Podcast appearances and mentions of sonia thompson

Modern marketing excels at personalization — until it reaches one consistent area where many brands still break down, costing them growth and frustrating customers in the process. In this milestone episode, Sonia Thompson explores The Glitch in Modern Marketing — and why brands that are otherwise sophisticated in growth marketing and customer acquisition often hesitate, stall, or retreat when identity enters the picture. Marketers know how to tailor products, experiences, and messaging by behavior, lifecycle stage, and preferences. But when personalization intersects with human identity, that rigor often disappears — replaced by assumptions and a return to “general market” thinking. This episode breaks down: Why identity shapes how customers decide what's “for someone like me” How general market marketing quietly creates friction and lost sales Why asking customers to adapt is no longer a neutral choice And how integrating identity completes personalization — instead of complicating it If growth feels harder than it should, this episode will help you see what's been missing — and how to fix it. Find out what's slowing your growth: www.frictionlessgrowthlab.com/quiz

Many brands are finding that the growth strategies that once worked aren't delivering the same results anymore. In this episode, Sonia Thompson breaks down the marketplace shifts reshaping brand growth strategy in 2026 and beyond — and why traditional growth playbooks are falling flat. From trust becoming a real constraint on growth, to discovery happening in entirely new ways, this episode explains what's changed in the market — and what brands need to do differently to grow today. If your brand's growth feels harder than it used to, this episode will help you understand why — and how to adapt your brand growth strategy for the market we're actually in. Take the Frictionless Growth Quiz to identify where your brand may be creating hidden friction: frictionlessgrowthlab.com/quiz Also mentioned in this episode: Episode 198: The Growth Strategy Behind Crayola's Global Initiative Engaging 17 Million Kids | Brand Strategy and Customer Acquisition Case Study - https://www.frictionlessgrowthlab.com/brand-ecosystem-crayola/

In year one, Crayola launched a global initiative expecting to engage about 500,000 kids. Instead, more than 2 million participated. Five years later, that same initiative now engages over 17 million kids across more than 120 countries. In this episode, Sonia Thompson breaks down the brand strategy and customer acquisition approach behind that scale with Crayola's Chief Marketing Officer. Together, they explore how the brand designed a global initiative rooted in inclusive marketing principles — and how focusing on engagement across the customer journey became a powerful engine for building trust, relationships, and long-term growth. You'll hear how Crayola: Used brand strategy to design a global initiative that scales year over year Approached customer acquisition through participation, not promotion Built an ecosystem across products, experiences, and content Applied inclusive marketing to engage diverse audiences worldwide This conversation offers a clear lesson for modern brands: sustainable growth comes from engaging customers throughout the journey — not just reaching them once. If you're curious how other billion-dollar brands are driving growth in today's market, I've linked my Billion-Dollar Brands Roadmap in the show notes. It breaks down the strategies leading brands are using to build relevance, trust, and loyalty at scale. - www.frictionlessgrowthlab.com/roadmap Crayola Creativity Week 2026 - https://www.crayola.com/learning/creativity-week

Marketing is shifting — and many brands feel it, even if they can't yet name it. In this episode, Sonia Thompson speaks with Bennie F. Johnson, CEO of the American Marketing Association, about the AMA 2026 Marketing Trends shaping the future of modern marketing and growth marketing. They unpack how trust in marketing, AI in marketing, and audience fragmentation are rewriting the rules of growth — driving up customer acquisition costs, raising expectations for relevance, and reshaping how brands build credibility in identity-driven communities. Drawing on insights from the AMA's 2026 Future Trends in Marketing research, this conversation explores what's changing beneath the surface — from responsible artificial intelligence, inclusive leadership, and evolving workforce models to the implications for growth strategy in today's complex marketing environment.

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work. This is part two of our Predictions 2026 series, where we ask leaders, researchers and thinkers what they believe is coming our way next year. If part one was warm and reflective, part two brings the heat!

Brand growth today depends on avoiding the marketing mistakes that quietly erode trust, relevance, and customer loyalty. In this episode of Frictionless Growth Marketing, Sonia Thompson breaks down the biggest marketing mishaps of 2025 and the critical lessons they reveal about brand growth, customer expectations, and modern marketing strategy. Drawing from real-world brand backlash and high-profile missteps, you'll learn how friction shows up in messaging, brand decisions, and customer experiences — and why those mistakes matter more than ever in today's values-driven, identity-rich market. This episode explores: • What 2025's biggest marketing mistakes reveal about brand growth • How misaligned messaging creates friction across the customer journey • Why trust, cultural relevance, and clarity are non-negotiable in modern marketing • What marketers must do differently to grow in 2026 and beyond If you want to build sustainable brand growth — without repeating the mistakes that cost other brands trust and traction — this episode will help you see what's really holding growth back, and how to move forward with clarity and confidence. Not sure where friction is holding your growth back? Take this quick quiz to see your biggest opportunities — and get matched with the podcast episodes you need most to eliminate friction that's slowing your growth: https://www.tryinteract.com/share/quiz/6945aaa3000543001536b23b

Most brands think their messaging is clear. Their customers often disagree. In this episode of Frictionless Growth Marketing, Sonia Thompson sits down with Dr. J.J. Peterson — marketing and communication expert, former Head of StoryBrand, and co-host of the globally top-ranked Marketing Made Simple podcast — to unpack how messaging can either remove friction or quietly block business growth at every stage of the customer journey. Together, they explore why unclear messaging is one of the most overlooked sources of friction in marketing — and how it leads to lost trust, stalled conversion, and missed growth opportunities, especially with today's identity-rich, values-driven consumers. This episode will help you spot where your messaging may be slowing customers down — and how to realign it to drive business growth. You'll learn: How unclear messaging creates friction across the customer journey Why customers need to see themselves in your story to take action How storytelling increases clarity, trust, and conversion Where brands unintentionally push customers away with their language and positioning How to communicate with empathy and authority — without sounding generic or salesy Why clear, human messaging is essential for sustainable business growth Dr. Peterson also shares powerful real-world examples, lessons from working with global brands, and insights on how leaders can show up as guides — not heroes — in their customers' stories. If you want to improve customer experience, remove messaging friction, and drive business growth through clearer, more human communication, this episode will help you see exactly where to start.

The Super Bowl, the Olympics, and the FIFA World Cup are all happening in 2026 — and they're not just sporting events. They're cultural events powered by identity, influence, community, and the underrepresented audiences shaping modern fandom. The brands that win next year won't be the ones with the biggest budgets — they'll be the ones with the deepest cultural understanding and the strongest consumer trust. In this episode of Frictionless Growth Marketing, Sonia Thompson — inclusive growth and customer experience strategist — sits down with Cesar Martinez, Chief Commercial Officer at Sonoro, the largest multicultural podcast network in the world. Together, they break down: • Why major 2026 cultural moments (Super Bowl, Olympics, World Cup) require a new marketing playbook• The identity-led communities driving modern sports fandom — and why they're essential for brand growth• How to connect meaningfully with Latino, Gen Z, and multicultural audiences (without pandering or stereotypes)• Why cultural competency is now a growth strategy, not a “nice to have”• The risks of getting it wrong — and the long-term benefits of getting it right• How brands of ANY size can show up in culture (even without a big-game budget) If your brand wants to grow in 2026 and beyond, this episode will show you exactly how to remove friction, build trust, and create marketing that resonates in moments that matter. Because the brands that understand and participate in culture will win next year and beyond. Work with Sonia Unlock sustainable, frictionless growth in your business: Friction Finder™ Growth Audit — Identify the friction points pushing customers away and learn exactly how to fix them - https://www.frictionlessgrowthlab.com/frictionfinder/ Frictionless Growth Roadmapping Session™ — Build a clear, confident plan for sustainable growth with today's customer - https://www.frictionlessgrowthlab.com/roadmapping/ Inclusive Growth Retainer — Partner with Sonia to optimize your customer journey, marketing, and experience for long-term growth - https://www.frictionlessgrowthlab.com/retainer Links from the episode: Sonoro - https://sonoromedia.com/ Cesar Martinez on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cesar-martinez-1b34376/

Consumers today aren't just buying products — they're buying alignment, transparency, cultural fluency, and trust. And trust has officially become one of the most powerful growth marketing levers a brand can pull. In this episode, Sonia Thompson — inclusive growth and customer experience strategist — breaks down what three real-world stories from LinkedIn, Disney, and Ralph Lauren reveal about the new rules of brand–consumer trust and how they directly impact growth, loyalty, and long-term revenue. From algorithmic bias to cultural accuracy to identity-centered storytelling, these case studies show exactly why frictionless, values-led, inclusive marketing isn't optional anymore — it's a competitive advantage. You'll learn: Why trust is now a core growth metric and a deciding factor in customer acquisition and loyalty How Disney's Moana backlash demonstrates the business impact of cultural accuracy and responsible creative decisions What Ralph Lauren's evolution teaches us about identity-driven brand building and long-term growth Why LinkedIn's algorithmic bias debate highlights the rising expectations around responsible AI and inclusive design How representation, transparency, and cultural fluency shape modern customer experience The specific behaviors today's consumers reward — and the ones that create friction, backlash, and brand erosion If you want to build a frictionless growth engine that resonates with today's identity-led, culturally connected consumers, this episode gives you the clarity and direction you need for 2026 and beyond. The LinkedIn post and article referenced from LinkedIn staff - https://www.linkedin.com/posts/sakshirjain_putting-members-first-testing-and-measuring-activity-7397384012421451776-M7A8/?utm_source=share&utm_medium=member_desktop&rcm=ACoAAADoGrYBxCncTQK1uoD5k0MgXOrx3330CMI

In this short reflection episode, Sonia Thompson — inclusive growth and customer experience strategist — shares the 2025 marketing shifts she's most grateful for… and what they signal for brands heading into 2026. This year, marketers saw consumers use their voices and their wallets more boldly than ever, brands standing firmer in their values, and more companies finally recognizing the power of growth communities — the underrepresented and underserved groups who are shaping culture, influence, and buying behavior. Inside the episode, you'll learn: Why consumer activism accelerated this year (and what it means for trust and loyalty) How values-led brands like Costco, GAP, and Levi's grew by staying true to what they stand for The rise of growth communities — and why they represent one of the biggest opportunities for modern marketers Why frictionless marketing isn't a trend… it's the future What these shifts mean for your 2026 growth strategy If you're focused on inclusion, customer experience, brand trust, or growth marketing, this episode will help you understand the cultural and strategic forces that will define the year ahead.

Even the most well-intentioned brands have hidden friction points buried throughout their customer journey — small, avoidable moments that quietly push ideal customers away. In this episode, Sonia Thompson, Inclusive Growth & Customer Experience Strategist, breaks down the most common friction patterns she uncovered while reviewing 50 brand websites across industries, markets, and brand sizes. You'll learn how gaps in representation, inclusive language, accessibility, and customer experience create invisible barriers that limit growth, reduce conversions, and weaken customer trust. Sonia shares real examples, surprising insights, and practical takeaways to help you identify (and eliminate) the friction costing your brand valuable engagement, loyalty, and revenue. If you care about inclusive marketing, customer acquisition, growth marketing, or building a customer experience designed for belonging, this episode will show you exactly where friction hides — and how removing it can transform your results. Get the roadmap billion-dollar brands use to win today's customers - https://inclusionandmarketing.com/roadmap/

Most brands want to grow — but too many still use the same old playbook. In this episode, Sonia Thompson — inclusive marketing and growth strategist — breaks down the four most common growth marketing mistakes keeping brands from reaching the influential and high-growth communities driving today's marketplace. From superficial inclusion to copy-and-paste campaigns, Sonia reveals what's really costing brands trust, loyalty, and ROI — and exactly how to fix it. You'll learn how to: ✅ Go beyond representation to build true connection ✅ Commit to the communities you serve — even when it's uncomfortable ✅ Design growth strategies that are inclusive and effective ✅ Replace one-off campaigns with loyalty that lasts Because today's fastest-growing brands don't just reach people — they resonate with them. Get the Inclusion & Marketing Newsletter - www.inclusionandmarketing.com/newsletter

If your ads, campaigns, or funnels aren't delivering like they used to, it's not just you — and it's not just the algorithm. The truth is, your growth marketing strategy might be out of sync with today's consumers. In this episode, Sonia Thompson, inclusive marketing and growth marketing strategist and host of Inclusion & Marketing, breaks down what's driving diminishing returns in growth marketing — and how to realign your strategy for today's world. You'll learn: Why traditional performance marketing tactics are losing effectiveness. How evolving consumer identities, values, and expectations are reshaping ROI. Three key shifts to modernize your growth marketing playbook — leading with identity, communicating values clearly, and building connection through every touchpoint. If your growth has stalled — or if you're ready to future-proof your marketing strategy — this episode will help you evolve how you grow, who you grow with, and how you connect. Because growth isn't broken — it's just misaligned.

Most growth marketing strategies start with what to do — launch a new campaign, open a new channel, or create a new product. But the fastest-growing brands today start somewhere very different: with who they're growing with. In this episode, Sonia Thompson, inclusive marketing strategist and host of Inclusion & Marketing, breaks down the mindset shift powering today's fastest-growing brands — the shift from what to who. You'll learn: Why effective growth marketing begins with people, not platforms. How brands like Stanley, Walmart, and Toyota built loyalty by serving growth communities. Practical ways to identify the audiences that will fuel your next stage of growth. Whether you lead marketing for a global brand or run a growing business, you'll walk away with a clear framework for designing growth marketing strategies that start with people — and deliver stronger, more sustainable results. Because when you start with who, the what takes care of itself. Get the Inclusion & Marketing Newsletter - www.inclusionandmarketing.com/newsletter

Most brands focus on awareness in their customer acquisition strategy—but neglect the proof that actually drives conversions. In this episode of Inclusion & Marketing, Sonia Thompson explains why relevant social proof is the missing piece that helps customers see themselves in your brand—and feel confident saying yes. You'll learn how to show “people like me succeed here,” why belonging matters just as much as benefits, and how to weave proof of success naturally into every part of your customer journey. If you want to turn more awareness into action—and more browsers into buyers—this episode is for you. Get the Inclusion & Marketing Newsletter - www.inclusionandmarketing.com/newsletter Other episodes in The New Rules of Customer Acquisition Series: 177. The #1 customer acquisition rule to boost conversions and maximize ROI - https://inclusionandmarketing.com/the-1-customer-acquisition-rule-to-boost-conversions-and-maximize-roi/ 178. Win more customers with these 17 proven customer acquisition strategies - Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/178-win-more-customers-with-these-17-proven-customer/id1604907821?i=1000723850008 | Spotify- https://open.spotify.com/episode/20g1LPHdTKonIi4Mg0mArn?si=6058bac77a364a62 183. How to increase the effectiveness of your customer acquisition strategy - Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/183-how-to-increase-the-effectiveness-of-your/id1604907821?i=1000729666137 | Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/episode/06uWd7kXFQNLtPsTYZFgQI?si=bce30052698a46d5

Most brands overlook underrepresented and underserved consumers — but these are the communities driving the biggest growth opportunities today. In this episode of Inclusion & Marketing, Sonia Thompson sits down with Edgar Hernandez, Chief Strategy Officer at MyCode, the U.S.'s largest multicultural media company. Together they unpack how MyCode helps brands grow by engaging the audiences most marketers ignore — and why “growth communities” should be at the center of every modern marketing strategy. You'll learn why inclusive marketing is growth marketing, what forward-thinking brands are doing differently, and how your team can use inclusion as a powerful driver of business results. Get the Inclusion & Marketing Newsletter - www.inclusionandmarketing.com/newsletter Edgar Hernandez - edgar@mycodemedia.com My Code - https://mycodemedia.com/

Most brands are eager to launch new campaigns and chase fresh leads. But here's the truth: if your foundation isn't strong, your customer acquisition strategy won't deliver the growth you want. In this episode of Inclusion & Marketing, Sonia Thompson breaks down why “getting your house in order” is the key to making any acquisition strategy more effective. You'll learn what most companies overlook, how to fix it, and the simple shifts that turn attention into actual conversions. If you want your customer acquisition efforts to work harder and deliver bigger results, this episode is your roadmap. Get the Inclusion & Marketing Newsletter - www.inclusionandmarketing.com/newsletter Other Episodes In This Customer Acquisition Series: The #1 Customer Acquisition Rule to Boost Conversions and Maximize ROI - https://inclusionandmarketing.com/the-1-customer-acquisition-rule-to-boost-conversions-and-maximize-roi/ Win More Customers With These 17 Proven Customer Acquistion Strategies: Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/178-win-more-customers-with-these-17-proven-customer/id1604907821?i=1000723850008 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/3hC7ezeDfhotEInmHDtL6Z

Want to start your own AI side hustle? Get our crash course here: https://clickhubspot.com/tyg Inclusive marketing isn't about political correctness or checking diversity boxes—it's a smart business strategy that builds fierce customer loyalty by making people feel valued. In an AI-dominated marketing world, the brands that win will be those that master the deeply human art of belonging. Sonia Thompson joins the show to tell you how to nail that. Plus: Costco reports higher earnings than expected and Meta rolls out ad free platforms in the UK. Join our host Jon Weigell as he take you through our most interesting stories of the day. Follow us on social media: TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehustle.co Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehustledaily/ Wanna watch this episode on YouTube? https://lnk.to/oxsURDRS Thank You For Listening to The Hustle Daily Show. Don't forget to hit subscribe or follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you never miss an episode! If you want this news delivered to your inbox, join millions of others and sign up for The Hustle Daily newsletter, here: https://thehustle.co/email/  If you are a fan of the show be sure to leave us a 5-Star Review, and share your favorite episodes with your friends, clients, and colleagues. The Hustle Daily Show is a part of Hubspot Media, produced by Darren Clarke, edited by Robert Hartwig with help from Alfred Schulz.

Inclusive marketing isn't about business as usual—it's about disrupting the status quo. In this episode, Sonia Thompson shares a live conversation from HubSpot's INBOUND conference with the co-founders of DRAFTED, a brand elevating Latinas and reshaping what the “general market” really means. You'll hear how they're challenging incorrect narratives, disrupting an entire male-centered industry, and putting overlooked consumers center stage. If you want to understand how inclusive disruption drives loyalty, growth, and cultural relevance, this conversation is a must-listen. Get the Inclusion & Marketing Newsletter - www.inclusionandmarketing.com/newsletter

Buyer personas are supposed to guide your marketing—but too often, they fall short. In this episode, Sonia Thompson, inclusive marketing strategist shares how to uplevel your buyer personas with simple identity-based shifts so they actually reflect your customers. You'll learn how to move beyond demographics, close the persona gap, and create campaigns that convert more people into loyal customers. Get the Inclusion & Marketing Newsletter: www.inclusionandmarketing.com/newsletter How to plan more inclusive business events with Eman Ismail - https://inclusionandmarketing.com/ep-130-how-to-plan-more-inclusive-business-events-with-eman-ismail/

Performance marketing is one of the most popular ways brands try to grow. But here's the problem: too often, leadership decisions create gaps that keep campaigns from reaching their full potential. In this episode, Sonia Thompson sits down with Laura Lee—growth marketing expert, fractional CMO, founder of LL Consulting, and board member of Asians in Advertising—to explore a major miss in performance marketing today. Together, they discuss how decisions around values, customer understanding, and whose voices get prioritized can mean the difference between clicks that fall flat and strategies that drive loyalty and growth. If you want to close the gap, strengthen trust, and ensure your marketing resonates with today's evolving consumer base, this episode is for you. Get the Inclusion & Marketing Newsletter - www.inclusionandmarketing.com/newsletter Laura Lee on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/llee01/ LL Consulting - https://www.linkedin.com/company/teamllconsulting/ Asians In Advertising - https://www.asiansinadvertising.com/

Cracker Barrel's logo redesign didn't just spark backlash—it exposed cracks in leadership decision-making. In this episode, Sonia Thompson shares 3 timeless marketing lessons every brand leader needs to keep their business backlash-proof. Discover how decisions around values, who's really in charge, and whose voices guide your strategy can make or break customer trust. Tune in for practical insights to help you lead with clarity, avoid costly missteps, and build a brand that resonates with today's consumers. Get the Inclusion & Marketing Newsletter -- www.inclusionandmarketing.com/newsletter

Want more customers? You need better customer acquisition strategies — ones that actually work in today's marketplace. Too many brands still take a passive “build it and they will come” approach, but today's consumers — especially those from underrepresented and underserved communities — don't show up where they haven't been invited. In this episode, Sonia Thompson, inclusive marketing strategist and host of Inclusion & Marketing, shares 20 proven customer acquisition strategies you can use to win more customers now. Organized into five key pillars — Visibility, Belonging, Experience, Voice, and Conversion — you'll hear real-world examples from brands like NYX, Mastercard, Toyota, and Ralph Lauren. Whether you're a marketing leader at a Fortune 100 company or an entrepreneur building your customer base, this episode is your playbook for attracting, converting, and keeping more of the people you want to serve. Stop waiting for customers to find you. Start inviting them in. Get the Inclusion & Marketing Newsletter - www.inclusionandmarketing.com/newsletter This is the 2nd episode in "The New Rules of Customer Acquisition" series. Listen to the first episode here: https://inclusionandmarketing.com/the-1-customer-acquisition-rule-to-boost-conversions-and-maximize-roi/

Today's episode is a little different because the mic's turned on me.This conversation was originally recorded for Sonia Thompson's Inclusion and Marketing podcast, and it was such an important one, I wanted to share it with you here too.Sonia and I talk about what it really means to plan inclusive business events – especially for people who identify as being underrepresented or underserved communities.I share my personal experiences as a visibly Muslim woman who doesn't drink alcohol or engage in physical contact with men, and how that's often made it difficult to fully participate in professional events.From dodging hugs and skipping networking sessions at bars… to sparking an accidental ice cream social that everyone wanted to join… this episode is full of honest reflections, lightbulb moments, and actionable ideas for making your events (and your business) more inclusive for everyone.If you've ever felt like you didn't quite fit in at a business event – or you're someone who wants to create safer, more welcoming spaces for all your attendees – this one's for you.Thank you to Sonia for hosting such a thoughtful conversation, and for letting me share it with you here.Listen and subscribe to the Inclusion and Marketing podcast here >> https://inclusionandmarketing.com/category/podcast/Loving the podcast?Support the show and leave a rating or review here: https://ratethispodcast.com/mistakesGet the BTS scoop on how this podcast is made in this bonus episode: https://emancopyco.com/btsWork with Eman Copy Co. to power up your email strategy, your launches, and your revenueFill in the enquiry form on this contact page: https://emancopyco.com/contact/Want to learn with me?Take Eman's “What's Your Perfect Newsletter Style?” quiz: https://www.emancopyco.com/quiz Check out my courses and masterclasses: https://emancopyco.com/learn-with-me/Say hi

IN CLEAR FOCUS: For Juneteenth and Pride Month, Bigeye Strategy intern Wilberline Previlon explores inclusive marketing. We revisit podcast interviews wth thought leaders, including Pepper Miller and Sonia Thompson, and rediscover how understanding history, language, and identity can shape authentic brand strategies. We hear from Sandy Skees about the difference between being an ally, advocate, or activist, and why cultural nuance is essential for connecting with LGBTQIA+ and minority audiences.  

Welcome back to Truth, Lies & Work, the award-winning psychology podcast brought to you by the HubSpot Podcast Network. If you love hearing how organisations, big and small, have built amazing workplace cultures, then our Thursday episodes are for you. But today, it's all about the Weekly News Roundup, Hot Takes, and of course, the famous Workplace Surgery, where we answer your burning workplace questions. Segment 1: News Roundup Salary Transparency and Gen Z Talent Leanne dives into a major shift: salary transparency is becoming crucial for attracting Gen Z talent. A new survey reveals that 85% of Gen Z workers are less likely to apply for a job if the salary isn't listed. Read the full article. Childless Bosses: Lacking Empathy? Al discusses controversial new research that questions whether childless bosses lack empathy. Read more. Cynicism's Impact on Leadership Leanne explores a new study on cynicism and its detrimental effect on leadership. Read more. Segment 2: Hot Takes This week's Hot Take comes from Sonia Thompson, inclusive marketing consultant and host of the Inclusion and Marketing Podcast. Sonia's bold insight? Stop expecting people to assimilate. Brands and employers need to embrace diversity by acknowledging differences and creating environments where everyone feels they belong—without having to change who they are. Sonia shares her thoughts on why inclusion is more than just a buzzword; it's a necessity for the future of work and marketing. Segment 3: Weekly Workplace Surgery Leanne answers listener questions: Defining Company Values in a Growing Team A founder is feeling the pressure to define core values for a growing team ahead of an all-hands retreat. ce. Fear of Change in Family Business Succession A business owner is worried that handing over control to his daughter and her partner will lead to drastic changes in the company's traditional values. Fostering Culture in a Remote Team A CEO of a global marketplace is struggling to maintain a cohesive company culture with a remote team spread across four continents. More from Sonia: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniaethompson/ Podcast: https://inclusionandmarketing.com/author/soniaethompson/ Support with Mental Health and Well-being If any of the topics in this episode have affected you, or if you need mental health support, please reach out to one of the following resources: UK: Mind offers mental health support and information. For those in distress, call Samaritans at 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org. US: Contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK or text HOME to 741741 to connect with a crisis counselor. Rest of the World: Visit Befrienders Worldwide to find a helpline in your country. Connect with Truth, Lies & Work YouTube: Truth, Lies & Work YouTube Channel TikTok: Truth, Lies & Work TikTok Instagram: Truth, Lies & Work Instagram LinkedIn: Truth, Lies & Work LinkedIn Connect with Al Elliott: LinkedIn Connect with Leanne Elliott: LinkedIn Email: Reach out at hello@truthliesandwork.com. Book a Meeting: Schedule a meeting with Al & Leanne here.

In this 'Commission Conversation' Geoff Barton, Chair of the Independent Commission on the Future of Oracy Education in England, talks to commissioners Sonia Thompson, Stephen Coleman and Sarah Houghton about their reflections on the Commission's deliberations.

Sonia Thompson is a well-known and well-respected inclusive marketing strategist, consultant, and coach. She shares her journey of going from feeling completely directionless in her business, to being THE go-to inclusive marketing expert and being regularly featured in publications like Forbes, Inc, and Hubspot.In this episode, we chat about the impact of niching, as well as why even smaller brands and businesses should make the effort to be inclusive in their marketing.00:00 Introduction05:02 Meet Sonia36:54 Sonia's mistake01:07:36 How this mistake made Sonia01:20:15 What you can learn from Sonia's experience01:22:06 Final thoughtsLinks from the show:Grab Eman's Nail Your Niche masterclass: https://inkhouse.lpages.co/nail-your-niche/ Check out Sonia's website: www.inclusionandmarketing.com Join Sonia's newsletter: www.inclusionandmarketing.com/newsletter Listen to the Inclusion & Marketing Podcast: https://link.chtbl.com/6vXcKyF_ Find the transcript of this episode on my site, emancopyco.com/podcast If you loved this episode, take a screenshot, post it on Instagram, and tell everyone you know that this is the podcast to listen to. Don't forget to tag me! @emancopyco.Loving the podcast?Join the podcast's private membership and unlock bonus content: https://emancopyco.com/membershipSupport the show and leave a rating or review here: https://ratethispodcast.com/mistakesGet the BTS scoop on how this podcast is made in this bonus episode: https://emancopyco.com/btsWork with Eman Copy Co. to power up your email strategy, your launches, and your revenueFill in the enquiry form on this contact page: https://emancopyco.com/contact/Want to learn with me?Check out my courses and masterclasses: https://emancopyco.com/learn-with-me/Say hi

Sonia Thompson, marketing strategist and host of the Inclusion & Marketing podcast, is talking too loud about a trend that is sweeping women's elite sports: ditching white shorts. Savage is talking too loud about Wistia's Austin offsite, a company-wide competition that consisted of building small arches from sugar cubes, and shooting a product spotlight video in a cowboy costume. Yee-haw!Sylvie is talking too loud about Montreal and how – much to the surprise of everyone, everywhere (all at once) – she prefers their bagels to New York's bagels. Links to learn more about Sonia:Sonia's LinkedInFollow us:twitter.com/wistiaSubscribe:wistia.com/series/talking-too-loudLove what you heard? Leave us a review!We want to hear from you!Write in and let us know what you think about the show, who you'd want us to interview on future episodes, and any feedback you have for our team.

In this episode, Joe Fier engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Sonia Thompson, a marketing expert specializing in inclusive marketing and customer experiences. Sonia shares insights from her surveys so that businesses can better understand and cater to diverse customer needs. She emphasizes the need for businesses to be intentional about serving specific identities and provides valuable advice on inclusive marketing strategies. With her extensive background in marketing and inclusive practices, Sonia shares valuable insights that can help businesses create a sense of belonging and improve customer experiences. The Importance of Inclusive Marketing Sonia emphasizes the need for businesses to be intentional about serving specific identities and provides examples of companies that have successfully expanded their customer base through inclusive marketing efforts. Advancements in Inclusive Technology The conversation delves into the advancements in AI technology, making inclusivity easier and cheaper for businesses, highlighting the impact of small details on customer experience and the need to consider diverse identities in marketing efforts. Strategies for Building Inclusive Brands Sonia discusses the concept of inclusive marketing assessments as a way to identify and address customer experience friction for underrepresented and underserved communities, offering a quiz and newsletter for further guidance. Internal Mindset Shift for Inclusive Marketing Thompson highlights the internal mindset shift required for businesses to consistently deliver inclusive marketing, aiming to build an inclusive brand rather than creating inclusive marketing campaigns. Two Other Episodes You Should Check Out How To Be Seen & Unleash Your Authentic Brand with Jen Gottlieb Why Entrepreneurs Struggle with Happiness with Joe Fier Resources From Episode Accelerate growth with HubSpot's Sales Hub Check out other podcasts on the HubSpot Podcast Network Grab a 30-Day Trial of Kartra See the latest from Sonia Thompson at Inclusion and Marketing.com Listen to the Inclusion and Marketing Podcast See if HeyGen can help in your inclusive marketing Contact Joe: joe@hustleandflowchart.com Thanks for tuning into this episode of the Hustle & Flowchart Podcast! If the information in these conversations and interviews have helped you in your business journey, please head over to iTunes (or wherever you listen), subscribe to the show, and leave me an honest review. Your reviews and feedback will not only help me continue to deliver great, helpful content, but it will also help me reach even more amazing entrepreneurs just like you!

Marketing that truly acknowledges and values diversity isn't just important—it's imperative. Creating a welcoming space for everyone can seem complex, maybe even a bit overwhelming, but it doesn't have to be. Simple accommodations and thoughtful options can go a long way. So what are some ways businesses are implementing inclusive marketing to make their customers feel seen and valued?   In this Deep Dive episode, host April Sunshine Hawkins delves into the realm of inclusive marketing, drawing inspiration from Sonia Thompson's interview in our last episode (Episode #139). Through her recent experiences with Nashville Children's Theatre, April explores how marketing can be tailored to be more welcoming of neurodiverse audiences. She underscores the importance of embracing all diversity in marketing and offers creative strategies for businesses to help their customers feel a sense of belonging. Tune in for insight and ideas on how you can start expanding your efforts to cater to a wider audience!   Referenced in this episode:   Inclusion and Marketing Podcast Episode #85 - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/85-lessons-in-belonging-from-beyonces-renaissance-world/id1604907821?i=1000635016030   Nashville Children's Theatre - https://nashvillechildrenstheatre.org   --   CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING HEADING INTO THE 2024 AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7   TURN YOUR WEBSITE INTO A SALES MACHINE WITH THE ULTIMATE WEBSITE TEMPLATE: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Website   HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com   HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey   STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

For many marketers, it's a big challenge to make sure their strategies are inclusive. They understand why it's important, but turning this into real, quantifiable marketing strategies is another story. And if they don't get it right, they risk ignoring a wide range of customers and failing to make everyone feel included. So what are some ways to deliver remarkable experiences that make your customers feel like they belong?   In today's episode, hosts J.J. and April welcome Sonia Thompson, host of the Inclusion and Marketing Podcast and a former diversity and inclusion champion at Johnson & Johnson. Sonia is here to give you real-world tips on how to make marketing more welcoming to different types of customers. You'll learn about choosing the right customers to focus on, getting to know them well, checking how your business is doing in this area, and making changes to improve. Listen in to get useful ideas on how to make your business more inclusive and build stronger relationships with your customers!   Follow and listen to the Inclusion and Marketing Podcast.   --   CLARIFY YOUR MARKETING HEADING INTO THE 2024 AND CREATE YOUR FREE BRANDSCRIPT: Storybrand.com/sb7   TURN YOUR WEBSITE INTO A SALES MACHINE WITH THE ULTIMATE WEBSITE TEMPLATE: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Website   HIRE A STORYBRAND CERTIFIED GUIDE TO HELP CREATE THE MARKETING AND MESSAGING YOUR BUSINESS NEEDS TO GROW: MarketingMadeSimple.com   HELP US DELIVER EVEN MORE VALUE EACH WEEK BY COMPLETING OUR HERO MAKER SURVEY: StoryBrand.com/Survey   STORYBRAND INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/StoryBrand

Making your customers feel like your product or service is tailored specifically for them is the key to inclusive marketing. Inclusive marketing expert Sonia Thompson joins us today on the podcast to share more on how to integrate inclusive marketing into your customer experience.  Tuning in, you'll hear all about Sonia's career, how you can diversify your products and circle of influence, how to audit your customer experience to be more inclusive, the importance of considering how different people are and making them feel seen and heard, why you must stay true to your values, and much more!  We delve into some ways you can infuse inclusion in your marketing before discussing why your work environment needs to be inclusive in order for your customers to feel welcome. Finally, Sonia tells us how she can help in the ongoing evolutionary inclusion journey.  This episode is brought to you by our Email Marketing For Product Makers guide. 49% of our customers want to hear from us on a consistent basis, yet, only a small percentage of product-based business owners are actively sending monthly emails to their customers.   If you've struggled with what to say, when to send, or how to plan out your email marketing strategies, we've got just the tool for you. This tool and the optional training have helped hundreds of product makers plan out an entire year's worth of emails.  And, the best part… they are creating templates that they can rinse & repeat year after year.   DOWNLOAD NOW You can view full show notes and more at prooftoproduct.com/313 Quick Links: Free Wholesale Audio Series Free Resources Library Free Email Marketing for Product Makers PTP LABS Paper Camp

Hello and welcome to another episode of the Intersection Podcast! This week we are joined by Sonia Thompson. Sonia is a luminary in the realm of inclusive marketing and branding. As an inclusive brand coach, strategist, and consultant, Sonia has carved out a niche by helping brands expand their reach by authentically catering to a diverse clientele. Not only does she boast a formidable resume with columns in prestigious publications like Forbes, but she also leads the conversation on belonging in the business world through her podcast, the 'Inclusion and Marketing' podcast. With an expansive career, insightful viewpoints, and the unique experience of having lived in diverse locales like Argentina, Sonia offers a refreshing perspective on why businesses must prioritize inclusivity for success.We explore the following topics in our conversation today:Sonia's strategies on how brands can grow by effectively connecting with a diverse customer base and the significance of varying consumer journeys.Unraveling the challenges of ageism in the digital space, the importance of diversity within teams, and how homogenous thinking can hinder a brand's potential for inclusivity and growth.Exploring the profound impact of feeling seen and acknowledged in the business world, especially for women and people of color.Sonia shares, “I firmly believe that everyone deserves to have a place where they feel like they belong.” Thank you for listening to this episode of The Intersection Podcast. Don't forget to subscribe and stay tuned for more thought-provoking conversations. Together, we can create a world where diversity is celebrated, and everyone thrives.Resources: Inclusion and Marketing Sonia Linkedin Sonia Instagram 

Watch the #1 PR Secrets Masterclass to get you featured for free in 30 daysJoin the Small Biz PR Facebook Group to get the best PR TipsDownload the 10 ways to get free PR for your small businessIn this episode I'm joined by Sonia Thompson to discuss the importance of building authentic, diverse communities around your business and how anyone can expand their perspective and understanding of others. Key points:My background and biz origin story How I cultivated my diverse community Rewriting narratives and media representation Improve diversity with being open minded and awareUsing your platform to elevate your community Resources Mentioned:Join Gloria Chou's PR Community: Small Biz Pros: By Gloria ChouIf you want your small business to go from invisible to visible, seen, and valued, register for my FREE PR Secrets Masterclass. Soon enough, your credibility and visibility will skyrocket! Register now at www.gloriachoupr.com/masterclass. Additional Resources:Get the PR Starter Pack10 Story Angles to PitchLet's connect on InstagramI'd love to invite you to my brand new PR Secrets masterclass, where I reveal how anyone can get PR for the business (no experience necessary!). Go to gloriachoupr.com/masterclass to watch for free!

Amy welcomes Sonia Thompson, the Inclusive Marketing Coach, Strategist, and Consultant of Thompson Media Group, to the Including You podcast this week. Connect with Sonia on LinkedIn. https://bit.ly/3smPHgd Including You is brought to you by Lead at Any Level. Learn more about them on their website. http://bit.ly/2lPvOMM

Imagine building an inclusive network or business so strong, it resonates with everyone you meet. That's exactly what Sonia Thompson, an esteemed inclusive marketing strategist, helps us explore. Sonia and I traverse the fascinating landscape of creating a community within your enterprise that not only aligns with your values but also connects authentically with your customers and team members. She sheds light on the importance of considering who you pay, collaborate with, and feature in your business and how these decisions impact the sense of belonging within your diverse community. Sonia and I continue our journey by guiding you through the art of building genuine relationships while steering clear of stereotypes. We delve into how network marketers and small business owners can use inclusive marketing strategies to form meaningful connections with diverse communities. Sonia emphasizes the relevance of immersion over market research, adding a deeper layer to our understanding of different cultures. You can find Sonia on…Instagram https://www.instagram.com/soniaethompson/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniaethompson/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/soniaethompson/Want more from Dr. Raymona?Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drraymonahlawrence/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/drraymonahlawrence/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/drraymonahlawrence/Thank you for listening! ~Dr. Raymona

In the latest episode of The Influence Factor, Alessandro Bogliari, CEO & Co-Founder of The Influencer Marketing Factory and podcast host, is joined by Sonia Thompson, Inclusive Brand Strategist, Coach, and Consultant. Together, they explore various facets of brand inclusivity and discuss actionable steps to integrate this essential element into the DNA of a brand.

Superstar Sonia Thompson, inclusive marketing expert and fellow HubSpot Podcast Network host of Inclusion & Marketing Podcast joins AugMentors to share her recommendations for creating a feeling of inclusion in mentoring relationships that can create a sense of belonging and lifelong impact.   Using the AugMentors principle of vision, Sonia shares her unique experience and key tips on how to get to where you vision yourself to be.  Takeaways include: How communication skills bring people together The power of believing in yourself Why is it important to tailor fit your mentoring strategy to each relationship Tips for a successful mentoring journey in a workplace setting Want to connect with or work with Sonia Thompson to learn more?  Find out more here! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniaethompson/  Her Website: https://inclusivemarketing.co/  Two energetic entrepreneurs host a leadership podcast for those looking to connect more authentically with others and grow to their potential through mentoring.   The AugMentors podcast is now Part of the HubSpot Podcast Network, the audio destination for business professionals. Learn more about how Hubspot can help your business grow better at http://hubspot.sjv.io/Xxb224 If you would like to be a guest on AugMentors, email us at hi@augmentors.us.  We'd love to hear your story! Our Website:  Homepage Subscribe with us on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/augmentors-us Youtube:  AugMentors Follow us on: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/augmentorshq/

How do you create meaningful change in your industry, even if you're not famous or well-known in your space yet? By having the audacity to show up! Today's guest shares how she not only landed her biggest podcast interview to date but also was the catalyst for creating a more diverse stage at a well-known conference for video marketers, by simply having the audacity to show up and let her voice be heard. Sonia Thompson, the founder of the Inclusive Marketing podcast, and an inclusive marketing strategist, consultant, and educator, walks us through the IG Live and DM that sparked a bigger conversation on the lack of diversity and representation in conference panel lineups - and ultimately led to her landing her biggest podcast interview yet, and created a more diverse stage. CONNECT WITH SONIA: https://inclusivemarketing.co/category/podcast/ https://www.soniaethompson.com/about-sonia-thompson/ https://www.instagram.com/soniaethompson/ EPISODE RESOURCES: Join the Mastermind: https://shinewithnatasha.com/mastermind CONNECT WITH NATASHA: Website: https://shinewithnatasha.com/podcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shinewithnatasha/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL2BMkT_7jIu5NeV_yAXScw

Are you struggling to build an inclusive brand that attracts and retains diverse customers and talent? Get ready to be inspired and equipped with the knowledge you need as we welcome our special guest, Sonia Thompson. She's an inclusive brand coach and strategist, with nearly two decades of experience in marketing, including nine years in healthcare marketing. But what really sets Sonia apart is her personal journey, which led her to become an advocate for creating inclusive brands that attract and retain diverse customers and talent.As someone who has felt the frustration of not belonging, Sonia knows firsthand how critical it is for everyone to feel included. That's why she's dedicated herself to helping business leaders, entrepreneurs, and business owners create welcoming and inclusive environments for both their teams and customers.In this episode, you'll hear about Sonia's inspiring journey, as well as her expert advice on how to build an inclusive brand that resonates with your audience. Sonia walks us through her 5 “C” Framework which talks about the importance of understanding your customers' differences and how to create a culture that celebrates diversity.Whether you're struggling to attract diverse talent or want to create a more inclusive environment for your team and customers, this episode is for you. So tune in and get ready to be inspired and equipped with the knowledge you need to build a more inclusive brand.Brought to you by the Shop 1 in 5™ Pledge! Commit to making 1 in 5 of your purchases from a small business, whether online or offline. The Shop 1 in 5™ Pledge is a way to make an impact together when (and where) it matters most. Join us and take the pledge today!Resources:Newsletter: inclusionandmarketing.comProgram: inclusivebrandacademy.comInclusion & Marketing PodcastInstagram: @soniaethompsonTwitter: @soniaethompsonConsistent content is key to getting more people to see and buy your products. If you want to create great content but you don't know what to say, or you feel too busy, or you just don't want to be the face of your brand, no worries – because we've got you covered with a year's worth of consistent content that's sure to resonate with your audience! If you want to see how easy this can be, visit A Year of Content.Connect:Website: theproductboss.comInstagram: @theproductbossMentioned in this episode:HubSpotLearn how your business can grow better with HubSpot:HubSpot Podcast NetworkOnline Marketing Made Easy Listen to Online Marketing Made Easy with Amy Porterfield Online Marketing Made Easy

Reaching diverse and underserved communities starts internally by considering who you're featuring, who's on your team, your culture, and your values. Beyond marketing, customers want to know how you really are, not just what you want them to see. On this week's episode, Dr. Raymona talks with Sonia Thompson about forming real connections, relationships over transactions, and the importance of customers feeling like they belong.Sonia is an inclusive marketing strategist, coach, educator, and speaker who helps businesses build inclusive brands that attract and retain diverse customers and talent. She hosts the Inclusion & Marketing Podcast and writes columns for Forbes and Inc. on how brands can use inclusive marketing, belonging, and remarkable customer experiences to grow.You can find Sonia on…Instagram https://www.instagram.com/soniaethompson/LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniaethompson/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/soniaethompson/Want more from Dr. Raymona?Instagram https://www.instagram.com/drraymonahlawrence/?hl=enLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/drraymonahlawrence/Facebook https://www.facebook.com/drraymonahlawrence/Thank you for listening! ~Dr. Raymona

What is the impact of representation – and conversely not seeing yourself represented in the visual imagery you see?What is the downside to your brand of participating in events that aren't diverse and representative?How can business owners exercise their influence and power to increase diversity and inclusion?These questions and more will be answered in today's episode.My guest today, Sonia Thompson is an inclusive marketing strategist, consultant, coach, and speaker that helps businesses attract and retain diverse customers and talent.I couldn't think of a better person to tackle this topic with me, educate all of us about the how and why of diversifying conference speaker lineups and brand partnerships… and what each of us can do within our industry.Click play now, and if this is as important to you as it is to me, check out the Black Speakers Collective that Sonia mentioned in this episode at https://blackspeakerscollection.pory.app/ 

Primary Headteacher Sonia Thompson joins us on the Tips for Teacher podcast to share her 5 tips: 1. Read for pleasure and read for progress (03:30) 2. Be clear about your career pathway (12:42) 3. Make use of the NPQs (23:03) 4. Go out and visit other schools (28:43) 5. Think about implementation (40:22) Access the show notes and audio transcription of the episode, plus a load more audio and video tips here: tipsforteachers.co.uk

How can we be more inclusive in our marketing, intentionally? What steps can we take to choose an audience, make them feel seen, and avoid excluding others along the way? Join me on Marketing Unf*cked as I speak with Sonia Thompson, an inclusive marketing strategist and consultant. She helps brands win customers by delivering inclusive and remarkable experiences that make them feel like they belong. Tune in to learn how to create an authentic and inclusive marketing plan that connects with your audience, and can grow along with your business. Sonia shares her 5 Degrees of Inclusivity, the importance of knowing your values, and how all of this will make your brand more successful — in more ways than one.In this episode:Brands unintentionally exclude people, because they don't decide who they want to specifically include.How can you re-think customer personas to better address the needs of your audience?Start small, be realistic about who you can serve now, and scale as you grow.Inclusive marketing isn't about including everybody every time, it's about intentionality.What can you do to make sure your audience feels seen in your marketing materials?You can serve a specific audience while still welcoming others.How to choose who to serve with your brand.Sonia's 5 Degrees of the Inclusivity Spectrum.How does better inclusion affect the success of your overall business?Inclusion and customer experience are intertwined.To create an inclusive marketing plan that sticks, you have to align it with your values, and apply it to all aspects of your business.

For this episode, Tom and Emma chat with education “sister act” Tracey Adams and Sonia Thompson. The pair discuss their roles at St. Matthew's Primary School in Birmingham, Sonia's publication with John Catt Educational, and their philosophies on research-based education. In addition to being Head and Deputy Headteachers at St. Matthew's, Tracey and Sonia are sisters and discuss their dynamic in a research school environment. St Matthew's has garnered a lot of positive attention from the education community in the U.K, even having other educators visit quite often to take some of the techniques Sonia and Tracey use into their own classrooms across Britain. Using a wealth of knowledge gained in the classroom, Sonia's recent publication builds off Ron Berger's seminal work An Ethic of Excellence: Building a Culture of Craftsmanship. Sonia's book explores how she has used Berger's work in the classroom to build fundamentals in reading, language, and create educational experiences that shape young students for great achievement in the future. Sonia Thompson is Head Teacher at St. Matthew's C.E. Primary School and Director of St. Matthew's Research School. She is an SLE for English and School Improvement and a regular speaker at conferences, such as Research Ed. You can find Sonia on Twitter @son1bun Tracey Adams is the Deputy Head Teacher at St. Matthew's CE Primary School and Deputy Director of St. Matthew's Research School. She is also NCETM Professional Development Lead and SLE for Maths and School Improvement. You can find Tracey on Twitter @traceya75 Tom Sherrington has worked in schools as a teacher and leader for 30 years and is now a consultant specializing in teacher development and curriculum & assessment planning. His books include Teaching WalkThrus, Rosenshine's Principles in Action, and The Learning Rainforest Fieldbook. Follow Tom on Twitter @teacherhead Emma Turner joined Discovery Schools Academy Trust as the Research and CPD lead after 20 years in primary teaching. She is the founder of ‘NewEd – Joyful CPD for early-career teachers', a not-for-profit approach to CPD to encourage positivity amongst the profession and help to retain teachers in post. Turner is the author of Be More Toddler: A Leadership Education From Our Little Learners & Let's Talk About Flex: Flipping the flexible working narrative for education. Follow Emma on Twitter @emma_turner75 --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/mindthegap-edu/message

In Clear Focus: In 2020, Black Americans' buying power totaled $1.6 trillion or 9 percent of the nation's total - despite being 13 percent of the population. These consumers are willing to shift around 30 percent of their current spending to companies that better address their needs. Inclusive marketing expert Sonia Thompson returns to the podcast for a lively conversation about Black History Month and offers practical advice for brands seeking to develop authentic, truly inclusive marketing.

Sonia Thompson, inclusive marketing strategist and consultant that helps brands win the attention, adoration, and loyalty of consumers most brands ignore, joins Marketing Matters to talk about Black History Month and how brands are celebrating.

I am so excited to introduce you to my guest on this week's episode! Sonia Thompson is an incredible customer experience strategist and consultant. She's been in the position to examine the way that businesses are leaving some customers behind in their marketing and customer experience services and has been a strong voice for diversity in marketing for years. I asked Sonia to give us her essential takeaways for inclusive marketing: 1. Get IntentionalTo Sonia, inclusivity in business simply means to get intentional about who you will and will not serve. Being inclusive doesn't mean you have to serve everyone! Think about the people who have the problem your business solves – then, think about how they might be different from one another. How can you make sure your business provides for all versions of your customers?2. Diversify your Circle of influence No matter what your business is, it is vital to surround yourself with people who are different than you. Different perspectives expand the way you view the world, and once you live it, inclusive thinking comes naturally. 3. Think about Representation in your Imagery Every bit of content you put out is evaluated by the people who might seek to work with you. They need to see themselves reflected in your business as it is, it gives them permission to continue forward in that space. We really do all just want to belong!As always, give yourself permission to mess up. No one's ever going to get it perfectly! Embrace the imperfectness and enjoy the growing and learning. Links Mentioned in This Episode: Find Sonia on her website (www.soniaethompson.com) or connect with her on Instagram @soniaethompson (https://www.instagram.com/soniaethompson/?hl=en) Kevin Curry FitMenCook (https://fitmencook.com/) Gary Vaynerchuk https://www.garyvaynerchuk.com/ Nike's Hands-Free FlyEase https://www.nike.com/ca/flyease Cosmopolitan's Tess Holliday Cover https://www.cosmopolitan.com/uk/body/a22849266/tess-holliday-cosmopolitan-uk-cover-interview-october-2018/ 

This week's episode I have an interview with the lovely Sonia Thompson who is a customer experience strategist and consultant and CEO of Thompson Media Group. We are going to be talking all about the Black Lives Matter movement and how we can ensure we are doing everything we can in our business marketing to be inclusive.   KEY TAKEAWAYS COVERED IN THE PODCASTAs much as we focus on speaking to the right person, we also need to make sure we are not putting anyone off as well. Ask yourself: Am I being inclusive to everyone this is suitable for? You can't serve everyone, but you need to be intentional about who you want to serve and who you don't. Create an inclusive environment where customers who do have special requirements don't feel they have to ask and stand out. It is sometimes worse to not say anything or acknowledge something is happening. It is better to be the business that acknowledges something is going on, that the one that says nothing. If you make a statement, it needs to relate to your value and how your business operates. You need to really truly believe in what you are saying. It's ok if you haven't got it right in the past, just acknowledge this and how you are going to move forward. It is important to have conversations with people if you don't understand something due to never experiencing it. Diversify your circle of influence – Make sure the voices you are listening to are all different to give you a broader view of the world. Re-evaluate your customer avatar – If you limit and define your avatar, you could be leaving out a big group of people who may have the same pain points and needs. Commit to representation – Your customers need to see themselves and who they aspire to be in your marketing and business. Make cultural intelligence a priority – If you don't have an understanding or appreciation for other cultures, it can be very easy to say the wrong thing and potentially offend. Take an audit of your customer experience – Go through your customer journey and think about the signals you want to send out. THE ONE THING YOU NEED TO REMEMBER ABOVE ALL ELSE…It is better to try and potentially get it wrong, rather than say nothing at all. This isn't just for now, this is an ongoing problem that needs to be addressed and things need to change.HIGHLIGHTS YOU SIMPLY CAN'T MISSAn Introduction to Sonia – 07:01 Being Inclusive in Marketing – 10:22 The Inclusivity Spectrum – 14:20 Mistakes We Can Learn From – 19:20 5 Steps to a More Inclusive Business – 27:50 LINKS TO RESOURCES MENTIONED IN TODAYS EPISODEhttps://www.soniaethompson.com/ (Sonia's site) https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniaethompson/ (LinkedIn) https://trybusiness.lpages.co/inclusivity-spectrum/ (Freebie) Transcript below  Hello and welcome back to this week's episode of the podcast. How are you doing? So thank you so much, firstly, for all the lovely comments and DMs and things after last week's episode, it was a slightly odd episode. Uh, I am very happy to say that I am much more on the mend and have enjoyed being back in the swing of things of work, which is lovely. And I know it seems like, I dunno, is it sad or is it, you know, not good for me? And people will be like, "Oh, you should be resting." But the fact is I love work. It makes me truly happy. So actually I am more than happy to be back. I'm more than happy to be sat at my desk, which I enjoy very much. Maybe I should get a hobby. Um, anyway, this week we have great episode and I don't mind telling you that I was a bit nervous about doing this episode. So obviously you'll be aware that some months back there was a awful lot of press and news around the black lives matter movements. And there was a big thing on social media putting up black squares and people sort of commenting things. And if I'm totally honest, there was a real nervousness around it in terms of what people were saying and doing, and were they doing the right thing or not...