Create Like the Greats

In this special recap episode, I look back at the ten big predictions I made for 2024—and rate how each one actually turned out. From continued tech layoffs to a surge in AI-driven content (and even a bold guess about a marketing conference with good food), I evaluate which predictions nailed it, which ones fizzled, and what surprised me the most. Tune in to hear the year-in-review of AI’s rise, the state of SaaS, Hollywood hits, and more! Episode Breakdown 1. Layoffs & Tech Restructuring How many companies really did another round of layoffs in 2024? The role AI and offshoring played in driving deeper cost cuts. Did Apple avoid massive layoffs as predicted? 2. SaaS & AI Acquisition Frenzy Which big SaaS players scooped up AI startups—did smaller companies with little traction get acquired? Why Gong didn’t get bought by a giant (yet). The state of SaaS valuations in 2024—did they return to record highs? 3. AI Content Takes Center Stage Checking in on fully AI-generated commercials, shorts, or movies that took the internet by storm. The reality of AI plus human co-creation. How close we got to truly tear-jerking or hyper-realistic AI productions. 4. Rise of the “Head of AI” Role Did companies from every sector really start hiring for AI leadership roles? The mix of responsibilities and how quickly these roles grew in 2024. 5. Marketing Conference Food Miracle A lighthearted prediction that a marketing event might finally serve amazing food—did it happen? Listener stories and personal experiences from 2024 conferences. 6. AI-Generated Super Bowl Ads Which brands used AI in their creative process for the Big Game? How much of the final product was truly AI vs. human-driven editing? 7. AI Companions: Breakthrough or Bust? Analyzing the rise of AI girlfriend/boyfriend apps for companionship and mental-health support. Any major bans or government crackdowns on “fake companion” apps? Surprising ways these tools impacted real people’s lives. 8. Mr. Beast’s Next Big Venture Did 2024 see Mr. Beast launch a project that pushed him into billionaire territory? A look at how he expanded his brand or philanthropic efforts. 9. Bad Boys 4 at the Box Office Did Will Smith’s return pull in the predicted $600M+ globally? Exploring the film’s performance and reception post-controversy. 10. Influencer Retires for Politics Did we see a well-known social media star hang up the mic and announce a run for office? The blurry line between internet fame and political ambition. — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross talks about why having a strong online presence is so important for brands that want to grow and connect with their audience. One platform that’s becoming a big part of this is Reddit. With its many different communities or subreddits, Reddit gives brands a great way to connect with people in genuine and meaningful ways. This episode breaks down how to set clear goals on Reddit and use it to build your brand and grow your community. Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. Build Brand Awareness Reddit is a great place to make your brand known in specific communities by sharing valuable content in the right subreddits. Instead of flooding users with promotional links, focus on being helpful and sharing things that matter to the community. Over time, this builds trust and makes your brand stand out. 2. Drive Traffic Strategically Think of Reddit as a way to guide people toward your business naturally. By answering questions, sharing tips, and being a helpful presence, you can encourage users to check out your brand without coming across as pushy. This keeps your content from feeling like spam and makes people more likely to trust you. 3. Generate Sales Lead Reddit offers opportunities to tap into bottom-of-funnel conversations where users are actively making purchase decisions. By creating valuable content or engaging in threads related to your product or service, you can position your brand as a trusted solution. Over time, this content gains visibility, driving more traffic and converting leads effectively. 4. Build Community Reddit isn’t just about traffic—it’s also a way to build a community of fans who love your brand. When you genuinely interact with people and provide value, they can become loyal supporters who share your message and promote your products or services on their own. These fans can be a huge asset to your marketing efforts. References: Create Once, Distribute Forever - https://rosssimmonds.com/book/ STAT - https://getstat.com/foundation-exclusive — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode, Ross shares an engaging conversation he had with Vince Nero from BuzzStream, diving into content distribution. Together, they discuss practical strategies to help marketers improve their reach and make a bigger impact in today’s digital landscape. Ross also highlights key lessons from his book, Create Once, Distribute Forever, offering fresh perspectives on how marketers can rethink their approach to content. Packed with actionable advice and real-world examples, this episode is perfect for anyone looking to step up their content distribution game. Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. The Genesis of Create Once, Distribute Forever Ross takes listeners behind the scenes of writing his book, sharing the persistence and vision that brought it to life. It was a four-year journey full of life changes and the chaos of a global pandemic, but Ross stayed committed to creating something that would leave a mark in the world of content distribution. At its heart, the book is about uncovering the untapped potential in the content you already have. As Ross puts it, “There’s so much more juice you could squeeze out of this stuff.” It’s a powerful reminder for marketers to rethink how they use and share their content. 2. The Importance of Content Distribution Ross breaks down why content distribution is such a game-changer for marketers. Too often, companies focus solely on creating content and forget about getting it in front of the right audience. Ross sees this as a missed opportunity. He challenges marketers to move beyond simply “selling hours” and instead build systems and processes that keep content moving, circulating, and staying relevant. It’s about creating a strategy that ensures your content works harder and smarter for you. 3. Building Relationships Through Outreach In a world where AI and automation dominate, Ross emphasizes the importance of keeping outreach personal. He describes outreach as a bit of a game, encouraging marketers to build relationships first before making any big asks. “There’s nothing better than an email that’s well-developed and well-researched,” he explains. The balance lies in using AI to streamline some tasks while ensuring that the human touch remains at the forefront. This approach fosters real connections and creates lasting impressions.  4. Understanding Your Audience Ross makes it clear: if you don’t know your audience, your marketing is going to fall flat. He stresses the importance of starting with well-defined customer personas to ensure that your content truly connects. To find inspiration, Ross suggests using platforms like Reddit to uncover trending topics and see what’s sparking conversations. By understanding what resonates with people, marketers can create meaningful content that hits the mark and distributes it with purpose. References: Create Once, Distribute Forever - https://rosssimmonds.com/book/ How To Create Once, Distribute Forever (Ross Simmonds) BuzzStream Podcast Episode - https://shorturl.at/MzWFZ — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross shares his personal journey of learning to manage time, energy, and focus with intention. He explores six key areas that have shaped his approach to prioritizing what matters most, emphasizing that focus evolves with life’s changing seasons. Whether you’re 19 or 65, refining your focus is essential for meaningful growth and success. Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. Building Meaningful Relationships Meaningful relationships thrive on mutual support and genuine connection, not one-sided asks. Ross shares how some only reach out during tough times or when they need something, without checking in or collaborating. Drawing from advice he received years ago, Ross emphasizes the importance of being a “giver”—someone who adds value to those around them. By prioritizing generosity and collaboration, you build trust, foster stronger connections, and create a network rooted in shared success. 2. The Importance of Continuous Improvement Kobe Bryant’s philosophy serves as a rallying cry for growth: “You're not good enough just the way you are. You need to keep improving.” Whether at the start of your career or decades into it, the key to success lies in evolving with purpose. Consistent practice and a commitment to learning new skills ensure you stay adaptable and competitive. By embracing a growth mindset, you can continuously refine your approach to challenges and opportunities. 3. Creating Value Through Your Work Ross shares a game-changing perspective on content creation: “Instead of writing 365 blog posts, I focused on creating pieces of content that, when consumed, help someone profoundly.” This insight highlights the importance of prioritizing quality over quantity in everything we do. Whether crafting impactful content or contributing meaningfully to team discussions, value creation should remain at the heart of your efforts. It’s a strategy that not only enriches your work but also deepens your connections with others. 4. Embracing Change with Purpose Change, though inevitable, can be a powerful catalyst for growth when approached with the right mindset. Instead of fearing transitions, view them as opportunities to learn, adapt, and thrive. By embracing change purposefully, you can navigate uncertainties with confidence and create new pathways for success—both in your career and personal life. 5. Building When You're Not in the Mood There will always be moments when motivation falters—mornings when you don’t want to write, evenings when recording feels like a chore. But pushing through those moments can be transformative. Ross reflects on the satisfaction that comes from building even when it feels hard, emphasizing that consistency in these moments strengthens discipline and moves you closer to your goals. By creating regardless of your mood, you build a mindset that transcends fleeting emotions, setting yourself apart from those who stop when the spark isn’t there. 6. Do Not Be Passive with Your Life Passivity can hold you back from growth and opportunity. Ross stresses the importance of being decisive and purposeful in your actions. Analyzing your options and taking swift, deliberate steps can prevent stagnation and regret. Reflecting on past mistakes of playing it safe, Ross underscores that waiting for circumstances to change on their own rarely leads to success. Instead, take charge, make bold moves, and keep progressing toward your goals. — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross Simmonds dives into the transformative concept of the “Circle of Control vs. Circle of Concern.” In a world where being "too busy" often becomes a badge of honor, Ross challenges this mindset by exploring how the time we save from one distraction is often squandered on another. Drawing on Stephen Covey’s timeless framework from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Ross provides actionable advice to help listeners identify what truly matters, focus on what they can control, and let go of what they can’t. Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, or creative professional, this episode offers practical strategies to help you reclaim your time and energy. Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. The “Too Busy” Myth Many people proudly declare they’re too busy for unproductive habits like watching TV, yet they often replace it with equally unproductive activities such as endless scrolling on social media. The issue isn’t the specific distraction but how we manage our time overall. Ross highlights that truly effective individuals don’t just eliminate distractions; they deliberately prioritize activities within their control to maximize productivity and fulfillment. 2. Circle of Control vs. Circle of Concern Stephen Covey’s framework divides our attention into two categories: Circle of Concern: These include things we care about but cannot influence, like algorithm changes, celebrity gossip, or others’ successes. Circle of Control: These involve aspects within our power to change, such as our personal habits, producing meaningful work, or managing our mindset. Ross emphasizes that the more time and energy we devote to our Circle of Control, the more productive and fulfilled we become. This mindset shift not only reduces stress but also empowers us to achieve meaningful progress. 3. Actionable Questions to Start Shifting Your Focus Ross encourages listeners to ask themselves two key questions to realign their priorities: How often do I focus on activities that genuinely move me forward, such as working on my goals or honing my skills? Are my daily actions aligned with the things I can actually influence?  Resources: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey  — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, we take a deep dive into a common yet critical challenge: how to navigate an overwhelming world of to-dos, notifications, and endless demands, while separating true opportunities from distractions. This journal-style entry gives actionable advice and shares personal reflections on managing focus, setting boundaries, and leveraging self-awareness to achieve greatness. Key Takeaways and Insights: 1.  Distractions vs. Opportunities Distractions divert you from your goals, while opportunities align with and propel you toward them. For example, Americans spend an average of 11 hours daily consuming media, much of which is unproductive noise. To succeed, creators and entrepreneurs must take intentional control of their inputs, focusing on content and activities that support their objectives. 2. The Psychology of Distractions Distractions are often designed to exploit the brain's dopamine-driven reward system, such as through notifications, likes, and comments. To combat this, it's essential to avoid becoming emotionally invested in analytics or social engagement metrics. Instead, focus on long-term objectives and resist the temptation of short-term validation, which can derail your progress. 3. When Distractions Become Opportunities Sometimes, distractions can transform into opportunities. For instance, experimenting with Reddit content in 2017 was initially viewed as a distraction, but it eventually became a competitive advantage. The lesson here is that certain distractions, when aligned with your broader goals, can evolve into valuable opportunities that enhance your success. 4. Actionable Strategies to Stay Focused: Set SMART Goals: Make goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Timely. Conquer Time Management: Use tools like calendars and conduct regular time audits to track how you're spending each moment. Leverage the Eisenhower Matrix: Categorize tasks as: Do First (urgent & important) Schedule (important but not urgent) Delegate (low priority for you to handle directly) Eliminate (neither urgent nor important). The Two-Minute Rule: If a task takes less than 2 minutes, get it done immediately instead of postponing. — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross sits down with Tommy Walker to dive into his groundbreaking report, The State of Discontent, which reveals critical challenges and emerging trends in the content marketing industry. Through in-depth interviews and data analysis, Tommy highlights the gaps in audience research, the evolving role of meaning in storytelling, and the ethical use of AI in content creation. Together, they discuss how marketers can adapt their strategies, embrace innovation, and foster stronger team dynamics to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape. This conversation is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to stay ahead in the content marketing world. Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. The Importance of Audience Research in Content Marketing Tommy Walker’s report reveals a startling statistic: 40.3% of content marketers fail to conduct sufficient audience research. This oversight undermines the effectiveness of content marketing strategies, as understanding the audience is crucial for crafting impactful messages. Many marketers make the mistake of relying too heavily on assumptions about their existing audience, leading to a disconnect between the content’s intention and its reception. The episode underscores that audience research is not just a step in the process—it’s the foundation of meaningful engagement. 2. The Shift from Information to Meaning Content marketing is no longer just about disseminating information; it’s about creating content that resonates deeply with the audience. Tommy explains that audiences are increasingly seeking narratives that connect with their values and experiences. Simply presenting ideas without context or emotional relevance misses the mark. The discussion highlights how prioritizing meaning over information enables marketers to forge genuine connections that leave a lasting impact. 3. Leveraging AI Responsibly AI’s role in content creation is transformative, but only when used responsibly. Tommy and Ross delve into the importance of frameworks that integrate AI without sacrificing quality. While AI can streamline processes and boost productivity, it cannot replace the creative and strategic thinking integral to impactful content. A skilled writer using AI as a tool can amplify their work, but poor foundational skills will still yield subpar results. The key takeaway is that AI should complement, not replace, human ingenuity. 4. The Road Ahead: Long-Term Vision in Content Marketing The episode emphasizes the need for a long-term vision in content marketing, which is often overshadowed by short-term goals. Tommy points out that neglecting thorough audience research not only hampers immediate efforts but also jeopardizes the ability to build sustainable relationships. By focusing on a strategic, forward-looking approach, marketers can attract the right audience and nurture connections that endure, ensuring their content remains relevant and impactful over time. Resources: The State of Discontent - https://www.thecontentstudio.com/the-state-of-discontent/ — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds — Follow Tommy Walker — ╰ Twitter / X: @tommyismyname ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tommyismyname/

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross shares effective strategies for maximizing the return on investment (ROI) from long-form content. He delves into the importance of repurposing content and building a sustainable content marketing strategy to extract maximum value from a single high-quality piece. From generating micro-content to strategically distributing material across various platforms, Ross outlines essential techniques for extending the reach and impact of your content in today’s competitive marketing landscape. Tune in to learn how to create a ripple effect from your original content, turning it into a resource that keeps delivering results. Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. The Race Begins with High-Quality Content Every successful content marketing journey starts with an investment in a high-quality piece of long-form content. Whether it’s a comprehensive blog post, a well-researched e-book, or an engaging video, this initial effort creates a strong foundation. By focusing on delivering real value, you set the stage for a content strategy that can go the distance and support multiple marketing goals. 2. Why Long-Form Content? Long-form content is the backbone of a strong content marketing strategy because it offers depth and value that both audiences and search engines appreciate. In-depth articles and resources not only improve your search rankings but also engage readers more effectively and build credibility. A well-crafted, informative piece helps establish you as an authority, attracting more organic traffic and solidifying your place in the industry. 3. The Strategy: Repurposing and Distribution Once your long-form content is live, the next step is to make it work for you through repurposing and smart distribution. Break down your main content into micro-formats, like social media snippets, videos, or infographics, to engage your audience across multiple channels. A strategic approach to repurposing and distributing content ensures you get the most out of your initial investment while continuously reaching new and existing audiences. Resources: Distribution.ai - https://distribution.ai/ — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross breaks down the essentials of marketing on Reddit—covering the metrics that matter, strategies that actually work, and the mistakes that brands often make when they step onto the platform. Ross lays out actionable steps to help marketers make an impact, from tracking engagement to building genuine relationships and delivering content that truly adds value. Whether you’re new to Reddit or looking to level up your approach, this episode is your guide to getting it right on Reddit. Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. Upvote to Downvote Ratio The upvote-to-downvote ratio is a quick yet powerful way to measure content success on Reddit. A high upvote count reflects that your content resonates positively with users, indicating that it adds value or sparks interest. Tracking this ratio helps you understand what works for your audience and fine-tune future content to align with community preferences. 2. Community Sentiment Understanding the sentiment around your brand or content is essential on Reddit, where opinions are often raw and unfiltered. Monitor discussions to gauge whether your posts generate positive engagement or potential backlash. By staying tuned into community sentiment, you can adapt your strategy to better align with audience expectations, ensuring you stay relevant and respected. 3. Authentic Engagement Reddit users prioritize authenticity, making it essential to approach the platform with genuine engagement rather than direct promotion. Instead of hard-selling, participate in conversations, answer questions thoughtfully, and share insights that contribute value. Authentic interactions build trust and credibility, which can have a lasting positive impact on your brand’s presence on Reddit. 4. Create Valuable Content Consistency and quality are key to standing out on Reddit. Take the time to create content that is both informative and valuable to the community. Address common interests, questions, and pain points to position your brand as a helpful resource. Reddit’s audience is highly discerning, so prioritize quality over quantity to establish a strong, positive reputation. And many more… Resources: Reddit For The Enterprise: The Guide To Reddit Marketing - https://foundationinc.co/lab/reddit-marketing/ 4 Content Marketing Tips To Use When Marketing On Reddit - https://foundationinc.co/lab/reddit-marketing-tips/ — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross dives into the concept of the "content marketing remix," an innovative approach to amplifying content reach by repurposing and reformatting existing material. By remixing content across different platforms, marketers can engage new audiences while maximizing the impact of their original work. Ross shares actionable insights and examples, demonstrating how to creatively recycle content to keep it fresh and relevant.  Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. Understanding the Content Marketing Remix The content marketing remix is the practice of reimagining and reshaping existing content to fit various formats and platforms. By adapting content to different mediums, brands can tell a cohesive story while connecting with diverse audience segments, ultimately amplifying their message and extending content lifespan. 2. Tactical Approaches for Remixing Content To implement a successful content remix strategy, here are several practical ways to transform existing material: Summarize the podcast discussion into a blog post. Create a YouTube video version of the blog post. Develop short video clips for social media platforms. Turn podcast insights into checklists or downloadable PDFs. Extract key quotes from blogs and design shareable graphics. Use tools like Canva to convert data into infographics. Repurpose long-form articles as microblogs on different platforms. Resources: Distribution.ai - https://distribution.ai/ — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross explores how marketers and creators can harness Reddit as a powerful tool for growth and community engagement. Packed with actionable insights, the episode breaks down key strategies for effectively engaging on Reddit, from finding the right communities to hosting AMAs and running ads. Listeners will learn how to share valuable content authentically, foster discussions, and use Reddit's unique culture to boost visibility and drive engagement.  Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. Engaging in Subreddits Identify subreddits where your target audience is active, and contribute to discussions with authentic value. Engaging in relevant communities like r/marketing for software topics can help subtly promote your brand while building genuine connections. 2. Hosting Ask Me Anything (AMA) Sessions Host or sponsor AMAs to give Redditors direct access to your expertise or that of an industry leader. An AMA allows users to ask questions about your niche, letting you provide value and establish credibility through open and honest interaction. 3. Strategic Commenting Host or sponsor AMAs to give Redditors direct access to your expertise or that of an industry leader. An AMA allows users to ask questions about your niche, letting you provide value and establish credibility through open and honest interaction. 4. Creating Educational Content Share guides, infographics, or other educational resources that help users better understand your industry. By offering actionable and transparent content, you add value to the community and position yourself as an expert in the field. And many more… Resources: Distribution.ai - https://distribution.ai/ — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, we dive into the strategic implications of Semrush's recent acquisition of a high-traffic blog and what it reveals about ROI opportunities in digital marketing. We explore how acquiring media entities can transform a company's overall marketing strategy by boosting visibility and creating new pathways for growth. Additionally, we analyze the competitive edge gained through strategic acquisitions, particularly in the SaaS space, and the vital role SEO and backlinks play in maximizing the value of these deals.  Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. The Value of Traffic Acquisition Acquiring high-traffic media platforms presents untapped ROI potential for businesses. Ross emphasized that media entities bring immense value by offering access to vast and engaged audiences. Semrush's acquisition of a blog, which draws over 4.8 million visits, showcases how strategic media buys can enhance a company's reach and strengthen their marketing ecosystem. 2. Strategic Acquisitions in SaaS Ross highlighted that SaaS companies purchasing media properties is a game-changing trend in today's competitive market. As software products become harder to differentiate, acquiring media with a loyal audience provides companies with immediate customer access and credibility. This tactic allows businesses to influence perception and control narratives in ways that traditional marketing can't always achieve. 3. Mastering SEO and Backlinking Successful acquisitions are often underpinned by strong SEO and backlink strategies. Ross pointed out that media platforms with superior SEO performance can propel a brand's online visibility. By securing backlinks from authoritative sources, companies can improve their SERP rankings and drive sustained organic growth—further amplifying the value of their media acquisitions. Resources: Semrush - https://www.semrush.com/ — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross shares a conversation from The Niche Marketing Podcast with John Bertino, where they dive deep into learning about how to do content marketing for boring industries. From collaborating with influencers to designing a newsletter that drives engagement, they explore actionable strategies to get your message out there. The discussion is packed with insights on influencer marketing, distribution tactics, and leveraging newsletters to tell a brand’s story effectively.  Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. The Linear Process of B2B Marketing Ross breaks down the step-by-step approach to B2B marketing, which begins with demonstrating the value of your offering. He explains how selling a story, not just a product, drives transactions and secures sales. But the journey doesn’t stop there—Ross emphasizes the need to build continuity in storytelling. By crafting evergreen content, marketers can continually repurpose stories into assets like short-form videos, maintaining relevance long after the sale. 2. Finding the Right Influencers Ross stresses the importance of choosing influencers who align with your brand and audience. Effective influencers create content that educates and entertains, while building trust with their followers. Ross also highlights the power of paid media to amplify influencer content, enabling brands to increase their reach and engagement, especially within niche markets. 3. Ongoing Distribution and Internal Communication Content distribution doesn’t end once it’s published, that’s only the beginning. Regularly redistributing content across multiple platforms is key to sustaining its visibility. He also emphasizes strong internal communication, ensuring that teams like sales are fully aware of new content, like case studies, so they can integrate it into conversations with clients. Resources: Niche Marketing Podcast - https://www.nichemarketingpodcast.com/ — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross shares his thoughts on the future of AI, inspired by Sam Altman's insights. He dives into how AI is poised to revolutionize our work, culture, and ability to solve complex problems. Ross explores how far human capabilities have come and how AI will continue to enhance our potential. He also reflects on the current state of AI adoption and how those who take advantage of it now will have a significant edge in the future.  Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. People Have Become Dramatically More Capable Over Time  Over the years, human productivity has soared to levels previously thought impossible. Tasks like sending hundreds of emails, creating design mockups, optimizing blog posts, and repurposing content can now be done in minutes, thanks to technological advancements. Yet, many still overlook the full potential of AI. In retrospect, we’ll see this moment as a missed opportunity if we don't take action now. No matter your field—SEO, video editing, social media, sales—AI tools should be a core part of your toolkit. Those who embrace AI today will be ahead of the curve tomorrow. 2. AI Will Equip Us to Solve Complex Problems AI is not just an incremental tool; it's a revolutionary one. As we integrate AI into more aspects of work and life, it will allow us to solve challenges that were previously out of reach. Recent reports predict that AI could contribute trillions to global productivity, especially in areas like marketing optimization, lead generation, and personalized outreach. This is just the beginning. Future generations will likely harness AI to achieve things we can't even imagine today. 3. AI Will Improve Lives as It Scales AI’s growth is just starting, and while the initial hype has quieted, the true power of AI is just beginning to unfold. As AI scales, it will bring profound improvements to everyday life—especially for those who integrate it into their workflows now. The ROI for early adopters who use AI to streamline communication, personalize campaigns, and analyze data is already extraordinary. The buzz may have faded, but those who stay the course will see transformative benefits Resources: Distribution.Ai - https://distribution.ai/ The Intelligence Age: What It Means For Business & Revenue - https://rosssimmonds.com/intelligence-age/ The Intelligence Age - https://ia.samaltman.com/ Superintelligence: Paths, Dangers, Strategies - https://www.amazon.ca/Superintelligence-Dangers-Strategies-Nick-Bostrom/dp/0199678111 HeyGen - https://heygen.com/?sid=rewardful&via=ross-simmonds Jasper - https://www.jasper.ai/chat?fpr=foundationinc Frase - https://www.frase.io/?via=ross73 — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross sits down with Max Branstetter from the Wild Business Growth Podcast to share his journey from a fantasy football blogger to the founder of Foundation, a leading content distribution agency. Ross reveals how his passion for fantasy football led him to build essential skills in writing and content creation, ultimately shaping his path to entrepreneurship. He also dives into the concept of "Create Once, Distribute Forever," offering practical insights into maximizing the reach of your content. Plus, he shares valuable lessons on work-life balance, hiring your first employee, and even the wisdom gained from top deathbed regrets. This episode is packed with strategies and stories that can inspire creators and entrepreneurs alike. Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. Workcation Ross explains how a well-planned workcation can boost productivity while balancing work and relaxation. By aligning work hours with team availability in different time zones, he managed to stay connected without sacrificing downtime. The key to a successful workcation, he emphasizes, is having a trusted team and systems in place that can operate smoothly in your absence. 2. From Fantasy Football Blogger to Agency Founder Ross takes us through his evolution from a passionate fantasy football blogger to becoming the founder of a successful content distribution agency. He highlights how his obsession with the game gave him the writing and content management skills that would later become the foundation for his career. More than just a hobby, fantasy football taught Ross about community building, long-form content creation, and the realization that the internet could unlock global reach and endless opportunities. 3. Create Once, Distribute Forever Ross outlines his approach to content distribution, emphasizing the importance of sharing content across multiple platforms. His philosophy is simple: If your content has value, it deserves to be shared continuously. In his book, he provides tactical steps on how to leverage different channels like email, social media, and online communities to maximize reach. His goal is to help creators overcome the fear of self-promotion and fully embrace the power of distribution. 4. Hiring Your First Employee Ross reflects on the challenges and triumphs of hiring his first employee. He offers practical advice on finding the right person, delegating tasks, and building a team that can thrive without you micromanaging. According to Ross, hiring the right people is crucial to scaling your business, and trusting them is key to personal and professional growth. 5. Lessons from Deathbed Regrets Drawing inspiration from studies on deathbed regrets, Ross shares his thoughts on living a life without major regrets. He encourages listeners to take bold steps in their careers, prioritize experiences, and make the most of their time. For Ross, it’s a reminder to pursue passion projects and not wait for the "right time," because life is too short to live cautiously. Resources: Foundation Marketing - https://foundationinc.co/ Create Once, Distribute Forever - https://rosssimmonds.com/book/ Wild Business Growth Podcast - https://maxpodcasting.com/wild-business-growth-podcast/ — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross dives into Dale Carnegie's timeless principles from "How To Win Friends and Influence People" and how they can be applied to win in business and marketing today. He highlights the importance of building genuine relationships with your audience, making meaningful interactions, and leveraging digital tools to personalize messages at scale. Ross also discusses how listening attentively, showing positivity, and making others feel valued can significantly enhance both personal and professional relationships. These insights are key to not just winning clients, but creating lasting, impactful connections. Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. Show Genuine Interest in Your Audience As marketers, it’s easy to think of audiences as simply customers, but real success comes when you truly care about their problems and desires. Engaging deeply with your audience means being present in their communities, learning where they spend their time, and understanding their challenges. By studying their online behaviors and preferences, you can connect with them authentically, offering solutions that resonate with their needs. 2. The Power of a Smile A simple smile can transform the tone of your voice, making your message more approachable and positive. People are naturally drawn to positivity, and brands that exude this energy create a sense of trust and likability. Incorporating optimism into your story and content encourages your audience to associate those positive feelings with your brand, making your message more compelling and memorable. 3. Remembering People’s Names In a digital world, personalized interactions go a long way in building rapport. Using tools like email marketing software or AI technologies, you can scale personal messages that address individuals by name. This level of personalization creates a human connection, making your audience feel seen and appreciated, even in large-scale outreach efforts. 4. Be an Active Listener Listening is more than just hearing words; it's about making the other person feel understood. When you actively listen and reflect back what someone has said, it shows them that their voice matters. This builds trust and opens up opportunities for deeper connections, as people value those who take the time to understand their perspectives. 5. Talk in Terms of the Other Person’s Interests It's easy to get caught up in promoting the features and technical aspects of your products, but what truly matters to your audience is how it benefits them. Frame your conversations around their needs, showing them how your solutions will impact their lives or businesses. By speaking their language, you’ll build stronger, more persuasive marketing messages that resonate. 6. Make Others Feel Important—Sincerely People want to feel valued, and when you show genuine care for someone’s well-being or success, it can foster long-lasting relationships. Consistently making others feel important, not just through words but through your actions, strengthens connections and can turn clients into advocates for life.  Resources: HeyGen - https://heygen.com/?sid=rewardful&via=ross-simmonds How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross uncovers content ideas to help you elevate your LinkedIn strategy and drive meaningful engagement.  From leveraging social media to celebrating key milestones and engaging influencers, Ross dives into practical tactics to optimize your content for maximum impact. Ross also explores personalized marketing tools, the power of building human connections, and how to debunk common misconceptions about content creation. Tune in to discover these actionable strategies and start transforming your LinkedIn presence today! Key Takeaways and Insights 1. Leveraging Social Media to Drive Website Traffic Ross highlights the power of social media as a traffic generator when used strategically. By focusing on sharing industry-specific trends and insights, you can create curiosity and encourage your audience to explore more on your website, driving meaningful engagement. 2. Celebrate Milestones and Share Feedback Celebrating company milestones and feedback from both customers and your team creates opportunities to showcase your achievements. Sharing before-and-after snapshots of campaigns or projects allows your audience to see the tangible results of your strategy and draws them into your brand story. 3. Maximizing Content Through Influencers Engaging with influencers who resonate with your brand is a key tactic to expand your reach. Tagging them in your content not only invites engagement but also increases the likelihood of your brand being seen by their followers. Webinars and thoughtful mentions can further deepen these influencer relationships and enhance your credibility. 4. Leveraging Personalized Marketing Tools Ross delves into the use of powerful tools like Koala and HubSpot to personalize outreach. By analyzing who’s interacting with your content, you can craft tailored messages that resonate with individual users. This level of personalization turns casual readers into loyal customers and strengthens your marketing efforts. 5. Building Human Connections Building real human connections is essential in today’s market. Ross emphasizes the importance of showcasing the personal struggles and wins behind your brand. By being transparent and relatable, you build a sense of trust and authenticity that resonates with your audience on a deeper level. 6. Comparing Competing Products and Showcasing Insights Ross advises comparing competing products that your team considers for specific tasks to provide valuable insights for your audience. Sharing this process, along with surprising data points, demonstrates your thought leadership and helps establish your brand as a credible source of information. And many more!  Resources: Koala - https://getkoala.com/ HubSpot - https://hubspot.sjv.io/c/5231276/1001264/12893 — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, with the new Fantasy Football season upon us, Ross revisits an old episode about Fantasy Football and draws parallels between fantasy football strategies and business success. Ross explores how decision-making in the game mirrors the strategies used in the business world. He talks about building your dream team, managing high-performing talent, eliminating bias, and even smack talk—yes, you heard that right! Tune in to discover how lessons from fantasy football can help you optimize your approach to leadership and strategic planning in business. Key Takeaways and Insights: 1.  Building Your Dream Team Just as fantasy football managers carefully select players during the pre-season, businesses must invest time in recruiting the right team members. Ross explains the importance of assembling a cohesive group of high-performing employees, emphasizing that a strong, well-balanced team is crucial for driving the overall success of any business. 2. Balancing Hot Streaks and Consistency In fantasy football, managers often face the dilemma of choosing between a player on a hot streak and a more consistent performer. Ross explores how this applies to managing talent in business, stressing the need to balance short-term gains with long-term potential. Recognizing top performers is important, but understanding their long-term value is key to sustainable success. 3. Removing Personal Bias Personal biases can cloud decision-making, whether you're selecting players for your fantasy team or making strategic business decisions. Ross highlights how removing emotional and personal preferences allows for more objective choices, leading to better outcomes and faster growth in both the business and fantasy worlds. 4. Strategic "Smack Talk" While smack talk is a staple of fantasy sports, it has its place in the business world too—though in a different form. Ross discusses how using competitive banter wisely can help differentiate your business from competitors and draw attention to your unique value. Smack talk in business isn’t about targeting colleagues but about positioning yourself confidently in your industry. 5. Planning Ahead Just as fantasy football players must anticipate future matchups and injuries, businesses need to forecast potential challenges and opportunities. Ross emphasizes the importance of being proactive and planning ahead, helping businesses stay agile and prepared for unexpected hurdles that could disrupt operations or progress. 6. Treating Every Week as a New Challenge In fantasy football, every week brings fresh competition, requiring new strategies and adjustments. Similarly, Ross encourages businesses to treat each week as a new challenge, constantly adapting to market conditions, evolving customer needs, and internal goals. This mindset keeps teams innovative and resilient. 7. Embracing Bold Moves In both fantasy football and business, success often comes from taking bold, calculated risks. Ross explains how businesses can benefit from stepping outside their comfort zone and making daring decisions. Whether it's launching a new product or pivoting strategy, bold moves can lead to breakthroughs and drive significant success. — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

In this special episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross is joined by Ethan Crump, a Senior Content Marketing Specialist at Foundation, to unveil the concept of prompt engineering and its significance in leveraging innovative tools like ChatGPT, Claude, and Perplexity. The conversation delves into how prompt engineering is shaping marketing strategies, exploring its growing influence in the field. Ross and Ethan also discuss the benefits, offering insights into various prompts that can be utilized to enhance AI-driven marketing campaigns. Key Insights 1. Partnering with AI for Enhanced Productivity Treating AI as a collaborator in content creation can significantly enhance productivity. By laying a solid foundation of quality input, AI can expedite the content creation process while maintaining relevance and precision. Effective prompt engineering, particularly when built on advanced prompt-writing techniques, allows for more tailored and goal-aligned outcomes, transforming AI into a powerful tool for marketers. 2. Chain-of-Thought Prompting Chain-of-thought prompting is a technique that enhances the reasoning abilities of AI by guiding it to break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable steps. This method helps the AI provide a clear and logical progression of ideas, leading to more accurate and thoughtful results. By using this approach, you can improve the depth and quality of the AI's responses in your marketing efforts. 3. Leveraging Different Types of Prompts Use a variety of prompt types, such as extraction, summarization, and creation. When used strategically, these prompts can uncover valuable insights, generate engaging content, and effectively connect with your audience. Understanding when and how to use each type of prompt is key to maximizing the impact of AI in your marketing efforts. The AI marketing console has tons of different prompts that people can steal and use. 4. Visual Prompting Visual prompting can yield impressive results in creative fields. Tools like DALLE and Midjourney, enable users to create art or design mockups through well-crafted prompts. By developing a prompt library with specific artists, styles, and techniques, marketers can quickly generate high-quality visuals that align with their brand’s aesthetic and messaging. Resources  Prompt Engineering: A Guide for Marketers and Content Creators - https://foundationinc.co/lab/prompt-engineering-guide-marketers/ AI Marketing Console - https://ross.gumroad.com/l/ai-console — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds — Follow Ethan Crump — ╰ Twitter / X: @EthanCrump9 ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ethancrump94/ ╰ foundationinc.co/team/ethan-crump

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross shares an engaging conversation from his appearance on The Copywriter Club Podcast with Rob Marsh. They explore how content creation is evolving, especially in light of new technologies, and discuss what this means for writers moving forward. The episode dives into the importance of storytelling, the shifting role of content marketers, and practical strategies for making the most of your content. Ross emphasizes the importance of balancing technology with human creativity and strategic thinking in the ever-changing world of content marketing. Key Takeaways and Insights: 1.  The Power of Storytelling and Curiosity Ross emphasizes how storytelling, fueled by curiosity, is key to creating content that resonates. By staying curious and always seeking to learn, writers can craft compelling narratives that capture attention and engage audiences, making their content memorable and impactful. 2. The Rise of AI and Its Impact on Content While AI has allowed for the creation of vast amounts of content, it has also flooded the internet with low-quality and generic articles. Ross highlighted the need for human intervention to elevate the quality of AI-generated content. Great copywriters, content marketers, and writers in general possess unique insights, creativity, and strategic thinking that AI cannot replicate. 3. Evolving Role of Content Marketers Content marketing is not just about producing content; it’s about ensuring that content reaches and resonates with the right audience. Ross discusses the need for content marketers to take a broader view, integrating both creation and marketing strategies to maximize the impact of their work. 4. Maximizing the Lifespan of Content Ross shares the importance of getting the most out of your content by resharing and repurposing it over time. By keeping valuable content in circulation and updating it as needed, businesses can maintain engagement and drive traffic without constantly needing to create new material. This strategy helps to extend the life and effectiveness of existing content. Resources: Create Once, Distribute Forever - https://rosssimmonds.com/book/ The Copywriter Club - https://thecopywriterclub.com/ — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected — ╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV  ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool   ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool   ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds