Podcasts about storybrand

How would you build a world-class brand around a niche, somewhat intangible service like accelerated learning? Jim Kwik has done just that.   Jim is a speaker, podcaster, and bestselling author ("Limitless"), who's become a world-class voice in cognition and accelerated learning. He's worked with Google, Harvard, Nike, Oprah and Elon Musk to name a few. But Jim isn't just a brain expert: he's also an excellent communicator and loves distilling his message into short, powerful statements his community calls "Kwik-isms".   In this week's episode, bestselling author Donald Miller sits down with Jim to discuss the in-depth story behind his brand, brainstorm soundbites they can use to make his offer instantly appealing to customers, and Jim shares his process for making sure he uses AI effectively and without turning off his brain.   Check out Jim Kwik's newly released book, "Limitless Daily", here: https://www.amazon.com/Limitless-Daily-Train-Brain-Master/dp/1401978940     ----------------------   If you ever wonder why some marketing instantly grabs your attention while the rest gets ignored, know that it's not about luck. It's not about a bigger budget. The marketing that works follows just a few simple principles that make it easy to understandable, memorable, and impossible to overlook. That's why StoryBrand has a free guide. The Four Rules of Messaging PDF will teach you those principles and in just a few minutes you'll have a simple but powerful framework for improving every message you create from your website and emails to your ads and sales calls. Download your free copy of The Four Rules of Messaging: https://storybrand.com/the-4-rules-of-messaging?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=4rules-lead-gen-2026&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=sbpodcast   ----------------------   Ready to clarify your message and grow your business?   Attend StoryBrand Your Business LIVE to learn how to explain what you do in a way customers instantly understand: https://storybrand.com/live/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=sbyourbusiness&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=SB_workshop    Visit StoryBrand.com for business training, messaging tools, and resources to help you grow: https://storybrand.com/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=storybrand&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=SB_home    Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storybrand   Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/storybrand

Mark Young is the CEO of Ryze Agency, where he helps brands scale through world-class marketing, sharp product positioning, and operational clarity. Mark has built multiple successful businesses and has become a trusted advisor for founders looking to break through plateaus and expand into new markets.  He has recently published a series of 5 books titled the Ecommerce Brand Guide to the Galaxy with Benjamin Hardy.Highlight Bullets> Here's a glimpse of what you would learn…. Differences between selling on Amazon and Shopify, focusing on intent-based versus cold traffic marketing.Common misconceptions brands have about marketing metrics, particularly the focus on ROAS.Importance of understanding customer acquisition cost (CAC), lifetime value (LTV), and average order value (AOV) for sustainable growth.Strategies for increasing average order value through upsells and bundles.The significance of customer experience and retention marketing on Shopify compared to Amazon.The role of storytelling and brand identity in engaging customers on Shopify.Examples of successful and unsuccessful brand strategies in e-commerce.Actionable takeaways for brands looking to scale on Shopify.The impact of brand loyalty and customer relationships on long-term success.Recommendations for influential books and tools in the e-commerce space.In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley speaks with Mark Young, CEO of Ryze Agency, about scaling DTC brands on Shopify. Mark explains the fundamental differences between Amazon's intent-based selling and Shopify's cold traffic environment, emphasizing the need for brand storytelling. He challenges the common obsession with ROAS, introducing the "holy trinity" of metrics: Customer Acquisition Cost, Lifetime Value, and Average Order Value. Mark also highlights the importance of retention marketing and authentic customer relationships, sharing real success and failure stories to illustrate how strategy, not tactics, drives sustainable e-commerce growth.Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:Shift from “conversion” to “connection” Stop treating Shopify like Amazon. Build demand through storytelling, content, and brand experience—optimize for trust and engagement before expecting conversions.Scale with the right metrics (not ROAS) Track and optimize your CAC:LTV:AOV triangle. Aim for a 1:3 CAC:LTV ratio, and be willing to accept lower short-term ROAS to acquire high-value customers.Increase AOV + retention to unlock profit Bundle products, upsell, and improve post-purchase experience. Focus on repeat buyers (email/SMS, loyalty, CX) to maximize LTV and make your paid acquisition sustainable.Timestamps:00:00:38 Introduction to the E-comm Breakthrough PodcastThe announcer introduces the podcast, aimed at helping seven-figure e-commerce business owners unlock their full potential and growth.00:00:52 Host's Introduction and Guest WelcomeHost Josh Hadley introduces himself and the episode's guest, Mark Young, CEO of Ryze Agency and author.00:02:12 The Challenge of Scaling from Amazon to ShopifyMark discusses why brands successful on Amazon often struggle on Shopify, highlighting the fundamental differences between the platforms.00:04:15 Amazon vs. Shopify: Intent vs. Cold TrafficA breakdown of how Amazon is an intent-based platform, while Shopify requires cold traffic marketing and brand storytelling.00:05:57 Common Misconceptions Brands Have with AgenciesMark explains the two types of clients he encounters: startups who think they know everything and brands with agency trauma.00:08:20 The Problem with Over-relying on ROASMark details why Return on Ad Spend (ROAS) is a "fool's metric" and how agencies can manipulate it.00:11:02 The Holy Trinity of E-commerce MetricsMark explains the three core KPIs brands should focus on: Lifetime Value (LTV), Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC), and Average Order Value (AOV).00:18:24 The Importance of Average Order Value (AOV)Discussion on why an AOV of at least $50-$100 is crucial for profitability due to shipping costs and consumer psychology.00:21:09 Focusing on Customer Experience and RetentionMark argues that brands focus too much on acquisition and not enough on creating an impressive backend customer experience.00:24:49 The Mindset Shift from Amazon to ShopifyBrands moving from Amazon must learn to focus on customer experience and brand storytelling, which Amazon handles for them.00:28:11 Building a Relational BrandThe importance of creating a personal, relational brand on Shopify, as opposed to Amazon's transactional nature. People buy from people.00:33:19 Be the Guide, Not the HeroUsing the "StoryBrand" framework, Mark explains that brands should act as the guide (Gandalf) for their customer (Frodo).00:35:09 Case Study: A Successful Skincare BrandA brand succeeded by understanding its brand voice, embracing omnichannel marketing, and defining clear goals for its agency partnership.00:38:00 Case Study: A Failed BrandA brand failed due to a reactive CEO, a singular focus on top-line revenue, and training customers to expect constant discounts.00:41:38 Three Actionable TakeawaysJosh Hadley summarizes the key lessons: understand your brand story, focus on LTV over ROAS, and prioritize customer retention.00:44:03 Mark's Most Influential BooksMark shares his favorite and most influential books, including works by Donald Miller, Will Guidara, and Stephen Covey.00:45:12 Leveraging AI in BusinessMark discusses how his agency uses AI, specifically "Claude bots," to imagine a new kind of business, not just automate tasks.00:48:08 Who to Follow in the E-comm SpaceMark recommends following Alex Hormozi and Donald Miller and emphasizes the value of nano and micro-influencers over macro-influencers.00:49:16 How to Connect with Mark YoungMark shares where listeners can find him, his books, and his agency, and discusses his passion for helping entrepreneurs.Resources mentioned in this episode:Josh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastEmail Josh Hadley: Josh@eCommBreakthrough.comTools and Websites  "Ryze Agency": "00:02:01"  "Shopify": "00:02:55"  "

✏️ Your Profit & Loss is the report card for your business. If you're making decisions based only on your bank balance, you're missing one of the most powerful tools available to you. Learn what a P&L is, why it matters, and how it can help you build a more profitable business.

Most businesses are losing sales in the first few seconds, not because the offer is weak or the product is bad, but because the message feels like work. When people have to stop and decode your language, they don't lean in. They leave. And if confusion is costing you customers before the conversation even starts, how do you fix it fast?     In this week's episode, Donald Miller explains why confusion is the real reason businesses stall and how zero cognitive load messaging helps customers buy. He breaks down the "curse of knowledge," why people say "I'll think about it," and the 3 questions your messaging must answer in seconds. This episode gives you a simple framework to clarify your message so customers engage, trust you, and take action.     ----------------------   If you ever wonder why some marketing instantly grabs your attention while the rest gets ignored, know that it's not about luck. It's not about a bigger budget. The marketing that works follows just a few simple principles that make it easy to understandable, memorable, and impossible to overlook. That's why StoryBrand has a free guide. The Four Rules of Messaging PDF will teach you those principles and in just a few minutes you'll have a simple but powerful framework for improving every message you create from your website and emails to your ads and sales calls. Download your free copy of The Four Rules of Messaging: https://storybrand.com/the-4-rules-of-messaging?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=4rules-lead-gen-2026&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=sbpodcast   ----------------------   Ready to clarify your message and grow your business?   Attend StoryBrand Your Business LIVE to learn how to explain what you do in a way customers instantly understand: https://storybrand.com/live/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=sbyourbusiness&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=SB_workshop    Visit StoryBrand.com for business training, messaging tools, and resources to help you grow: https://storybrand.com/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=storybrand&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=SB_home    Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storybrand   Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/storybrand

This week's Summer Series is a two-fer on the essential skill of storytelling. Whether pitching an investment fund to a prospect, an idea to a portfolio manager or CIO, or a request of a family member, storytelling helps you get what you want. To help understand the art and science of storytelling, Matt Dicks – a retired middle school teacher and author of the best-seller Storyworthy, and Don Miller – creator of Storybrand, a business started with his book of the same name – describe how to improve your storytelling ability. Learn more about Capital Allocators University. Try ALEX by Admired Leadership. Learn More Follow Ted on Twitter at @tseides or LinkedIn Subscribe to the mailing list Access Transcript with Premium Membership Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)

This week's Summer Series is a two-fer on the essential skill of storytelling. Whether pitching an investment fund to a prospect, an idea to a portfolio manager or CIO, or a request of a family member, storytelling helps you get what you want. To help understand the art and science of storytelling, Matt Dicks – a retired middle school teacher and author of the best-seller Storyworthy, and Don Miller – creator of Storybrand, a business started with his book of the same name – describe how to improve your storytelling ability. Learn more about Capital Allocators University. Try ALEX by Admired Leadership. Learn More Follow Ted on Twitter at @tseides or LinkedIn Subscribe to the mailing list Access Transcript with Premium Membership Editing and post-production work for this episode was provided by The Podcast Consultant (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thepodcastconsultant.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠)

In this episode bestselling author Donald Miller gives you a full masterclass on the StoryBrand framework so you can stop confusing customers and start winning more sales.   Don breaks down the 7 sound bites that make messaging land every time, why the brain buys to survive and conserve calories, and how to position yourself as the guide with empathy and authority, and even gives you time to actually get the work done. You'll also get a one-liner exercise you can use at parties, pitches, and on your homepage.   Listen in to get the clarity you need to create clear messaging that drives growth.   ----------------------   If you ever wonder why some marketing instantly grabs your attention while the rest gets ignored, know that it's not about luck. It's not about a bigger budget. The marketing that works follows just a few simple principles that make it easy to understandable, memorable, and impossible to overlook. That's why StoryBrand has a free guide. The Four Rules of Messaging PDF will teach you those principles and in just a few minutes you'll have a simple but powerful framework for improving every message you create from your website and emails to your ads and sales calls. Download your free copy of The Four Rules of Messaging: https://storybrand.com/the-4-rules-of-messaging?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=4rules-lead-gen-2026&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=sbpodcast   ----------------------   Ready to clarify your message and grow your business?   Attend StoryBrand Your Business LIVE to learn how to explain what you do in a way customers instantly understand: https://storybrand.com/live/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=sbyourbusiness&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=SB_workshop    Visit StoryBrand.com for business training, messaging tools, and resources to help you grow: https://storybrand.com/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=storybrand&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=SB_home    Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storybrand   Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/storybrand      

Time isn't your biggest problem. The way you're using it is. Learn how theme days and Financial Fridays can help you stop reacting and start building a more profitable business.

Every conversation is shaping your future. The way you show up affects whether people trust you, remember you, recommend you, or just move on. Connection isn't a soft skill on the sidelines of success. It's what opens doors. When people feel rushed, ignored, or talked at, they pull back. But when they feel heard, valued, and understood, they lean in. Trust starts to grow, and that trust can change everything from team culture to client relationships to sales. So how do you become more magnetic without sounding fake, forced, or overly polished?   This week, Donald Miller shares a simple framework for building trust in everyday conversations. He explains why connection matters as much as competence and breaks down three practical moves. Don shows how rushed energy creates tension, why curiosity builds trust, and how small phrases can make people feel safe and valued. He also shares practical tips to help you ask better questions, make people feel seen, and stay calm in hard conversations. Tune in to learn how to build trust and become someone people want to work with.   ----------------------   If you ever wonder why some marketing instantly grabs your attention while the rest gets ignored, know that it's not about luck. It's not about a bigger budget. The marketing that works follows just a few simple principles that make it easy to understandable, memorable, and impossible to overlook. That's why StoryBrand has a free guide. The Four Rules of Messaging PDF will teach you those principles and in just a few minutes you'll have a simple but powerful framework for improving every message you create from your website and emails to your ads and sales calls. Download your free copy of The Four Rules of Messaging: https://storybrand.com/the-4-rules-of-messaging?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=4rules-lead-gen-2026&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=sbpodcast   ----------------------   Ready to clarify your message and grow your business?   Attend StoryBrand Your Business LIVE to learn how to explain what you do in a way customers instantly understand: https://storybrand.com/live/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=sbyourbusiness&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=SB_workshop    Visit StoryBrand.com for business training, messaging tools, and resources to help you grow: https://storybrand.com/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=storybrand&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=SB_home    Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storybrand   Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/storybrand

✏️ Short Description Profit and cash flow are not the same thing. Learn why your business can be profitable on paper but still have no money in the bank, and what you can do to fix it.

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA Auto Care and NAPA TRACS Watch Full Video Episode Why are so many employees disengaged at work, and what can leaders do about it? Dr. JJ Peterson explores how business leaders can cure employee disengagement by applying the StoryBrand framework to their management style. The episode addresses a massive workplace crisis: roughly 80% to 90% of the American workforce identifies as disengaged, meaning they are stressed, disconnected, and not giving their best. Because a boss can impact an employee's mental health even more than a therapist, Dr. Peterson argues that leaders have a profound responsibility to show up in a way that positively impacts their team. What You'll Learn Why most employees disengage and what leaders can do to change it.The four workplace character roles: Victim, Villain, Hero, and Guide.Why great leaders stop trying to be the hero and instead help their employees succeed.How empathy and authority work together to build trust and accountability.Why people want to feel they matter more than they want to feel motivated.How defining purpose and creating a shared story strengthens company culture.Why repairing relationships after mistakes builds lasting trust and psychological safety. Dr. Peterson notes that people don't wake up wanting to be motivated; they wake up wanting to matter. Leaders must clearly communicate two things to make employees feel they matter: why the company's work is important (e.g., alleviating severe stress for customers with broken down cars) and why the individual's specific role in that mission is valuable. Similarly, true company culture is not about having snacks in a breakroom; it is about intentionally building a shared story where everyone knows their roles, values, and what success looks like. Dr J.J. Peterson, https://www.drjjpeterson.com/. Listen to JJ's other episodes HERE Learn more about NAPA Auto Care and the benefits of being part of the NAPA family by visiting https://remarkableresultsradiopodcast.captivate.fm/napaautocare   NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Connect with the Podcast: Download and Listen on Our Mobile App:https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/app/Visit the Website:https://remarkableresults.biz/Subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriottoFollow on Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/Follow on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/Follow on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club:https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmastersJoin Our Private Facebook Community:https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976Join our Insider List:https://remarkableresults.biz/insiderAll books mentioned on our podcasts:https://remarkableresults.biz/booksOur Classroom page for personal or team learning:https://remarkableresults.biz/classroomSpecial episode collections:https://remarkableresults.biz/collectionsBuy Me a Coffee:https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcastwith Carm Capriotto:Facilitating Wisdom Through Storytelling and Open Discussion.https://remarkableresults.biz/Automotive Field Theory:From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/Business by the Numbers: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/The Weekly Blitz: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/Speak Up! Effective Communication: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills with Craig O'Neill.https://craigoneill.captivate.fm

SEASON: 7 EPISODE: 2 Episode Overview:Welcome back to Becoming Preferred, the podcast for business professionals and entrepreneurs who want to level up their game and become preferred in the markets they serve.If you run a B2B company, there's a high probability you've hit a very specific growth ceiling: you built a fantastic business through relationships and word-of-mouth, but the moment you try to scale beyond referrals, your marketing completely stalls out. You keep tweaking your website, changing ad agencies, and wondering why it's not converting.'Our guest today says the problem isn't your marketing tactics; it's that you are performing the wrong show. Matt Wolfe is a brand strategist, Partner at Brand3, and one of the country's most experienced StoryBrand Certified Guides, having transformed the messaging of over two hundred and fifty organizations across thirty industries.But what makes him truly unique in this space is his background: before moving into full-time marketing, Matt spent twenty-five years on professional stages, including Broadway. He understands better than anyone alive why some scripts grip an audience and others cause them to walk out by intermission. Today, we are unpacking his 'Brand-First Rule,' how to scale a relationship-driven B2B beyond referrals, and how to make your marketing look less digital and significantly more human. Join me for my conversation with Matt Wolfe.Guest Bio: Matt Wolfe spent 25 years on professional stages, including Broadway, before pivoting to full-time marketing. That path looks like a detour until you hear him explain why a business's brand message works the same way a script does. Every word either earns an audience's attention or loses it, and most companies are performing the wrong show.Today, Matt is a Partner at Brand3 and one of the most experienced StoryBrand Certified Guides in the country, with work across 250+ organizations in more than 30 industries. He helps B2B leaders who've built businesses on strong word-of-mouth figure out why their marketing doesn't reflect that fact - and fix it at the source. Brand3's Scale Beyond Referrals program helps relationship-driven B2Bs tell a story that connects with their ideal clients. In a world that's growing more digital, his team makes marketing more human - and makes B2Bs the obvious choice to their ideal clients.Resource Links:Website: https://www.brand3.net/Website: https://www.mattwolfemarketing.com/Product Link: https://www.brand3.net/ways-to-engage/Insight Gold Timestamps:03:40 You have this fantastic phrase where you say that most B2B companies are performing the wrong show with their marketing05:05 That's really all that is at the end of the day, is the right story to the right people06:36 StoryBrand says make your audience the hero of the story07:53 I think StoryBrand has moved the needle on that conversation11:43 I'm going to make this bold statement, and then I'll qualify it: Demographics don't work13:47 At the end of the day, these sales only happen through carefully built trust and relationships17:02 We've been using the phrase: trust recession19:30 You have a strict brand first rule that says, "Stop marketing a message you haven't built yet"21:22 The game's going to be won or lost on that header and whether or not that says to somebody, "I'm telling your story"23:39 Good marketing is shining the spotlight back on the ideal client25:06 If you don't articulate the problem that they're facing, there just is no story26:57 We just have to keep asking the question, how will this digital thing that we're doing now lead to a human encounter?32:36 If you do this right, you're putting more humans in front of the right ideal client humans to have these great encounters36:03 We were like, "Why aren't we telling that story?"38:34 Matt Wolfe, the website is brand3.net38:41 Your personal website as well mattwolfemarketing.com38:58 You can also go to scalebeyondreferrals.com39:13 We have a podcast called The CEO's Heart for ServiceConnect Socially:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/MattWolfeMarketingFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brand3marketing/The CEO's Heart for Service Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-ceos-heart-for-service-scaling-business-without/id1896298694Email: mwolfe@brand3.netSponsors: Rainmaker LeadGen Platform Demo: https://calendar.summit-learning.com/widget/booking/JKItVP7WErmCBjU2cCIxRainmaker Digital Solutions: https://www.rainmakerdigitalsolutions.com/

When sales slow down, many business owners think the answer is to expand into a new market, add new services, or even start a second business. But what if that's exactly the wrong move? In this episode, I explain why chasing the next opportunity often hurts the business that's already making you money. We talk about the hidden costs of expanding too early, why most businesses haven't even scratched the surface of their current market, and how staying focused can lead to greater profits than constantly chasing something new. Before you start another business, add another service, or expand into a new area, listen to this episode. Sometimes the fastest way to grow is to stop chasing and start dominating. -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

Nonprofits are doing incredible work, but if your messaging isn't clear, your impact can easily get lost.In this episode of Nonprofit Nation, Julia sits down with Ian Stewart, Founder and CEO of Whole Brand Agency and a StoryBrand Certified Guide, to discuss why clear messaging is one of the most powerful fundraising tools nonprofits can have.Ian explains how confusing language can unintentionally create barriers for donors and supporters, making it harder for them to understand your mission and take action. Drawing from the StoryBrand framework, he shares practical strategies to simplify your messaging, position your donors as the heroes of your story, and create communications that inspire generosity without oversimplifying your mission.Whether you're planning your next fundraising campaign, refreshing your website, or simply trying to communicate your impact more effectively, this episode offers actionable advice to help your nonprofit connect with the right audience and increase donor engagement. In this episode, you'll learn: Why confusing messaging hurts donor engagement and fundraising.  The fundamentals of the StoryBrand framework for nonprofits.  How to simplify complex missions without losing authenticity.  Tips for creating fundraising campaigns with clear, compelling messaging.  How storytelling strengthens donor relationships.  Practical exercises to help clarify your nonprofit's message today.  Why positioning your donor as the hero leads to stronger engagement.  How to evaluate whether your current messaging is actually working. About Ian StewartIan Stewart is the Founder and CEO of Whole Brand Agency, a StoryBrand Certified Guide, and host of the Whole Brand Podcast. He helps organizations clarify their messaging, build trust, and create marketing that keeps their brands top of mind.Throughout his career, Ian has worked with organizations including the PGA Tour, the University of Colorado, and nonprofits such as America's Kids Belong, Colorado Youth Outdoors, and the Denver Institute of Work and Faith. His passion lies in helping mission-driven organizations communicate with clarity, build meaningful relationships, and grow with intention. Connect with Ian StewartWebsite: https://wholebrand.agency/StoryBrand for Nonprofits: https://wholebrand.agency/sbnonprofit/LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/ianstewart12Take my free masterclass: 3 Must-Have Elements of Social Media Content that Converts

Thanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledEvery day, auto repair shops leave valuable marketing opportunities on the table without even realizing it. From missing website essentials and weak SEO to underperforming Google Ads, Local Service Ads, and inconsistent social media, Kim Walker and Shop Marketing Pros' Market Service Advisor Michael Doherty break down the most common issues uncovered during digital marketing inspections. They explain why these overlooked details matter, how they impact your visibility and growth, and the practical steps you can take to fix them. If you want more qualified customers finding and choosing your shop, this is an episode you won't want to miss.Listen now and discover how a digital marketing inspection can uncover hidden opportunities to help fill your bays.Show Notes with TimestampsIntroduction to the Episode (00:01:19) Kim and Michael introduce the topic: commonly missed marketing opportunities found during a "digital marketing inspection" for auto repair shops.What is a Digital Marketing Inspection? (00:02:31) Michael explains that a digital marketing inspection is an evaluation of a shop's current marketing efforts, similar to a DVI.How to Get a Digital Marketing Inspection (00:03:41) Michael details the process for booking a free discovery call and digital marketing inspection through the Shop Marketing Pros website.Common Website Issues (00:07:28) Discussion on shops having no website, lacking personalization, missing clear calls to action, and overusing stock or AI-generated images.SEO: Google Business Profile Optimization (00:14:06) The importance of optimizing a Google Business Profile, including updated photos and responding to reviews with relevant automotive keywords.SEO: Lack of an SEO Footprint (00:19:07) Michael discusses how many shops have zero SEO visibility, which hurts their ability to be found by new customers online.SEO: The Importance of a Blog (00:22:34) The role of consistent, content-rich blog posts in providing search engines with information to rank the shop as a relevant result.Digital Ads: Local Service Ads (LSA) (00:25:10) An overview of Google's Local Service Ads, common setup frustrations, and the importance of optimizing them by rating calls.Digital Ads: Cookie-Cutter Google Search Ads (00:29:24) Many shops use generic, unengaging ad copy and are often unaware of what their own ads even look like.Digital Ads: Unhealthy Ad Budgets (00:34:53) Shops often set ad budgets that are too low to be effective, causing their ads to shut off prematurely.Social Media: Strategy and Content (00:38:41) Many shops lack a social media strategy, don't post consistently, or fail to use authentic photos and videos.Social Media: Does it Impact Car Count? (00:43:31) Discussion on the myth that social media doesn't bring in customers and the importance of tracking how customers find you.Social Media: The StoryBrand Framework (00:46:14) The importance of using a customer-first messaging framework like StoryBrand to create more effective and engaging social media content.How To Get In TouchJoin The Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind Group on FacebookMeet The ProsFollow SMP on FacebookFollow SMP on InstagramGet The Ultimate Guide to Auto Repair Shop Marketing BookEmail Us Podcast Questions or Topics Lagniappe (Books, Links, Other Podcasts, etc)Shop Marketing Pros – Book a Discovery Call / Digital Marketing InspectionThanks to our Partners, Shop Boss and AppFueledThis episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.AppFueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro.”The Automotive Repair Podcast Network: https://automotiverepairpodcastnetwork.com/Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/

Today's replay is about how to use AI and story to grow your business. We all know AI can help you create content faster. But speed alone won't make your message work.   You still need a clear story, a strong strategy, and language that connects with real customers. In this episode, you'll learn how to combine AI with the StoryBrand framework so your marketing and messaging is faster, clearer, and more effective.   Ready to clarify your message and grow your business?   Attend StoryBrand Your Business LIVE to learn how to explain what you do in a way customers instantly understand: https://storybrand.com/live/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=sbyourbusiness&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=SB_workshop    Visit StoryBrand.com for business training, messaging tools, and resources to help you grow: https://storybrand.com/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=storybrand&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=SB_home    Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/storybrand   Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/storybrand

If you had the chance to buy your own business today... would you? In this episode, I share one of my favorite coaching exercises that helps business owners step out of the daily grind and see their business through a completely different lens. Imagine you're buying your business from someone else. What would you notice? Would the financials give you confidence? Would the customer experience impress you? Would your employees, systems, inventory, and processes make you excited to invest? This simple exercise helps you stop making excuses and start identifying opportunities. You'll learn how to evaluate your business objectively, uncover hidden weaknesses, and use your business numbers to make smarter decisions that lead to more profit. Sometimes the biggest breakthrough comes from looking at your business with fresh eyes.

In the eighth episode of season 5, of Disruptors at Work: An Integrated Care Podcast special host Dr. Brandy K. Biglow, Doctor of Behavioral Health (DBH) program alumna at Cummings Graduate Institute for Behavioral Health Studies (CGI), is joined by Dr. Jeremy Henderson-Teelucksingh, CGI DBH program alum and Kat Vasquez for a conversation about the role of marketing in behavioral healthcare. The conversation explores the unique challenges behavioral health professionals face when promoting their services, the importance of visibility and accessibility, and practical ways organizations can improve their messaging without losing sight of their mission. By reframing marketing as an extension of care, this episode shows how thoughtful communication can support stronger patient engagement, better access, and more meaningful health outcomes.About the Podcast Guests:Dr. Brandy K. Biglow, DBH, LMHC, CCTP, CIMHP, CGI DBH program alumna, is the CEO and co-founder of Renovation Integrative Health, LLC. She has served as a mental health professional for 12 years, where she has supported others in her role as a counselor, clinical supervisor, and licensed clinical program manager. She is a burnout expert, a licensed mental health counselor and supervisor for mental health and marriage and family therapists in Florida, a certified clinical trauma professional, a certified integrated mental health practitioner, a certified individual coach, and a certified group coach. Dr. Brandy uses an integrative health approach infused with humor, empathy, and current information from research (anecdotal and qualitative). Prior to her career in mental health, she educated and supported students as a certified K-12 Exceptional Education teacher for 10 years. Brandy is passionate about her work: supporting people on their journey to design a life of harmony, continuing to establish to status and significance of Doctors of Behavioral Health in the United States and globally, and advancing the model of integrated behavioral health. Her long-term goals are to open an integrative health clinic.Dr. Jeremy Henderson-Teelucksingh, DBH, LPC/MHSP, LCMHC, NCC, CCMHC, CGI DBH program alum, is a counselor, leadership and management coach, and corporate and community human relations consultant. As a counselor, Jeremy works with adults (individuals, couples, and families) who experience PTSD/trauma, abuse in the context of family relationships, anger, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, relationship issues, and more. Jeremy also works with the LGBTGEQIAP+ community (teens and adults) and is an “out” counselor with a history of diversity, equality, inclusion, and belonging advocacy. Jeremy approaches counseling from a multicultural and social justice viewpoint and has lived and worked in many US states and countries, which Jeremy draws from to understand the client's unique experience.Kat Vazquez, is a brand strategist and Marketing Director with a passion for turning powerful ideas into compelling stories that move people to action. As Director of Marketing at Renovation Integrative Health and Owner/Director of First Impressions Studios, she operates at the intersection of brand strategy, content marketing, and video production. She helps visionary leaders clarify their message, build their audience, and grow their impact. Kat brings a multi-platform fluency to every engagement, drawing on frameworks from StoryBrand by Donald Miller, Alex Cattoni, Rachel Pedersen, and Chris Do to craft campaigns that convert. Whether she's developing a full brand strategy, leading a multi-day production, or building a launch sequence from scratch, her work starts with one truth: you can have the best offer in the world, but if the right people don't hear it in a way that moves them, it doesn't matter. When she's not crafting strategy or behind a camera, Kat is fueled by a love of travel, culture, and the stories she learns and gets to tell through her travels.

Whether your website uses the StoryBrand framework, another messaging framework, or simply has strong marketing copy, great messaging alone isn't enough to improve your search rankings.StoryBrand is an excellent framework for creating clear, patient-focused messaging and stronger calls to action, but it wasn't designed to improve your SEO. That's why many clinic owners are surprised when they redesign their website, love the new messaging, and then wonder why their Google rankings, Google Maps visibility, or AI search presence don't improve.In this episode, you'll learn why messaging and SEO solve two different problems, and how combining the two creates a website that's both patient-friendly and search-friendly. We'll cover how to keep the messaging you love while using the language your future patients are actually searching for, organizing your content for Google and AI search platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini, and avoiding common website mistakes that can limit your online visibility.If you're planning a website redesign, updating your content, or simply want more patients to find your clinic online, this episode will help you create a website that's easier for patients to trust and easier for search engines and AI to recommend.Episode Webpage, blog, and show notes: https://propelyourcompany.com/website-messaging-and-seo/Book a discovery call: https://calendly.com/propelyourcompany/discovery-callSend in your questions. ❤ We'd love to hear from you!Webinar: The Hidden SEO Mistakes Costing Clinics Patients Right Now (And Easy Fixes You Can Start Making This Week)Save your spot: https://propelyourcompany.com/june/** Can't make it live? Register anyway. You'll get access to the limited-time replay. *** 

Hiring your next employee might be the best decision you ever make... or one of the most expensive mistakes. In this episode, we break down the two questions every business owner needs to answer before adding another person to the team: Do you truly need the help? Can your business actually afford it? We discuss why hiring won't fix an unprofitable business, how to know when your current team is being underutilized, and why adding another employee often masks training, leadership, or process problems. We also cover the difference between employees and subcontractors, when outsourcing makes more sense than hiring, and how every new hire should help create more sales, more profit, or free you up to work on growing the business. If you're thinking about making your first hire or adding to your team, this episode will help you make that decision with confidence.

Your digital ad has less than three seconds to earn attention before someone scrolls past. Most car wash ads waste those three seconds talking about the wrong thing.In part three of the StoryBrand series, I break down why most car wash ads get ignored and what changes when you put the customer at the center instead of the wash. Same ad spend, completely different return.In this episode:- The difference between a feature-first ad and a customer-first ad, side by side, using the same offer- Why leading with your prices and features kills your click-through rate- The three-part structure for an ad that stops the scroll: problem, guide, one clear offer- Why social ads and Google ads need completely different approaches- How the free wash offer turns one ad click into months of follow-upPull up the last ad you ran and read the first line. Is it about your wash, or about your customer? That one line decides whether anyone reads the rest.---Next episode: StoryBrand and Your Social Media.Free Course: FiveFunnelsToFreedom.comWork with OptSpot: OptSpot.com---#carwash #carwashmarketing #storybrand #digitalads #carwashbusiness #facebookads

In this episode, Rajeev Sajja sits down with Matthew Rathbun, Executive Vice President of Coldwell Banker Elite, to discuss how agents can move beyond experimenting with AI and begin integrating it into every part of their business. As both a producing agent and brokerage leader, Matthew shares practical strategies for using AI to improve productivity, strengthen decision-making, and create better client experiences.   Matthew explains how he relies on AI in three distinct roles: as a thought partner to challenge ideas, an augmenter to improve the quality of his work, and a coach to help prioritize tasks, manage information, and stay focused throughout the day. He also shares how voice conversations with AI have become his primary way of working, making AI a natural extension of his daily workflow rather than just another software tool.   The conversation explores practical AI workflows for creating listing marketing, producing video content, developing educational materials, writing company policies, and generating hyperlocal content that builds trust with consumers. Matthew also shares several of his favorite AI tools and explains why building repeatable workflows is far more valuable than chasing the latest AI app.   Rajeev and Matthew also discuss the importance of curiosity, continuous learning, and looking beyond the real estate industry for ideas that can be adapted to create a competitive advantage. Their message is clear: AI doesn't replace expertise, it amplifies it for professionals who are willing to learn and experiment. Resources Mentioned:  Building a Story Brand by Donald Miller AI & Productivity Tools: WisprFlow NotebookLM BigVu Canva Fotello Tripo HiDock AI Notetaker Guest: Matthew Rathbun Website: https://www.matthewrathbun.com/contact_matthew_rathbun/    Host: Rajeev Sajja Website: http://www.realestateaiflash.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rsajja Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/rajeev_sajja LinkedIn: http://www.linkedIn.com/in/rsajja   Rajeev's Resources:  Join our Instagram Real Estate AI Insiders Channel - https://ig.me/j/AbZCJG37DqBPPtxi/ Get 14 days Wispro Flow Pro Free Trial - https://ref.wisprflow.ai/rajeev-sajja  Subscribe to our weekly AI Newsletter: https://realestateai-flash.beehiiv.com/subscribe   

What if the most powerful fundraising tool you have isn't your data? It could be a single five-second moment.Great missions don't always speak for themselves. Social entrepreneurs are often sitting on compelling, real-world stories (the very reason they started their work) but struggle to translate that into messaging that actually moves people. Adam breaks down why that gap exists and what to do about it.Drawing on Matthew Dicks' Storyworthy and Donald Miller's Building a StoryBrand, Adam walks through a practical framework for finding the emotional core of any story: a five-second moment of transformation. Once you know that moment, you know where your story ends and where it needs to begin. From there, it's about knowing your audience and placing them at the center of the journey, not yourself.The conversation also gets into the unglamorous, everyday work of building a story practice: brain dumps, voice notes, and logging small moments before they disappear. And for organizations working with vulnerable populations, Adam addresses the ethics of capturing others' stories, including consent, anonymization, and fair compensation. Real-world examples from Hot Chicken Takeover and Goodwill illustrate what it looks like when impact is woven into the business model rather than bolted on as an afterthought.Episode in a glance00:00 The Power of Impact Storytelling02:34 The five-second moment of transformation (Matthew Dicks)03:31 Know your audience before you craft your story04:04 The classroom example: one story, three different audiences07:19 Placing your customer as the hero (Donald Miller)10:08 Frameworks for Effective Storytelling11:34 "Homework for Life" and capturing stories daily12:36 Adam's brain dump system for social media content15:42 Ethical storytelling with vulnerable populations17:26 Hot Chicken Takeover: lead with product, not mission18:32 Goodwill as a model for impact woven into the business20:10 Ethical Storytelling and PracticeResources MentionedStoryworthy by Matthew Dicks Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller

Fear comes in many forms. Sometimes it's fear of numbers. Sometimes it's fear of what those numbers will tell you. Learn why facing your Profit & Loss could be the most profitable decision you make this year.

Your car wash website has about five seconds to answer three questions before someone leaves. Most websites fail all three, and it's not because they're ugly or slow. It's because they're about the wrong person.In part two of the StoryBrand series, I walk through a car wash homepage section by section and show you exactly what each part should say, using the framework. The headline, the subhead, the call to action, the problem section, and more. You'll see what most car wash websites get wrong and what the right version looks like side by side.In this episode:- The five-second test that tells you if your website is working- Why the headline is the most important line on your site, and the one job it has- The difference between features and what the customer actually gets- Why "Get Your First Wash Free" is really about capturing the phone number, not the wash- How to lead with empathy before authority so you don't sound like you're braggingOpen your homepage and count how many times the first three sections say "we" or "our." That number is your starting point.---Next episode: StoryBrand and Your Digital Ads.Free Course: FiveFunnelsToFreedom.comWork with OptSpot: OptSpot.com---#carwash #carwashmarketing #storybrand #carwashwebsite #carwashbusiness #websitedesign

Learning your numbers isn't just about understanding a Profit & Loss statement. It's about building confidence, making better decisions, creating more profit, and giving yourself the freedom to build the business and life you truly want. Whether you're just getting started or you've owned your business for years, your journey changes the moment you stop guessing and start understanding your numbers. I'd be honored to be a small part of that journey. -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

Message Clarity Matters: Bruce Ashford on the Communication Bottleneck Killing Growth Bruce Ashford spent nearly two decades in academia as a professor and provost, but a personal crisis during COVID forced him to rebuild from scratch. What he discovered in his own recovery became the blueprint for helping mission-driven nonprofits and founder-led businesses solve their biggest growth problem: they can't articulate their value. The irony? Organizations doing genuinely important work often fail not because of what they do, but because of how they communicate it. Bruce works with CEOs to unlock two critical clarity challenges—message clarity and structural clarity—that separate thriving organizations from stuck ones. In This Episode Bruce's journey: from academic leader to recovery to messaging strategist How personal crisis revealed the power of rigorous self-inventory The six organizational components that must align for sustainable growth Why marketing firms miss the most important skill: the words Storytelling frameworks where the customer or donor is the hero How nonprofits underestimate their value through unclear messaging The founder bottleneck: why CEOs become the ceiling on growth Structural clarity: the airplane analogy that transforms organizations Vision and mission statements that actually inspire (25 words or less) AI optimization alongside human connection: winning over machines and people Building a brand presence so clear that growth becomes inevitable Timestamps 00:00  Understanding the Clarity Problem 05:58  The Journey to Message Clarity 11:51  Personal Transformation and Professional Growth 17:45  The Power of Story in Messaging 23:26  Real-World Applications and Success Stories 25:27  Targeting the Right Audience for Nonprofits 27:05  Communicating Value Effectively 30:04  Growth Strategies for Organizations 34:53  Leadership and Organizational Bottlenecks 37:26  The Importance of Vision and Mission Statements 42:29  AI's Role in Marketing and Clarity 47:29  Finding the Truth in Your Message Key Insights & Takeaways Insight #1: Message Clarity Is Half the Battle Most nonprofits and founder-led businesses haven't found the right words to communicate their value to customers or donors. This isn't a confidence problem—it's a structural one. Marketing firms lack messaging expertise, and leaders can't see their own label from inside the bottle. Getting clarity on your message transforms everything. Insight #2: Six Components Must Align for Growth Organizations don't grow by doing the same things harder. They grow when leadership, marketing, sales, product optimization, management/productivity, and cash flow all work in harmony. Like an airplane, if one component fails, the whole system fails. Insight #3: The Founder Is Often the Bottleneck CEOs carry too much on their shoulders and never delegate or systematize. James Clear's principle applies: "You don't rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems." Without processes and delegation, organizations cannot scale. Insight #4: Story, Not Features, Drives Action People don't buy features—they buy transformation. The most effective messaging makes the customer or donor the hero of the story, not your organization. When audiences see their own life reflected in your words, they act. Insight #5: Authenticity Compounds Over Time Whether it's personal recovery or organizational branding, finding and communicating your truth creates a moat that tactics can't replicate. Consistent clarity and authentic storytelling naturally attract the right attention and support. Resources & Links  Bruce Ashford's Website — https://www.theashfordagency.com/ Million Dollar Message Intensive — Bruce's flagship messaging program StoryBrand by Donald Miller — The framework that shaped Bruce's approach Small Business Flight Plan — The certification model Bruce uses Nonprofit Flight Plan — Bruce's adaptation for mission-driven organizations AI Trust Signals by Marcus Sheridan — Evaluate and optimize AI ranking factors Atomic Habits by James Clear — "You fall to the level of your systems" About Bruce Ashford Bruce Ashford is a messaging strategist and organizational consultant who works exclusively with CEOs of nonprofits and founder-led businesses. With nearly two decades in academia and nonprofit leadership, he watched capable leaders with important missions fail to communicate their value. After a personal crisis and recovery, he discovered that the same rigorous self-inventory that saved his life could transform organizations. He's a certified coach in StoryBrand, Marketing Made Simple, and Small Business Flight Plan, and he specializes in helping mission-driven leaders achieve message clarity and structural clarity—the two foundations of sustainable growth. Connect with Bruce: Website: www.theashfordagency.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/brucerileyashford   For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We're happy you're here! Like the pod? Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/ Leave a rating and review on your favorite platform Follow @yourbrandamplified on the socials Talk to my digital avatar  See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Most car wash marketing is about the car wash. That's the problem.In this episode, the first in a five-part series, I walk through the StoryBrand framework and show you exactly how each of the seven elements applies to your wash. I've been a StoryBrand Certified Guide for 10 years. This isn't a marketing theory lecture. It's a practical breakdown of what your marketing is doing wrong and how to fix it. In about 10 minutes, you'll learn:- Why your customer's brain filters out most car wash marketing before they even consciously decide to- The three levels of problem every car wash customer has, and why most washes only address one- The difference between making yourself the hero and making your customer the hero- Why "authority without empathy just sounds like bragging"- The one line every car wash needs to understand about stakes: if there's nothing to be won or lost by not doing business with you, there's no reason to do business with youBefore you listen, look at your website. Count how many times the first paragraph says "we." That number tells you everything.---Next episode: StoryBrand and Your Website; exactly what your homepage should say, line by line.Free Marketing Course: FiveFunnelsToFreedom.comWork with OptSpot: OptSpot.com---#carwash #carwashmarketing #storybrand #carwashbusiness #carwashgrowth #marketingforcarwashes

Episode 374: A Roadmap to Nonprofit Excellence: What Most Leaders Miss (Lauren Deiorio)Episode SummaryMost nonprofit leaders don't fail because of mission. They get stuck running one part of the operation well while neglecting the rest, often because they rose through programming and never learned the business of running an organization. In this episode, Lauren Deiorio, President & CEO of the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County, shares the Roadmap to Success, a practical tool she helped build that breaks nonprofit excellence into nine “destinations”: governance, HR, financial management, fundraising, communications, technology, strategic collaborations, community empowerment, and grant strategy. Drawing on a finance and public accounting background and nine years leading her foundation, Lauren explains why treating your nonprofit like a business, with engaged boards, strong internal controls, diversified revenue, and clear communications, is what earns donor confidence. She offers a concrete way to put the roadmap to work as a self-assessment, pairing a staff member with a board member on each destination throughout the year. Listeners will walk away with a mental checklist for diagnosing where their organization is strong, where it's vulnerable, and exactly where to start.About LaurenLauren Deiorio is President & CEO of the Community Foundation for Ocala/Marion County, where she leads a nonprofit resource center dedicated to helping local organizations grow stronger and run more like a business. Originally from Louisville, Kentucky, Lauren earned a degree in finance and spent years in public accounting before moving into the philanthropic sector, first as the fund development director for her local school district and then, for the past nine years, at the helm of the Community Foundation. A self-described numbers person who joined her local public relations association to sharpen her communications skills, she co-created the foundation's Roadmap to Success, now in its second edition with an accompanying workbook nonprofits across the region use as a self-study guide. Based near Orlando, she's a fan of common-sense customer service, and has led her own staff through a book study on the subject.ResourcesConnect with Lauren: LinkedIn | lauren@ocalafoundation.orgCommunity Foundation for Ocala/Marion County: ocalafoundation.orgRoadmap to Success: the nine-destination nonprofit handbook and workbook (order at ocalafoundation.org)Book recommendation: The Customer Rules by Lee CockrellAlso mentioned: Building a StoryBrand by Donald MillerFollow Your Path to Nonprofit Leadership, and please leave a review!Learn more about the leadership resources at Armstrong McGuire: ArmstrongMcGuire.com

Buyers trust a peer who has been there over a brand on a soapbox. In this episode of Content Amplified, Scott Hild, who leads brand and marketing at Propeller, a management consulting firm that helps companies through transformation, breaks down what he calls the visible expert strategy: telling the company's story from its people's point of view instead of from the brand. Scott explains how this differs from generic thought leadership. Rather than publishing "five things you need to know about X," his team tells the story of a real client conversation: what the client was thinking, how the conversation went, where they started, and where they ended up. He gets specific on the parts most teams skip: deciding the purpose of a piece before making it, using a StoryBrand-style rubric so the audience can see themselves as the hero, picking which internal experts to build programs around ("go with your hot hand," the people with genuine passion), and developing content abstracts across formats for the whole year. If you run marketing for a firm that sells expertise instead of a product, this conversation gives you a model you can act on.About ScottScott Hild leads brand and marketing for Propeller, a management consulting firm that helps companies through transformation: business process, operating model, organizational design, and increasingly AI. Scott's team works on the change, people, and strategy side of AI, helping clients align their AI initiatives to their business goals rather than the technical side. He describes Propeller as a "credence business," one that sells its people and their expertise rather than a product, which is why he puts those experts front and center in the firm's content.Show NotesConnect with Scott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scotthild/StoryBrand by Donald Miller (referenced as a framework Scott's team uses)Text us what you think about this episode!

"People are going to your website for the relationship." Episode Charters [00:03:24] How websites evolved from technology to storytelling [00:04:31] Capturing the essence of a person and a brand [00:05:10] The role of StoryBrand in the process [00:10:15] Identifying the ideal client and removing confusion [00:18:17] Why authentic photos matter on a website [00:22:05] How websites can improve the sales process [00:25:46] Building marketing on a stronger foundation Most business owners think they need a better website. What they often need is a clearer story. Jody Maberry talks with Lindsay Carlson, founder of Mighty Marketing and Communications, about the process of capturing a brand's essence and translating it into messaging that builds trust. Using the Best Culture Solutions website as an example, Lindsay shares how storytelling, strategy, and deep client understanding create websites that do more than generate traffic. They create connection. The conversation explores branding, StoryBrand, client relationships, visual storytelling, and why the most effective websites help people understand not only what you do but who you are. Read the blog for more from this episode.  Connect with Lindsay https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsayc/ https://mightystrategic.com/ Connect with Jody www.jodymaberry.com About Jody - https://jodymaberry.com/about-jody-maberry/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sugarjmaberry LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodymaberry/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/sugarjmaberry/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jodymaberry  

From minor league hockey coach in Surrey, British Columbia to CEO of a full-service marketing agency, Jared Harman joins host Kevin L. Warren to connect championship culture and leadership lessons from the ice to building high-performing business teams. EP.529In this Sports Chasers Interview Session, Jared Harman — CEO and co-founder of The One Group Agency and a former goalie and minor hockey coach — breaks down discipline, respect, role clarity, and coaching people differently, and how those principles drive accountability and culture in business. He explains The One Group Agency as a full-service marketing firm (content, websites, social, digital ads, and podcast production) serving roughly 60 monthly retainer clients with a 16-person team.Kevin and Jared dig into why system beats talent, how to scale systems while staying fluid with new tools and AI, hiring for ethics and values first, and using Donald Miller's "Building a StoryBrand" to simplify messaging and guide clients. They compare sports pressure vs. business pressure and close with a rapid-fire round on golf, FIFA, and the Vancouver Grizzlies NBA return debate.⭐ HIGHLIGHTED CHAPTER⚙️ Why System Beats Talent (23:05) — Jared explains why a repeatable system out-performs raw talent every time, and how role clarity and accountability turn good people into a winning team. This is the heart of the episode for any leader, founder, or coach.

Most expert business owners spend everything getting customers in the door and almost nothing on what happens after.In this episode, Tara breaks down the most ignored part of the business: what happens once someone becomes a customer.A Signature Pathway is not a course, a program, or a single offer. It is the orchestrated architecture that moves someone through your methodology, from the moment they first purchase to the moment they want to certify in your approach and deliver it to others. If your business is a leaky bucket, customers come in, do not complete, do not ascend, do not refer, the problem is not your marketing. It is a structure problem. And the structure that fixes it is your Signature Pathway.What you will learn:Why the post-purchase customer journey is the most leveraged - and most neglected - part of your businessWhat a Signature Pathway actually is (and why it is not a course or a program)How milestone-driven delivery prevents the leaky bucket and creates customers who ascend naturallyWhat becomes possible when your methodology becomes something others want to certify in (StoryBrand, Profit First)Why building your Signature Pathway inside the Scalable Expert Mentorship™ is the fastest path to leverageTake the Scalable Expert Audit™: Identify exactly where your business is still architecturally dependent on you - and what to build first to change it. Free, 20 minutes.Resources mentioned:StoryBrand by Donald MillerProfit First by Mike MichalowiczScalable Expert Mentorship™Tara Bryan is the creator of the Infinite Scale Method™ and host of The Scalable Expert podcast. She helps expert business owners, coaches, and consultants turn their expertise into a scalable business built on a signature framework and systems that deliver results without requiring more of their time. Learn more at www.thescalable.expert and www.taralbryan.comReady to build a business your expertise deserves? The Scalable Expert Audit reveals exactly where you are in the Infinite Scale Method and what to do next. Five minutes. Instant results. Take the Free Scalable Expert Audit → If this episode was useful...Share it with one expert business owner who's hit the same ceiling.A review on Apple Podcasts helps more of the right people find the show and takes less than two minutes.→ Leave a review: Apple Podcasts→ Subscribe: Apple Podcasts · Website

Want to know exactly how much you need to sell to hit your profit goal? In this episode, we use a simple formula and your Profit & Loss statement to reverse engineer your sales target and build a more profitable business.

If you've been wondering whether your business will ever really get off the ground, or sometimes feel like you're the only one struggling, this conversation is for you.In this episode, I talk to my friend and colleague Jennie Lakenan about overcoming fear, building a business, and continuing to move forward even when life feels messy. As a web designer, certified StoryBrand Guide, and certified life coach who has built more than 150 websites over the last eight years, Jennie combines design, messaging, and coaching to help business owners navigate growth and the challenges of putting themselves out there.You'll hear Jennie's story of overcoming a long-standing fear of driving one small step at a time, and how you can apply that same method to business growth. We also discuss life balance, how Jennie approached growing her family while being the primary breadwinner, and why progress often comes from moving forward even when you don't feel completely ready.Whether you're facing a fear, contemplating a big decision, or trying to grow your business without expecting too much of yourself, Jennie's journey will remind you that small steps can add up more than you imagine.What you'll learn:How Jennie made the decision to pursue her business full-time while raising young childrenWhy an element of trust or faith is essential when making decisions and how it can look different for everyoneHow Jennie worked through her fear of driving without expecting herself to overcome it all at onceWhy the “go big” approach isn't always the right choice for sustainable business growthPractical business advice to help you clarify your messaging and let go of perfectionYou can read the full show notes here.About Jennie LakenanJennie Lakenan is the go-to web designer for life coaches who want to have an amazing online presence. When she discovered coaching in 2018, her life transformed for the better. She quickly saw the need in the coaching industry for website services for coaches, and founded her design agency. As a certified StoryBrand guide and life coach, her mission is to get more coaching into the world by helping other coaches to promote and grow their businesses via extraordinary websites and strategic marketing.Website: jennielakenan.comInstagram: instagram.com/jennielakenanFacebook: facebook.com/jennielakenanYouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCMQXwBS2p1g22dNAtg5TFlQCoach Website Blueprint: jennielakenan.com/blueprintConnect with Molly ClaireAre you ready to create a signature program, clarify your niche and messaging, and develop a compelling offer you can confidently sell? I'm currently enrolling private clients for one-to-one coaching and would love to support you. Email team@mollyclaire.com to request an application.Get the book: She Rises: Insights and Wisdom from the Women of The Masterful Coach CollectiveMolly's Website: MollyClaire.ComMaster Coach Training Application OpenHave a question or thoughts about the podcast? Don't hesitate to contact Molly at:Instagram | Molly Claire Coaching IGmolly@mollyclaire.comFacebookMolly's book: The Happy Mom Mindset: mollyclaire.com/book Free resources:Learn the 4 fundamentals of Lasting ChangePlease help Molly reach even more like-minded individuals! Simply post a review of the podcast on your favorite platform (or two). It is so appreciated.Are you a leader, coach, or business owner who wants to inspire, influence, and cultivate lasting change in yourself or others? Unlock your full potential as a leader and coach with the 4 fundamentals of lasting change coach training program.

What if the problem isn't your business? What if the problem is that you're trying to force yourself into a life you no longer want? In this episode, we have an honest conversation about something most business owners never talk about: what happens when you hate being a business owner. Some people are struggling because they simply haven't figured out their numbers yet. They love being a business owner but need to understand their Profit & Loss, pricing, debt, cash flow, and profitability. Others hate every aspect of business ownership. They hate sales. They hate marketing. They hate managing people. They hate the pressure and responsibility. Those are two completely different situations. The question is: Which bucket are you in? Today we're talking about how to know the difference and what to do next.

Are you a therapist struggling with your marketing? Are you wondering why your potential clients aren't booking consultations? In today's episode, I dive deep into the one puzzle piece you might be missing in your marketing: talking about your client's problems. In this replay episode, I'm sharing why pinpointing and empathizing with your clients' issues is not manipulative but essential if you want to connect with those seeking help. I'll guide you through understanding your clients' perspectives, using their language, and positioning yourself as the solution they've been searching for. Plus actionable steps and resources that could transform your marketing approach, ensuring that your message resonates with the right people. Tune in to learn how to make your private practice stand out and attract the clients who need you most. Don't let another potential client slip through the cracks - tune in now and start making a real difference with your marketing!Topics covered on this episode: Why is it crucial for therapists to talk about clients' problems in their marketingThe fears therapists have about focusing on client problems, and how these can be addressedHow understanding a potential client's specific struggles can lead to better engagementCommon mistakes therapists make in their marketing, and how can they be fixedSteps can you take to ensure your marketing resonates on an emotional level with potential clientsThe simple challenge you can undertake this week to improve your connection with potential clients through social mediaConnect with Felicia:Get my freebie & join the email list: The Magic SheetsInstagram: @the_bad_therapistWebsite: www.thebadtherapist.coachResources from this episode:Building a StoryBrand by Donald MillerRelated episodes:How to Build a Strategic Website That Will Bring More Clients to Your Practice With Sarah Busse [Ep 30]Quote:"Talking about your client's problem isn't manipulative. It's the first moment where we convey to them that we see them, we appreciate the pain they're in as they experience it right now, and we genuinely want to help them." - Felicia

Most business owners are busy. The question is: are they actually successful? In this episode, we talk about one of the biggest traps small business owners fall into—confusing activity with progress. Just because you're working long hours, running from job to job, and staying busy every day doesn't mean your business is growing or becoming more profitable. We discuss the difference between working IN your business versus working ON your business, why so many owners avoid looking at their numbers, and how failing to carve out time for planning keeps them stuck in the same cycle year after year. You'll learn why protecting time to review your business, improve systems, develop your team, and understand your Profit & Loss report may be the most important work you do all week. If you're tired of spinning your wheels and ready to build a more profitable business, this episode is for you. -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

Donald Miller is one of the most influential voices in branding, marketing, and business storytelling. As the bestselling author of Building a StoryBrand, he has helped entrepreneurs, corporations, and even government organizations clarify their messaging and connect more effectively with customers. In this episode, Travis breaks down the biggest lessons he learned from his conversation with Donald, covering everything from simplifying your message and leveraging AI to the power of storytelling, positioning, and relentless optimism. On this episode we talk about: Why confusion kills sales and simplicity wins customers How AI can accelerate your work without replacing human judgment and creativity The role of "delusional optimism" in entrepreneurship and long-term success Why businesses should position themselves as the guide rather than the hero How Pixar's storytelling process reveals the importance of structure and planning Top 3 Takeaways If people have to work to understand your message, you've already lost them. Simplifying your communication is one of the fastest ways to improve sales and customer engagement. AI is a powerful tool for creating drafts and generating ideas, but great results still depend on human judgment, taste, and decision-making. Successful entrepreneurs combine strong belief with relentless action. Optimism alone isn't enough—it must be paired with consistent execution. Notable Quotes "Confusion is the enemy. Simplicity is the game." "AI is a dirty, rough draft machine, not a replacement for genius." "Delusional optimism is a feature, not a bug." Connect with Donald Miller: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donaldmiller Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/donaldmiller/ Other: https://storybrand.com Book: Building a StoryBrand 2.0 A Word from Our Sponsors: - Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! - To learn more about Mode Mobile and its investor community, go to https://invest.modemobile.com/travismakesmoney⁠ -Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency.Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform.Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

If you are an accomplished coach with decades of experience, credentials, and a track record that earns you respect in every room, but you cannot seem to land paying clients, this video is going to show you exactly why. The problem is not your niche, your marketing, or your people. The problem is that you are too brilliant for the words you are using.If you're new to my channel, my name is Debbie Shadid. I'm a Business Growth and Life Coach and the founder of the Business Building Boutique. For over two decades, I've helped women learn how to become coaches, get clients, grow their businesses, and create meaningful income doing work they love.Yesterday I had four consultation calls with four different brilliant women. Two were global leaders. All four had the credentials, the methodology, and the published work to back them up. And all four came to me saying the same thing: I cannot sell my coaching. Every one of them was missing the same small but critical thing, and once they saw it, the gap between their work and the world finally made sense.In this video, we'll walk through:Why being the smartest person in your niche can quietly cost you clientsThe exact moment your ideal client clicks away from your website and what you need to fix before they doWhy your peers and your boardroom can understand you perfectly while your ideal client cannotThe difference between speaking your language and speaking your client's language (and why expertise lives in both)How Donald Miller's caveman language principle from StoryBrand applies to your coaching marketingWhy hiring a professional copywriter or website designer might not be saving you (it didn't save my four callers either)The simple translation exercise that could be the difference between invisibility and your first clientThis is not about downplaying your expertise. It is about making your brilliance accessible to the very person you are meant to help. When you translate your work into language they understand, you become more of an expert in their eyes, not less.Want me to help you simplify your message and finally get clients? Join my free workshop here: https://debbieshadid.com/workshopConnect with me, Debbie Shadid:Website: https://www.debbieshadid.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/debbieshadid/Listen to the Podcast:Life Coach Business Building School Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/life-coach-business-building-school-with-debbie-shadid/id1502118085Subscribe for weekly episodes on building your coaching business, finding clients, and creating the life you actually want: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCz6RS8kQGMLJqJrK9uKdjtgIf this video was helpful, share it with a coach who has the credentials but can't seem to get the clients. Subscribe and hit the bell so you don't miss next week's episode on building a coaching business that actually pays.Disclaimer: Some links above may be affiliate links. I only recommend products I personally use and love.Let's connect!Website: https://www.debbieshadid.com Instagram @debbieshadidSubscribe on YouTube#DebbieShadid #LifeCoachBusinessBuildingSchool 

"I've been looking for this kind of clarity in my life." In this episode, Tim talks with April Sunshine Hawkins (Former Co-Host of the Marketing Made Simple Podcast and Storybrand Private Workshop Instructor) about why most marketing fails and how to craft messages that actually resonate. April brings deep expertise from teaching the StoryBrand framework worldwide, plus insights on the internal blocks that sabotage even the smartest business owners. In this episode, Tim and April cover: • Why cognitive load kills your marketing—and how speaking in insider jargon instantly loses your audience • The PEACE framework that transforms confusing websites into customer magnets in five simple steps • How fear and ego create marketing that serves the business instead of the customer—and what self-awareness has to do with better sales Don't miss April's breakdown of why "people like us do things like this" means you should stop trying to appeal to everyone and start speaking directly to your ideal customer—because a message for everyone is a message for no one. —— Links from this episode: Q&A Episode: http://itsfiretime.com/ask —— Watch this podcast on YouTube: https://youtu.be/z_2bFUzpx4w Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-fire-time-podcast/id1433804268 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4vHdzg48bE5qFf0KjMeMej?si=7b6cae3923d348f2 Read The Fire Time Magazine: https://www.itsfiretime.com/magazine Subscribe to The Fire Time Magazine: https://itsfiretime.com/subscribe Support The Fire Time Podcast financially: https://www.itsfiretime.com/join

In today's episode, we'll dive into a fascinating twist on the e-commerce journey — what happens when you buy back the very brand you once sold. Ben will share the lessons, emotions, and strategic insights behind exiting — and then re-entering — your own business. Highlight Bullets> Here's a glimpse of what you would learn…. Ben Leonard's entrepreneurial journey with Beast Gear, from initial investment to seven-figure exit.Challenges faced after selling Beast Gear to Thrasio, including mismanagement and loss of brand identity.Importance of effective inventory management and the consequences of overleveraging.The significance of building a genuine consumer brand beyond basic Amazon tactics.The role of intellectual property protection and the impact of neglecting it.Insights on the operational difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic and its effects on e-commerce.Strategies for diversifying sales channels and avoiding dependency on a single platform.The importance of quality in products and overall business operations.Marketing strategies for brand awareness, including the use of influencers and social media.Lessons learned from reacquiring and reviving a brand in a competitive market.In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley speaks with entrepreneur Ben Leonard, who built Beast Gear into a seven-figure brand before selling it to aggregator Thrasio. Then buying it back after mismanagement caused revenue to collapse. Ben reveals how Thrasio abandoned the brand-building strategies that drove Beast Gear's success, mishandled inventory, and neglected intellectual property protection. He shares lessons on diversifying beyond Amazon, maintaining product quality, and building genuine customer communities. Ben also discusses his new dad-focused baby carrier brand, Tuco, and offers actionable advice on scaling e-commerce businesses sustainably.Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:Build a brand, not just an Amazon listing Engage customers off-Amazon (TikTok, email, events) and create a loyal community—not just traffic.Treat inventory like risk, not just growth Forecast per SKU, avoid over-ordering, and ensure sell-through within ~6 months to prevent cash flow disasters.Diversify early and protect your moat Expand beyond Amazon (Shopify + social channels) and actively enforce IP to protect your brand from copycats.Timestamps:00:00:34 Introduction to the EpisodeThe host introduces the guest, Ben Leonard, and the topic: buying back his brand after selling it to an aggregator.00:02:14 The Brand's Decline Under New OwnershipBen confirms his brand crashed after he sold it to the aggregator Thrasio due to mismanagement and operational failures.00:05:41 The "Magic" Thrasio IgnoredBen explains his original success came from building a true brand with customer relationships, which the new owners dismantled.00:09:27 The Financial FalloutBen reveals the brand's revenue plummeted from $6 million to about half a million dollars under Thrasio's ownership.00:13:13 Three Key Mistakes by the AggregatorThe host summarizes Thrasio's critical errors: inventory mismanagement, ignoring off-Amazon branding, and failing to protect intellectual property.00:19:51 Why You Must Diversify Beyond AmazonBen stresses the need for Amazon sellers to act like real brands and diversify channels to build a sustainable business.00:22:23 The Revival Playbook for Beast GearBen outlines his bootstrapped strategy to revive the brand, focusing on TikTok Shop and rebuilding community goodwill on a budget.00:27:08 Launching a New Brand: TucoThe conversation shifts to Ben's new venture, Tuco, a baby carrier startup designed specifically for dads.00:32:22 When to Implement Brand Awareness StrategiesBen and Josh discuss when a brand should start investing in top-of-funnel marketing and diversifying beyond its primary channel.00:37:40 Three Actionable Takeaways for Brand OwnersThe host summarizes key lessons: diversify with solid processes, avoid inventory leverage, and work with creators for brand awareness.00:42:13 Ben's Final Three QuestionsBen shares his most influential book (The E-Myth), favorite AI tool (Claude), and an e-commerce professional to follow.00:45:51 How to Connect with BenBen shares the best places for listeners to find him online, primarily LinkedIn and his personal email address.Resources mentioned in this episode:Josh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastEmail Josh Hadley: Josh@eCommBreakthrough.comTools and Websites"Shopify": "00:03:03""Amazon": "00:03:03""TikTok": "00:09:54""YouTube": "00:19:51""TikTok Shop": "00:23:10""Meta Ads": "00:24:07""WordPress": "00:35:58""Email Marketing": "00:36:33""Claude (AI Tool)": "00:43:03""LinkedIn": "00:45:09""Ecomm Breakthrough Website": "00:46:24"Books"Quit Stalling and Build Your Own Brand by Ben Leonard": "00:01:01""Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller": "00:21:31""The E-Myth Revisited by Michael Gerber": "00:42:25"Videos"Brand Rescue Mission": "00:08:17""Escaping the Amazon Goldfish Bowl": "00:19:51"Podcasts"Operators Podcast": "00:09:54"Other Mentions"Forbes": "00:01:01""Peregrine Commerce": "00:25:41""Sean Cowie": "00:44:09"Episode Sponsor:This episode is brought to you by eComm Breakthrough Consulting where I help seven-figure e-commerce owners grow to eight figures. I started my business in 2015 and grew it to an eight-figure brand in seven years.I made mistakes along the way that made the path to eight figures longer. At times I doubted whether our business could even survive and become a real brand. I wish I would have had a guide to help me grow faster and avoid the stumbling blocks.If ...

How to Find the Sentence That Makes Buyers Stop Scrolling Your offer is solid. Your audience is there. So why are the right people still scrolling past you? Your messaging isn't giving them a reason to stop. Donald Miller, founder of StoryBrand, walked into a $300 million oil and gas company, gave them a three-word tagline, and drove a 99% lift in their test market. In this episode, he shares his PACE framework, the five soundbites every business needs, and the three questions buyers silently ask in the first five seconds on your homepage. Your messaging fix starts here. RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: Revenue highs are exciting. The unexplainable dips that follow? Not so much. If your coaching, course, or membership business is at $150K or more, the problem isn't that things aren't working. It's that you can't yet see what is. And you can't repeat what you can't see. My free Live training, The Revenue Consistency Formula, fixes that. Click here to learn what's actually behind your numbers and how to bank on them. StoryBrand Messaging Intervention by StoryBrand Donald Miller on Instagram HERE ARE THE 3 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE: 1️⃣ Build Your Messaging Around the PACE Framework — Donald Miller's PACE framework gives you five soundbites to anchor every piece of marketing you create: Problem, Answer, Change, End result, plus Empathy. When you build all five and use them consistently, you give your audience one clear story across your homepage, your emails, and every social post you publish. 2️⃣ People Only Buy What Helps Them Survive — Every product anyone has ever bought, they bought to increase their chances of survival. That's why Donald says your soundbite has to position you as a survival asset. When your messaging makes the right person feel you're moving them closer to the security and growth they're after, they stop scrolling and listen. 3️⃣ Pass the Five-Second Test on Your Homepage — When someone lands on your website, you have five seconds to answer three silent questions. What do you offer, how will it make my life better, and what do I do to buy it. Open your homepage right now, read it for five seconds, close the tab, and check if you can answer all three. That gap is often where your sales are leaking.MORE FROM ME Follow me on Instagram @amyporterfield SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW If you loved this episode, please take a moment to subscribe and leave a review on Apple Podcasts! Your support helps us reach more entrepreneurs who need these insights.

Gas prices go up… so should your prices go up too? This is a question many small business owners are asking, and the answer is not always simple. Today, we break down the pros and cons of passing along higher gas costs to your customers. You will learn when it makes sense to raise prices, when it might hurt your business, and how to think through the decision using your numbers. Pricing should never be based on emotion or panic. It should be based on understanding your costs, your margins, and your overall profitability. If you want to protect your profits and make smart pricing decisions, this is a conversation you need to have. -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

Andri Sadlak is a serial entrepreneur and Founding Head of Product & Strategy at Azoma, building AI-first commerce software for the age of agentic shopping. He's been an Amazon seller since 2017, exited his own brand, and co-founded ProductPinion. Today he's part of the team behind Amazon growth and AI visibility strategies for 8 and 9-figure brands like Mars, L'Oréal, and HP. He's one of the sharpest voices on Agentic Commerce, taking the world stage to break down how brands need to show up in the age of AI shopping assistants like Amazon Rufus, Walmart Sparky, and LLM search.Highlight Bullets> Here's a glimpse of what you would learn…. The evolution of e-commerce from traditional search engines to AI-powered answer and action engines.The rise of AI shopping assistants and their impact on consumer purchasing behavior.The integration of AI technologies by major companies like Amazon and OpenAI to enhance shopping experiences.The concept of generative commerce and how AI can autonomously complete purchases for consumers.The rapid adoption of AI tools and their influence on product research and decision-making.The importance of optimizing for AI algorithms in e-commerce, particularly on platforms like Amazon.The role of multi-modal understanding in AI, allowing it to interpret both text and images for better product recommendations.Strategies for sellers to optimize their listings for AI-driven systems, including managing Q&A sections and enhancing product images.The significance of external citations and media presence in building trust and credibility for AI recommendations.The future of e-commerce and the necessity for brands to adapt to AI-driven changes to maintain competitiveness.In this episode of the Ecomm Breakthrough Podcast, host Josh Hadley interviews AI-driven e-commerce expert Andri Sadlak. They explore how AI is revolutionizing online shopping, focusing on Amazon's shift from traditional search to AI-powered answer and action engines like Rufus. Andri shares actionable strategies for brands to optimize product listings for AI, discusses the importance of image and Q&A optimization, and highlights the growing role of external citations. The episode offers practical tips for sellers to thrive in the new era of agent commerce, emphasizing the urgency of adapting to AI-driven changes in e-commerce.Here are the 3 action items that Josh identified from this episode:Optimize for BOTH Amazon algorithms Don't rely on just traditional keyword SEO—start optimizing for both Rufus/Cosmo (AI-driven discovery) and legacy search to stay competitive.Fix your existing listings first (quick wins) Update product images, backend fields, alt text, and listing details—these are fully within your control and can drive immediate impact.Focus on one high-impact priority: Cosmo optimization Ensure your product answers key customer questions clearly (front + backend). Nail the fundamentals first—everything else builds on this.Resources mentioned in this episode:Josh Hadley on LinkedIneComm Breakthrough ConsultingeComm Breakthrough PodcastEmail Josh Hadley: Josh@eCommBreakthrough.comTools and Technologies"Rufus": "00:02:02""ChatGPT": "00:06:01""Gemini": "00:09:33""Perplexity": "00:09:33""ProductPinion": "00:02:02""Cosmo": "00:21:04""Claude": "00:28:05""Amazon Rekognition": "00:36:30""AWS (Amazon Web Services)": "00:36:30""Azoma": "00:54:36"Studies and Reports"Accenture Study on AI Trust": "00:13:13""Bain and Company Research on AI Usage": "00:16:05""Amazon's Cosmo Paper": "00:30:32"Skills and Features"Skills for Claude": "00:28:41""A+ Content": "00:39:55"Websites"Amazon Seller Central": "00:38:14""Affiliates Media": "00:44:19""ecommbreakthrough.com": "00:54:58"Books"Building a StoryBrand": "00:54:11"Key Concepts"Listings 10, 20, and 30": "00:22:34""Optical Character Recognition (OCR)": "00:39:04"Episode SponsorThis episode is brought to you by eComm Breakthrough Consulting where I help seven-figure e-commerce owners grow to eight figures. I started my business in 2015 and grew it to an eight-figure brand in seven years.I made mistakes along the way that made the path to eight figures longer. At times I doubted whether our business could even survive and become a real brand. I wish I would have had a guide to help me grow faster and avoid the stumbling blocks.If you've hit a plateau and want to know the next steps to take your business to the next level, then email me at josh@ecommbreakthrough.com and in your subject line say “strategy audit” for the chance to win a $10,000 comprehensive business strategy audit at no cost!Transcript Area:Andri Sadlak 00:00:00  The shift that we're talking about is search engines are becoming answer engines plus action engines. So it's already answer engines. We're already deep in it. Most of the people at least. And action engines is what a lot of people predict is going to happen next because we're going to save our time. We're going to go for convenience and trust AI. We already do, right? The good news you're watching this. So now you know that you need to pay attention. And I'm going to share with you exactly what I need to do.MC 00:00:29  Welcome to the Econ Breakthrough Podcast. Are you ready to unlock the full potential and growth in your business? You've already crossed seven figures in sales, but the challenge is knowing how to take your business to the next lev...

Feeling overwhelmed in your business? You might be trying to fix too much at once. Let's focus small and get big results! Today, we break down the 80/20 rule and how it applies directly to your business. The idea is simple. A small portion of what you do is responsible for the majority of your results. That means 20% of your products likely drive 80% of your sales. 20% of your processes may be causing 80% of your problems. And 20% of what is on your Profit & Loss could be driving most of your profit issues. Instead of spreading yourself thin, you need to narrow your focus. Find the few things that matter most and work on those first. When you do, you can create bigger results with less effort and finally start moving your business forward. -----------------------------   DIVE IN DEEPER & LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR NUMBERS

#927 In a world of infinite content, storytelling is a superpower and the number one way to stand out. As entrepreneurs and creators, sharing stories that move people, build trust, and convert should be a vital component of our success strategy. If you don't believe you can pull blockbusters from your day-to-day life or don't see yourself as a natural storyteller, this episode is for you! Listen in because I'll walk you through the exact five-step method I use to turn everyday events into captivating brand-building narratives. I'll also teach you how to spot potential stories as they're happening to you in real time. All this to help you mine your firsts, your failures, and your emotions for content that connects with your audience and builds superfans! Tune in to today's session to start building your story bank and become irreplaceable! This applies to creators at every level, so don't miss out on next-level results! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session927.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Remarkable customer experiences don't happen because someone on your team happened to be in a good mood. They happen when a business decides, in advance, how people should feel at every step. Without that kind of intention, even great companies become forgettable. So how do you design moments customers actually remember and share?   In this episode, Donald Miller sits down with Will Guidara, author of Unreasonable Hospitality, to talk about how business owners can turn everyday transactions into memorable moments. Will explains why hospitality is not just for restaurants, how systems can teach your team what "right" looks like, and how his new field guide helps companies build teams, create a culture of excellence, and deliver magic in a deliberate, repeatable way. Listen in to learn how to make customers feel seen and turn that into a competitive advantage.   Learn from Will: Will Guidara / Unreasonable Hospitality https://www.unreasonablehospitality.com/ Unreasonable Hospitality The Field Guide https://uhthefieldguide.com Pre-Meal Newsletter https://www.unreasonablehospitality.com/premeal   If you want help creating messaging that drives sales, attend the next StoryBrand Your Business Live workshop for direct teaching from Don and hands-on guidance from a StoryBrand certified marketing Guide:    https://storybrand.com/live/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=sbyourbusiness&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=SB_workshop   Buy the updated Building a StoryBrand 2.0  https://storybrand.com/building-a-storybrand-book-new/?utm_medium=podcast&utm_source=podcast&utm_campaign=basb2.0&utm_term=sbpod&utm_content=BASB2.0  

A lot of brands are saying the wrong thing first. They lead with their mission, their story, and their personality, thinking that will make people care. But customers aren't looking for a brand to admire. They're looking for a guide who understands their problem and can help them solve it. When your message starts in the wrong place, your customer tunes out before you ever get a chance to help. How do you know if your brand is leading with the wrong story?   In this episode, host Donald Miller breaks down the difference between primary and secondary messaging and explains why that shift changes everything. He shows how to talk about your customer's problem, communicate why you care, prove you can help, and make the next step clear. Don also shares simple website tests to help customers quickly understand what you offer and why it matters. Tune in to create messaging that drives more sales.   Connect with Donald Miller on social media: https://www.instagram.com/donaldmiller/ https://www.facebook.com/donaldmillerwords http://StoryBrand.com   Make your marketing and messaging work with the StoryBrand framework—and you can do that with the updated version of the book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0, now available! https://buildingastorybrand.com/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=&utm_term=cb&utm_content=SB_Framework

Most businesses are losing sales in the first few seconds, not because the offer is weak or the product is bad, but because the message feels like work. When people have to stop and decode your language, they don't lean in. They leave. And if confusion is costing you customers before the conversation even starts, how do you fix it fast?   In this week's episode, Donald Miller explains why confusion is the real reason businesses stall and how zero cognitive load messaging helps customers buy. He breaks down the "curse of knowledge," why people say "I'll think about it," and the 3 questions your messaging must answer in seconds. This episode gives you a simple framework to clarify your message so customers engage, trust you, and take action.         Connect with Donald Miller on social media: https://www.instagram.com/donaldmiller/ https://www.facebook.com/donaldmillerwords http://StoryBrand.com   Make your marketing and messaging work with the StoryBrand framework—and you can do that with the updated version of the book, Building a StoryBrand 2.0, now available! https://buildingastorybrand.com/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=youtube&utm_campaign=&utm_term=cb&utm_content=SB_Framework