Workfluencer: Personal Branding, Authority & Content Strategy

Becoming a TEDx speaker isn’t about a single moment on stage.It’s about the process that comes before it. In this episode, Bobby McNeil walks through what it actually takes to become a TEDx speaker while working full-time. From deciding to apply, to shaping the idea, to confronting the emotional and time demands most people underestimate. Bobby shares lessons from his first TEDx experience alongside the parallel journey of writing his first book, Cracking the Code. Not as a playbook. As lived experience. What You'll Learn: What happens before you ever get on a TEDx stage How the TEDx process differs from corporate or conference speaking Why mindset and identity matter more than performance The real time and emotional cost of becoming a speaker What surprised him most about visibility at this level If you’ve ever thought about applying for a TEDx, or wondered what becoming a speaker actually requires beyond confidence and polish, this episode gives you a grounded look at the reality.  What You’ll Learn What it actually takes to become a TEDx speaker while working full-time The biggest differences between a TEDx talk and a normal keynote or panel How to shape one clear “idea worth sharing” (and cut what doesn’t fit) Why the TEDx prep process is so rigorous. And what to expect from coaching How to manage the time and emotional energy it takes to finish the process The most “unsexy” first step you can take today to get started  Resources Mentioned Listen to Bobby’s TEDx Talk - https://youtu.be/6FzE0_PeQZU?si=g7mw6yB4ZXtwsWLd Buy Cracking the Code - https://amzn.to/458j9au Connect With Us Connect with  Bobby - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bmcneil/  Connect with Rhona https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Want to turn your team into creators? Visit ⁠⁠⁠workfluencermedia.com⁠⁠⁠ to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent. TEDx speaker, how to become a TEDx speaker, becoming a TEDx speaker, TEDx application process, TEDx talk preparation, public speaking career, professional speaking, thought leadership, personal brand, career visibility, working full time and speaking, content creation while employed, career storytelling, speaking opportunities, first TEDx talk, Workfluencer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if you could build real industry authority, grow your network, and create long-term leverage — without a team, a budget, or paid promotion? In this episode, Benjamin Mena breaks down how he built a 600+ person virtual summit completely solo, while still running a full recruiting desk. You’ll hear how he designed summits that actually attract the right people, why keeping live access free increases trust and engagement, and how curating other experts helped him build influence without putting himself front and center. This conversation is a practical playbook for anyone who wants to use content to build community, credibility, and inbound opportunities — without burning out or overengineering the process. What You’ll Learn How to use a virtual summit to grow authority in your niche Why “no team” can actually be an advantage How free live events drive higher engagement The systems Benjamin uses to run summits solo How podcasts create warm relationships at scale When community monetization actually makes sense Resources Mentioned: Register for the FREE 2026 Sales & Recruiter Summit - https://bd-sales-recruiter-2026.heysummit.com/ Check out Benjamin's Podcast - https://www.eliterecruiterpodcast.com/ Connect with us Connect with Benjamin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminmena/ Connect with Rhona - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Want to turn your team into creators? Visit ⁠⁠workfluencermedia.com⁠⁠ to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent. workfluencer, virtual summit, virtual conference, online summit, community building, podcasting strategy, content marketing, audience growth, personal brand, thought leadership, creator economy, building community, podcast growth, authority building, event marketing, online events, no team business, solo creator, bootstrapped growth, recruiting industry, recruiter podcast, HR podcast, B2B podcast, professional creators Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most internal comms get ignored. Deleted emails. Skimmed Slack posts. Zero follow-through. HR Leader, Lia Seth flipped that script. In this episode, we break down how she used memes, creator instincts, and vulnerability to get 100% employee open enrollment completed 24 hours early. Yes. Really. She wasn’t thinking like HR. She was thinking like a content creator. We get tactical. We get honest. And we talk about when this approach works, and when it absolutely doesn’t. What You’ll Learn Why traditional internal comms fail How memes drive real behavior change at work The cadence Lia used to sustain attention How to explain complex benefits simply When not to use humor or memes How vulnerability builds trust internally Accessibility tips for creative comms Tools Lia actually uses to make memes CONNECT WITH US Connect with Lia - https://www.linkedin.com/in/liaseth/ Connect with Rhona - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Want to turn your team into creators? Visit ⁠workfluencermedia.com⁠ to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent. internal comms, internal communications, employee communication, workplace communication, HR communications, people ops, HR leadership, employee engagement, content strategy, creator mindset, content creators at work, corporate communication, internal messaging, change management, employee experience, modern HR, workplace culture, internal content strategy, communication at work, HR best practices, workfluencer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is CEO content building trust, or just embarrassing the brand? CEOs are posting more than ever. But not all visibility builds trust. In this Workfluencer Trend Report, Rhona breaks down a recent CNBC article questioning whether CEOs trying to be influencers is smart leadership or pure cringe. Using real examples of executive backlash, this episode explores why some CEO content backfires, why others work, and how trust has become the most important currency in the AI era. This isn’t about telling leaders to stop posting. It’s about understanding what audiences will not tolerate anymore. What You’ll Learn Why CEO personal branding is accelerating, not slowing down The common mistake behind “cringe” executive content The difference between authentic vs unfiltered posting Why trust signals matter more as AI-generated content explodes How companies are operationalizing executive content the right way Connect with Rhona LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Substack - https://workfluencer.substack.com/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@RhonaBPierce Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/rhonabpierce/ ------------------ If you’re a Founder or Executive figuring out this whole Founder-Led Marketing thing, I’ve got an invite-only newsletter where I go deeper on this stuff. Want in? Email me at hello@rhonapierce.com and I’ll add you to the list. ------------------- CEO content, CEO personal branding, executive content strategy, founder led marketing, leadership personal brand, CEO LinkedIn strategy, executive storytelling, CEO influencers, leadership trust, executive visibility, founder branding, thought leadership for CEOs, leadership communication, personal branding at work, Workfluencer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Candidates don’t decide to trust your company when they read a job post. They decide long before that. In this episode, recruitment advertising veteran Lance Christensen explains how employer content has quietly replaced job descriptions as the real trust signal in hiring. We dig into how candidates research companies in 2025, why Reddit and AI search amplify reputation gaps, and how content now functions as targeting, not just awareness. If your job posts sound good but your pipeline says otherwise, this conversation explains exactly why. What You’ll Learn Why job posts no longer drive candidate trust How employer content shapes decisions before someone applies What candidates actually research first Why content voids get filled with complaints How AI search changes employer brand risk Where TA and employer brand teams should start fixing trust RESOURCES MENTIONED: Get Lance's Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-monday-minute-7018683347497299968/ Get Rhona's Newsletter: https://link.rhonapierce.com/YZEviw CONNECT WITH US: Connect with Lance: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christensenlance/ Connect with Rhona: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Want to turn your team into creators? Visit workfluencermedia.com to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent. workfluencer, employer content, employer branding, recruitment marketing, candidate trust, talent acquisition, hiring strategy, employee generated content, recruiting content, recruitment advertising, EVP, employer reputation, hiring in 2026, content strategy for recruiting, employer brand trust, recruitment trends, talent marketing, employer brand content, candidate experience, hiring content strategy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most people go quiet during a career transition. Laci McKinney did the opposite. In this episode of the Workfluencer Podcast, Laci breaks down how she used content to make her transferable skills visible, pivot into organizational development, and earn three promotions in three years. We talk about documenting your learning in public, building a dual personal + professional brand, navigating imposter syndrome, and why content isn’t self-promotion. It’s career leverage. If you’re considering a pivot, growing influence while employed, or trying to connect content to real career outcomes, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn Why waiting to be “picked” is the fastest way to stall your career How documenting your learning builds credibility before you feel “ready” The dual-brand strategy that makes career pivots feel natural How to choose content topics you actually have permission to speak on A simple way to show your day-to-day work without oversharing How content translated into promotions, consulting, and podcast invites Why imposter syndrome never goes away. And why that’s normal What leaders get wrong about internal mobility and career development How organizations benefit when content is treated as development, not ego RESOURCES MENTIONED Laci's Website: https://www.lacimckinney.com/ Free Download - Are you AI replaceable or AI proof? Discover Your Strategic Positioning in the Age of AI and Get Your Personalized Action Plan. https://www.lacimckinney.com/aiassessment  Get Rhona's Newsletter - https://link.rhonapierce.com/YZEviw CONNECT WITH US Connect with Laci: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lacimckinney/ Connect with Rhona: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Want to turn your team into creators? Visit workfluencermedia.com to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent. workfluencer, career transition, career change, content creation, personal branding, career development, professional content creation, building a personal brand, career growth, thought leadership, career advancement, content strategy, career visibility, career reinvention, career storytelling, employee content creation, corporate content creator, career pivots, professional branding, workplace influence, creator economy at work Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Storytelling isn’t a “soft skill” anymore. It’s becoming a core business function. In this Workfluencer Trend Report, Rhona breaks down why companies are actively hiring for storytelling roles, not as PR rebrands, but as strategic hires tied to trust, hiring, and growth. From Google and Microsoft to Notion restructuring entire teams around narrative, this episode explains what’s actually driving the demand and why AI has accelerated it, not replaced it. If you work in employer branding, HR, internal comms, content, or you’ve been building an audience quietly on the side, this trend matters more than you think. What You’ll Learn Why “storyteller” job titles are exploding across tech and HR How shrinking media and AI content overload changed the rules What Notion’s storytelling team signals about the future of brand orgs Why trust is now the most valuable brand asset How employee-generated content connects employer and consumer branding Why storytelling roles aren’t limited to journalists How creators and HR professionals already have these skills What separates signal from noise in a content-saturated world Mentioned In This Episode Wall Street Journal article: https://www.wsj.com/articles/companies-are-desperately-seeking-storytellers-7b79f54e Want to turn your team into storytellers? Visit workfluencermedia.com to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that build trust with clients and candidates. storytelling jobs, corporate storytelling, employer branding, HR content, employee generated content, creator economy at work, brand trust, AI content, internal communications, Workfluencer podcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Writing a book isn’t just a creative goal. It’s a credibility move. In this episode of Workfluencer, bestselling author and leadership coach Hady Méndez breaks down the real process of turning lived experience into a book that builds professional authority. We go behind the scenes of writing Calladita No More. What stories made it in. What she intentionally left out. And how the act of writing forced clarity around voice, boundaries, and visibility at work. This conversation is for professionals who want to write a book without turning it into a personal overshare. And who want their ideas to translate into influence, not just attention. If you’re thinking about writing a book, this episode is for you. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How Hady turned lived experience into a bestselling book The behind-the-scenes process of shaping raw stories into a clear message What she chose to leave out — and why restraint matters in personal storytelling How writing the book forced her to confront her own visibility gaps The role confidence and boundaries played during the writing process How content, authorship, and voice reinforce professional authority Why not every story belongs online, even when it’s true How creators can use long-form work to build credibility without oversharing RESOURCES MENTIONED: Buy Calladita No More: https://www.calladitanomore.com Get Rhona's Newsletter: https://link.rhonapierce.com/YZEviw CONNECT WITH US: Connect with Hady: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hadymendez/ Connect with Rhona: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Want to turn your team into creators? Visit workfluencermedia.com to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent. how to write a book, writing a book, book writing process, becoming an author, professional authority, thought leadership, personal branding, content creation, career growth, speaking up at work, leadership development, women in leadership, creators at work, building credibility, writing nonfiction, storytelling for professionals, content strategy, career visibility, author journey, workfluencer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Posner didn’t just build a podcast — he built a revenue engine. With 475+ episodes and 1.8M downloads, his show drives the majority of his recruiting business and lands long-term, five-figure brand deals. In this episode, we break down how he did it: using his podcast as a Trojan horse for business development, building trust with sponsors, creating event content that brands actually care about, and designing systems that keep the show running even when life forces you to step back. We also get into the personal side — including how he navigated cancer while running a dual-revenue business and why controlling your narrative matters more than ever. What You’ll Learn How a podcast can quietly drive 60–70% of your business The difference between “content for fun” and a content business Why early barters beat chasing big sponsorships too early How to pitch brands without selling out your integrity The production systems that keep Adam 7–10 weeks ahead What sponsors actually want from creators How he kept his business growing during cancer treatment Listen If You’re Curious About Monetizing a podcast Landing brand deals Building authority through content Content systems + production workflows Balancing real life with a content-driven business RESOURCES MENTIONED Listen to the POZcast: https://www.thepozcast.com/ CONNECT WITH US Connect with Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamjposner/ Connect with Rhona: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Want to turn your team into creators? Visit workfluencermedia.com to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent. Adam Posner, podcast monetization, podcast growth, brand partnerships, creator business, content strategy, recruiting industry, business development, content systems, podcast sponsorships, creator economy, Workfluencer Podcast, revenue-driving podcast, personal brand growth, content workflows, event content, talent acquisition, HR tech creators Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bestselling author and workplace revolutionary Minda Harts joins Rhona Pierce to break down the ideas behind her new book, Talk to Me Nice. She explains why trust keeps collapsing inside modern workplaces, how her Seven Trust Languages help rebuild it, and what she learned while growing from bestselling author to emerging filmmaker. This conversation goes deep into trust, culture, storytelling, and what it really takes to challenge norms without burning bridges. If you’re a creator, a leader, or someone trying to rebuild trust at work, this conversation will hit. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Buy Talk To Me Nice: https://www.mindaharts.com/talktomenice Book Minda to Speak: https://www.mindaharts.com/speaking Get Rhona's Newsletter: https://link.rhonapierce.com/YZEviw CONNECT WITH US: Connect with Minda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindaharts/ Connect with Rhona: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Want to turn your team into creators? Visit workfluencermedia.com to learn how we help companies build video first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent. Don't forget to leave us a 5-star Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts  ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/workfluencer/id1740429498⁠ 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify  ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4R6bJ4JZpqOlFdYelWwsBr⁠ Minda Harts, workplace trust, Talk to Me Nice, trust languages, workfluencer, Workfluencer podcast, workplace culture, creator storytelling, writing books, creative process, burnout prevention, workplace equity, corporate trust, content creator journey, filmmaking, workplace communication, leadership trust Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Some people chase content creation outside of work. Others end up building influence inside the walls of their company. Shannon Ogborn is one of the first people in our space to do it at scale. In this episode, we get into the real story behind becoming a content creator for your employer — the trade-offs, the boundaries, and the benefits no one talks about. You’ll hear how Shannon went from Recruiting Ops to podcast host for Ashby, what it takes to show up authentically when you represent a brand, and how she measures success in a role that’s still new for most companies. We dig into: How she transitioned into a company-backed creator role What she thinks actually matters in podcast metrics How to stay authentic when your content reflects your employer Why companies are hiring creators internally What alignment between creator + company really takes RESOURCES MENTIONED Check out Shannon's Podcast: http://ashbyhq.com/podcast Get Rhona's Newsletter: https://link.rhonapierce.com/YZEviw CONNECT WITH US: Connect with Shannon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonogborn/ Connect with Rhona: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Want to turn your team into creators? Visit workfluencermedia.com to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent. Don't forget to leave us a 5-star Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts  ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/workfluencer/id1740429498⁠ 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify  ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4R6bJ4JZpqOlFdYelWwsBr⁠ Workfluencer, content creator, employee content, creator at work, corporate creator, internal creator, content at your company, content strategy, personal brand, employer brand, recruiting content, HR content, B2B content, authenticity at work, workplace content, company storytelling, podcast hosting, creator career paths, content inside companies, employee advocacy, talent acquisition content, LinkedIn creators, brand building, workplace storytelling, content psychology, creator roles Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Maureen Wiley-Clough didn’t set out to become a creator. She simply got tired of being called “a dino” in tech — and decided the silence around ageism needed to end. What started as a vulnerable side project became a top-2% podcast, a thriving community, and a message that resonates with anyone who’s felt “too old” to start something new. In this episode, we get into how Maureen built confidence, hit publish while working in a youth-obsessed industry, and kept going even when no one was watching. We talk about comparison traps, owning your voice, booking big guests before you feel ready, and why your best content usually comes after you stop caring what other people think. Whether you’re starting a podcast, building a creator presence, or trying to find the courage to show up online, this one hits home. We cover: How ageism shaped her creator journey Starting a podcast while working in tech Publishing content when you’re scared or unsure Breaking the comparison loop in the creator economy Broadening your niche without losing your message Booking big-name guests early Turning a podcast into a real business Why it’s never too late to build influence If you’re building confidence, building a brand, or building a new chapter — this episode is your sign to begin. CONNECT WITH US: Connect with Maureen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maureenwclough/ Check out Maureen's Podcast: https://www.itgetslateearly.com/ Connect with Rhona: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Want to turn your team into creators? Visit workfluencermedia.com to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent. Don't forget to leave us a 5-star Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts  ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/workfluencer/id1740429498⁠ 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify  ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4R6bJ4JZpqOlFdYelWwsBr⁠ workfluencer, ageism in tech, older workers in tech, creator confidence, content creation tips, start creating content, creator journey, podcast growth, women in tech, midlife career growth, building influence, start a podcast, creator economy, professional creators, creator mindset, finding your voice, content strategy, overcoming fear to create, creator motivation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most employees have no idea what’s really happening inside their own company — and that’s exactly why so many advocacy programs fall flat. Matt See has spent his career transforming internal comms at massive organizations, and he’s discovered something most leaders miss: employee advocacy doesn’t start with LinkedIn posts or social-media training. It starts inside. In this episode, Matt and Rhona dig into how internal storytelling can transform culture, inspire authentic advocacy, and turn your employees into your best brand ambassadors — without a single content calendar. What You’ll Learn Why internal comms often fail (and how to cut through the noise) The four-part framework Matt uses: Inform, Educate, Inspire, Celebrate How to build “reporter beats” inside your org to uncover real stories Why your all-company email should feel like it came from your bank or your mom How to measure success beyond open rates and clicks The secret to getting employees to actually visit the intranet How internal stories power your external employer-brand reputation CONNECT WITH US Connect with Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-see/ Connect with Rhona: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Want to turn your team into creators? Visit perceptiblestudios.com to learn how we help companies build video-first content systems that attract, engage, and retain talent. Don't forget to leave us a 5-star Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts  ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/workfluencer/id1740429498⁠ 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify  ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4R6bJ4JZpqOlFdYelWwsBr⁠ Workfluencer, employee advocacy, internal communications, storytelling, company culture, employer branding, leadership, employee engagement, workplace storytelling, brand communication, HR strategy, Matt See Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when your worst bosses plant seeds that turn into your best lessons? In this episode of Workfluencer, Kat Kibben—author, speaker, and founder of Three Ears Media—joins Rhona to talk about healing work trauma, rebuilding confidence, and writing a book that almost didn’t happen. Kat opens up about the three-year journey behind The Bounce Back Factor, van life lessons that rewired their approach to leadership, and why editing was harder than writing. You’ll hear the story behind their first flat tire, the imposter syndrome that nearly killed the book, and the harsh feedback that forced Kat to rewrite the ending—but made it stronger. This is the author interview no publicist would approve—the messy, honest, behind-the-scenes story of what it really takes to bounce back. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Buy The Bounce Back Factor: http://thebouncebackfactorbook.com/ Hire Kat: https://threeearsmedia.com/ Video Podcast Production - Perceptible Studios: https://perceptiblestudios.com/ CONNECT WITH US: Follow Kat on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrinakibben/ Connect with Rhona: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Don't forget to leave us a 5-star Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts  ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/workfluencer/id1740429498⁠ 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify  ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4R6bJ4JZpqOlFdYelWwsBr⁠ Workfluencer, Kat Kibben, The Bounce Back Factor, leadership, resilience, van life, work trauma, bad bosses, imposter syndrome, writing a book, Three Ears Media, career growth, Workfluencer podcast, HR, personal growth, burnout recovery, workplace culture Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of The Workfluencer Podcast, Rhona Pierce sits down with Sherehan Ross, VP of Marketing at Modus Planning, to talk about the human side of B2B marketing. From viral LinkedIn rants to the chaos of working moms and motherhood, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to grow a personal brand, lead with marketing authenticity, and avoid burnout while balancing work and family. Sherehan explains how “building in public” turned into her most powerful form of content creation, why she believes revenue isn’t a marketing KPI, and how her “3-6-9 plan” transformed her B2B marketing strategy. Together, Rhona and Sherehan unpack the moments every marketer, parent, and creator can relate to — the messy middle, the fear of posting on social media, and learning how to build trust online without losing yourself. What you’ll learn How to build a personal brand that attracts opportunity, not burnout Why authenticity beats perfection in marketing leadership The truth about motherhood in B2B sales — and why the “balance” myth must go How to use community-driven branding to build loyalty and connection What it really takes to go viral on LinkedIn (and why you probably shouldn’t try) The fine line between relatable rants and meaningful storytelling CONNECT WITH US: Sherehan's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherehanross/ Rhona's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ workfluencer, workfluencer podcast, rhona pierce, sherehan ross, marketing leadership, building in public, content creation, b2b marketing strategy, b2b, how to build a personal brand, marketing authenticity, avoid burnout in marketing, female leaders in tech, linkedin, how to go viral, marketing community building, branding, the human side of b2b marketing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Before “personal brand” became a buzzword, Hung Lee was already doing it—building Recruiting Brainfood into one of the most trusted communities in the industry. In this conversation, recorded at RecFest USA 2025, Hung and Rhona dig into what it really takes for recruiters to think like media brands: showing up every week, curating with integrity, and letting transparency replace polish. He shares how an accidental send from the beach in Lisbon made him realize just how much readers depended on his newsletter. Plus, why he believes quantity beats quality, what he looks for in every Brainfood link, and how his “Open Kitchen” approach builds trust without a team. If you create content around recruiting or employer branding, this episode is a masterclass in consistency and community. In This Episode: The Lisbon mishap that proved consistency matters (when his phone blew up overnight) Hung’s 4-point test for what makes content “Brainfood” How to curate without gatekeeping Why recruiters should think like media companies The “Open Kitchen” philosophy of transparency Why quantity beats quality for creators Running a one-person media brand without a team Thanks to the folks at Teamtailor for letting us film at their booth.  Discover why over 10,000 of the smartest companies in the world use Teamtailor to attract talent and optimize their recruitment https://link.rhonapierce.com/TTRecFest25 RESOURCES MENTIONED Subscribe to Recruiting Brainfood - https://www.recruitingbrainfood.com/  Get Rhona's Newsletter - https://link.rhonapierce.com/YZEviw  Perceptible Studios: Video Podcast Production - https://www.perceptiblestudios.com/  CONNECT WITH US: Connect With Hung on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hunglee/  Connect with Rhona on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/    Don't forget to leave us a 5-star Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts  ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/workfluencer/id1740429498⁠ 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify  ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4R6bJ4JZpqOlFdYelWwsBr⁠ Workfluencer, Recruiting Brainfood, recruiter media brand, content curation, creator mindset, HR content marketing, Workfluencer Podcast, Hung Lee Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everyone wants to get paid to speak, but few know how to turn it into a real career. In this episode, Torin Ellis joins Rhona Pierce to break down the business behind the mic — from commanding rooms and carving your niche to staying relevant in a space that changes overnight. You’ll learn: How to turn free speaking gigs into paid opportunities The mindset shift that keeps your message authentic (even when the world isn’t) When to raise your rates — and how much The power of relationships in getting booked Why “caring about people” will always be timeless advice Plus, in the Time to Confess segment: Torin reveals the surprising songs on his pre-stage playlist The one event he’ll never speak at again And the biggest misconception people have about him CONNECT WITH US: Connect With Torin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/torinellis/ Connect with Rhona on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Don't forget to leave us a 5-star Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/workfluencer/id1740429498⁠ 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4R6bJ4JZpqOlFdYelWwsBr⁠ Workfluencer, getting paid to speak, speaking career, public speaking tips, professional speaker, Torin Ellis, HR conference speaker, building a speaking business Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most recruiters think they’re filling roles. Dave Vu thinks they should be building brands. In this episode, Rhona Pierce sits down with the co-founder of Ribbon.ai to explore why the future of recruiting belongs to teams who think like marketers. From his early days in talent acquisition to building one of the most talked-about AI interview platforms, Dave shares how empathy, storytelling, and transparency can transform candidate experience — and why bad recruiters should probably be worried about AI. You’ll learn: Why recruiting is really just marketing in disguise How to turn candidates into fans — even the ones you reject The difference between “culture fit” and “culture add” How AI can free recruiters to focus on what humans do best: build relationships What every recruiter can do today to stand out as a brand If you’ve ever said, “I don’t have time to create content — I have reqs to fill,” this one’s for you. RESOURCES MENTIONED Learn More about Ribbon.ai - https://www.ribbon.ai/ Get Rhona's Newsletter - https://link.rhonapierce.com/YZEviw Perceptible Studios: Video Content Production - https://www.perceptiblestudios.com/ CONNECT WITH US: Connect With Dave on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-vu/ Connect with Rhona on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Don't forget to leave us a 5-star Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/workfluencer/id1740429498⁠ 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4R6bJ4JZpqOlFdYelWwsBr⁠ Workfluencer, Recruiting, Employer Branding, Recruitment Marketing, Talent Acquisition, AI Recruiting, Candidate Experience, HR Technology, Ribbon.ai, Workfluencer Podcast, Dave Vu, Personal Brand for Recruiters, TA Strategy, Culture Add, Hiring Innovation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Laurie Ruettimann has spent nearly two decades shaping how we talk about work—from CNN’s “Top Career Advisor” list to her globally recognized Punk Rock HR podcast. But behind the accolades lies a story of confidence, capitalism, and the unpaid labor of influence. In this episode, Laurie joins Rhona Pierce to pull back the curtain on what it really takes to turn credibility into a career—how she built her platform before influencer culture existed, why “being right” doesn’t always pay, and the emotional toll of being HR famous. They talk money, mistakes, and the myth of full authenticity online—and Laurie’s raw advice for anyone chasing visibility in the HR and creator world. We covered: The early days of blogging before “influencer” was a job title The moment she realized confidence had to be self-made Why being “10% more real” is enough online How unpaid labor powers most “personal brands” The financial and emotional costs of standing for something RESOURCES MENTIONED: Laurie's new LinkedIn Learning Course: https://www.linkedin.com/learning/ethical-hr-leadership/ethics-the-secret-to-driving-business-success Listen to Laurie's Podcast: https://laurieruettimann.com/podcast/ Get Rhona's Newsletter - https://link.rhonapierce.com/YZEviw Perceptible Studios: Video Podcast Production - https://www.perceptiblestudios.com/ CONNECT WITH US: Connect with Laurie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurieruettimann/ Connect with Rhona on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ Don't forget to leave us a 5-star Review ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 💜 Leave a review on Apple Podcasts ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/workfluencer/id1740429498⁠ 🟢 Leave a rating on Spotify ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/4R6bJ4JZpqOlFdYelWwsBr⁠ workfluencer, Laurie Ruettimann, HR famous, Punk Rock HR, Workfluencer podcast, Rhona Pierce, personal brand, creator economy, HR tech, human resources, talent acquisition, career advice, blogging, influencer marketing, podcasting, LinkedIn Learning, keynote speaker, authenticity online Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if someone stole your entire career — your résumé, portfolio, headshot, even your home address? In this Workfluencer Trend Report, Rhona explores the real case of freelance writer Jolissa Skow, who discovered an imposter had been living her professional life since 2023. The impersonator used Jolissa’s identity to land contract work, participate in Slack, attend camera-off meetings, and even get paid — all while colleagues believed they were working with her. Based on Jolissa’s public LinkedIn posts and reporting by Dr. Janice Gassam Asare, this episode examines how career identity theft is emerging as a new risk for anyone building a personal brand. With job scams tripling since 2020 and 17% of hiring managers reporting deepfake candidates, the line between authentic and artificial has never been thinner. Has this happened to you? Share your questions or story at https://www.workfluencerpodcast.com — your voicemail may shape a future series on protecting your brand from impersonation. RESOURCES MENTIONED: Read Dr. Gassam Assare's article here: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/career-identity-theft-how-one-womans-stolen-without-asare-ph-d--2zrre/ CONNECT WITH RHONA ON LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhonabarnettpierce/ personal branding, remote work, identity theft, workfluencer, Job scams, Protecting your brand, Online reputation, Career protection, Employment fraud, personal brand protection, imposter scams, remote work risks, professional impersonation Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices