanying imagery and branding. For example, another recent pop-up for its fine jewelry category was held in a coffee shop in Manhattan. "I'm working to tell the true story of the business," Isaacs said. "What makes this business unique is the technology and the system behind the business

Welcome to Nerd Alert, a series of special episodes bridging the gap between marketing academia and practitioners. We're breaking down highly involved, complex research into plain language and takeaways any marketer can use. In this episode, Elena and Rob explore why consumers sometimes turn on brands after an acquisition, even when the product hasn't changed, and what marketers can do to soften the blow.Topics covered:[02:05] "When and Why Consumers React Negatively to Brand Acquisitions: A Values Authenticity Account"[03:00] What is values authenticity, and why does it matter?[04:05] Why the underdog effect isn't the real culprit[04:40] How a 15% stake can start eroding consumer trust[05:55] Five factors that can reduce acquisition backlash[06:55] What competing brand equities mean for marketersTo learn more, visit marketingarchitects.com/podcast Resources: Biraglia, A., Fuchs, C., Maira, E., & Puntoni, S. (2023). When and why consumers react negatively to brand acquisitions: A values authenticity account. Journal of Marketing, 87(4), 601–617. https://doi.org/10.1177/00222429221137817 Get more research-backed marketing strategies by subscribing to The Marketing Architects on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

95% of senior marketing leaders are already using or planning to use synthetic data within 12 months. So why are so many marketers still on the fence?In this episode, Elena, Angela, and Rob talk with Peter Weinberg, co-founder of Evidenza and former head of research at LinkedIn's B2B Institute. They discuss where to start with synthetic audiences, how to assess accuracy, and why brand building still matters as AI changes how people search and decide.Topics covered:•    [00:00] Introductions and what synthetic research actually is•    [03:00] Why 95% of marketing leaders plan to use synthetic data within 12 months•    [05:00] Synthetic research really replaces ignorance, not traditional surveys•    [09:00] How to evaluate accuracy in synthetic research tools•    [10:30] Where marketers should start: find the white spaces first•    [16:00] Why AI can be creative and what 'temperature' means for marketers•    [24:00] Why brand still matters in an AI-driven search world•    [28:00] How Evidenza applied Ehrenberg-Bass principles to build their own brand•    [34:00] Why more real-time data can lead to worse decisionsTo learn more, visit marketingarchitects.com/podcast or subscribe to our newsletter at marketingarchitects.com/newsletter.Resources:2025 Qualtrics Article: https://www.qualtrics.com/articles/strategy-research/synthetic-research-breakthrough/Peter's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/weinbergpeter/Get more research-backed marketing strategies by subscribing to The Marketing Architects on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

A CMO Confidential Interview with Joe Gagliese, Co-Founder and CEO at Viral Nation, a full-service digital and social agency. Joe discusses the concept of social as "the people's media," details why he believes "discovery begins with social" and outlines how brands might think about becoming "social centered." Key topics include:Why social has become a prerequisite for certain categoriesQuestions to ask your social agencyWhy measurement is still a bit of an Achilles heelHow to think of social as a living organism which works in concert with the rest of your marketingTune in to hear why social is so important for autos and thoughts on reading Marcus Aurelius.⏱️ Chapters01:12 - Introduction to CMO Confidential01:42 - Introducing Joe Gagliese02:46 - Defining "Social First"05:40 - Social Strategy as a Behavioral System08:03 - The Prerequisite of Radical Transparency12:11 - Transitioning to a Social-First Organization15:03 - Maintaining Authenticity with Creators17:33 - Steps to Develop a Social-First Strategy20:20 - Determining Brand Readiness22:01 - Measuring Social Performance and Conversion25:18 - Five Questions to Ask Social Agencies28:28 - Common Mistakes in Social Marketing30:10 - Practical Advice and Closing RemarksThis episode is sponsored by Typeface - the agentic AI marketing platform that turns one idea into thousands of on-brand assets. Learn more: typeface.ai/cmo.Subscribe for weekly episodes featuring world-class marketing leaders, board members, and C-Suite executives.#CMOConfidential, #MarketingLeadership, #BrandStrategy, #CorporateActivism, #MarketingStrategy, #CMO, #AIinMarketing, #ExecutiveLeadership, #BrandReputation, #ConsumerTrust, #DigitalMarketing, #MarketingInsights, #ThoughtLeadership, #BusinessStrategy, #CustomerCentricSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

IN CLEAR FOCUS: Tiffany Rose Goodyear, founder of Scentex, explores scent in brand strategy. Because olfaction bypasses rational thought and links directly to emotion and memory, it offers an unmatched opportunity for connection. Learn why Western culture historically ignored smell, how color theory informs fragrance design, and how to execute immersive scentscapes at live events. Discover how to move beyond sight and sound to create multi-sensory experiences that drive real action.

On Your World of Creativity, we travel around the world talking with creative leaders who turn ideas into impact.Last time Aurora Winter joined us, we explored her book Turn Words Into Wealth. Now she's back with a bold new message: 2026 is “do or die” for experts and entrepreneurs. Today we're diving into her newest release, Brand Strategy in the Age of AI — and what it takes to build a valuable, future-proof brand in an AI-powered world.Aurora Winter is a bestselling author, brand strategist, and former TV executive producer who helps experts and entrepreneurs turn their message into money. With a background in storytelling and showrunning, she's guided thousands of leaders to create influential, scalable brands.Aurora's WebsiteAurora on YouTube@aurorawintermba on InstagramHer new book, Brand Strategy in the Age of AI, tackles one urgent question: Will AI replace you — or amplify you?1 — Why 2026 Is “Do or Die”Aurora, last time we spoke about turning words into wealth. Now you're saying that 2026 is a “do or die” moment for experts and entrepreneurs. That's strong language. What's happening right now that makes this moment so critical?What are you seeing that most leaders are underestimating about AI's impact on branding and visibility?2 — Catching the AI Wave (Without Being Replaced)There's a lot of fear in the market right now — will AI replace writers, coaches, strategists, consultants? From your perspective, how can entrepreneurs catch the AI wave and profit rather than get wiped out by it?You talk about four human superpowers that AI can't replicate. What are they — and how do they translate into a valuable brand? Your story; your presence; your sense of style; your leadership approach.3 — The Visibility Imperative (Why Video Matters)You've said leaders who skip video are training the market to ignore them. That's provocative. Why is video so essential in the AI era?How does the “movie trailer mindset” help leaders grab attention in a crowded digital landscape?4 — Think Like a ShowrunnerYou come from television and production, and now you're applying what you call the “Netflix Framework” — thinking like a showrunner to build binge-worthy content. What does that mean for a founder or expert building a brand?You also mention leveraging a “fractional Showrunner.” What is that role, and why might it be the missing piece for scaling a powerful personal brand?5 — Early Adopters Win (How to Be One)You've said that early adopters with the right brand strategy are going to crush it in 2026. What does “the right strategy” actually look like?If someone listening feels behind, what's one move they can make this month to position themselves as an amplified expert rather than an invisible one?We explored all these themes:• AI as amplifier, not enemy• Human superpowers as differentiator• Showrunner thinking for strategic visibility• Brand as intellectual property• Early adoption as leverage

AI is changing how people discover, evaluate, trust, buy, create, hire, and compete. The bigger question is whether your business model is built to survive a future where attention is fragmented, trust is harder to earn, execution is easier to automate, and buyers have more options than ever. Learn how to activate the M.A.S.S. Effect Business Model, a strategic ecosystem built around: • Media to create attention, trust, authority, and discoverability • Assets to create scalability, leverage, and income beyond your direct time • Strategy to create clarity, alignment, interpretation, and better decisions • Systems to reduce friction, support consistency, and keep the business moving Many businesses are addicted to acquisition because they never built retention. In an AI accelerated world, that becomes dangerous because information is easier to access, skills are being compressed, and execution is becoming automated. The real value now shifts toward trust, experience, clarity, influence, systems, and community. The future belongs to adaptive businesses that can evolve with the market, keep customers connected, turn trust into retention, and scale without breaking the founder, team, or customer experience. If your business grew tomorrow, could it actually hold the growth, or would the model collapse under the weight of what you asked for? Beyond The Episode Gems: Buy Troy's Book, Strategize Up: The Blueprint To Scale Your Business StrategizeUpBook.com Discover All Podcasts On The HubSpot Podcast Network Get Free HubSpot Marketing Tools To Help You Grow Your Business Grow Your Business Faster Using HubSpot's CRM Platform Support The Podcast & Connect With Troy:  Rate & Review iDigress: iDigress.fm/Reviews Follow Troy's Socials @FindTroy: LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, TikTok Subscribe to Troy's YouTube Channel For Strategy Videos & See Masterclass Episodes Need Growth Strategy, A Keynote Speaker, Or Want To Sponsor The Podcast? Go To FindTroy.com

Former comedy writer Bette Bentley built Skimpies—the world's first liner designed specifically for leggings—into a number one TikTok brand entirely through organic livestreams, bypassing paid ads by treating the platform like an interactive group chat. This innovative founder breaks down how she embraced raw authenticity to collapse the traditional sales funnel, handle extreme burnout, and turn a grueling six-month streaming schedule into a $60,000 warehouse livestream. For more on Skimpies and show notes, click here. Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

What happens when the leader of a legacy beauty brand starts talking about more than skincare products? Joy, purpose, and profit. Episode Summary In this final installment of Jenn Whitmer's conversation with Helen Morrison of Frownies, the discussion expands beyond brand growth and social media into a deeper conversation about power, beauty standards, aging, visibility, leadership, and influence. Helen shares how she sees Frownies as more than a skincare company. For her, the brand is an opportunity to challenge harmful beauty narratives, help women reclaim agency, and use influence responsibly. Rather than chasing profit alone, Helen is focused on building a company that leaves people better than it found them. Jenn and Helen also explore what it means to lead with purpose, create from deep alignment, and stay visible in a culture that often encourages women to disappear as they age. This episode is a thoughtful listen for leaders, entrepreneurs, founders, creatives, and business owners who want to grow something meaningful without losing themselves in the process. In this episode, you'll learn: 01:36 Helen shares what she has learned about power, responsibility, and stewardship, and why influence becomes dangerous when it is disconnected from purpose. 04:52 What happens when purpose and joy are the center of a business. 11:07 How purpose-driven leadership shapes growth, impact, and legacy. 12:03 What joy at work looks like. 13:31 Should women remain visible as they age? Key takeaway: Leading with purpose means using your influence to challenge harmful norms, stay visible, and build something that creates real good beyond profit. Why You Should Listen You want to build a mission-driven brand without sacrificing growth or integrity. You're thinking deeply about leadership and influence and how to use both responsibly. You care about changing beauty culture instead of simply participating in it. You want to stay visible and confident as you age in business and in life. You're a founder, creative, or business owner trying to grow something powerful while staying aligned with your values. If you lead a business, a team, or a brand built on trust, this conversation offers a powerful example of what it looks like to grow with integrity. Helen Morrison shares honest insight on leadership, visibility, social media backlash, authentic marketing, customer loyalty, and scaling a business in the digital age. About Helen MorrisonHelen Morrison is the fifth-generation CEO of Frownies, the iconic family-owned, women-led skincare brand founded in 1889. A great-great-granddaughter of founder Margaret Krosen, Helen has helped lead the brand into the modern era, blending legacy, storytelling, and customer connection with a sharp instinct for digital growth. After joining Frownies full-time in 2020 as Director of Brand Strategy, she became the relatable face of the brand across social media, helping turn a long-trusted beauty secret into a viral modern phenomenon while staying rooted in the personal, high-touch care that built the company in the first place. Today, Helen is known for her honest, approachable voice, her ability to translate heritage into relevance, and her leadership in growing Frownies without losing the heart of what made it matter for generations. Grab $10 off Frownies here! jennwhitmer.com/frownies Helen's Socials:Instagram: https:instagram.com/helenkmorrison/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@helenkmorrison LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/helen-morrison-09469769 About the Host: Jenn Whitmer Jenn is an international keynote speaker, leadership consultant, and the founder of Joyosity™, helping leaders create positive, profitable cultures through connection, curiosity, and joy. With a background in communication, conflict resolution, and team dynamics, Jenn helps leaders and organizations navigate complex people challenges, reduce burnout, and build flourishing workplaces. Her insights have resonated with audiences worldwide, blending real-world leadership expertise, engaging storytelling, and a dash of humor to make the hard stuff easier. Whether on stage, in workshops, or with coaching clients, Jenn equips leaders with the tools they need to solve conflict, cultivate communication, and lead with purpose. Her book Joyosity and the Joyosity Works Playbooks offer leaders a fresh approach to joy at work that builds real results. jennwhitmer.com Jenn's Socials: Instagraminstagram.com/jenn_whitmer Linkedinlinkedin.com/in/jennwhitmer Podcast edited by Katey Perkins, Midsouth Story Co Resources & Links: Ready to stop over-functioning and start leading with more clarity, intention, and joy? There is a program for you. Join the waitlist here: jennwhitmer.com/waitlist Get Joyosity and the Joyosity Works Playbook Joyosity: How to Cultivate Intense Happiness in Work & Life (Even If Things Are What They Are) Joy isn't extra. Joy is how you thrive. This book gives leaders the tools to turn exhaustion into resilience and build cultures where work is a joy, people are whole, and organizations flourish. Joyosity Works Playbook: Practical Plays and Strategies for Joy at Work and Beyond is the official companion workbook to Joyosity to help you practice joy every day. Find direct links to purchase at your favorite booksellers at https://jennwhitmer.com/books. Free 99: Joyosity Explorer Map → This map will guide you to understanding the deeper purpose and story you tell yourself about your work. Joy is linked to purpose and productivity increases by 20% or more when you directly link your purpose to your work. Ready to Make a Plan: Joyosity™ Jumpstart → Get crystal clear on what you want, what's in the way, and how to move forward with traction. Starting the Journey: Enneagram Navigator → Stop guessing your type. In this 1:1 session, get clarity on your motivations and blind spots. Ready to Dive In: Joyosity™ Intensive → A one-day transformative experience to realign with your values and build a practical plan for joyful leadership. A Party for More: Bring Jenn & the Joy to Speak → Bring the spark (not just the spark notes!) to your whole team with contagious joy, practical tools, and plenty of laughter. Loved this episode? Rate, review, and share with a fellow leader who's ready to ditch the drama and lead with more joy, curiosity, and clarity.

Most marketing fails before a single ad is made. Not because the execution is bad, but because teams leap straight to tactics and skip the strategy underneath. Ben Norman calls the result "busy fools": lots of activity, very little impact.Ben, Strategy Director at Principles Agency and host of Marketing Room 101, joins Chris and Will to break down what brand strategy actually is, why so many senior marketers get it wrong, and how to do it properly without drowning in 20-page decks and brand "salad bowls".What you'll learn:The simplest definition of strategy you'll hear, using Ben's "person and product" modelWhy diagnosis comes before strategy, and strategy before tactics (borrowed from the ancient Greeks)The Three Cs framework: customer, company, competition, and why every problem comes back to themThe "bow tie" method for distilling a mountain of insight down to a single wordWhy you should think in alternatives, not competitors (a Snickers competes with doing nothing, not just a KitKat)The McCafé anti-poncery campaign and what makes it a masterclass in positioningWhy "channel neutrality" matters, and why SEO, GEO and AEO are all just "search"How strategic thinking applies to everything from cleaning your house to running the countryPlus Ben serves up his now-famous Menu of Mistakes, including the £70k pitch that got away, the food shoot where he forgot to book the art director and styled it out by pretending he was one, and the Wally the Whale mascot meltdown at Wetherby Racecourse that ruined childhoods and lost punters their bets.The conversation closes with the three things Ben would banish from marketing right now: tiny microphones, people misusing the word "omnichannel", and the damage social media is doing to society.Chapters:0:00 Intro 1:15 Building a podcast with Room 101 4:35 Mini MBA and marketing basics 7:40 What strategy really means 12:35 The Three Cs and the bow tie 17:55 Listening first and field research 21:00 Knowing when insight is enough 24:55 McCafé and anti-poncery positioning 29:10 Strategy thinking in daily life 34:45 False binaries and channel neutrality 39:35 What communications means in practice 42:25 The menu of marketing mistakes 46:30 Wally the Whale mascot meltdown 51:05 The missing art director food shoot 54:40 Three things to banish now 57:35 Social media harm and regulationConnect with Ben Norman on LinkedInSend us Fan Mail Is your strategy still right in 2026? Book a free 15-min no obligation discovery call with our host:

Brand strategy is easily derailed. All of a sudden, the whole company invites itself into the room, sales invents three new offer names, the CEO wants the brand to feel “premium”, and nobody can accurately explain what the business does.In this solo episode, Jack Ferguson answers brand strategy questions from Reddit that cover a spectrum of issues that arise within companies.He covers:How to stop brand strategy meetings turning into philosophy clubWhat to do when your positioning, USP, and messaging get a “nobody cares” response from the marketHow to know whether your positioning is effectiveThe impact of changing a brand name on brand equityHow to think of a personal brand vs a company brandWays in which “premium” positioning falls apartHow to know whether you need a rebrand or refreshWhat to do when sales, marketing, leadership, and customer success all describe the brand differentlyBrand Architecture issues after mergers and acquisitionsPrerequisites to altering brand assets like your logoHelpful Links:Find Jack:- On LinkedIn- WebsiteFind The Push:- On LinkedIn- On YouTube Music- On TikTok- On Instagram- Website

Marketing leaders are being asked to drive more growth with less budget, fewer resources, tighter timelines, and more pressure from every direction while AI is being treated like the shortcut to replace entire marketing teams. But AI will not fix bad strategy, weak alignment, poor customer understanding, or broken marketing fundamentals. In part two of this master class conversation with Matt Hummel, CMO of Pipeline360, the focus moves into what it really takes to become the kind of CMO AI cannot replace. Not by chasing every new tool, adding more MarTech, or hiding behind automation, but by understanding the business as a whole, building trust across departments, speaking the language of revenue, and creating alignment between marketing, sales, product, leadership, and the customer. To lead marketing in a volatile market where expectations keep rising and the old playbook is no longer enough, you need to know how to: • Make sales an ally instead of your bitter rival • Build shared pipeline ownership across marketing and sales  • Communicate risk without becoming defensive • Connect marketing decisions to the larger goals of the business • Set clearer expectations with your team and leadership • Understand resource constraints without using them as excuses • Stay close to customers while leading strategy • Create momentum without pretending there is an easy button The best marketing leaders are not just managing campaigns, tools, reports, and dashboards. They are translating complexity into strategy the business can trust. The reminder is clear: AI will not fix bad strategy. More MarTech will not fix bad marketing. The CMO AI cannot replace is the one who understands the business, earns trust, aligns with sales, leads the team, knows the customer, and gets back to real marketing when everyone else is hiding behind tools. (P.S. If you haven't, listen to Ep. 149 for part one of this masterclass episode) Beyond The Episode Gems: Connect With Matt Hummel on LinkedIn Listen To Troy On Matt's Podcast, Pipeline Brew: The Evolving Role of CMOs & Community Building Visit Pipeline360 website to learn more about how they solve B2B marketers' biggest headaches Buy Troy's Book, Strategize Up: The Blueprint To Scale Your Business StrategizeUpBook.com Discover All Podcasts On The HubSpot Podcast Network Get Free HubSpot Marketing Tools To Help You Grow Your Business Grow Your Business Faster Using HubSpot's CRM Platform Support The Podcast & Connect With Troy:  Rate & Review iDigress: iDigress.fm/Reviews Follow Troy's Socials @FindTroy: LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, TikTok Subscribe to Troy's YouTube Channel For Strategy Videos & See Masterclass Episodes Need Growth Strategy, A Keynote Speaker, Or Want To Sponsor The Podcast? Go To FindTroy.com  

Marketing leadership has become one of the most volatile seats in business. CMOs and marketing leaders are often expected to create immediate pipeline, prove instant ROI, fix deeper business issues they did not create, defend brand investment, align sales, understand customers, translate strategy across the organization, and still become one of the first functions questioned, blamed, or cut when growth slows. In part one of this master class conversation, Matt Hummel, CMO of Pipeline360, brings a clear reminder back to the table: great marketing starts with trusting the buyer, knowing the customer, and simplifying how you market. In a market obsessed with performance data, attribution, automation, dark social, buyer signals, and immediate results, more complexity does not automatically create better customer understanding. For aspiring CMOs, current CMOs, marketing leaders, founders, and business owners, this conversation is a valuable look at how to lead marketing without getting trapped in the pressure cooker. It challenges you to rethink what it really means to put the customer at the center, not as a tagline, not as another automation workflow, and not as another dashboard filled with signals, but as a deeper responsibility to understand the person, pressure, timing, risk, and decision behind the purchase. The conversation moves through buyer trust, brand versus demand, customer empathy, attribution, sales alignment, CMO pressure, market timing, and the difference between chasing pipeline and building LTV. It is also a reminder to get out of your lane, understand product, spend time with sales, listen to customers, and learn how the whole business works. Because the best CMOs are not just campaign operators. They are translators, mediators, trust builders, and business leaders who know how to connect marketing to revenue, customer experience, and long term growth. Beyond The Episode Gems: Connect With Matt Hummel on LinkedIn Listen To Troy On Matt's Podcast, Pipeline Brew: The Evolving Role of CMOs & Community Building Visit Pipeline360 website to learn more about how they solve B2B marketers' biggest headaches Buy Troy's Book, Strategize Up: The Blueprint To Scale Your Business StrategizeUpBook.com Discover All Podcasts On The HubSpot Podcast Network Get Free HubSpot Marketing Tools To Help You Grow Your Business Grow Your Business Faster Using HubSpot's CRM Platform Support The Podcast & Connect With Troy:  Rate & Review iDigress: iDigress.fm/Reviews Follow Troy's Socials @FindTroy: LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, TikTok Subscribe to Troy's YouTube Channel For Strategy Videos & See Masterclass Episodes Need Growth Strategy, A Keynote Speaker, Or Want To Sponsor The Podcast? Go To FindTroy.com  

Liquid Death didn't win by making better water.It won by creating an entirely new category.In this episode of The Unified Brand Podcast, we break down the real strategy behind Liquid Death's rise from a “dumb idea” to a $1.4 billion brand — and why most businesses completely misunderstand what made it work.We explore:Why category creation beats category competitionHow Liquid Death positioned itself against “wellness culture”The power of choosing a brand enemyWhy tension creates magnetic brandsHow archetypes like the Outlaw and Innocent can work togetherWhy unified branding matters more than marketing tacticsThe strategic lesson founders and marketers should take from Liquid DeathThis episode is essential listening for founders, marketers, brand strategists, and business owners who want to stop blending in and start building brands people actually remember.If your brand feels stuck competing on the same messaging as everyone else in your industry, this episode will completely change how you think about positioning.Whether you're a founder, marketing director, or business leader managing a growing brand across multiple teams or regions, this episode will help you identify the hidden friction points holding your brand back.Take the Brand Power Assessment: ⁠⁠BrandPowerScorecard.co.uk⁠⁠Book a ⁠⁠Free Brand Discovery Call:⁠⁠Subscribe for more episodes focused on building stronger, smarter, and more unified brands.Watch podcast clips & deep dives on YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Elements Brand Management⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

The May 2026 Dispatch discusses the acquisition of Everlane by Shein, Zara's evolving brand strategy, and The Right Rooms. This episode explores trust in fashion, brand credibility, and industry innovation.Follow On Substack: https://righthype.substack.com/publish/home

Have you ever wondered what it takes to stop just being an expert in your field and start being a recognized authority that major media outlets can't ignore?Today, we are joined by Dominic Forth who has spent over two decades mastering the intersection of media, branding, and storytelling. Dominic Forth is the founder of Thought Leaders America, a company dedicated to helping executives, founders, and changemakers amplify their voices through major media appearances, podcasts, and platforms that drive both trust and traction.Dominic Forth is the founder of Thought Leaders America, a company helping executives, founders,and changemakers amplify their voice through major media appearances, podcasts, and platforms that drive trust and traction. With 20+ years in media, branding, and storytelling, Dominic has helped hundreds of experts' land national TV coverage, high-impact podcast features, and become sought-after thought leaders in their industries. Dominic's work has been featured on NBC, CBS, FOX, and iHeartRadio. He blends strategy, authenticity, and media-savvy tactics to help people share their message and transform lives. Dominic was also the Creator of The Authority Engine securing 500+ media placements (TV & podcasts) working with a team with 40+ years of combined media experience. Dominic has helped clients land TEDx, raise capital, and build trust.CONTACT DETAILS Email: dominic@thoughtleadersamerica.com Website: www.thoughtleadersamerica.com 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. 

How do you lead a 100-year-old family brand when TikTok suddenly turns it into a viral sensation? Helen Morrison of Frownies shares what it takes to navigate legacy, leadership, criticism, and customer trust while growing fast in public. Episode Summary In this episode of the Joyosity™ Podcast, Jenn Whitmer talks with Jacqueline Kerr about how workplace change actually happens—inside teams, organizations, and systems. They explore why people often do not respond to new ideas, not because change is bad or hard, but because those ideas do not match their current priorities, pressures, incentives, or mental filters. Jacqueline shares how leaders can create the enabling conditions for change by starting small, reducing friction, building trust, and demonstrating results instead of forcing buy-in. This episode is especially helpful for leaders, managers, culture builders, HR professionals, and change agents who want to improve team habits, workplace culture, employee engagement, burnout prevention, leadership communication, and organizational change adoption. If you have ever wondered, "Why won't they just do the obvious, better thing?", this conversation will help you understand resistance to change, behavior change at work, and how to build momentum without unnecessary frustration. In this episode, you'll learn: 01:19 What shaped Helen Morrison's leadership journey. 04:37 Why working in the family business as a teenager did not feel like her dream path. 11:16 How to recognize untapped potential. 13:32 What happened when Frownies took off on TikTok and Helen became the face of the brand. 15:48 Why responding to criticism with respect became a key part of the company's identity. 17:22 How voice messages and real conversations helped turn online tension into customer trust. Key takeaway: Growing a legacy brand in public takes more than smart marketing — it takes human-centered leadership, trust, and the courage to stay authentic under pressure. Why You Should Listen Learn why people resist change less out of stubbornness and more because of competing priorities, pressure, and mental filters Hear a practical framework for creating the conditions that make change easier to adopt and sustain Get ideas for leading culture change without forcing buy-in or creating unnecessary friction Understand how small experiments and early wins can build real momentum across a team Pick up better ways to bring skeptical or resistant leaders along without dismissing the past Discover how reminders, environment design, and trust often matter more than more information Walk away with useful insight for improving team habits, reducing burnout, and leading change more effectively If you lead a business, a team, or a brand built on trust, this conversation offers a powerful example of what it looks like to grow with integrity. Helen Morrison shares honest insight on leadership, visibility, social media backlash, authentic marketing, customer loyalty, and scaling a family business in the digital age. Whether you're navigating brand growth, online criticism, legacy business challenges, or modern leadership, this episode will leave you thinking differently about what it means to stay grounded while growing in public. Jenn Whitmer talks with Helen Morrison of Frownies about leading a legacy family business through viral growth, building trust on social media, handling online criticism, and staying authentic as the public face of a modern brand. This episode is packed with insight for entrepreneurs, founders, and business leaders growing a company in the digital age. About Helen MorrisonHelen Morrison is the fifth-generation CEO of Frownies, the iconic family-owned, women-led skincare brand founded in 1889. A great-great-granddaughter of founder Margaret Krosen, Helen has helped lead the brand into the modern era, blending legacy, storytelling, and customer connection with a sharp instinct for digital growth. After joining Frownies full-time in 2020 as Director of Brand Strategy, she became the relatable face of the brand across social media, helping turn a long-trusted beauty secret into a viral modern phenomenon while staying rooted in the personal, high-touch care that built the company in the first place. Today, Helen is known for her honest, approachable voice, her ability to translate heritage into relevance, and her leadership in growing Frownies without losing the heart of what made it matter for generations. Grab $10 off Frownies here! jennwhitmer.com/frownies Helen's Socials:Instagram: https:instagram.com/helenkmorrison/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@helenkmorrison LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/helen-morrison-09469769 About the Host: Jenn Whitmer Jenn is an international keynote speaker, leadership consultant, and the founder of Joyosity™, helping leaders create positive, profitable cultures through connection, curiosity, and joy. With a background in communication, conflict resolution, and team dynamics, Jenn helps leaders and organizations navigate complex people challenges, reduce burnout, and build flourishing workplaces. Her insights have resonated with audiences worldwide, blending real-world leadership expertise, engaging storytelling, and a dash of humor to make the hard stuff easier. Whether on stage, in workshops, or with coaching clients, Jenn equips leaders with the tools they need to solve conflict, cultivate communication, and lead with purpose. Her book Joyosity and the Joyosity Works Playbooks offer leaders a fresh approach to joy at work that builds real results. jennwhitmer.com Jenn's Socials: Instagraminstagram.com/jenn_whitmer Linkedinlinkedin.com/in/jennwhitmer Podcast edited by Katey Perkins, Midsouth Story Co Resources & Links: Ready to stop over-functioning and start leading with more clarity, intention, and joy? There is a program for you. Join the waitlist here: jennwhitmer.com/waitlist Get Joyosity and the Joyosity Works Playbook Joyosity: How to Cultivate Intense Happiness in Work & Life (Even If Things Are What They Are) Joy isn't extra. Joy is how you thrive. This book gives leaders the tools to turn exhaustion into resilience and build cultures where work is a joy, people are whole, and organizations flourish. Joyosity Works Playbook: Practical Plays and Strategies for Joy at Work and Beyond is the official companion workbook to Joyosity to help you practice joy every day. Find direct links to purchase at your favorite booksellers at https://jennwhitmer.com/books. Free 99: Joyosity Explorer Map → This map will guide you to understanding the deeper purpose and story you tell yourself about your work. Joy is linked to purpose and productivity increases by 20% or more when you directly link your purpose to your work. Ready to Make a Plan: Joyosity™ Jumpstart → Get crystal clear on what you want, what's in the way, and how to move forward with traction. Starting the Journey: Enneagram Navigator → Stop guessing your type. In this 1:1 session, get clarity on your motivations and blind spots. Ready to Dive In: Joyosity™ Intensive → A one-day transformative experience to realign with your values and build a practical plan for joyful leadership. A Party for More: Bring Jenn & the Joy to Speak → Bring the spark (not just the spark notes!) to your whole team with contagious joy, practical tools, and plenty of laughter. Loved this episode? Rate, review, and share with a fellow leader who's ready to ditch the drama and lead with more joy, curiosity, and clarity.

How is AI changing the way brands innovate, launch products, understand consumers, and build stronger relationships with their markets? In this episode of Grownlearn, host Zorina Dimitrova speaks with Shantanu Srivastava, a global marketing and innovation leader with more than two decades of experience across major consumer brands including Twinings, Danone, Sanofi, and Reckitt. Shantanu explains how AI is transforming marketing efficiency, product development, consumer research, compliance screening, and brand strategy inside large organizations. He also shares why human judgment remains essential, even as AI tools make innovation faster, cheaper, and more continuous. The conversation also explores the shift from traditional brand storytelling to story doing and story living, with examples from challenger and purpose-led brands such as Oatly, Tony's Chocolonely, Dove, and others. Shantanu also shares his personal transition from corporate brand leadership to entrepreneurship, including his work in health and wellness, lifestyle-related health management, and advisory work with startups and purpose-driven brands. In this episode, we discuss: • How AI is changing marketing and innovation • Why FMCG companies are rethinking consumer-led product development • How AI can reduce time and cost in research, marketing planning, and product launches • Why brand storytelling is evolving into story doing and story living • What startups can learn from global brands — and what big brands can learn from startups • How purpose-led brands create deeper consumer engagement • Why AI-driven innovation still needs human oversight • Shantanu's journey from global brand leadership to health and wellness entrepreneurship This conversation is especially relevant for founders, marketers, brand leaders, innovation teams, FMCG professionals, startup advisors, and anyone interested in the future of AI-driven brand growth.

From corporate law to building a premium tequila brand, Mara Smith shares how she identified a gap in the spirits industry and turned it into Inspiro Tequila.ABOUT THE EPISODE ⸻In this episode of The Truth About Social Ads, Jason Smith sits down with Mara Smith, founder of Inspiro Tequila, to discuss her unconventional journey from attorney and corporate strategist to entrepreneur in the tequila industry. Mara shares how discovering undisclosed additives in many premium tequilas inspired her to create a cleaner, additive-free alternative designed for modern consumers.The conversation explores the realities of building a beverage brand from scratch, including grassroots marketing, retail growth, organic social media, email marketing, collaborations, influencer partnerships, and the challenges of advertising alcohol brands on Meta platforms. Mara also explains how Inspiro Tequila differentiates itself in a highly competitive market with an all-women leadership team and a strong focus on authentic consumer connection.ABOUT THE GUEST ⸻Mara Smith is the founder of Inspiro Tequila, an additive-free tequila brand created to offer a cleaner and more approachable tequila experience. Before launching Inspiro Tequila in 2020, Mara worked as an attorney at a large law firm and later joined the corporate strategy group at McDonald's Corporation. After stepping away from corporate life to raise her family, she pursued entrepreneurship and built a tequila company focused on premium quality, female-led leadership, and modern consumer preferences. Inspiro Tequila is distilled, owned, and led by an all-women team.

In this episode of Time for a Reset: Insights from Global Brand Marketers, host Tiffany Wilburn sits down with Mickey Nelson, Director of Brand Strategy and Insights at Land O'Lakes, to discuss the urgent need for a reset in how marketing portrays rural America. Mickey shares his perspective on why the industry has historically relied on romanticised or overly simplified tropes, often ignoring the modern innovation and diversity within these communities. He highlights how Land O'Lakes is addressing this through the Modern Rural Collective, an initiative aimed at convening storytellers and brands to reshape the cultural narrative using deep insights. The conversation delves into a groundbreaking partnership with Getty Images to close the gap in rural representation and the challenges of AI generated imagery that currently defaults to outdated caricatures. Mickey explains why rural is as much a mindset as it is a place and how authentic storytelling can build stronger connections across cultural divides. For marketers looking to move beyond one dimensional personas, this discussion offers a practical look at using real voices and data to drive meaningful impact while staying true to an organisation's core values.Topics Covered:The common misconceptions and outdated tropes used to portray rural lifeWhy rural America should be viewed as a mindset rather than just a locationHow the Modern Rural Collective at Land O'Lakes works to change cultural narrativesThe risks brands face when they flatten diverse audiences into simple personasAddressing the bias in AI and data tools regarding rural imageryThe partnership between Land O'Lakes and Getty Images to modernise visual librariesBuilding a collective of brands to solve large scale cultural problemsThe importance of metacognition and emotional awareness in leadershipEpisode Chapters:00:00:25 Introduction to Mickey Nelson and Land O'Lakes 00:01:42 The reset: Portraying rural America with accuracy00:04:10 Moving beyond the "red barn" and other outdated tropes 00:08:33 The danger of flattening consumer personas00:11:37 The mission of the Modern Rural Collective 00:13:24 Reframing the narrative through brand strategy 00:19:32 Checking AI for rural bias and stereotypes 00:22:12 Balancing authenticity with marketing at scale 00:28:11 The Getty Images partnership and re-picturing rural work 00:34:23 Being a convener brand to drive social impact 00:37:41 Skills for the next generation of culture shapers 00:40:21 Personal growth through metacognitionEpisode Highlights:00:03:21 The Myth of the Rural Monolith Mickey breaks down the common misconceptions that lead brands to flatten rural audiences. He discusses the specific visual shorthand that often dominates media and why it fails to capture the modern reality.00:11:37 Convening for Cultural Change Creating a collective of brands and storytellers can change a narrative more effectively than one brand alone. This segment explains the strategy behind a recent initiative to position rural areas as hubs of talent.00:19:32 AI and the Bias Loop Artificial intelligence often relies on data that reinforces existing stereotypes about farming and rural life. Mickey describes a simple experiment that highlights why marketers must work harder to feed the machine more diverse content.00:28:11 Visual Gaps in Representation A first of its kind research project revealed startling statistics about how rural people are depicted in global image libraries. This part of the chat focuses on the specific groups that are almost entirely absent from the visual record.00:40:21 Leadership and Metacognition Staying effective in a fast paced industry requires a level of self awareness that goes beyond technical skills. Mickey shares the personal practice he uses to ensure his reactions are intentional rather than impulsive.Support the show

Advisors spend years earning credentials and almost no time showing people who they actually are. Wade Shields thinks that is the whole problem. Wade came to Elite Consulting Partners after ten years in New York City making documentary and branded content for Google, Ernst and Young and the American Cancer Society. The process he used there and the one he uses now starts the same way: figure out what the real story is before you make anything. He calls it brand forensics and it is the foundation every advisor skips. The first half of the episode is about what average advisor marketing actually looks like and why it is not working. Market updates getting two likes. Broker-dealer content no one asked for. A wall of certifications that tells someone where your niche is but nothing about who you are. Wade lays out why 96% of prospects are doing their own research before making contact and what happens to referrals when what they find looks exactly like what everyone else is putting out. The question Brian puts on the table is worth sitting with: it is not just how many referrals you are getting, it is how many referrals quietly walked away. The second half gets practical. Video outperforms every other content format seven to one and the barrier has nothing to do with equipment. When advisors sit down to record alone they focus on themselves and the result is stiff, flat content that misses the mark. Wade uses an interview approach on every production day to replicate the natural conversation an advisor already has with clients. The story of the teleprompter client is the best illustration: scripted and polished, no emotion, went nowhere. Unscripted and honest, clients are still quoting it back. The episode closes on the definition that ties everything together. Your brand is not about you. It is about how people feel when they work with you. Marketing is the assets built from that and where they go. And none of it works unless an advisor is willing to stand for something and put it out into the world. That is what Wade means when he says marketing is being brave.   Questions answered in this episode include: Why are advisors who post credentials and market updates getting two likes and no calls? What is brand forensics and why does it have to happen before anything else gets made? Why do 96% of prospects research an advisor online before they ever reach out? How does video outperform every other content format seven to one? Why do advisors freeze up in front of a camera when they are perfectly comfortable in a client meeting? What happened when a client showed up to a production day with a teleprompter and what changed when the script went away? What is the real difference between branding and marketing and which one has to come first?   Chapters: 00:00:52 — Introduction: Wade Shields and What Brand Forensics Actually Means 00:03:53 — What the Average Advisor Gets Wrong About Marketing 00:08:08 — The Referrals You Never Knew You Were Losing 00:08:57 — Why Video Outperforms Every Other Format 7 to 1 00:13:50 — Getting Advisors Out of Their Heads: The Interview Approach 00:17:56 — When Perfect Kills Good: The Unscripted Content Story 00:28:44 — Branding vs Marketing and the Final Takeaway   Learn more about Elite and our resources: Elite Consulting Partners | Financial Advisor Transitions https://eliteconsultingpartners.com Elite Marketing Concepts | Marketing Services for Financial Advisors https://elitemarketingconcepts.com Elite Advisor Successions | Advisor Mergers and Acquisitions https://eliteadvisorsuccessions.com JEDI Database Solutions | Technology Solutions for Advisors https://jedidatabasesolutions.com Elite Wealth Management Insights Report https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/insight-report Listen to more Advisor Talk episodes https://eliteconsultingpartners.com/podcasts/

In this episode, we sit down with Brieane (Brie) Olson, CEO of PacSun, for a conversation that is equal parts brand strategy masterclass and career inspiration. Brie has spent nearly two decades at PacSun — moving from design and product to marketing and digital before stepping into the CEO role three years ago — and has led one of retail's most remarkable transformation stories, taking the brand from bankruptcy to a Harvard Business School case study and a cult following with Gen Z. She opens up about the viral TikTok moment that shaped PacSun's entire philosophy around co-creation, why most brands are fundamentally misunderstanding Gen Z and Gen Alpha, and what it actually looks like to give your customers a real seat at the table — not just a focus group. She also digs into her own leadership journey, why she went back to school at 40, and what she'd tell anyone trying to build something meaningful from wherever they're starting. Her new book, Co-Created, is out now.Key Takeaways:// Treat your customers as co-creators, not an audience. The turning point in PacSun's story came when an everyday consumer — not a contracted influencer — filmed a TikTok in her bedroom that sold 11,000 pairs of jeans in under 48 hours. The lesson Brie took from it: when you truly empower customers to love and represent your brand, the results can far outpace anything a paid campaign produces.// Give Gen Z an actual seat at the table — not just a survey. PacSun's Youth Advisory Council brings together 14 young people aged 12 to 26 who function like a board of directors — weighing in on tech initiatives, marketing campaigns, and strategy. Social listening is a starting point, but the brands that win are the ones creating formal structures to involve their community in real decisions.// Experiential retail isn't complicated:  the mall is back, and unexpected pop-ups are winning. Gen Z and Gen Alpha want to touch product, hang out with friends, and be surprised. PacSun has seen major success showing up trackside at Formula One in Austin, at Goofball, and in other culturally-relevant spaces. Meeting the customer in moments that matter to them — not just in places convenient to the brand — is the new retail playbook.// You don't need a title to start leading. Brie's advice for early-career listeners: stay deeply curious, build relationships relentlessly, never stay too rigidly in your lane, and do more than what's expected of you. She also makes the point that identifying what's blocking your growth — and taking action on it — matters more than waiting for the right opportunity. She went back to school at 40. It's never too late to fill the gap.Connect with Brie: LinkedInGet a Copy of the Book: Amazon____Join the MHH Collective! The MHH Collective is a community for marketers and business owners to connect, ask real questions, and grow their careers together. Join for access to live Q&As with industry experts, a private Slack community, and ongoing resources: https://www.marketinghappyhr.com/mhh-collectiveSay hi! DM us on Instagram and let us know what content you want to hear on the show - We 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 the MHH Collective: ⁠Join now⁠Get the latest marketing trends, open jobs and MHH updates, straight to your inbox: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our email list!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow MHH on Social: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ |⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠TikTok⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

In this episode of Building Unbreakable Brands, Meghan Lynch sits down with Nadine and Derek Nicholson, co-founders of Ascend Leadership, to explore what it really takes to lead differently in a generational business. Drawing on decades of experience in executive coaching and business growth, Nadine and Derek unpack why so many leaders feel stuck in overwork and decision fatigue, and why the answer isn't working harder, but leading differently. From navigating family dynamics to building trust through better conversations, this conversation offers a clear and reassuring path forward for leaders who want to evolve their leadership without losing what made the business successful in the first place.Key Topics DiscussedIdentify the “founder's curse” and why deep knowledge of the business can make it harder to let go and growRedefine leadership across generations by honoring legacy while stepping into your own leadership strengthsUse courageous conversations to protect relationships, not avoid tension—and prevent long-term resentmentRecognize and close the “say-do gap” to build trust, accountability, and leadership integrityAddress the “support gap” by aligning roles, strengthening teams, and designing leadership intentionallyShift out of overwork and into sustainable performance by rethinking how time, energy, and decisions are managedFind out what stage of the Middle Zone you're currently in with the Impossible Freedom quiz.Read Nadine and Derek's new book, Impossible Freedom.Connect with Nadine and Derek on LinkedInConnect with Meghan Lynch on LinkedInBuilding Unbreakable Brands is produced by Six-Point Strategy

In this episode of the That's Just Good Podcast, we sit down with Jennifer Haworth, Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of Globe Life, to explore the intersection of brand strategy, sports marketing, corporate social responsibility, and community impact. With more than two decades of leadership at Globe Life, Jennifer oversees national marketing strategy, major sports partnerships, and brand operations tied to organizations like the Texas Rangers, Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Lakers, and Atlanta Braves. She also plays a leading role in Globe Life's charitable initiatives through the Make Tomorrow Better giving program. In this conversation, we discuss: • Corporate social responsibility and brand leadership • Sports marketing and community engagement • Purpose-driven marketing strategies • Building authentic partnerships through sports and philanthropy • How businesses can align brand influence with social impact • The role of corporate giving in company culture and community trust Jennifer shares insights on how organizations can think beyond visibility and use their platforms to create lasting impact in the communities they serve. If you're interested in marketing leadership, corporate philanthropy, sports partnerships, brand strategy, or community impact, this episode offers valuable perspective from one of the top marketing executives in the country.

A CMO Confidential Interview with Kim Whitler, professor at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, board member and former GM and CMO. Kim shares recent research which details why the largest and best companies often get dragged into conflicts they can't win, the three main forces of pressure and how they affect different management levels, and tips on picking the right company for you.Key discussion topics include:- The only stance agreed on by 100% of consumers- How to think about non-divisive activism (e.g. Dove's Real Beauty Campaign)- The danger of in-group biasTune in to hear why "You don't have to get engaged," and tips for getting an unbiased view.⏱️ Chapters01:12 Introducing Kim Whitler01:39 Why Corporate Activism Creates Business Risk02:51 Inside the “Executive Flip-Flop” Study04:11 Mapping the 3 Sources of Pressure on Leaders06:01 Internal vs External Pressure Dynamics11:19 The “Pressure Meter” Framework Explained12:33 Key Insight: Pressure Varies by Level (C-Suite vs Managers)14:18 The Myth of “You Must Take a Stand”17:09 Flawed Research Driving Activism Decisions21:19 When Brand Activism Works vs Backfires27:04 Choosing the Right Company as a Marketer31:06 AI Bias, Media Influence & Finding Truth38:11 Practical Advice: Avoiding In-Group Bias in Leadership43:25 Final Takeaways for MarketersThis episode is sponsored by Typeface - the agentic AI marketing platform that turns one idea into thousands of on-brand assets. Learn more: typeface.ai/cmo Subscribe for weekly episodes featuring world-class marketing leaders, board members, and C-Suite executives.#CMOConfidential, #MarketingLeadership, #BrandStrategy, #CorporateActivism, #MarketingStrategy, #CMO, #AIinMarketing, #ExecutiveLeadership, #BrandReputation, #ConsumerTrust, #DigitalMarketing, #MarketingInsights, #ThoughtLeadership, #BusinessStrategy, #CustomerCentricSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This Scott Floyd is a highly accomplished, senior-level marketing and entertainment executive with over 25 years of experience building global brands. He serves as the Chief Community and Performance Officer for the Acceleration Community of Companies (ACC), a fast-growing marketing collective that owns heavy-hitting agencies like MKG, DKC, and Pink Sparrow. Role & Impact: Floyd is responsible for driving revenue, overseeing massive M&A onboarding operations (such as reabsorbing legacy agencies like PMK Entertainment), and managing dedicated teams for tier-one global clients like Pepsi and T-Mobile.Prior Background: Before stepping into his executive role at ACC, he was the Senior Vice President of Brand Strategy and Operations for i.am+ (the tech startup founded by musician will.i.am), where he helped raise $117 million in funding. He also spent 20 years at the legendary Hollywood PR and marketing powerhouse PMK*BNC, serving as its Chief Growth Officer.

What makes people love brands like Apple and Chick-fil-A — while distrusting others like McDonald's?In this episode of The Franchise Advisory Board Podcast, Dave Hansen sits down with branding expert Todd Anthony to break down the psychology behind successful brands, franchise growth, customer trust, and audience alignment.They explore how branding impacts customer perception, why franchises must understand their target audience, and how companies can evolve their messaging without alienating loyal customers.First, a big thank you to our episode sponsor, ClientTether, for supporting the show and helping franchise brands build stronger, more connected relationships through smart automation.From Chick-fil-A and Apple to Quiznos, Toys R Us, Budweiser, and home service franchises, this conversation dives deep into real-world examples of branding wins, branding failures, and what businesses can learn from both.You'll learn:• Why every business has a brand — whether intentional or not• How customer perception shapes business growth• Why trust and consistency matter in franchising• How to know when your brand needs a refresh• The dangers of targeting the wrong audience• Why audience research is critical for scaling• How franchises can evolve their brand without losing identity• The role of differentiation in crowded markets• How strong branding creates emotional loyaltyTodd Anthony also shares practical strategies for:Brand positioningFranchise marketingAudience targetingBrand governanceCustomer trust buildingBrand consistencyRebranding strategiesMarket differentiationWhether you're a franchise owner, marketer, entrepreneur, or creative strategist, this episode is packed with actionable branding insights you can apply immediately.Special thanks to our guest Todd Anthony from Pinwheel Agency for joining the show and sharing his expertise.Connect with Todd:• Website: Pinwheel Agency• LinkedIn: Todd Anthony on LinkedInThanks for listening to the Franchise Advisory Board Podcast, where we explore the ideas, strategies, and people shaping the future of franchising.If you found today's episode valuable, please subscribe, rate, and share it with a fellow franchise leader. To learn more, connect with us on LinkedIn and Youtube.Until next time, stay curious, stay strategic, and keep building stronger franchise systems!

Have you ever wondered how storytelling can transform your brand and business? In this episode, David Hall sits down with Jake Isham, a filmmaker turned brand strategist and creative director, to explore the power of storytelling for entrepreneurs and business leaders. You'll hear about Jake Isham's journey from the stage and film school into the world of content creation, marketing, and personal branding.Learn practical tips on crafting compelling stories, building consistency in your content, and how to make your message stand out across multiple platforms. Key takeaways include the importance of finding your unique message, getting comfortable on camera no matter your personality type, and developing a content strategy that works for you. Whether you're looking to scale your brand, find your voice, or simply create more engaging content, this episode provides actionable advice and real-world insights.Tune in for strategies to develop your own style, increase your visibility, and create growth through storytelling — and be strong.Episode Link: QuietandStrong.com/276- - -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.Connect wtih Jake:Website | LinkedIn | InstagramSend us Fan MailSupport the show- - -Contact the Host of the Quiet and Strong Podcast:David HallAuthor, Speaker, Educator, Podcasterquietandstrong.comGobio.link/quietandstrongdavid [at] quietandstrong.comNOTE: This post may contain affiliate links. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no extra cost to you.Take the FREE Personality Assessment: Typefinder Personality AssessmentFollow David on your favorite social platform:Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn | Youtube Get David's book:Minding Your Time: Time Management, Productivity, and Success, Especially for IntrovertsGet Quiet & Strong Merchandise

In this episode of The Level Up Podcast w/ Paul Alex, we break down what it really takes to build a brand that competitors can't ignore. Most entrepreneurs think branding is about having the cleanest logo, the best website, or the flashiest content. But real branding goes much deeper than that. A powerful brand is built on trust, consistency, reputation, and results. Paul explains why competitors can copy your offer, your pricing, and even your marketing style, but they can't copy your story, your discipline, your customer experience, or the trust you've built over time. When your brand becomes known for delivering results, people stop comparing you to everyone else. They start seeing you as the standard. In this episode, you'll learn: Why trust is the real foundation of a powerful brand How consistency builds authority in your market Why competitors can copy your offer but never your reputation How every customer interaction either builds or breaks your name Why the strongest brands never stop improving The brands that make competitors nervous are not the ones chasing attention. They are the ones that show up every day, deliver real value, and build a reputation that speaks louder than any ad ever could. Your reputation is your greatest marketing asset. Protect it. Build it. And become the brand everyone else is trying to catch. Your Network is your NETWORTH! Make sure to add me on all SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS: Instagram: ⁠https://jo.my/paulalex2024⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://jo.my/fbpaulalex2024⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGhDAD1JyGGzSQUPD9lc9HQ⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://jo.my/inpaulalex2024⁠ Looking for a secondary source of income or want to become an entrepreneur? Check out one of my companies below to see if we can help you:

If you own a business (or want to soon), one of the most important things you can do is intentionally start building a brand. Today I share tips from Seth Godin's books and my 25 years experience as a business owner to help you build a brand worth talking about. READ MORE HERE

In Episode #91, Ross is joined by Drew Brucker, AI pioneer and marketing leader. Drew Brucker is an expert in building AI-driven visual and written identities, helping brands turn AI into a true brand asset that amplifies distinctiveness instead of erasing it. With a background in SaaS marketing and a focus on custom “ghost systems,” he helps companies move from manual execution to strategic curation without losing their creative edge. Ross and Drew discuss why most brands sound the same when using AI, how to avoid the generic trap, and the importance of front-loading deep context to build systems that protect and amplify what makes your brand unique. Find show notes and episode highlights at [https://nwrk.co/_] To listen to previous episodes go to https://nwrk.co/omq.If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review and share it with your friends.

We're in London at the INTA 2026 Annual Meeting, but we're not doing a standard conference recap. We wanted to show how intellectual property work can be creative, inventive, and even fun, so we built THE INVENTIVE MINDSET GAME, a scenario game, and handed real IP lawyers a stack of tricky client prompts.Each prompt forces a choice: do you follow the client's exact instructions, take an inventive counseling path, bring in an AI assist tool, or throw a curveball and plan for the worst-case scenario. From a smart home invention to a viral character and an influencer launching a skincare line, we dig into the practical decisions behind patent strategy, trademark protection, and copyright, including how to think about prior art, claim scope, brand control, and what “commercialization” actually demands.We also talk about the unglamorous but critical details that can make or break an IP strategy: picking the right trademark classes, avoiding coverage that doesn't match the business, and sequencing filings when budgets are tight. If you're a founder, creator, in-house counsel, or just curious about how IP law works in the real world, you'll leave with clearer mental models and sharper questions to ask before you file anything.Subscribe for more stories and practical IP insights, share this with a friend building a brand, and leave a review if the game format helped you think differently about IP. What would you choose first: safe, inventive, AI-assisted, or curveball?Send us Fan MailCheck out "Protection for the Inventive Mind" – available now on Amazon in print and Kindle formats.The views and opinions expressed (by the host and guest(s)) in this podcast are strictly their own and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of the entities with which they may be affiliated. This podcast should in no way be construed as promoting or criticizing any particular government policy, institutional position, private interest or commercial entity. Any content provided is for informational and educational purposes only.

In this episode of Atlanta Business Radio, Lee Kantor interviews Chuck Butler, founder of Dalton Distillery and Responsibly Brands. Chuck shares how he launched his distillery in 2013 while working in law enforcement, driven by a desire for more family time. He discusses pivoting from moonshine to vodka, navigating Georgia’s three-tier distribution system, and winning […]

Recorded live at SocialNext: Ottawa 2026, Daniel Francavilla, brand and content strategist and founder of The Good Growth Company, joins host Alex to explore what it really takes to build trust in the nonprofit and public sector space.The Good Growth Company supports nonprofits, social purpose organizations, and governments with training and facilitation across marketing, communications, leadership, and fundraising. Daniel also teaches at OCAD University and George Brown College.Daniel breaks down why a brand-first approach matters more than ever, how misinformation and AI are reshaping the way organizations need to think about their reputation, what dignity-first storytelling actually looks like in practice, and why retention beats constant acquisition every time.Because in a world full of AI-generated content and eroding trust, the organizations that show the real people behind their work will always stand out.Thanks to our Editors, Producers, and Guest Host from Phantom Productions and WebMarketers.This episode was recorded live at the Ottawa Conference and Events Centre during SocialNext: Ottawa 2026, Canada's leading conference dedicated to nonprofit and public sector marketers.SocialNext is part of the SocialNext series, Canada's leading platform for marketing conferences, media, and community.

AI is in the midst of changing the landscape of business, careers and humanity as a whole. And if you're like most creative professionals or business owners, you're probably feeling a mix of curiosity, overwhelm, and maybe even a little fear.In this episode, I sit down with certified AI consultant Mitali Deypurkaystha to cut through the noise and get practical. We talk about what's really happening in the AI landscape, why most businesses are getting it wrong, and how you can approach AI in a way that actually drives results without chasing shiny objects.Mitali shares a grounded, human-first approach to AI adoption. Instead of starting with tools, she explains why you should start with your business bottlenecks. We also dive into how poor data can completely derail AI initiatives, what “agents” actually are (without the hype), and how creative professionals can stay relevant and valuable in an AI-driven world.We also explore her Human First Responsible AI Pledge, a framework designed to help businesses implement AI ethically and responsibly.If you're trying to figure out how AI fits into your business or career, this conversation will help you get out of overwhelm and into clarity.What We CoverWhy most people feel behind with AI and why that's not trueWhy most AI pilots fail and how to avoid the same mistakesHow to cut through AI overwhelm by focusing on business bottlenecks firstWhy AI is not a replacement for creative professionals, but a multiplierThe hidden danger of bad data and how it leads to poor AI resultsA simple, practical breakdown of what AI agents are and how they workWhy human skills and real conversations are becoming more valuable, not lessKey TakeawaysStart with problems, not tools. AI should solve bottlenecks, not create new ones.Clean, structured data is the foundation of any successful AI implementation.Creative professionals have an advantage. Better inputs lead to exponentially better outputs.AI agents are not magic. They are layered automation with increasing levels of autonomy.Human connection is becoming a competitive advantage in an AI-driven world.Ethical AI use is not optional. It's a business necessity.Resources & LinksHuman First Responsible AI Pledgehttps://humanfirstresponsibleaipledge.orgMitali Deypurkaystha / Impact Iconhttps://impacticon.aiMitali Deypurkaystha on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mitalidey/Tools MentionedClaude (Anthropic)ChatGPTGeminiSaneBoxAgentic browsersAI isn't the thing that's going to replace you. But someone who knows how to use it well might.The real opportunity right now is not to chase every new tool, but to think more clearly, work more strategically, and stay deeply human in how you show up.____________________________________WEBSITEhttps://www.philipvandusen.comBRAND•MUSE NEWSLETTER  https://www.philipvandusen.com/museCREATIVE PROFESSIONAL COACHINGhttps://philipvandusen.com/oneononeYOUTUBEhttps://www.youtube.com/philipvandusenBRAND DESIGN MASTERS PODCAST https://podcast.branddesignmasters.com/subscribeBRAND STRATEGY 101 COURSEhttps://philipvandusen.com/bs101LINKEDINhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/philipvandusen/THREADShttps://www.threads.net/@philipvandusen FACEBOOKhttps://www.facebook.com/philipvandusen.agency/____________________________________AFFILIATE PARTNERS:BRING YOUR OWN LAPTOP: Adobe Training with Daniel Scotthttps://www.byol.me/philip  GO HIGHLEVEL: All-in-One CRMhttps://www.gohighlevel.com/philipvandusenTUBEBUDDY: The best YouTube pluginhttps://www.tubebuddy.com/philipvandusen____________________________Philip VanDusen is a branding consultant based in New York. A highly accomplished creative executive and expert in brand strategy, graphic design, marketing and creative management, Philip provides design, branding, marketing, career and business advice to creative professionals, entrepreneurs and companies on building successful brands for themselves and the clients and customers they serve.

A rare behind-the-scenes roundtable with four of the UK's most exciting challenger brand founders — Toby Hopkinson of All Things Butter, Jack Scott of DASH Water, Imme Ermgassen of Botivo, and Florence Cherruault of The Pickle House — filmed live at Strakers.Dan digs into the messy, brilliant reality of building modern food and drink brands: when to stay focused, when to diversify, how to win retail listings, why hospitality can build cultural credibility, and what happens when your “side idea” suddenly becomes 70% of the business.From cottage cheese and pickle juice to Victoria Beckham, Ottolenghi, Coco de Mer, Waitrose, United Airlines, New York launches, supermarket mistakes, brand copycats, and the power of packaging — this is a sharp, funny, honest conversation about growth, taste, culture, and the brutal lessons founders only learn by getting things wrong.ON THE MENU:• Cottage cheese becoming 70% of All Things Butter• DASH's failed mixer launch• Pickle House's move from cocktails to wellness• Pickle juice for muscle cramps• Botivo's collaborations with Ottolenghi and Coco de Mer• Fashion, food, drink, and culture-led brand building• Victoria Beckham drinking DASH• Using restaurants to build product credibility• Hospitality vs grocery retail• Launching into Waitrose• Why premium venues create brand halo• Taste as the real reason people repurchase• Product iteration vs marketing spend• “Cost of goods is marketing”• Polarising products and passionate fans• One-star reviews and super-tasters• Hiring senior leaders• Difficult conversations with retailers and manufacturers• When manufacturers copy your product• Why brand is a moat• Packaging, texture, and supermarket shelf appeal• Creating ritual in non-alcoholic drinks• Functional drinks, CBD, THC, caffeine, and nootropics• Saying no to shiny opportunities• International expansion mistakes• Launching in the US• Tariffs, middlemen, and legal risk in America• United Airlines as a major Pickle House opportunity• Scaling back international markets• Why some brands travel better than others ============================================== ♨️Still bloody HUNGRY? Course ya are. Each week I spend 15 hours writing my newsletter. It'll take you 5 mins to read. Full of wisdom from the biggest names in food and drink. Subscribe here - https://hungryfeast.beehiiv.com/

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Stacey Gholar.

Most people are out here trying to build a brand before they even understand what one is. And then they wonder why it's not working. Today we're going back to basics — and I promise it's going to change how you see your business and your personal brand. READ MORE HERE

In this Season 2 finale of Building Unbreakable Brands, Meghan Lynch unpacks a question she hears from family business leaders across industries: does calling your company “family-owned” help or hurt your growth? Drawing on real client experience and market insight, Meghan explores how to determine whether “family-owned” is a liability, a differentiator, or something more strategic altogether—and how to make that call with clarity and confidence.Key Topics DiscussedExamine the real question behind “family-owned” positioning and why it often signals a deeper identity shift during periods of changeAnalyze how brand signals (not just messaging) shape perception, including how packaging, visuals, and presentation can unintentionally communicate “small”Understand when “family-owned” becomes a competitive advantage, especially in industries shaped by consolidation and loss of personal connectionNavigate the tension between scaling and authenticity without losing the qualities that built trust in the first placeReground your brand in what remains true when legacy claims or historical messaging no longer fully applyRecognize transition moments as strategic inflection points, where clarity around identity becomes critical to sustained growth  What separates family businesses that come out of transition stronger than they went in?It's not a perfect plan or a clean handoff. It's a set of practices, and the leaders who understand them have a real advantage.We spent years working with and studying the leaders who got it right. Here's what we found:Building Unbreakable Brands: 6 Practices of Family Businesses that EndureSix practices, delivered over 18 days.Sign up for the series here.Connect with Meghan Lynch on LinkedInBuilding Unbreakable Brands is produced by Six-Point Strategy

If your patient acquisition strategy depends too heavily on paid media, this episode explains why brand trust is now the real growth lever. On this episode of Ignite, Ashley Petrochenko, Cardinal's VP of Brand Marketing, sits down with Courtney Taylor, Senior Director of Brand Marketing at PDS Health, to discuss how one of the nation's largest healthcare organizations is using brand strategy to stand out in a crowded, low-trust market. They break down how clearer messaging, smarter storytelling, and connected consumer experiences can improve performance marketing efficiency and long-term patient loyalty. For healthcare marketers facing rising costs and shrinking attention spans, this shift is critical. You will learn: Why trust is becoming the biggest driver of patient conversion How stronger branding reduces lower-funnel acquisition pressure Ways to make complex healthcare messages simple and human How partnerships and storytelling expand reach beyond paid ads If you want a smarter patient growth strategy that doesn't rely on chasing clicks, this is the episode to listen to next. RELATED RESOURCES Connect with Courtney - https://www.linkedin.com/in/courtneyjotaylor/ How to Build a Full-Funnel Healthcare Marketing Strategy -  https://www.cardinaldigitalmarketing.com/healthcare-resources/blog/healthcare-full-funnel-marketing-strategy/ Marketing + Operations: Why Total Alignment is Vital to Growth - https://www.cardinaldigitalmarketing.com/healthcare-resources/blog/healthcare-marketing-operations-alignment/ What is a Patient Journey? Examples to Grow Your Practice  - https://www.cardinaldigitalmarketing.com/healthcare-resources/blog/what-is-a-patient-journey-grow-your-practice/ DSO Marketing: Branded House vs. House of Brands  - https://www.cardinaldigitalmarketing.com/healthcare-resources/blog/dso-marketing-branded-house-vs-house-of-brands/

We're joined by Daniel Frankavilla, an experienced brand strategist and entrepreneur who excels at turning purpose into real-world traction. His journey, from founding a nonprofit organization at 17 to building and selling a creative agency, showcases his deep understanding of marketing and business. Daniel's ventures consistently help others achieve tangible results, embodying the spirit of effective entrepreneurship and personal branding. Connect with me on: All my links Become a guest Sign up for Riverside Get Descript   #DigitalMarketing #Branding #PersonalBranding #MarketingInsights #SocialMediaStrategy Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Hilary Laffer and Amy Swift Crosby have worked together as brand strategists since 2005. Together (and separately) they have helped hundreds (thousands?) of businesses and founders distill and articulate their mission, vision and positioning, in industries ranging from consumer products, hospitality, restaurant, retail, beauty, wellness, education and real estate – as well as product and service companies who are solely B to B. Hilary is the principal of Part & Parcel, a full-service creative agency based in Los Angeles. Amy is a copy writer and strategist who divides her time between Los Angeles and an undisclosed seaside village in Massachusetts. Here's what you'll learn: What Branding Actually Is (And Isn't) Why branding is not just logos, colors, or taglines. The concept of "it's giving…" - your brand is the feeling people get from every interaction. How small details (website, phone calls, environment, communication) shape perception. The "Net Effect" of Your Brand How customers make decisions based on a cumulative gut feeling, not one single factor. Why inconsistent messaging creates doubt—even if your service is excellent. Real-world examples of brands losing trust due to chaotic or misaligned experiences. Common Branding Mistakes Business Owners Make Thinking branding is only visual design instead of full experience. Copying marketing tactics (social media, newsletters, ads) without strategy. Trying to appeal to "everyone" instead of defining a clear audience. Why Most Businesses Don't Know Their Ideal Client The danger of not being able to clearly explain who you serve and what problems you solve. How lack of clarity kills referrals, networking opportunities, and conversions. Why "everyone is my client" = no one is your client. How to Improve Your Brand Without a Big Budget Simple ways to audit your brand: website, client touchpoints, communication, environment. How small changes (and what those changes are) can dramatically improve perception. Why alignment across all touchpoints matters more than perfection. Brand Strategy as a Business Growth Tool How a strong brand acts as a magnet, not a megaphone. The hidden cost of a weak or unclear brand (missed partnerships, lost opportunities). Using your brand as a filter for decisions: marketing, partnerships, messaging. Final Takeaways for Business Owners Branding is happening whether you control it or not. Clarity beats complexity... know who you serve and what you stand for. You don't need to do everything, you need to do the right things consistently. Connect With Hilary & Amy Website | Instagram

What does it really mean to find your place in a family business? In this episode, Meghan Lynch sits down with Torri Hawley, Chief Learning Officer at Tamarind Learning and a member of a seventh-generation family enterprise, to unpack a challenge many rising gen leaders face: being included without being clear on their role. Drawing from her own experience, Torri shares why simply teaching financials doesn't solve the problem. You can understand the numbers and still feel lost, because the real question isn't “Do I get this?” it's “Where do I fit, and what's expected of me?” The conversation explores how identity, context, and role clarity shape confidence over time, and why that shift matters for anyone stepping into ownership, whether formally or informally.Key Topics DiscussedWhy understanding the numbers doesn't automatically build confidence or readiness  How unclear roles create tension and leave rising gen members unsure where they fit  Why building an identity outside the family business strengthens leadership inside it  How the right language and context help turn passive involvement into real participation Connect with Torri on LinkedInConnect with Meghan Lynch on LinkedInBuilding Unbreakable Brands is produced by Six-Point Strategy

Trust isn't just a feel-good metric. According to an IPA Effectiveness Data Bank analysis of over 800 campaigns, 93% of campaigns that drive very large trust gains also deliver at least one major business effect. This week, Elena and Rob are joined by Catrina McAuliffe, SVP of Brand Strategy at Marketing Architects, to dig into what brand trust really means, how to measure it without turning your brand tracker into a "vibes recital," and what marketers get wrong when they try to advertise their way out of a trust deficit. Topics covered:[01:45] IPA data: trust-building campaigns and business impact[03:00] What a genuinely good brand measurement system looks like[06:00] Why brand health trackers become "vibes recitals"[09:00] How to measure trust in two layers — what people say and what they'll forgive[13:00] How newer brands vs. comeback brands should approach trust differently[18:00] TV as a trust legitimizer and amplifier[21:00] Can you advertise your way to trust?To learn more, visit marketingarchitects.com/podcast or subscribe to our newsletter at marketingarchitects.com/newsletter. Resources: 2024 MarketingWeek ArticleGet more research-backed marketing strategies by subscribing to The Marketing Architects on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Welcome to The Profit Talk! In this show, we're going to help you explore strategies to help you maximize profits in your business while scaling and creating the lifestyle that you want as an entrepreneur. I am your host, Susanne Mariga! I'm a CPA, a Fractional CFO, and a Certified Profit First Professional Mastery Level providing tax strategies to 7 and 8-figure entrepreneurs. Let's dive into strategies to maximize profits in your business! In this episode of The Profit Talk Show, host Susanne Mariga welcomes Asia Dore, brand strategist and business growth expert, to discuss how entrepreneurs can build brands that stand out in today's crowded marketplace. This conversation is especially valuable for business owners who want to create stronger visibility, attract ideal clients, and grow with intentional messaging. Together, we explore Asia's five-step branding framework, the common mistakes entrepreneurs make when building a brand, and how to combine strategy with personality to create trust and recognition. Asia shares practical advice on clarifying your message, identifying your ideal audience, and choosing marketing methods that align with your strengths. This episode is packed with actionable insights for entrepreneurs ready to elevate their brand presence and profits. What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ The Five-Step Branding Process – How to clearly define what your business does and communicate it effectively. ✅ Know Your Ideal Client – Why understanding your audience's motivations is essential for attracting the right customers. ✅ Differentiate Your Offers – How to position your products and services so buyers understand why you are different. ✅ Purpose Beyond Revenue – Why communicating the deeper impact of your work builds stronger brand loyalty. ✅ Branding Risks to Avoid – The dangers of being too rigid or having no strategy at all. ✅ Strategy + Personality – Why combining consistency with authenticity creates memorable brands. ✅ Market Visibility – How clarity, consistency, and choosing the right platforms help you stand out. Memorable Quotes:

What happens when the product that made you famous starts holding you back? Kevin Gould co-founded Glamnetic in 2019 with Ann McFerran, launching a magnetic eyelash brand that exploded from $1 million to $50 million in revenue in just one year — fueled by a great product, smart growth marketing, and the COVID-era boom in DIY beauty. But when the tailwinds reversed — iOS 14 updates sent acquisition costs soaring, the lash category contracted, and revenue dipped 25% — Kevin faced a make-or-break decision. Rather than doubling down on what was declining, he pivoted the entire business into press-on nails, a category still in its infancy. Today, Glamnetic is one of the largest press-on nail brands in the world, doing over $100 million a year. In this episode, Kevin gets real about the unglamorous side of hypergrowth: the cash flow crunches that come with scaling too fast, the inventory mistakes that haunt you, and the emotional toll of watching revenue fall when you expected it to double. He shares how he and his team navigated the pivot, why community and brand affinity will always outlast paid acquisition, and why the best advice he can give founders is: don't grow too fast. You'll learn: Why going from $1M to $50M overnight nearly broke the business How to manage cash flow and inventory when you're self-funded The marketing mix that built a real brand — not just an ad machine Why TikTok Shop is the biggest arbitrage opportunity right now How a 40,000-member Facebook community doubles as a product development engine The one hire every founder should prioritize early on What it really takes — personally and professionally — to turn a pivot into a $100M business Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

**About this episode** What if everything you've been spending on digital marketing isn't an investment — but a tax? Nick Richtsmeier, founder of CultureCraft, joins Marco Ciappelli for a Brand Highlight that cuts straight to the root of why so many organizations feel stuck: not a marketing problem, but an alignment problem. Nick introduces the concept of the Silicon Valley tax — the ongoing cost most organizations pay to platforms that have no real incentive to show them what's working. He challenges the "attention economy" framing, arguing that what's actually being bought and sold is addictive behavior engineered by the algorithm. And he offers a different path: building trust in a humanist way, grounded in real alignment across culture, organizational design, positioning, point of view, and core community. The result is a conversation about brands — but really about integrity. About whether what an organization says and what it does are actually the same thing. And about why asking marketing to be the "sin eater" for every internal dysfunction is a strategy that will always come up short. **Connect with Nick Richtsmeier** [Nick Richtsmeier on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickrichtsmeier/) [CultureCraft](http://www.culturecraft.com) [CultureCraft on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/company/culturecraftconsulting/) **Connect with Marco & Studio C60** [Marco Ciappelli on LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/marco-ciappelli) [Studio C60](https://www.studioc60.com) [ITSPmagazine](https://www.itspmagazine.com) **Keywords** brand strategy, organizational culture, trust building, marketing strategy, CultureCraft, Nick Richtsmeier, Silicon Valley tax, attention economy, algorithmic economy, brand alignment, digital marketing, humanist branding, organizational design, Trust Made Growth, sin eater marketing, brand highlight, Studio C60, ITSPmagazine, Marco Ciappelli **Want to tell your story?** [Full Length Brand Story] (https://www.studioc60.com/content-creation#full) |  [Brand Spotlight Story](https://www.studioc60.com/content-creation#spotlight) |  [Brand Highlight Story](https://www.studioc60.com/content-creation#highlight) This is a Brand Highlight — a ~5 min intro conversation spotlighting the guest and their company.  Learn more: [studioc60.com/creation#highlight](https://www.studioc60.com/creation#highlight) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.