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What separates the brands that break through from the ones that get left behind? At BevNET Live NYC 2026, founders, retailers, and investors pointed to a common answer: clarity. In this episode, recorded live from the event, the hosts recap key takeaways from day one, including emerging trends in ingestible beauty and why a crystal-clear value proposition is more important than ever. Show notes: 0:20: In The Knick Of Time. Six From The Show'. Next 'Gen Drinks. Clearly Important. – Recorded live on day two of BevNET Live NYC 2026, Ray, John and Melissa reflect on highlights from the event, including strong attendance, engaging networking, and the excitement of the New Beverage Showdown final round, featuring six emerging brands spanning THC beverages, protein water, coffee-cacao blends, non-alcoholic cocktails, juice, and craft soda. The conversation also explores key industry trends discussed at the conference, including the continued rise of protein, creatine, collagen, and ingestible beauty products, as well as what retailers like Whole Foods, Walmart, Wegmans, and The Vitamin Shoppe are looking for in emerging brands. The hosts share insights from presentations by industry leaders including Athletic Brewing co-founder Bill Shufelt and Bai founder Ben Weiss, emphasizing the importance of clear value propositions, consumer engagement, and innovation. The episode closes with gratitude for attendees and an invitation to future BevNET Live events and Taste Radio meetups. Brands in this episode: Dad Grass, Cabu Latte, Dirty Virgo, Lyflo, Umma Juice, Brause, Solstice, Athletic Brewing, Bai, Crooked Pop
Send us Fan MailAs one of the pioneers of loyalty and rewards programs, the airline industry has long known the value these programs bring when it comes to customer engagement and retention. But in the aftermath of the Covid-19 pandemic—which ground travel to a halt—airline rewards programs became arguably more important than ever, as airlines across the world sought to get people flying again. But according to Byron Kelly, Director of Loyalty at WestJet, the Canadian airline was getting more traction out of its WestJet RBC Mastercard, its co-brand credit card with Royal Bank of Canada, for purchases made on everything outside of travel. “There were months where airlines were getting more money in cash receipts from their co-brand credit card spend than they were in ticket sales because nobody was buying tickets,” he said. “So, COVID wasn't a blessing for anyone but in some ways for loyalty programs it's shined a bit of a spotlight on the value, and I think helped accelerate acceptance of the value of the programs in some ways coming out of COVID.”
#937 What happens when a side project in your garage turns into a multi-million dollar business? In this episode, host Kirsten Tyrrel sits down with Mike Yarbrough, co-founder of Rustic & Main, to share how he and his wife turned handmade wooden wedding bands into a fast-growing jewelry brand with nearly 40 employees and a retail storefront in the childhood home of country star Luke Combs. Mike opens up about walking away from his six-figure IT job, scaling production beyond the garage, and how they've built a company culture that still feels like family while continuing to expand. He also talks about standing out in a crowded industry, navigating major marketing shifts, and why storytelling and sentimentality are the keys to creating products people truly cherish. Whether you're a maker, dreamer, or entrepreneur ready to grow, this episode is packed with lessons on scaling a handmade product business the right way! (Original Air Date - 10/3/25) What we discuss with Mike: + Garage project to full business + Handmade wooden wedding bands + Quit six-figure IT job + Scaling from Etsy to Shopify + Storytelling in marketing + Pivot after ad platform changes + Building strong company culture + Opening retail in Luke Combs' home + Expanding beyond rings + Vision for long-term growth Thank you, Mike! Check out Rustic & Main at RusticandMain.com. Watch the video podcast of this episode! To get access to our FREE Business Training course go to MillionaireUniversity.com/training. To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit millionaireuniversity.com/sponsors. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Podcast: PrOTect It All (LS 27 · TOP 10% what is this?)Episode: Breaking Into Cybersecurity: Soft Skills, Networking & Standing Out in a Crowded MarketPub date: 2026-06-01Get Podcast Transcript →powered by Listen411 - fast audio-to-text and summarizationTechnical skills might get your attention - but soft skills build cybersecurity careers. In this episode of Protect It All, host Aaron Crow sits down with technology leader and mentor Robert Whetstine for a candid conversation about what it really takes to succeed in today's cybersecurity job market. As AI reshapes hiring, the market becomes more crowded, and professionals struggle to stand out, Aaron and Robert explore the overlooked factors that often determine long-term success: adaptability, networking, authenticity, and communication. This episode goes beyond résumés and certifications to focus on the human side of career growth. You'll learn: Why soft skills matter as much as technical ability in cybersecurity How networking and community create real career opportunities The impact of AI and oversaturation on the cybersecurity job market How to stand out without relying only on certifications Why adaptability and continuous learning are critical for long-term success Lessons on leadership, resilience, and professional growth from decades in tech Whether you're breaking into cybersecurity, navigating a career transition, or trying to stay relevant in a fast-changing industry, this episode delivers practical advice and honest insights for building a sustainable and rewarding career. Tune in to learn why relationships, mindset, and adaptability are becoming the true differentiators in cybersecurity - only on Protect It All. Key Moments: 07:31 Developing essential soft skills 11:44 Embracing leadership and failure 16:14 Evaluating candidates for fit 22:00 Building a career through networking 31:16 Taking risks and finding support 35:16 The importance of empathetic leadership 38:34 Networking for job opportunities 47:28 Discussing layoffs for AI investment 50:07 Concerns about infrastructure cost 53:40 Entering the tech industry About the guest : Rob Whetstine (#BowTieSecurityGuy) has been in the technology and Cyber Security space for the last two decades. Known for the Mentoring, Making and of course his nerdy bowties. Born with an obsession for problem-solving, Rob's journey into the world of technology began at a young age, where he spent countless hours tinkering with computers found in the trash. When he was laid off a year ago from Disney after almost 20 years of service. He made it his mission to help people anyway he could. Those who were struggling in this job market and people new to Cyber. He started sharing videos on LinkedIn about his journey and sharing leadership stories. He has now started a podcast and mentors people all over the world. How to connect Rob : LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/bowtiesecurityguy/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@bowtiesecurityguy Connect With Aaron Crow: Website: www.corvosec.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronccrow Learn more about PrOTect IT All: Email: info@protectitall.co Website: https://protectitall.co/ X: https://twitter.com/protectitall YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@PrOTectITAll FaceBook: https://facebook.com/protectitallpodcast To be a guest or suggest a guest/episode, please email us at info@protectitall.co Please leave us a review on Apple/Spotify Podcasts: Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/protect-it-all/id1727211124 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1Vvi0euj3rE8xObK0yvYi4The podcast and artwork embedded on this page are from Aaron Crow, which is the property of its owner and not affiliated with or endorsed by Listen Notes, Inc.
Despite his high intelligence, George Barrios nearly flunked out of both high school and college, drifting without discipline or direction. Realizing talent alone wouldn't build the future he wanted, he cleaned up his act, became obsessive about preparation, and built a reputation for solving hard problems others avoided. That approach helped him rise through HBO and Time Warner before transforming WWE into a global media powerhouse. In this episode, George joins Ilana to share the habits that accelerated his career, the tough leadership decisions behind WWE's growth, and the mindset shifts that helped him reinvent himself under pressure. George Barrios is the former Co-President and CFO of WWE, where he helped transform the company into a global entertainment business. He is the founder of ISOS Capital, an investment and advisory firm focused on sports, media, and technology. In this episode, Ilana and George will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (08:48) When Talent Turned Into Self-Sabotage (13:12) The Turning Point: Meeting His Wife at UConn (15:49) Fake It Till You Make It: Learning on the Job (23:17) Creating Opportunities After Rejection (33:31) Driving Digital Growth at The New York Times (39:38) Making Painful Decisions Under Pressure (44:14) Transforming WWE into a Global Media Business (50:35) The Fallout With Vince McMahon and WWE Exit (59:27) Writing His Book and Sharing Hard Lessons (01:05:52) Q&A: How Do I Open Doors in a Crowded Market? George Barrios is a former Fortune 500 executive and the founder of ISOS Capital, an investment firm focused on global opportunities in sports, media, and technology. He previously served as Co-President and CFO of WWE and held leadership roles at The New York Times, HBO, and Praxair, building a track record in strategy, operations, and financial leadership. His new book, Sometimes Wrong but Never in Doubt, shares the lessons behind his unconventional path to success. Connect with George: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/georgebarrios/ Resources Mentioned: George's Book, Sometimes Wrong but Never in Doubt: How a Cuban Kid from Queens Transformed WWE: https://www.amazon.com/Sometimes-Wrong-but-Never-Doubt-ebook/dp/B0G4N4T9XV The World is Flat: The Globalized World in the Twenty-First Century by Thomas Friedman: https://www.amazon.in/dp/0141034890 Tony Khan: Building AEW into a Billion-Dollar Brand and Competing with Wrestling Giants: www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tqqfg-ysj0M Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW WAY for professionals to fast-track their careers and leap to bigger opportunities. Check out our free training today at https://bit.ly/leap--free-training
In this episode of The Produce Moms Podcast, host Lori Taylor continues the 2026 Women's Roundtable series with guests Jennie Coleman of Equifruit and Erica Manfre of South Mill Champs. The conversation explores the concept of the attention economy and its growing influence on the fresh produce industry.
Still one of my favorite interviews to date, so we're doing a throwback. Enjoy!
Michael Glover went from Lehman Brothers to an #entrepreneur of one of Long Island's new showcase #pickleball clubs. He'd be the first to tell you he had no idea what he was doing when he started.In this episode, we talk about how Michael stumbled into pickleball, why he jumped into a second, bigger facility even as competition was exploding, and what actually keeps people coming back to his club even with a flood of new facilities on Long Island. We also get into why this game caught fire the way it did, what the banger vs. dinker debate says about where pickleball is heading, and why the rating system drives people crazy. Michael has great insights and advice on how to keep Pickleball sane and fun. For existing and would-be entrepreneurs, the best part of this conversation is what Michael says is the only way you keep customers coming back. Spoiler-alert, it has nothing to do with marketing, sponsors or big events.
The occasions for non-alcoholic beer are ever expanding, but so, too, is the competition. Best Day Brewing founder Tate Huffard has spent the last five years working to build a brand to last. We dig into what's been the secret sauce to their growth, from the brewing process to the retail shelf, and what has helped them to stand out in an ever-crowded field.We cover Tate's surf-culture origin story behind BDB, how the consumer occasion for NA beer has shifted since 2021, and where Tate sees the brand fitting in a market that's increasingly defined by wellness and fitness positioning, or celebrity fame.Key Topics:The Founder Story: Why a group of surfers missing morning sessions became the unlikely starting point for one of the country's few NA-only craft breweries with national distribution.The Evolving Occasion: How and where people are actually reaching for NA beer in 2026, and why the answer might surprise you.Crowded Market, Distinct Identity: With fitness brands and celebrity labels flooding the space, where does Best Day's long-term positioning actually live?Cracking Retail and Hospitality: The misconceptions distributors still hold, and how close we really are to seeing significant NA variety on restaurant menus.What's Next: After the launch of Wild American Pilsner, what's ahead for this Sausalito-based brand?Mentioned in this episode:Best Day BrewingWe'd love your feedback!
Step into Episode 211 of On The Delo as Delo sits down with Ted Golden — Arizona craft beer veteran, former Four Peaks sales director, and founder of AZ Locale Brewing — for a wide-open conversation about what it really takes to leave a 25-year career and bet on yourself. From skateboarding in Southern California and busing tables at a Manhattan Beach boutique hotel to building one of Arizona's most exciting independent beer brands with his wife Stephanie, Ted brings the kind of energy, humor, and hard-won wisdom that makes this one impossible to put down.Ted pulls back the curtain on how a rivalry with San Tan's Anthony Kanekia turned into the opportunity that launched AZ Locale, why he designed every beer at 4.8% ABV (a nod to Arizona being the 48th state), and what it looks like to grind 20 accounts a day as both the owner and the salesperson. Delo and Ted also dig into the real philosophy behind ethical selling, how Ted navigated self-distribution before landing statewide partners including Crescent Crown, and what brewing brands across Arizona need to hear about protecting their backyard before chasing national expansion.If you love craft beer, entrepreneurship, or just a great origin story rooted in Arizona pride, this episode delivers.Chapter Guide (Timestamps):(0:00 - 1:30) Freestyle Intro, Ted's Skateboard Tap Handle, and Episode 211 Kickoff(1:31 - 4:44) Running a Business With Your Spouse and Experiencing Arizona Together(4:45 - 7:08) Tommy Boy Sales Philosophy, Joe Dirt, and Taking the Entrepreneurial Leap(7:09 - 10:33) Ted's Origin Story: Southern California, Alpha Beta, Haagen-Dazs, and Barnaby's Hotel(10:34 - 13:05) 22 Years at Four Peaks: Growth, Sales Director, and the Identity of a Brand(13:06 - 16:22) The AZ Locale Birth Story: San Tan's Anthony Kanekia and the Deal That Started It All(16:23 - 18:27) Designing Beer With a Sales Mindset: 4.8% ABV, Food Pairings, and Differentiating in a Crowded Market(18:28 - 21:24) Self-Distribution Hustle: Honda Ridgeline, 100 Draft Accounts, and the Move to Crescent Crown(21:25 - 27:16) Statewide Distribution, Forecasting Logistics, and Always Reinvesting in Your Brand(27:17 - 31:32) The Beer Lineup: Toasty, Cactus Bird, Drafternoon, and What's Coming Next(31:33 - 36:36) Daily Habits, Gym Routines, and Rapid-Fire Questions With "TheOG" Ted Golden(36:37 - 40:36) Arizona Pride, Staying Local, and Where to Find AZ Locale Beer Right Now(40:37 - 42:33) Where to Find Ted, Closing Thoughts, and Delo's Send-Off
Tyler Ashley, Head of Business Development at McNally Capital, shares the unconventional path that shaped his approach to private equity. From early global experiences to building a career in deal sourcing and relationships. He explains how McNally's family-backed roots influence its focus on founder-led businesses, and how its "Atlas" framework drives disciplined value creation across the portfolio. Tyler also breaks down the growing importance of business development in an increasingly crowded market, where strategy, specialization, and authentic relationships win deals. This is a practical conversation on sourcing, differentiation, and building durable networks in modern private equity—press play. Episode Highlights 2:20 - From Wyoming ranch to Argentina: a nontraditional start that shaped his career 7:09 - Why unique life experiences create an edge in private equity relationships 11:58 - A serious ski accident and the perspective it brought to work and life 17:07 - McNally Capital's roots and focus on founder-led, family-backed businesses 23:18 - The "Atlas" framework for structured, end-to-end value creation 27:32 - Why business development has become critical in a crowded PE landscape 30:09 - Expanding deal flow through proactive outreach and market coverage 35:38 - Building and maintaining a network as the foundation of long-term success For more on McNally Capital, visit: https://mcnallycapital.com/ For more information on Tyler Ashley, go to https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerwashley/
WEBINAR LINK:https://shawnmoore.clickfunnels.com/optiniyvvg89sWant to learn more about Vodyssey or start your STR journey. Book a call here:https://meetings.hubspot.com/vodysseystrategysession/booknow?utm_source=vodysseycom&uuid=80fb7859-b8f4-40d1-a31d-15a5caa687b7FOLLOW US:https://www.instagram.com/vodysseyshawnmoorehttps://www.facebook.com/vodysseyshawnmoore/https://www.linkedin.com/company/str-financial-freedomhttps://www.tiktok.com/@vodysseyshawnmooreCONTACT US:support@vodyssey.comPROPERTIES:1) https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1663878386338613127?adults=12&search_mode=regular_search&check_in=2026-04-17&check_out=2026-04-22&children=0&infants=0&pets=0&source_impression_id=p3_1776428001_P3Fh1uJzbM8qXY3s&previous_page_section_name=1000&federated_search_id=e4b0b8ce-f5aa-4228-88c9-c60ad05247142) https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1656097622922788944?unique_share_id=782b8799-9ee0-4571-b9b9-468612f964cc&viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76&source_impression_id=p3_1776695828_P3et2FIN_LxcH-j63) https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1664610695181629998?unique_share_id=e334d3b0-a3f1-4a93-8806-3cbb40858c73&viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76&source_impression_id=p3_1776693310_P37MHx55LwpD_BW_SOURCES:1) https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/policy/economy/4491509/bowser-airbnb-permit-special-event-america250/2) https://www.nahb.org/news-and-economics/housing-economics/indices/housing-market-index3) https://www.federalreserve.gov/data/sloos/sloos-202601.htmChapters00:00:00 Intro00:01:22 Checklists for Successful Short-Term Rental Investing00:02:43 Designing for Success in Short-Term Rentals00:09:25 Regulations Impacting Short-Term Rentals00:10:32 Legislative Changes in Washington, DC00:15:08 Fire Safety Regulations for Short-Term Rentals00:17:43 Current Trends in Homebuilding and Market Sentiment00:20:30 Navigating Opportunities in a Tight Market00:26:38 Understanding the Customer: Men vs. Women in Short-Term Rentals00:36:43 Designing for Families: The Importance of Space and Safety00:43:49 Creating Unique Experiences: The Key to Standing Out00:51:07 The Evolution of Short-Term Rentals: Competing in a Crowded Market
Rachel Simon is a journalist and author whose work has appeared in The New York Times, The Cut, Glamour, Vice, and many more outlets. A former editor at Bustle and Mic, her debut book, Pickleball for All: Everything But the "Kitchen" Sink was published by HarperCollins in 2022. She also teaches writing with Redbud Writing Project and Gotham Writers Workshop, and constructs crossword puzzles through her business Clue & Brew. A New York native, she earned a B.A from Boston's Emerson College and now lives in Raleigh, NC.
It's YOUR time to #EdUpPCO In this episode, YOUR guest is Debbie Cavalier, CEO and Co-Founder of Berklee Online at the Berklee College of Music. YOUR host is Amrit Ahluwalia.Some key questions we tackle:· How does the team at Berklee balance tradition and innovation when making strategic decisions on the future?· How is AI being thoughtfully leveraged to improve online student learning experiences?· What value is non-degree education bringing to program design and strategy?Listen in to #EdUp! Thank YOU so much for tuning in. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to EdUp!Connect with YOUR EdUp Team - Elvin Freytes & Dr. Joe SallustioJoin YOUR EdUp community at The EdUp Experience!We make education YOUR business!
In this episode of the Harvest Growth Podcast, Jon LaClare sits down with Seth Spears, founder and Chief Visionary Officer of Wellnesse, a B Corp-certified brand that has sold over 1 million units in the highly competitive personal care space.Seth shares how he transitioned from building a content-driven audience over more than a decade into launching a product-based business—and why that foundation gave him a powerful advantage when entering the market. He explains how Wellnesse identified a major gap in personal care: products that are both clean and high-performing, without sacrificing one for the other.The conversation dives into the realities of building a brand in a crowded category, including how to differentiate beyond price, why most competitors fail to build long-term trust, and how storytelling, product quality, and consistency drive sustainable growth. Seth also breaks down how direct-to-consumer strategy enabled premium pricing, why customer feedback remains central to product development, and how the brand continues to evolve through testing and iteration.If you're building a product brand—especially in health, wellness, or any saturated market—this episode offers a practical blueprint for standing out, earning trust, and scaling with purpose.In today's episode of the Harvest Growth Podcast, we cover:How Wellnesse sold over 1 million units in a competitive categoryWhy “clean” products often fail—and how to fix thatThe advantage of building an audience before launching a productHow to differentiate when competitors are copying your spaceWhy brand > product for long-term successHow to use customer feedback to drive product innovationThe role of direct-to-consumer in premium pricing strategyWhy most founders fail by chasing profits instead of purposeLessons learned from scaling too fast and hiring too earlyHow consistent storytelling builds trust and lifetime customersIf you're launching or scaling a product brand and want to stand out in a crowded market, this episode delivers actionable insights you can apply immediately.To learn more about Wellnesse, visit Wellnesse.com or search for their products online.Do you have a brand you'd like to launch or grow?Visit HarvestGrowth.com to book a free consultation and learn how our team has helped generate over $2 billion in product sales.
Dr. Priyanka Venugopal (https://burnstressloseweight.com/) is an OB-GYN turned stress and weight loss coach helping overachieving professional women break the cycle of overthinking, emotional eating, and self-doubt. She runs a six-month group program at $8K, and her clients aren't just losing weight. They're getting 10 to 15 hours back every week.In this conversation, Steph and Priyanka go deep on what it actually takes to sell a premium offer in a saturated market, why your ideal clients think they have a discipline problem when they don't, and the real cost of staying stuck in the "I don't have time" story.If you've ever wondered how to make people feel the value of what you do before they've experienced it, this episode will show you exactly how._____________________Sold Out Group ProgramsJoin the waitlist: https://stephcrowder.com/sogpConnect with StephInstagram: @heystephcrowder
If you're ready to implement more efficient & effective marketing strategies for your practice, book your FREE strategy session & marketing plan: https://go.medspamagicmarketing.com/scheduleIn a crowded med spa market, most practices are offering the same services, using the same devices, and competing with similar credentials. So if you are relying on your treatments alone to stand out, you are already at a disadvantage.In this episode, I break down what med spas can learn from Old Spice and how one of the most “undifferentiated” products in the world became a category leader, not by changing the product, but by changing how people feel about the brand.You'll learn:✅ Why injectables and aesthetic treatments are not true differentiators✅ How Old Spice used bold, memorable marketing to dominate a crowded market✅ The importance of building “know, like, and trust” in the right order✅ Why most med spas skip the awareness and likability phases✅ How to create a distinct brand personality that people connect with✅ The overlooked role of intrigue in your marketing strategyYour marketing is not just a support function, it is your differentiation. The practices that win long term are not always the ones with the best injectors, but the ones that make people feel something before they ever walk through the door.Follow us on social media: https://www.instagram.com/medspamagicmarketing/https://www.linkedin.com/company/med-spa-magic-marketing/https://www.facebook.com/MedSpaMagicMarketing/https://www.tiktok.com/@medspamagicmarketing
Ep. 200 - Kimberly dives deep into the rise of video podcasting, why YouTube is no longer optional for growth, and how to balance professional production with raw authenticity. Whether you're a seasoned host or finally ready to hit record for the first time, this episode is your roadmap for strategy, mindset, and impact. A note from Kimberly: In Studio is celebrating a massive milestone! It's the 200th episode, and I'm pulling back the curtain on my entire journey since 2020. From launching as a side project to becoming a full-time creator and studio owner, the podcasting landscape has shifted—and today, I'm sharing the "State of the Union" for creators. Chapters: 01:03 – Episode 200: Reflections on a 6-Year Creator Journey 02:17 – The Rise of Video in Podcasting (And Why It Matters) 03:50 – How to Overcome the Fear of Being on Camera 06:32 – Building Trust, Authority, and Reach Through Video 07:48 – DIY vs. Professional Production: What's Right for You? 11:11 – Podcast Workflow Hacks & New AI Tools 12:19 – Why YouTube is Critical for Podcast Growth 13:09 – Introducing VIP Creators Day 15:17 – The Power of Niche Podcasting in a Crowded Market 20:04 – Using Your Podcast as a Networking & Authority Tool Sign up for your VIP Creators Day here: https://www.iconicstudioshq.com/vip Follow Kimberly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kimberlylovi/ Subscribe on YouTube Here: https://www.youtube.com/@UCmujZrnOwlh5_rcFdxZZT3w
How to Differentiate Your Optometry Practice in a Crowded Market | E294Highlights from this episode:How to Differentiate Your Optometry Practice in a Crowded Market (00:46)Closing Thought: Living in the Present (24:04)In this episode, I dive deeper into why your elevator pitch matters and how clarity in your vision is the key to building a scalable, successful optometry practice. Refining my message around dry eye and ocular surface care transformed the way I lead my team, recruit doctors, and grow my business. If you're tired of sounding like every other practice in town and want to truly stand out, this episode will challenge you to simplify your message and think like a CEO. Strong peers sharpen your clarity, and that clarity is what ultimately creates the practice and life you actually want.Join in the conversation and subscribe to the podcast to keep up with all the great content coming down the pipe! For exclusive content, be sure to register your email on our website and I will be sending out newsletters and other great bonuses as we go. I love getting feedback, questions, suggestions, etc. so contact me atwww.theultimateod.com, on social media (click here for ->YouTube,Twitter,Instagram,Facebook) OR, just shoot me an email at drlillie@theultimateod.com and I'd be happy to chat!
Are you reassessing how you position yourself in the current market? Or rethinking how to use AI and optimise your CV to land your next role?That's exactly what I'm addressing on today's podcast.Here's what I'm hearing in recent conversations with senior leaders and executives:The job market feels tight, competition is fierce -- and they're struggling to stand out when hundreds of candidates are applying for the same role.One leader told me they spent several hours researching a potential employer and customising their application, only to be rejected the same day.These individuals are MORE than qualified. They're being selective about the positions they're applying for and taking time to tailor each application -- but getting nowhere.When the market tightens, competition becomes even harder at senior levels. If you're waiting to be selected or relying solely on job boards right now, it's time to rethink your approach.In this episode, I'm sharing 6 strategic moves to help you stand out as a senior leader -- even in a crowded market. Discover how to move from competing with hundreds of other candidates to positioning yourself strategically.You'll learn:The first step to take right NOW if your current strategy isn't working, so you regain control of your job searchHow to cut out the competition and access the 70% of roles most candidates never seeOne of the biggest mistakes people make when networking -- and how to eliminate procrastination, so you get results fasterPractical ways to map the market and align your networking activities to the RIGHT opportunities -- rather than relying on scattered outreachThe most powerful way to build long-term relationships and become part of the conversation before roles are even definedMy top tips for optimising your CV to clearly communicate your value on paper, so you stand out as a senior leaderSo hit play NOW -- and let's dive in!Thanks for listening. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and leave a 5 star rating and review. It helps more people find the podcast and benefit too!LINKS:→ Listen to Episode #56: LinkedIn Strategy For Leaders next→ Ready to find clarity, build confidence and create a strategy to take ownership of your career? Explore Ignite Your Career. Apply for your free 30 minute consult to get started.→ Learn more about my services for individuals and organisations at staceyback.com or connect with me on LinkedIn or Instagram.
Send me a text message and get your questions answered on the podcast! I'd love to hear from you! “The market is too crowded.”“There's too much competition.”“Everyone's already doing what I do.”If you've ever said that (or quietly believed it), this episode is for you.In this conversation, we're unpacking one of the most common (and costly) lies I hear from brilliant consultants, strategists, and experts: that market saturation means it's time to pivot… or give up.Having difficulty breaking through a crowded market doesn't mean there's a lack of opportunity. It signals that at least one major thing needs adjustment.In this episode, is where we will break it all down.What I know for sure is that most people who say “the market is too crowded” aren't wrong, they're just unclear.If you want more conversations like this, subscribe to the podcast. And if you want clarity right now, take my free two-minute quiz to see why your intelligence, experience, and ideas aren't yet turning into the income, visibility, and recognition they should.https://drangelinadavis.myflodesk.com/authorityLet's Connect! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drangelinadavis/Also, you can watch this episode on YouTube! Click here to tune in.
On this week's episode of The Business of Watches, we head to Nidau, Switzerland, where we sit down with Ben Küffer, the young Chief Executive Officer of family-owned watch brand Norqain. It's a frank discussion of the challenges of starting a brand and creating a signature watch–the Norqain Wild One–at a time when the industry is crowded with competitors, and it's tough to stand out. We focus on Norqain's unique strategy of recruiting former and current professional athletes as not only brand representatives, but also investors and executives. The big news is Norqain's deal to be the official luxury timepiece of the National Hockey League, an agreement guided by former NHLer and Norqain co-founder Mark Streit with some help from superstar and company investor Sidney Crosby of the Pittsburgh Penguins. We also discuss the surprise success of Norqain's 'Enjoy Life' Freedom 60 chronograph that struck a chord with consumers with its ice cream-themed colors and endorsement by Mark Wahlberg to become the brand's top-selling watch. Despite that success, and perhaps in a bid to play the scarcity card, Norqain now says it plans to discontinue the model, at least for now. But first, we're joined by TanTan Wang, who is back from Colorado, and some quality time with Oris's new Big Crown Pointer Date 'Bullseye.' We also talk about the recent headlines in the watch world, including the proposed sale of Richemont's Baume & Mercier to Italy's Damiani Group, as well as Omega's very commercial 300M diver, which it is launching for the Milano Cortina Winter Games. Show Notes 1:57 Oris Big Crown Pointer Date Bullseye 3:15 TanTan's essay and the fight against watch snobbery 3:47 Richemont Sells Baume & Mercier 5:43 Omega Releases A White Ceramic Seamaster 300M For Milano Cortina 2026 9:40 Norqain 10:22 Mark Streit 11:10 Norqain Scores Multi-Year Sponsorship Deal With NHL Aimed At Vaulting Swiss Brands To The Big Leagues 12:03 Sidney Crosby Partners With Watch Company Founded By Former NHLers (ESPN) 18:00 Talking Watches With Jean-Claude Biver 19:55 Norqain Wild One 20:25 BIWI SA 26:00 Hands-On with the Norqain Wild One (Fratello) 30:40 Hands-On With the Norqain Freedom 60 40mm Enjoy Life (Fratello) 35:55 Norqain Independence Skeleton Chrono 42mm 37:31 Swiss watch export statistics 39:44 Swiss watch industry employment 45:00 Stan Wawrinka 51:30 Norqain world and values
The Affiliate Guy with Matt McWilliams: Marketing Tips, Affiliate Management, & More
When it's time to sell, do you suddenly sound… different? A lot of people do. Their tone changes. Their words change. Their confidence changes. And without realizing it, they stop sounding like themselves. They stop sounding confident and start sounding desperate. That shift kills trust, hurts conversions, and slowly damages your brand. In this episode, I'm sharing how to sell in a way that feels natural, confident, and completely on brand… without sounding desperate, awkward, or fake. If selling ever feels uncomfortable or forced, this episode will help you fix that. Links Mentioned in this Episode How to Use Swipe Copy How to Stand Out in a Crowded Market
At TechCrunch Disrupt, three investors took the stage to dissect what makes — and breaks — a pitch deck. They shared with the crowd their candid views on what works in a pitch deck — and what doesn't. Their biggest pet peeve? Buzzword overload. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
If you've ever wondered how to stand out in a sea of other coaches who seem to offer what you do — this episode is for you. Today on The Coaching Edge, I'm talking about your “special sauce” — the unique blend of experience, personality, and perspective that no one else can replicate. It's the thing that makes your marketing feel effortless, your offers resonate deeply, and your right-fit clients say, “You're exactly who I've been looking for.” I'll walk you through: What your special sauce actually is (and what it's not) How my own mix of experiences — from 12 years as a lawyer to my burnout recovery and practical coaching approach — shapes my special sauce as a business coach The exact questions you can ask yourself to uncover what makes you uniquely qualified to do what you do Simple ways to gather feedback from clients that will help you articulate your uniqueness How to use your special sauce to design aligned offers and create marketing that feels 100% authentic If you're tired of trying to “differentiate” yourself with branding tricks or niche tweaks, this episode will help you clarify what already sets you apart — and how to start using it to attract the clients who are truly meant for you. Resources:
This week's guest is Sam MCone, a lifelong Dubai resident and the visionary founder of McCone Properties. Having moved to Dubai at the age of two, Sam has a unique, ground-level perspective on the city's meteoric rise from a quiet trading post to a global powerhouse. His journey in real estate began as an agent, but his innate, level-headed resilience led him to build his own successful brokerage over the past 13 years. In this deeply personal episode, Sam opens up about the tough lessons learned from transitioning from being a tennis ace as a youth, to a top salesperson then to becoming a business owner. He shares invaluable insights on finding a niche in a saturated market of 9,000 brokerages and the uncomfortable but vital role of social media in building a brand. Beyond business, Sam gives a raw and honest account of his complex relationship with his past as a tennis academy student, the challenges that shaped him, and how it contrasts with his current extreme physical challenges, including his upcoming attempt to run 200km in 24 hours to raise 1 million AED for The Sparkle Foundation in Malawi. 01:40 - Growing Up with Dubai 05:30 - An Honest Audit of Dubai's Pros & Cons 09:53 - The Coming Real Estate Correction 17:29 - From Salesman to CEO 23:20 - Carving a Niche in a Crowded Market 42:12 – Running 200 KM in 24 hrs 45:01 – The Past Trauma 48:01 - Parenting Through the Lens of Past Trauma 56:40 - The Story Behind the 200km Run and self-worth Show Sponsors: AYS Developers: A design-focused company dedicated to crafting exceptional homes, vibrant communities, and inspiring lifestyle experiences. https://bit.ly/AYS-Developers Socials: Follow Spencer Lodge on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/madeindubaipodcast/?hl=en https://www.instagram.com/spencer.lodge/?hl=en https://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.lodge https://www.linkedin.com/in/spencerlodge/ https://www.youtube.com/c/SpencerLodgeTV https://www.facebook.com/spencerlodgeofficial/ Follow Sam McCone on Social Media https://www.instagram.com/sam.mccone/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-mccone-7b750435/?originalSubdomain=ae https://www.tiktok.com/@mccone_properties https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC-A0gljutHXS7MbZO6jldkQ https://www.facebook.com/mcconeproperties/
“If the marketplace is already crowded with podcasts that sound great, you're going to have to start at that level.” — Mark HunterMark started way back in 2005, long before smartphones, video podcasts, or even basic podcast apps. Speaking to someone who has seen the entire evolution of the industry really opened my eyes to how much has changed… and how much hasn't.What I loved most about this conversation is how aligned we are on the fundamentals: great audio, strong visuals, and a clear point of differentiation are no longer optional. They're the minimum standard. And both of us have learned—sometimes the hard way—that the way you sound and look directly affects whether sponsors, listeners, and algorithms take you seriously.Key Talking PointsHow Podcasting Has Evolved Since 2005: Mark explains how podcasting started as a grassroots movement with almost no technologyWhy Standing Out Is More Important Than Ever: With millions of active shows, you must differentiate through sound quality, personality, format, or production.The Rise of Solo Episodes: Mark and I both agree: solo episodes are the fastest way to build authority and separate yourself in a crowded market.Sound Quality Is Your First Impression: If your audio isn't clean, warm, and well-recorded, listeners will scroll past you—no matter how good your content is.Video Is Now Essential for Growth: Even if your show is audio-first, video is the marketing tool that gets you discovered on TikTok, Reels, Shorts, and LinkedIn.Chapters & Timestamps00:00 – The OG Era of Podcasting03:00 – The Explosion of Podcasts & Why It's Not “Too Crowded”08:00 – What Actually Makes a Show Stand Out in 202512:00 – Solo Episodes: The Hidden Advantage18:00 – The Truth About Audio Quality26:00 – Why Video Is No Longer OptionalSend us a textEmail me (niall@sevenmillionbikes.com) or contact me on Seven Million Bikes Podcasts Facebook or Instagram to book your free Podcast Audit!Thanks to James Mastroianni from The Wrong Side Of Hollywood for the endorsement! Sign up for Descript now! Need a stunning new logo for your brand? Or maybe a short animation?Whatever you need, you can find it on Fiverr.I've been using Fiverr for years for everything from ordering YouTube thumbnails, translation services, keyword research, writing SEO articles to Canva designs and more!
In this episode of "The Free Lawyer," host Gary interviews Eric Ritter, CEO of Digital Neighbor and digital marketing professor, about law firm growth through effective SEO and branding. Eric shares his journey into legal marketing, the importance of defining an ideal client, and how law firms can stand out in a crowded market. They discuss AI's impact on legal marketing, the value of continuous learning and coaching, and practical strategies for work-life balance. Eric emphasizes building authentic brands and sustainable marketing systems, offering actionable advice for lawyers seeking fulfillment and long-term success.Eric Ritter is the CEO & Founder of Digital Neighbor, a nationally recognized SEO and digital marketing agency specializing in law firm growth. With over a decade of experience, Eric is a leading authority in legal marketing and AI-driven client acquisition. Known as "The SEO Sommelier," he simplifies complex digital strategies to drive growth for law firms.Eric is an adjunct professor at the University of South Florida, teaching digital marketing. He has also been featured in Authority Magazine, Search Engine Watch, and Porch. He hosts The Search Bar Podcast and leads Sip & Search, a networking series for attorneys.In addition to his professional work, Eric is actively involved in the community, serving on multiple nonprofit boards in the Tampa Bay area.Eric's Journey into Legal Marketing (00:02:10) The SEO Sommelier Concept (00:03:07) Myth 1: The Ideal Client Profile (00:04:28)SEO Focus and Resource Allocation (00:06:11)Standing Out in a Crowded Market (00:06:56) Myth 2: All Cases Are the Same (00:09:08) Consistency and Lawyer Involvement in Marketing (00:10:48) Digital Neighbor's Differentiation (00:12:44) Teaching and Staying Current (00:13:46) AI's Impact on Digital Marketing (00:15:06) The Future of Digital Marketing (00:16:58) Answer Engine Optimization (00:20:17) Sustained Law Firm Growth vs. Burnout (00:21:15) The Value of Coaching and Professional Development (00:22:44) Lawyer Fulfillment and Avoiding Burnout (00:24:19) First Steps for Established Law Firms (00:25:04) Work-Life Balance and Delegation (00:26:16) Recharging and Hobbies (00:28:02) Transformation Through Marketing (00:29:44)Would you like to learn what it looks like to become a truly Free Lawyer? You can schedule a complimentary call here: https://calendly.com/garymiles-successcoach/one-one-discovery-callWould you like to learn more about Breaking Free or order your copy? https://www.garymiles.net/break-freeYou can find The Free Lawyer Assessment here- https://www.garymiles.net/the-free-lawyer-assessment
In this episode of The Women On Top, Valerie Lynn sits down with Dylan Jahraus, powerhouse Etsy seller, coach, and former corporate leader, for a deeply honest conversation about ambition, resilience, and building a life on your own terms.Dylan opens up about what pushed her to walk away from the corporate path and how she turned a simple Etsy shop into a multi-seven-figure business. She shares the real challenges behind the highlight reel, the role community played in her growth, and the mindset shifts that helped her navigate doubt, burnout, and big leaps.Together, Valerie and Dylan dig into the strategies that actually move the needle in e-commerce, from understanding customer behavior to staying ahead of trends, and why consistency still outperforms perfection. Dylan also talks about the personal “why” that fuels her, the legacy she hopes to leave for her daughters, and the quiet power of choosing flexibility, freedom, and self-trust.This episode is equal parts tactical and deeply human, offering practical steps for aspiring entrepreneurs and heartfelt encouragement for anyone ready to chase a bigger vision.Chapters00:00 – The Journey Begins: From Corporate to Etsy Success 02:53 – Building an Empire: Overcoming Challenges & Customer Relations 05:58 – E-Commerce Explained: Strategies That Actually Work 09:13 – Understanding Customer Needs: The Key to Longevity 12:09 – Trends & Market Research: Staying Ahead 14:50 – Facing Doubts: The Importance of a Strong “Why” 18:03 – Creating a Legacy: Personal Stories & Motivations 20:52 – The Power of Flexibility: Owning Your Time 23:58 – Saturation & Strategy: Standing Out in a Crowded Market 26:04 – The Power of Consistency 27:40 – Practical Strategies for Sustainable Growth 30:16 – Understanding Digital Products 31:22 – Aligning Skills With Your Business Ideas 33:17 – Finding Fulfillment in Entrepreneurship 36:11 – Building Confidence Through Action 37:38 – How Long It Really Takes to See Success on Etsy 39:13 – Learning From Mentors 40:43 – Balancing Business & Family 43:04 – Dreaming Bigger: Future Aspirations & GrowthConnect with Dylan: The Ultimate Etsy Course: https://dylanjahraus.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dylanjahraus/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeO8Gmc2B-3G2fgcFnRR4Xw Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/etsy-seller-success-tips-for-starting-growing-and/id1647518076Connect with The Women On Top: Follow The Women On Top Podcast on Apple, Spotify, or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe for more empowering conversations and stories! Website: https://thewomenontop.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ @thewomenontop Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thewomenontoppodcast/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-lynn/
Watch the full Booked, Banked, & Unbothered 3-day training here: https://iamkristenlynch.myflodesk.com/booked-banked-unbotheredJump to [09:30] to get straight into the positioning segment from the live masterclass. Ever wondered why people with half your experience or expertise can be more booked?Or why people with 500 followers can out earn people with 100k?This episode will explain how your positioning makes all the difference & is your true authority or "it factor." ----------ADDITIONAL LINKS:Follow me on IG (@iamkristenlynch)
Most brands focus on what works in November. Smart brands plan for what happens in January. In Part 2 of our Black Friday Growth Series, Jim Huffman shares the strategic lens every DTC operator should adopt before running another BFCM campaign.Following up on the tactical BFCM episode, Jim goes deeper — exploring the downstream effects of your Q4 strategy and how to win long-term. He covers what separates high-ROI brands from revenue-chasers, how to evaluate customer acquisition quality during peak season, and how to balance margin, brand, and lifetime value when everyone else is just trying to “make noise.” This isn't about bigger discounts. It's about smarter growth.TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEThe biggest mistake brands make during BFCMHow to set Q4 goals that don't backfire in Q1Why who you acquire in Q4 matters more than how manyOffers that build loyalty vs offers that attract deal-chasersHow to use BFCM for email growth and long-term leverageThe mindset shift that separates pro operators from seasonal brandsResources:Growth Marketing OS (Operating System) GrowthHitJim Huffman websiteJim's LinkedinJim's TwitterThe Shopify Growth School Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51)
Black Friday and Cyber Monday aren't just about slapping on a discount. In this episode, Jim Huffman breaks down the offer-led strategies and conversion playbooks top DTC brands use to turn Q4 into their most profitable months - without relying on bloated budgets or ad spend.Originally aired as a guest appearance on the Ecwid eCommerce Show, Jim reveals the full GrowthHit playbook for building winning Black Friday/Cyber Monday campaigns. He dives deep into offer-led growth, conversion rate hacks, retention strategies, email tricks that actually work, and how to survive the Q1 hangover. Whether you're a scrappy DTC founder or scaling a 7-figure Shopify brand, this is your tactical guide to owning Q4 without burning out or discounting your business into the ground.TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEOffer-led growth: the underrated strategy for converting in Q4The best bundles, BOGOs, and bonus offers that increase AOVTactical email patterns: “Oops” sends, internal leaks, and reminders that convertHow to turn customers into marketers for sustainable growthLanding page and ad setup that avoids performance burnoutWhy Q4 success starts with one hero productReal examples from fashion, consumables, and niche DTC brandsIf you're planning to “wing it” this Black Friday… don't. This episode gives you the framework to build offers, emails, and experiences that drive real growth in any year. Subscribe for more.Resources:Jim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's PlaybookThe Shopify Growth School Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51)
If you've been craving a more soulful connection to your body, your intuition, and the way you lead your life—this episode is a breath of fresh air. It's not just about horses. It's about coming home to you. I'm so delighted to bring you today's deeply moving conversation with transformational coach and equine guide, Sue Willoughby, founder of Willoughby Coaching and host of the Midlife Strategies for Badass Women podcast. This episode explores something I've been fascinated by for years: the intuitive, spiritual, and healing power of horses—and how they reflect back to us the truth of who we are. My closest friends are horse women. I love the whole intuitive aspect of horses and how they teach us the importance of being grounded, authentic, and transparent. From my early mentor Kendall Summerhawk's teachings in her book Brilliance Unbridled, to Sue's equine-assisted coaching practice, I've witnessed again and again how horses become sacred mirrors of our inner lives. They teach us about leadership, presence, boundaries, and the wisdom of being in a "herd"—a community where everyone matters and connection is everything. Sue brings her lived wisdom, humor, resilience, and story to this episode in a way that's both grounding and inspiring. She shares candidly about her path: · Growing up in hardship and learning to self-soothe through her bond with horses · Coming out gay as a young woman and navigating her identity through decades of growth and reinvention · Saying yes to risk, creativity, and change—leaving behind a 6-figure job to follow her calling · How skydiving became the metaphor (and literal leap!) into her next career And at the heart of her message is this powerful truth: Horses are intuitive, present, and emotionally honest. When we partner with them, they help us become the same. You'll also learn: What equine-assisted coaching actually looks like in practice Why Sue believes working with horses is not just healing—but life-changing for many women in midlife How horses sense and reflect back our incongruence, helping us re-align with our intuition The power of somatic awareness in decision-making Her involvement in the documentary film Rescued Hearts and what it revealed to her about communal healing Sue's work guides women from feeling burned out and boxed in to becoming resilient, radiant, and unshakable. Sue's secondary focus and passion is real estate and podcasting. She teaches real estate investors and realtors how to build a podcast platform for their brand. She's offering you a robust free workbook and download to begin that journey for yourself. Links below. Tune in now on Spotify, Apple, Amazon Music, YouTube or iHeart Radio. Let this be your invitation to reinvent your success metrics through presence, community, and intuitive trust. Resources + Links: FB: willoughbycoaching Instagram: sue_willoughby LinkedIn: suewilloughby -Sue's newsletter, tips: https://willoughbycoaching.com -Download Sue's free gift in our Portal of Joy: Podcasting for Real Estate Pros” Series + Companion Workbook. Access in the Portal of Joy https://marladiann.com/podcast/portal Exclusive access to all 21 episodes of Podcasting for Real Estate Pros: Attract Clients, Build Trust, and Stand Out in a Crowded Market—along with the official Companion Workbook to guide your journey. The lessons apply to any entrepreneur ready to add podcasting to their marketing arsenal. Loved this episode? Unlock all the tools, downloads, and featured guest resources at the Portal of Joy: https://marladiann.com/podcast/portal Book your Soul-Led Next Chapter call with Marla: https://tinyurl.com/soul-led-call
How do you stand out as an author when thousands of books are published every day? What's the difference between having a logo and having a real brand that sells books? Is it possible to maintain your authentic voice while appealing to genre readers who seem more loyal to categories than authors? With Steve Brock […] The post Brand Something Beautiful: How Authors Can Stand Out In A Crowded Market with Steve Brock first appeared on The Creative Penn.
A scrappy Flemish speech recognition company tries to put its hometown on the global tech map.SponsorsRoutable - http://ohmyfraud.promo/routableBluebook - https://getbluebook.com/(00:00) - A Pie to the Face (01:00) - Welcome to Oh My Fraud (06:00) - Welcome to Flanders, Belgium (07:30) - Meet the Founders: Jo Lernout and Pol Hauspie (09:30) - The Dream of Voice Recognition (15:12) - Going Public in a Crowded Market (17:42) - Creating the Flanders Language Valley (21:42) - Gaston Bastiaens and His Wine Cellar Wager (26:23) - Microsoft's $45 Million Investment (29:23) - The Philosophy of Pie Throwing (30:53) - Explosive Growth and Suspicious Numbers (32:53) - Dragon Systems and Dictaphone Acquisitions (35:23) - The Korean Revenue Mystery (38:23) - Wall Street Journal Starts Digging (42:17) - "I Lied About Everything" (43:47) - The Resignation and Bankruptcy (47:47) - The SEC Reveals the Fraud (49:47) - Criminal Convictions and Symbolic Justice (50:47) - Lessons Learned: Fake It Till You Make It (52:17) - What Happened to the Technology (53:47) - Closing Thoughts HOW TO EARN FREE CPEIn less than 10 minutes, you can earn NASBA-approved accounting CPE after listening to this episode. Download our mobile app, sign up, and look for the Oh My Fraud channel. Register for the course, complete a short quiz, and get your CPE certificate.https://www.earmark.app/Download the app:Apple: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/earmark-cpe/id1562599728Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.earmarkcpe.appCONNECT WITH CALEBLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/calebnewquist/Email us at ohmyfraud@earmarkcpe.comSources:How Hype Hurt Lernout & Hauspie [Bloomberg via Wayback Machine]How High-Tech Dream Shattered In Scandal at Lernout & Hauspie [WSJ]Lernout & Hauspie Speech Products: Financing From Start-up through IPO [INSEAD, Herwig Langohr, Benoit Leleux, Danny Lein, July 2000, accessed on Sept. 16, 2025]Lernout & Hauspie Speech Products: The Question [INSEAD, Arnoud De Meyer, Bart Pycke, January 1998, accessed on Sept. 16, 2025]Quarterdeck Office Systems [Wikipedia]Patent Is Won By Quarterdeck [NYT]Internet Hype Gives New Life to Quarterdeck Stock [LAT]Gaston Bastiaens [Apple.Fandom]Today in Apple history: Apple exec bets his wine cellar on Newton [CultofMac]Will Microsoft's Stake in Lernout & Hauspie Drive Growth in Speech? [Speech Technology Magazine]In Brussels, Gates Takes a Pie in the Face [Reuters via Wayback Machine]Bill Gates Being Hit in the Face With a Pie (1998) [YouTube]Noël Godin [Wikipedia]He Plasters Paris' Elite With Cream Pies [LAT]Bernard-Henri Levy Pied again in Belgium [YouTube]FM Interviews: Noël Godin [First Monday]Lernout & Hauspie Shares Drop Amid Puzzling Revenue Results [WSJ]Lernout & Hauspie Surges In Korea, Raising Questions [WSJ]Lernout's Bastiaens Will Step Down From CEO Post at Software Concern [WSJ]Lernout to Refile Financial Reports; Co-Founders Resign as Chairmen [WSJ]Lernout Files for Bankruptcy Protection, Says Cash at South Korean Unit Is Missing [WSJ]The Talk of Flanders Has Most Speechless [AP]Lernout & Hauspie Speech Products, N.V., Litigation Release No. 17782, Accounting and Auditing Enforcement Release No. 1648, October 10, 2002 [Securities and Exchange Commission]Lernout & Hauspie Speech Products, N.V., Litigation Release No. 18014, March 4, 2003 [Securities and Exchange Commission]Lernout & Hauspie Founders Guilty in Fraud [WSJ]Goldman Sachs and the $580 Million Black Hole [NYT]
This week on Swimming with Allocators, Michael Downing, serial entrepreneur and venture investor, shares his journey from founding startups to building MDSV Capital, while diving into the essential role of emerging manager funds in today's venture landscape. The discussion covers the evolution of venture capital, key strategies for both LPs and GPs, the importance of innovative sourcing and community-building, and how the Promontory platform fosters stronger connections and investment outcomes. Listeners will take away insights on industry shifts, the value of supporting innovative early-stage funds, practical guidance for thriving amid changing venture dynamics, and so much more.Highlights from this week's conversation include:Michael's Entrepreneurial Journey & Early Startups (1:20)Transition from Founder to Investor and Early Micro VC Experience (5:23)Power Law, Missed Opportunities, and Emerging Manager Alpha (9:57)Capital Extension Structure & Alignment with Managers (14:13)Filtering and Assessing Emerging Managers in a Crowded Market (16:52)Common LP Misunderstandings and Venture Capital Dynamics (19:22)Insider Segment: Trends in LP Activity and Fund Composition (22:20)Direct Investment vs. Fund Commitment by LPs (25:14)Trends Managers Are Missing & Seed Funding Explosion (25:54)Sourcing Methodology and the Platform Approach Advantage (28:48)Criteria for Managers to Engage with Michael Downing (29:05)Deep Tech/Defense Tech Priority & Generalist Outperformance (33:41)Best Practices for Building Relationships with LPs via Promontory (35:33)Future Vision: Programmatic LP Allocation and Software Approach (38:28)Final Thoughts and Takeaways (40:30)MDSV Capital is a Palo Alto-based investment firm led by Silicon Valley veterans with over two decades of entrepreneurial and venture experience. The firm has built a premier ecosystem of top-tier emerging manager funds (EMFs) and LPs through its invitation-only community, The Promontory, and its Emerging Horizons event series. MDSV's Emerging Manager Alpha at Scale strategy targets the top 1% of emerging managers while investing directly in early-growth outliers from their portfolios. Learn more at www.mdsvcapital.com.Sidley Austin LLP is a premier global law firm with a dedicated Venture Funds practice, advising top venture capital firms, institutional investors, and private equity sponsors on fund formation, investment structuring, and regulatory compliance. With deep expertise across private markets, Sidley provides strategic legal counsel to help funds scale effectively. Learn more at sidley.com.Swimming with Allocators is a podcast that dives into the intriguing world of Venture Capital from an LP (Limited Partner) perspective. Hosts Alexa Binns and Earnest Sweat are seasoned professionals who have donned various hats in the VC ecosystem. Each episode, we explore where the future opportunities lie in the VC landscape with insights from top LPs on their investment strategies and industry experts shedding light on emerging trends and technologies. The information provided on this podcast does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, all information, content, and materials available on this podcast are for general informational purposes only. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
What happens when you build an 8-figure business in one of the most taboo industries - without a team, funding, or traditional ad channels? Brian Sloan did exactly that. And in this episode, he reveals the unfiltered story behind his wild entrepreneurial path. Jim sits down with Brian Sloan, founder of AutoBlow, to unpack how he built a global DTC sex toy brand that now generates 8 figures annually - with a team of just two. From eBay auctions to viral PR stunts, Brian shares how his unconventional path, deep product focus, and scrappy tactics helped him thrive in a space where Facebook ads and mainstream visibility were off-limits. This conversation pulls back the curtain on manufacturing, media manipulation, brand building, and what it really takes to scale when the rules don't apply to your category.Key Topics Covered:How Brian went from selling antiques to latex fetishwear to inventing AutoBlowThe viral crowdfunding stunt that made him internet-famous overnightWhy he ditched Amazon - even after major salesHow to get on GQ, Playboy, Howard Stern, and more without a PR teamThe power of press-worthy product ideasWhy focus (on just 2 SKUs) was his biggest growth unlockBuilding a lean team using a global network of niche freelancersIf you're building in DTC and feel like you're drowning in overhead or noise, this episode is a masterclass in focus, edge, and unconventional growth.Resources:AutoblowJim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's Playbook Additional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51)
#613 What happens when a side project in your garage turns into a multi-million dollar business? In this episode, host Kirsten Tyrrel sits down with Mike Yarbrough, co-founder of Rustic & Main, to share how he and his wife turned handmade wooden wedding bands into a fast-growing jewelry brand with nearly 40 employees and a retail storefront in the childhood home of country star Luke Combs. Mike opens up about walking away from his six-figure IT job, scaling production beyond the garage, and how they've built a company culture that still feels like family while continuing to expand. He also talks about standing out in a crowded industry, navigating major marketing shifts, and why storytelling and sentimentality are the keys to creating products people truly cherish. Whether you're a maker, dreamer, or entrepreneur ready to grow, this episode is packed with lessons on scaling a handmade product business the right way! What we discuss with Mike: + Garage project to full business + Handmade wooden wedding bands + Quit six-figure IT job + Scaling from Etsy to Shopify + Storytelling in marketing + Pivot after ad platform changes + Building strong company culture + Opening retail in Luke Combs' home + Expanding beyond rings + Vision for long-term growth Thank you, Mike! Check out Rustic & Main at RusticandMain.com. To get access to our FREE Business Training course go to MillionaireUniversity.com/training. And follow us on: Instagram Facebook Tik Tok Youtube Twitter To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit millionaireuniversity.com/sponsors. Want to hear from more incredible entrepreneurs? Check out all of our interviews here! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In today's episode, I sit down with Seymour Segnit, entrepreneur, inventor, and founder of MAGFAST. He shares how building products that feel as good as they perform can transform something as ordinary as a charging cable into a product customers love. Seymour explains why every pixel, every word, and every detail matters in creating an experience that keeps people coming back. From USB-C cables built to last a decade to a charging stand designed for real household use, we discuss the mix of design, performance, and culture that sets MAGFAST apart in a crowded industry.
In this episode of Small Biz Florida, host Tom Kindred broadcasts from the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference in downtown Tampa. Joining the show are Cody Faig and Isaac Arthur, co-founders of CODO Design—a brand strategy firm with deep expertise in the craft brewing industry. The conversation dives into the crucial role of branding and positioning in the success of small businesses, especially in a competitive space like craft beer. Cody and Isaac share their journey from art and design students to becoming national leaders in brewery brand development. They explain the process behind building and refreshing a brand, from research and market analysis to visual identity and storytelling. Listeners will gain insight into how brand architecture and strategic differentiation can help businesses connect with customers, stand out in a saturated market, and grow sustainably. Whether you're launching a new brewery or refreshing an existing brand, this episode offers expert advice on how to approach branding with purpose and precision. This podcast episode was recorded live at the 2025 Florida Brewers Guild Conference hosted at the Tampa Marriott Water Street. This podcast is made possible by the Florida SBDC Network and sponsored by Florida First Capital. Connect with Our Guest: https://cododesign.com
What do you do when wholesale feels like success but starts killing your brand? For the founders of Mestiza, it meant rewriting the playbook. In this episode, they share how they survived COVID, pivoted to DTC, and built a multi 7-figure fashion business - while raising kids and refusing VC money.Jim is joined by Luisa Takas and Alessandra Perez-Rubio, the powerhouse duo behind Mestiza - a New York-based fashion brand worn by celebrities and loved by loyal customers. The two dive into how they broke into Neiman Marcus early on but quickly realized wholesale wasn't sustainable. From there, they detail how COVID forced a DTC pivot, how their hero product (“The Shimmy Dress”) became a game-changer, and how they've grown profitably while bootstrapping. This is a behind-the-scenes look at resilience, customer obsession, and building a brand with values. TOPICS DISCUSSED IN TODAY'S EPISODEWhy wholesale nearly derailed their brand visionHow COVID forced a DTC rebirth that changed everythingThe power of flagship products like the Shimmy DressTactical tips for customer feedback, crowdfunding, and growthHow they raised a friends-and-family round and used SBA loansWhy being moms made them better foundersThe co-founder dynamic that's lasted longer than most marriagesIf you're building a brand and wondering whether to go DTC, how to grow without VC money, or how to survive the messy middle - this episode is pure gold.Resources:MestizaJim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's PlaybookAdditional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51)
Angelo Ponzi, a seasoned marketing strategist with over 30 years of experience, discusses the challenges of brand differentiation in the crowded managed services provider (MSP) and IT services market. He emphasizes the importance of moving away from company-centric messaging, which often leads to a homogenized market where all providers sound the same. Instead, he advocates for a customer-centric approach that focuses on solving specific problems and addressing pain points, thereby creating a unique value proposition that resonates with potential clients.Ponzi introduces the VRIO framework, which assesses whether a service is valuable, rare, and difficult to imitate. This framework helps businesses identify their competitive advantages and differentiate themselves from competitors. He also highlights the significance of understanding the market and conducting research, which can be as simple as interviewing current customers to gain insights into how they perceive the brand and its offerings. This understanding is crucial for crafting relevant messaging that can effectively attract new clients.The conversation also touches on the balance between long-term brand building and immediate revenue generation. Ponzi suggests that companies should have a clear and consistent message that aligns with their brand pillars. This consistency helps build a strong reputation over time, which is essential for attracting and retaining customers. He stresses the need for businesses to understand their identity and the problems they solve, rather than just focusing on their history or longevity in the market.Finally, Ponzi addresses the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on marketing strategies. He notes that while AI is transforming the industry, many businesses are still grappling with how to effectively utilize it. The conversation concludes with Ponzi encouraging companies to leverage their unique strengths and relationships to stand out in a competitive landscape, ultimately driving growth and success. All our Sponsors: https://businessof.tech/sponsors/ Do you want the show on your podcast app or the written versions of the stories? Subscribe to the Business of Tech: https://www.businessof.tech/subscribe/Looking for a link from the stories? The entire script of the show, with links to articles, are posted in each story on https://www.businessof.tech/ Support the show on Patreon: https://patreon.com/mspradio/ Want to be a guest on Business of Tech: Daily 10-Minute IT Services Insights? Send Dave Sobel a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/businessoftech Want our stuff? Cool Merch? Wear “Why Do We Care?” - Visit https://mspradio.myspreadshop.com Follow us on:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28908079/YouTube: https://youtube.com/mspradio/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mspradionews/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mspradio/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@businessoftechBluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/businessof.tech Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
For the last 30 years, email security has been stuck in the past, focusing almost entirely on stopping bad things from getting into the inbox. In this episode, Rajan Kapoor, Field CISO at Material Security and former Director of Security at Dropbox, argues that this pre-breach mindset is dangerously outdated. The real challenge today is post-breach: protecting the sensitive data that already lives inside your mailboxes.The conversation explores why we must evolve from "email security" to the broader concept of "workspace security" . Rajan explains how interconnected productivity suites like Google Workspace and Microsoft 365 have turned the inbox into a gateway to everything else Drive, accounts, and sensitive company data. We also discuss how the rise of AI co-pilots will create new risks, as they can instantly find and surface over-shared data that was previously hidden in plain sight .Guest Socials - Rajan's LinkedinPodcast Twitter - @CloudSecPod If you want to watch videos of this LIVE STREAMED episode and past episodes - Check out our other Cloud Security Social Channels:-Cloud Security Podcast- Youtube- Cloud Security Newsletter - Cloud Security BootCampIf you are interested in AI Cybersecurity, you can check out our sister podcast - AI Security PodcastQuestions asked:(00:00) Introduction(02:00) Who is Rajan Kapoor? Field CISO at Material Security(02:38) What is Email Security in 2025? The 30-Year-Old Problem(03:20) The Critical Shift: From Pre-Breach to Post-Breach Protection(04:20) The Rise of Workspace Security: Beyond the Inbox(06:00) Why Focusing on Email is "Not Even Half" The Problem(06:50) Are Microsoft 365 Security Challenges Different from Google's?(09:30) Rethinking the Approach to Email Security(11:40) How AI Co-Pilots Will Exploit Your Over-Shared Data(13:30) A Real-World Attack: From Email to Malicious OAuth App(17:00) How Should CISOs Structure Their Teams for Workspace Security?(19:25) The Role of CASB vs. API-Based Security for Data at Rest(23:10) How CISOs Can Separate Signal From Noise in a Crowded Market(24:45) Final Questions: Home Automation, Career Risks, and Ethiopian Food
This week on Glow Up, Gyrl, Kyra welcomes Prerna Sharma, founder of STEP ZERO, a beauty tools brand redefining no-makeup beauty. With a background in consulting and marketing, Prerna is passionate about blending product quality, clear messaging, and powerful storytelling to build brands that stand out. In this episode, Prerna shares: Why clear messaging is the key to brand growth How storytelling helps entrepreneurs connect with their audience Practical steps for refining your brand message What it takes to stand out in a crowded, competitive industry The journey of launching STEP ZERO and what's next for her brand ✨ Connect with Prerna Website: www.shop-stepzero.com Instagram: @shopstepzero LinkedIn: Prerna Sharma If you are looking for clarity, inspiration, and tools to make your business shine, this conversation is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
What if you could turn BBQ ribs into a $250K/month Shopify business? That's exactly what Andrew Buehler did and it started with crowdfunding, cold emails, and serious sales hustle.Jim sits down with Andrew Buehler to unpack one of the most unexpected eCommerce growth stories out there how he launched a premium BBQ brand and scaled it to $250K+ per month without outside investors. Andrew shares his step-by-step process for using crowdfunding to launch, how he activated his network to get early traction, and the exact sales skills that helped him scale. It's scrappy, smart, and full of lessons for any founder.Key Topics Covered:How to successfully launch with crowdfundingWhy activating your personal network is the ultimate unfair advantageWhat actually matters when you're launching on ShopifyCold email and sales tactics that drive real customer acquisitionDesign insights that helped build brand credibility fastWhy resilience is more important than fundingIf you're looking for a launch playbook rooted in hustle - this episode delivers the goods (literally and figuratively).Resources:Urban SmokehouseJim Huffman websiteJim's TwitterGrowthHitThe Growth Marketer's PlaybookAdditional episodes you might enjoy:Startup Ideas by Paul Graham (#45)Nathan Barry: How to Bootstrap a Company to $30M in a Crowded Market (#41)How I Met My Biz Partner and Less Learned Hitting $2M ARR (#44)Ryan Hamilton on his Netflix special, touring with Jerry Seinfeld, & how to write a joke (#10)How We're Validating Startup Ideas (#51)
You don't need to be the first—or even the best—to succeed. You just need to be authentically you. Show Notes: In this episode of Shark Theory, Baylor breaks down one of the most common excuses he hears: “The market's too saturated.” Through the lens of banana bread, secret recipes, and speaking, Baylor shows why oversaturation is never the real problem—lack of authenticity is. Learn how to study what works, add your unique twist, and stop chasing “best” in favor of becoming someone's favorite. Whether in business, relationships, or personal growth, it's your secret ingredient—your authenticity—that sets you apart. What You'll Learn in This Episode: Why “oversaturation” is just an excuse that holds people back How to use existing blueprints as a launchpad for your own success Why “being the best” is subjective—but being someone's favorite is undeniable The importance of identifying and owning your unique “secret sauce” How authenticity leads to joy, longevity, and influence in any field Featured Quote: "Being the best is subjective. Being someone's favorite is undeniable."
In this episode of the Your Project Shepherd podcast, Curtis Lawson sits down with Brinn Miracle, owner of Architangent, to explore the intersection of branding, architecture, and design. Brinn shares how the “Why of Design” helps business owners and design professionals uncover their deeper purpose, clarify their niche, and create spaces that tell authentic stories. From connecting emotionally with clients to building long-term brand equity, this conversation is packed with insights for builders, architects, and designers looking to differentiate themselves and attract the right clients. Discover why branding must come before design.
➡️Like this episode? Leave a review here: RateThisPodcast.com/commondenominator➡️ Subscribe to my #POSITIVITY newsletter: https://moshepopack.com/newsletter/Think you've mastered success in business, creativity, or life? You might be overlooking the one trait that changes everything. Russ Ruffino, a business coach, high-ticket strategist, and transformational leader who's helped over 5,000 coaches and experts generate more than $100 million, reveals why empathy is the ultimate entrepreneurial edge.On this episode of Common Denominator, I explore how empathy transforms marketing, drives better client results, reframes challenges into opportunities, and fuels lasting growth through gratitude and abundance.➡️Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 02:35 The Impact of AI on Film and Acting 05:36 Lessons from Bartending: Understanding Human Behavior 08:24 Empathy in Marketing: Connecting with Your Audience 12:03 The Importance of Life Experience in Coaching 15:21 The Moral Obligation of Coaches 18:48 Strategies for Attracting Clients to Live Events 21:05 Capturing Attention in a Crowded Market 25:58 Gratitude and Success in Business➡️Show Links:Website: https://russruffino.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/russruffino/?hl=en Website: https://moshepopack.com/podcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@mpopack Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mpopack Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MoshePopack X: https://www.twitter.com/MPopack
One of the most-listened and shared episodes of 2024 - an episode that multiple people reached out months later to say "this single episode helped me launch my business." So, that's cool. It's on standing out in a crowded market, and it's on mice. Specifically, the guy who got rid of ours. There are four lessons, a framework, Customer Journey Mapping and the Feature Fold. TackleboxIdea to Startup NewsletterIdea to Startup BotSugar (but it stinks)00:30 Intro02:00 We've Got Mice05:15 The Mouse Man's Funnel07:50 Smooth Jazz08:21 One - Build Your Funnel to Match Customer Emotion11:45 Good Questions For Your Funnel12:30 Two - Contrast from the Feature Fold14:30 Saving your Customers a Decision15:53 Three - Take Yourself Seriously19:14 Four - The Things Other People Stink At22:14 The End22:50 Recap of the Four Lessons
It's brutal out there. You can build something amazing—beautiful design, flawless code, real value—and still watch it disappear into the crowd. There's this hard truth: building the app is only half the battle. The ones that make it usually combine sharp timing, smart distribution, and a deep understanding of what real users actually need. And in a world where algorithms, privacy rules, and AI keep shifting the ground, staying seen takes more than just a good idea—it takes relentless adaptability. Lior Eldan is the COO and co-founder of Moburst, a global digital marketing agency known for its mobile-first expertise. He's helped brands like Google, Reddit, and Pfizer scale through smart digital strategies. Today, he breaks down the real challenges behind app growth—stressing that building a solid product isn't enough. Eldan highlights the need for sharp user acquisition tactics, app store optimization, and keeping pace with fast-moving tech like AI. His focus: strategy, adaptability, and results-driven marketing. Stay tuned! Resources: Ready to experience hypergrowth? Let's talk! Follow Lior Eldan on Facebook Connect with Lior Eldan on LinkedIn
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