The Guiding Brands Podcast

Why emotional marketing—and authentic storytelling—bring donors and customers back, again and again.In this value-packed episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast, host Karen Vick sits down with marketing leader Adam Ortman to reveal what truly makes your marketing, messaging, and fundraising campaigns unforgettable. Are you struggling to stand out amid the year-end rush or Giving Tuesday? Wondering how to build deeper connections and keep supporters coming back? Get ready for a practical, human-centric blueprint that’s tailor-made for service-based small businesses and nonprofits.Join us to:Learn how to craft messages that resonate and inspire actionGain donor retention strategies that actually workExplore cost-effective ad tools (including step-by-step advice for beginners!)Discover easy, real-world ideas for showing appreciation and building communityHear why listening to your customers is the #1 growth strategy most organizations ignoreSmall business owners, nonprofit leaders, and marketers—if you want marketing that’s mission-driven and heartfelt, you’ll find the advice and inspiration you need right here.#emotionalmarketing #storytelling #nonprofitmarketing #smallbusinessmarketing #donorretention #marketingstrategy #GivingTuesday #digitalmarketing #brandconnection

In this episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast, Chief Guide Karen Vick welcomes Adam Ortman — consumer psychologist, CEO, and founder of Kinetic 319 Marketing, a Denver-based marketing and advertising agency rooted in consumer psychology. Adam shares his insights on leveraging psychological principles for more effective nonprofit marketing and fundraising, drawing from his experiences with clients ranging from big names like Nike, American Express, and the American Red Cross, to small and midsize nonprofits.Key points discussed in this episode: What is consumer psychology, and how does it influence purchasing, donating, and brand interaction?  Why people give: The personal, emotional, and empathetic drivers behind donations of time, money, and support.  The critical role of empathy—how people want to see themselves reflected in the causes they support.  Common nonprofit marketing mistakes, including the “projection fallacy” (assuming decision-makers’ preferences reflect the wider audience) and “compassion fade” (how big numbers can actually decrease giving).  The four pillars of trust: Authenticity, Empathy, Relevancy, and Consistency—for nonprofit and small business marketing alike.  Practical steps for small businesses and nonprofits to discover what their audience actually cares about—through surveys, feedback, and focus groups.  Harnessing the power of AI tools (like ChatGPT) to easily craft effective surveys and question prompts.Resources mentioned in the episode:Kinetic 319 Marketing: https://kinetic319.com/American Red Cross: https://www.redcross.org/Google Forms (for easy customer/donor surveys): https://www.google.com/forms/about/Microsoft Forms: https://forms.microsoft.com/ChatGPT (for writing survey/interview questions): https://chat.openai.com/Next steps & actions for listeners: Ask your customers or donors what matters to them! Whether you use a formal survey, a quick email, or a simple conversation—dig deeper for specifics and look for patterns in their feedback.  Chunk your goals into achievable milestones. When fundraising, share the big vision but highlight the realistic steps donors can help achieve.  Focus your communication: Be authentic, empathetic, relevant, and consistent to build trust and stronger relationships.  Don’t be afraid to leverage technology! Use AI tools to help you shape targeted questions and streamline outreach.Subscribe for future episodes and more marketing and branding insight for service-based small businesses and nonprofits! The Guiding Brands Podcast: https://guidingbrandspodcast.comLeave a review & share this episode with a fellow nonprofit or small business owner who’d benefit from a bit of marketing psychology!

In this motivating episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast, Chief Guide Karen Vick welcomes Christine Blosdale: podcast strategist, media coach, and author of Podcastonomics. Christine shares practical tips for starting a podcast as a powerful marketing tool for small businesses and personal brands. They dive deep into how to land guest spots on meaningful podcasts—even without a big budget.  Why podcasting is a superpower for brands:Break down barriers to reach audiences worldwideBuild expert authority, credibility, and visibility“If you’re not seen and heard, you’re not hired.” – Christine How to get started with your own podcast:Collaborate with an experienced podcaster or coach for guidanceInvest in quality tools, especially a good microphone Learn the basics: cover art, podcast name, editing, and publishingOvercome “imposter syndrome” and simply start DIY Podcasting Tips:Christine’s book Podcastonomics, walks you through every stepDon’t skimp on sound qualityUse simple, affordable editing toolsMarket your show once it’s live—creation is only the beginning! Becoming a guest on podcasts:Build a strong media kit that showcases your expertise & suggested topicsPersonalize your outreach—listen to the show and reference it when contacting the hostUse platforms like PodMatch, PodPitch, and Matchmaker.fm to connectPractice your speaking skills (video, Toastmasters, etc.) so you shine on airLeverage social media, networking groups, and personal connections Monetizing & Marketing Your Podcast:Cleverly promote your own products/services in your podcast ad breaksSeek sponsors among your own network or local businessesUse podcast analytics and lead magnets (like quizzes!) to measure results and grow your email list Podcastonomics: Unlocking the Secrets of Profitable Podcasting for Beginners by Christine Blasdale⁠— http://bit.ly/42SZWZc Christine’s Website & Discovery Calls:⁠— https://expertauthoritycoach.com Take Christine’s Expert Authority Quiz⁠— https://expertauthorityquiz.com Podcast Guesting Platforms:⁠— https://podmatch.com⁠— https://podpitch.com⁠— https://matchmaker.fm The Guiding Brands Podcast:⁠— https://guidingbrandspodcast.comStart your podcast now: Don’t wait for perfection or a big budget—use what you have and learn as you go.Get booked as a guest: Build a compelling media kit and start reaching out authentically.Practice your speaking: Create short videos, rehearse conversations, and join speaking groups—your confidence will grow.Market smart: Promote your own services and use analytics/lead magnets to track success and build relationships.Connect with Christine: Book a free discovery call & take her expert authority quiz to find out where you stand.“Get seen, get heard, and get hired!” Don’t forget to subscribe to The Guiding Brands Podcast and leave a review. See you next week!Key points to note from the Conversation:Tools and Resources To Help You on Your Podcasting JourneyKey Actions & Next Steps:

Welcome to a new season of The Guiding Brands Podcast! Chief Guide Karen Vick is joined by Christine, a branding and authority coach known for her dynamic personality, 25+ years in media, and expertise in broadcasting and business growth. Christine shares how she helps women entrepreneurs worldwide find their voice, define their brand, and shine as thought leaders—whether through podcasts, websites, or personal branding.Key Discussion Points Christine’s JourneyBroadcasting background: radio in Los Angeles, writing for America Online & MSNShifted focus to supporting women entrepreneurs, especially coaches, solopreneurs, and thought leadersRealized the importance of giving clients what they need—not just what she wants to offer (e.g., expanding beyond only podcast creation services) The Power of PodcastingPodcasting as a key visibility tool—but not the only oneImportance of aligning your brand and message with your audience’s real needsPodcast guesting: a powerful way to build searchability, authority, and reach new audiences, even if you don’t start your own showPodcast content can be strategically repurposed into books, blogs, and courses Branding Tips for EntrepreneursYOU are the brand: Authenticity and relatability matter mostDon’t strive for perfection—taking action and learning from mistakes leads to masteryEmbrace failure as a natural part of the growth process Podcast Format & ApproachVariety works: from micro-podcasts (5 min) to traditional interviewsShort attention spans make bite-sized episodes highly effectiveSeries or seasonal formats are valid—your show doesn’t have to last forever!Resources MentionedChristine’s podcasts (including "The Micro Podcast on Podcasting")The value of email, social media, and blogging—but how podcasting can help you stand outExample of "It’s Time to Pray" (1-minute daily podcast Karen listens to)Connect with Christinehttp://www.expertauthoritycoach.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christine-blosdale-579697168/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/christineblosdale/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChristineBlosdalePodcasts: https://www.christineblosdale.com/mypodcastsConnect with The Guiding Brands Podcast https://guidingbrandspodcast.comNext Steps / Actions Suggested For Listeners:Consider guesting on podcasts in your industry before committing to hosting your ownExperiment with micro-episodes if you’re intimidated by long-form contentShow up authentically, focus on bringing value—not just sellingRepurpose your podcast content for books, blogs, or coursesDon’t wait for perfection—start, learn, and grow as you go! For Potential Podcasters:Remember, your podcast doesn’t have to be video or an hour long; audio-only and short formats are great optionsUse podcasts as a strategic networking tool to connect with others in your fieldThink of podcast episodes as assets—potential chapters in a future book or stand-alone pieces for marketingIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to the podcast and leave a review! Thank you for listening and see you next week! 

Episode Overview: In this enlightening episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast, Chief Guide Karen Vick is joined by Nicole Johnson, the multifaceted founder of Digital Made Simple. They dive into the fascinating world of knowledge commerce, exploring how entrepreneurs can monetize their expertise and create passive income by sharing what's 'between their ears.' Tune in to discover how you can transform your unique skills and experiences into valuable offerings for your audience. Key Points Discussed:Introduction to Knowledge Commerce:Understanding the concept of monetizing your knowledge and skills. Journey of Nicole Johnson:From chemical engineering to a digital marketing strategist, bringing a unique operational perspective to branding and design. Importance of Knowledge Commerce:Explored its potential to generate passive income and discussed its major forms such as online courses, podcasts, and masterminds. Marketing and Branding:Strategies to effectively market knowledge-based products, ensuring they are well-packaged and targeted to the right audience. Challenges and Opportunities:Common challenges entrepreneurs face in entering the knowledge commerce space and the opportunities presented by technology and AI. Resources Mentioned:Online Course Platforms:Udemy, Teachable, Skillshare for hosting online courses. Social Media for Promotion:Importance of social media in promoting and marketing your courses. Nicole Johnson's Special Offer:Done-for-you course outline template with a coaching session.  VisitDigital Made Simple - DFY CourseNext Steps:Connect with Nicole Johnson:YouTubeInstagramFacebookLinkedInMichelle’s Offer: Unlock potential in knowledge commerce with Nicole’s special $289 offer for a DFY course outline and coaching session! Limited time only. Action Items:If you're inspired to transform your knowledge into a digital product, reach out to Nicole for a comprehensive strategy session.Visit the website for more insights and grab the offer while it's available.Closing: If you find value in this episode, please subscribe, leave a comment, and share it with your network. Your support helps us continue bringing insightful conversations to the forefront of business development.  The Guiding Brands Podcast:guidingbrandspodcast.comThank you for listening! We look forward to guiding you in the next episode. 

In this insightful episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast, Chief Guide Karen Vick sits down with Damion Parsons, the Founder of Size Wise Closet Coach. They discuss the intersection of marketing, technology, and personal styling and how Damion's innovative approach is transforming how we think about our wardrobes. Guest: Damion Parsons Founder of Size Wise Closet Coach Creative Director and UX/UI Designer Holder of a Guinness World Record for the longest swing set in the world Key Points: Introduction to Damion's diverse background in design and fashion Damion's journey from working with large corporations to creating Size Wise Closet Coach The concept of "vanity sizing" and its impact on clothing fit How the Size Wise platform helps clients find the right fit and feel confident The unique angle of assisting professional businesswomen with their wardrobes Importance of understanding true measurements over vanity sizing Inspirational story about Damion’s grandmother and the roots of his passion for fit and style How Size Wise Closet Coach integrates technology and personalized coaching to improve client experiences Damion’s vision for a “suitcase-free travel experience” Resources Mentioned: Size Wise Closet Coach: sizewiseclosetcoach.com Size Wise Closet Coach on Instagram: @SizeWiseClosetCoach Size Wise Closet Coach on TikTok: @SizeWiseClosetCoach Size Wise Closet Coach on Facebook: SizeWiseClosetCoach Next Steps: Visit the Size Wise Closet Coach website to learn more about their services and sign up for a personalized closet consultation Explore the different packages offered by Size Wise Closet Coach, ranging from 15-minute quick consultations to more extensive wardrobe overhauls Engage with Size Wise Closet Coach on social media to stay updated on fashion tips and special offers Action Items for Listeners: Sign up for a consultation with Size Wise Closet Coach here Follow Size Wise Closet Coach on their social media handles listed above to get fashion inspiration and updates Share this episode with anyone who might benefit from personalized wardrobe advice Don't miss out on this episode, filled with valuable insights on personal branding through fashion and technology. Subscribe to The Guiding Brands Podcast and leave us a review! Follow The Guiding Brands Podcast: The Guiding Brands Podcast Thank you for tuning in! See you next week!

In today's episode of the Guiding Brands Podcast, Chief Guide Karen Vick sits down with Sherri, a seasoned content creator and writer. Sherri is the brilliant mind behind the podcast Mature Allure, where her mission is to remind everyone that age is not a limitation but a celebration of life's unique journeys. 🌟 🎧 Key Points Discussed: Introduction to Sherry Sherri's background in media, beauty, and content creation, and the inception of her podcast, Mature Allure. 📚✨ The Unique Positioning of Mature Allure Overcoming branding challenges and standing out in a niche market despite initial pushbacks. 🎨🚀 Guest Dynamics and Content Strategy Sherri's approach to selecting guests and the importance of covering diverse topics relevant to mature women. 🗣️🌍 Personal Journey and Professional Pivot Sherri’s transition from losing jobs to becoming a full-time podcaster, supported by her husband. 💼➡️🎤 Future Plans The exciting upcoming nonprofit, As We Age, focusing on mental health, addiction recovery, and financial freedom for midlife women. 🌱💪 🔗 Resources Mentioned: Mature Allure Podcast & Blog 🌐 Mature Allure 📌 Follow Sherri: 🌐 Mature Allure IG 🌐 ⁠Mature Allure X 📅 Next Steps & Suggestions: Karen suggests subscribing to Sherri's newsletter for updates and insights on living your best mature life. 📰📬 Sherri encourages listeners to explore passions and consider creating their own podcasts. 🎙️✨ Thank you for tuning in to this episode! Don't forget to subscribe to the Guiding Brands Podcast and leave a review. 🌟🔔 Subscribe & Follow: 🌀 The Guiding Brands Podcast Let’s continue guiding, inspiring, and branding together! 🌟

Welcome to the latest episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast! In this insightful episode, our dynamic host, Karen Vick, delves into a topic that transcends traditional business discussions. Joining us is the remarkable Dr. Maxine A. Roddock, affectionately known as Dr. Max, a licensed clinical psychologist renowned for her expertise in the mind-body connection and commitment to mental health. Today, we shift our focus from marketing strategies to the crucial realm of self-care and achieving balance—particularly for business owners who often neglect their well-being amidst their professional responsibilities. Dr. Max shares her wisdom, drawn from a rich tapestry of professional experience and personal ethos, guided by faith and a profound dedication to helping individuals cultivate fulfilling balanced lives. 👩‍⚕️ Guest: Dr. Maxine A. Roddock (Dr. Max) Licensed Clinical Psychologist 🇯🇲 Founder of Comprehensive Psychological and Assessment Services (CPAS) Advocate for mental health and mind-body connection Active community leader and faith-guided professional 🗝️ Key Points: Striving for Balance 🧘‍♀️: Dr. Max emphasizes the importance of balance in life and warns about the negative impact of prolonged imbalance. Self-Awareness and Check-ins 📝: Regular self-check-ins to understand emotions and identify joy as a crucial component for maintaining balance. Self-Care Analogies 🌱: Neglecting oneself is likened to neglecting valued things, highlighting the need for personal care. Emotional Markers ❤️: Daily moments of joy are indicators of balance; the absence of joy signals imbalance. Financial and Emotional Balance 💸: Balance helps avoid neglecting important areas like finances by preventing excessive indulgence. Biblical Roots of Self-Care 📖: Self-care and rest are rooted in biblical principles and not just secular ideas. Social Media Stress 📱: The constant engagement demanded by social media can disrupt self-care and balance. Strategies for Business Owners 🏢: Tailored advice for business owners to maintain personal well-being amidst demanding schedules. Balance Course 📚: Dr. Max offers a 16-week course focusing on holistic balance, launching early next year. 📌 Resources Mentioned: Contact Dr. Maxine A. Roddock 📧 Email: M.Ruddock@drmaxineruddock.com 📸 Instagram: @designyourmaxlife 16-Week Balance Course : Combines humor with comprehensive strategies for balancing finances, emotions, physical health, and spirituality. 🔄 Next Steps/Actions: Self-Assessment 🔍: Start with an honest assessment of your self-care practices and daily schedule. Small Changes ➡️: Implement small, easily manageable changes to build confidence before tackling bigger challenges. Protect Boundaries 🚧: Practice saying "no" to better establish and protect personal and professional boundaries. Simple Self-Care Acts 🌸: Incorporate simple acts like napping, walking, gardening, or listening to enriching podcasts as natural stress relievers. Join the Course 📝: Consider enrolling in Dr. Max's 16-week course to gain comprehensive strategies on achieving balance. 🎙️ Subscribe and Review:Don't forget to subscribe to The Guiding Brands Podcast and leave a review! Your feedback helps us bring more insightful content to help guide your brand's journey. ✨ Until next time, stay balanced and take care of yourself! You can follow The Guiding Brands Podcast for more episodes at:⁠https://guidingbrandspodcast.com

In this episode of the Guiding Brands Podcast, host Karen Vick is joined by SEO expert Brandie Erisman to discuss local search engine optimization and digital marketing strategies for small businesses. Karen and Brandie talk about what SEO and Google Business Profile are and share Google Business Profile best practices, the importance of maintaining an active online presence, and how effective SEO strategies can significantly improve your local visibility. Brandie, an experienced SEO professional with a background in journalism, shares valuable insights and practical tips for small businesses looking to leverage Google’s tools to attract more local customers. She emphasizes the significance of providing accurate business information and engaging with customer reviews. This episode offers actionable insights to enhance your online presence and drive more traffic to your business. Whether you own a bakery, restaurant, or plumbing service, this discussion provides invaluable advice on navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape. Tune in to learn how to optimize your business profile, stay ahead of SEO trends, and ensure your business stands out in local search results. Key Takeaways: SEO Fundamentals: Understanding what SEO is and how it can benefit your business. Google Business Profile: Why it's crucial and how to optimize it for better visibility. User Engagement: The importance of responding to reviews and keeping your business profile updated. Common Mistakes: Pitfalls to avoid in your SEO strategy Real-World Examples: Success stories that showcase the impact of a well-managed profile. Brandie also discusses the significance of professional management for small business owners who may lack the time or expertise to manage their online profiles effectively. With the right strategies and tools, your business can achieve a visible and credible online presence, essential for thriving in today’s competitive market. #LocalSEO #SmallBusinessMarketing #GoogleBusinessProfile #DigitalMarketing #SEOtips Check out the links below for more resources and to connect with Brandie Erisman: Email: BerisSEO@gmail.com LinkedIn: Brandie Erisman on LinkedIn Subscribe to The Guiding Brands Podcast for more expert advice and marketing insights tailored for small businesses!

In this insightful episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast, your host Karen Vick sits down with Jerry Martinez to discuss the fast-evolving landscape of OTT advertising and how small to medium businesses can leverage it to stay relevant and competitive. With over 11 years of experience in TV, OTT, and digital advertising, Jerry shares invaluable tips and stories. Adaptability in Marketing 🌀: Importance of integrating new ways to consume information for staying relevant. Advice for Small Brands 📈: Tips on starting marketing efforts and the benefits of partnering with experts. Expanding Clientele 🌍: Jerry’s company based in South Florida also handles campaigns across other states, like Ohio. Customer Feedback 💬: How paying close attention to customer reviews can shape marketing strategies. Learning and Collaboration 🧠: Karen shows her interest in OTT advertising and expresses a willingness to collaborate. Contact Information 📞: Details provided for reaching Sunray Media. Promotional Closing 🎉: Encouragement to subscribe and review the podcast. Sunray Media Consultants 🌞: Sunray Media Website Jerry Martinez's Instagram 📲: Instagram Profile Jerry's Contact 📱: Available on Sunray Media’s website. For Businesses 💼: Start incorporating OTT into your marketing strategy with a focus on targeting and retargeting. Contact 🤝: Look into partnerships with marketing consultants like Jerry for expertise and better scaling. Educate Your Team 🎓: Regular training sessions to keep staff informed and aligned with marketing strategies. Customer Interaction 📞: Ensure your business can handle queries and calls efficiently to capture every opportunity. 🔔 Subscribe and Leave a Review: Help us grow the Guiding Brands community by subscribing and leaving your valuable feedback! Visit us at: 🌐 The Guiding Brands Podcast Key Points Covered:Resources Mentioned:Next Steps/Actions:

Join Karen Vick on The Guiding Brands Podcast as she chats with Karima Williams, a Wix expert and Dream Worth and Company founder. Discover how Karima streamlined website design to boost client lead generation and shares insights on navigation, branding, and SEO for small businesses. Episode Highlights: Karima’s Journey From managing large WordPress sites to mastering Wix for its simplicity and functionality. 🌐 Web Design Tips Streamlined navigation and clear branding are essential. 🚪 Highlighting expertise to build trust and improve SEO. 👩‍💼 Challenges & Solutions Issues with WordPress plugins and updates. 🔄 Benefits of Wix: drag-and-drop, built-in tools, and support. 🛠️ Case studies showing significant revenue increases with redesigned websites. 💸 Practical Advice: Use Wix tools for invoicing, quotations, and proposals. 🧾 Plan a site map to ensure clear structure before building. 🗺️ Utilize email marketing via Wix to re-engage clients. 📧 Resources Mentioned: Karima Williams' Website and Social Media Website: ⁠dreamworth.co Instagram: ⁠@dreamworth_co 🎁 Special Offer 25% off Wix templates with code "BRANDS2024." 🎁 Next Steps: Start planning holiday sales with your design team now. 🎄 Regularly update website content for better SEO. 🔄 Analyze website traffic with Wix’s tools to optimize pages. 📈 Connect and Subscribe: Subscribe to the podcast and leave reviews or suggestions for future content. 💬 Links: The Guiding Brands Podcast: ⁠ guidingbrands.com/podcast

In this episode, Host Karen Vick sits down with Wilson Zehr, the "professor of direct mail" and founder of Cendix/ZairMail, to discuss the enduring impact of direct mail marketing in today’s digital world. Dive into strategies, tools, and real-life examples that can help you elevate your marketing game with direct mail. Key Points Covered In This Episode: Promotion of Tools:   - ZairMail: Recommended for fast, easy, and reliable direct mail services.   - Speedy app: Ideal for sending individual letters conveniently via desktop. Strategic Marketing Model:   - Importance of understanding and positioning products 🎯 before marketing.   - Four Key Components: Product Understanding 📚, Target Audience 👥, Pricing 💲, Channels, and Placement 📍.   - Role of Promotion in creating awareness and supporting channel activities 📢. Advice for Small Businesses:   - Importance of effective product positioning and selecting the right promotional tools for budget optimization.   - Targeting precise audiences to maximize marketing impact 🎯. Real Estate Mail Campaigns & Personalization:   - Use personalized postcards to increase client engagement, similar to a chimney sweep’s successful tactic with pet images 📸.   - Realtors often send multiple, personalized mailers to stay top-of-mind with potential clients 🏡. Integration of Digital and Direct Mail:   - Omnichannel marketing strategies that combine various tools, like direct mail and digital platforms, to target customers at multiple points 📧 + 📬. Case Study: School Bond Measure Campaign:   - Comprehensive campaign strategy which resulted in significant victories by utilizing a mix of digital tools with strategic direct mail ✉️🏫. Unique Advantages of Direct Mail:   - Precise targeting capabilities and tangible customer reach.   - Direct mail’s high ROI potential, offering over $13 for every $1 spent if done correctly 💵. Connect with Wilson Zehr on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wilsonzehr/   - Email: wilson@zairmail.com 📧   - Phone: 1.888.898.0066 ☎️ Next Steps and Actions: - Manage your marketing budget with the ⁠Stingray Budget Planner⁠: A tool to simplify budget creation, track expenses, and provide visual performance monitoring.  - Small Business Owners: Leverage automated direct mail services for timely promotions. Consider tools like ZairMail and Speedy for efficient marketing. - Marketing Professionals: Integrate direct mail with digital campaigns for a comprehensive marketing strategy. - Stay Connected: Subscribe to The Guiding Brands Podcast and leave a review to keep updated with the latest marketing insights. Listen to the full episode on your favorite podcast platform 🎧 or visit https://guidingbrandspodcast.com 🌐.  Catch you next time!

Chief Guide Karen Vick sits down with YouTube strategist and video editor Catara Lane in this video episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast. Catara is the founder of CLX Content and shares valuable insights on utilizing YouTube for small business marketing. Join this enriching conversation where we delve into optimizing your YouTube channel, the importance of consistency, and leveraging tools to enhance your video content strategy. 📧 For inquiries about Catara’s program or YouTube-related questions, cataral@clxcontent.com ✨ Key Points Discussed: - 🌟 Importance of YouTube for small business marketing and building customer trust. - 🔍 Optimizing YouTube channels using SEO techniques: keywords, tags, titles, thumbnails, descriptions, and bios. - 📊 Tracking essential YouTube metrics: click-through rate, retention, and end screen clicks. - ⭐ The role of a YouTube strategist in achieving business goals like lead generation and SEO. - 🛠️ Helpful tools: vidIQ, TubeBuddy, Canva, and FG Funnels for YouTube marketing. - 📹 Commitment to consistent posting and the time frame to see growth (6 months to a year). - 💡 Using sit-down talking head videos for building a brand and driving sales. - 💬 Encouraging action from viewers with clear call-to-actions and easy-to-access links. 🔗 Useful Links and Resources: - vidIQ: ⁠https://vidiq.com⁠ - TubeBuddy: ⁠https://tubebuddy.com⁠ - Canva: ⁠https://canva.com⁠ - FG Funnels: ⁠https://fgfunnels.com⁠ 📲 Follow Catara Lane at: - YouTube: ⁠https://youtube.com/Cataralane⁠ - Instagram: ⁠https://instagram.com/clxcontent⁠ - Website: ⁠https://www.clxcontent.com⁠ 👍 Next Steps: - Subscribe to The Guiding Brands Podcast and leave a review! 📈 - Visit Catara's YouTube channel for expert business advice and content creation tips. 🎥 - Explore Catara’s membership program for digital product creation, YouTube strategy, and monthly content updates. 🌐 🎙️ The Guiding Brands Podcast: ⁠https://guidingbrands.com/podcast⁠

🎙️In this episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast, host Karen Vick chats with Leandra Nisbet, the founder of Stingray Advisory Group. Leandra shares her expertise in marketing budgeting, helping small business owners make informed decisions to grow their businesses. Key Points: - 💡 Introducing the Stingray Budget Planner: Leandra introduces the Stingray Advisory Group Budget Planner 📝, a tool designed to help small businesses track marketing spending and make informed decisions. - 💲Importance of Budgeting: Karen and Leandra discuss the significance of having a marketing budget to make strategic decisions and avoid reactive, fear-based actions. - 📈 Return on Investment: Leandra encourages a mix of organic and paid marketing options and highlights the importance of understanding ROI to achieve specific results. - 📆 Annual Budgeting: Create an annual budget using historical data to set realistic goals and make informed marketing investments. - ⌛ Lead Conversion Times: Insights on varying conversion times for B2C vs. service-based businesses, stressing the importance of patience and consistency. - 🔍 Market Research: Utilize industry standards and benchmarks for strategic budget planning. - 🔢 Relationship with Numbers: Leandra suggests small steps, like checking the bank account weekly, to build comfort with numbers and analytics. Resources Mentioned: - 🛠️ Stingray Budget Planner: A tool to simplify budget creation, track expenses, and provide visual performance monitoring. - 💻 Stingray Advisory Group: - Website: https://stingrayadvisorygroup.com - Instagram: ⁠@stingrayadvisorygroup⁠ - LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/stingray-advisory-group - Facebook: https://facebook.com/stingrayadvisorygroup Actions & Next Steps: - Start Small: Leandra advises taking small, manageable steps to overcome obstacles and make progress. Incorporate tasks like checking financial statements weekly to build confidence. - 💼 Utilize the Budget Planner: Take advantage of the helpful marketing budget planner tool offered by Stingray Advisory Group for a nominal fee, as detailed in the show notes. - 📜 Stay Informed: Karen reminds listeners to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and stay tuned for more episodes packed with valuable insights for service-based small businesses. Don’t forget to: - 🔔 Subscribe to The Guiding Brands Podcast: ⁠guidingbrandspodcast.com - 💬 Leave a review: Your feedback helps us improve and provide you with more valuable content! Guiding Brands is an affiliate of the Stingray Advisory Budget Planning tool. #TheGuidingBrandsPodcast #MarketingBudget #SmallBusinessGrowth #StingrayAdvisoryGroup #MarketingStrategy #ROI #TargetAudience 🌟

In this episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast, Chief Guide Karen Vick chats with talented photographer and entrepreneur David I. Muir, who is also a partner at Island Syndicate. They discuss how small businesses can leverage photography to tell compelling stories and make lasting impressions. In this episode, you will learn: The importance of image quality The significance of hiring experienced photographers Capturing authentic moments through lifestyle photography, Leveraging technology for better photography, organizing photos effectively Telling a story through personalized images Understanding the differences between print and digital image requirements Resources Mentioned: - **Island Syndicate** 🌐: Producing books, magazines, newsletters, and offering event photography. - **Pieces of Jamaica** 📚: A collection showcasing the spirit of Jamaica through stunning photography. Follow David I. Muir at: 🌐 [Island Syndicate](https://islandsyndicate.com/) 📸 [Instagram](https://instagram.com/davidimuir) 📚 [Pieces of Jamaica](https://piecesofjamaica.com/) 🎙️ The Guiding Brands Podcast: https://guidingbrandspodcast.com Follow Karen Vick and Guiding Brands at: https://guidingbrands.com https://linkedin.com/company/guidingbrands https://instagram.com/guidingbrands

🔊 Welcome to a riveting episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast! Host Karen Vick explores the world of brand messaging with Steven Sued, founder and creative mind behind Four Quarters, a powerhouse in the brand and design space. 🎨 Dive deep into the art and strategy of branding with these key takeaways: - Curiosity leads the charge in innovative marketing✨ - Tony Bands' clever targeting for the active older generation🏃‍♂️🌙 - Visual language and addressing consumer pain points are crucial👁️‍🗨️ - Embrace bold, retro styles and maximalist designs🎸🛹 - Storytelling and transparency triumph on social media📖💬 - AI assistants like GPT are transforming the creative sphere 🤖 - Small business branding strategies for measuring impact and success📊 - Steven's involvement in direct-to-consumer brands in fitness and tech🏓📱 - Consistency across platforms is the linchpin of brand communication🔗 🚀 After the chat, consider these action steps: - Reflect on your brand's unique message and its consistency. - Experiment with AI tools to enhance your creative processes. - Engage with your audience through authentic storytelling. 🎙️ Stay in tune with our guest: - Steven Sued's professional touch: https://fourquarters.agency/ 🎨 - Follow his personal journey: https://instagram.com/steven.suede 📸 - Connect with Steven: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevensued/ 🤝 📚 Resources shared by Karen and Steven: - Avenue of the Arts Festival (Aota Fest): Community involvement 🎉 - Tony Bands, the success story: Dynamic branding for the energetic elder 💪 🎧 Revisit this inspiring conversation: - Listen and learn with The Guiding Brands Podcast: https://www.guidingbrandspodcast.com/the-power-of-influence-how-your-reputation-shapes-your-brand/ 🎧 📌 And remember, branding is not just what you do; it's the story you tell. Until next time, keep guiding your brand to new heights with Karen Vick! 🚀

🎧 Join Karen Vick and Katie Armentrout for a deep dive into making sales work for your small business on this episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast. 🎙️ In this insightful episode, our Chief Guide, Karen Vick, sits down with the awesome Katie Armentrout, a seasoned expert with 20 years in leadership and customer service. 📈 Here are key timestamped takeaways from the conversation: - [00:02:14] Overcome business challenges with proactive networking & effective communication. 🤝 - [00:04:38] Redefine sales as business development for a positive mindset shift. 🔄 - [00:07:45] Conversations over selling—focus on problem-solving for clients. ✔️ - [00:11:30] Long-term strategy: Be patient with business follow-ups. 🏃‍♂️ - [00:14:52] Creative follow-ups and personalizing communication. 💡 - [00:18:07] The art of connection: Digital and in-person networking. 👥 - [00:21:59] The importance of targeting the right audience through trial and error. 🎯 - [00:25:33] Utilize your existing network for effective, low-cost business development. 💼 - [00:28:15] Strong relationships: the ultimate sales tool and understanding customer needs. 👭 - [00:31:47] How a positive company culture drives sales and customer service. 🌟 ✅ Find next steps/action items at these timestamps in the interview: - [00:35:21] Visit www.peoplefluence.com for more insights from Katie Armentrout. 📧 - [00:37:50] Engage with your network for referrals and opportunities. 🚀 - [00:40:04] Practice active listening to deeply understand client needs. 👂 - [00:43:16] Experiment with various engagement methods to discover what works best for your audience. 📝 - [00:46:58] Adopt Katie Armentrout’s advice on fostering a strong company culture. 🏅 👋 Connect with Katie Armentrout: - Visit her website: www.peoplefluence.com - Reach out via her on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiearmentrout/. 💻 👋 Connect with our host, Karen Vick: 👉 https://guidingbrands.com/ 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-vick/ 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guidingbrands Stay connected for more episodes designed to guide your brand to success. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and follow us on our social media channels for all the latest episodes and behind-the-scenes content! - http://www.guidingbrandspodcast.com 🎤 #SalesSecrets #SmallBusiness #Podcast #CustomerService #Leadership #Networking #BusinessDevelopment #GuidingBrandsPodcast

🎙️ Welcome back to The Guiding Brands Podcast! In this episode, Chief Guide Karen Vick sits down with the gifted Andrew McNeil, Executive Producer of AyanDace Studios, as they discuss the art of storytelling for brands and how this medium shapes customer connections and brand loyalty. 🎥📚 🔑 Key Points: - The power of storytelling in marketing and brand awareness 📈 - The embodiment of storytelling at Publix supermarket 🛒 - The art of video storytelling: solving problems and evoking emotions 😌 - Focusing on the audience to serve and connect with them ❤️ - Emphasizing the human element over automation and technology in brand narratives 🤖➡️🧑‍🤝‍🧑 - Strategies for effective video content and copywriting 📝 - The impact of storytelling on branding and establishing expertise 🏆 - Quality questions to uncover client stories 💬 👤 About our guest: Andrew McNeil is not only the creative force behind AyanDace Studios but also a master storyteller who knows how to connect people through visual tales. From his childhood passion for writing to his present cinematography prowess, Andrew's journey is one for the books - or, should we say, screens! 🎬 🌐 Follow Andrew McNeil: - Website: https://www.ayandacestudios.com - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ayandacestudios/ 📢 Actions and resources mentioned: - Subscribe and leave a review for The Guiding Brands Podcast 🌟 - Check out AyanDace for insights into company culture and storytelling 🏢💭 - Learn storytelling techniques for your own videos 🎞️ Actionable steps you can take to tell your story with video: - Understand your brand's story and how you'd like to tell it 🧐 - Consider new ways to weave emotion into your branding and marketing materials ✨ - Get inspired by the historical and modern use of storytelling 📖 Connect with our host, Karen Vick: 👉 https://guidingbrands.com/ 👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-vick/ 👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guidingbrands Thank you for tuning in to The Guiding Brands Podcast with your host, Karen Vick, and special guest, Andrew McNeil. Until next time, let your brand's story guide you to success! 👋🚀

In this episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast, host Karen Vick chats with Peter Mason, the Executive Director of the Tamarac North Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce in Tamarac and North Lauderdale, Florida. Join us as we explore how the local Chamber is an essential piece in your marketing toolkit - perfect for complementing your other marketing strategies. 🧰✨ 🔑 Episode Nuggets: - Peter Mason shares the Chamber's power in forging powerful local connections. 🤝 - The Chamber is not just a networking hub; it's much more - an investment that comes with mentoring and learning resources for businesses! 📈 - Remember, a mix of digital and face-to-face marketing methods is key for success. 💻🤗 🛠️ Action Items: - Search for a local Chamber meeting in your area; it's where the magic happens for your business. 🎩 - Leverage the Chamber's educational assets for your business's skill boost. 🚀 - Engage, engage, engage – in person and through social media! 🌐👋 - Learn more about Chambers of Commerce in the U.S. at U.S. Chamber of Commerce - https://www.uschamber.com/ 🔗 Get Connected: - The Guiding Brands Podcast: https://guidingbrands.com/podcast - Reach out to Karen: LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in-karen-vick Instagram: https://instagram.com/guidingbrands Website: htps://guidingbrands.com - Connect with Peter Mason: Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-mason-5b175267/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/tnlcoc Website: https://tnlcoc.org/ That's a wrap! Make sure you weave the local Chamber into your broader marketing weave for that complete, robust strategy. Subscribe for your next dose of brand guidance, and let's guide your brand to the mountaintop!⛰️🚵 #TheGuidingBrandsPodcast #Networking #ChamberOfCommerce #BusinessEducation #CommunityGrowth #SmallBusinessSupport #JoinTheChamber

In this episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast 🎙️, host and Chief Guide Karen Vick engages in a conversation with Certified Storybrand Guide Robert Mattox. Robert, the self-proclaimed "forever hope dealer," shares his insights and experiences surrounding marketing, the power of storytelling, and the impact of AI on businesses. He also delves into his work with the StoryBrand framework and highlights the transformational shifts experienced by his clients through their website makeovers. Follow Robert Mattox at: ⁠LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertmattox⁠ Website: https://foresightmarketing.ai⁠ Robert's Podcast: GPT and Me Resources mentioned: The Ultimate Website Template For Your Business: https://resources.businessmadesimple.com/the-ultimate-website-template-for-your-business Key points and takeaways: 🌟 Using the StoryBrand framework to transform a client's website for DEI consulting for churches and seminaries. 🌟 The significance of marketing: focusing on clients' success, adding value, and serving where clients are. 🌟 The potential role of AI in marketing and the impact of advanced language models on content creation. 🌟 Robert's journey as a marketer, the concept of being a hope dealer, and the transformative power of storytelling. Listen to the episode to learn more about the intersection of hope, marketing, and AI and gain valuable insights into transforming your business's online presence! And don't forget to subscribe, leave a review, and keep an eye out for the future conversations promised in this episode of The Guiding Brands Podcast 🎙️!