Engaging Marketeer

What if you couldn’t read or write until you were 30... then went on to become a published author, speaker and trainer working with names like Tony Robbins? In this episode of The Engaging Marketeer, Darren chats with Brian Mayne, author, speaker and creator of Goal Mapping. Brian grew up in a travelling funfair family, left school unable to read or write, lost everything after his nightclub business collapsed, then rebuilt his life through sales, personal development and goal setting. He talks about learning to read at 30, working with names like Tony Robbins, getting published by Penguin Random House, being ripped off during the self-publishing process and why trusting your gut can sometimes save you from a very expensive mistake. It’s a brilliant conversation about resilience, writing, confidence, sales, public speaking and what it really takes to keep going when life knocks you flat. More about Brian: Brian Mayne is a speaker, trainer and multiple published author best known as the creator of Goal Mapping. After growing up in a travelling funfair family and leaving school unable to read or write, Brian transformed his life through personal development and went on to work with global names including Tony Robbins. His books have been translated into multiple languages, and his Goal Mapping system is now used by coaches, trainers and organisations around the world. You can connect with Brian here: Website: https://goalmapping.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianmayne/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrianMayneSpeaker/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/goalmappingbrianmayne/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/brianmayne X: https://x.com/Brian_Mayne About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if hypnosis isn’t as mysterious as the films make it look? 🕰️👀 In this episode of The Engaging Marketeer, Darren chats with Turan Mirza from Feelgood Hypnosis about how hypnosis really works, why so many fears and phobias are learned behaviours and how changing the way we think can completely change the way we feel. From spiders and public speaking to smoking, nail biting, flying, roller coasters and even a remarkable story of trauma recovery after a parachuting accident, Turan explains how hypnosis can help people break old patterns, challenge deep-rooted beliefs and take back control of their own responses. Darren and Turan also explore the surprising link between hypnosis, language and sales, including how suggestion, framing and the words we use every day can influence the way people think, feel and act. It’s a fascinating, funny and thought-provoking conversation that shows hypnosis isn’t about swinging watches or mind control - it’s about communication, focus and helping people create real change from within. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can be hypnotised, whether anyone can become a hypnotist or why your brain does things on autopilot without you even noticing, this episode is well worth a listen. More about Turan: Turan Mirza is a hypnotist and hypnotic change work practitioner at Feelgood Hypnosis. He helps people change unwanted thoughts, feelings and behaviours, including fears, phobias, smoking, nail biting, anxiety and confidence issues. With experience dating back to 2010, Turan uses hypnosis to help clients understand and change learned responses, with a focus on practical, positive change rather than labels or disorders. You can connect with Turan here: Website: https://www.feel-good.today/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/feelgoodhypnosis LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/turan-mirza/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FeelGoodHypnosis Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/feelgoodhypnosis/ X: https://x.com/FeelHypnosis About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wondered what it’s really like behind the scenes of a legendary ad campaign?  In this episode of The Engaging Marketeer, Darren Jamieson sits down with Kevin Chesters, the mastermind behind the iconic Moonwalking Shetland Pony for Three. Kevin uncovers his journey from rejection letters to top strategy roles at agencies like Saatchi & Saatchi and Ogilvy. He reveals the secrets of how creativity really works in advertising, and why it's not about being "clever," but being useful and persistent. It’s a candid conversation about the ups and downs of the advertising world and the importance of teamwork.  We also dive into some fascinating behind-the-scenes stories, like how the Moonwalking Pony ad came to life, and a surprising twist... Get ready for a high-energy episode packed with insights, laughs and some serious biscuit debates. Whether you’re in the ad industry or just curious about what it really takes to make a memorable campaign, you won’t want to miss this one! More about Kevin: Kevin Chesters is a highly experienced advertising strategist, author and trainer, having held senior strategy roles at major agencies including Saatchi & Saatchi, Wieden+Kennedy, Dentsu and Ogilvy. He was part of the team behind Three’s famous Moonwalking Shetland Pony campaign and now works directly with clients and agencies on brand strategy, creative thinking and training. He is also the co-author of The Creative Nudge. You can connect with Kevin here: Website: https://kevinchesters.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinchesters/ Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/author/B095HPMRMN/about Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kevinchesters/ X: https://x.com/hairychesters? About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if doing nothing is costing you money? 🤯 In this week’s episode of The Engaging Marketeer, Darren sits down with Tristan Hartey of Hartey Wealth Management to break down how money really works in the real world… and it isn't the way most people think. It starts with something simple. One pound. One year. One small gain. Then another. And another. Before you even realise it, those small increases are stacking, building, compounding into something far bigger than most people ever expect... 📈 This isn't about chasing quick wins or trying to double your money overnight. It's about understanding how consistent, steady growth works over time, and why the biggest mistake most people make is either waiting too long or stopping too early. This is the kind of conversation that changes how you look at money, business and even your own progress 🔥 More about Tristan: Tristan Hartey is a UK-based financial adviser and co-founder of Hartey Wealth Management, a firm focused on helping individuals and families build, protect, and manage their wealth. Known for his ability to simplify complex financial concepts, Tristan works closely with clients to create clear, practical plans around investments, pensions, and long-term financial security. His approach combines technical expertise with a strong emphasis on understanding each client’s personal goals and their emotional relationship with money. Alongside his advisory work, Tristan is an accomplished public speaker who has delivered talks to audiences of thousands across the UK and internationally, including events in the United States and China. He is passionate about improving financial education, particularly in the UK, and regularly speaks on topics such as compound interest, financial mindset, and long-term wealth building, with a focus on making financial advice more accessible and easier to understand. You can connect with Tristan here: Website: https://www.harteywm.co.uk/about/tristan-hartey/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tristan-hartey-71238752/ BNI: https://bni.co.uk/en-GB/memberdetails?encryptedMemberId=tdRGKxnfhrvqfJNgqBL4jg%3D%3D&name=Tristan+Hartey Business Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/HarteyWealthManagement Business Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harteywealthmanagement/ Business X: https://x.com/HarteyWM About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This week on The Engaging Marketeer, Darren chats with Joanne Finnerty of JF Recruitment about what it really takes to hire the right people and stand out when you’re looking for a new role. Jo shares how she got started in recruitment, why she still loves it more than 30 years later and what businesses so often get wrong when hiring. They also get into practical advice for candidates, from writing a stronger CV and preparing properly for interviews to making a better impression both online and in person. It’s a lively conversation packed with real experience, honest advice and plenty of insight for both employers and job seekers alike. Full episode available now.  More about Joanne: Joanne Finnerty is the founder of JF Recruitment, a recruitment agency with a passion for matching businesses with the right talent. With over 30 years of experience in the recruitment industry, Jo has built a reputation for her consultative approach and commitment to helping people find the right roles and businesses find the best-fit employees. Starting her career in temping, she worked her way up to running her own recruitment business, offering expertise in permanent recruitment and a strong focus on cultural fit. Jo is driven by a desire to make a difference, having helped numerous individuals transition to new careers and businesses thrive through effective staffing solutions. You can connect with Joanne here: Website: https://jfrecruitment.co.uk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannefinnerty/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/JoanneFinnertyRecruitment/?locale=en_GB Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joannefinnertyrecruitment/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@joannefinnerty0 About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Be honest… When was the last time you properly researched a company before buying from them? Not a big brand like Amazon or Apple - a business you'd never heard of before. Did you read every page? Go through all the reviews? Check their terms, their history, their team? Or did you just skim it… and go with your gut? That split-second decision is exactly what this episode of The Engaging Marketeer dives into. Darren breaks down what really drives buying decisions online, why most websites lose people without ever knowing it and what needs to change if you want more enquiries without just throwing more money at ads. If your traffic looks fine but your leads are not where they should be, this episode will hit home.  About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

"From the age of 13, I believed I was unworthy, undeserving of respect and that I had to accept the violence I was enduring." In today’s episode of The Engaging Marketeer, Larissa Astara Gray shares her powerful story of survival, strength and how she reclaimed her power in the wake of her deeply traumatic experiences - including breaking free from toxic cycles and recovering from a drug addiction. As the founder of Better Boundaries, Larissa now helps others heal and set healthier boundaries. Her journey offers valuable insights on the importance of self-love and healing from past experiences. If you've ever struggled with toxic relationships or finding your true worth, this episode will speak to you. About Larissa: Larissa Astara Gray is a passionate speaker, educator, and advocate for positive sex education, with a focus on empowering young people to navigate the challenges of modern relationships and sexuality. She is a leading voice on the impact of pornography on young minds and works tirelessly to raise awareness about the dangers of toxic sexual experiences. Larissa’s mission is to help young people understand healthy boundaries, consent, and self-worth, ensuring they are equipped to make informed choices about their sexual health and relationships. Having experienced and overcome her own difficult and toxic relationships, Larissa now uses her personal journey to guide and educate others. She has created Better Boundaries Online, an educational platform that provides resources for young people, parents, and educators to address the harmful effects of pornography and promote healthy sexual relationships. With over a decade of speaking experience, Larissa is a sought-after speaker, sharing her expertise in schools, universities, and various youth-focused settings. Her work is grounded in her belief that education is key to breaking cycles of trauma and ensuring that future generations can experience healthy, consensual, and fulfilling relationships. You can connect with Larissa here: Website: https://larissaastaragray.co.uk/ Better Boundaries Website: https://betterboundaries.co.uk/about/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/larissa-astara-gray-a98374202/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/larissaastaragray/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/larissa_astara_gray/ About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if one of the fastest ways to build real wealth isn’t starting from scratch… but stepping into something that already works? In this episode, Casey Ridley claims that, done right, franchising can be one of the greatest creators of wealth in the world. When you hear how it actually works behind the scenes, it starts to make a lot of sense... He and Darren get into what most people never see - that it's not just about systems and contracts. Successful franchising is about people, relationships and building something together that is bigger than you could ever do alone. From choosing the right franchise owners to creating a business that genuinely supports them, this is how franchises truly scale and succeed. If you've ever thought about running your own business, but felt stuck on where to start, or you want to grow faster without going it alone, this episode will open your eyes to what's possible. More about Casey: Casey Ridley is an entrepreneur and franchise leader based in Georgia, USA, and the driving force behind The Designery, a rapidly growing kitchen, bath, and closet franchise brand. He began his career by acquiring and transforming a small surplus construction business before scaling it into a multi-location operation and then franchising it nationally. A strong advocate of franchising as a pathway to entrepreneurship, Casey focuses on helping individuals build successful businesses through structured systems, training, and support. Under his leadership, The Designery has expanded to dozens of locations across the United States, with a model centred on scalable growth, strong franchisee relationships, and a blend of national branding with local marketing. He is also a franchisee himself, giving him a dual perspective on both sides of the model, and is known for his emphasis on execution, culture, and long-term business development. You can connect with Casey here:  Website: https://thedesignery.com/about/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/casey-ridley/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/caseyridley22/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/casey_ridley_/ About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most people don’t think about dementia care… until they have to. In this episode of The Engaging Marketeer, Paul Chambers shares how he went from a career in sales into the world of dementia care, and what that journey has taught him along the way. This is an eye-opening conversation about what really happens when dementia enters a family’s life. From recognising the early signs, to getting a diagnosis, to navigating care options and the reality of costs, the episode covers it all. It also breaks down what to look for in a care home, the mistakes people make when choosing one and the questions more families should be asking before it’s too late. More about Paul Paul Chambers is the Dementia and Wellbeing Lead at Willow Bank Residential Dementia Care Home in Pershore. After more than 30 years working in sales and business development, a serious car accident in 2019 prompted him to reassess his career and move into the care sector. He began working in domiciliary and live-in care before moving into a customer relations role within a care home, where he developed a strong interest in supporting families navigating dementia. Today, Paul focuses on improving the quality of life for people living with dementia, helping residents remain engaged, stimulated and supported while also guiding families through the challenges of diagnosis, care decisions and long-term support. He is particularly passionate about dementia awareness, cognitive stimulation approaches and ensuring residents continue to live with dignity and purpose throughout their care journey. You can connect with Paul here:  Website: https://bucklandcare.co.uk/the-care-homes/willow-bank-house/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulchambers2009/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PaulyCFC About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Want to start a business and make money straight away? Of course you do. But what if the real goal shouldn't be quick cash at all? In this episode of The Engaging Marketeer, Darren sits down with Cheryl White, founder of Apollo Care and a franchise consultant who has helped businesses across the UK turn their companies into successful franchise networks. During their conversation, Cheryl explains a reality many new business owners struggle with - you don't launch today and start signing clients tomorrow. That isn't how strong businesses are built. Instead, the focus is on building something far more valuable... a sustainable business that generates consistent revenue, grows over time and eventually becomes a saleable asset. If you've ever considered starting a business, buying into a franchise or scaling your company through franchising, this episode gives an exclusive look into how it works behind the scenes.  More about Cheryl: Cheryl White is the founder of Apollo Care and an experienced franchise consultant with more than 30 years in health and social care. After starting Apollo Care from scratch, she grew it into a successful care brand with franchises across the Northwest, Wales and the South. Alongside running Apollo, Cheryl helps other business owners franchise their companies, with a strong focus on sustainable growth, solid systems and long term value. She is known for her practical approach, high standards and commitment to building businesses that make a genuine difference. You can connect with Cheryl here: Website: https://www.apollocare.co.uk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherylwhitefranchising/ Facebook (Personal): https://www.facebook.com/cheryl.white.397/ Facebook (Business): https://www.facebook.com/apollocareservice Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cherylwhite_franchising/ About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

If your business can’t run without you, you don’t own a business. You have a job. Most owners start with the same vision - more income, freedom and time. Then, reality kicks in, and suddenly you’re buried in the day to day of chasing sales, answering everything yourself and wondering why growth still feels hard. In this episode, Rod and Darren unpack why so many businesses get stuck there and how to break out of it. This is about building something that has value beyond you - something that can grow, scale and eventually run without you being glued to it. If that’s the goal, this conversation is essential listening. More about Rod Rod Kuchta is a business coach who works with UK-based small business owners to help them regain control of their companies, their time, and their long-term goals. Drawing on a background in sales leadership and business development, he specialises in helping owners step out of the day-to-day operations of their businesses so they can focus on growth, strategy, and building teams that can operate independently. Through coaching, Rod helps business owners identify the gap between where their business is today and the vision they originally set out to achieve. His approach focuses on empowering teams, improving processes, strengthening leadership, and creating businesses that are sustainable, scalable, and ultimately valuable enough to sell or step away from. Rod works with entrepreneurs who want more freedom, more time, and a business that delivers the lifestyle and financial results they originally started out to create. You can connect with Rod here:  Website: https://entrepreneurscircle.org/coaches-directory/info/rod-kuchta/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rod-kuchta/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/p/Kuchta-Consulting-Ltd-100080935483410/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therodkuch/ About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Going viral is NOT a strategy! In today’s episode of The Engaging Marketeer, Bron Watson breaks down one of the biggest misconceptions in modern marketing: visibility without direction. Likes and connections aren’t a strategy, and neither is going viral. Bron explains why marketing only works when the long, medium and short game are aligned, and why every action has to answer one simple question: what are we doing next? Awareness on its own doesn’t pay the bills, and engagement on its own doesn’t grow a business. If it doesn’t lead somewhere meaningful, it’s just noise. This isn’t simply a theory, either - Bron built and continued to lead her business through a double cancer diagnosis. So when she talks about resilience, long games and strategy, she’s speaking from lived experience, not just marketing textbooks. If you’re serious about growing your business, building loyal fans and making your marketing drive revenue, this episode will challenge the way you think. More about Bron: Bron Watson is an Australian marketing strategist, business owner, and founder of The Social Coach and The Serenity Project. With decades of experience across corporate marketing, healthcare, and education, Bron combines commercial insight with deep personal resilience. After building a successful marketing business, Bron was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2017 and later with multiple myeloma in 2023. While continuing to run her business, she developed The Serenity Project, a framework that blends science, mindset, and practical resilience to help people navigate adversity. Bron now works with small business owners to build raving fans through strategic marketing, while also advocating for a more human, trauma-aware approach to healing and healthcare. You can connect with Bron here: The Social Coach: https://thesocialcoach.com.au/ The Serenity Project: https://serenityproject.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bronwatson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bronwatsonme/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bron_watson/ About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Ever wanted to build a new life in another country? In today's episode of The Engaging Marketeer, immigration expert Oleg Schindler reveals his experience of moving to Canada, and how others can follow the same path. This conversation goes far beyond visas and paperwork, however. Oleg and Darren dive into how immigration systems work behind the scenes, the political realities shaping decisions and why these conversations matter whether you run a business, lead a team or are simply curious about how the world is changing. More about Oleg Oleg Schindler is a licensed Canadian immigration consultant and the founder of two immigration practices based in Toronto and Ottawa. Originally from Ukraine, Oleg immigrated to Canada himself, giving him first-hand experience of the immigration process and the challenges faced by newcomers. He specialises in helping individuals and families secure permanent residence, work permits and study pathways, as well as guiding entrepreneurs through Canada’s Start-Up Visa programme. Alongside his consultancy work, Oleg runs a specialist marketing service for immigration law firms and regulated consultants, helping them grow their practices through industry-specific content strategies built on real-world testing. With a background in history and political science, Oleg combines practical immigration expertise with a deep understanding of policy, economics and global affairs, offering clients clear, strategic advice tailored to their individual circumstances. You can connect with Oleg here:  Website: https://schindlervisa.ca/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oleg.v.schindler/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/schindlervisa/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oleg-schindler/ About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We spend years studying for exams and learning job skills, yet no one teaches us how to manage the one thing that controls it all… In this episode, Harry Mansfield explains how your thoughts drive your emotions, habits, resilience and, ultimately, your results. It's the difference between giving in and pushing through - between staying stuck and stepping forward. Just like an elite athlete who crosses the finish line on mindset alone, we all rely on mental strength far more than we realise. If you want to understand why you think the way you do, and how to take back control, this episode is essential viewing. About Harry: Harry Mansfield is the founder of Awareness Key and is known as a mind power champion. She delivers practical training on how the mind works, helping people build resilience, improve performance, and manage difficult mental states. Her work focuses on proactive, preventative support, including tools for handling low mood, anxiety, addiction patterns, and suicidal thoughts, alongside mindset coaching for goals and achievement. She also speaks publicly and offers one-to-one discovery calls through Awareness Key. You can connect with Harry here: Website: https://awarenesskey.co.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/awarenesskey/?locale=en_GB Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theawarenesskey/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-mansfield-mindpower-champion-4924071b3/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCR9Goi7SK-Ps0XaAWodh9Ag About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Most businesses don’t struggle because they’re bad at what they do. They struggle because nobody finds them interesting enough to care! Today's episode of The Engaging Marketeer is all about what actually makes a business stand out when everyone sounds the same, looks the same and says the same safe things. From why so much marketing feels painfully boring, to how trust is really built and why relying on word of mouth alone is a dangerous game, this one pulls apart a lot of assumptions people have come to rely on. The full episode with Canadian marketing expert Chris O'Shea is now available to stream on all platforms. About Chris:  Chris O'Shea is a marketing and business advisor based in Canada, working closely with small and growing businesses to help them stand out, build demand, and grow sustainably. With a background spanning tech, marketing, and advisory work, Chris focuses on cutting through noise, challenging safe thinking, and helping business owners understand what actually drives attention, trust, and long-term value. His work sits at the intersection of strategy, marketing, and real-world business fundamentals, with a strong emphasis on clarity, relevance, and human connection. Chris regularly shares his thinking through LinkedIn content and public speaking, offering practical insight for business owners navigating change in an increasingly competitive and fast-moving landscape. You can connect with Chris here:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisoshea11/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ChrisOShea About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is one of those conversations that stays with you long after it ends... In this week’s podcast, Korina and Darren talk about clutter, comparison, social media pressure and the emotional weight we attach to our homes and belongings. This goes deeper than organisation tips or tidy rooms - Korina reveals how our environments affect our mental wellbeing, how comparison with others wears us down and why being intentional with what we keep is not about perfection, but about peace. If you’ve ever felt stuck, cluttered or stressed by your surroundings or by expectations that do not really fit your life, this episode is for you. More about Korina:  Korina Venn is a professional organiser and decluttering specialist who helps people create calmer, more balanced homes through practical and sustainable organisation. She takes a holistic approach that considers lifestyle, wellbeing, and personal circumstances rather than rigid rules or aesthetics. Through her work with Tidy by KV, Korina supports individuals and families to reduce overwhelm, regain control of their space, and build habits that last. You can connect with Korina here: Website: https://tidybykv.co.uk/ APDO: https://www.apdo.co.uk/member/korina-venn.html LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/korina-venn-karagiannakis/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/tidybykv/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TidyByKV/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tidybykv/ About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How many powerful ideas die because someone feels guilty for wanting more? In today’s episode of The Engaging Marketeer, Meg Calvin shares what she kept seeing at conferences - people pulling her aside, lowering their voices and almost confessing their book ideas like secrets. Not because their ideas were bad - but because they were wrapped in shame, fear and the belief that wanting to share their work, or earn from it, somehow made them greedy or wrong. This changed everything for ex-preacher Meg, and became her turning point for helping others. The work she does now is about trusting your instincts and putting meaningful ideas into the world - without guilt attached. If you have ever talked yourself out of sharing something that mattered to you, this episode will hit close to home.  More about Meg: Meg Calvin is a Kansas based author, coach, and book coach who helps entrepreneurs and leaders turn the ideas in their head into published books that build authority and grow their brand. After years in ministry, including preaching from the age of 13, Meg now supports clients through the full journey of writing, marketing, and selling their books, with a focus on clarity, confidence, and creative integrity. She is also an improv performer with the troupe Snark Side of the Moon, and brings that same presence, play, and sharp communication into her coaching and speaking. You can connect with Meg here:  Website: https://www.megcalvin.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/meggie.calvin Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heymegcalvin/?hl=en Audible: https://www.audible.in/author/Meggie-Lee-Calvin/B074L9XZ4B Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Meggie-Lee-Calvin/author/B074L9XZ4B About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What if the reason clients remember you has nothing to do with your website, ads or emails? Darren poses this simple question: What can you send, do or create that actually makes someone stop, smile and think about your business days or even weeks later? Today's episode of The Engaging Marketeer is all about building real relationships in business. You'll hear why physical gestures or unexpected interactions can create trust and loyalty, and how something as simple as a thank you can do the work your marketing can't. If you want clients or referral partners to remember you for all the right reasons, this episode will give you plenty to think about.  About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What happens when the career you worked so hard for no longer fits the life you are living? In this episode of The Engaging Marketeer, Ann Currie shares her story of leaving the legal profession after nearly 20 years when she hit burnout, and questioned everything she thought success was supposed to look like. She and Darren discuss the warning signs she ignored, the pressure of long hours and expectations and how a need for freedom led her to rethink work entirely - leaving behind the courtrooms for camper vans! If you have ever felt stuck in a career that looks good on paper but feels wrong day to day, this conversation will resonate. Discover practical insights, hard earned lessons and reassurance that it is possible to change direction without having everything figured out in advance. More about Ann: Ann Currie is a former solicitor who made a bold career shift in search of a happier, more balanced working life. After nearly 20 years in law, she left the profession following burnout and went on to build her own camper van rental business, using it as a practical way to learn marketing, websites, and social media from the ground up. Ann now works in marketing and communications, primarily supporting smaller businesses and events that do not have in-house teams or large budgets, bringing a strong focus on clarity, consistency, accessibility, and brand voice. You can connect with Ann here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ann-currie-a9b23b33/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ann.currie88/?hl=en Threads: https://www.threads.com/@ann.currie88/ About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

More leads will not fix a broken business. Spending money on SEO, ads or networking without a proper sales process is one of the fastest ways to burn through a marketing budget and see nothing in return. In today's episode of The Engaging Marketeer, discover why marketing should never come first, how slow or inconsistent follow ups are doing more damage than you think, and why so many businesses blame marketing when the real issue is happening after the enquiry comes in. If referrals have dried up, leads have gone cold and work feels unpredictable, this episode will make you rethink your sales process. About your host: Darren has worked within digital marketing since the last century, and was the first in-house web designer for video games retailer GAME in the UK, known as Electronics Boutique in the States. After co-founding his own agency, Engage Web, in 2009, Darren has worked with clients around the world, including Australia, Canada and the USA. iTunes: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/engaging-marketeer/id1612454837 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrenjamieson/ Engaging Marketeer: https://engagingmarketeer.com Engage Web: https://www.engageweb.co.ukSupport the show: https://engageweb.clubSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.