Podcasts about Google Maps

Would you like access to our advanced agency training for FREE? https://www.agencymastery360.com/training Do you feel constantly worried about shrinking organic visibility, heavier ad pressure, and constant change? Running an agency has never been a straight line. Platforms change, algorithms shift, and what worked five years ago can quietly stop working overnight. Organic visibility is shrinking, ads are getting more expensive, and uncertainty feels constant. Today's featured guest knows that reality and will share her journey from agency employee to founder of a 43-person local SEO agency, along with her honest perspective on Google, AI, remote teams, and why growing bigger can actually create more freedom and impact when done for the right reasons. Joy Hawkins is the founder and owner of Sterling Sky, a specialized local SEO agency focused on helping businesses rank on Google Maps and local search results. She has been working in the SEO industry since 2006 and is widely known for her deep understanding of how Google's algorithm works, especially in local search. Sterling Sky is a fully remote agency with team members spread across Canada and the United States. What started as a small consulting experiment has grown into a 43-person team over eight years. In this episode, we'll discuss: Google, AI, and the future of local SEO Why SEO agencies must diversify to survive Building a fully remote team. Subscribe Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio Sponsors and Resources E2M Solutions: Today's episode of the Smart Agency Masterclass is sponsored by E2M Solutions, a web design, and development agency that has provided white-label services for the past 10 years to agencies all over the world. Check out e2msolutions.com/smartagency and get 10% off for the first three months of service. From Agency Employee to Founder of a Local SEO Agency After more than a decade inside agencies, Joy realized she was more interested in how systems worked than in selling them. When disagreements about services and sales responsibilities reached a breaking point, she decided to try consulting (fully prepared to dip into savings and return to a job if needed). Clients came faster than expected. Eight years later, that experiment has grown into a 43-person remote agency. Google, AI, and the Future of Local SEO One of the biggest challenges Joy sees in the industry right now is the pace of change inside Google's ecosystem. Features are constantly being swapped out, organic real estate is shrinking, and small businesses are feeling the impact more than ever. While agencies can usually adapt, clients often struggle because Google still represents such a large percentage of their lead flow. A major concern Joy sees is how Google is pushing more ads and limiting organic exposure, especially in local results. On mobile devices, users are now seeing local service ads dominate the top of the screen, followed by AI-driven local results that are shrinking from three listings down to one in some cases. For businesses that used to rely on being second or third in the map pack, this shift can mean a dramatic drop in calls almost overnight. Despite the fear around AI, Joy does not believe Google is going anywhere. As she points out, Google's real advantage is data. Reviews, location history, calls, visits, and behavior all live inside Google Maps. That depth of information is something other platforms struggle to match. Local SEO is still viable, but it is no longer free traffic in the way many business owners became used to. The bigger lesson is not about Google itself, but about dependency. When an agency or a business relies too heavily on one channel, any change can feel catastrophic. The agencies that struggle the most right now tend to be those built around rigid, cookie-cutter systems that cannot flex with the landscape. Why SEO Agencies Must Diversify to Survive Agency owners who want time to adapt should keep in mind it's always better to have an outbound strategy, an inbound strategy, and partnerships that you can rely on. If all your business comes from one channel and that channel changes, you are forced into reaction mode. The opportunity here is for agencies to guide clients toward broader strategies. That might include paid ads, partnerships, or even old school tactics like direct mail and local sponsorships. The exact tactic matters less than the mindset. Businesses need multiple levers to pull so they are not held hostage by one platform's decisions. For instance, right now everyone's scrambling to adopt AI in their processes, services, and more. But you should also try to understand the economics behind AI and advertising. The massive data centers, energy consumption, and infrastructure costs mean that today's low prices will not last forever. Platforms are investing heavily now with the expectation that monetization will follow. For agency owners, this reinforces the importance of pricing correctly, setting expectations with clients, and building offers that account for rising costs and shrinking organic margins. Building a Fully Remote Agency Joy's agency started more as a practical decision than a remote-first experiment. After years of working from home she saw no reason to take on the overhead of an office. The cost savings mattered early on, but the flexibility mattered even more. Without a commute, Joy could better balance work and family life. That same benefit extended to her team. Many of her early hires were former coworkers from an agency that later shut down, people she already trusted and respected. Since they were geographically spread out, an office would have created unnecessary friction. Expanding into the United States was also a strategic move. Joy wanted access to a larger talent pool so she could be extremely selective about who she hired. Being remote made it possible to hire people who were already passionate about local SEO instead of settling for whoever happened to live nearby. Culture, Connection, and Team Building at Scale One of the risks of running a remote agency is losing human connection. Joy is very intentional about avoiding that. While informal meetups happen more often in Canada, the entire team gets together once a year for an in person retreat. The goal of these retreats is mostly relationship building. Joy genuinely likes the people she works with and considers many of them friends. She believes that strong relationships create trust, better communication, and a healthier work environment overall. Joy sees firsthand how flexible work, reasonable boundaries, and a supportive environment can be life changing for employees who came from toxic workplaces. That impact has become a meaningful part of why she continues to grow the agency. Why Scaling the Agency Became a Mission When she first started her agency, Joy wanted a small team. Ten people or fewer. Highly experienced. Minimal management. That vision changed a few years in, and the reason surprised her. Around two years in, her agency began supporting a charity in Uganda, and the more she built that relationship, the more Joy saw how far a single dollar could stretch there compared to North America. Visiting in person made the impact real. She realized that by growing the agency, she could dramatically increase the good they could do through that partnership. The same realization applied to her team. As the agency grew, Joy saw how stable, flexible work improved her employees' lives. That sense of responsibility and opportunity shifted her perspective as she figured out her purpose. Now growth was no longer about ego or scale for its own sake. It became a way to create more impact both inside and outside the business. Leadership, Delegation, and Hiring for Your Weaknesses Agency owners who wish to keep their businesses small are often thinking about the nightmare that running a big agency can be. They imagine that the headaches they deal with at ten employees will just double if the team doubles. However, this was never the case for Joy. When she thinks about overworking she thinks about her time working for others. This is probably because Joy has always been very clear about what she does not enjoy. Accounting, taxes, and people management are high on the list, and instead of forcing herself to become good at everything, she hired people who genuinely enjoy those areas. A strong accountant removed massive mental load early on and hiring leadership team members who thrive on managing people allowed Joy to focus on strategy and innovation. She believes this is one of the biggest unlocks for agency owners who feel trapped. Delegation is not about offloading busywork. It is about trusting capable people to own outcomes. Joy prefers hiring experienced professionals over entry level talent because she does not want to micromanage. Her expectations are high, but so is her respect for her team's autonomy. Do You Want to Transform Your Agency from a Liability to an Asset? Looking to dig deeper into your agency's potential? Check out our Agency Blueprint. Designed for agency owners like you, our Agency Blueprint helps you uncover growth opportunities, tackle obstacles, and craft a customized blueprint for your agency's success.

Tech is no longer the future. It is the present. And it is moving fast. Today's theme, Latinas Leading the Tech Revolution, is a reminder that innovation is not reserved for a select few. It belongs to us too, and this moment demands that we stop standing on the sidelines and start shaping the world being built around us.In today's episode, we revisit three powerhouse conversations with four mujeres who are rewriting the narrative about who gets to lead, innovate, and take up space in tech. Their journeys are different, but they echo the same message: ownership. Ownership of their voice. Ownership of their path. Ownership of their right to stand in rooms where new ideas take shape.We begin with Nikki Barua, interim CEO of Latinas in Tech, whose life is a masterclass in reinvention and bold vision. Nikki shows us that obstacles are not barriers; they are gateways, and when you move with intention, your path expands. Her approach to leadership encourages us to rethink what is possible when Latina women fully step into their ambitions.Next, we revisit Christina Gallegos, leadership strategist and former Google leader. Christina gives us a behind-the-scenes understanding of what leadership looks like inside one of the world's biggest tech ecosystems. Her message is simple and powerful: leadership without humanity is empty, and women lead differently because we care differently.Finally, we return to a fire-filled conversation with Marisela Arechiga and Lizette Espinosa, entrepreneurs and AI educators dedicated to bringing accessible tech knowledge directly into our community. They remind us that our community cannot afford to be last in line for the tools shaping the world, especially AI.Tune in and let these four mujeres show you what happens when Latinas stop waiting to be invited into the future and start building it.Episode Takeaways:Why Nikki believes obstacles are levels, not limits (2:20)The childhood imprint that shaped her belief in possibility and impact (3:10)How reinvention becomes a superpower when you choose curiosity over fear (4:55)Christina's path through top global companies and what prepared her for Google (7:50)Why tech is “like water” and why every industry now depends on it (8:40)Her role in expanding Google Maps to support users in crisis and emergency zones (10:00)Why Latina representation in tech isn't optional, it's essential (12:50)Marisela's callout: our community cannot afford to be the last adopters of emerging tech (16:00)The truth about AI tools, what they can and can't replace, and why human connection stays central (22:40)Connect with Nikki Barua:XLinkedInConnect with Christina D. Gallegos:LinkedInGradient CoastConnect with Marisela Arechiga:InstagramNew Generation Home Improvements WebsiteConnect with Lizette Espinosa:InstagramLinkedInWebsite Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the Private Practice Elevation Podcast, you'll discover how the evolving world of SEO and AI is changing the way therapy practices grow online.  Daniel Fava sits down with Chris Morin of Moonraker AI to explore actionable SEO strategies, the future of search, and how to prepare your private practice website for the age of AI-powered discovery. Therapists are often overwhelmed by conflicting SEO advice and unsure how to adapt to the fast-changing world of online search.  Many feel stuck using outdated tactics or relying on blog content that takes too long to approve and publish. This episode demystifies what's working now in SEO and how therapists can keep their websites relevant, visible, and converting. You might think blog posts are the backbone of a strong SEO strategy.  But Chris and Daniel discuss why blog content may no longer be the best place to focus your energy, and what to prioritize instead to rank higher and connect with your ideal clients. Today Daniel is talking with Chris Morin, the founder of Moonraker AI, an SEO agency that helps therapists build visibility and client trust through smart, user-focused online strategies.  Chris brings years of experience, a personal connection to mental health work, and a wealth of insight into the future of search. This Episode Answers… 1. What are the most important elements of modern SEO for therapy websites? Chris breaks down the pillars of effective SEO today: fast, secure websites; clear site structure with specialty, modality, and location pages; and a focus on relevance over keyword stuffing. He explains how Google rewards clarity and penalizes outdated tactics. 2. How is AI changing the way people find therapists online? AI-generated answers and voice search are reshaping how people search for help. Chris explains how modular, conversational content (like expanded FAQs) can help your website appear in AI-generated results, even if you're not on page one of Google. 3. Should therapists still prioritize blogging for SEO? Not necessarily. Both Daniel and Chris talk about why blog posts aren't the silver bullet they used to be, and how homepage optimization, clear service pages, and press mentions can have a greater impact on SEO and conversion. Other Key Takeaways: Clear, structured content is essential: one service per page, with a focused keyword. Over-optimized pages may now hurt your rankings. Aligning your website with your Google Business Profile is more important than ever. Apple Maps and Bing Places are critical for visibility (not just Google Maps). Press releases and consistent citations build trust with search engines. AI chatbots (like Moonraker's Engage) may soon replace contact forms, boosting conversion. Therapists must embrace a conversational, user-centered tone online to connect and convert.   Links mentioned in this episode: Moonraker Website Get an SEO Assessment for your website   Watch The Video:   This Episode Is Brought To You By: RevKey specializes in Google Ads management for therapists, expertly connecting you with your ideal clients. They focus on getting quality referrals that keep your team busy and your practice growing.   Visit RevKey.com/podcasts for a free Google Ads consultation       Alma is on a mission to simplify access to high-quality, affordable mental health care by giving providers the tools they need to build thriving in-network private practices. When providers join Alma, they gain access to insurance support, teletherapy software, client referrals, automated billing and scheduling tools, and a vibrant community of clinicians who come together for education, training, and events.   Learn more about building a thriving private practice with Alma at helloalma.com/elevation. About Chris Moran   Before marketing, I was a massage therapist for over 15 years, providing chair massage to local businesses. That work connected me to countless wellness providers and I had the opportunity to experience firsthand their deep desire to be of service in a world that desperately needs healing.   I also witnessed how so many amazing practitioners struggle to connect with the clients who need their services the most. A highly intuitive group, many feel that digital marketing is overwhelming, causing them to avoid the necessary steps to establish an online presence.   My goal is to help therapists and wellness providers boost their online visibility and connect with their ideal clients so they can build the practice of their dreams.   About Daniel Fava Daniel Fava is the owner and founder of  Private Practice Elevation, a website and SEO agency focused on helping private practice owners create websites that increase their online visibility and attract more clients. Private Practice Elevation offers web design services, SEO (search engine optimization), and WordPress support to help private practice owners grow their businesses through online marketing.    Daniel lives in Atlanta, GA with his wife Liz, and two energetic boys. When he's not working he enjoys hiking by the river, watching hockey, and enjoying a dram of bourbon.  

In this episode, you'll learn how to diversify beyond Google without trying to be everywhere. You'll get a simple 3-tier framework to decide which platforms still matter for clinic SEO, reputation, and bookings, plus an easy scorecard to prioritize what's worth your time.We cover:The Tier 1 foundation, website, Apple Maps, Bing, and reviewsTier 2 high-leverage platforms, one social channel, and the right directoriesWhy YellowPages can still support local visibility and consistencyHow to get “AI-ready” so your clinic is easier to find in tools like ChatGPT and GrokThe metrics that matter (calls, clicks, direction requests, and appointments)Walk away with a clear 90-day focus plan and a “good enough” checklist for each platform.>> Episode webpage, blog, and show notes: https://propelyourcompany.com/clinic-seo-beyond-google-platforms-that-still-matter/Send in your questions. ❤ We'd love to hear from you!NEW Webinar: How to dominate Google Search, Google Maps, AI-driven search results, and get more new patients.>> Save your spot

Episode Fooooorty! A Berlin episode for the end of 2025 and the beginning of 2026, recorded in November 2025 at Crack Bellmer. The theme was “BLOWN AWAY - drifting along on winds of desire, or sent sideways into next Sunday by sheer explosive force? Let's hear your experiences with being moved by something outside yourself". Happy new year, cuties! Here's to many more slams and fun YLIA episodes. Wanna help us put out more episodes and get a special RSS feed with more SmutSlam goodness popping up on your phone? Jump on our PATREON, listen earlier and get more stories + fukkbukkets… patreon.com/yourlifeisawesome Read more about SmutSlam, our Code of Conduct and find a SHOW near you! smutslam.com Follow SmutSlam on Instagram Follow SmutSlam on Tik Tok If you want to reach out with some feedback or thoughts, write to producer Marc.

In this episode, Cory Connors welcomes his longtime friend and sustainability leader Robert Little to discuss Google's sustainability mission—particularly its global work in circularity, recycling accessibility, packaging innovation, and the role of AI in modern waste systems. Robert shares his nonlinear career path, the principles that shaped his sustainability mindset, and how Google is leveraging its massive product ecosystem to scale sustainability solutions for billions of users worldwide.The conversation explores Google Maps' recycling drop‑off locator, Google Trends as a tool for understanding consumer sustainability needs, Google's plastic‑free packaging design journey, and innovations like CircularNet and Materra, X's emerging AI‑powered materials identification technology.Key Topics Discussed:Robert's Journey Into SustainabilityRobert's Role at GoogleGoogle's Sustainability Mission & Circularity GoalsPackaging Innovation at GoogleGoogle Maps Recycling Drop‑Off SearchAI & Machine Learning for Waste SystemsMaterra (formerly “Project X”): Advanced Material IdentificationAdvice for Consumer BrandsA Call for Optimism & Sharing Good Sustainability StoriesResources Mentioned:Google Trends – trends.google.comGoogle Maps Recycling AttributesGoogle's Plastic‑Free Packaging Design GuideCircularNet (open‑source machine learning model)Materra by X (The Moonshot Factory)Contact:Connect with Robert Little on LinkedIn.Closing Thoughts:Cory and Robert emphasize the need for optimism, collaboration, and smarter infrastructure in global sustainability. Robert highlights the immense potential for AI, transparency, and ecosystem‑level innovation to keep materials “in play” and reduce reliance on new resource extraction.They encourage listeners to stay curious, share good sustainability news, and use the tools available—many of them free—to design better packaging systems and reduce waste globally.Thank you for tuning in to Sustainable Packaging with Cory Connors!https://anewearthproject.com/collections/new-earth-approvedhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cory-connors/I'm here to help you make your packaging more sustainable! Reach out today and I'll get back to you asap. This podcast is an independent production and the podcast production is an original work of the author. All rights of ownership and reproduction are retained—copyright 2022.

As we head into 2026, homeowners are still turning to Google when they need a roofer, and local visibility continues to drive high-quality leads. Many contractors spend money on marketing without understanding how local SEO and Google Maps actually work. In this episode, Dave breaks down the fundamentals of local search, what really drives inbound leads, and how to improve visibility without relying solely on paid ads.If homeowners can't find you on Google, you don't exist.In this episode, I sit down with local SEO expert Dima Sobovoy to break down how roofing contractors can win more jobs by showing up where it matters most, Google Maps and local search.We talk about why many roofing websites and SEO campaigns fail, what Google actually looks for when ranking local contractors, and how simple changes can dramatically improve visibility without chasing gimmicks or shortcuts.This episode is about building a strong local presence that consistently generates qualified leads, not just clicks.Local SEO isn't optional for roofing contractors; it's foundational.In this episode, Dave Sullivan talks with Dima Sobovoy about what actually drives local rankings for roofers and home service businesses. They break down the common mistakes contractors make with SEO, why “set it and forget it” marketing doesn't work, and how Google Maps has become one of the most powerful lead sources in local markets.Dima explains the importance of Google Business Profiles, reviews, proximity, relevance, and consistency, and how contractors can improve their local presence without massive ad budgets. The conversation also covers how SEO fits into a broader business system, so leads don't go to waste once the phone starts ringing.If you want more inbound leads from homeowners actively searching for a roofer in your area, this episode lays out the fundamentals you need to understand.This episode is a replay of a previously published episode of The Roofer Show. We're bringing it back because the message is especially relevant as contractors plan for 2026.Original episode: https://theroofershow.com/418What you'll hear in this episode:Google Maps visibility is critical for roofing contractorsLocal SEO drives higher-intent leads than many paid adsGoogle Business Profiles must be actively managed, not ignoredReviews, consistency, and relevance matter more than tricksSEO only works when paired with strong follow-up systemsLong-term local visibility beats short-term marketing hacksResources:Connect with Dave!Text Dave: (510) 612-1450Free Strategy CallWant to grow a more profitable roofing business? Book a free strategy call with Dave here → davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-callFree ResourceDownload your FREE 1-Page Business Plan for Roofing Contractors → theroofershow.com/planWatch on YouTubeSubscribe for weekly tips and full episodes →

SEO is one of the most powerful ways to attract new patients to your clinic—but here's the big question: should you handle it yourself or hire experts to do it for you?In this episode, we dive deep into the debate between DIY SEO vs. working with professionals, breaking down the pros, cons, and even a middle-ground option that gives you expert guidance without the overwhelm.

Abordons un sujet qui a suscité beaucoup d'intérêt parmi les lecteurs cette année : comment s'affranchir de Google Maps sans perdre le nord.Alors que beaucoup d'entre vous prennent la route pour rejoindre leur famille en cette fin d'année, c'est l'occasion idéale de briller lors des discussions au coin du feu en présentant une alternative crédible, respectueuse de la vie privée et capable de préserver la batterie de votre smartphone pour les photos du réveillon.Le constat de départ est simple et partagé par beaucoup : l'omniprésence du géant de la recherche peut devenir oppressante, même sur la route.Solution de remplacement sérieuseEntre les rapports mensuels détaillant vos moindres déplacements et une consommation énergétique souvent excessive sur des terminaux pourtant récents comme le Pixel 9 Pro, l'expérience utilisateur peut laisser à désirer.C'est ici qu'intervient CoMaps. Cette application gratuite s'est imposée cette année comme une solution de remplacement sérieuse. Elle promet non seulement de vous guider vocalement, mais surtout de le faire sans siphonner vos données personnelles ni votre batterie.Techniquement, il est intéressant de comprendre d'où vient cet outil. CoMaps n'est pas sorti de nulle part : c'est un "fork", une déclinaison d'Organic Maps, elle-même héritière de MapsWithMe. L'application repose sur la philosophie de l'open-source et utilise les données d'OpenStreetMap.CoMaps vous demande de télécharger en amont la carte de la région visitéeLa différence majeure avec son concurrent de Mountain View réside dans son fonctionnement hors ligne. Contrairement au streaming de cartes constant, CoMaps vous demande de télécharger en amont la carte de la région visitée.Cela offre deux avantages immédiats : l'application fonctionne parfaitement sans aucune connexion réseau, ce qui est crucial en zone blanche, et un mode "extérieur" très poussé pour les randonneurs, affichant sentiers et points d'eau potable.Pour les professionnels et les entreprises soucieux de la confidentialité des données, l'impact est significatif. Là où les solutions grand public traditionnelles monétisent la localisation, CoMaps garantit une absence totale de suivi, d'identification des personnes et de collecte de données.L'application est transparente, sans publicité et communautaire. Disponible sur Android et iOS depuis début juillet, elle représente une option robuste pour les flottes d'entreprise ou les collaborateurs qui ont besoin de fiabiliser leurs déplacements sans compromettre la sécurité de leurs informations ni l'autonomie de leurs appareils mobiles.Le ZD Tech est sur toutes les plateformes de podcast ! Abonnez-vous !Hébergé par Ausha. Visitez ausha.co/politique-de-confidentialite pour plus d'informations.

Let's return to Essex Street! At the end of part 2, we stopped at the East India Square Fountain, so we will pick up there and wander all the way down to North Street. Today, you'd walk past apartments, Professor Spindlewinks, Count Orlok's, and Rockafellas. But if we could turn the (Almy's) clock back, we would see Almy's department store, flanked by banks, banks, and more banks! Join Jeffrey and Sarah, your favorite Salem tour guides, as they explore more of Essex Street's past. What lay where the Ped Mall is today. And what would you see past Town House Square? Just how many grand theaters used to dot Essex Street? And what does the YMCA and Alexander Graham Bell have in common? Oh, and why on earth does Essex Street have a 4.1 rating on Trip Advisor?   Feel free to open google maps and walk with us as we continue on our journey. Google Maps. “Directions to 42.5261979,-70.8841083.” Google Maps. https://www.google.com/maps/dir//42.5261979,-70.8841083/@42.5249201,-70.8860927,17.1z/data=!4m2!4m1!3e2?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkxMC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D. Streets of Salem. “Essex Street.” https://streetsofsalem.com/?s=Essex+Street. Tripadvisor. “Essex Street Pedestrian Mall.” https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60954-d285562-Reviews-Essex_Street_Pedestrian_Mall-Salem_Massachusetts.html. Salem State University Archives and Special Collections. “Paramount Theatre.” Salem State University LibGuides. https://libguides.salemstate.edu/home/archives/blog/Paramount-Theatre. Patch. “History of Salem Movie Houses.” Salem Patch. https://patch.com/massachusetts/salem/history-of-salem-movie-houses. Salem News. “Salem Eyes Two Options for Essex St. Pedestrian Mall.” https://www.salemnews.com/news/local_news/salem-eyes-two-options-for-essex-st-pedestrian-mall/article_0d257e61-5b54-5bac-ac50-9e881a5ba46d.html. Salem State Archives. “Salem State Archives Flickr Collection.” Flickr. https://www.flickr.com/photos/salemstatearchives/albums/72157712998829238/with/49497726697. History by the Sea. “Almshouse and Hospital for Contagious.” https://www.historybythesea.com/almshouse-and-hospital-for-contagious. Salem State University. “Local Historian and Salem State Alumna Jen Ratliff Discovers Burial Site at Collins Cove.” Salem State University News. January 28, 2020. https://www.salemstate.edu/news/local-historian-and-salem-state-alumna-jen-ratliff-discovers-burial-site-collins-cove-jan-28-2020. Hart, Donna Seger. “Evolving Essex Street.” Streets of Salem, June 22, 2015. https://streetsofsalem.com/2015/06/22/evolving-essex-street/. Hart, Donna Seger. “On the Tavern Trail.” Streets of Salem, August 20, 2019. https://streetsofsalem.com/2019/08/20/on-the-tavern-trail/. Salem Witch Museum. “Thomas Beadle's Tavern (Site Of).” https://salemwitchmuseum.com/locations/thomas-beadles-tavern-site-of/. National Park Service. “Narbonne House.” Last modified March 30, 2022. https://www.nps.gov/places/narbonne-house.htm. The Naumkeag District Directory for Salem No. 3, 1886–1887. Salem, MA: Henry M. Meek, 1887.   Interested in Salem The Podcast Merch!?  CLICK HERE! Interested in supporting the Podcast? Looking for more Salem content? CLICK HERE! www.salemthepodcast.com NEW INSTAGRAM - @salemthepod Email - hello@salemthepodcast.com   Book a tour with Sarah at Bewitched Historical Tours   www.bewitchedtours.com Book a tour with Jeffrey at Salem Uncovered Tours  www.salemuncoveredtours.com    Intro/Outro Music from Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/unfamiliar-faces License code: NGSBY7LA1HTVAUJE

While many travelers to New York City envision Manhattan's popular landmarks, NYC is composed of five unique and culture-rich boroughs.We'll give a brief overview of each borough and dive into some important NY terminology to help you have a smoother exploration of the city.The five boroughs of New York City are:ManhattanQueensBrooklynThe BronxStaten IslandEach of the five boroughs in New York City has unique offerings, cultures, and history. But first, let's define 'borough'.What is a Borough?In 1898, the term borough was adopted to describe a form of governmental administration for each of the five fundamental constituent parts of the newly consolidated city. So while each borough has some of its own governance, its power is inferior to the authority of the government of the City of New York.Before 1898, each borough (mostly) was seen more as a county and did not fall within the city of New York. Interestingly, each borough is also its own county.The boroughs aren't autonomous cities within a city, but rather administrative divisions of a single municipal government. It explains why, for example, the Mayor of NYC has authority over all five boroughs, and why there's one unified city budget, police department (NYPD), etc., even though each borough has its own Borough President and some local administrative functions.In today's terms, a borough is one of the five distinct geographic regions of New York City including:ManhattanQueensBrooklynThe BronxStaten IslandEach borough has multiple neighborhoods with distinct cultures and histories. We took to social media to get insights from borough residents, so you'll see their recommendations sprinkled throughout.See our full write-up on our website for links to places we mentioned (sorry, we can't fit it all in a podcast description).You'll Have to Check It Out - La Grande Boucherie in MidtownWant even more NYC insights? Sign up for our 100% free newsletter to access:Dozens of Google Maps lists arranged by cuisine and location50+ page NYC Navigation Guide covering getting to & from airports, taking the subway & moreWeekly insights on top spots, upcoming events, and must-know NYC tipsGet started here: ⁠⁠https://rebrand.ly/nyc-navigation-guide

Let's return to Essex Street! At the end of part 2, we stopped at the East India Square Fountain, so we will pick up there and wander all the way down to North Street. Today, you'd walk past apartments, Professor Spindlewinks, Count Orlok's, and Rockafellas. But if we could turn the (Almy's) clock back, we would see Almy's department store, flanked by banks, banks, and more banks! Join Jeffrey and Sarah, your favorite Salem tour guides, as they explore more of Essex Street's past. What lay where the Ped Mall is today. And what would you see past Town House Square? Just how many grand theaters used to dot Essex Street? And what does the YMCA and Alexander Graham Bell have in common? Oh, and why on earth does Essex Street have a 4.1 rating on Trip Advisor?   Feel free to open google maps and walk with us as we continue on our journey. Google Maps. “Directions to 42.5261979,-70.8841083.” Google Maps. https://www.google.com/maps/dir//42.5261979,-70.8841083/@42.5249201,-70.8860927,17.1z/data=!4m2!4m1!3e2?entry=ttu&g_ep=EgoyMDI1MDkxMC4wIKXMDSoASAFQAw%3D%3D. Streets of Salem. “Essex Street.” https://streetsofsalem.com/?s=Essex+Street. Tripadvisor. “Essex Street Pedestrian Mall.” https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60954-d285562-Reviews-Essex_Street_Pedestrian_Mall-Salem_Massachusetts.html. Salem State University Archives and Special Collections. “Paramount Theatre.” Salem State University LibGuides. https://libguides.salemstate.edu/home/archives/blog/Paramount-Theatre. Patch. “History of Salem Movie Houses.” Salem Patch. https://patch.com/massachusetts/salem/history-of-salem-movie-houses. Salem News. “Salem Eyes Two Options for Essex St. Pedestrian Mall.” https://www.salemnews.com/news/local_news/salem-eyes-two-options-for-essex-st-pedestrian-mall/article_0d257e61-5b54-5bac-ac50-9e881a5ba46d.html. Salem State Archives. “Salem State Archives Flickr Collection.” Flickr. https://www.flickr.com/photos/salemstatearchives/albums/72157712998829238/with/49497726697. History by the Sea. “Almshouse and Hospital for Contagious.” https://www.historybythesea.com/almshouse-and-hospital-for-contagious. Salem State University. “Local Historian and Salem State Alumna Jen Ratliff Discovers Burial Site at Collins Cove.” Salem State University News. January 28, 2020. https://www.salemstate.edu/news/local-historian-and-salem-state-alumna-jen-ratliff-discovers-burial-site-collins-cove-jan-28-2020. Hart, Donna Seger. “Evolving Essex Street.” Streets of Salem, June 22, 2015. https://streetsofsalem.com/2015/06/22/evolving-essex-street/. Hart, Donna Seger. “On the Tavern Trail.” Streets of Salem, August 20, 2019. https://streetsofsalem.com/2019/08/20/on-the-tavern-trail/. Salem Witch Museum. “Thomas Beadle's Tavern (Site Of).” https://salemwitchmuseum.com/locations/thomas-beadles-tavern-site-of/. National Park Service. “Narbonne House.” Last modified March 30, 2022. https://www.nps.gov/places/narbonne-house.htm. The Naumkeag District Directory for Salem No. 3, 1886–1887. Salem, MA: Henry M. Meek, 1887.   Interested in Salem The Podcast Merch!?  CLICK HERE! Interested in supporting the Podcast? Looking for more Salem content? CLICK HERE! www.salemthepodcast.com NEW INSTAGRAM - @salemthepod Email - hello@salemthepodcast.com   Book a tour with Sarah at Bewitched Historical Tours   www.bewitchedtours.com Book a tour with Jeffrey at Salem Uncovered Tours  www.salemuncoveredtours.com    Intro/Outro Music from Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/all-good-folks/unfamiliar-faces License code: NGSBY7LA1HTVAUJE

Join me as I take you on a trip to Kanazawa, a peaceful city often called “a smaller, quieter Kyoto.” In this episode, I share my personal travel tips, from visiting stunning gardens and historic tea districts to trying unforgettable desserts and cocktails. You'll also hear key warnings about weather, transport, and reservations. Perfect for travelers wanting to explore Japan off the beaten path!

Google's suggested edits to your Business Profile can hurt visibility, confuse patients, and cost revenue.Learn why these changes happen, how to set up notifications, and the exact steps to keep your clinic's profile accurate and patient-ready.

In today's episode, I'm catching up with you after the holidays and getting real about why this Christmas felt different, what 2025 taught me during my first full year doing this full-time, and why “pivot” is the word I'm taking into 2026.I talk about burnout, people-pleasing, stepping back from social media, and why sometimes the universe reroutes you instead of stopping you. I also break down moments from The Kardashians finale that unexpectedly resonated with me, including resilience, family dynamics, and learning when to try again — just differently.Then we jump into Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, where I unpack why certain dynamics aren't landing this season, my honest take on Boz's corporate/producer energy, the Dorit–Amanda lunch moment that didn't math, Kyle and Morgan still dancing around the truth, and why the show may be overdue for a cast shake-up.I wrap things up with some quick Bravo thoughts, a look ahead to what's coming in 2026, and an idea I've been sitting with about showing up more vulnerably with you all — because this community deserves it.We Need To Talk About This!

French exchange student, Eloi Rolland, was last seen five years ago, today. The then-18-year-old's disappearance has baffled authorities ever since... Was it a murder, kidnapping, an accident, did he get lost in the bush, commit suicide or plan an escape. Is he still alive, does he want to be found? He searches Google Maps for directions to Piha about 5am the morning he vanished. He catches a train. He walks for nearly two hours. He turned on to Piha Road at 9.16am. At 9.48 the battery on his phone goes dead. And then... nothing. Nothing for five years. Today on The Front Page, Herald senior journalist Anna Leask joins us as we take a look back at Eloi’s disappearance. We’ll also hear some from Eloi’s parents, Thierry and Catherine, and Bruno Dupuis of Acapella Productions, who directed a documentary series in France about Eloi’s story. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Chelsea DanielsSound Engineer/Producer: Richard MartinProducer: Ethan SillsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Your business is invisible, and it's costing you money. I'm writing/ recording this from Makurdi, and frankly, I'm frustrated. I've spent my holiday trying to take my family out, only to be met with wrong phone numbers and "ghost" locations on Google Maps. If I can't find you, I can't pay you. It is that simple. The logic is the same for dozens of your potential customers as well.In this episode, I break down why your Google My Business (GMB) profile is your most important storefront in 2025. Stop hiding behind a brick wall. People are searching for you right now—don't let them find your competitor instead because your phone number is outdated.What you will learn: * The 3-Step Fix: How to claim, verify, and update your GMB profile in minutes. * The Power of AI: Using Gemini or Perplexity to optimize your business listing. * The Success Mindset: Why helping your peers grow creates a stronger economy for everyone. * Bonus Training: Get the details on my 10-day intensive "Selling Over the Phone" program starting January 12, 2026Stop losing revenue to bad data! Listen to the full episode now and Subscribe so you never miss a practical masterclass on growing your business!

Last year, Americans spent more than 300 billion minutes on navigation apps, like Waze or Google Maps.The GPS systems in our pockets have come a long way from the first known map, carved into a mammoth tusk 30,000 years ago.But even with satellites tracking us and the ever-changing Earth from the skies – digital maps aren't fact. Errors can show up and are sometimes as old as maps themselves. The phantom island of Sandy Island appeared on Google Maps until 2012, when Australian scientists sailed to its supposed location and found only open ocean.Mistakes on maps were sometimes intentional, sometimes not – but every single one tells a bigger story.How and why did it get there? What does it reveal about the creator of the map and the world around them?We sit down with Jay Foreman and Mark Cooper-Jones, better known as the Map Men on YouTube, to talk through these questions and more.Find more of our programs online. Listen to 1A sponsor-free by signing up for 1A+ at plus.npr.org/the1a. Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

If your clinic isn't showing up on Google, you're handing patients and revenue to competitors. In this episode, you'll hear why ignoring SEO costs more than you think and how optimizing your online presence drives real growth.You'll discover:Why SEO matters for clinicsThe impact of skipping or pausing your SEO effortsHow to boost visibility, attract qualified patients, and increase revenueA simple way to calculate how much money you may be leaving on the tableWhether you're curious about SEO or ready to turn website traffic into foot traffic, this episode gives you clear, actionable steps to grow your clinic sustainably.Episode guide, blog post & show notes: https://propelyourcompany.com/hidden-price-of-ignoring-seo/Send in your questions. ❤ We'd love to hear from you!NEW Webinar: How to dominate Google Search, Google Maps, AI-driven search results, and get more new patients.>> Save your spot

Savoir situer fleuves, rivières, mers et océans, connaître les principales chaînes de montagnes, localiser les pays et leurs frontières, appréhender les flux migratoires, les conséquences de l'urbanisation ou du réchauffement climatique... Voici une liste non exhaustive de ce que nous enseigne la géographie.  Des savoirs essentiels pour représenter l'espace, comprendre le monde qui nous entoure et la place qu'on y occupe. Et depuis, l'arrivée du GPS dans notre quotidien, il est désormais facile de se géolocaliser et de se promener virtuellement aux quatre coins de la planète. Pourtant, si la géographie cherche à nous expliquer le monde en le décrivant, elle s'appuie sur des cartes qui reflètent une certaine vision. Par exemple, début 2025, la décision de Donald Trump de rebaptiser le «Golfe du Mexique» en «Golfe d'Amérique» a été reprise sur Google Maps, le leader mondial de la cartographie numérique. Autre exemple, la projection du Mercator, créée à l'origine pour la navigation maritime, devenue la carte la plus utilisée au monde, fait l'objet de contestation. Dans cette version, la taille de l'Afrique est notamment sous-estimée.   Représenter la forme des continents, la hauteur des montagnes, transcrire la surface sphérique de la terre sur du papier, nécessite des conventions et des normes. La géographie n'est donc pas une matière neutre comme on pourrait le croire. Dans ce contexte, comment enseigner la géographie ?  Cette émission est une rediffusion du 12 novembre 2025  Avec : • Nicolas Lambert, ingénieur de recherche au CNRS, au Centre pour l'analyse spatiale et la géovisualisation. Enseignant en cartographie et webmapping à l'Université de Paris Cité. Co-auteur avec Françoise Bahoken de Cartographia, comment les géographes (re)dessinent le Monde (Armand Colin – 2025) • Labaly Touré, enseignant chercheur, responsable de la filière Géomatique, à l'Université du Sine Saloum El Hadj Ibrahima Niass (USSEIN) à Kaolack, au Sénégal.   En première partie de l'émission, l'école autour du Monde. Direction Bangkok avec notre correspondante Juliette Chaignon. En mars 2025, la Thaïlande a annoncé assouplir les règles concernant le fait de porter les cheveux longs et détachés à l'école. La loi nationale de 1972, écrite pendant la dictature militaire, a été abrogée et désormais les écoles publiques décident de leur propre règlement. Mais 6 mois après cette décision, des cas de sanctions perdurent.  En fin d'émission, la chronique Un parent, une question et les conseils du psychologue Ibrahima Giroux, professeur à l'Université Gaston Berger de Saint-Louis du Sénégal.  Programmation musicale : ► Deux et Demi - Orelsan ► Skido – Victony / Olamide. 

Savoir situer fleuves, rivières, mers et océans, connaître les principales chaînes de montagnes, localiser les pays et leurs frontières, appréhender les flux migratoires, les conséquences de l'urbanisation ou du réchauffement climatique... Voici une liste non exhaustive de ce que nous enseigne la géographie.  Des savoirs essentiels pour représenter l'espace, comprendre le monde qui nous entoure et la place qu'on y occupe. Et depuis, l'arrivée du GPS dans notre quotidien, il est désormais facile de se géolocaliser et de se promener virtuellement aux quatre coins de la planète. Pourtant, si la géographie cherche à nous expliquer le monde en le décrivant, elle s'appuie sur des cartes qui reflètent une certaine vision. Par exemple, début 2025, la décision de Donald Trump de rebaptiser le «Golfe du Mexique» en «Golfe d'Amérique» a été reprise sur Google Maps, le leader mondial de la cartographie numérique. Autre exemple, la projection du Mercator, créée à l'origine pour la navigation maritime, devenue la carte la plus utilisée au monde, fait l'objet de contestation. Dans cette version, la taille de l'Afrique est notamment sous-estimée.   Représenter la forme des continents, la hauteur des montagnes, transcrire la surface sphérique de la terre sur du papier, nécessite des conventions et des normes. La géographie n'est donc pas une matière neutre comme on pourrait le croire. Dans ce contexte, comment enseigner la géographie ?  Cette émission est une rediffusion du 12 novembre 2025  Avec : • Nicolas Lambert, ingénieur de recherche au CNRS, au Centre pour l'analyse spatiale et la géovisualisation. Enseignant en cartographie et webmapping à l'Université de Paris Cité. Co-auteur avec Françoise Bahoken de Cartographia, comment les géographes (re)dessinent le Monde (Armand Colin – 2025) • Labaly Touré, enseignant chercheur, responsable de la filière Géomatique, à l'Université du Sine Saloum El Hadj Ibrahima Niass (USSEIN) à Kaolack, au Sénégal.   En première partie de l'émission, l'école autour du Monde. Direction Bangkok avec notre correspondante Juliette Chaignon. En mars 2025, la Thaïlande a annoncé assouplir les règles concernant le fait de porter les cheveux longs et détachés à l'école. La loi nationale de 1972, écrite pendant la dictature militaire, a été abrogée et désormais les écoles publiques décident de leur propre règlement. Mais 6 mois après cette décision, des cas de sanctions perdurent.  En fin d'émission, la chronique Un parent, une question et les conseils du psychologue Ibrahima Giroux, professeur à l'Université Gaston Berger de Saint-Louis du Sénégal.  Programmation musicale : ► Deux et Demi - Orelsan ► Skido – Victony / Olamide. 

Think you need tons of cash or a perfect credit score to invest in storage? Think again. In this episode, I share the real stories—and real numbers—of how I bought my first two self-storage facilities using zero dollars out of my own pocket. And I'm not alone. One of my coaching clients, Casey, followed the same roadmap and closed on two storage deals within nine months—both with seller financing and no money down. I walk you through the exact steps I took to find the deals, fund them creatively, and build strong, cash-flowing assets without the headaches of tenants, toilets, and trash. Whether you're just starting out, feel stuck financially, or think this isn't possible for you, this episode is going to blow your mind and show you what's actually doable—even if you're brand new.   You'll Learn How To: Fund storage deals without using your own money Tap into seller financing, private lending, and SBA loans Identify and find mom-and-pop owned storage facilities with simple tools Build relationship capital that becomes your most valuable resource Scale without complexity using a proven, repeatable process What You'll Learn in This Episode: [2:55] How I transitioned from burnt-out wholesaler to storage investor [5:17] Why storage beats single-family for cashflow and simplicity [7:41] Forced appreciation: how to increase value without waiting on comps [12:20] The power of lien laws vs. long eviction battles in single-family [14:42] Case study #1: My first $0-down deal with $350K raised through relationships [17:05] Case study #2: Seller financing 90% and doubling cashflow potential [19:24] Case study #3: 100% funded by private lenders, sold for a $700K profit [21:51] How to use Google Maps and direct mail to find off-market, mom-and-pop storage deals [26:37] The $150K deal from a letter a seller held onto for 2 years [29:04] Casey's story: two facilities in nine months, both 100% seller financed Who This Episode Is For: Anyone who thinks they need cash or experience to get started Real estate investors looking for more time freedom and less stress Wholesalers and flippers tired of chasing deals every month Beginners ready to take action and buy their first facility Why You Should Listen: I've done it. Casey's done it. And you can too. This episode is your real-world proof that funding is not your problem—it's your belief. When you apply relationship capital, creative financing, and the right process, you can buy your first (or next) facility sooner than you think. This episode lays out the blueprint—now you just need to take action.   Follow Alex Pardo here: Alex Pardo Website: https://alexpardo.com/ Alex Pardo Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alexpardo15 Alex Pardo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexpardo25 Alex Pardo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlexPardo Storage Wins Website: https://storagewins.com/  Have conversations with at least three to give storage owners, brokers, private lenders, and equity partners through the Storage Wins Facebook group. Join for free by visiting this link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/322064908446514/

Svavar Elliði tónlistamaður fólksins var með okkur í dag og tók hann hljómborðið með sér og söng fyrir okkur topp 5 atburði ársins 2025. Helgi lenti í basli um daginn þegar hann var að leiðbeina Hjálmari hvar þeir ættu að hittast því Hjálmar kýs að nota ekki Google Maps. Helgi tók tvær kærustur með sér til Miami þar sem þau upplifðu mikla framkvæmdarorku og hittu litríka karaktera.IG: helgijean & hjalmarorn110Takk fyrir að hlusta - og munið að subscribe'a!

When it comes to getting your clinic found online, one question always comes up: “How do I improve my website rankings on Google?”Whether you're a chiropractor, acupuncturist, physical therapist, or wellness practitioner, your potential patients are searching for your services right now. The key is making sure your website actually shows up when they do.That's where SEO — search engine optimization — comes in.And today, SEO looks a little different than it used to. With AI-powered search tools like Google's AI Overviews, ChatGPT, and xAI's Grok now summarizing results directly in search, visibility means more than just ranking #1. It's about making sure your clinic is included in those intelligent, conversational answers that patients trust.Let's explore how to do that.

News and Updates: Google Maps Parking Upgrade- Google Maps now automatically saves your parking location and adds custom car icons, but the hands-free feature is currently limited to iPhones, not Android. Restaurant Reservation Data Tracking- AI-powered reservation apps like OpenTable quietly build detailed diner profiles from spending, orders, and habits, raising privacy concerns despite opt-out options and personalization benefits. Windows 10 Security Risks Post-Support- Windows 10 no longer receives security patches, making PCs vulnerable; users must upgrade, pay for limited extended updates, or rely heavily on third-party security tools. PornHub Premium Data Extortion- Hackers linked to ShinyHunters are extorting PornHub after stealing historical Premium user activity data, exposing sensitive viewing histories despite no compromise of payment information. Microsoft's Threat Actor Naming System- Microsoft classifies cyber threat actors using weather-themed names, grouping them by nation-state, financial motive, influence operations, or emerging threats for clearer security attribution. PayPal Applies for Banking Charter- PayPal seeks its own banking charter to expand small-business lending, offer insured deposits, and reduce reliance on partners amid broader U.S. financial deregulation. Ford Reboots F-150 Lightning as EREV- Ford ends F-150 Lightning production, planning a 700-mile extended-range electric reboot while investing heavily in battery storage and shifting aggressively toward hybrids.

You waste 17 hours a year looking for your car. Find out how Google Maps can get that time back. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2025 marks 20 years of Google Maps — a tool that many of us would be, quite literally, lost without. We hear from New Orleanians who used Google Maps/Google Earth in its inaugural year to survey the damage to their homes following Hurricane Katrina. We also talk to the internet's Map Men, who ask whether "the best maps humanity has ever produced are simultaneously the worst maps for humanity?" in their new book, "This Way Up: When Maps Go Wrong (And Why It Matters)."

Heading into 2025, homeowners are still turning to Google when they need a roofer, and local visibility continues to drive high-quality leads. Many contractors spend money on marketing without understanding how local SEO and Google Maps actually work. In this episode, Dave breaks down the fundamentals of local search, what really drives inbound leads, and how to improve visibility without relying solely on paid ads.In this episode, I sit down with Greg DeSimone to break down what truly creates value in a roofing business, and why so many contractors end up walking away with far less than they expected when it's time to exit.This conversation isn't just about selling your business. It's about building a company that's profitable, transferable, and not dependent on you showing up every day.Many roofing contractors assume that revenue alone determines business value, but buyers and private equity groups see things very differently.Today, Dave Sullivan and Greg DeSimone discuss the real drivers of business valuation in the roofing and home services industry. They unpack why systems, leadership depth, clean financials, and predictable profits matter far more than top-line sales.Dave shares firsthand insight from building and exiting his own roofing company, explaining how contractors can unintentionally trap themselves inside their business by failing to delegate, document processes, and build a leadership team.The key takeaway is simple:You don't build value at the end; you build it years in advance.Whether you plan to sell, step back, or just run a stronger business, this episode lays out what needs to be in place to make your company valuable, on your terms.What you'll hear in this episode:Revenue alone does not equal business valueBuyers look for systems, leadership, and clean financialsA business dependent on the owner has limited valueProfitability and predictability matter more than growthExit planning should start years before you plan to sellStrong businesses are built to run without the ownerResources:Connect with Dave!Text Dave: (510) 612-1450Free Strategy CallWant to grow a more profitable roofing business? Book a free strategy call with Dave here → davesullivan.as.me/free-strategy-callFree ResourceDownload your FREE 1-Page Business Plan for Roofing Contractors → theroofershow.com/planWatch on YouTubeSubscribe for weekly tips and full episodes → @DaveSullivanRooferShowTrusted & Vetted SponsorsRuby Receptionists – US-based professionals who answer your phones live, leave a great first impression, and tee up the sale. Get $150 off your first month → theroofercoach.com/ruby.ProLine – Automate your follow-up and close more jobs with text, email, and CRM integration. Try it FREE + save 50% off your...

What happens when curiosity, resilience, and storytelling collide over a lifetime of building something meaningful? In this episode, I welcome Nick Francis, founder and CEO of Casual Films, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, presence, and what it takes to keep going when the work gets heavy. Nick's journey began with a stint at BBC News and a bold 9,000-mile rally from London to Mongolia in a Mini Cooper, a spirit of adventure that still fuels how he approaches business and life today. We talk about how that early experience shaped Casual into a global branded storytelling company with studios across five continents, and what it really means to lead a creative organization at scale. Nick shares insights from growing the company internationally, expanding into Southeast Asia, and staying grounded while producing hundreds of projects each year. Along the way, we explore why emotionally resonant storytelling matters, how trust and preparation beat panic, and why presence with family, health, and purpose keeps leaders steady in uncertain times. This conversation is about building an Unstoppable life by focusing on what matters most, using creativity to connect people, and choosing clarity and resilience in a world full of noise. Highlights: 00:01:30 – Learn how early challenges shape resilience and long-term drive. 00:06:20 – Discover why focusing on your role creates calm under pressure. 00:10:50 – Learn how to protect attention in a nonstop world. 00:18:25 – Understand what global growth teaches about leadership. 00:26:00 – Learn why leading with trust changes relationships. 00:45:55 – Discover how movement and presence restore clarity. About the Guest: Nick Francis is the founder and CEO of Casual, a global production group that blends human storytelling, business know-how, and creativity turbo-charged by AI. Named the UK's number one brand video production company for five years, Casual delivers nearly 1,000 projects annually for world-class brands like Adobe, Amazon, BMW, Hilton, HSBC, and P&G. The adventurous spirit behind its first production – a 9,000-mile journey from London to Mongolia in an old Mini – continues to drive Casual's growth across offices in London, New York, LA, San Francisco, Amsterdam, Barcelona, Sydney, Singapore, Hong Kong and Greater China. Nick previously worked for BBC News and is widely recognised for his expertise in video storytelling, brand building, and corporate communications. He is the founding director of the Casual Films Academy, a charity helping young filmmakers develop skills by producing films for charitable organisations. He is also the author of ‘The New Fire: Harness the Power of Video for Your Business' and a passionate advocate for emotionally resonant, behaviorally grounded storytelling. Nick lives in San Francisco, California, with his family. Ways to connect with Nick**:** Website: https://www.casualfilms.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@casual_global  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casualglobal/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CasualFilms/  Nick's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickfrancisfilm/  Casual's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/casual-films-international/  Beyond Casual - LinkedIn Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/build-relation/newsletter-follow?entityUrn=6924458968031395840 About the Host: Michael Hingson is a New York Times best-selling author, international lecturer, and Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe. Michael, blind since birth, survived the 9/11 attacks with the help of his guide dog Roselle. This story is the subject of his best-selling book, Thunder Dog. Michael gives over 100 presentations around the world each year speaking to influential groups such as Exxon Mobile, AT&T, Federal Express, Scripps College, Rutgers University, Children's Hospital, and the American Red Cross just to name a few. He is Ambassador for the National Braille Literacy Campaign for the National Federation of the Blind and also serves as Ambassador for the American Humane Association's 2012 Hero Dog Awards. https://michaelhingson.com https://www.facebook.com/michael.hingson.author.speaker/ https://twitter.com/mhingson https://www.youtube.com/user/mhingson https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelhingson/ accessiBe Links https://accessibe.com/ https://www.youtube.com/c/accessiBe https://www.linkedin.com/company/accessibe/mycompany/ https://www.facebook.com/accessibe/ Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can subscribe in your favorite podcast app. You can also support our podcast through our tip jar https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/unstoppable-mindset . Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Transcription Notes: Michael Hingson  00:00 Access Cast and accessiBe Initiative presents Unstoppable Mindset. The podcast where inclusion, diversity and the unexpected meet. Hi, I'm Michael Hingson, Chief Vision Officer for accessiBe and the author of the number one New York Times bestselling book, Thunder dog, the story of a blind man, his guide dog and the triumph of trust. Thanks for joining me on my podcast as we explore our own blinding fears of inclusion unacceptance and our resistance to change. We will discover the idea that no matter the situation, or the people we encounter, our own fears, and prejudices often are our strongest barriers to moving forward. The unstoppable mindset podcast is sponsored by accessiBe, that's a c c e s s i capital B e. Visit www.accessibe.com to learn how you can make your website accessible for persons with disabilities. And to help make the internet fully inclusive by the year 2025. Glad you dropped by we're happy to meet you and to have you here with us. Michael Hingson  01:21 Well, hello everyone. I am your host, Mike hingson, that's kind of funny. We'll talk about that in a second, but this is unstoppable mindset. And our guest today is Nick Francis, and what we're going to talk about is the fact that people used to always ask me, well, they would call me Mr. Kingston, and it took me, as I just told Nick a master's degree in physics in 10 years to realize that if I said Mike hingson, that's why they said Mr. Kingston. So was either say Mike hingson or Michael hingson. Well, Michael hingson is a lot easier to say than Mike hingson, but I don't really care Mike or Michael, as long as it's not late for dinner. Whatever works. Yeah. Well, Nick, welcome to unstoppable mindset. We're glad you're Nick Francis  02:04 here. Thanks, Mike. It's great to be here. Michael Hingson  02:08 So Nick is a marketing kind of guy. He's got a company called casual that we'll hear about. Originally from England, I believe, and now lives in San Francisco. We were talking about the weather in San Francisco, as opposed to down here in Victorville. A little bit earlier. We're going to have a heat wave today and and he doesn't have that up there, but you know, well, things, things change over time. But anyway, we're glad you're here. And thanks, Mike. Really looking forward to it. Tell us about the early Nick growing up and all that sort of stuff, just to get us started. Nick Francis  02:43 That's a good question. I grew up in London, in in Richmond, which is southwest London. It's a at the time, it wasn't anything like as kind of, it's become quite kind of shishi, I think back in the day, because it's on the west of London. The pollution from the city used to flow east and so, like all the kind of well to do people, in fact, there used to be a, there used to be a palace in Richmond. It's where Queen Elizabeth died, the first Queen Elizabeth, that is. And, yeah, you know, I grew up it was, you know, there's a lot of rugby played around there. I played rugby for my local rugby club from a very young age, and we went sailing on the south coast. It was, it was great, really. And then, you know, unfortunately, when I was 10 years old, my my dad died. He had had a very powerful job at the BBC, and then he ran the British Council, which is the overseas wing of the Arts Council, so promoting, I guess, British soft power around the world, going and opening art galleries and going to ballet in Moscow and all sorts. So he had an incredible life and worked incredibly hard. And you know, that has brought me all sorts of privileges, I think, when I was a kid. But, you know, unfortunately, age 10 that all ended. And you know, losing a parent at that age is such a sort of fundamental, kind of shaking of your foundations. You know, you when you're a kid, you feel like a, you're going to live forever, and B, the things that are happening around you are going to last forever. And so, you know, you know, my mom was amazing, of course, and, you know, and in time, I got a new stepdad, and all the rest of it. But you know, that kind of shaped a lot of my a lot of my youth, really. And, yeah, I mean, Grief is a funny thing, and it's funny the way it manifests itself as you grow. But yeah. So I grew up there. I went to school in the Midlands, near where my stepdad lived, and then University of Newcastle, which is up in the north of England, where it rains a lot. It's where it's where Newcastle Football Club is based. And you know is that is absolutely at the center of the city. So. So the city really comes alive there. And it was during that time that I discovered photography, and I wanted to be a war photographer, because I believe that was where life was lived at the kind of the real cutting edge. You know, you see the you see humanity in its in its most visceral and vivid color in terrible situations. And I kind of that seemed like an interesting thing to go to go and do. Michael Hingson  05:27 Well, what? So what did you major in in college in Newcastle? So I did Nick Francis  05:31 history and politics, and then I went did a course in television journalism, and ended up working at BBC News as a initially running on the floor. So I used to deliver the papers that you know, when you see people shuffling or not, they do it anymore, actually, because everything, everything's digital now digital, yeah, but when they were worried about the the auto cues going down, they we always had to make sure that they had the up to date script. And so I would be printing in, obviously, the, you know, because it's a three hour news show, the scripts constantly evolving, and so, you know, I was making sure they had the most up to date version in their hands. And it's, I don't know if you have spent any time around live TV Mike, but it's an incredibly humbling experience, like the power of it. You know, there's sort of two or 3 million people watching these two people who are sitting five feet in front of me, and the, you know, the sort of slightly kind of, there was an element of me that just wanted to jump in front of them and kind of go, ah. And, you know, never, ever work in live TV, ever again. But you know, anyway, I did that and ended up working as a producer, writing and developing, developing packets that would go out on the show, producing interviews and things. And, you know, I absolutely loved it. It was, it was a great time. But then I left to go and set up my company. Michael Hingson  06:56 I am amazed, even today, with with watching people on the news, and I've and I've been in a number of studios during live broadcasts and so on. But I'm amazed at how well, mostly, at least, I've been fortunate. Mostly, the people are able to read because they do have to read everything. It isn't like you're doing a lot of bad living in a studio. Obviously, if you are out with a story, out in the field, if you will, there, there may be more where you don't have a printed script to go by, but I'm amazed at the people in the studio, how much they are able to do by by reading it all completely. Nick Francis  07:37 It's, I mean, the whole experience is kind of, it's awe inspiring, really. And you know, when you first go into a Live, a live broadcast studio, and you see the complexity, and you know, they've got feeds coming in from all over the world, and you know, there's upwards of 100 people all working together to make it happen. And I remember talking to one of the directors at the time, and I was like, How on earth does this work? And he said, You know, it's simple. You everyone has a very specific job, and you know that as long as you do your bit of the job when it comes in front of you, then the show will go out. He said, where it falls over is when people start worrying about whether other people are going to are going to deliver on time or, you know, and so if you start worrying about what other people are doing, rather than just focusing on the thing you have to do, that's where it potentially falls over, Michael Hingson  08:29 which is a great object lesson anyway, to worry about and control and don't worry about the rest Nick Francis  08:36 for sure. Yeah, yeah, for sure. You know, it's almost a lesson for life. I mean, sorry, it is a lesson for life, and Michael Hingson  08:43 it's something that I talk a lot about in dealing with the World Trade Center and so on, and because it was a message I received, but I've been really preaching that for a long time. Don't worry about what you can't control, because all you're going to do is create fear and drive yourself Nick Francis  08:58 crazy, completely, completely. You know. You know what is it? Give me the, give me this. Give me the strength to change the things I can. Give me the give me the ability to let the things that I can't change slide but and the wisdom to know the difference. I'm absolutely mangling that, that saying, but, yeah, it's, it's true, you know. And I think, you know, it's so easy for us to in this kind of modern world where everything's so media, and we're constantly served up things that, you know, shock us, sadness, enrage us, you know, just to be able to step back and say, actually, you know what? These are things I can't really change. I'd have to just let them wash over me. Yeah, and just focus on the things that you really can change. Michael Hingson  09:46 It's okay to be aware of things, but you've got to separate the things you can control from the things that you can and we, unfortunately aren't taught that. Our parents don't teach us that because they were never taught it, and it's something. That, just as you say, slides by, and it's so unfortunate, because it helps to create such a level of fear about so many things in our in our psyche and in our world that we really shouldn't have to do Nick Francis  10:13 completely well. I think, you know, obviously, but you know, we've, we've spent hundreds, if not millions of years evolving to become humans, and then, you know, actually being aware of things beyond our own village has only been an evolution of the last, you know what, five, 600 years, yeah. And so we are just absolutely, fundamentally not able to cope with a world of such incredible stimulus that we live in now. Michael Hingson  10:43 Yeah, and it's only getting worse with all the social media, with all the different things that are happening and of course, and we're only working to develop more and more things to inundate us with more and more kinds of inputs. It's really unfortunate we just don't learn to separate ourselves very easily from all of that. Nick Francis  11:04 Yeah, well, you know, it's so interesting when you look at the development of VR headsets, and, you know, are we going to have, like, lenses in our eyes that kind of enable us to see computer screens while we're just walking down the road, you know? And you look at that and you think, well, actually, just a cell phone. I mean, cell phones are going to be gone fairly soon. I would imagine, you know, as a format, it's not something that's going to abide but the idea that we're going to create technology that's going to be more, that's going to take us away from being in the moment more rather than less, is kind of terrifying. Because, I would say already, even with, you know, the most basic technology that we have now, which is, you know, mind bending, compared to where we were even 20 years ago, you know, to think that we're only going to become more immersive is, you know, we really, really as a species, have to work out how we are going to be far better at stepping away from this stuff. And I, you know, I do, I wonder, with AI and technology whether there is, you know, there's a real backlash coming of people who do want to just unplug, yeah, Michael Hingson  12:13 well, it'll be interesting to see, and I hope that people will learn to do it. I know when I started hearing about AI, and one of the first things I heard was how kids would use it to write their papers, and it was a horrible thing, and they were trying to figure out ways so that teachers could tell us something was written by AI, as opposed to a student. And I almost immediately developed this opinion, no, let AI write the papers for students, but when the students turn in their paper, then take a day to in your class where you have every student come up and defend their paper, see who really knows it, you know. And what a great teaching opportunity and teaching moment to to get students also to learn to do public speaking and other things a little bit more than they do, but we haven't. That hasn't caught on, but I continue to preach it. Nick Francis  13:08 I think that's really smart, you know, as like aI exists, and I think to to pretend somehow that, you know, we can work without it is, you know, it's, it's, it's, yeah, I mean, it's like, well, saying, you know, we're just going to go back to Word processors or typewriters, which, you know, in which it weirdly, in their own time, people looked at and said, this is, you know, these, these are going to completely rot our minds. In fact, yeah, I think Plato said that was very against writing, because he believed it would mean no one could remember anything after that, you know. So it's, you know, it's just, it's an endless, endless evolution. But I think, you know, we have to work out how we incorporate into it, into our education system, for sure. Michael Hingson  13:57 Well, I remember being in in college and studying physics and so on. And one of the things that we were constantly told is, on tests, you can't bring calculators in, can't use calculators in class. Well, why not? Well, because you could cheat with that. Well, the reality is that the smart physicists realized that it's all about really learning the concepts more than the numbers. And yeah, that's great to to know how to do the math. But the the real issue is, do you know the physics, not just the math completely? Nick Francis  14:34 Yeah. And then how you know? How are the challenges that are being set such that you know, they really test your ability to use the calculator effectively, right? So how you know? How are you lifting the bar? And in a way, I think that's kind of what we have to do, what we have to do now, Michael Hingson  14:50 agreed, agreed. So you were in the news business and so on, and then, as you said, you left to start your own company. Why did you decide to do that? Nick Francis  14:59 Well, a friend of. Ryan and I from University had always talked about doing this rally from London to Mongolia. So, and you do it in an old car that you sort of look at, and you go, well, that's a bit rubbish. It has to have under a one liter engine. So it's tiny, it's cheap. The idea is it breaks down you have an adventure. And it was something we kind of talked about in passing and decided that would be a good thing to do. And then over time, you know, we started sending off. We you know, we applied, and then we started sending off for visas and things. And then before we knew it, we were like, gosh, so it looks like we're actually going to do this thing. But by then, you know, my job at the BBC was really taking off. And so I said, you know, let's do this, but let's make a documentary of it. So long story short, we ended up making a series of diary films for Expedia, which we uploaded onto their website. It was, you know, we were kind of pitching this around about 2005 we kind of did it in 2006 so it was kind of, you know, nobody had really heard of YouTube. The idea of making videos to go online was kind of unheard of because, you know, broadband was just kind of getting sorry. It wasn't unheard of, but it was, it was very, it was a very nascent industry. And so, yeah, we went and drove 9000 miles over five weeks. We spent a week sitting in various different repair yards and kind of break his yards in everywhere from Turkey to Siberia. And when we came back, it became clear that the internet was opening up as this incredible medium for video, and video is such a powerful way to share emotion with a dispersed audience. You know, not that I would have necessarily talked about it in that in those terms back then, but it really seemed like, you know, every every web page, every piece of corporate content, could have a video aspect to it. And so we came back and had a few fits and starts and did some, I mean, we, you know, we made a series of hotel videos where we were paid 50 quid a day to go and film hotels. And it was hot and it was hard work. And anyway, it was rough. But over time, you know, we started to win some more lucrative work. And, you know, really, the company grew from there. We won some awards, which helped us to kind of make a bit of a name for ourselves. And this was, there's been a real explosion in technology, kind of shortly after when we did this. So digital SLRs, so, you know, old kind of SLR cameras, you know, turned into digital cameras, which could then start to shoot video. And so it, there was a real explosion in high quality video produced by very small teams of people using the latest technology creatively. And that just felt like a good kind of kick off point for our business. But we just kind of because we got in in kind of 2006 we just sort of beat a wave that kind of started with digital SLRs, and then was kind of absolutely exploded when video cell phones came on the market, video smartphones. And yeah, you know, because we had these awards and we had some kind of fairly blue chip clients from a relatively early, early stage, we were able to grow the company. We then expanded to the US in kind of 2011 20 between 2011 2014 and then we were working with a lot of the big tech companies in California, so it felt like we should maybe kind of really invest in that. And so I moved out here with some of our team in 2018 at the beginning of 2018 and I've been here ever since, wow. Michael Hingson  18:44 So what is it? What was it like starting a business here, or bringing the business here, as opposed to what it was in England? Nick Francis  18:53 It's really interesting, because the creatively the UK is so strong, you know, like so many, you know, from the Beatles to Led Zeppelin to the Rolling Stones to, you know, and then on through, like all the kind of, you know, film and TV, you know, Brits are very good at kind of Creating, like, high level creative, but not necessarily always the best at kind of monetizing it, you know. I mean, some of those obviously have been fantastic successes, right? And so I think in the UK, we we take a lot longer over getting, getting to, like, the perfect creative output, whereas the US is far more focused on, you know, okay, we need this to to perform a task, and frankly, if we get it 80% done, then we're good, right? And so I think a lot of creative businesses in the UK look at the US and they go, gosh. Firstly, the streets are paved with gold. Like the commercial opportunity seems incredible, but actually creating. Tracking it is incredibly difficult, and I think it's because we sort of see the outputs in the wrong way. I think they're just the energy and the dynamism of the US economy is just, it's kind of awe inspiring. But you know, so many businesses try to expand here and kind of fall over themselves. And I think the number one thing is just, you have to have a founder who's willing to move to the US. Because I think Churchill said that we're two two countries divided by the same language. And I never fully understood what that meant until I moved here. I think what it what he really means by that is that we're so culturally different in the US versus the UK. And I think lots of Brits look at America and think, Well, you know, it's just the same. It's just a bit kind of bigger and a bit Brasher, you know, and it and actually, I think if people in the US spoke a completely different language, we would approach it as a different culture, which would then help us to understand it better. Yeah. So, yeah. I mean, it's been, it's been the most fabulous adventure to move here and to, you know, it's, it's hard sometimes, and California is a long way from home, but the energy and the optimism and the entrepreneurialism of it, coupled with just the natural beauty is just staggering. So we've made some of our closest friends in California, it's been absolutely fantastic. And across the US, it's been a fantastic adventure for us and our family. Michael Hingson  21:30 Yeah, I've had the opportunity to travel all over the US, and I hear negative comments about one place or another, like West Virginia, people eat nothing but fried food and all that. But the reality is, if you really take an overall look at it, the country has so much to offer, and I have yet to find a place that I didn't enjoy going to, and people I never enjoyed meeting, I really enjoy all of that, and it's great to meet people, and it's great to experience so much of this country. And I've taken that same posture to other places. I finally got to visit England last October, for the first time. You mentioned rugby earlier, the first time I was exposed to rugby was when I traveled to New Zealand in 2003 and found it pretty fascinating. And then also, I was listening to some rugby, rugby, rugby broadcast, and I tuned across the radio and suddenly found a cricket game that was a little bit slow for me. Yeah, cricket to be it's slow. Nick Francis  22:41 Yeah, fair enough. It's funny. Actually, we know what you're saying about travel. Like one of the amazing things about our Well, I kind of learned two sort of quite fundamentally philosophical things, I think, you know, or things about the about humans and the human condition. Firstly, like, you know, traveling across, you know, we left from London. We, like, drove down. We went through Belgium and France and Poland and Slovenia, Slovakia, Slovenia, like, all the way down Bulgaria, across Turkey into Georgia and Azerbaijan and across the Caspian Sea, and through Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, into Russia, and then down into Mongolia. When we finished, we were due north of Jakarta, right? So we drove, we drove a third of the way around the world. And the two things that taught me were, firstly that human people are good. You know, everywhere we went, people would invite us in to have meals, or they'd like fix our car for not unit for free. I mean, people were so kind everywhere we went. Yeah. And the other thing was, just, when we get on a plane and you fly from here to or you fly from London, say to we, frankly, you fly from London to Turkey, it feels unbelievably different. You know, you fly from London to China, and it's, you know, complete different culture. But what our journey towards us, because we drove, was that, you know, while we might not like to admit it, we're actually quite, you know, Brits are quite similar to the French, and the French actually are quite similar to the Belgians, and Belgians quite similar to the Germans. And, you know, and all the way through, actually, like we just saw a sort of slowly changing gradient of all the different cultures. And it really, you know, we are just one people, you know. So as much as we might feel that, you know, we're all we're all different, actually, when you see it, when you when you do a drive like that, you really, you really get to see how slowly the cultures shift and change. Another thing that's quite funny, actually, was just like, everywhere we went, we would be like, you know, we're driving to Turkey. They'd be like, Oh, God, you just drove through Bulgaria, you know, how is like, everything on your car not been stolen, you know, they're so dodgy that you Bulgarians are so dodgy. And then, you know, we'd get drive through the country, and they'd be like, you know, oh, you're going into Georgia, you know, gosh, what you go. Make, make sure everything's tied down on your car. They're so dodgy. And then you get into Georgia, and they're like, Oh my God, you've just very driven through Turkey this, like, everyone sort of had these, like, weird, yeah, kind of perceptions of their neighbors. And it was all nonsense, yeah, you know. Michael Hingson  25:15 And the reality is that, as you pointed out, people are good, you know, I think, I think politicians are the ones who so often mess it up for everyone, just because they've got agendas. And unfortunately, they teach everyone else to be suspicious of of each other, because, oh, this person clearly has a hidden agenda when it normally isn't necessarily true at all. Nick Francis  25:42 No, no, no, certainly not in my experience, anyway, not in my experience. But, you know, well, oh, go ahead. No, no. It's just, you know, it's, it is. It's, it is weird the way that happens, you know, well, they say, you know, if, if politicians fought wars rather than, rather than our young men and women, then there'd be a lot less of them. Yeah, so Well, Michael Hingson  26:06 there would be, well as I tell people, you know, I I've learned a lot from working with eight guy dogs and my wife's service dog, who we had for, oh, gosh, 14 years almost, and one of the things that I tell people is I absolutely do believe what people say, that dogs love unconditionally, unless they're just totally traumatized by something, but they don't trust unconditionally. The difference between dogs and people is that dogs are more open to trust because we've taught ourselves and have been taught by others, that everyone has their own hidden agenda. So we don't trust. We're not open to trust, which is so unfortunate because it affects the psyche of so many people in such a negative way. We get too suspicious of people, so it's a lot harder to earn trust. Nick Francis  27:02 Yeah, I mean, I've, I don't know, you know, like I've been, I've been very fortunate in my life, and I kind of always try to be, you know, open and trusting. And frankly, you know, I think if you're open and trusting with people, in my experience, you kind of, it comes back to you, you know, and maybe kind of looking for the best in everyone. You know, there are times where that's not ideal, but you know, I think you know, in the overwhelming majority of cases, you know, actually, you know, you treat people right? And you know what goes what goes around, comes around, absolutely. Michael Hingson  27:35 And I think that's so very true. There are some people who just are going to be different than that, but I think for the most part, if you show that you're open to trust people will want to trust you, as long as you're also willing to trust Nick Francis  27:51 them completely. Yeah, completely. Michael Hingson  27:54 So I think that that's the big thing we have to deal with. And I don't know, I hope that we, we will learn it. But I think that politicians are really the most guilty about teaching us. Why not to trust but that too, hopefully, will be something we deal with. Nick Francis  28:12 I think, you know, I think we have to, you know, it's, it's one of the tragedies of our age, I think, is that the, you know, we spent the 20th century, thinking that sex was the kind of ultimate sales tool. And then it took algorithms to for us to realize that actually anger and resentment are the most powerful sales tools, which is, you know, it's a it's something which, in time, we will work out, right? And I think the problem is that, at the minute, these tech businesses are in such insane ascendancy, and they're so wealthy that it's very hard to regulate them. And I think in time, what will happen is, you know, they'll start to lose some of that luster and some of that insane scale and that power, and then, you know, then regulation will come in. But you know whether or not, we'll see maybe, hopefully our civilization will still be around to see that. Michael Hingson  29:04 No, there is that, or maybe the Vulcans will show up and show us a better way. But you know, Nick Francis  29:11 oh, you know, I'm, I'm kind of endlessly optimistic. I think, you know, we are. We're building towards a very positive future. I think so. Yeah, it's just, you know, get always bumps along the way, yeah. Michael Hingson  29:24 So you named your company casual. Why did you do that? Or how did that come about? Nick Francis  29:30 It's a slightly weird name for something, you know, we work with, kind of, you know, global blue chip businesses. And, you know, casual is kind of the last thing that you would want to associate with, a, with a, with any kind of services business that works in that sphere. I think, you know, we, the completely honest answer is that the journalism course I did was television, current affairs journalism, so it's called TV cadge, and so we, when we made a film for a local charity as part of that course. Course, we were asked to name our company, and we just said, well, cash, cash casual, casual films. So we called it casual films. And then when my friend and I set the company up, kind of formally, to do the Mongol Rally, we, you know, we had this name, you know, the company, the film that we'd made for the charity, had gone down really well. It had been played at BAFTA in London. And so we thought, well, you know, we should just, you know, hang on to that name. And it didn't, you know, at the time, it didn't really seem too much of an issue. It was only funny. It was coming to the US, where I think people are a bit more literal, and they were a bit like, well, casual. Like, why casual, you know. And I remember being on a shoot once. And, you know, obviously, kind of some filmmakers can be a little casual themselves, not necessarily in the work, but in the way they present themselves, right? And I remember sitting down, we were interviewing this CEO, and he said, who, you know, who are you? Oh, we're casual films. He's like, Oh, is that why that guy's got ripped jeans? Is it? And I just thought, Damn, you know, we really left ourselves open to that. There was also, there was a time one of our early competitors was called Agile films. And so, you know, I remember talking to one of our clients who said, you know, it's casual, you know, when I have to put together a little document to say, you know, which, which supplier we should choose, and when I lay it on my boss's desk, and one says casual films, and one says agile films, it's like those guys are landing the first punch. But anyway, we, you know, we, what we say now is like, you know, we take a complex process and make it casual. You know, filmmaking, particularly for like, large, complex organizations where you've got lots of different stakeholders, can be very complicated. And so, yeah, we sort of say, you know, we'll take a lot of that stress off, off our clients. So that's kind of the rationale, you know, that we've arrived with, arrived at having spoken to lots of our clients about the role that we play for them. So, you know, there's a kind of positive spin on it, I guess, but I don't know. I don't know whether I'd necessarily call it casual again. I don't know if I'm supposed to say that or not, but, oh, Michael Hingson  32:00 it's unique, you know? So, yeah, I think there's a lot of merit to it. It's a unique name, and it interests people. I know, for me, one of the things that I do is I have a way of doing this. I put all of my business cards in Braille, so the printed business cards have Braille on them, right? Same thing. It's unique completely. Nick Francis  32:22 And you listen, you know what look your name is an empty box that you fill with your identity. They say, right? And casual is actually, it's something we've grown into. And you know it's we've been going for nearly 20 years. In fact, funny enough for the end of this year is the 20th anniversary of that first film we made for the for the charity. And then next summer will be our 20th anniversary, which is, you know, it's, it's both been incredibly short and incredibly long, you know, I think, like any kind of experience in life, and it's been some of the hardest kind of times of my entire life, and some of the best as well. So, you know, it's, it is what it is, but you know, casual is who we are, right? I would never check, you know? I'd never change it. Michael Hingson  33:09 Now, no, of course not, yeah. So is the actual name casual films, or just casual? Nick Francis  33:13 So it was casual films, but then everyone calls us casual anyway, and I think, like as an organization, we probably need to be a bit more agnostic about the outcome. Michael Hingson  33:22 Well, the reason I asked, in part was, is there really any filming going on anymore? Nick Francis  33:28 Well, that's a very that's a very good question. But have we actually ever made a celluloid film? And I think the answer is probably no. We used to, back in the day, we used to make, like, super eight films, which were films, I think, you know, video, you know, ultimately, if you're going to be really pedantic about it, it's like, well, video is a digital, digital delivery. And so basically, every film we make is, is a video. But there is a certain cachet to the you know, because our films are loved and crafted, you know, for good or ill, you know, I think to call them, you know, they are films because, because of the, you know, the care that's put into them. But it's not, it's, it's not celluloid. No, that's okay, yeah, well, Michael Hingson  34:16 and I know that, like with vinyl records, there is a lot of work being done to preserve and capture what's on cellular film. And so there's a lot of work that I'm sure that's being done to digitize a lot of the old films. And when you do that, then you can also go back and remaster and hopefully in a positive way, and I'm not sure if that always happens, but in a positive way, enhance them Nick Francis  34:44 completely, completely and, you know, it's, you know, it's interesting talking about, like, you know, people wanting to step back. You know, obviously vinyl is having an absolute as having a moment right now. In fact, I just, I just bought a new stylist for my for my record. Play yesterday. It sounded incredible as a joy. This gave me the sound quality of this new style. It's fantastic. You know, beyond that, you know, running a company, you know, we're in nine offices all over the world. We produce nearly 1000 projects a year. So, you know, it's a company. It's an incredibly complicated company. It's a very fun and exciting company. I love the fact that we make these beautifully creative films. But, you know, it's a bit, I wouldn't say it's like, I don't know, you don't get many MBAs coming out of business school saying, hey, I want to set up a video production company. But, you know, it's been, it's been wonderful, but it's also been stressful. And so, you know, I've, I've always been interested in pottery and ceramics and making stuff with my hands. When I was a kid, I used to make jewelry, and I used to go and sell it in nightclubs, which is kind of weird, but, you know, it paid for my beers. And then whatever works, I say kid. I was 18. I was, I was of age, but of age in the UK anyway. But now, you know, over the last few 18 months or so, I've started make, doing my own ceramics. So, you know, I make vases and and pictures and kind of all sorts of stuff out of clay. And it's just, it's just to be to unplug and just to go and, you know, make things with mud with your hands. It's just the most unbelievably kind of grounding experience. Michael Hingson  36:26 Yeah, I hear you, yeah. One of the things that I like to do is, and I don't get to do it as much as I would like, but I am involved with organizations like the radio enthusiasts of Puget Sound, which, every year, does recreations of old radio shows. And so we get the scripts we we we have several blind people who are involved in we actually go off and recreate some of the old shows, which is really a lot of fun, Nick Francis  36:54 I bet, yeah, yeah, sort of you know that connection to the past is, is, yeah, it's great radio. Radio is amazing. Michael Hingson  37:03 Anyway, what we have to do is to train some of the people who have not had exposure to old radio. We need to train them as to how to really use their voices to convey like the people who performed in radio, whatever they're doing, because too many people don't really necessarily know how to do that well. And it is, it is something that we're going to work on trying to find ways to get people really trained. And one of the ways, of course, is you got to listen to the old show. So one of the things we're getting more and more people to do when we do recreations is to go back and listen to the original show. Well, they say, Well, but, but that's just the way they did it. That's not necessarily the way it should be done. And the response is, no, that's not really true. The way they did it sounded natural, and the way you are doing it doesn't and there's reality that you need to really learn how to to use your voice to convey well, and the only way to do it is to listen to the experts who did it. Nick Francis  38:06 Yeah, well, it's, you know, it's amazing. The, you know, when the BBC was founded, all the news readers and anyone who appeared on on the radio to to present or perform, had to wear like black tie, like a tuxedo, because it was, you know, they're broadcasting to the nation, so they had to, you know, they had to be dressed appropriately, right, which is kind of amazing. And, you know, it's interesting how you know, when you, when you change your dress, when you change the way you're sitting, it does completely change the way that you project yourself, yeah, Michael Hingson  38:43 it makes sense, yeah, well, and I always enjoyed some of the old BBC radio shows, like the Goon Show, and completely some of those are so much fun. Nick Francis  38:54 Oh, great, yeah, I don't think they were wearing tuxedo. It's tuxedos. They would Michael Hingson  38:59 have been embarrassed. Yeah, right, right. Can you imagine Peter Sellers in a in a tux? It just isn't going to happen. Nick Francis  39:06 No, right, right. But yeah, no, it's so powerful. You know, they say radio is better than TV because the pictures are better. Michael Hingson  39:15 I agree. Yeah, sure, yeah. Well, you know, I I don't think this is quite the way he said it, but Fred Allen, the old radio comedian, once said they call television the new medium, because that's as good as it's ever going Nick Francis  39:28 to get. Yeah, right, right, yeah. Michael Hingson  39:32 I think there's truth to it. Whether that's exactly the way he said it or not, there's truth to that, yeah, but there's also a lot of good stuff on TV, so it's okay. Nick Francis  39:41 Well, it's so interesting. Because, you know, when you look at the it's never been more easy to create your own content, yeah, and so, you know, and like, in a way, TV, you know, he's not wrong in that, because it suddenly opened up this, this huge medium for people just to just create. Right? And, you know, and I think, like so many people, create without thinking, and, you know, and certainly in our kind of, in the in the world that we're living in now with AI production, making production so much more accessible, actually taking the time as a human being just to really think about, you know, who are the audience, what are the things that are going to what are going to kind of resonate with them? You know? Actually, I think one of the risks with AI, and not just AI, but just like production being so accessible, is that you can kind of shoot first and kind of think about it afterwards, and, you know, and that's never good. That's always going to be medium. It's medium at best, frankly. Yeah, so yeah, to create really great stuff takes time, you know, yeah, to think about it. Yeah, for sure, yeah. Michael Hingson  40:50 Well, you know, our podcast is called unstoppable mindset. What do you think that unstoppable mindset really means to you as a practical thing and not just a buzzword. Because so many people talk about the kinds of buzzwords I hear all the time are amazing. That's unstoppable, but it's really a lot more than a buzzword. It goes back to what you think, I think. But what do you think? Nick Francis  41:15 I think it's something that is is buried deep inside you. You know, I'd say the simple answer is, is just resilience. You know, it's, it's been rough. I write anyone running a small business or a medium sized business at the minute, you know, there's been some tough times over the last, kind of 1824, months or so. And, you know, I was talking to a friend of mine who she sold out of her business. And she's like, you know, how are things? I was like, you know, it's, it's, it's tough, you know, we're getting through it, you know, we're changing a lot of things, you know, we're like, we're definitely making the business better, but it's hard. And she's like, Listen, you know, when three years before I sold my company, I was at rock bottom. It was, I genuinely thought it was so stressful. I was crushed by it, but I just kept going. And she's just like, just keep going. And the only difference between success and failure is that resilience and just getting up every day and you just keep, keep throwing stuff at the wall, keep trying new things, keep working and trying to be better. I think, you know, it's funny when you look at entrepreneurs, I'm a member of a mentoring group, and I hope I'm not talking out of school here, but you know, there's 15 entrepreneurs, you know, varying sizes of business, doing all sorts, you know, across all sorts of different industries. And if you sat on the wall, if you were fly on the wall, and you sit and look at these people on a kind of week, month to month basis, and they all present on how their businesses are going. You go, this is this being an entrepreneur does not look like a uniformly fun thing, you know, the sort of the stress and just, you know, people crying and stuff, and you're like, gosh, you know, it's so it's, it's, it's hard, and yet, you know, it's people just keep coming back to it. And yet, I think it's because of that struggle that you have to kind of have something in built in you, that you're sort of, you're there to prove something. And I, you know, I've thought a lot about this, and I wonder whether, kind of, the death of my father at such a young age kind of gave me this incredible fire to seek His affirmation, you know. And unfortunately, obviously, the tragedy of that is like, you know, the one person who would never give me affirmation is my dad. And yet, you know, I get up every day, you know, to have early morning calls with the UK or with Singapore or wherever. And you know, you just just keep on, keeping on. And I think that's probably what and knowing I will never quit, you know, like, even from the earliest days of casual, when we were just, like a couple of people, and we were just, you know, kids doing our very best, I always knew the company was going to be a success act. Like, just a core belief that I was like, this is going to work. This is going to be a success. I didn't necessarily know what that success would look like. I just but I did know that, like, whatever it took, we would map, we'd map our way towards that figure it out. We'd figure it out. And I think, you know, there's probably something unstoppable. I don't know, I don't want to sound immodest, but I think there's probably something in that that you're just like, I am just gonna keep keep on, keeping on. Michael Hingson  44:22 Do you think that resilience and unstoppability are things that can be taught, or is it just something that's built into you, and either you have it or you don't? Nick Francis  44:31 I think it's something that probably, it's definitely something that can be learned, for sure, you know. And there are obviously ways that it can there's obviously ways it can be taught. You know, I was, I spent some time in the reserve, like the Army Reserve in the UK, and I just, you know, a lot of that is about teaching you just how much further you can go. I think what it taught me was it was so. So hard. I mean, honestly, some of the stuff we did in our training was, like, you know, it's just raining and raining and raining and, like, because all your kits soaking wet is weighs twice what it did before, and you just, you know, sleeping maybe, you know, an hour or two a night, and, you know, and there wasn't even anyone shooting at us, right? So, you know, like the worst bit wasn't even happening. But like, and like, in a sense, I think, you know, that's what they're trying to do, that, you know, they say, you know, train hard and fight easy. But I remember sort of sitting there, and I was just exhausted, and I just genuinely, I was just thought, you know, what if they tell me to go now, I just, I can't. I literally, I can't, I can't do it. Can't do it. And then they're like, right, lads, put your packs on. Let's go and just put your pack on. Off you go, you know, like, this sort of, the idea of not, like, I was never going to quit, just never, never, ever, you know, and like I'd physically, if I physically, like, literally, my physical being couldn't stand up, you know, I then that was be, that would be, you know, if I was kind of, like literally incapacitated. And I think what that taught me actually, was that, you know, you have what you believe you can do, like you have your sort of, you have your sort of physical envelope, but like that is only a third or a quarter of what you can actually achieve, right, you know. And I think what that, what the that kind of training is about, and you know, you can do it in marathon training. You can do it in all sorts of different, you know, even, frankly, meditate. You know, you train your mind to meditate for, you know, an hour, 90 minutes plus. You know, you're still doing the same. You know, there's a, there's an elasticity within your brain where you can teach yourself that your envelope is so much larger. Yeah. So, yeah, you know, like, is casual going to be a success? Like, I'm good, you know, I'm literally, I won't I won't stop until it is Michael Hingson  46:52 right, and then why stop? Exactly, exactly you continue to progress and move forward. Well, you know, when everything feels uncertain, whether it's the markets or whatever, what do you do or what's your process for finding clarity? Nick Francis  47:10 I think a lot of it is in having structured time away. I say structured. You build it into your calendar, but like, but it's unstructured. So, you know, I take a lot of solace in being physically fit. You know, I think if you're, if you feel physically fit, then you feel mentally far more able to deal with things. I certainly when I'm if I'm unfit and if I've been working too much and I haven't been finding the time to exercise. You know, I feel like the problems we have to face just loom so much larger. So, you know, I, I'll book out. I, you know, I work with a fan. I'm lucky enough to have a fantastic assistant who, you know, we book in my my exercise for each week, and it's almost the first thing that goes in the calendar. I do that because I can't be the business my my I can't be the leader my business requires. And it finally happened. It was a few years ago I kind of, like, the whole thing just got really big on me, and it just, you know, and I'm kind of, like, being crushed by it. And I just thought, you know what? Like, I can't, I can't fit other people's face mask, without my face mask being fit, fitted first. Like, in order to be the business my business, I keep saying that to be the lead in my business requires I have to be physically fit. So I have to look after myself first. And so consequently, like, you know, your exercise shouldn't be something just get squeezed in when you find when you have time, because, you know, if you've got family and you know, other things happening, like, you know, just will be squeezed out. So anyway, that goes in. First, I'll go for a bike ride on a Friday afternoon, you know, I'll often listen to a business book and just kind of process things. And it's amazing how often, you know, I'll just go for a run and, like, these things that have been kind of nagging away in the back of my mind, just suddenly I find clarity in them. So I try to exercise, like, five times a week. I mean, that's obviously more than most people can can manage, but you know that that really helps. And then kind of things, like the ceramics is very useful. And then, you know, I'm lucky. I think it's also just so important just to appreciate the things that you already have. You know, I think one of the most important lessons I learned last year was this idea that, you know, here is the only there. You know, everyone's working towards this kind of, like, big, you know, it's like, oh, you know, when I get to there, then everything's going to be okay, you know. And actually, you know, if you think about like, you know, and what did you want to achieve when you left college? Like, what was the salary band that you want? That you wanted to achieve? Right? A lot of people, you know, by the time you hit 4050, you've blown way through that, right? And yet you're still chasing the receding Summit, yeah, you know. And so actually, like, wherever we're trying to head to, we're already there, because once you get there, there's going to be another there that you're trying to. Head to right? So, so, you know, it's just taking a moment to be like, you know, God, I'm so lucky to have what I have. And, you know, I'm living in, we're living in the good old days, like right now, right? Michael Hingson  50:11 And the reality is that we're doing the same things and having the same discussions, to a large degree, that people did 50, 100 200 years ago. As you pointed out earlier, the fact is that we're, we're just having the same discussions about whether this works, or whether that works, or anything else. But it's all the same, Nick Francis  50:33 right, you know. And you kind of think, oh, you know, if I just, just, like, you know, if we just open up these new offices, or if we can just, you know, I think, like, look, if I, if I'd looked at casual when we started it as it is now, I would have just been like, absolute. My mind would have exploded, right? You know, if you look at what we've achieved, and yet, I kind of, you know, it's quite hard sometimes to look at it and just be like, Oh yeah, but we're only just starting. Like, there's so much more to go. I can see so much further work, that we need so many more things, that we need to do, so many more things that we could do. And actually, you know, they say, you know, I'm lucky enough to have two healthy, wonderful little girls. And you know, I think a lot of bread winners Look at, look at love being provision, and the idea that, you know, you have to be there to provide for them. And actually, the the truest form of love is presence, right? And just being there for them, and like, you know, not being distracted and kind of putting putting things aside, you know, not jumping on your emails or your Slack messages or whatever first thing in the morning, you know. And I, you know, I'm not. I'm guilty, like, I'm not, you know, I'm not one of these people who have this kind of crazy kind of morning routine where, like, you know, I'm incredibly disciplined about that because, you know, and I should be more. But like, you know, this stuff, one of the, one of the things about having a 24 hour business with people working all over the world is there's always things that I need to respond to. There's always kind of interesting things happening. And so just like making sure that I catch myself every so often to be like, I'm just going to be here now and I'm going to be with them, and I'm going to listen to what they're saying, and I'm going to respond appropriately, and, you know, I'm going to play a game with them, or whatever. That's true love. You know? Michael Hingson  52:14 Well, there's a lot of merit to the whole concept of unplugging and taking time and living in the moment. One of the things that we talked about in my book live like a guide dog, that we published last year, and it's all about lessons I've learned about leadership and teamwork and preparedness from eight guide dogs and my wife's service dog. One of the things that I learned along the way is the whole concept of living in the moment when I was in the World Trade Center with my fifth guide dog, Roselle. We got home, and I was going to take her outside to go visit the bathroom, but as soon as I took the harness off, she shot off, grabbed her favorite tug bone and started playing tug of war with my retired guide dog. Asked the veterinarians about him the next day, the people at Guide Dogs for the Blind, and they said, Well, did anything threaten her? And I said, No. And they said, there's your answer. The reality is, dogs live in the moment when it was over. It was over. And yeah, right lesson to learn. Nick Francis  53:15 I mean, amazing, absolutely amazing. You must have taken a lot of strength from that. Michael Hingson  53:20 Oh, I think it was, it was great. It, you know, I can look back at my life and look at so many things that have happened, things that I did. I never thought that I would become a public speaker, but I learned in so many ways the art of speaking and being relaxed at speaking in a in a public setting, that when suddenly I was confronted with the opportunity to do it, it just seemed like the natural thing to do. Nick Francis  53:46 Yeah, it's funny, because I think isn't public speaking the number one fear. It is. It's the most fit. It's the most feared thing for the most people. Michael Hingson  53:57 And the reality is going back to something that we talked about before. The reality is, audiences want you to succeed, unless you're a jerk and you project that, audiences want to hear what you have to say. They want you to be successful. There's really nothing to be afraid of but, but you're right. It is the number one fear, and I've never understood that. I mean, I guess I can intellectually understand it, but internally, I don't. The first time I was asked to speak after the World Trade Center attacks, a pastor called me up and he said, we're going to we're going to have a service outside for all the people who we lost in New Jersey and and that we would like you to come and speak. Take a few minutes. And I said, Sure. And then I asked him, How many people many people were going to be at the service? He said, 6000 that was, that was my first speech. Nick Francis  54:49 Yeah, wow. But it didn't bother me, you know, no, I bet Michael Hingson  54:54 you do the best you can, and you try to improve, and so on. But, but it is true that so many people. Are public speaking, and there's no reason to what Nick Francis  55:03 did that whole experience teach you? Michael Hingson  55:06 Well, one of the things that taught me was, don't worry about the things that you can't control. It also taught me that, in reality, any of us can be confronted with unexpected things at any time, and the question is, how well do we prepare to deal with it? So for me, for example, and it took me years after September 11 to recognize this, but one of the things that that happened when the building was hit, and Neither I, nor anyone on my side of the building really knew what happened. People say all the time, well, you didn't know because you couldn't see it. Well, excuse me, it hit 18 floors above us on the other side of the building. And the last time I checked X ray vision was fictitious, so nobody knew. But did the building shake? Oh, it tipped. Because tall buildings like that are flexible. And if you go to any tall building, in reality, they're made to buffet in wind storms and so on, and in fact, they're made to possibly be struck by an airplane, although no one ever expected that somebody would deliberately take a fully loaded jet aircraft and crash it into a tower, because it wasn't the plane hitting the tower as such that destroyed both of them. It was the exploding jet fuel that destroyed so much more infrastructure caused the buildings to collapse. But in reality, for me, I had done a lot of preparation ahead of time, not even thinking that there would be an emergency, but thinking about I need to really know all I can about the building, because I've got to be the leader of my office, and I should know all of that. I should know what to do in an emergency. I should know how to take people to lunch and where to go and all that. And by learning all of that, as I learned many and discovered many years later, it created a mindset that kicked in when the World Trade Center was struck, and in fact, we didn't know until after both towers had collapsed, and I called my wife. We I talked with her just before we evacuated, and the media hadn't even gotten the story yet, but I never got a chance to talk with her until after both buildings had collapsed, and then I was able to get through and she's the first one that told us how the two buildings had been hit by hijacked aircraft. But the mindset had kicked in that said, You know what to do, do it and that. And again, I didn't really think about that until much later, but that's something that is a lesson we all could learn. We shouldn't rely on just watching signs to know what to do, no to go in an emergency. We should really know it, because the knowledge, rather than just having information, the true intellectual knowledge that we internalize, makes such a big difference. Nick Francis  57:46 Do you think it was the fact that you were blind that made you so much more keen to know the way out that kind of that really helped you to understand that at the time? Michael Hingson  57:56 Well, what I think is being blind and growing up in an environment where so many things could be unexpected, for me, it was important to know so, for example, when I would go somewhere to meet a customer, I would spend time, ahead of time, learning how to get around, learning how to get to where they were and and learning what what the process was, because we didn't have Google Maps and we didn't have all the intellectual and and technological things that we have today. Well intellectual we did with the technology we didn't have. So today it's easier, but still, I want to know what to do. I want to really have the answers, and then I can can more easily and more effectively deal with what I need to deal with and react. So I'm sure that blindness played a part in all of that, because if I hadn't learned how to do the things that I did and know the things that I knew, then it would have been a totally different ball game, and so sure, I'm sure, I'm certain that blindness had something to do with it, but I also know that, that the fact is, what I learned is the same kinds of things that everyone should learn, and we shouldn't rely on just the signs, because what if the building were full of smoke, then what would you do? Right? And I've had examples of that since I was at a safety council meeting once where there was somebody from an electric company in Missouri who said, you know, we've wondered for years, what do we do if there's a fire in the generator room, in the basement, In the generator room, how do people get out? And he and I actually worked on it, and they developed a way where people could have a path that they could follow with their feet to get them out. But the but the reality is that what people first need to learn is eyesight is not the only game in town. Yeah, right. Mean, it's so important to really learn that, but people, people don't, and we take too many things for granted, which is, which is really so unfortunate, because we really should do a li

Send us a textIn this episode of The Near Memo, Greg Sterling and Mike Blumenthal talk with Michel of GMB API about what new data reveals regarding review removals, fraud detection, incentivized reviews, and regional legal differences across Europe and the U.S.The conversation explores why reviews are increasingly central to AI-driven search experiences, how enforcement tools can unintentionally harm small businesses, and what this all means for trust, visibility, and competition in local search.Subscribe to our newsletters and other content at https://www.nearmedia.co/subscribe/

Ziv Raviv's Micro Niche Podcasts model combines coaching with a full marketing agency (logo design, copywriting, web dev), delivering tangible results and justifying higher fees.Micro-Niche Strategy: Focus on a highly specific niche (3k–20k people) for rapid market entry. The small size enables high-touch outreach, turning a low reply rate (e.g., 2%) into enough collaborators for a full year of content.Podcast as a "Free Party": A podcast is the core tool for building trust and authority. Interviewing niche experts leverages their networks for audience growth and provides a platform for "listening harder" to discover real client needs.The 3-Test Validation Framework: Before committing, validate a niche with three tests: Findability (can you easily find people?), Braggability (will interviewees share the episode?), and Sellability (can you monetize the audience?).Summary of PodcastThe "Super Coaching" ModelZiv Raviv's "Fully Booked Coach" model defines "fully booked" as a sustainable 15–18 retainer clients, a number that avoids burnout.This model evolved from a standard coaching practice to "super coaching," which includes a full marketing agency stack.Rationale: Clients often need execution support, not just advice. This model delivers tangible results (e.g., a new logo) between sessions, justifying higher fees and increasing client retention.Micro-Niche StrategyCore Principle: Serving everyone means serving no one. A micro-niche enables focused, high-impact outreach and rapid market entry.Size Sweet Spot: 3,000 (minimum) to 20,000 (ideal maximum).Rationale: This size provides enough people for outreach but is small enough for high-touch, personalized communication.Findability Test: A niche must be easy to find.High Findability (4.5/5): Dentists, plumbers (use Google Maps, Sales Navigator).Low Findability (1/5): Introverted business owners (no public identifier).Significance: High findability is critical for rapid results (within 100 days).Podcast as a "Free Party"A podcast is the core tool for establishing authority and building trust in a new micro-niche.Strategy: Interview well-known niche experts.Benefit: Leverages their networks for initial audience growth.Benefit: Provides a platform for "listening harder" to uncover the niche's true problems and pivot the service offering accordingly.Monetization: The goal is to sell coaching/services, not ad sponsorships.Rationale: Micro-niches have small audiences (e.g., 100–1,000 downloads/episode), which is insufficient for ad revenue but highly effective for converting a few listeners into high-value clients.Niche Validation FrameworkUse this three-test framework to validate a niche before committing.1. Findability: Can you easily find and contact people in the niche?Example: Women studio photographers (easy via directories).2. Braggability: Will interviewees be proud to be featured and share the episode?Example: Model railway enthusiasts (high).Example: "Ugly Skin Disease Podcast" (low).3. Sellability: Can

Most healthcare clinics focus on Google Business Profile and their website for local SEO, but there's another listing you might be ignoring that still makes a difference. Believe it or not, your Yellow Pages online listing continues to carry weight with search engines and can boost your clinic's visibility.In this episode, you'll learn why Yellow Pages hasn't faded into the past, how it helps strengthen your local SEO, and the simple steps to optimize your listing so it works in your favor.If you want a quick, low-effort way to get found by more patients, this episode shows you how.Episode webpage, blog, and show notes: https://propelyourcompany.com/yellow-pages-local-seo/Send in your questions. ❤ We'd love to hear from you!NEW Webinar: How to dominate Google Search, Google Maps, AI-driven search results, and get more new patients.>> Save your spot

Sam Liang worked on the team that built the "blue dot" for Google Maps and now he's transforming how we think about meetings with Otter.ai. Fresh off crossing $100M in ARR with a lean team of less than 200, Sam joins us to discuss how Otter evolved from passive transcription to active AI agents that participate in your meetings. Learn practical strategies for building reliable voice AI, implementing enterprise knowledge bases, and deploying AI agents that actually deliver ROI.Resources mentioned:• Otter.ai $100M ARR announcement: https://otter.ai/blog/otter-ai-breaks-100m-arr-barrier• HIPAA compliance: https://otter.ai/blog/otter-ai-achieves-hipaa-complianceSubscribe to The Neuron newsletter: https://theneuron.ai

Most roofing marketing agencies sell paid ads, funnels, and “SEO packages” while ignoring the one thing that actually makes the phone ring: Google Maps, organic rankings, and AI search visibility. In this episode, we break down how DataPins uses real job-site photos, geo-coordinates, AI-generated content, and digital brand signaling to help roofers rank higher, get more calls, and stop guessing where leads come from.???? Want your roofing company to rank and get real calls?Call our Fort Worth team when you're ready to stop guessing and start showing up where homeowners actually search.(800) 353-5758 www.roofingwebmaster.com ???? Follow for no-BS roofing SEO, Google Maps tips, and lead-driven marketing. ‪@roofingwebmasters‬ 

Local link building might sound technical, but at its core it is about relationships, reputation, and smart healthcare marketing. In this episode, Darcy breaks down how clinics can earn high quality local links that boost visibility in Google Search and Google Maps without turning link building into a full time job.You will learn what local link building actually is, why it matters so much for clinic websites, and where to find realistic link opportunities in your own backyard. From referral partners and community organizations to local media and resource guides, you will walk away with a practical plan you can start using right away.In this episode of The Clinic Marketing Podcast, you will discover how to:Turn existing professional relationships into safe, sustainable linksUse local directories, associations, and community involvement to support local SEOCreate simple content that naturally attracts local linksEvaluate which link opportunities are worth your time and which to skipIf you handle healthcare marketing for a clinic and want more “near me” visibility, stronger rankings, and more of the right patients finding you online, this episode is for you.>> Episode webpage and blog: https://propelyourcompany.com/local-link-building/Send in your questions. ❤ We'd love to hear from you!NEW Webinar: How to dominate Google Search, Google Maps, AI-driven search results, and get more new patients.>> Save your spot

A casa conectada deixou de ser coisa do futuro e passou a fazer parte do dia a dia dos brasileiros. TVs, celulares, eletrodomésticos, câmeras, fechaduras e até robôs aspiradores dependem de uma coisa básica para funcionar bem: uma boa conexão Wi-Fi. Neste episódio do Podcast Canaltech, a gente conversa com Carlos Santos, especialista da TP-Link, sobre o papel central do Wi-Fi na casa digital. O papo passa pelos principais gargalos da internet doméstica, como interferências, roteadores antigos e excesso de dispositivos conectados, além de explicar, de forma prática, as diferenças entre Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6 e Wi-Fi 7. A entrevista também aborda como a inteligência artificial já está sendo usada para melhorar a estabilidade das redes, quando o sistema Mesh realmente faz diferença e o que esperar do futuro da conectividade doméstica no Brasil, com cada vez mais dispositivos inteligentes dentro de casa. Você também vai conferir: Google quer transformar suas abas abertas em aplicativos com IA, projeto de Sam Altman cria superapp com chat, carteira e biometria, amazon volta atrás e libera download de livros no Kindle, Gemini usa dados do Google Maps para tornar respostas mais visuais e malware para Android sequestra celular e espia vítima pela câmera. Este podcast foi roteirizado e apresentado por Fernada Santos e contou com reportagens de Viviane França, João Melo, Vinicius Moschen, Jaqueline Sousa, sob coordenação de Anaísa Catucci. A trilha sonora é de Guilherme Zomer, a edição de Livia Strazza e a arte da capa é de Erick Teixeira.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Discover how one Colorado tree service company generated 346 new 5-star reviews in just 90 days and skyrocketed their Google visibility using our automated review system. In this case study, we explains how consistent reviews can boost your Google Maps ranking, increase your Local Service Ad calls, and position your business far ahead of the competition. You'll see how tapping into an existing customer database, sending automated text and email follow-ups, and triggering review requests on every paid invoice helped this client climb to 960+ Google reviews and dominate their local market. This simple strategy can instantly elevate your online presence and drive 100–200+ calls a month, even if you're already established. If you want to grow your reputation, outperform competitors, and leverage the power of frequent reviews, this case study breaks it all down clearly. Watch this video to learn how to transform your business and attract more customers than ever. Join our FREE facebook group - Tree service marketing secrets! https://www.facebook.com/groups/treeservicemarketingsecrets Download our Ultimate Internet Marketing Checklist FREE: https://treeservicedigital.com/free-checklist/ Listen to our Podcast @ https://treeservicedigital.com/podcast/ Follow our new LinkedIn Page : https://www.linkedin.com/company/tree-service-digital-marketing/  

Ever wonder why some leaders seem to always be a step ahead while others keep relearning the same hard lessons? The quiet difference is a system: capture the experience, process it into something useful, and ship it so others move faster. We use a simple Google Maps analogy to make this vivid—data is useless until it becomes direction—and then break down how to build your own engine for turning life and work into assets.We reflect on the year as a practical frame for review, not a scoreboard for ego. What did the last twelve months teach you about clarity, alignment, and movement? We walk through the habits that make capture effortless, from a living “What Works” document to tagged notes and fast story collection. Then we show how to refine raw thoughts into checklists, prompts, playbooks, and short talks that people can actually use on Monday morning. This is how you grow influence without shouting: by building a body of work that others rely on.Finally, we map distribution tiers—personal, organizational, and public—so your knowledge reaches the right audience at the right fidelity. You'll hear how we turned years of consulting into courses, a book, and repeatable tools, and why the market consistently rewards clarity, speed, and usefulness. No fluff, no grandstanding—just a practical path to raising your impact and leaving a real legacy. If you're ready to stop letting your best insights evaporate and start shipping value, this conversation is your starting line.If this resonates, follow the show, share it with a teammate, and leave a quick review so more leaders can find it. What's one insight you'll capture and ship this week?--Visit the Lone Rock Leadership Website:https://www.lonerock.ioConnect with me on LinkedIn or to send me a DM:https://www.linkedin.com/in/russleads/Tap here to check out my first book, Decide to Lead, on Amazon. Thank you so much to the thousands of you who have already purchased it for yourself or your company! --About the podcast:The Lead In 30 Podcast with Russ Hill is for leaders of teams who want to grow and accelerate their results. In each episode, Russ Hill shares what he's learned consulting executives. Subscribe to get two new episodes every week. To connect with Russ message him on LinkedIn!

Send us a textIn this episode of Imperfect Marketing, I sit down with Joshua Thompson, a local SEO specialist with more than a decade of experience helping businesses show up where it matters most: in Google's local search results and Google Maps.We dive deep into why local SEO is evolving faster than ever, how AI is changing search behaviors, and what businesses should actually focus on instead of chasing shortcuts.From Accidental Marketer to Local SEO ExpertJosh shares his unique path—from building websites for financial leads to helping friends and family rank locally to eventually building and selling his own company. His entrepreneurial background shaped the customer-first, no-gimmicks SEO approach he uses today.Understanding Local SEO vs. Traditional SEOJosh breaks down what makes local SEO its own ecosystem:How Local SEO DiffersGoogle Maps and the Local Pack often matter more than organic rankingsLocal SEO relies heavily on trust signals (reviews, name-address-phone consistency, location data)Traditional SEO leans more on authority signals (backlinks, content depth)What Actually Matters for Local SEOReviews—the biggest local ranking driverAccurate listings (especially high-impact ones like Google, Yelp, Bing)Customer engagement signalsBuilding trust through consistent informationJosh emphasizes that directory listings aren't about gaming Google—they're about confirming your legitimacy.Cutting Through the Noise: AI, Voice Search & “Gaming the System”We tackle the recent buzz (and myths) about AI influencing search:AI “Hacks” & GimmicksJosh calls out trends like having “AI parties” in ChatGPT to influence rankings—explaining why tactics like these don't create real, lasting visibility.AI Search Is Still SearchAI tools still rely heavily on Google's resultsIf you show up in Google, you'll show up in AI responsesThe fundamentals haven't changed: content + trust + authority still winVoice Search Déjà VuJosh compares today's AI panic to the voice-search hype a decade ago—reminding us the sky didn't fall, and SEO fundamentals remained the same.The Rise of No-Click Searches & What It Means for BusinessesLocal businesses are seeing:More direct calls from Google Business ProfilesFewer website visitsGreater reliance on reviews and verified infoJosh explains why this is good news, especially for service-based businesses where customers want immediate answers—not long website visits.Preparing for What's NextJosh's advice for staying ahead is refreshingly simple:Stick to fundamentals: content, relevance, authority, and trustOptimize your Google Business Profile: reviews, photos, accuracyBuild momentum: keep improving in one direction instead of chasing every new trendAvoid shortcuts: they cost more time than they saveAs he puts it: “You don't get time back while you're searching for shortcuts.” Looking to leverage AI? Want better results? Want to think about what you want to leverage?Check and see how I am using it for FREE on YouTube. From "Holy cow, it can do that?" to "Wait, how does this work again?" – I've got all your AI curiosities covered. It's the perfect after-podcast snack for your tech-hungry brain. Watch here

In this episode, we break down Blogging 101 for clinics and healthcare practices. You will learn whether your clinic really needs a blog, how often you should publish, how long posts should be, and how to create content that not only attracts visitors but also turns them into new patients. We will cover how to fill content gaps, do simple keyword research, and position your clinic as a trusted authority in your specialty so you can grow your audience and boost your online visibility.Episode Webpage & Show Notes: https://propelyourcompany.com/blogging-101/Send in your questions. ❤ We'd love to hear from you!NEW Webinar: How to dominate Google Search, Google Maps, AI-driven search results, and get more new patients.>> Save your spot

Os consoles portáteis voltaram a ocupar um espaço gigante no mundo dos games e neste episódio do Podcast Canaltech, conversamos com Claudio Prandoni (Prandas), jornalista e especialista em videogames com mais de 20 anos de experiência, para entender por que esse mercado explodiu de novo. Do impacto do Nintendo Switch ao avanço de PCs portáteis como o Steam Deck, passando pela chegada de novos concorrentes como ROG Ally e Legion Go, Prandas explica o que está movimentando essa tendência, o que esperar do futuro e como Microsoft, PlayStation e outras marcas estão se posicionando nesse novo cenário. Uma conversa leve, profunda e cheia de contexto para quem ama games ou quer entender para onde a indústria está caminhando. Você também vai conferir: Google Maps passa a registrar automaticamente onde você estacionou, Facebook adota recursos do Instagram e muda experiência no feed, Google Fotos ganha editor de vídeos completo e desafia apps como o CapCut, Xiaomi prepara rastreador rival do AirTag com localização precisa e falha pode apagar todo o seu Google Drive sem nenhum clique. Este podcast foi roteirizado e apresentado por Fernada Santos e contou com reportagens de João Melo, Viviane França, Vinicius Moschen, Jaqueline Sousa, sob coordenação de Anaísa Catucci. A trilha sonora é de Guilherme Zomer, a edição de Vicenzo Varin e a arte da capa é de Erick Teixeira.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

James Mason, aka The Kentucky Technado talks with Jack about new features in Google Maps. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If your marketing plan is basically “try harder,” then pull up a chair. Kimberley and strategist Daniela Furtado lay out a no-nonsense, 12-month plan that finally puts an end to random posting and wishful thinking. They tackle the real stuff—niching with intention, setting goals you can actually hit, using Google Maps to your advantage, tightening up your website, and turning case studies into client magnets. This is the clarity you've been craving: a marketing roadmap that cuts the noise and tells you exactly what to do, when to do it, and what to ignore. IN THIS EPISODE WE LEARN: - Why most marketing plans fail after 3.7 months—and how to fix it. - How to analyze your past clients to find your most profitable niche. - The easiest way to boost visibility with Google Maps reviews. - How to design a service page that Google actually ranks. - Why case studies are your secret weapon for better clients. - What to focus on each month for steady growth. - How to forecast your marketing like a CEO—not a guesser.

 ✨ En este episodio íntimo del Diario de una Podcaster CEO te comparto lo que realmente significa cerrar el año con intención cuando lideras un negocio basado en contenido. Hablamos de productividad, claridad, límites, excelencia vs. perfeccionismo, y de cómo auditar tu año para entrar al siguiente con dirección, enfoque y estrategia.Te cuento lo que funcionó en mi negocio este año, lo que no, lo que aprendí de mis mentoras, cómo evalúo mis números, mis ofertas y mis procesos, y por qué escucharte a ti misma —y no a la versión antigua de ti— es clave para crecer como CEO.Este episodio es una invitación a cerrar tu año como una verdadera Podcaster CEO: con claridad, honestidad, valentía y dirección."Tu podcast no es tu negocio. Tu negocio es tu negocio. El podcast es la máquina que te ayuda a expandir tu negocio".

If Google Analytics (GA4) leaves you feeling confused, but you still want to know which marketing efforts are actually working, this episode is for you. I am walking you through a simple “analytics stack” for clinics where GA4 stays in place behind the scenes, and Clicky becomes your clear, real-time dashboard for quick decisions that lead to more booked appointments.You will hear what Clicky is, how it pairs with GA4, and which six numbers to check each week so your team can spot trends, fix issues fast, and keep your website and marketing moving in the right direction. I also explain how to set Clicky up in just a few minutes and how to turn the data into practical next steps, even if you are not a numbers person.Webpage, blog post, & shownotes: https://propelyourcompany.com/simple-website-traffic-tracker/>> Get Started with Clicky - https://clicky.com/66422350 We are affiliates for Clicky because we genuinely use and recommend it for clinics. There is a free plan you can start with, and on the episode blog and show notes page, you will find screenshots, step-by-step setup visuals, and more.Send in your questions. ❤ We'd love to hear from you!NEW Webinar: How to dominate Google Search, Google Maps, AI-driven search results, and get more new patients.>> Save your spot

In this East Tennessee Fishing Report from The Articulate Fly, host Marvin Cash connects with guide Ellis Ward to discuss the seasonal transition from brown trout to prime musky fishing on the French Broad River. Ellis breaks down why December is a great time to chase musky in East Tennessee, explaining how low water conditions create unique presentation opportunities and how recent rain is settling the river into its winter patterns. With baby number three arriving this week, Ellis shares his strategic approach to the December lull, focusing clients on musky fishing while brown trout actively spawn. In response to listener Austin's question about exploring new water, Ellis delivers a masterclass in scouting strategy, explaining how to use Google Maps to identify high-percentage areas like creek mouths, spring creek confluences and reservoir feeder streams throughout the region's extensive tailwater and lake systems. He emphasizes the importance of dedicated time on the water—three to four days per week minimum—to truly pattern any fishery, whether targeting stripers, smallmouth or trophy browns. Ellis wraps up by highlighting why January and February represent his favorite months for post-spawn trout fishing, promising "bonkers" days for anglers willing to brave the cold.To learn more about Ellis, check out our interview!Related ContentS6, Ep 142 - Winter Musky Adventures and Streamer Tactics with Ellis WardS6, Ep 146 - Musky Mysteries: Winter Tactics and Fly Tying Tips with Matt ReillyS7, Ep 14 - The Streamer Playbook: Tips and Tactics for Targeting Big Trout in East Tennessee with Ellis WardS6, Ep 139 - Exploring East Tennessee's Changing Waters with Ellis WardAll Things Social MediaFollow Ellis and Flyzotics on Instagram.Follow Ellis on YouTube.Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.Support the Show Shop on AmazonBecome a Patreon PatronSubscribe to the PodcastSubscribe to the podcast in the podcatcher of your...

This week on Sibling Rivalry, Monét is impressed by the new generation of counterfeit bags, and Bob tests her ability to tell real from fake and they wonder whether good cartoons are still being made. Monét declares Teyana Taylor the new It Girl, they discuss how a movie poster can make or break a film, and ask how much it costs to put up a billboard. Bob explains how buildings are demolished in NYC and talks about the chaos of their group chat. They compare phone etiquette, Monét gives an update on her missing wigs, and debate whether Google Maps counts toward screen time. Plus: going live while driving, being bad at texting, texting and driving, and whether LA or NYC changes how you respond to a woman crying on the street. Thanks to our sponsors: Head to https://DRINKAG1.com/RIVALRY you'll get the welcome kit, a Morning Person hat, a bottle of Vitamin D3+K2, a AG1 Flavor Sampler and you'll get to try their new sleep supplement AGZ for free. Stop putting off those doctors appointments and go to ⁠https://Zocdoc.com/RIVALRY⁠ to find and instantly book a top-rated doctor today! Ready to start? Visit ⁠https://WaldenU.edu⁠ today. Walden University. Set a Course for Change®. Certified to operate by SCHEV. Go to https://HomeChef.com/RIVALRY for 50% off your first box and free dessert for life! Want to see exclusive Sibling Rivalry Bonus Content? Head over to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.patreon.com/siblingrivalrypodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ to be the first to see our latest Sibling Rivalry Podcast Videos! @BobTheDragQueen @MonetXChange Learn more about your ad choices. Visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠megaphone.fm/adchoices⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices