Listen Loudly

What does it take to go from a buttoned-up CPA to a bold, strategic business leader winning the world of financial services? Growth isn't just about numbers — it's about vision, adaptability, and the courage to take bold steps forward.   In this episode, we chat with Bart Davis, CEO and co-founder of 512Financial, about his journey and what it's like to be a first-time CEO, why speed matters more than perfection, and how fractional services are helping small businesses do more with less.   You'll discover:  Insider strategies for leveraging financial insights for business growth Navigating the challenges of becoming a first-time CEO Innovative approaches to outsourcing critical business functions The role of AI in modern financial services Practical advice for entrepreneurs and business leaders   Tune in and get inspired to rethink what financial leadership looks like.   Show Notes:  Bart Davis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bartdavis512/    512Financial: https://512financial.com/    Resources:  Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn    

As a business leader, you know the importance of building trust, credibility, and differentiation for your organization. But have you considered how developing your personal brand as a strategic business influencer can unlock new levels of impact and growth?  In this episode, we sit down with Paige Velasquez Budde, Partner & CEO at Zilker Media and an expert in helping executives and entrepreneurs amplify their thought leadership. Paige shares a transformative framework for recognizing your unique potential and aligning your personal and professional goals.  You'll discover: The common misconceptions that hold leaders back from personal branding (and why they're wrong) A step-by-step process for creating your "Influence ID" to build a mission-driven, authentic brand Practical tips for managing online presence and first impressions to accelerate trust How to leverage your expertise and experience to drive greater impact beyond your company Whether you're preparing for a business exit, looking to recruit top talent, or simply want to expand your reach, this episode will inspire you to embrace your role as a strategic business influencer. Get ready to unlock your full potential and take your leadership to new heights!   Show Notes: Paige Velasquez Budde LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paigevelasquez/   Influence ID - 5-step process for building an authentic, mission-driven brand   Brand Power Score - https://zilkermedia.com/brand-power-score-quiz/    Zilker Media - https://zilkermedia.com/ an Austin-based agency building people-driven brands   "The Strategic Business Influencer" - upcoming book by Paige Velasquez Budde    Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn 

This year has been a journey through inspiring conversations with industry leaders across banking, skincare, plant-based foods, and beyond. In this episode of the Listen Loudly Podcast, we look back to stories that reveal not just the strategies behind iconic brands but the human grit, passion, and innovation driving them forward. Whether you're scaling a startup or leading a team in a global organization, this episode will help you learn how leaders made their mark in the industries they're in.   Show Notes The ROI of Purpose: An Interview with Haley Rushing from The Purpose Institute  www.youtube.com/watch?v=UwzSb5UBqk0 Embracing a Challenger Spirit to Ignite Change: An Interview with Nicole Rex from Dell www.youtube.com/watch?v=rEBImDriXo0 Lean Into Growth: An Interview with Jason Bronstad www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Kf60sW6LJM The Evolving Leader: An Interview with Amy Gordinier from Skinfix www.youtube.com/watch?v=barMJOrurJA How to Scale a CPG Brand: An Interview with Rich Rodríguez-Mahé www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DsZgfAyBaw   Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn 

In this episode of Listen Loudly podcast, we dive deep into the intersection of creative and media in marketing with Ryan Pitylak, a seasoned digital marketer. Having worked with major brands like Fox, E-Trade, and Beachbody, Ryan shares: The critical role creative plays in driving ad performance. Why creative is now the key to targeting on platforms like Meta and TikTok. The distinction between demand creation and demand capture, and how to master both for brand success. How empathy and mission-driven strategies transform both businesses and lives. Why scaling creative production is essential for reaching broader audiences. Ryan also shares his personal journey, from running his agency to creating pathways for traders to succeed, emphasizing how value-driven products lead to sustainable growth. Don't miss these actionable insights to level up your marketing game!   Show Notes Ryan Pitylak LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanpitylak Unique Influence – A creative agency specializing in performance marketing, offering strategic campaigns that connect brands with their audience. Demand capture –  focuses on reaching and converting customers who are already actively interested in a product or service. It involves targeting high-intent audiences through precise media buying, personalized messaging, and strategic ads. Demand creation – focuses on generating awareness and interest in a product or service among audiences who may not yet know they need it. Through creative content, targeted campaigns, and strategic outreach. 72andSunny – A full-service creative agency known for campaigns that inspire action and drive results, blending traditional and digital media. Zynga – A leading mobile game developer, known for creating engaging, interactive games that drive large-scale user acquisition through demand capture strategies. Beachbody – A health and fitness brand that leverages campaigns with targeted digital marketing to build its loyal customer base. P90X – A fitness program by Beachbody. OTT (Over-the-Top) – A digital media service delivering content directly over the internet, capturing demand through on-demand viewing and creating new demand. Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn    

In this episode of Listen Loudly Podcast, we delve into the transformative power of mindfulness with our guest, Sherif. Discover how creating space between stimulus and response can unlock fulfillment and help you focus on what truly matters. Learn about daily mindfulness practices, from meditation to gratitude. Explore why mindfulness isn't just a trend but a business imperative. Hear how the "eulogy exercise" reshapes leadership priorities. Find out how to balance energy, work, and love without the overwhelm. Gain actionable tips to integrate mindfulness into your AM and PM routines. Sherif shares real-life insights, his unique professional journey from engineering to wellness, and practical steps for anyone eager to build mindfulness into their day—even if you're a busy executive. Whether you're a CEO or someone looking to lead a more balanced life, this conversation will inspire you to start your journey toward mindfulness and purpose. Show Notes Sherif Sakr LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherifsakr108/    Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn    

Dive into a powerful conversation on what it truly means to lead at the highest level. Our guest, a seasoned CEO coach, Joel Trammell, unpacks the often-overlooked mental models that distinguish successful CEOs from the rest. In this episode of Listen Loudly Podcast, we explore the critical shifts CEOs must make, moving beyond specialized expertise to adopt a holistic, goal-centric mindset. Key Insights Transitioning from functional expertise to a generalist CEO role The 3 mental models that transform organizational leadership Why conventional goal setting often fails CEOs and what to do instead The essential role of quarterly goals in maintaining agility and alignment How to engage teams and avoid common pitfalls in CEO-level goal setting Set goals that foster alignment and keep teams engaged, no matter the organization's size. Learn how seasoned CEOs leverage mental models and quarterly benchmarks to stay on track and lead with clarity.   Show Notes: Joel Trammell LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeltrammell/  People Model - one of the mental models that is described as adapting your leadership approach to effectively manage and engage people with diverse behavioral styles Sustainable Business Model - one of the mental models described as consistently providing value to three key stakeholders: customers, employees, and shareholders   Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn    

In this episode of Listen Loudly Podcast, we dive deep into how research can dramatically improve marketing outcomes, even on a tight timeline. From AB testing to rapid feedback loops, our guests, Ron Howard and Jordan Kraft, break down how data-driven insights can help brands fine-tune their messaging and make smarter decisions, faster. Key Takeaways: Learn why research doesn't have to be a colossal or time-consuming effort. Discover how quick, tactical studies can provide invaluable insights for optimizing your ads. Hear real-world examples, including a global crisis study completed in just 5 days. Explore how AI is transforming the speed and depth of marketing research today. Tune in to hear why your next campaign might just depend on pausing for research—and why it's faster and more affordable than you think!   Show Notes: Ron Howard - https://linkedin.com/in/ron-howard-4427ba3/ Jordan Kraft - https://linkedin.com/in/jkraft/   Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn 

In this episode of Listen Loudly, we dive deep into the biggest mistakes challenger brands make when scaling. Joined by seasoned CPG marketer Rich Rodríguez-Mahé, we explore why rushing to change or pivot can harm your brand more than help it. Learn from his 14-year journey at PepsiCo and discover the critical importance of consumer insights in shaping your strategy.   Key Takeaways: Learn why testing packaging and understanding consumer sentiment is essential before pivoting. Discover the insights Rich gained from working in both corporate and startup environments. Find out how AI and data are changing the role of today's CMO.   Show Notes: Ricky Rodríguez-Mahé https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardrodriguez/ https://instagram.com/richrod/   Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn    

Transformation isn't just a buzzword—it's a powerful force that can redefine the future of your brand. In this episode, we dive deep with industry leader Tricia Bouras as she shares her journey of driving transformation across major global brands like Calvin Klein, Hanes, and Wrangler. We explore the core elements of transformation: Vision: How to craft and crystallize a compelling vision that serves as the foundation for change. Consumer-Driven Strategy: How understanding market trends and consumer needs can lead to growth. Collaboration: Why building a vision together with your team leads to more successful transformations. Adapting to Change: Strategies for overcoming the fear of change and turning it into a positive force for innovation. With a wealth of experience leading brands through significant transformations, Tricia provides actionable insights for marketing leaders, executives, and entrepreneurs looking to navigate change effectively. Whether you're a startup, mid-cap, or an established enterprise, this conversation is filled with lessons that will empower you to create lasting impact.   Show Notes: Tricia Bouras LinkedIn  transformation - the process of making significant changes in a business's structure, strategy, or operations to improve performance and adapt to market demands. This can include repositioning a brand, entering new markets, or evolving products and services based on consumer feedback.   Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn    

In this episode of the Listen Loudly podcast, we dive deep into immersive experiences and explore how leadership and customer-driven ecosystems are shaping today's top brands. 🚀 Daz McColl shares insider stories from working with X Games and ESPN, including how they crafted a first-of-its-kind companion app that revolutionized fan engagement—boosting brand value and driving revenue through deeper viewer interaction. We also reflect on the resurgence of luxury retail and the strategic shift at Neiman Marcus, focusing on how digital storytelling helped reclaim their status post-bankruptcy. 📈 This episode is a masterclass in growth marketing—whether you're a leader looking to inspire your team or a brand ready to break conventions, you won't want to miss the transformative insights shared. 💡 Show Notes:   Darren "Daz" McColl - https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenmccoll/   Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn    

Burnout—it's a word that every high achiever dreads, but many of us face it head-on without a clear path to recovery. In this episode of the Listen Loudly podcast, Dr. Melanie, an expert brain coach, dives deep into the neuroscience of burnout and the flow state. Discover why many of us live in the "struggle phase," constantly battling distractions and overwhelm, and learn actionable strategies to move into flow and stay there. Key Takeaways: What burnout really looks like neurologically and why it happens. How your brain physically changes during burnout. Practical steps to design your workday around peak performance. The role of active recovery and why your brain needs more than just relaxation. Watch the full episode to discover: How to recognize the early signs of burnout and prevent it. Tips on entering and sustaining the flow state. What one small change can make a huge difference in your productivity and well-being. Join us for a conversation that could transform how you approach work and recovery.  Show Notes: Dr. Melanie McNally LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmcnally/  Understanding and Creating Flow by Dr Melanie McNally - https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/17E6V0wjuyseebxEhXUZYbqwjFG30J-JC4bv5zZGQ1o8/edit?usp=sharing  Psychology Today: How to Unlock Effortless Productivity and Creativity - https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/empower-your-mind/202311/how-to-unlock-effortless-productivity-and-creativity  Flow Cycle - it describes the different stages of optimal performance, from the initial challenge to the replenishment of mental resources.Active Recovery - involves some activity that actively promotes healing and rejuvenation – both mental and physical.   Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn    

In this episode of the Listen Loudly, we sit down with Liya Sharif Lancia, a dynamic leader whose career has spanned from professional ballet to VP of Marketing at Qualcomm, and now, the cutting-edge world of AI. Liya's journey is a testament to the power of curiosity, discipline, and the courage to step into the unknown.  We dive deep into the metaphor of jackhammers vs. hummingbirds—are you laser-focused, or do you embrace a life of exploration? Liya shares how her "hummingbird" approach has allowed her to cross-pollinate ideas across vastly different fields, creating a rich, fulfilling career.  Key Takeaways How to balance deep discipline with a thirst for knowledge and new experiences. The transition from corporate tech giant Qualcomm to launching a startup in AI-driven women's healthcare. Why taking a sabbatical can be the key to unlocking your next big career move. The role of curiosity in becoming a future-ready marketing leader. Insights on how AI will transform the marketing landscape and why creativity will remain a uniquely human trait. Show Notes: Liya Sharif Lancia LinkedIn    Liya Sharif Lancia Twitter/X    Qualcomm - an American multinational corporation headquartered in San Diego, California, and incorporated in Delaware. It creates semiconductors, software, and services related to wireless technology.    cercle.ai  -  an AI technology company delivering secure, data-driven biomedical and genomics healthcare insights for clinics, research labs, providers, and patients.   Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn    

In this episode of Listen Loudly, we sit down with Josh, an SEO expert, to dive deep into the often misunderstood world of SEO. We discuss the importance of slowing down and thinking about your search queries, the synergy between SEO and PPC, and how technical SEO elements can make or break your online presence. Discover why SEO is a critical component of marketing that can significantly impact your business's visibility and success. Learn about common SEO mistakes, the role of off-page SEO, and how AI is transforming the search landscape. Josh shares his passion for SEO and offers actionable insights on: Understanding what Google knows about you and your queries How to effectively use PPC data to boost your SEO strategy Common technical SEO pitfalls and how to avoid them The impact of hidden content on your SEO efforts The future of SEO in an AI-driven world Links Josh Loewen The Status Bureau     Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn 

Dive into an inspiring conversation with Stephanie as she shares her incredible journey from a digital novice to a leader in the ever-evolving world of social media. In this Listen Loudly episode, we discuss her early career challenges, the pivotal moments that shaped her path, and her insights on leadership and innovation in digital marketing.  Stephanie shares the importance of being an operator, how she led legacy brands into the digital age, and the crucial role of having a niche in your career. Whether you're a marketing executive or a budding social media strategist, this episode offers valuable lessons and inspiring stories. Don't miss out on these key takeaways: How to carve your niche in a competitive industry. Balancing traditional and digital media strategies. The impact of sports and discipline on leadership. Staying relevant and authentic in a fast-paced digital world. Show Notes: Stephanie Paige Miller   Legacy Brands - a brand with a long history and reputation   Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity - a global event for those working in creative communications, advertising, and related fields. It is considered the largest gathering of the advertising and creative communications industry.   Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn 

Discover the inspiring journey of Evan Harrison, CEO of Kiss The Ground, as he delves into the transformative power of regenerative agriculture. In this episode of Listen Loudly, Evan shares his expertise in storytelling, the impact of real-time feedback, and how Kiss The Ground is advancing soil health to combat climate change and improve wellness. Learn about the importance of aligning brand values, the role of data in optimizing outreach, and the unique challenges faced in promoting regenerative practices. Whether you're passionate about sustainable agriculture or looking to understand the intersection of media and environmental activism, this conversation is packed with valuable insights.   Show Notes: Kiss The Ground  Evan Harrison    Surfrider Foundation    Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn 

Have you ever wondered what sets an exceptional brand experience apart?  Unlock the magic behind top-tier brand experiences with Julie and Michelle from Household, the independent creative agency making waves in London, New York, and LA, and the creative masterminds behind some of the most immersive brand experiences. From redefining retail with the Harry Potter flagship store to innovative sustainable designs using coffee beans and pet hair, their journey to becoming a B Corp is nothing short of inspiring.  Dive into the nuances of brand experience versus experiential marketing and learn how Household turns customers into passionate fans through data-driven insights.  Ready to transform your brand? Watch now and discover how to create impactful, memorable experiences that resonate with your audience. 📈   Show Notes: Household  Michelle Du-Prât  Julie Oxberry     B-Corp Certification    Brand Experience - "Is how a customer or a guest or any human or visitors live and experience a brand, either with full emotion, full interaction, or full practicality." -Julie Oxberry    Superfan - "A band or a cohort of customers that are the most passionate advocates of a brand." -Michelle Du-Prât    Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn

Marketing should not be a cost center for your business—it should be a profit generator. If you're struggling to turn your marketing efforts into measurable growth, this episode is for you. Join us as we delve into the concept of shifting from accidental to intentional growth, transforming that pit-of-your-stomach anxiety into confident strategic planning.   Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn    

Dive into the world of paid media with expert Zach Cochran, together with Prentice and Bethany as they debunk common misconceptions and share actionable strategies for growth. Whether you're struggling to drive awareness or scale your customer acquisition, this episode is packed with insights to help you optimize your paid advertising efforts. Don't miss out on their insights and real-life success stories that can help you transform your marketing efforts. Connect with Zach Cochran LinkedIn Texas by Texas (TXT) ResourcesDoor No. 3 WebsiteDoor No. 3 LinkedInDoor No. 3 Instagram Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn 

Discover how Kraft Heinz and NotCo are breaking barriers in the plant-based food industry using advanced AI technology. In this episode, we dive into the journey of Perri Gordon and the innovative partnership that's making plant-based foods delicious and accessible for everyone—even carnivores! From AI-driven food development to disruptive marketing strategies, learn about the future of food and how these companies are setting new standards.   Connect with Perri Gordon LinkedIn   Links The Kraft Heinz and NotCo venture  NotCo Kraft Heinz   Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn  

In this episode of Listen Loudly podcast, we dive deep with marketing and sales expert, Wes Gay, on bridging the gap between these crucial business functions.    Discover how to: Eliminate confusion in your marketing and sales strategies Leverage storytelling to captivate your audience Identify the 'right words' to attract and convert leads Boost email marketing effectiveness with simple tweaks   Wes also shares a little bit of his personal journey with ADHD and how it has shaped his professional approach.    Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with actionable advice!   Connect with Wes Gay LinkedIn Instagram Website   Resources Door No. 3 Website Door No. 3 LinkedIn Door No. 3 Instagram   Listen to The Empowered Challenger Podcast with Prentice Howe Connect with Prentice Howe on LinkedIn Connect with Bethany Cranfield on LinkedIn