A Brighter Web | Grow your business with digital marketing

Does it ever feel like something's wrong with the American model of capitalism? If obsession with growth at all costs and maximizing shareholder wealth is disappointing to you, you’re not alone. Many are working to improve this mindset, including Paul Knowlton and Better Capitalism.  Paul literally wrote the book on how to improve our system to work better for everyone, not just the wealthy. Listen in to learn how you can become a part of this movement, especially as a marketer or small business owner. Links Better Capitalism website Better Capitalism book on Amazon Better Capitalism blog Paul on LinkedIn Better Capitalism on LinkedIn Donate to support Better Capitalism

Michael Caldwell is the co-founder of technology agency Black Airplane, and the current mayor of Woodstock, Ga. He's also a futurist who thinks a lot about how technology impacts our lives, especially artificial intelligence. At the 2025 Brighter Web Conference, Michael shared how he foresees AI impacting our lives and work, in both positive and negative ways. Michael’s talk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Y38GCBFQNs  Black Airplane:  https://blackairplane.com/ Michael on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caldwellmichael/  Michael on Wikipedia: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Michael_Caldwell  Mayor Caldwell: https://www.mayorcaldwell.com/ 

Moira Vetter shares her experience founding and running an award-winning marketing agency, Modo Modo, in this talk at the 2025 Brighter Web Conference. Links: Moira’s talk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T3YxRa1sdHA  Modo Modo: https://modomodoagency.com/  Adventure The Book: https://adventurethebook.com/  Moira on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moiravetter/ Marketing Madhouse podcast: https://www.podbean.com/media/share/dir-i3562-24e37caa

Co-founder of the Atlanta-based branding agency, Matchstic, Blake Howard shared how his team develops radical relevance for known brands. This talk was given at the 2025 Brighter Web Conference in Atlanta, Ga. Links: Blake’s talk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ceRz3XgtuKQ  Radically Relevant book: https://learn.matchstic.com/radically-relevant-book  Matchstic: https://matchstic.com/about  Blake on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardblake A Change of Brand podcast: https://www.achangeofbrand.com/about

KWSM agency founder, Katie Wagner, spoke at the 2025 Brighter Web Conference about a new approach to marketing that goes beyond just traditional inbound and outbound—it's called Nearbound Marketing. Links: Katie’s talk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XpCx_TWUnBU&t=364s  Katie’s agency, KWSM: https://kwsmdigital.com/  Katie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiewagnerkwsm/ Nearbound and the Rise of the Who Economy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Nearbound-Rise-Economy-Jared-Fuller/dp/B0CW3DKVQD

At the 2025 Brighter Web Conference, Atlanta tech entrepreneur Jeff Hilimire discusses how dreaming small might be the key to finding meaning in both work and life. He shares from his personal perspective on how starting small has benefited his career and organizations.  Links: Video of Jeff’s talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JNBag5WWheQ  Jeff’s Website: https://jeffhilimire.com/  Dream Small book on Amazon: amazon.com/Dream-Small-Finding-Turnaround-Leadership/dp/B0DXM9VLJL  Ripples Media: https://ripples.media/  Dragon Army: https://dragonarmy.com/  Purpose Group: https://purposegroup.us/ 48in48: https://48in48.org/

Struggling to keep up with the rapid changes in AI technology and its impact on marketing? Discover how small business leaders and marketers can harness AI tools to stay ahead of the curve and enhance their strategies. This episode dives into the benefits and challenges of AI, emphasizing the need for adaptability in a fast-paced digital world. Links Claude ChatGPT Robert’s  AI experiment article

Remote work is more common than ever and a highly desired flexible benefit in many jobs. However, it doesn’t come without its own set of challenges and downsides. Coworking spaces like Fireworks in Marietta, Georgia, offer a good balance between flexibility and community. Courtney Schwartz from Fireworks shares the benefits and community aspects of co-working spaces. Chapters [01:15] Meet Courtney Schwartz [03:00] The Role of Fireworks Coworking [05:45] Benefits of Co-Working Spaces [09:30] Addressing Loneliness in Remote Work [13:00] Inspiring Stories from Fireworks [17:45] How to Maximize Co-Working Opportunities [22:00] Flexibility and Events at Fireworks [26:30] The Growing Demand for Co-Working Spaces [30:00] How to Connect with Fireworks Quotes from Courtney Schwartz "Connecting people together is one of the biggest things that we value here at Fireworks." "It's hard to be creative when you're the only person collaborating on it." "It's more than just a place where you can go to sit and get free coffee and Wi-Fi. It's really something more." Links Fireworks Coworking Email: work@fireworksfly.com  Fireworks on Instagram

Logan Lewis is the creative mind behind Hammerhead Creations and the Your Morning Drive podcast. Logan shares his journey of building a brand that encompasses his diverse creative pursuits, from podcasting to marketing services for small businesses.  Discover how Logan balances his full-time job with his passion projects and the importance of community and personal relationships in his work. Chapters: Introduction to Logan Lewis The Birth of Hammerhead Creations Balancing Full-Time Work and Passion Projects The Role of Community in Business Embracing Failure and Learning Key Quotes "I wanted a company that I could put all my creative fun things under one umbrella." "Community is everything. Opportunities will come your way if you're not just focused on me, me, me." "Be willing to fail. It's necessary in order to succeed." Links Hammerhead Creations and on Instagram Logan Lewis on LinkedIn Your Morning Drive Podcast: Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube Fireworks Co-working Space

Digital marketing isn’t just about posting and hoping people see your content. You also need to do the more difficult work of creating an online community and forming mutually beneficial relationships. What does it actually look like to create an online community? That’s what we’re learning together in our brand-new Brighter Web marketing community. Join us and let’s learn together.

Data is both helpful and overwhelming for marketers. Let’s have an honest conversation about how to manage your flood of online data and make wiser decisions in your business. We’ll cover some common misconceptions, useful tools, and how to focus on what really matters. Highlights Data coordination involves creating client reports and answering data-related questions. Data provides unbiased insights that guide marketing decisions. Understanding data helps avoid operating blindly in business. It's important to filter out spam sources for accurate data reporting. Clients often have specific data needs that must be addressed. Data stories can help clarify business performance. Using tools like Google Analytics and DataBox is essential for data analysis. Marketers should focus on one metric at a time to avoid confusion. Data analysis is an ongoing learning process. Time Stamps Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Data Coordination and Analytics 02:45 The Importance of Data in Marketing 06:06 Understanding and Interpreting Data 09:03 Common Misunderstandings in Data Analytics 12:01 Tools and Resources for Data Analytics 14:51 Practical Advice for Marketers on Data Analytics Links Fathom Analytics Analytics WP Databox Microsoft Clarity   

Conferences can be fun and helpful, or they can be a massive waste of time and money. Overall, we love going to marketing conferences—enough that we wanted to plan one of our own. If you’re in Atlanta on October 9, 2025, we’d love to have you at the first-ever Brighter Web Conference. Even if you can’t make it, here are some insights on what we love about these events and what we’ve learned from planning one.  You can get $50 off your conference ticket with the promo code MEETUP. See you there!

In this episode, our guest Sanjay Parekh discusses the importance of privacy and security in our digital lives. We discuss the balance between convenience and security, the necessity of using strong passwords and unique email addresses, and the tools available to enhance online safety, including password managers and two-factor authentication.  Sanjay emphasizes the need for individuals and small business owners to take proactive steps to protect their information and offers practical advice for implementing better security practices. Takeaways Privacy and security are essential for everyone, not just celebrities. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Using a debit card can expose you to more risk than a credit card. Unique email addresses for each site can help track breaches. Password managers are crucial for maintaining strong, unique passwords. Two-factor authentication adds an important layer of security. Avoid SMS-based two-factor authentication when possible. Consider using a secure USB key for backups of sensitive information. Think critically about the information you share online. Freezing your credit can protect against identity theft. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Privacy and Security 05:11 The Importance of Privacy and Security 08:55 Finding the Right Balance 16:17 Tools for Enhanced Security 25:48 Final Thoughts on Security Practices Links Sanjay’s website: https://www.sanjayparekh.com/  Sanjay on BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/sanjayparekh.com   Together Letters: https://www.togetherletters.com/  Tech Talk Ya’ll: https://www.techtalkyall.com/  Edgewise Media: https://edgewise.media/  Tech Recs Bitwarden: https://bitwarden.com/  Yubikey: https://www.yubico.com/  Mozilla Firefox: https://www.mozilla.org/en-US/firefox/new/  How to freeze your credit score: https://www.usa.gov/credit-freeze 

What are the most impactful web technologies of all time? We were inspired by another podcast to create our very own unscientific list. What tech made the cut? Show Notes Original Hard Fork podcast episode Our Top 30 Technologies List HTML (1993) Google (1998) AOL (& AIM) (early 90’s) iPhone (2007) WordPress (2003) Wikipedia (2001) Cable modems (late 90’s) Facebook (2004) / MySpace (2003) RSS (1999) Gmail (2004) Netscape (1994) Chrome (2008) ChatGPT (2022) SSL (1995) Dropbox (2008) YouTube (2005) Twitter (2006) Dreamweaver (1997)/Photoshop (1990) Reddit (2005) Github (2008) Constant Contact (1995) → Mailchimp (2001) Google Analytics (2005) eBay (1995) → Craigslist (1995) CSS (1996) Salesforce (1999) → Hubspot (2006) Blackberry (late 90’s) Geocities (1994) BBS (late 70’s) MapQuest (1996) → Google Maps (2005) Archie (1990) → Yahoo (1994) / WebCrawler (1994) → Lycos, Altavista, Hotbot (mid-90’s) Linux (1991) Honorable Mentions Google Wave Flash animation SMS PHP VPN or TOR Java

It’s 2025! At the end of 2024, we recorded our reactions to an article predicting some of the biggest trends and ideas for the new year. Which of these will come true and which will flop? Only time will tell. Original article from LinkedIn: 25 Big Ideas that will change our world in 2025 Here are the items from the list that we discussed in depth: #1: AI will lead to a more productive and shorter (four-day) workweek #3: Big brands will start inhouse corporate influencers #12: Streaming services (like Hulu and Netflix) will start to offer more bundled services #13: Social media platforms will continue to splinter and niche down #14: Virtual reality (VR) will be used more for travel #18: Hybrid work cultures will rely on more in-person meetings like lunches #19: AI will allow more businesses to be more accessible (especially online) #20: Corporations will start demanding more practical uses of AI Which of these predictions do you agree with? What do you think is missing from the list? Email us with feedback at podcast@greenmellenmedia.com.

In this episode of the Brighter Web Podcast, we talk to Laura Beth Daws about the critical role of communication in team building. They explore the challenges of hybrid work environments, the importance of self-awareness, and the need for psychological safety within teams.  Laura emphasizes that effective communication is not just about conveying messages but about fostering connections and understanding individual roles within a team. She also highlights the significance of listening as a leadership skill and the value of external perspectives in improving team dynamics. Links LBD Communications LBD Communications on LinkedIn Laura Beth Daws on LinkedIn Takeaways Communication is essential for connection and team success. Miscommunication often stems from assumptions about ease of communication. Self-awareness enhances individual contributions to team dynamics. Psychological safety allows team members to express dissenting opinions. Listening is a crucial skill for effective leadership. Understanding different communication styles can improve interactions. External consultants can provide valuable insights into team dynamics. Team roles influence how individuals contribute to group success. Effective communication can mitigate the challenges of hybrid work. Continuous learning about oneself aids in better teamwork. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Team Building and Communication 03:00 The Importance of Communication in Teams 05:48 Challenges in Hybrid Work Environments 08:51 Self-Awareness and Team Dynamics 12:02 Psychological Safety in Teams 15:12 Listening as a Key Leadership Skill 18:00 Utilizing External Perspectives for Improvement Quotes "Miscommunication happens for many reasons." "Communication is all about connection." "Self-awareness is key for team players." "Psychological safety is essential for teams." Keywords team building, communication, workplace dynamics, hybrid work, self-awareness, psychological safety, listening skills, leadership, consulting, corporate training

Diversity is an often discussed but just as frequently misunderstood topic—including in marketing. What does being inclusive in digital marketing mean, and why is it important? We invited a marketer with experience dealing with these questions to join us on the podcast. Let’s learn from Daniela Cintron how we can all be more diverse in our representation to reach wider audiences and connect with them more deeply and authentically.

YouTube is the second-largest search engine online and the largest video platform. Video is becoming an increasingly powerful way to reach people online; however, producing and sharing meaningful video content is a challenge. In this episode, we talk to video production professional Kendrich Disch about the basics of growing your following on YouTube. Links verticalriver.co - video production agency in Atlanta tubeworks.co - Done for your YouTube channel management growthlab.tubeworks.co - DIY resources (courses, templates, downloads, community, etc) Rode mics: https://rode.com/en-us/microphones/wireless/wireless-me

Every small business owner understands that social media is meant to be part of your online presence. But which platforms should you be active on? How often should you post? What’s the goal with social media? Do you need to pay for ads? Liz Bachmann manages organic social media and more for small businesses and joins us on the podcast to answer these questions and more. Show Notes Wildflower Social Media website Wildflower Social on Instagram Wildflower Social on YouTube Liz Bachmann on LinkedIn MetriCool Social Media tool

Over 40% of websites are built using WordPress—the popular open-sourced content management system. But do you need to be a web developer to build an effective website using WordPress. To break this down, we invited our friend and WordPress web creator, April Wier, to the podcast. Links WordPress CMS April Wier’s website April on Facebook Sugar Five Design Woodstock WordPress Meetup