Brand for Good

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

Today would have been my dad's 91st birthday, and as I reflect on his life and leadership, I am reminded of the state of compassion in our world today. My dad spent his career as a city manager and chief administrative officer. He negotiated with unions, worked with city councils, and built trust by listening, respecting, and connecting with people—even when they disagreed. In this episode, I share personal insights from my dad's legacy and explore why compassion is not a weakness but a radical strength in leadership. From online hate to real-world divisions, we've lost some of our ability to see one another as human first. But compassionate leadership can change that. Inside, I walk you through: Why compassion is a non-negotiable for leaders today How my dad modeled compassionate leadership in action 5 practical steps to become a more compassionate leader Why compassion builds the trust that every leader and brand depends on This is an invitation to pause, listen, and lead with heart in a world that desperately needs 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-158-compassionate-leadership-lessons-from-my-dad

You've heard it a thousand times: people do business with brands they know, like, and trust. But here's the challenge: we're living through a trust recession. Just like in an economic downturn, where money is scarce and harder to earn, trust is now scarce and harder to build. In this episode, I share: Why the trust recession is happening (and the two root causes I see most clearly) What it means to strengthen the pillars of know, like, and trust in today's marketplace Why being a Category of One requires not just words, but proof How to create consistent opportunities for people to know you The role of micro-commitments in helping people "like" your brand Why trust takes longer to build than ever—and how to earn it through consistency and generosity The reality is that shortcuts don't work anymore. But if you commit to clarity, proof, and patience, you'll build a brand that not only stands apart—but stands the test of time.   Brand for Good Links Join the waitlist for the Category of One Brand program: https://categoryofonebrand.com/ 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-157-building-know-like-trust-in-a-trust-recession

Most entrepreneurs try to stand out by doing more — more offers, more hustle, more marketing. But here's the truth: doing more doesn't make you different. Thinking differently does. In this episode of Brand for Good, I share the shift that changes everything: Category of One Thinking. This isn't just a marketing tactic — it's a mindset. It's the process of moving beyond comparison and competition, and instead claiming the space that only you can fill. You'll learn: Why every business is unique, but most don't sound unique What a Category of One Statement really is — and how it reshapes your positioning Stories of clients who went from generic to magnetic Three steps to begin crafting your own Category of One Statement The ripple effect this clarity creates across your brand, marketing, and confidence If you've ever felt stuck in a crowded market, this episode will show you a new way forward because the market doesn't need more information. It needs leaders who think differently.   Brand for Good Links Join the waitlist for the Category of One Brand program: https://categoryofonebrand.com/ 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-156-the-brand-shift-that-changes-everything

We've all been told to "educate our audience." But what if all that explaining is actually hurting your ability to sell? In this episode, I break down why more information doesn't lead to more conversions—and what actually does. I talk about my concept of belief-based branding and how it accelerates trust, shortens the sales cycle, and positions you as the obvious choice in your space. I cover: Why explaining your offer in detail often repels the right clients The difference between clarity and connection Three powerful messaging shifts to create emotional resonance How to use belief—not just benefits—to affirm identity and drive action If you've ever thought "they'd buy if they just understood what I do," this episode is your wake-up call. And if you're ready to build a brand that leads with trust and converts with ease, get on the waitlist for Category of One Brand at https://categoryofonebrand.com/ Let's stop over-educating and start aligning with what your audience already believes.   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-156-the-brand-shift-that-changes-everything

Today's conversation with Heather Hetchler, MA, is one that will stick with me for a long time. Heather is an author, speaker, and communication consultant who equips women in midlife to face unexpected challenges with clarity, confidence, and courage. A seasoned relationship coach and breast cancer survivor, Heather is a master at reframing our most difficult life transitions into opportunities for growth. We dive into why work-life balance is a myth, the power of perspective when navigating personal and professional challenges, and how grief is often the hidden thread running through so many of life's changes. Heather shares powerful stories from her coaching practice—from stepfamily dynamics to empty nesting to navigating workplace boundaries—that show how small shifts in perspective can transform relationships. And at the heart of this episode is emotional intelligence—the ability to be self-aware, to see situations through the other person's eyes, to navigate the intertwining of work and life, and to respond with compassion and intentionality even in difficult circumstances. In this episode, we explore: Why midlife isn't a crisis—it's a catalyst for transformation. The surprising "backpack" of hidden workplace stressors many women carry. How to see relationship challenges from the other person's perspective—and why that shift can be the key to reconnection. How the line between work and life isn't just blurred, it's irrevocably intertwined. The many forms of loss, including the natural but profound grief that comes when children leave the nest, and how to navigate it in a healthy way. The role of emotional intelligence in moving through divorce, co-parenting, step-parenting, and workplace stress. How to identify the gap between where you are and where you want to be in work and life—and start closing it. The single daily practice Heather recommends to clear emotional clutter and start your day with intention. Whether you're in midlife yourself, navigating a major change, or simply looking for tools to approach life and work with more resilience, this episode will encourage you to reframe your challenges, embrace your agency, and see this moment in your life as a launching pad—not a limitation.   Guest Links 🔗 Connect with Heather: Website: www.HeatherHetchlerCoaching.com Instagram: @reframingrelationships Email: heather@learning2step.com Register for The Women-First Financial Kickstart Live Webinar (it's FREE!)   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

What happens when your perfectly planned vacation gets turned upside down? In this episode, I share the story of my three‑week trip to Lakeside, Ohio — a place that usually brings me peace, clarity, and joy — and how this time, everything went differently than expected. From juggling three generations under one roof to two unexpected hospitalizations, the trip became a real‑time lesson in flexibility, leadership, and the power of letting go. I explore why expectations can set us up for disappointment, in life and business,  and what it means to focus instead on the essence of what we want. If you've ever had a plan fall apart (and let's be honest, who hasn't?), this episode will help you reframe, refocus, and find the joy in what's still possible. In this episode, I talk about: The difference between expectations and intentions How rigid plans break under pressure What it looks like to "salvage the wins" Why joy often lives in the in-between moments How to lead through disruption with flexibility and grace   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

When you think about hiring, you might focus on résumés, skill sets, and experience. But here's the truth I've learned over years of building teams: the people you hire are your brand. In this episode of Brand for Good, I'm sharing my best tips for hiring people who will not only do the job but also strengthen your reputation, culture, and long-term growth. We'll talk about why skills aren't enough, the one question I always ask before making a hire, and how the wrong person can cost you far more than their salary. Whether you're bringing on your first contractor or expanding a leadership team, these strategies will help you hire for alignment, trust, and impact—so you can grow your business with confidence. In this episode, you'll learn: Why you should write the job description for the business you're building, not the one you have now. The difference between hiring for skill vs. hiring for alignment—and why it matters more than you think. How to evaluate trust and cultural fit before making an offer. The role your team can play in making better hiring decisions. How a trial period can save you from costly mistakes. If you want to grow your business and protect your brand at the same time, this episode is your hiring playbook.   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

In this special episode of Brand for Good, I'm turning the mic over to two very bright voices—our summer interns, Arielle Teppert and Alyssa Kilpatrick. Over the past two months, they've immersed themselves in the world of purpose-driven marketing at Prosper for Purpose, learning everything from social media strategy to brand messaging to how AI fits into the future of creative work. In their own words, they share what it's like to intern at a purpose-driven agency, what surprised them most about working in a real-world setting, and how hands-on experience has shaped their views on balance, branding, and being bold. You'll hear their honest takes on AI, creative confidence, and the difference between schoolwork and soul work. Whether you're a student trying to break into the field or a business owner considering bringing on interns, this episode is packed with insights, heart, and fresh perspective. 💡 In this episode, Arielle and Alyssa explore: What it's really like to intern at a purpose-driven agency The mindset shift from classroom assignments to client work Why AI is a tool—not a threat—and how they're learning to use it wisely The evolving concept of work-life integration How Gen Z approaches marketing with both strategy and soul Their favorite projects and biggest lessons from the summer Honest advice for students, interns, and brands alike 🧠 One of my favorite moments: "When you're working in the real world with companies that want to make a difference, it truly shapes how you attack your work. It's real-world experience, but it's also purpose-driven experience." Guest Host Links Arielle Teppert Alyssa Kilpatrick 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

Most people think visibility is the key to growing their brand. But here's the truth I've learned—and what I unpack in this episode: Visibility gets you seen. Credibility gets you sales. And they are not the same thing. In this solo episode of Brand for Good, I'm diving deep into what I call the currency of credibility—the invisible authority that makes your audience lean in, trust you, and choose you (even before you pitch them). Whether you're a coach, consultant, creative, or nonprofit leader, this episode will help you understand: The difference between visibility and authority (and why so many get stuck in the wrong one) The five credibility markers that build trust without relying on press or performance Why overexplaining kills conversions—and what to do instead How to make your brand pre-sell your expertise before you ever show up If you've been creating content, showing up online, and still wondering why the trust isn't translating into sales—this is your episode. 🎧 Listen now to learn: How credibility is built through positioning, not performance The mistake most founders make when trying to establish authority Real, simple ways to elevate your thought leadership without chasing vanity metrics 🔗 Resources Mentioned: ✅ Peerless & Profitable Free Training – Learn how to build a personal brand that leads, converts, and lasts. If this episode sparked something in you, will you do me a favor? Leave a review, share it with a colleague, or post a takeaway on LinkedIn. Your support means everything—and it helps more people discover Brand for Good.   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

If you're an entrepreneur or small business owner, here's the truth: you will never grow without taking risks. And I'm not talking about reckless gambles—I'm talking about calculated, courageous leaps. In this episode, I'm sharing the four types of risk that show up at every level of business and how some of the most successful entrepreneurs, from Sara Blakely to Rihanna, made bold moves in the face of uncertainty. You'll also learn about some of the risks I took in my journey—and why I believe the best bet you'll ever make is on yourself. Whether you're debating a pivot, preparing to launch something new, or just navigating fear in your next big decision, this is your reminder that courage doesn't require certainty. It requires commitment. In this episode, I cover: Why risk is required for brand and business growth The 4 categories of risk every entrepreneur faces: financial, reputational, emotional, and strategic Real-life examples from Sara Blakely, Howard Schultz, and Rihanna How to evaluate risk and move forward, even when you're scared A personal story of risk in my own business journey A powerful mindset shift to carry into your next leap Words I Live By: "Courage isn't the absence of fear. It's the willingness to move forward with it in the passenger seat."   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