Episodi
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Firas Al Mubayad joins the podcast to share his powerful journey as a deaf advocate, educator, and entrepreneur. From growing up in Kuwait and moving to the UK for better education to founding AMB Deaf Accessibility, Firas has dedicated his life to bridging the gap between the hearing and deaf communities. His work empowers individuals and organizations through bespoke BSL training, consultancy services, and accessibility advocacy.
In this episode, youâll discover:
A Journey of Resilience and Advocacy
How Firas lost his hearing at age two and the challenges his family faced navigating deaf education in Kuwait.The decision to move to the UK for better opportunities and the emotional impact of leaving his family behind at age nine.The cultural shifts, struggles, and triumphs of adapting to life in a new country, learning BSL, and building a future.Building a Career and Supporting the Deaf Community
How Firas pursued fashion design, becoming the first deaf graduate from Johns Hopkins University in Liverpool.The unexpected challenges of returning to the Middle East and why he ultimately chose to build a business in the UK instead.His transition from fashion to advocacy and education, recognizing the urgent need for better deaf accessibility.The State of Deaf Education and Inclusion
The barriers faced by deaf individuals in education, healthcare, and employment.The lack of awareness in mainstream schools about deaf culture and why sign language education is essential.The impact of closing deaf schools and the fight to keep British Sign Language (BSL) in the curriculum.Empowering Businesses and Institutions to Be More Inclusive
How AMB Deaf Accessibility is transforming businesses, from small schools to global brands like NestlĂ© Nespresso.The importance of training baristas, customer service teams, and corporate employees in basic BSL to improve accessibility.The legal and social shifts around deaf rights in the UK, including the BSL Act of 2022.Firasâ Mission: A More Accessible Future
Why early exposure to BSL can change lives and how teaching children sign language fosters better inclusion.His efforts to expand BSL education in schools, despite financial and bureaucratic hurdles.How he is working with MPs and policymakers to push for better accessibility laws and funding.Firasâ Advice for Entrepreneurs and Advocates
Donât give up. If one door closes, find another.Choose the right people. Surround yourself with those who believe in your vision.Think long-term. Building a movement takes time, but perseverance creates change.Focus on accessibility. If we make the world more inclusive for deaf people, everyone benefits.Connect with Firas and Learn More:
đ Website Deaf Accessibility
đ Instagram Deaf Accessibility
đLinkedIn Feras Al Moubayed
This episode is a must-listen for leaders, educators, and anyone passionate about inclusivity. What role can you play in making the world more accessible?
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Rich Kahn, Co-Founder and CEO of Anura, joins the podcast to share his journey from a high school tech enthusiast to a leading expert in digital ad fraud detection. With decades of experience in digital marketing, Rich has built and sold multiple companies, including an Inc. 5000 business, and was honored with the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award for Technology. Now, with Anura, he is on a mission to expose and eliminate fraud in digital advertising, helping businesses protect their ad spend and improve campaign performance.
In this episode, you'll discover:
From Early Internet Pioneer to Ad Fraud Expert
How Rich's fascination with ARPANET and early online networks led him to launch innovative digital ventures, eventually culminating in Anura.The Hidden Cost of Ad Fraud
How fraudstersâincluding organized crime syndicatesâexploit programmatic advertising, costing businesses billions annually.How Anura Detects and Prevents Fraud
The difference between general invalid traffic (GIVT) and sophisticated invalid traffic (SIVT), and why most fraud detection solutions fall short.The Real Impact on Brands and Agencies
Why 25â50 percent of programmatic ad traffic is fraudulent and how companies unknowingly waste millions on non-human impressions.How to Protect Your Business from Ad Fraud
Rich shares practical strategies for brands and agencies to detect fraud, optimize their ad spend, and demand accountability from ad platforms.Building a Resilient Business in Digital Marketing
Lessons from Richâs entrepreneurial journey, from bootstrapping businesses to navigating industry shifts and staying ahead of fraudsters.Richâs Top Tips for Businesses and Marketers
Donât hire friendsâbusiness and personal relationships donât always mix.Always validate your marketing dataâbad data leads to bad decisions.Set up a retained earnings account to fund growth opportunities without external capital.Connect with Rich and Learn More
Website: Anura
LinkedIn: Rich Kahn -
Episodi mancanti?
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Zara Hajihashemi, AI Engineer and Founder of Cybele Health, joins the podcast to share her journey from Apple tech lead to femtech entrepreneur, driven by a mission to revolutionize women's health with AI-driven insights. With a PhD in machine learning, Zara spent six years at Apple leading cross-functional AI projects before founding Cybele Health to address the inefficiencies in healthcare for professional women and working mothers.
In this episode, you'll discover:
The Evolution from AI Engineer to Founder: Learn how Zaraâs experience at Apple, coupled with her PhD research, shaped her vision for Cybele Health and the need for AI-powered, personalized healthcare solutions.
Bridging the Healthcare Gap with AI: Zara discusses how Cybele Health is leveraging AI to provide 360-degree visibility into women's health, improving communication between patients and providers to create personalized wellness strategies.
The Importance of Personalized Health: Discover how diet, mental health, and physical activity should be aligned with a womanâs biological cycle to optimize well-being and productivity.
The Role of Functional Medicine and Preventative Care: Zara explains why being proactive rather than reactive in healthcare is crucial, and how AI can assist in creating sustainable, individualized health plans.
The Future of AI in Femtech: Explore how AI is revolutionizing the health industry by acting as a 24/7 health assistant, providing predictive insights, and closing gaps in traditional medical care.
Building a Health-Tech Startup: Zara shares her journey of founding Cybele Health, securing early users, and the marketing strategies she is employing to drive adoption among both providers and consumers.
Zara's Top Health and Wellness Tips:
Read labels and avoid processed foods with unrecognizable ingredients.Sync your diet, workouts, and daily habits with your biological cycle for optimal results.Prioritize functional medicine approaches for proactive rather than reactive health management.Connect with Zara and Learn More:
Website join the waitlist: Cybele Health
LinkedIn: Zara Hajihashemi -
Amy Winner, Co-founder of Wheels Up Collective, joins the podcast to share how she has transformed the traditional agency model through innovative thinking and adaptable leadership. With 25 years of experience turning market uncertainty into growth opportunities, Amy shares how she built a thriving agency during the pandemic that now serves as a beacon for both marketing talent and growth-focused clients.
In this episode, you'll discover:
Revolutionizing Agency Culture: Learn how Amy is reshaping the marketing agency landscape by prioritizing talent happiness, embracing remote flexibility, and creating an environment where seasoned professionals can do their best work while maintaining work-life balance.
Strategic Marketing in the Digital Age: Amy reveals her three-pillar content strategy, comparing SEO to a 401k investment and sharing how to balance AI automation with human creativity for maximum impact.
The Art of Client Partnership: Discover Wheels Up's unique approach to client relationships, from their referral-only model to their philosophy on setting expectations and managing growth-stage companies through market uncertainty.
Fostering Sustainable Growth: Amy discusses how prioritizing team wellbeing and selective client partnerships has led to remarkable resilience through market fluctuations.
Lessons from Scaling Success: Amy shares insights from growing Wheels Up from a pandemic-era startup to a 30-person powerhouse, including navigating the challenges of rapid scaling and market downturns.
Amy's Top 3 Tips for Founders:
Prioritize Quality Talent: Never compromise on hiring the best people possible.Stay True to Your Vision: Define what you want and pursue it relentlessly.Find Your Sweet Spot: Ensure genuine passion for your work and industry.Connect with Amy and Learn More:
Website: Wheels Up Collecting Marketing AgencyLinkedIn: Amy Winner -
I sit down with Mackenzie Doheny, Founder and CEO of Antares, to explore her remarkable 24-year journey supporting C-suite executives at the highest level. Mackenzieâs career spans the nonprofit, private, and public sectors, where she has partnered with top executives, presidents, and founders. Her work has redefined the role of executive assistants, transforming them into integral strategic partners. Through Antares, Mackenzie brings mentorship, training, and innovation to the forefront of executive support.
In this episode, youâll discover:
Redefining the Executive Assistant Role: Discover how Mackenzie is shifting the perception of executive assistants from task-doers to strategic partners, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and chemistry in these roles.
The Gaps in Executive Assistance Training: Mackenzie explains the lack of formal education for executive assistants and how Antares fills this gap with innovative mentorship and structured training programs.
Coaching for Success: Learn how Antaresâ coaching programs equip executive assistants and their CEOs with the tools and skills needed for seamless collaboration, including emotional intelligence, executive presence, and AI integration.
Building a Community of Executive Assistants: Mackenzie highlights the importance of fostering community among EAs and how Antares connects like-minded professionals to share insights, support, and growth opportunities.
Lessons from Starting Antares: Mackenzie opens up about the challenges she faced in launching her company, from hiring missteps to navigating early failures, and how those experiences shaped her leadership approach.
Mackenzieâs Top 3 Tips for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:
Leverage Your Network: Build strong connections with mentors and peers.Stay Agile: Keep an eye on market trends to remain relevant.Embrace Failure: View failures as opportunities to grow and improve.Connect with Mackenzie and Learn More:
Website: antaresinsights.comLinkedIn: Mackenzie Doheny | LinkedIn -
I sit down with Mark Fox, a true Renaissance manâentrepreneur, scientist, and former Space Shuttle Chief Engineerâto explore his journey from aerospace engineering to wellness innovation. Markâs latest creation, Vibe, is a revolutionary pulse electromagnetic field (PEMF) device designed to provide natural relief for over 100 ailments in both humans and pets. With a passion for combining technology with everyday wellness, Mark shares how heâs breaking barriers and transforming lives with his cutting-edge device.
In this episode, youâll discover:
The Intersection of Engineering and Wellness
Mark reflects on his unique journey from designing space shuttles to creating Vibe, a compact and portable PEMF device that makes wellness accessible to all.
The Science Behind Vibe
Learn how Vibe works to restore cellular energy, increase ATP, and promote natural healing. Mark explains the innovative technology behind the device and how it compares to traditional PEMF mats.
Transforming Lives with Vibe
Discover the incredible impact Vibe has had on users suffering from PTSD, chronic pain, and other conditions. Mark also highlights its benefits for pets, including custom solutions for cats, dogs, and horses.
Breaking Down Barriers to Innovation
Mark discusses the challenges of introducing groundbreaking technology, from navigating FDA compliance to overcoming skepticism in the marketplace. His hands-on approach to customer service has been key to building trust and awareness.
Expanding into the Animal Wellness Market
Mark explores the untapped potential of PEMF for animals, sharing success stories and his vision for expanding into the pet care and equine industries.
Vibeâs Future Innovations
From vagus nerve toners to waterproof designs, Mark shares his vision for the next generation of Vibe devices and how they will continue to revolutionize wellness.
Markâs Top 3 Tips for Aspiring Innovators:
Stay Persistent: Innovation takes time and countless iterations to get right.Understand Your Market: Listen to your customers and adapt to their needs.Think Big, Start Small: Solve real problems with practical solutions before scaling up.Connect with Mark and Purchase Vibe:
Learn more about Vibe and receive $150 off your purchase at https://resona.health/sacha/.Follow Markâs work and insights at Resona Health. -
I sit down with Scott London, a seasoned entrepreneur, angel investor, and founder of iconic ventures like Aspen Apparel, Zoo York, BP Clothing (Baby Phat), and president of Wu-Wear, to explore his journey and insights into brand building, community development, and the rise of paddle as a sport and lifestyle. With over three decades of experience shaping cultural movements and fostering communities, Scott shares how his passion for connecting people drives his latest endeavor, Golden Pointâa lifestyle brand born from and designed for the paddle community.
In this episode, youâll discover:
The Intersection of Design and Entrepreneurship
Scott reflects on his journey from private label manufacturing to founding iconic fashion brands that defined communities, including the early hip-hop and skateboarding movements.The Rise of Paddle and Its Unique Community
Learn how paddle has evolved into the "new golf," fostering connections and a strong sense of belonging. Scott draws parallels with snowboarding and skateboarding, emphasizing the cultural identity tied to the sport.Golden Point: Born Out of Paddle
Discover how Golden Point caters specifically to the paddle community, with innovative designs like waterproof pockets and an ethos of making the next moment count.Building a Brand Around Community
Scott discusses the challenges of building awareness for an emerging sport and the importance of creating emotional resonance through storytelling and branding.Lifestyle Integration and the Future of Golden Point
From performance wear to casual athleisure, Scott shares his vision of Golden Point as a brand that embodies an active, community-driven lifestyle both on and off the court.Scottâs Top 3 Tips for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:
Pursue Your Passion: Build something you genuinely love and want to immerse yourself in every day.Embrace Perseverance: Stay resilient through challenges and keep pushing forward.Listen to Your Audience: Take inspiration from your community to design products that truly meet their needs.Connect with Scott and explore Golden Point:
Website: GLDNPNT.comInstagram: @GLDNPNT -
In this episode, I sit down with Ellen Mitchell, a real estate professional with over 25 years of experience and a niche in probate, senior relocation, and divorce real estate. Ellen shares how her personal brand, âYour Heels on the Ground,â sets her apart in the competitive South Florida market.
In this episode, youâll discover:
Creating a Niche for Success
Ellen discusses the importance of specializing in a specific area, allowing her to stand out and build a strong reputation.
Going Beyond Real Estate
Learn how Ellen offers unexpected extras like rekeying properties and working with nonprofits to ease the burden on clients.
The Role of Marketing in Real Estate
Ellen shares how tools like Google My Business and educational video content drive her organic growth and build client trust.
Ellenâs Top 3 Tips for Realtors:
Find Your Niche: Specializing can help you stand out in a crowded market.Focus on Service: Lead with value and a client-first mindset.Stay Consistent: Build trust by delivering consistent results and messaging.đș Connect with Ellen: Follow her on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
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I sit down with Dan Lubic, President of DTL Consultants and a member of the Sales Acceleration Advisor Network. Dan brings a wealth of knowledge from his distinguished career at FedEx, where he mastered world-class sales and operational strategies. Together, we discuss how Dan helps small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) implement sales systems once exclusive to the largest corporations.
In this episode, youâll discover:
Lessons from FedEx: World-Class Processes for SMBsDan shares how the best practices from his time at FedExâranging from structured sales processes to leadership coachingâcan be tailored to SMBs to create scalable, efficient sales organizations.Why Sales Processes MatterDan emphasizes the importance of having a unified sales process understood by the entire team and how this consistency helps avoid falling into a price-driven sales strategy.Adapting to a Remote Sales WorldLearn how the shift to remote sales has opened up opportunities for SMBs to access top talent and build agile, effective sales teams.Top Mistakes Sales Leaders Make TodayFrom over-relying on analytics to failing to coach their teams effectively, Dan highlights common pitfalls and offers actionable advice to address them.The Role of Marketing in Sales SuccessDiscover how marketing research and clear messaging are crucial to supporting sales efforts and ensuring alignment between departments.Danâs Top 3 Tips for SMBs to Build Strong Sales Organizations:
Understand Your Value Proposition:Clearly define what sets your product or service apart and communicate it effectively to your team and customers.Invest in a Sales Structure:A great product is only as good as the sales team behind it. Ensure you have a well-defined and scalable sales infrastructure.Focus on Customer Retention:Develop a long-term strategy to continually demonstrate value to existing customers, ensuring repeat business and loyalty.Connect with Dan on LinkedIn
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In this episode, I sit down with Christina DiGiacomo, founder of Everyday Philosophy, a company that brings philosophical insights to business leaders. Christina shares her journey from a high-stakes career in marketing and advertising to building a purpose-driven business, offering valuable lessons on growth, authenticity, and embracing your unique âmagic wand.â
In this episode, youâll discover:
Christinaâs Journey from Marketing to Everyday Philosophy: From a career in marketing, Christina found herself questioning her path and ultimately transitioned into philosophy, helping executives develop resilience, clarity, and authenticity. Her story emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and authenticity in business.The Power of Embracing What Makes You Unique: Christina shares how discovering her âmagic wandââphilosophyâtransformed her career and highlights how focusing on your unique strengths can drive growth.Connecting Deeply with Clients: Understanding clientsâ challenges and building trust is at the heart of Christinaâs approach, showing that empathy and connection are more impactful than just focusing on methodology.The Value of Networking and Community: Christina underscores the importance of community and genuine connections, which proved invaluable in her journey.Cristina's Top 3 Tips for Entrepreneurs:
Invest Wisely: Focus your resources on areas that genuinely support your growth and avoid being swayed by unnecessary courses or programs.Build Community: Find networking groups that allow you to connect and collaborate authentically.Embrace Your Unique Magic Wand: Never shy away from what sets you apart. Your individuality is your greatest asset. -
Nikita Vakhrushev, CEO and founder of ASPEKT, an e-commerce retention agency specializing in email and SMS marketing, shares his journey from print-on-demand drop shipping to building a successful niche agency. With a strong focus on client retention and targeted marketing, Nikitaâs insights offer valuable lessons for business owners on optimizing email and SMS strategies to drive revenue.
In this episode, youâll discover:
Nikitaâs Journey from RPM Media to Aspect
Nikita discusses his early days managing print-on-demand businesses and how he evolved RPM Media into Aspect, focusing on a hyper-specialized approach in email and SMS marketing for e-commerce. He highlights the importance of âniching downâ to provide a tailored, high-quality service to clients, showing how focus on a specific niche can drive exponential business growth.The Role of Email and SMS in E-commerce Retention
Nikita explains the value of email as an owned asset compared to ârented landâ like social media followers. He shares insights on how businesses can harness email and SMS marketing for retention, emphasizing the importance of capturing customer data, nurturing relationships, and providing consistent engagement to maximize long-term revenue.Choosing the Right Marketing Platform
Nikita provides practical advice on selecting email platforms based on business needs. He recommends Klaviyo for e-commerce and ActiveCampaign for B2B, detailing how different platforms can provide distinct advantages for customized automation, integration, and optimization.Transitioning from Manual to Automated Marketing
The discussion dives into the benefits of setting up email and SMS automationsâcovering tasks from customer onboarding to post-purchase engagement. Nikita explains how automations streamline communication and improve customer experiences, allowing businesses to operate efficiently while maintaining high levels of engagement.Leveraging AI and A/B Testing for Campaign Success
Nikita shares how AI aids in ideation, grammar checks, and background design but highlights that AI is not yet a substitute for human-driven content in marketing. He also delves into the importance of A/B testing subject lines, send times, and design elements to optimize campaign performance and conversion rates.Top 3 Tips for Business Owners:
Start email marketing earlyâcapture data from day one.Invest in a quality opt-in experience for new subscribers.Use automations for key customer touchpoints to save time and increase revenue.Tune in to learn how Nikitaâs expertise in email and SMS marketing can help businesses of any size build stronger, more profitable customer relationships.
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Jasmine Glover, a dynamic force in the financial services industry who refers to herself as "the Beyoncé of the financial world." With over a decade of experience, Jasmine has empowered both high-net-worth individuals and everyday families through financial literacy, financial planning, and wealth management. Having worked at notable firms like Prudential and Alliance Global Partners, Jasmine shares her journey from aspiring accountant to successful financial advisor and content creator.
In this episode, youâll discover:
The Evolution of Jasmineâs Financial Journey: Jasmine talks about her transition from pursuing a career in accounting to becoming a financial advisor. She explains how her passion for helping people manage their finances led to a fulfilling career where she supports individuals and families in achieving their financial goals.
Essential Financial Planning for Business Owners: Jasmine dives into the financial challenges faced by small business owners and entrepreneurs, especially when transitioning out of a 9-to-5 job. She breaks down the critical elements of financial planning, including cash management, risk management, and retirement planning, offering valuable advice on how to build financial security while growing a business.
Understanding Wealth Transfer and Estate Planning: Jasmine discusses the often-overlooked topic of wealth transfer and estate planning, explaining how business owners and individuals can ensure that their assets are properly transferred to their beneficiaries. She shares real-life examples and strategies for using insurance and trust to simplify wealth transfer while minimizing taxes.
Breaking Through the Noise on Social Media: As a content creator, Jasmine shares her experience leveraging Instagram to provide financial literacy tips and connect with a broader audience. She discusses the importance of correcting misinformation online and how social media can be a powerful tool for financial advisors to build relationships and grow their client base.
Top 3 Financial Tips for Business Owners: Jasmine leaves the audience with actionable advice, including the importance of having a solid defense plan, building an emergency fund, and planning for retirement, even as business owners focus on growth.
Tune in to this episode to hear Jasmineâs expert insights on financial literacy, wealth management, and how to achieve financial security, especially for small business owners and entrepreneurs.
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In this episode, weâre joined by Brandon Evans, Founder and Chief Elevation Officer of 1heart, a transformative program designed to guide heart-centered leaders through life-changing journeys. Brandon, a former tech entrepreneur, transitioned from building successful companies in New York to discovering a deeper sense of meaning and purpose. His viral article, Lost on Purpose, has inspired countless individuals to seek more fulfilling paths in life.
In this episode, youâll discover:
The Birth of 1heart:Brandon shares the story behind 1heart and its evolution from his own personal journey of self-discovery, including his life-changing experience with ayahuasca and spiritual growth. From selling companies to founding 1heart, Brandon explains how his transition led him to a more meaningful career focused on supporting others.Redefining Success and Fulfillment:Brandon discusses the pressures of traditional success in the startup world and the moment he realized he needed more than financial success. He explains how 1heart was born out of the desire to help others on a similar path, guiding them toward fulfillment and joy by reconnecting with their heartâs purpose.Transformational Journeys for Leaders:1heart is not just about business growth; itâs about personal transformation. Brandon explains how 1heart helps heart-centered leaders align with their true calling through immersive experiences that blend sacred plant medicine, personal development, and community support.The Power of Community and Integration:A key part of 1heartâs success is its emphasis on integration and ongoing support. Brandon shares how participants in 1heart journeys are nurtured through deep community connections and post-journey programs that ensure long-lasting transformation and real-world impact.Navigating the Unknown:Brandon touches on the importance of surrendering to the unknown in lifeâs journey. He explains how 1heart encourages leaders to trust in the process, embrace change, and explore new opportunities for personal and professional growth without fear.Tune in to learn how 1heart is transforming the way leaders approach success, helping them discover purpose, balance, and fulfillment on a much deeper level.
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In this episode, weâre joined by Mona Green, founder of Maua, a transformative program designed to help women reshape their relationship with money through âmatriarchal resource management.â Mona is a speaker, coach, and former finance professional whose impactful work has brought her to stages like the US House of Representatives and Harvard University. Recognized by the Obama administration as a leader in gender equality, she focuses on empowering women to take control of their financial futures.
In this episode, youâll discover:
The Birth of Maua: Mona shares the story behind Maua, a program blending practical finance with emotional and spiritual growth. Her journey, from her transformative experience at Burning Man to a career in coaching, revealed the need for a new, holistic approach to managing money.Empowering Women Financially: Mona explains how Maua supports women in overcoming barriers like self-doubt and systemic challenges. Drawing from years of coaching experience, she highlights why many women struggle with financial confidence and how Maua offers a path to change.A Holistic Approach to Money: Mona details Mauaâs unique structure, combining practical finance skills with personal development. From managing investments to redefining money mindsets, Maua aims to help women build financial clarity and confidence.Balancing Energies for Growth: Mona discusses the importance of balancing masculine and feminine energies in money management. She shares how Maua encourages women to harness both strength and care, fostering a more sustainable approach to financial growth.Tune in to learn how Maua is redefining financial empowerment, providing women with the tools and mindset to manage their resources with purpose, confidence, and a sense of community.
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In this episode, we're joined by Jeff Umbro, founder and CEO of Podglomerate, a company that has been pivotal in redefining podcast production, monetization, and marketing. Jeff oversees all of Podglomerate's service departments, driving both strategy and innovation as the company expands its IP slate and revenue initiatives. Before launching Podglomerate, Jeff worked at Goldberg McDuffie Communications, leading online campaigns for some of the biggest names in literature, including Ben Horowitz, Ariana Huffington, and Stephen King. He has been featured in major outlets like Bloomberg and Morning Brew and has spoken at events like SXSW and Podcast Movement.
In this episode, youâll learn:
1. The Aha Moment Behind Podglomerate: Jeff reveals how his passion for podcasting, sparked during his time as a book publicist, led to the creation of Podglomerate. He shares the journey of identifying a gap in the market, which he first envisioned as an ad agency for smaller podcast publishers, and how this eventually evolved into a full-service podcast company.
2. Navigating a Rapidly Growing Industry: Jeff discusses the challenges of building a podcast agency in an industry that was rapidly growing and changing. He explains how Podglomerate transitioned from working primarily with individual podcasters to supporting larger firms, all while navigating the evolving landscape of podcast advertising and content production.
3. Referral Marketing as a Growth Engine: Learn how word-of-mouth marketing and strong networking played crucial roles in scaling Podglomerate. Jeff emphasizes the power of building authentic relationships in the industry and how client referrals helped the company grow from just one person to a team of 10 full-time employees.
4. Knowing When to Scale and Bringing in the Right People: Jeff shares insights on recognizing the need for help and scaling the business responsibly. He talks about the importance of hiring operational minds to grow a company and how bringing in a chief operating officer helped streamline Podglomerate's processes and made its growth sustainable.
5. Marketing Tactics for a Niche Business: Jeff opens up about Podglomerate's marketing strategyâfrom leveraging organic marketing and relationship-building in the early days to now exploring paid campaigns as a more established business. He provides a candid look at the challenges and opportunities that come with scaling a marketing approach in a niche industry.
6. Advice for Entrepreneurs and Founders: Jeff offers practical advice on building a business from scratch: focusing on word-of-mouth marketing, consuming everything you can about your industry, and learning how to compartmentalize work in a healthy way as an entrepreneur.
This episode provides an in-depth look at the journey of building a podcast company from the ground up, highlighting the importance of scaling responsibly, the power of community, and practical marketing tactics.
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Valerie Khayutin, the CEO of North America for BADESOFA, a company revolutionizing the bath and wellness experience. Originating in Germany, BADESOFA is known for its innovative and comfortable bathtub cushion that transforms an ordinary bath into a spa-like retreat. Valerie shares the journey of bringing this European wellness brand to the U.S. market, discussing the challenges and triumphs along the way.
In this episode, youâll learn:
The Aha Moment Behind Bade Sofa: Valerie shares the story of how the founders of BADESOFA identified a gap in the market for a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing bathtub cushion. Tired of oversized, uncomfortable tubs, they engineered a solution thatâs now disrupting the bath pillow category.Navigating the U.S. Market: Valerie delves into the complexities of launching in the U.S. after the brand's success in Europe. She explains how product-market fit was key in determining if the cushionâs appeal in Germany would translate to North American consumers.Marketing in a Crowded Wellness Industry: Learn how BADESOFA educates consumers on the benefits of their premium product and stands out in a category full of low-cost competitors. Valerie highlights the importance of brand identity and storytelling in differentiating from the rest of the market.The Challenge of Competition and Copycats: Valerie opens up about the realities of entering a new market with a high-end product and the looming possibility of copycat products. She shares how BADESOFA plans to maintain leadership by focusing on their brand values and premium quality.Growth and Future Plans: Valerie discusses BADESOFA's plans for expanding beyond bath cushions, including their latest product, the Pool Sofa. She emphasizes the importance of listening to customers, adjusting product offerings, and executing flawlessly to ensure long-term success.This episode offers a deep dive into the strategy behind bringing an innovative wellness product to a new market, while balancing customer education, competition, and brand building.
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Nathan Yeung, founder of Find Your Audience, a dynamic marketing agency with a deep focus on B2B SaaS. With over 18 years of experience in SEO and more than nine years as a performance digital media buyer, Nathan has driven growth for over 50 clients, including high-profile organizations like Constellation Software and Popcom. His experience ranges from working with top Canadian companies to being engaged by Shark Tankâs Robert Herjavec.
In this episode, youâll learn:
The Importance of Marketing Foundations: Nathan emphasizes how many companies struggle with marketing because they don't fully understand its role in their organization. He discusses the importance of building a solid marketing function rather than just reactively filling gaps, ensuring that marketing efforts align with overall business goals.Challenges in Marketing Across Different Industries: Nathan highlights that marketing isnât a one-size-fits-all approach. While a general strategy can help set a framework, the tactical execution varies significantly across industries. He delves into the nuances of marketing for B2B SaaS companies and the importance of understanding the company's product-market fit.Hiring Internally vs. Externally: One of the key takeaways from Nathanâs insights is the consideration of when to hire internally versus outsourcing to an agency. He explains that for businesses with limited marketing budgets, itâs often more effective to outsource key functions until they have the resources to support a robust in-house team.Nathanâs Unique Approach with Find Your Audience: Nathan shares how his business model fills the gap between strategy and execution. Rather than just delivering a marketing plan, Find Your Audience provides a full team of experts â from content writers to media buyers â who ensure the strategy is executed properly and efficiently.Successful Campaigns & Case Studies: Nathan shares some creative and bold marketing campaigns, including vinyl-wrapping buses and organizing a police motorcade for a major B2B event. He also discusses the effectiveness of upside-down billboards in generating buzz for a local campaign.SEO Insights: Nathan emphasizes that SEO is a mid to long-term strategy that can drive significant growth if executed consistently. He advocates for producing multiple articles per week, optimizing for search engines, and revisiting content to improve performance over time.Nathan also offers key advice to startup founders about finding the right marketing partner, whether it's an industry specialist or an agency with broad experience across different verticals.
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In this episode, we feature Hamlet Azarian, founder and CEO of Azarian Growth Agency, a data-driven full-funnel growth agency with over 20 years of experience. Hamlet specializes in growing B2C and B2B businesses, particularly in venture-backed startups from pre-seed to Series A and B stages. The agency has helped raise over $250 million for innovative tech SaaS companies through creative and analytical growth strategies. They excel in designing custom growth engines and consumer-centric marketing strategies using rapid experimentation and data-driven insights.
Hamlet shares his journey, from his early experiences in the dot-com era, where he learned the tough lessons of startup failure, to his transition into retail and e-commerce. He dives into his passion for growth marketing, his entrepreneurial spirit, and how he founded Azarian Growth Agency to help startups scale faster by providing them with a dedicated team of experts, rather than a single marketing director.
In this episode, youâll learn:
The importance of building a flexible and scalable growth strategy: Hamlet explains how his agency tailors teams and strategies for each client, ensuring they can test and adapt quickly.The challenges of startup marketing: Hamlet breaks down the struggles founders face, from tight budgets to limited resources, and how his agency helps overcome these hurdles.The value of hiring internationally: Hamlet shares his experiences building a talent pool in Armenia and how hiring internationally can help startups access skilled professionals while staying within budget.Real-world success: Hamlet discusses how his agency helped companies like orders.co scale quickly and efficiently, achieving impressive growth metrics while remaining bootstrapped.Hamlet also provides valuable advice for startup founders, emphasizing the importance of persistence and not letting fear or uncertainty hold them back.
To learn more about Hamlet Azarian and his work, visit Azarian Growth Agencyâs website or connect with him on LinkedIn.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation on how growth marketing can be the key to startup success!
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PR takes the spotlight in this episode featuring Linda Zebian, Senior Director of Communications at Muckrack. With over a decade of experience, including a significant tenure at The New York Times, Linda brings a wealth of knowledge in internal and external communications. As a top PR leader recognized by PR Week and Reagan Communications, sheâs here to share her journey and insights on how PR can be a game-changer for small businesses.
Linda discusses the often overlooked value of PR, emphasizing that itâs more than just getting a story publishedâitâs about building lasting relationships and understanding the metrics that truly matter. She dives into the challenges PR professionals face, particularly in proving ROI, and how tools like Muckrack are transforming the way businesses approach public relations.
In this episode, youâll learn:
The importance of PR metrics: Why traditional measurements might not tell the full story and how advanced analytics are reshaping PR.Earned vs. paid media: Linda breaks down why earned media creates trust in ways that paid media canât.Leveraging PR for small businesses: How Muckrack is empowering small businesses to take control of their PR without needing a big budget.Efficiency in PR: The role of technology in streamlining PR efforts, saving time, and ensuring impactful results.Linda also shares a real-world example of how Muckrack helped Betches Media secure major media coverage, proving that with the right tools, even small teams can achieve big results.
Tune in as Linda offers her no-nonsense approach to PR, packed with strategies that can help your business gain the recognition it deserves. Want more insights? Connect with Linda Zebian on LinkedIn or explore what Muckrack can do for you.
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Paid social media marketing takes center stage in this episode with Karleen Scarlett, a digital marketing powerhouse and social media coach with over a decade of experience across the hottest industriesâCPG, hospitality, retail, fintech, and nonprofits. As the founder of Social Blessings LLC, Karleen is all about empowering small business owners to take control of their social media game with one-on-one coaching that cuts through the noise.
Karleen drops gems on crafting killer social media strategies, stressing that for small business owners, knowledge is power. Sheâs all about giving them the tools to not only understand what their social media gurus are doing but also to steer the conversation and create campaigns that actually move the needle.
In this episode, youâll get:
The lowdown on launching your social media presence: Picking the right platform and making sure those clicks lead somewhere valuable.The real deal on repurposing content: Why it's a go in the beginning but needs a serious upgrade to keep your brand sharp.B2C vs. B2B social media strategies: When to tell stories and when to get straight to the point with your audience.Karleen also goes all-in on paid social media, sharing the inside scoop on budgets, targeting, and A/B testing. She breaks down why paid social is the secret weapon every small business needs and how to set up campaigns that actually work. Whether youâre dipping your toes in paid ads or leveling up your current strategy, Karleenâs got the playbook to help you dominate.
Tune in as Karleen dishes out her no-BS approach to social media marketing, packed with real-world strategies to help small businesses thrive in the digital age. Want more? Connect with Karleen Scarlett on LinkedIn or hit up her website at socialblessingsllc.com for all the goods.
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