Brand for Good

What if you didn't need millions of views—or constant content—to build a profitable, trusted brand? In this episode of Brand for Good, I'm joined by Nate Woodbury, CEO of Be The Hero Studios, to explore why YouTube remains one of the most underutilized authority-building platforms for experts. Nate shares how search-based YouTube content—not trends or virality—can turn your expertise into predictable leads. We unpack why YouTube functions as an answer engine, how highly specific questions outperform popular topics, and how as few as 100 targeted views can generate meaningful revenue when trust is built first. If you're a coach, consultant, speaker, or educator who wants visibility that actually converts—without burnout—this episode will change how you think about content. In This Episode, We Discuss: Why YouTube is still one of the strongest platforms for authority-building The difference between marketing (being discovered) and nurturing (building trust) Nate's LEAF Strategy for search-driven video content Why specific, low-volume questions outperform viral content How experts are using YouTube to generate leads, clients, and speaking opportunities What you actually need to get started (and what you don't)   Guest Links: Free training: The LEAF Strategy – https://theleafstrategy.com Book: A Hero's Guide to Influence on YouTube Company: Be The Hero Studios   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Follow Lorraine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-178-how-to-build-authority-on-youtube-without-going-viral-with-nate-woodbury

2026 isn't another year of incremental change—it's a reset. In this episode of Brand for Good, I break down the most important marketing shifts shaping the year ahead and explain where leaders should focus to build credibility, trust, and growth that compounds. From B2B and boutique businesses to B2C brands and nonprofit organizations, the common thread is clear: visibility alone no longer wins—credibility does. I walk through what's changing, what's no longer working, and how AI, personalization, community, and reputation are reshaping how people discover, evaluate, and choose brands in 2026. B2B Marketing: From Selling Attention to Enabling Decisions In B2B, marketing is shifting from generating interest to enabling confident buyer decisions, with clarity, AI-informed insight, and account-based precision replacing vague messaging, volume tactics, and sales-led explanations. Boutique Businesses: Positioning, Relationships, and Story as Growth Engines For solopreneurs and boutique firms, growth in 2026 comes not from visibility or algorithms, but from clear positioning, small trusted communities, referral momentum, and storytelling that helps people understand what you stand for and why you're different. B2C Marketing: AI-Driven Discovery Meets Human Trust In B2C, AI is now the front door to discovery, but human connection is what drives choice—meaning brands must balance machine-readable clarity with authentic storytelling, creator-led trust, and community-driven credibility. Nonprofit Marketing: Stewardship, Not Promotion Nonprofit marketing in 2026 is defined by personalized donor engagement, year-round digital community building, and transparent impact storytelling that helps donors feel known, involved, and confident their support is making a real difference. The Unifying Shift Across Every Sector Across all four categories, one truth stands out: credibility compounds. In an AI-driven world, trust increasingly comes from what others say about you—your partnerships, reputation, impact, and consistency—not just your own content. The brands that will win in 2026 aren't the loudest or the most prolific. They're the ones that are clear, credible, cited, and believed. Resources & Next Steps If this episode helped you refocus on what actually matters, I invite you to explore the Category of One Brand Lab, where I help leaders turn expertise, trust, and belief into a brand that leads its market. https://categoryofonebrand.com/lab   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Follow Lorraine on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Want real marketing guidance and support for less than $50/month? Join the Brand Lab: https://categoryofonebrand.com/lab Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-177-the-state-of-marketing-in-2026

Every year, I choose a word—not as a resolution or a trend, but as a filter. A way to make decisions when the options are many, the noise is loud, and everything looks like an opportunity. This year, my word is alignment. In this episode, I'm sharing how I'm using alignment as a decision-making lens in both my business and my life—and why this concept isn't just personal reflection, but a practical leadership tool you can use too. If you've ever felt successful but stretched thin… visible but slightly off… or busy without a clear sense of momentum, this conversation is for you. In this episode, I explore: Why alignment matters more than growth for long-term sustainability How misalignment often shows up quietly—before it becomes burnout How my 2025 word set the stage for alignment in 2026 How alignment turns intuition into intentional decision-making What alignment looks like in business—from positioning to offers to visibility Simple reflection questions to help you recalibrate without burning everything down This episode is an invitation to choose a clearer filter for your decisions, your work, and your growth. Not perfection. Not pressure. Just integrity, intention, and honesty with yourself.   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-176-how-my-word-of-the-year-works-for-you

Thirteen years ago, I didn't start Prosper for Purpose with a business plan. I started it with a belief. That businesses could do well by doing good. That talking openly about values could help a business—not hurt it. And that trust—not visibility—would eventually become the most valuable currency of all. At the time, many people told me that belief was naive. In this episode, I reflect on what the past thirteen years have actually proven—and why building a brand that lasts has far less to do with chasing algorithms, trends, or tactics, and everything to do with alignment. This isn't a highlight reel. It's a manifesto. I share the story behind founding Prosper for Purpose, the tension between impact and income that shaped my career, and the moments when holding onto belief felt risky, uncertain, and expensive. I talk about what the market taught me, how the work evolved from implementation to strategy and advisory, and why clarity—not activity—is what leaders need most right now. We explore: Why so many leaders think their marketing isn't working when the real issue is positioning How "being for everyone" quietly erodes trust and authority Why growth often requires subtraction, not addition The cost—and the reward—of choosing alignment over safety What it really means to build a Category-of-One brand in an era of look-alike marketing If you're in a season where the old playbook no longer fits—where what used to work feels heavy, misaligned, or hollow—this episode is for you. Because you're not failing. You're evolving. And the brands that last aren't the loudest. They're the clearest. Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-175-i-built-a-business-on-a-beliefnot-a-business-plan

Speaking is often treated like a visibility play. Get on a stage. Be seen. Build awareness. But in this episode, I sit down with presentation strategist and communication expert Aurora Gregory to talk about why speaking is actually one of the most strategic forms of brand-building PR available to leaders right now. Aurora has spent more than 25 years behind the scenes helping executives, entrepreneurs, and experts turn complex ideas into clear, compelling presentations that connect and convert. And what she shares in this conversation reinforces something I deeply believe: Speaking isn't performance. It's connection. And connection is trust. In this episode, we explore: What event planners and podcast hosts actually look for when choosing speakers Why your written pitch matters more than your speaker reel at first How to create a signature talk that positions you clearly and memorably The biggest mistake speakers make when they try to "teach everything" How to ethically and effectively move an audience to action How speaking fuels real business growth — not just visibility Aurora also introduces her "Get Picked" framework, a strategic approach to helping speakers land stages by clearly articulating the transformation they deliver — not just their credentials. This episode will shift how you think about using your voice, your ideas, and your expertise to build a brand people trust.   Guest Links  Website: https://auroragregory.com/ The Stage Whisperer Podcast: https://auroragregory.com/podcast Aurora's FREE One Page Wonder Speaker Webpage Checklist: https://getpickedtospeak.com/checklist Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/auroragregory/ Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-174-get-picked-public-speaking-framework-with-aurora-gregory

There's something unique about the days between Christmas and New Year's. The rush has passed, the next chapter hasn't begun, and for a brief moment, we're invited into stillness. This final episode of 2025 is not about goals, predictions, or productivity. It's about intention. In this conversation, I share how I'm personally closing the year — through reflection, journaling, and sitting with the same questions I've been asking throughout the last few episodes: questions about impact, alignment, leadership, and what this season of business and life is really asking of us. I talk openly about what 2025 required of me, including the difficult decision to let go of a core stand-alone service that had produced strong revenue — not because it failed, but because I knew it no longer worked on its own in a changing market. Making space without guarantees was uncomfortable, but it opened the door to what my heart was calling me to create next. You'll hear what sustained me this year — especially the power of being in the same room with people, sharing space, conversation, and connection — and how clearing space allowed me to return more fully to writing and teaching, the two things I've wanted to do since I was nine years old. That space made it possible to launch both the beta version of my brand program and the Category of One Brand Lab, my brand and marketing membership — offerings that feel deeply aligned with who I am and how I want to serve. We also explore the difference between goals and intentions. So often, we hit a goal only to immediately set the next one. Intention works differently. Intention creates room to expand — to grow into the kind of work, leadership, and impact that feels sustainable and honest. As I look ahead to 2026, I share what I'm expanding into next: more writing, launching my Substack, growing opportunities to speak and teach, and finally finishing my book — not from urgency, but from alignment. This episode is an invitation to slow down, to listen, and to close the year with wisdom rather than pressure. If you're feeling the pull to release what no longer fits and carry forward what strengthened you, I hope this conversation meets you right where you are.   Brand for Good Links Learn more about the Category of One Brand program and the Brand Lab monthly membership. Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-173-what-to-carry-forward-into-2026-and-what-to-leave-behind

As we prepare to step into 2026, I wanted to offer something more meaningful than predictions or tactics — a strategic blueprint for building impact and influence in a year that will demand more clarity, not more noise. In this episode, I share what I believe 2026 is really asking of purpose-driven leaders and entrepreneurs. Content will continue to accelerate. AI will make visibility easier than ever. But trust — real trust — will become the most valuable currency. This conversation is about how impact and influence work together — and why you can't sustain one without the other. I walk you through the three core levers that will shape the brands that thrive in 2026: Identity & Category of One clarity — knowing who you are, who you serve, and what you stand for High-trust visibility — communicating your thinking, not chasing attention Strategic connection — building community, collaboration, and relationships that compound over time We also explore why 2026 is not a reinvention year, but a realignment year. This is the time to refine what already works, release what no longer fits, and lead with conviction instead of performance. I share the three questions I believe every leader should answer before the year begins — questions that simplify decision-making, sharpen focus, and anchor strategy in clarity rather than chaos. This episode is not about doing more. It's about doing what matters. And doing it with intention. If you're looking to build a brand that earns trust, creates real impact, and leads with purpose in 2026, this conversation is your starting point.   Brand for Good Links Learn more about the Category of One Brand program and the Brand Lab monthly membership. Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-172-your-2026-impact-influence-blueprint

As 2025 comes to a close, I wanted to pause before jumping into strategy and planning — and reflect on what this year actually taught us about leadership, clarity, and impact. This wasn't a year that rewarded the loudest brands or the busiest leaders. It was a year that revealed what was already there. Visibility increased. Content exploded. AI accelerated everything. But trust didn't keep pace. In this episode, I share what I've observed — in my own leadership, in my clients, and across the market — about why clarity has quietly become the most important leadership skill of our time. We talk about why impact isn't accidental, how misalignment drains energy and trust, and why brands with deep identity and conviction grew steadily and sustainably this year. I also walk you through the Quadruple Bottom Line I use to define real impact: People Planet Profit Purpose Using that framework, I invite you into a meaningful year-end reflection — not focused on vanity metrics, but on alignment, stewardship, and long-term contribution. You'll also hear a 2025 Impact Audit, a simple but powerful exercise I use with my clients to help them see their year clearly, compassionately, and honestly — and to uncover what this season is asking of them next. This episode is about leadership before tactics. Clarity before momentum. Reflection before reinvention. It sets the foundation for the next two episodes, where we'll explore impact more deeply and then move into a strategic blueprint for 2026. If you're feeling the pull to slow down, reassess, and realign before the new year — this conversation is for you.   Brand for Good Links Learn more about the Category of One Brand and the Brand Lab Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-171-impact-isnt-accidental-how-to-end-2025-with-clarity-and-intention

AI has completely changed the way people discover brands, evaluate expertise, and decide who to trust online. For the first time in more than a decade, we're not optimizing for search engines anymore — we're optimizing for generative engines like Google's AI Overviews, ChatGPT Search, Perplexity, and Bing Copilot. And that means our entire approach to visibility has to evolve. In this episode, I break down the biggest shift I've seen since the rise of internet marketing: the move from traditional SEO to GEO — Generative Engine Optimization. I also explain why blogs — yes, blogs! — have become one of the most powerful tools for visibility in 2025 and beyond. Here's what I cover: Why SEO isn't enough anymore? I explain how generative search works and why keywords no longer determine visibility. How AI actually decides who is credible? From clarity and structure to author identity, I walk you through the four signals AI looks for when elevating content. Why blogs are outperforming every other content format? I share how blogs create "answerable chunks" AI can extract, cite, and trust — and why this gives small business owners a huge advantage. How to use AI the right way when creating content? There's a clear difference between AI as an assistant and AI as an author. I teach you how to use the tool without losing your voice. The biggest mistakes that hurt your visibility. From generic prompts to over-polished content, I cover the habits that generative engines immediately deprioritize. Why trust — not tactics — drives modern visibility? We're living through a trust recession, and I break down how to create content that builds true authority in an AI-driven world. If you want clarity on how to show up online in a way that builds credibility, authority, and long-term discoverability, this episode will give you the roadmap. I'm sharing the strategies I'm using with clients, in my own business, and inside the Category of One Brand Lab — because this shift is too big to ignore. Listen now and learn how to position your brand as the trusted answer in your niche.   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prospzerforpurpose.com Episode Link:  https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-170-blogs-ai-search-the-new-rules-of-visibility

The world is changing faster than ever — platforms shift, buyer behavior evolves, and what worked two years ago rarely works today. In this episode, I reveal why most small business owners struggle to keep up and what it really takes to build a brand that stays relevant no matter what the market is doing. Drawing from the teachings inside my Category of One Brand Program and the ongoing work inside the Category of One Brand Lab, I share the identity-driven philosophy that helps purpose-driven entrepreneurs adapt with confidence, instead of reacting with panic. You'll learn: Why your brand must evolve — but your identity shouldn't How to adapt to market shifts without diluting your message Where innovation should happen inside your brand How purpose becomes your brand's unshakeable compass What relevance actually means in 2025 and beyond The difference between aligned visibility and exhausting visibility How the new Category of One Program gives you a foundation — and the Brand Lab gives you amplification If you're ready to stop changing your brand every time the world does — and start leading with clarity, confidence, and longevity — this episode will give you the strategy and grounding you need.   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-169-how-to-future-proof-your-brand  

What can small business owners learn from one of the most innovative marketing teams in higher education? A lot more than you might think. In this episode, I sit down with Kelly Hiller, Chief Marketing Officer of Purdue Brand Studio, and Bailey Leffler, Director of Brand — two women who are rewriting the rules on brand partnerships, storytelling, and creative risk-taking. Purdue University has become known for pushing boundaries: the Hello Sunshine collaboration, the Taylor Swift "STEM Era" activation with e.l.f., the record-shattering Solar Eclipse event at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, and the emotionally charged "What Can You Imagine at Purdue?" brand film. These aren't just campaigns. They're bold, strategic moves rooted in possibility, alignment, and a crystal-clear brand platform. In this conversation, Kelly and Bailey pull back the curtain on: Possibility as a discipline — how they create a "shoot your shot" culture where big ideas can grow. Freedom within the framework — why brand constraints actually increase creativity. Collaborations that make history — what separates a logo-slap sponsorship from a revenue-generating, reputation-building partnership. Emotional intelligence in leadership — how Kelly leads more than 100 creatives with trust, clarity, and cultural alignment. The power of internal buy-in — why brand storytelling only works externally when your team understands who you are internally. Data-backed creativity — how every bold move is rooted in research, clear KPIs, and strategic iteration. The future of higher-ed marketing — and what small business owners can borrow from Purdue's approach right now. Whether you're a solopreneur, a founder, or a small business owner trying to stand out in a noisy marketplace, this episode will teach you how to think bigger, partner smarter, and build a brand that feels both audacious and aligned. If Purdue can make history through bold, strategic storytelling… so can you.   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-168-purdue-universitys-bold-brand-moves

If you've ever felt overwhelmed trying to figure out whether you need branding, marketing, PR, content creation, or copywriting… this episode will feel like a deep exhale. Most business owners aren't confused because they're inexperienced — they're confused because the industry has done a poor job defining its own terms. Everyone uses the same words to mean different things, and people end up hiring the wrong kind of help at the wrong time. To help you avoid losing time and money, I explain the real definitions behind the terms and give you a clear roadmap so you finally know what your business actually needs next. I also share why I shifted from calling myself a PR strategist to a brand strategist — and how that shift helped my clients get far better, more sustainable results. We'll talk about: The real difference between branding, marketing, and PR (not the misleading versions) Why branding must come before marketing — always Why most business owners hire the wrong help How the industry created the confusion you feel My experience writing radio spots, restaurant ads, and ad campaigns for brands like Jeep and Nabisco The moment I realized PR wasn't enough My signature formula: Brand Identity + PR = Reputation How to know whether you need branding, PR, or marketing right now And if you want support building your identity, strengthening your reputation, and becoming the go-to in your field, I invite you to join me inside the Category of One Brand Lab. The Lab is a monthly membership that teaches you the strategy and storytelling necessary to become the go-to expert in your field. The Lab is just $47/month or $477/year, and doors open today   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-167-stop-confusing-branding-marketing

After hosting this year's Women's Entrepreneurship Day Ohio Summit, I was reminded of why I love what I do — because growth doesn't happen in isolation. It happens in rooms filled with conversation, collaboration, and community. Connection is powerful. In this episode, I share how that realization is shaping everything I'm doing next — from my work at Prosper for Purpose to co-leading Everbloomer, a community for women 40 and beyond who want to grow, connect, and prosper together. You'll hear why I believe connection isn't a soft skill — it's a strategy, a catalyst, and the infrastructure of change. And how one conversation, one collaboration, or one community can transform your business and your impact. If you've been craving deeper relationships, more aligned partnerships, or a clearer sense of purpose in your work, this conversation will remind you that you don't have to grow alone. In this episode, you'll learn: Why connection is the most underrated growth strategy. How communities like Everbloomer and events like WED Ohio create compound impact. The difference between scaling a business and expanding an ecosystem. Simple ways to nurture relationships that lead to meaningful growth. Mentioned in this episode: Women's Entrepreneurship Day Ohio Everbloomer Prosper for Purpose Because connection is how we scale business. Impact is how we grow meaning. And both start with a single conversation.   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-166-connection-as-a-catalyst

If you think profit is the most important financial number to track in your business, think again. In this episode, I'm joined by Karl Maier, founder of Abunden, to discuss the real driver of sustainable business growth—cash flow. Karl's experience as a CFO and business advisor has helped companies double their sales in just two years. He's led multimillion-dollar acquisitions, expanded credit lines, and built the financial systems that turn growth into stability. But it all comes back to one core truth: a profitable business can still fail if it doesn't manage its cash. We dive into: Why rapid growth can cause cash flow problems—and how to prevent them. How to forecast cash flow short-term and long-term to avoid financial surprises. The smart way to use credit as a tool (not a trap). How clean books and clear financial systems can help you secure better financing and scale faster. What business owners can do to protect themselves from relying too heavily on one client or one revenue stream. Karl also shares lessons from his own journey, including a hard-earned family business story that shaped his passion for helping entrepreneurs avoid preventable financial crises. His message is practical, timely, and deeply relevant for service-based founders navigating today's uncertain economy. Whether you're growing fast or just trying to get ahead of your next payroll cycle, this episode will help you see your business through a more strategic, cash-smart lens.   Connect with Karl Maier LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlkmaier/ Website: abunden.com   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-165-focusing-on-profit-can-flatline-your-business-with-karl-maier

Many great leaders are doing everything "right," yet unintentionally eroding the power of their own brands. Not intentionally, of course… and not because they're careless, but because of subtle misalignments that quietly erode trust, credibility, and connection. In this episode, I'm breaking down the five biggest mistakes—and how to fix them before they cost you the influence and authority you've worked so hard to build. Here's what you'll learn: Why your brand energy matters more than your strategy—and how to realign it. How "professional" language can turn your message invisible. The difference between humility and invisibility (and why pride can be powerful). Why your old story might be holding you back from your next level. How to move from teaching to leading by sharing perspective, not repetition. If you've been showing up, posting consistently, and still wondering why your brand isn't converting the way it should, this episode will help you identify the unseen friction points that are holding you back. Your brand doesn't need more content—it needs alignment. 🎧 Listen now to Episode 164: "5 Ways You're Hurting Your Brand (Without Even Realizing It)   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-164-5-ways-youre-hurting-your-brand-without-even-realizing-it

In this episode, I sit down with my friend and fellow BNI Premier member, Jill Katzenberg — a relationship expert, real estate mentor, and gratitude consultant — to explore what she calls "the currency of business": connection. Jill shares how moving to Cleveland without knowing anyone led her to build a thriving real estate career and, eventually, a new calling as a gratitude consultant. Her approach is simple but profound: lead with kindness, act on promptings, and make every touchpoint meaningful. We talk about: How to stand out in any industry through genuine human connection Why handwritten notes and thoughtful gestures create lifelong loyalty The mindset shift that turns "sales" into service How consistency in gratitude and acknowledgment builds trust and referrals Why being nice isn't soft — it's smart business This conversation is a refreshing reminder that while technology keeps us visible, it's our humanity that keeps us connected. Jill's philosophy proves that doing business with heart doesn't just feel good — it works. Connect with Jill Katzenberg https://www.linkedin.com/in/5stardiva/ https://www.facebook.com/jillkatzenberg jillkatzenberg@gmail.com Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-163-the-currency-of-connection-with-jill-katzenberg

Have you ever felt like being multi-passionate made your brand messy? You're not alone. So many founders, creatives, and service providers resist the advice to "pick one thing" because it feels like shrinking yourself instead of sharpening your focus. In this episode of Brand for Good, I'm sharing how to build a brand that honors all your passions—without confusing your audience or diluting your message. You'll learn how to connect your ideas, offers, and talents under one cohesive brand umbrella so your business feels clear, intentional, and fully aligned with who you are. We'll talk about: Why the "pick one thing" myth is outdated—and what to do instead. How to define your brand umbrella using your belief, transformation, and lens. The difference between a patchwork brand and a portfolio brand (and how to make the shift). Three brand models that work beautifully for multi-passionate founders: the Master Brand, House of Brands, and Ecosystem Model. How to know when your brand is aligned—and what steps to take if it's not. If you've ever struggled to bring all your passions together in a way that feels clear and cohesive, this episode will give you the structure and permission to do exactly that. Remember: you don't need to choose between your passions. You just need to connect them through purpose.   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-162-how-to-build-a-brand-when-youre-multi-passionate

As the air cools and the leaves begin to fall, I'm reminded that every season has a purpose. For me, fall has always represented reflection and renewal — both in life and in business. In every role I've ever held, fall was the time to plan and budget for the following year, and that rhythm has stayed with me. Now, as the founder of Prosper for Purpose, I find that Q4 is not a time to slow down — it's actually one of our busiest seasons. Many new clients come to us ready to align their messaging, refine their strategies, and prepare for a strong start to the new year. In this episode, I explore the symbolism and significance of the fourth quarter — how, just like farmers, we can harvest what we've built while also sowing the seeds for what's to come. I share how to: Celebrate your harvest — take time to acknowledge what you've achieved, even if you didn't hit every goal. Evaluate your soil — reflect on your marketing, sales, systems, and team to see what's thriving and what needs to change. Plant your seeds — begin mapping next year's vision now, so your business is ready to grow when the new year arrives. The truth is, the harvest is what most leaders miss. We get so focused on what's next that we forget to celebrate what is. But gratitude fuels the energy and optimism we need to finish the year strong — and to step into the next one with purpose and confidence. As we move through this final quarter, I encourage you to pause and ask yourself: What will I harvest from this year? And what will I sow for the one ahead? I also share some exciting news: Prosper for Purpose is about to announce our annual Vision Casting Retreat and a new opportunity to work with me directly on your marketing and PR planning for the year ahead. Use the link in the show notes to join our email list so you'll be the first to hear about both opportunities — and receive resources to help you finish this year strong and plant the seeds for your most purposeful year yet.   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-161-q4-what-will-you-harvest-and-what-will-you-sow

What if your marketing didn't just build demand—but also made the internet more accessible for everyone? In this episode, Lorraine sits down with Mike Barton, VP of Corporate Communication & Content Marketing at AudioEye (and formerly Adobe), to explore why accessibility belongs at the center of brand strategy. You'll learn: A simple definition of digital accessibility (and how it differs from, yet relies on, inclusive design). Why accessibility is not a checkbox but an ongoing practice—and how to start wherever you are. The business case: stronger SEO, improved conversion, and loyal audiences (including friends/family networks). Quick wins for marketers: meaningful alt text, keyboard-friendly navigation, captions/transcripts for video, and intentional use of emojis and em dashes so screen readers don't derail your message. Content principles that endure in the AI era: simplicity, authentic storytelling, and the mantra "data informs, emotion transforms." How teams with smaller budgets can use technology + smart processes to make steady progress. A free way to scan your site and identify accessibility issues (Mike shares where to do it and what to expect). About Mike Barton Mike leads corporate communications and content marketing at AudioEye, a digital accessibility platform serving companies from startups to global enterprises. Previously at Adobe, he shaped content and executive messaging across Experience Cloud, Creative Cloud Enterprise, and Document Cloud. Mike specializes in aligning business goals with human needs through story-driven, accessible digital experiences.   Resources Mentioned AudioEye — free website accessibility scan (mentioned in-episode) Mike Barton on LinkedIn (connect & continue the conversation)   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-160-marketing-that-includes-digital-accessibility-with-mike-barton-audioeye

If you're a regular listener, you know how I love a good story. Story helps us connect, learn, and remember. But what if the stories we tell ourselves are harmful? In this episode of Brand for Good, I'm unpacking the top 10 destructive beliefs entrepreneurs carry—from "I already know this" to "Once I hit X milestone, I'll finally feel successful." These beliefs might sound reasonable, but in reality, they quietly sabotage progress. Together, we'll explore the bias or mindset behind each belief and then flip it with the truth that actually leads to growth. You'll walk away with practical reframes you can use right away to stop sabotaging yourself and start building momentum. If you've ever told yourself you don't have the time, the money, or that something "just won't work for you," this episode is a must-listen.   Brand for Good Links Email your thoughts about this episode: connect@prosperforpurpose.com Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/ Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com Episode Link: https://theprosperproject.libsyn.com/website/episode-159-how-to-debunk-destructive-beliefs