Bob Cargill's Marketing Show: Recent Episodes
Bob Cargill
Bob Cargill's podcast, "Bob Cargill's Marketing Show," is a series of commentaries and conversations on the trends, developments, topics and issues that are on the minds of marketers, advertisers, social media and PR professionals today.
Episode 212 - Email Marketing, Social Media and AI with Hank Hoffmeier
In this episode of Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, Hank Hoffmeier, a digital marketing infotainer, shares insights on email marketing, social media, AI tools and building a strong customer journey. Discover practical tips for small businesses and marketers to leverage technology and human skills effectively.
Key Topics
- The importance of email marketing and personalization
- Leveraging social media for brand awareness
- Using AI tools like Claude and Gemini in marketing
- Building customer trust and loyalty
- Creating a comprehensive marketing starter kit for small businesses
- The impact of AI on agency work and marketing jobs
- Strategies for local SEO and Google My Business optimization
- The customer journey from awareness to loyalty
Sound Bites* "I make marketing fun and successful" * "Email is portable and personal" * "Build trust through value and consistency"
Email Marketing Success Guide by Hank Hoffmeier
Episode 211 - The Importance of Social Media Communications with Barbara Cargill
Discover how personal stories, social media habits and authentic connection drive success and relationships. Join Bob Cargill and his wife Barbara in a candid conversation about life, social media and building an authentic presence—both personally and professionally.
Key Topics:* The role of social media in strengthening personal and business relationships * How celebrities and influencers connect with audiences through authentic content * The importance of sharing life stories and everyday moments online * The balance between privacy, authenticity, and visibility * The evolution of communication from traditional methods to modern digital platforms * How social media can be leveraged for community building, problem solving, and inspiration * The potential downsides versus benefits of social media addiction and overuse * Practical tips for businesses and individuals to maximize social media presence * The significance of being the main character in your own story
Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Bob Cargill’s Marketing Show
01:24 - Personal adventures and exploring Boston’s neighborhoods
02:24 - How and why Barbara started using social media
08:05 - The importance of authenticity and transparency on social platforms
10:01 - Using social media for personal expression and connection
12:11 - Building relationships through social media for personal and business success
13:57 - Following celebrities and influencers to stay connected
15:49 - The impact of social media on artists and creators like Noah Kahan
18:08 - The power of video and face-to-face connection online
20:00 - Social media's role in community and problem-solving
22:23 - Good stories of helping others through social media accounts
24:19 - Addressing the negative perceptions of social media
25:00 - The benefits of targeted advertising and the evolution of media platforms
33:00 - Ending thoughts: document your life and be the star of your story
Remember: Be the main character of your story. Share, connect, and document your journey authentically and purposefully. Whether personal or professional, your life is content worth sharing.
Episode 210 - David Lee Roth, Personal Branding, Marketing and More
In this episode of his podcast, Episode 210, Bob Cargill explores the parallels between David Lee Roth’s legendary stage presence and effective marketing principles. Join Bob as he draws actionable lessons from Roth’s career to boost your personal and business branding.
Key Topics:* The importance of personal branding and authenticity * Consistency and showing up over the long term * Building a body of work as a testament to success * The significance of engagement and audience connection * The value of high work ethic and energy * Being where your audience is through social media and events * Lifting others up to strengthen your brand * Maintaining a fun, approachable personality * The power of storytelling and personality * Believing in yourself and feeling like a rock star
Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Applying rock star lessons to marketing
00:34 - Bob’s recent activities: teaching and social media projects
01:31 - Lessons from a concert with David Lee Roth
02:27 - Teaching updates at Suffolk, Northeastern, and beyond
03:24 - Running marathons for charity, personal health insights
06:44 - Writing a second book: A Life in Motion
08:19 - Bob’s content creation background and eclectic life
11:13 - The legendary career of David Lee Roth and Van Halen
12:38 - Roth’s branding and personality as a core strength
19:23 - The importance of consistency and showing up in marketing
20:20 - Building a lasting brand through content and body of work
24:26 - The value of humor, approachability, and engagement
25:53 - Connecting with your audience on a personal level
26:48 - The significance of work ethic and energy
28:16 - Touring and being where your audience is
29:43 - The impact of personality, storytelling, and belief in oneself
30:42 - Celebrating David Lee Roth’s performance and lessons for branding
31:10 - Summary: The 10 marketing lessons from Roth
33:09 - Final thoughts: Feel like a rock star every day
34:08 - Closing: How to reach Bob and apply these lessons
Episode 209 - Personal Branding, Social Media and More with Alexa Bohling and Pat Cooper
In this episode of his podcast (Episode 209), Professor Bob Cargill from Northeastern University hosts a lively discussion on personal branding and social media with one of his students, Alexa Bohling, and Pat Cooper, Advertising Specialist at Pegasystems and VP Programming at AMA Tampa Bay. Together, they explore strategies for building a personal brand, leveraging social platforms like X and LinkedIn, and the importance of networking and content creation for career success. Key Topics* Personal branding importance in the digital age * Strategies for building a personal brand on social media * The role of content creation and consistency * Networking and relationships in career development
Key Takeaways* Build your personal brand early and consistently. * Leverage platforms like X and LinkedIn to increase visibility. * Create unique, non-commodity content to stand out. * Network actively and say yes to opportunities. * Use social media to showcase your expertise and connect with industry leaders.
Episode 208 - NotebookLM, 26.TRUE, the Marketing Road Show and More
In this episode of his podcast (Episode 208), Bob Cargill talks about how embracing authenticity, human qualities, and the intersection of digital and physical worlds can transform your relationships, brand, and career. Bob also shares insights from his long, diverse marketing journey, including recent experiences and the importance of genuine human connection.
Main Topics Covered:* Bob Cargill’s extensive marketing journey from 1983 to present * The power of authenticity, vulnerability, and trust in business * The concept of the business of being human: customer connections beyond products * How social media and AI are reshaping human interaction and marketing * Practical lessons from Bob’s recent marathon, event planning, and speaking engagements * The significance of combining digital habits with real-world human qualities
In this episode:* Bob introduces himself and reflects on his 40+ years of marketing experience * Highlights of his recent "book tour" and multiple podcast guest appearances * The success and lessons from his latest Bob Cargill’s Marketing Roadshow event * An inspiring story of a transit driver’s enthusiasm making a daily routine special * The importance of human touch in customer experience and branding * How social media can build loyal fans, not just customers, using personal branding * The seismic impact of social media and AI on human behavior over the past 20 years * Practical AI tools like Google Notebook and their role in education and content creation * The need to find a healthy balance between digital and physical human interaction * The call to action: be authentic, genuine, and human in all your interactions
Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and episode overview
00:20 - Bob shares his background and experience in marketing since 1983
01:44 - The evolution of marketing pre- and post-internet
02:42 - Key lessons from Bob’s career in digital marketing and social media
04:37 - Highlights from Bob’s recent marketing journey and teaching roles
08:25 - Marathon medallion and the power of perseverance and community
10:19 - Recap of Bob’s successful marketing event, including volunteers and sponsors
13:05 - The "business of being human" theme and storytelling about Elias, the transit driver
16:02 - The impact of personalized, enthusiastic service on human connection
20:28 - The importance of authentic personal branding and cultivating loyal fans
21:54 - The seismic changes social media and AI have brought to human society
23:19 - Finding a balance between digital and physical worlds for meaningful connections
24:48 - Emphasizing authenticity and vulnerability in business and life
25:41 - Restoring trust in a digital age through genuine human interaction
30:54 - The role of AI tools like Google Notebook in education and content review
34:55 - Acknowledgments for volunteers and the success of the marketing event
37:22 - Final thoughts: how to thrive by combining human qualities with technology
Resources & Links:* Bob Cargill's book "20 Jobs, 20 Lessons: A Long, Strange Career in Marketing from Junk Mail to Social Media" * Google Notebook & Language Models * Boom Band for personal dossiers and branding * Suffolk University * Northeastern University * AMA Boston * Gianna Laura Salazar (Podcast: The Lights On) * Jeff Taylor (Boom Band founder & keynote speaker)
Connect with Bob Cargill:* LinkedIn * X (Twitter) * Instagram * TikTok * Facebook
Episode 207 - The Business of Being Human, Teaching, Running and More
In this episode of his podcast (Episode 207), Bob Cargill shares updates on his personal and professional life, discusses the upcoming Bob Cargill's Marketing Road Show, and explores the importance of authenticity, trust, and the human touch in marketing in the age of AI and social media.
Key Topics
The importance of authenticity and trust in marketing
The upcoming Bob Cargill's Marketing Road Show details and goals
The role of social media and personal branding in the post-trust era
Takeaways
Authenticity and human touch are critical in marketing today.
Building trust requires transparency, integrity, and genuine connection.
The upcoming marketing roadshow will focus on the theme 'The Business of Being Human.'
Main character syndrome encourages sharing your story to build your personal brand.
Technology and social media have expanded our definition of friendship and connection.
Sound Bites
"Show your human side in marketing"
"Make others feel like a rock star"
"You are a rock star"
Episode 206 - Higher Ed, Career Development, Leadership, AI and More with Dr. Suela Papagelis
In this engaging conversation, Bob Cargill speaks with Dr. Suela Papagelis about her educational journey, teaching philosophy, and the importance of creating a safe learning environment. They discuss the significance of competing with oneself, embracing change, and the role of technology and AI in education. Dr. Papagelis shares her insights on critical thinking, cultural awareness, and the importance of passion in career choices, ultimately emphasizing the need for personal growth and motivation in both teaching and learning.
Sound bites
Sound Bites
"Compete with yourself, not others."
"Embrace change to avoid stagnation."
"Mistakes are lessons, not failures."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background
02:51 Educational Journey and Teaching Philosophy
05:52 Ambition and Work Ethic
08:42 Competing with Yourself
11:27 Creating a Safe Learning Environment
14:32 The Importance of Passion and Career Choices
17:50 Embracing Change and Overcoming Stagnation
20:31 The Role of Technology in Education
23:40 Critical Thinking and AI in Learning
26:40 Cultural Awareness and Teamwork
29:29 The Future of AI and Education
32:33 Final Thoughts and Consulting Business
Episode 205 - AI, Soft Business Skills, Social Media, Branding and More
In this episode of Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, Bob reflects on his journey in marketing and teaching, expresses gratitude for veterans, and emphasizes the importance of networking and personal branding in today's digital age. He discusses the role of AI in content creation, the significance of soft skills in the workplace, and shares insights from his experiences with the American Marketing Association Boston. Bob also touches on his passion for running and how it serves as a therapeutic outlet for him. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to connect with him and leverage their networks.
Takeaways
Bob expresses gratitude for veterans on Veterans Day.
Teaching has become a significant part of Bob's career.
Networking is crucial for professional success.
Personal branding is essential in the digital age.
AI can assist in content creation but should not replace personal touch.
Running serves as a therapeutic outlet for Bob.
Soft skills are increasingly important in the AI era.
Bob encourages listeners to build their networks both online and offline.
Creating content helps individuals stand out in a crowded market.
Bob is available for mentorship and support.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Gratitude for Veterans
03:08 Bob's Journey in Marketing and Teaching
05:57 The Importance of Networking and AMA Boston
09:12 Building a Personal Brand Online
11:59 The Role of AI in Content Creation
15:13 Running as a Personal Outlet
17:58 The Importance of Soft Skills in the AI Era
29:59 Conclusion and Call to Action
Conclusion
Bob Cargill's Marketing Show episode 205 offers a wealth of wisdom for anyone looking to enhance their marketing journey. From the significance of networking to the power of personal branding, Bob provides actionable insights rooted in his extensive experience. Remember, success is not just about what you know but also about who you know and how you present yourself to the world. Stay connected, keep creating, and embrace the challenges ahead.
Episode 204 - Navigating Your Own Path to Success with Kashish Jain In this engaging conversation, Bob Cargill and Kashish Jain explore various themes surrounding personal growth, the challenges of navigating unconventional career paths, and the importance of community building. They discuss the significance of vulnerability in self-expression, the complexities of conflict resolution, and the joy of teaching and mentorship. The dialogue emphasizes the subjective nature of success and the shared human experience, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique journeys while supporting one another. Takeaways* Believe in yourself despite criticism. * Embrace vulnerability as a strength. * Community building happens organically through authenticity. * Conflict resolution requires empathy and understanding. * Teaching is a fulfilling responsibility that inspires growth. * Personal growth is a lifelong journey. * Success is subjective and varies for everyone. * Navigating unconventional paths can lead to unique opportunities. * Sales skills are essential in all aspects of life. * We are all more similar than we think.
Sound Bites* "We can help each other." * "I love teaching." * "We are who we are."
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Collaboration02:55 Navigating Unconventional Paths05:47 Overcoming Criticism and Embracing Vulnerability09:06 Building Community and Authenticity12:00 Conflict Resolution and Diplomacy14:50 The Joy of Teaching and Mentorship17:39 Reflections on Personal Growth and Future Aspirations
Episode 203 - Working at the Intersection of Passion and Practicality with Kashish Jain In this engaging conversation, Bob Cargill and Kashish Jain explore the journey of personal branding, the importance of finding purpose, and the balance between monetization and passion. They discuss the significance of solving problems in the marketplace and the necessity of unlearning outdated beliefs to foster growth. The dialogue emphasizes the value of supporting one another and recognizing individual journeys in a capitalist world.
Takeaways
Your journey matters and sharing it is important.
Finding purpose is essential in a capitalist world.
Monetization should align with your passions.
It's crucial to solve problems to succeed financially.
Unlearning outdated beliefs is part of personal growth.
Every day presents a new opportunity to learn.
Support from others can enhance your journey.
Balancing passion with practicality is key.
Recognizing the intersection of interests leads to fulfillment.
Courage is needed to openly discuss financial goals.
Sound Bites
"Your journey matters."
"Every day is a new day."
"You are a rock star."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Personal Branding
06:11 Finding Purpose and Monetization
11:01 The Importance of Problem Solving
16:14 Learning, Unlearning, and Personal Growth
Episode 202 - Lateral Thinking, Magical Moments and Spellbinding Marketing with Michael Granoff
In this episode of Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, Episode 202, we delve into the fascinating intersection of magic and marketing with the talented magician and marketer, Michael Granoff.
Discover how magic tricks can inspire innovative marketing strategies and creative thinking.
Host, Bob Cargill, introduces the episode and his guest, Michael Granoff, a seasoned marketer and magician. Discussion on the importance of creativity and innovation in marketing.
Michael shares his career path from the printing industry to marketing. Insights into his transition from a family business to corporate marketing roles. Exploration of how magic tricks can inspire creative thinking in marketing.
Introduction to "Slight of Brand," a workshop that uses magic as a metaphor for marketing strategies.
Discussion on lateral thinking and its application in brainstorming sessions.
How magicians use divergent thinking to create impactful illusions.
Emphasis on maintaining creativity and strategy in the age of AI.
The importance of keeping the human touch in marketing processes.
The significance of networking in building a successful marketing career.
Michael's insights on personal branding and its impact on professional growth.
Episode 201 - Taking Selfies, Going Live, Branding, Teaching and More
In this episode of "Bob Cargill's Marketing Show," Bob shares insights on various topics related to marketing, personal branding, and networking.
He begins by acknowledging the contributions of Emily Cocuzzo as the outgoing president of the American Marketing Association Boston chapter and welcomes Jeff DeSocio as the new president.
Bob discusses his passion for teaching, highlighting his work at Northeastern College of Professional Studies and his involvement in developing a new social media course.
He emphasizes the importance of creating content and being visible on social media to build trust and professional relationships.
Bob also shares his experiences speaking at conferences like DigiMarCon and his upcoming engagement at Bentley College, where he plans to inspire high school students about personal branding.
He reflects on his career journey, documented in his book "20 Jobs, 20 Lessons," and encourages others to embrace opportunities and network actively.
The episode includes practical advice on using social media effectively, such as taking selfies and sharing them to engage audiences.
Bob provides examples of successful branding and customer experiences from local businesses like Rustic Marlin and the W Hotel in Boston. He concludes by reiterating the secret to social media success: being conspicuous in your presence and consistently engaging with your audience.
Episode 200 - Teaching, AI, Social Media and Rockstars
In this 200th episode of Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, Bob reflects on his journey in marketing and podcasting, emphasizing the importance of social media, personal branding, and storytelling. He shares insights on building trust, embracing technology like AI, and the significance of human qualities in a digital world. Bob also discusses his experiences with running marathons, the joy of teaching and the empowering mindset of feeling like a rock star. Takeaways* This is the 200th episode of Bob Cargill's marketing show. * Social media is an extension of our lives. * Everyone can be a publisher. * A personal story isn't just about where you've been. * Everybody is a personal brand. * You never know how far you can go until you try. * I love, love, love teaching. * You need to partner with AI. * Human qualities matter more than ever. * Believe in yourself and feel like a rock star.
Sound Bites* "Social media is an extension of our lives." * "Everyone can be a publisher." * "Everybody is a personal brand." * "I love, love, love teaching." * "You need to partner with AI." * "Human qualities matter more than ever."
Chapters00:00Celebrating Milestones: The 200th Episode02:57The Power of Social Media and Personal Branding05:47Lessons from Life: Trust and Authenticity09:07Embracing Technology: AI and Social Media12:00Running and Resilience: Lessons from the Boston Marathon16:45Teaching and Inspiring the Next Generation20:04The Role of AI in Modern Communication22:55Human Qualities in a Digital World27:52Empowering Others: The Rock Star Mindset
Episode 199 - Why You Should Make Social Media a Priority
A new fire chief just took the helm in town, and one of his top priorities is to strengthen the department's social media presence. Now that got my attention, not to mention my kudos and props.
And yes, if a fire chief understands the power of social media, why shouldn’t every business, brand, company and organization?
Why shouldn't everybody realize the importance of the connections that are waiting there to be made online?
People aren’t looking for the evening news or flipping through the paper anymore. They’re scrolling, clicking, sharing and engaging on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and the like. That is where breaking news happens. That is where trust is built. That is how you stay connected with the people who matter most.
Social media isn’t optional in today's day and age, it’s essential. It's the next best thing to being there in person for communications and community. It’s your direct line to your friends and your family, the clients and customers, even complete strangers. It's where you'll find the bulk of your audience, no matter who they are, on a regular basis, where you'll find countless opportunities to inform, inspire, engage and enlighten them in real time.
So don't be out of sight and mind.
Take a page from this fire chief’s playbook - show up on social media and share your messages with the public.
Be conspicuous in your presence day in and day out where your communications can catch fire and spark action - if and when desired, necessary, etc. - among your constituents.
Episode 198 - Talking to Three Suffolk University Students about Marketing, Social Media and More
In a course I teach at Suffolk University in Boston, we recorded this podcast episode in the classroom recently.
It was a great experiential learning experience in marketing, social media, public speaking, personal branding and thought leadership.
Thanks to wicked smart, ridiculously awesome students, Syria Ricciu (Trustee Ambassador and President of Suffolk's Health and Careers Club), Michael Klier (VP of of Suffolk's Finance and Investing Club) and Zena Fitzgerald (CMO of Suffolk's Finance and Investing Club) for being my guests on the show. Rockstars, all.
Episode 197 - Talking to My Fisher College Students about Inbound Marketing
Wicked smart. Ridiculously awesome. Rockstars.
That’s how I’d describe my inbound marketing students at Fisher College in Boston who joined me in the recording studio today. What an epic experience.
With Ryan Sheehan working the control room like a pro and Fadi Dhahib, Ethan Nguyen, Aswin Chummasorn, Kennie Herrera and Julian Lamparelli behind the mics with me - cameras rolling - we tackled everything in this podcast from social media to content marketing, customer journeys to personas.
And just when I thought it couldn’t get any better, these students shared their own personal stories and what they love so much about their educational experience here at Fisher.
And here’s the best part - their classmates were in the audience, live, cheering us on. The energy in the room was electric. Their support, their enthusiasm - it was everything.
I’ve gotta say… I was blown away. Their insights. Their energy. Their passion. These students get it. They’re not just the future of marketing, they're the future of business, they're the future, period. And they’re already making waves. I couldn’t be more proud of them.
Applause, applause. Yes, absolutely, rockstars, every single one of them.
Episode 196 - Conversational Marketing, Podcasting and More with Casey Cheshire
In the latest episode of my podcast, Episode Number 196, I talk to Casey Cheshire, Podcast Producer and Chief Evangelist at Ringmaster, a Nashua, New Hampshire-based company that produces "branded podcasts for B2B companies that create authentic conversations that generate irresistible content." Casey and I have a ridiculously awesome conversation in the Fisher College (Boston) podcast studio (thanks to college student and podcast producer, Ryan Sheehan) about everything from marketing automation to the importance of in-person, face-to-face conversations with your clients and prospects, from climbing mountains to running marathons and much more.
Episode 195 - The World Revolves Around You
I couldn't help but be incredibly intrigued by an ad on TV I saw recently that boldly declared, "The world revolves around you."
This ad caught my undivided attention because, growing up, when I was just a kid, I heard something very different: "The world doesn’t revolve around you."
Those words that I heard when I was knee high to a grasshopper left a mark - they made me feel small, unimportant, insignificant and disconnected.
But these words? This ad? It offers something powerful - a message that speaks to the heart. It reminds us that feeling valued can change everything in our lives. In marketing, in advertising, on social media, in life itself, the greatest gift you can give someone is the belief that they really matter, that they’re being seen and heard. When people feel that the world revolves around them - even for a split second - it lifts their spirits, it makes them smile, it gives them hope. It fills them with confidence, self-worth and the courage to take on life's many difficult challenges.
Making people feel good about themselves is not just good for business, it’s good for peace, love and understanding in all walks of our professional and personal lives.
So yes, the world revolves around you. It revolves around me. It revolves around each and every one of us.
When we share such a ridiculously awesome sentiment with others - and feel it in our own hearts and souls, too - we create a world where people are empowered, where we continue to lift each other higher, where we live, work and play happily ever after.
Episode 194 - Teaching, Running, ElevenLabs, Rustic Marlin and More
In this episode of my podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, I catch you up on some of what I've been doing the last few months, including teaching marketing at two universities in Boston, hosting the Bob Cargill's Marketing Road Show conference in Boston in early November, using AI (ElevenLabs) to record an audio version of my book, Twenty Jobs, Twenty Lessons - a Long, Strange Career in Marketing, from Junk Mail to Social Media and more. I also share a couple of good marketing-related stories, one about seeing this ridiculously awesome "selfie station" in front of a store, Rustic Marlin, at Faneuil Hall Marketplace, and another about an ad I heard recently that inspired me with the words, "The World Revolves Around You."
Episode 193 - Talking to My Suffolk University Students about the Foundations of Business
In this episode of my podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, I ask a few of my students (Tommy, Evan and Mona) in the course I teach at Suffolk University - Business Foundations - about the importance of social media and what we've learned in class about AI this semester.
Episode 192 - Talking about Advertising Week New York and More with Manisha Patro
In the latest episode of my podcast, Episode Number 192, I talk to Manisha Patro, a recent Pace University Pace University - Lubin School of Business graduate about what she took away from her attendance recently at Advertising Week New York 2024 #AWNewYork24.
She said she noticed that there was quite a bit of focus on marketing to Gen Z as well as the emergence and use of AI.
We had a few really good laughs during our conversation, too.
Manisha is a wicked smart, ridiculously awesome marketing analytics and CRM professional at the beginning of her journey in the business world with an incredibly bright future ahead of her.
Listen. Learn. Enjoy.
P.S. You can find and follow Manisha Patro on LinkedIn here... https://www.linkedin.com/in/manishapatro103/
Episode 191 - Capture the Moments and Memories for Your Customers and Constituents
Capture the moments. Capture the memories.
If you're a business or brand, that's what you want to do on behalf of your customers and constituents, those who are so enamored with your products and services that they would love to capture their experiences with them on film.
So you do it for them.
Set up a selfie station. Install a camera. Make it easy for your fans to immortalize themselves in social media history.
They'll have the documentation of their time with you. You'll have the advertising and promotion.
You record it. They share it.
Whether we're talking about riding a roller coaster or dining out at a fine restaurant, attending a university or a conference, taking in the theater or a ballgame, going to the grocery store or the beach...wherever people congregate, whatever they like to do, in this day and age, if it's not on social media, it didn't really happen. Right?
So help make it really happen. Help people capture those really special moments and memories in their lives to share with the world on their social media feeds.
They'll thank you for it, even pay you for it. You'll get the word out about your business or brand to a much bigger audience.
It's user-generated content (UGC) for a win-win if ever there was one, only you gave your fans the idea, you did it for them.
Episode 190 - Nike's Great, New Ad, "Winning Isn't for Everyone"
Am I a bad person?
That's the question that Willem Dafoe, as narrator, asks in the great, new Nike ad entitled, "Winning Isn't for Everyone." Am I a bad person?
In this ad, he's asking that question on behalf of a team of superstar athletes, incredible, iconic personal brands in the world of sports like LeBron James, Serena Williams and others.
This is a great ad because of its storytelling and filmmaking, because it is both inspirational and motivational.
This ad is an example, if you ask me, of advertising without advertising, of commanding your attention before you even realize it's all about Nike, not the athletes.
"Winning Isn't for Everyone," of course, but it is for those who are willing and able to make that commitment to excellence.
And this ad is excellent. This ad is, yes, a winning ad.
Episode 189 - AMA Boston, Noah Kahan, the Presidential Race, AI, the New Nike Ad and More
In this episode of my podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, I talk about everything from the new Nike ad, "Winning Isn't For Everyone," to Noah Kahan's Fenway Park (Boston, MA) concerts being livestreamed by TourGigs, the end of my role as president of the American Marketing Association's Boston chapter to my plans for my own live, in-person marketing conference (thanks to Helen and Claudia) in the fall and much more.
Episode 188 - Just Be Yourself on Social Media
Do members of Gen Z have a split personality due to social media?
I read something like that somewhere recently, that their personas on social media may not be an exact match of who they are in real life (IRL).
They're only revealing a certain side of themselves there as opposed to their complete selves, which can cause them a great deal of stress.
I would think that could be an issue for anyone of any age who spends a lot of time on Instagram, Facebook, X, LinkedIn, TikTok and the like.
But it doesn't have to be that way.
Your existence on social media should be an extension of who you are IRL.
That's your true self, your whole self, your original self - within reason, of course.
That's more authentic, transparent, credible and trustworthy, anyway.
That's easier on everybody as well.
Nobody has to pretend. Nobody has to pose.
Others can get to know the real you whether you're online or off.
You don't have to put on airs in any way, shape or form. You just have to keep it real.
Episode 187 - AMA Boston, Teaching Social Media, Gen Z, Wendy's and More
In this episode of my podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show (recorded live on Instagram), I talk about several different news stories having to do with marketing and social media and conclude with a pep talk to my audience about the importance of feeling like a rock star.
Episode 186 - Social Media is a Level Playing Field
Social media is a level playing field on which anyone can win.
Sure, it helps if you're a big brand or celebrity, but theoretically, anyone can make a big splash here, there or anywhere else on social media and attract a large audience.
Share your journey and document your day. Take people behind the scenes. Take them along for the ride.
Believe that others are interested in what you have to say, what you have to show, what you have to share, etc. They really do want to see you and hear from you, day in and day out. That's human nature.
People are curious. People care more than you may realize about your daily routine, your highlights and milestones, your victories and defeats.
You are the star of your own show on social media.
Step into the spotlight. The floor is yours.
Rise to the occasion. Take advantage of the opportunity. Get after it now. #SocialMedia #Branding #PersonalBranding #Marketing
Episode 185 - AMA Boston, Leadership, Marketing, Social Media and More with Emilee Cocuzzo
In this episode of my podcast, I talk to Emilee Cocuzzo, Service Delivery Lead at Valere, Adjunct Professor at Clark University and President-Elect at AMA Boston. She tell us about her career journey up to this point, what it's like to serve on the board of directors of the American Marketing Association's Boston chapter, what leadership looks like to her, what she honestly thinks about social media and much more.
About Emilee Cocuzzo
Service Delivery Lead at Valere leading AI and digital transformation work and projects. Previously a senior consultant at Booz Allen working on cyber security, enterprise data management, IT and digital modernization, DE&I strategy, and financial management projects. Adjunct professor at Clark University teaching about entrepreneurship. President-Elect at AMA Boston.
Episode 184 - How Can Your Products and Services Bring People Together?
Brands and businesses, marketers and advertisers, how can your products and services bring people together?
That's the premise behind a ridiculously awesome ad I saw recently for Australian Lamb called the Generation Gap, "the impassable chasm that's divided Australia."
It's a very entertaining and enjoyable spot, if you ask me, fascinatingly and humorously alluding to all the obvious differences between generations except for the fact that they all like lamb.
It's a compelling and captivating short story with a very happy ending.
Apparently there's no difference of opinion about lamb.
As everybody comes together over lamb in this campaign, how can you follow the same recipe for success, illustrating that what you have to offer is universally, unanimously even, acclaimed?
Episode 183 - Personal Branding: Encourage People to Take Pictures of You
A great way of getting the word out about what you have to offer your community is to have someone else do it for you.
That's one reason why it's so easy for celebrities to grow their personal brands. Everywhere they go, their pictures are taken and shared with the world. They have no privacy. And in most cases that's okay with them. That's life in the public eye. That's free publicity.
In rare instances, however - certain live performances such as the two I saw recently, by Dane Cook, the comedian, and Jethro Tull, the rock band - photographs and video recordings are forbidden. They don't like the distraction, for one thing. They also want complete control of their intellectual property.
Not to mention...they're so ridiculously successful, they can afford to take that position.
Most of us, though, not so much.
We don't want to be like them if we're in marketing, advertising and sales of any sort. We don't want to be like them if we want the opportunity to reach an exponentially larger audience. We don't want to be like them if we want our followers, friends and fans to spread the word about us to their own respective social media networks, making it possible for us to get in front of people we would never have the chance to connect with otherwise.
We want to increase our chances of going viral and extending the reach of the messages we share with our constituents and stakeholders.
If we care at all about personal branding, we don't just want to allow people to take pictures of us, we want to encourage it.
Episode 182 - Are You a Double Threat on Social Media?
It's one thing to have the skills to navigate your way around the digital world, to utilize social media effectively behind the scenes.
It's another thing - and it's a big thing, too - to be able to be in front of the camera, behind the microphone, to be a content creator as a personal brand, either representing yourself as an individual or on behalf of your employer, a brand, business, etc.
That's a double threat.
Yes, if you can do both, if you can be both behind the scenes and in front of the camera, you would be considered a double threat, an invaluable asset to the organization for which you work.
So I encourage all my students, all my clients to have both the skills to manage social media, to leverage digital technologies behind the scenes, as well as the confidence and talent to put yourself in front of the camera and behind the microphone.
All that will make you especially invaluable during the course of your career as both a personal brand and employee. All that will be a win-win. #SocialMedia #PersonalBranding #Marketing #Success
Episode 181 - The Continuation of My Teaching Journey, AMA Boston, the Domino's Free Pizza Campaign, Coach Prime and More
In this episode of my podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, I talk about everything from the personal branding power of University of Colorado Boulder football coach Deion Sanders (also known as Coach Prime) to the great strategy and creativity behind Domino's recent Free Emergency Pizza campaign, from my work as a professor of marketing and social media to my role as president of the American Marketing Association's Boston chapter.
Episode 180 - Answering Questions about Social Media from Northeastern University Grad Students
In this episode of my podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, I take a few great questions from the wicked smart, ridiculously awesome students in the course on social media I teach at Northeastern University. We talk about how the emergence of AI (Artificial Intelligence) has changed how we create content today, how I personally am able to effectively consume a seemingly endless stream of online information and more. Listen. Enjoy. Thanks.
Episode 179 - Teaching Marketing, Social Media, Business and Other Things on My Mind
In this episode of my podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, I talk about how much I enjoy my role as an adjunct professor at three outstanding universities in Boston this fall (2023), teaching marketing, social media and business. Need some insight and inspiration about personal branding, thought leadership and thriving, not just surviving in this digital era day and age? This episode's for you. Do you know what it means to reach for the brass ring? I also talk about what that has meant to my career so far - and what it can mean to yours. Who's with me? I hope you are.
Episode 178 - A Great Football Coach, A Great Personal Brand
Deion Sanders.
Coach Prime.
Great football player and baseball player back in the day. And now he's a great head college football coach at the University of Colorado Boulder.
He's a great personal brand, too.
He's not afraid to speak freely and frequently. He's always in the headlines, always on social media, always in the news, always on our minds. And because he's such a strong personal brand, his words carry weight.
He has a huge impact on all of those around him.
Me, you, all of us can be like Coach Prime.
We just have to speak up, put ourselves in front of the camera, share our knowledge and expertise with our followers and fans, and be conspicuous in our presence whatever we do, wherever we go.
That's how to be like Deion Sanders.
That's how to have a winning personal brand.
Episode 177 - Personal Branding, Marketing Trends, Social Media and More
In this episode of my podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, I talk about a number of timely, relevant topics and issues related to social media and marketing - from AMA Boston (https://www.amaboston.org/) to my book (Twenty Jobs, Twenty Lessons - a Long, Strange Journey in Marketing, from Junk Mail to Social Media), personal branding to marketing trends (for instance, pumpkin spice-flavored coffee in the fall here in New England) and more. Enjoy!
Episode 176 - Let Go of the Message
Many people, for personal and professional reasons, are afraid of letting go of the message on social media.
Yet ironically, if they shared what they had to say loosely and liberally on social media, chances are the message - THEIR message - would reach more people, people they might not have reached otherwise.
So letting go of the message can be a good thing on social media because you can let others respond to that message, interact with that message, help you spread that message further, faster to many more people.
You can be afraid of letting go of the message, but that means your message has very little impact if any at all.
On the other hand, if you let go of that message - by the way, a message just like this one of mine - on social media, you just may see exponential growth in terms of friendships, fans, connections and customers, whatever it is that you would like to have more of on social media.
All of that - and, yes, more - could be yours if you were just willing and able to let go of the message.
Episode 175 - Lift Others Up on Social Media
I saw Dennis Yu of BlitzMetrics speak recently at the DigiMarCon conference in Boston. He gave a ridiculously awesome presentation...during which he said something that meant so much to me that I shared it with my students in class and I talk about it in this episode of my podcast. And that was something like...your personal brand is a reflection of how you pick others up. So share other people's content, like their content, engage with their content. Give them props, kudos and congrats. The more you do that on social media, the more likely those people will be to reciprocate. It's such a positive reflection on you when you help others. And the likelihood is that over time, you'll earn their trust, respect and friendship. Mutually beneficial relationships will ensue.
Episode 174 - Threads, AI, Personal Branding, Church and More
In this episode of my podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, I talk about a number of timely, relevant topics and issues related to social media and marketing.
I talk about the new app, Threads, the fastest growing app in history, which I am not as enamored with - at least not yet - as you might imagine. I also address the fact that AI has taken the world by storm in the last few months, the importance of personal branding, the Franklin United Methodist Church's successful usage of social media and more.
Episode 173 - Teaching, PR, Inspirational Stories and More with Kim Ring
In this episode of my podcast, I talk to Kimberley Ring about her very inspirational career journey from founding her own PR agency, Ring Communications, over 15 years ago to her unbridled passion for teaching today as a faculty member at Suffolk University.
About Kimberley Ring Allen
Kimberley Ring is the founder of Ring Communications - one of the fastest growing integrated marketing firms in Boston. She is known as one of the leading public relations professionals and social media influencers in Boston and is known for her work with high profile brands in the lifestyle, hospitality, and sports industries. A self-made publicist and business owner that has built a successful career around joining “old school ethics” with “new school techniques,” she has been delivering creative, innovative and successful marketing, public relations and social media campaigns for almost twenty years. She founded her own consultancy in 2007 and has built the business to represent an impressive client roster that includes national and global brands including the UFC, ISlide, Actress Eliza Dushku, MLB pitcher Pedro Martinez, Chef Michael Schlow, the Gronkowski brothers and many, many more. In addition to growing her business and leading her team of up and coming marketing stars, she serves as a professor at Suffolk University in Boston, where she teaches various courses on marketing.
Episode 172 - The Boston Marathon, a Megaphone, Weather Forecasts and More
In this episode of my podcast, I talk about a number of topics related to social media and marketing. Using the finish line of the Boston Marathon as an example, I point out the importance of creating social media places for your audience members to take pictures for sharing online. I compare using social media to speaking with a megaphone. Then there are the weather forecasts I see being recorded by TV meteorologists especially for social media, which I think is a great trend.
Thanks for tuning in to another informational and insightful episode of Bob Cargill's Marketing Show.
Episode 171 - The Importance of Having a Personal Brand
People are always questioning the importance of having a personal brand.
Why do I have to be on social media on a regular basis?
Why do I have to share content about myself and what's going on in my my personal life and professional lives?
I don't want to be a public figure. I just want to keep things to myself.
Well, hey, that's okay.
That's your choice, that's your prerogative.
But if you're using social media and you'd like more attention for both personal and professional reasons, then share who you are, ALL of who you are, the best and the worst, the ups and the downs, the good and the bad (within reason, of course😊).
Because the more authentic, the more genuine, the more transparent you are, the more likely people will be to say, hey, I can relate. I like this individual. And over time, hey, I respect this individual. They're just like me. They're going through the same stuff.
And then over time, that affection, if you will, that affinity for you turns into respect and turns into - when it comes time, when the opportunity arises - it turns into business.
Yup, a win-win, mutually-beneficial relationship arises all because you decided to jump on social media and share all of who you are as an individual, personally and professionally.
That's the importance of being on social media day in and day out, of being conspicuous, ubiquitous in your presence on social media, of having a strong personal brand.
Episode 170 - Selling Ice Cream, Attending Church, Teaching Marketing and More
In this episode of my podcast, I talk about everything from an autobody shop in Florida to a dog walker in Boston, driving an ice cream a long time ago to running the Boston Marathon next month, attending church in my hometown to teaching college students in Boston. Listen in to a good half hour of stories, lessons, tips and updates. Enjoy.
Episode 169 - Making It a Pleasure, Not a Pain, for Your Customers and Clients
I was on the MBTA Commuter Rail Green Line recently heading home from work from Boston's Government Center station to Woodland in Newton.
I've taken this route home, this train, the MBTA's Green Line, a lot, but never had I heard the driver of the train announcing the stops the way this particular driver was announcing them.
She had a ridiculously awesome personality, a tone of voice that was making me feel like we were on a happy, celebratory tour of all the stops along the route of our luxury ride home, like those stops actually meant something to us as commuters about to call it a day.
She wasn't reciting those stops in a listless, monotone voice like it was just another part of her job. Quite the contrary. She was enthusiastic. She was passionate. She was really giving it her all.
She just had a positive, upbeat tone in her announcements that made me feel good about riding the T, that lifted my spirits after a long, hard day at work. And I told her so when I disembarked. And I tweeted about it. And now I've recorded a podcast episode about it.
What can other businesses and brands learn from the driver of that train that night?
Give your customers and clients an extraordinary experience, a pleasant surprise. Give them the experience of their lifetimes. When they're engaging in one way, shape or form with your products and services, give them your all.
You want to leave your constituents feeling good about themselves and their decision to engage with you, one way or another. The better they feel while they're engaging with whatever it is you have to offer them, the more likely they'll be to think highly of you, not to mention to spread the word about how favorably impressed they are with your products and services.
A little enthusiasm on the job can go a long way towards making it a pleasure, not a pain, for the members of your audience to do business with you.
Episode 168 - Agency Life, Qualitative Research, Walking, Flying and More with Casey Mohan
In this episode of my podcast, I talk to Casey Mohan-Schulz, VP, Qualitative Insights & Strategy at CMB, a full-service custom market research and strategy firm in Boston, and President of AMA Sacramento Valley in California.
About Casey Mohan
Casey leads CMB’s qualitative practice and brings over a decade of qualitative research experience to the CMB team. During her career she has overseen numerous initiatives for Fortune 1000 clients, delivering insights and strategic recommendations that help clients connect with their target audiences and understand business context in meaningful ways. Her experience includes designing and conducting research for global clients across a broad range of industries and among a diverse range of audiences in both B2B and consumer spaces. Well-versed across qualitative methodologies, Casey has successfully conducted and overseen traditional and online focus groups, 1:1, and ethnographies, online discussion boards, innovation and ideation, co-creation workshops, as well as led employee focused meeting facilitation and activation workshops to help companies communicate research insights across their organization.
Casey’s work spans a range of clients/industries: Northrup Grumman, Lockheed Martin, Fiserv, Bank of America, Schwab, TD Bank, GoDaddy, Clover, Meta, Google, Activision Blizzard, Microsoft, Disney, Dignity Health, Geisinger, MD Anderson, SC Johnson, Restaurant Brands International, Taco Bell, Enterprise and more.
In her free time, Casey volunteers with the American Marketing Association. In 2021 she was nominated as a national Volunteer of the Year for her contributions to developing DEI educational resources for the organizations’ 1000+ professional chapter leaders, and her work co-authoring a national DEI framework and strategy. She has also led the Sacramento Chapter serving as Chapter President from 2019-2022. Casey also volunteers with local aviation related organizations throughout Sacramento including the California Capital Airshow, with her past volunteer work focusing on insights to support the International Council of Airshows.
Casey graduated from California State University in Sacramento, earning a Bachelor’s Business Administration with concentrations in Marketing and International Business.
Episode 167 - Social Media, Samuel Adams and More
In this episode of my podcast, which celebrates its five-year anniversary next month, I talk about a number of topics. I start off by talking about how I'll be running the Boston Marathon again this year, the 15th time I have run this historic race for a charitable cause. I then share my feelings about how much I love teaching, something I've been doing a lot of at this new stage in my career, and being involved as a member of the leadership team - as president - of the American Marketing Association's Boston chapter. I talk about my new book, Twenty Jobs, Twenty Lessons - a Long, Strange Career in Marketing, from Junk Mail to Social Media. I go on about the importance of knowing how to use social media effectively in 2023 and beyond, finally finishing my monologue with my take on a great, new ad from The Boston Beer Company for its non-alcoholic beer, Samuel Adams Just the Haze.
Episode 166 - How to Crush It on Social Media with Kris Bryant
In this episode of my podcast, I talk to social media strategist, UGC (User-Generated Content) creator and public speaker, Kris Bryant https://crushitwithkris.com/, about personal branding, marketing, TikTok and much more.
Episode 165 - Embrace Technology Now
This time around, I talk to you about the importance of Lesson 12 in my new book, Twenty Jobs, Twenty Lessons - a Long, Strange Career in Marketing, from Junk Mail to Social Media, which is "Embrace Technology Now." Turn up the volume. And enjoy.
Episode 164 - My Marketing Monologue
In these 30+ minutes or so, I talk about my teaching, a great presentation I saw by Google's Head of Industry, Don Batsford, recently at an event co-sponsored by Suffolk University and the American Marketing Association Boston, some good example of brands that have successfully "humanized" themselves and the need for all of us as human beings to be good to each other, among other things. Turn up the volume. And enjoy.
Episode 163 - Carhartt: A Great Brand in More Ways Than One
Workwear. Work clothes. Work gear.
All of the above is what Carhartt makes. All of it is very high quality and very popular.
Popular because it is so good-looking and long-lasting, but also because the brand itself is just so damn cool.
I mean, I feel like I'm always seeing the logo somewhere on what people are wearing, from complete strangers on the street to the college students I teach to my own two sons.
And now I'm proudly displaying it on a new hat I recently bought.
Now I'm one of the cool kids.
My point is this. Carhartt may say what they have to offer is for the tough and hard working among us, but I'm sure they know that their stuff is being bought for its looks as well by people from all walks of life.
I'm sure they've taken the pulse of their brand and audience enough times to know why they're so super successful.
To a great degree, their brand is not what they say it is, it's what those who are scooping it up left and right say it is. Right? I'm sure they know that, but what about you and every other brand out there?
How close are you to those who practically worship (hopefully) the products and services you have to offer Listen to your audience.
Observe how - and why - your brand is being consumed so much (or not) and take it from there. Don't ever lose touch with those on whom you depend.
Episode 162 - The Dairy Queen Brand Extension
My wife, Barbara, and I recently had lunch recently with my mom at the same Dairy Queen in Bellingham, Massachusetts that my family went to back in the day. Only now it is a Dairy Queen Grill & Chill, not just a place to get soft-serve ice cream, milk shakes and other frozen treats.
Talk about a big brand extension.
I mean, this company has been around since 1940 and has over 7,000 locations today.
When I was a kid, we'd get whatever we wanted for our birthdays. That was awesome.
This time around, we got whatever we wanted, too.🙂 And I thought it was great. And the service, too.
We got cheeseburgers. No ice cream. Times have changed. We went there for a meal, not dessert.
The consumer in me was certainly pleased.
The marketer in me observed how much this place has changed over the years, expanding and rebranding to become the perfect example of a successful brand extension.
Good for Dairy Queen. Good for their customers, too.
Episode 161 - Attracting the Attention of your Audience
If you don't attract the attention of your audience in advertising and marketing, you won't have any customers and clients. It's that simple.
And in this day and age, it's more difficult than ever to stand out among the competition and clutter, to get people to notice what you have to offer them.
However, I couldn't help but notice a truck recently that was conspicuously parked in the huge, empty parking lot along Sudbury Street outside of Mill & Main, the old, historic mill complex in Maynard.
Bull Spit. That was the name on the truck. Bull Spit. Catchy name for a business. Right? Attention-getting to say the least.
Both the double entendre of the name of this brewing company and the fact that this truck was so strategically parked in that lot where you couldn't miss seeing it certainly captured my attention. I'm sure many others have noticed it as well.
Turns out that by no coincidence, of course, one of their locations is situated right there in the mill, so this truck serves as a convenient call to action, a reminder that they're there and open for business.
That's no bull. That's outstanding advertising and marketing.
Episode 160 - What's Your Current Situation?
What's your current situation?
That's a thing on social media...telling people where you are and what you are doing now. You may already know that and even do that in your personal life, share your current situation with those who follow you on social media.
But do you do that in your professional life?
Documenting your days in real time is an easy and effective way for brands, businesses and professionals to establish a strong, steady presence on social media.
It shows you care enough about your audience to share your life with them. It satisfies their curiosity. It deepens the relationship you already have with them. It leads to greater engagement and unlimited possibilities for bigger and better things between you and those who look up to you.
It's a win-win.
Keep those who follow you abreast of your whereabouts and goings-on. Share your current situation on social media as often as possible.
Episode 159 - Be Like Kevin
Kevin Cronin is the lead vocalist and front man for the ridiculously awesome rock band, REO Speedwagon. He's a great performer and a great guy. But that's not why I want to talk about him today. I want to talk about how great he is on social media.
Brands, businesses, professionals, people...everybody likes listening to Kevin and his legendary band perform, right? But not everybody knows how much they can learn from Kevin about how to use Facebook, Twitter and the like.
It was more than 40 years ago when I saw REO Speedwagon at the Boston Garden. They put on a spectacular live show then, as I am sure they still do today. Yes, they're still touring, and I would love to see them again in concert. But in the meantime, I enjoy following Kevin on Facebook where he is as much a star online as he is on stage, documenting where the band is on the road, what they're doing and how he's feeling.
That's how to do it on social media. Give people a look behind the scenes, an up-close and personal view of your life, both personally and professionally.
And yes, believe it or not, whether you're a rockstar like Kevin or not, people are interested in your everyday goings-on.
That's the lesson to be learned here. That's branding. That's marketing. That's the bonding that comes along with the fact that you're sharing what you're doing day in day out on social media with those who care so much about you.
Episode 158 - Making My Book with Maria Antonia Silva and Morgan Hume
In this episode of my podcast, I talk with Maria Antonia Silva and Morgan Hume about the making of my new book, Twenty Jobs, Twenty Lessons - a Long, Strange Career in Marketing, from Junk Mail to Social Media.
Maria was the designer of the book and Morgan the editor. Both of them are recent graduates of Suffolk University in Boston, where I am an adjunct professor. I can't thank them enough for their skills, talent and support.
Episode 157 - Using Twitter Spaces in a College Classroom
Wait! What? You're not using Twitter Spaces yet?
My students and I hosted a Twitter Space recently, and it was such a ridiculously awesome educational experience.
In hosting this Space - a discussion about what's new in social media - we built a community, we positioned ourselves as thought leaders and we learned a lot from those who partook in this public conversation online.
Hosting your own Twitter Space is a great way to engage with your audience and develop long-lasting, mutually beneficial relationships with like-minded professionals. See for yourself. Host one today.
Episode 156 - Marketing, Networking, Empathy, Authenticity and More with Melissa Merrifield
In this episode of the podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, Bob talks to fellow American Marketing Association member (Melissa is from the Iowa chapter, Bob is from the AMA Boston chapter), Melissa Merrifield, about marketing, networking, empathy, authenticity and much more.
About Melissa Merrifield (from Melissa's LinkedIn Profile)
My vision is to apply excellent leadership, communication, networking, and design talents in a professional team setting. To demonstrate an entrepreneurial spirit and execute creative ideas in a growing environment, becoming a strong company asset in the design and development of modern-day business and technology.
• Over twenty two years of hands-on marketing management experience; versatile, results-oriented marketing professional, who knows how to manage a company's reputation as an asset • Designed all aspects of marketing pieces including branding, graphic design, and “content,” utilizing various forms of media • Successful track record for planning and executing publicity events for both private industry and non-profit organizations; recruited external service providers • Strengthened Cohesiveness and effectiveness of the sales force by coordinating and broadening the focus to customer centered philosophy and customer retention • Recruited, trained, and coached volunteers and employees, creating integrated teams with diverse personalities and approaches • Marketing expertise in concept development, negotiating with suppliers, new branch and new product launches, market segmentation, customer relationship management, budgeting, and forecasting • Project Management: proven record for successfully managing multiple projects from inception to completion
Specialties: Graphic Design, Marketing Solutions, Online Marketing, Direct Mail, Branding, Marketing Communications, Event Planning, Fundraising, Marketing Strategies, New product development
Episode 155 - The 6 Ps of Retail Marketing
There are four Ps of marketing...product, price, place and promotion. All are equally important.
When it comes to retail marketing, though, there are two additional Ps, presentation and personnel.
How you execute with regard to all these Ps can make a difference between success and failure for your brand or business.
Many retailers are struggling in this day and age. Are they focusing enough on the two additional Ps, areas where they could possibly establish a competitive advantage over the competition?
Amid COVID and a marketplace in which the only constant is change, nothing is easy today for brick-and-mortar stores.
That's one reason why we're seeing more and more empty store fronts on main street.
That's one reason why more and more retail is going etail.
Episode 154 - The Importance of Engaging Your Audience
Do you know the song, We Will Rock You, by Queen?
Of course, you know the song! It was written by Brian May for Queen's 1977 album, News of the World.
It was featured in a great scene in the movie, Bohemian Rhapsody.
It provided Queen with a ridiculously awesome opportunity to engage with their audience.
I used that song in my marketing class recently as an example of the importance of engaging with your audience as a brand or a business.
The more those on the receiving end of your messages are involved with what you have to offer, the more likely they will be to support you. Stomp, stomp, clap...
Episode 153 - Don't Be Stuck for Content
Stuck for content? Not sure what to put on social media?
Share what you're doing on the job.
Show off your knowledge and expertise.
Take pictures behind the scenes.
Record what you're working on with your colleagues.
Don't worry about it. Don't sweat it. Don't think that everything published on social media has to be created from scratch.
There are plenty of things you're doing on a regular basis already that you could be putting out there for public consumption.
Episode 152 - Marketing, Personal Branding, Leadership and More with Richard Conner
In this episode of the podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, Bob talks to fellow American Marketing Association member (Richard is from the Southern Connecticut chapter, Bob from AMA Boston), Richard Conner, about marketing, personal branding, leadership, running and much more.
About Richard Conner (from LinkedIn)
Global-minded Strategic Marketing Professional with 15 years of experience in B2B marketing for organizations, both domestic and international markets. I have a passion for innovative technology and developing new products that drive profitable growth.
Proven success in brand and marketing strategy, market research and customer segmentation, new product commercialization, portfolio management and leading marketing teams. Experience includes developing customer-focused marketing campaigns, and educational events that drive awareness, generate new leads, and increase market share.
Accomplished cross-functional leadership developing product roadmaps and marketing programs driving revenue growth and improve operating income.
LinkedIn (Richard S. Conner) - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rsconner1/ Instagram (@rconner621) - https://www.instagram.com/rconner621/ Instagram (@InspireVirtualRuns) - https://www.instagram.com/inspirevirtualruns/ Twitter (@RSConner1) - https://twitter.com/RSConner1
Episode 151 - The Growing Need for Content
Content marketing is only going to grow in importance.
Consumers want to hear from companies on a regular basis.
Not so much about what you have to sell to them, though.
No, they want to see what's going on behind the scenes. They want to get to know the softer side of businesses and brands. They want to get to know you as human beings.
So, use social media to put yourselves out there. Share as much content as possible about your corporate culture, your people, your products and services. Be conspicuous in your presence as often as possible both online and off. #ContentMarketing #SocialMedia #Marketing #Content
Episode 150 - The Personal Brand
In a recent blog post, Mark Schaefer wrote about Five Things I Would Do Differently If I Were Starting Over, one of those things being to place "more intent on the personal brand."
That's saying a lot, coming from someone who has such an extraordinarily strong personal brand. Mark is renowned far and wide for his marketing expertise and knowledge, his teaching and public speaking, his books and blog.
If someone as conspicuous in their presence online as Mark is thinks he could place more emphasis on his personal brand, what about you and me?
That's saying all of us could benefit from even more personal branding.
Thanks, Mark, as always, for the words of wisdom.
Episode 149 - Empathy in Marketing with Pat Timmons
In this episode of the podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, Bob talks to marketing professional and author, Pat Timmons, about his new book, Feel Something, about empathy in marketing and how understanding the feelings of your audience members can help you level up each phase of the buyer journey.
About Patrick Timmons
Patrick Timmons is a “swiss-army knife” in marketing, with industry experience in tech, music business, advertising, and PR. His passion for marketing began at Emerson College, where he acquired a bachelor’s degree in marketing communications and entrepreneurial studies. He then studied at Berklee College of Music and received a master's degree in music business with a focus on independent musicians.
While marketing is a strong passion for Patrick, so is getting to know people and understanding why people do what they do. Being immersed in social media marketing, Patrick noticed an urgent need for empathy. He then began his journey to understand and develop a new focus of marketing: Empathy Marketing.
Episode 148 - Entrepreneurship, Technology, Marketing and Social Media with Morissa Schwartz
In this episode of the podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, I have a conversation with the multi-talented, super successful entrepreneur, Morissa Schwartz. We talk about the different businesses she runs and how she uses social media so effectively to stay in front of her constituents. At one point during our chat, I praised Morissa for being so positive and nice to others, and she said she was asked recently about how she keeps up her productivity, and her answer was, "By staying positive and keeping an upbeat attitude." She said, "The byproduct of being positive is being more streamlined and things going more smoothly. She added, "Being nice to people, being positive...they're so rewarding in so many ways." Thanks, Morissa! You're such a very positive role model for so many fans, followers and friends, as both a professional and human being.
About Morissa Schwartz Morissa Schwartz is the owner of DrRissysWriting.com - a marketing and writing company ranked in the top 2 social media experts in NY by Thumbtack, and GenZPublishing.org - a publishing company, which has produced six Amazon bestsellers. She holds a doctorate in literature from Drew University and has a Masters in Communication.
Morissa broke a Guinness World Record for creating the World’s Longest Chain of Bracelets, is a bestselling author, has sung on MTV, speaks professionally about inspiring others through words and entrepreneurship, and was named the “Voice of Generation Z” by Community Magazine. She seeks to inspire others through words and a positive attitude. You can learn more about Morissa at MorissaSchwartz.com
Episode 147 - Reading, Writing, Arithmetic and Social Media
It used to be reading, writing and arithmetic. That's what was taught in grammar school.
I think it should now be reading, writing, arithmetic and social media.
I'm serious. Social media is how more and more people communicate in this day and age, especially young people.
If we teach students how to use social media at a young age, we will have much less of a computer illiteracy problem in the world and certainly far more instances of Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube and the like being used for good.
Episode 146 - Putting Yourself Out There on Social Media
Unless you're a big brand or a celebrity, to be effective on social media means to put yourself out there.
That's the SOCIAL in social media.
You have to be willing and able to share content frequently that is educational, enlightening, entertaining even.
You have to show the personal side of what you do for a living, not just the professional side, giving people a look behind the scenes, helping those on the receiving end of your messages get to know you and your colleagues as fellow human beings.
The more your audience gets to know you on #SocialMedia, the more likely they'll be to do business with you when the opportunities arise.
Episode 145 - If I Were a Business or a Brand with the Budget
If I were a business or a brand with the budget, I would hire people whose sole responsibility was to use social media on my behalf.
They would cover everything that's going on behind the scenes, sharing content day in and day out with our audience of fans, followers and friends.
The content they create and share would be educational, informative, insightful, supportive, inspirational, entertaining even.
They would be conspicuous in their presence, responsive and engaging, friendly and dependable. They would interact with those on the receiving end of our messages and learn from them.
They would be a better and more successful company in the long run because of this commitment to #SocialMedia.
Episode 144 - The Tree That Falls in the Woods
Don't be like the tree that falls in the woods, yet it doesn't make a sound because nobody is around to hear it fall.
After all, you want to be heard - loud and clear - on social media.
You want to make some noise.
You want people around you to hear what you have to say. You want an audience.
Episode 143 - What Can You Do for Social Media?
What do you need to do to get social media to pay off for you?
Sorry to disappoint, but it doesn't really work that way. It's what you need to do to make sure that social media pays off for those on the receiving end of your messages.
If the content you have to share on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and the like is educational, entertaining, informative and insightful, your audience will reward you with their undivided attention and support.
So yeah, it's what you're going to do for social media, not the other way around.
Episode 142 - New Belgium Brewing's Torched Earth Ale
Would you ever make a good product into a bad product? Why would you do such a thing?
Well, just ask New Belgium Brewing. They made Torched Earth ale, a bad-tasting beverage made with "smoke-tainted water," to make a statement about the climate change crisis. In the process, they got tons of PR and brought lots of attention to this important issue.
Brilliant, if you ask me. Simply brilliant.
Good for the people at New Belgium Brewing for taking such a strong stand as a brand.
How could your business or organization do something similar that results in such a win-win situation?
Episode 141 - Ubiquity, Frequency and Quality on Social Media
I am asked quite often about using social media for business.
Many brands try. Many brands fail. Many brands don't even give it a shot.
Using social media successfully as a business takes time, talent and tenacity, frankly. It's not easy.
You need to be ubiquitous, conspicuous in your presence on as many channels as possible. That's my opinion.
You need to share content frequently, not just every once in a while.
And that content you share needs to be of the highest quality. Mediocrity won't cut it.
Ubiquity. Frequency. Quality. That's how you market your business on social media.
Episode 140 - Satisfying Your Audience's Needs, Wants and Demands
Can you meet, if not exceed, your audience members’ needs, wants and demands?
That’s what it takes to be successful in marketing and sales.
That’s what it takes to be successful in business, period.
Episode 139 - Preach Like Chynna
Preach like Chynna, Chynna Phillips Baldwin. Yes, she’s not just a super successful singer, she’s a huge hit on YouTube, too, with her ridiculously awesome series, California Preachin’. To say she’s carefree and extemporaneous in her DIY videos - sharing what’s on her mind about her religious faith, family life and more - would be an understatement, but that’s how you do it on social media.
Chynna is a perfect example of best practices in how to rock your personal or corporate brand, if you ask me.
Just be authentic. Just be transparent. Just be yourself.
Episode 138 - Twitter Spaces, Customer Experience and More with Brian Hurst
In this episode of my podcast, Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, I talk to Brian Hurst, who is a colleague of mine on the volunteer social media team for AMA Boston. You can follow Brian on Twitter... here https://twitter.com/BrianHurst01
About Brian Hurst (from Brian's LinkedIn profile)...
Experienced Customer Service Representative with a demonstrated history of working in the information technology and services industry. Strong support professional skilled in Customer Relations, Microsoft Office, Social Media.
Episode 137 - The Four Ps of Marketing
The four Ps of marketing have been around for a long time, but they are as relevant today as ever.
The four Ps of marketing are product, price, place and promotion, otherwise known as the marketing mix.
Ideally, what you have to offer your customers and prospects has all of the four Ps going on, but yes, of course, sometimes your offerings are stronger in one or more of them.
In this case, I found a product that was super strong in all four areas, a six-pack of Summer | Limited Edition Polar Seltzer in Shaw's Supermarkets. I couldn't resist picking up not just one, but three of these six-packs - on sale - for 10 dollars.
What do you think? How can you make sure your own products and services have it all going on when it comes to the four Ps? #Marketing #Branding #Sales
Episode 136 - Authenticity on Social Media
Authenticity on social media is so very important.
If brands want to be successful on LinkedIn, Instagram, Twitter and the like, they need to show their human sides. They need to keep it real.
It's one thing to have great products and services to offer those on the receiving end of your marketing messages. It's another to have your audience trust you so much that they wouldn't think of buying from anyone else but you when it comes time to do business.
Make it easy on yourself on social media. Just be yourself.
P.S. Thanks to Pamela Bump for writing the ridiculously awesome post, "9 Social Media Trends Marketers Should Watch in 2021," on the HubSpot blog (https://www.startupjunkie.org/blog/2020/12/7/9-social-media-trends-marketers-should-watch-in-2021) that inspired this message of mine.
Episode 135 - Jump on the Social Media Bandwagon Before It's Too Late
Don’t fall behind. Jump on the social media bandwagon. It’s already a popular and prevalent communication channel, but it “will be the primary communication channel by 2024” if you agree with a prediction Brooke B. Sellas recently made on her agency’s, B Squared Media, blog here… https://bsquared.media/social-media-primary-communication-channel-2024/
That’s a bold prediction, but I couldn’t agree more with what Brooke has to say about social media.
LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and the like are being used by more and more people from all walks of life for both personal and professional reasons.
If I were you, I would make sure I knew social media inside and out before it’s too late. #SocialMedia #Communication #Communications
Episode 134 - Marketing, Social Media, Healthcare and Teaching with James Gardner
In this episode of my podcast, episode 134, I talk to fellow adjunct professor and marketing professional, James Gardner, for over an hour.
While our conversation covered everything from marketing to social media, teaching to technology, healthcare and more, this is the quote of his I want to leave you with today because I think it is a such a great example of James' words of wisdom.
"I think the challenge for tomorrow's leaders is...keep the best of yesterday, but overlay it with the tools of tomorrow." ~ James A. Gardner
About James Gardner
James is a digital sales and marketing leader with 20 years of B2C and B2B experience. While his career’s roots are in consumer packaged goods and strategy consulting, James has held leadership roles with fast-moving tech startups, established Fortune 1000 leaders, and forward-leaning digital marketing agencies.
James started his career with Procter & Gamble before earning his MBA at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management. Since then, he has served clients as a consultant with McKinsey & Company, led complex digital projects while agency-side, and built several high-performing marketing teams.
James also teaches digital media at Northeastern University, is a contributing editor for MedTech Boston, and actively mentors startups from MassChallenge and the Harvard Innovation Lab.
Episode 133 - Put More Emphasis on the Social in Social Media
Put more emphasis on the social in social media and you'll be more successful on social media. It's as simple as that. But you know and I know that being social takes time. Being social isn't easy to automate. Being social doesn't necessarily scale. Being social on social media, however, is a secret to success. Chime in personally from time to time, if not daily. Even if you're a big brand or a business, the more social you are on social media, the more likely you'll be to build a devoted, loyal audience that ultimately does business with you. #SocialMedia
Episode 132 - Marketing is Every Employee's Job
I’ve always believed that every employee is a marketer to some extent, especially when it comes to using social media on behalf of his or her employer.
Employees need education and empowerment, of course, for which the company’s marketing team should be responsible.
But once they’re properly trained, they can help amplify their employer’s messaging, helping to get the word out to an exponentially larger audience.
This is collaboration. This is cooperation. This is a coordinated effort between every member of a team. This is any employee of any organization possibly making the difference between the success and failure of a campaign.
Does your organization have this every-employee-is-a-marketer mindset? Do you contribute to, support or lead your company’s marketing efforts?
P.S. Thanks to Norman Guadagno, CMO at Acoustic, by the way, for writing the article in ClickZ.com (which you can read here... https://www.clickz.com/marketing-is-every-employees-job-they-just-dont-always-know-it/265651/) that inspired this riff of mine.
Episode 131 - PR and Corporate Communications with Maura FitzGerald
In this episode of Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, Episode 131, I talk to Maura FitzGerald, Co-Founder and Partner at V2 Communications, a Boston-based public relations and digital communications firm. During our conversation, we touch upon the challenges that businesses have faced during the pandemic, the importance of a solid internal communications program, hiring practices, employee empowerment and much more.
About Maura FitzGerald
Maura is one of Boston’s most seasoned public relations veterans. With decades of experience and not one, but two, high-growth PR agencies under her belt, Maura was the 2019 recipient of Boston PR Club’s John J. Molloy Crystal Bell Lifetime Achievement Award.
Over her career, Maura successfully founded and grew one of the premier U.S. brands in strategic technology communications, FitzGerald Communications. Under Maura’s direction, the agency immediately became one of the fastest-growing technology public relations firms, rapidly transitioning from regional boutique to respected national brand in less than three years. After successfully building FitzGerald Communications to five offices and nearly 200 PR professionals, Maura sold FitzGerald Communications to Omnicom Corp. in 2002.
A serial entrepreneur, Maura could not sit back when she witnessed a market opportunity evolving. With new technology innovations flooding the market as a result of digitization, Maura was poised to address the sophisticated communications challenges of these emerging companies. Together with Jean Serra, an experienced technology communications strategist and senior executive from FitzGerald Communications, she launched Version 2.0 Communications, now V2 Communications, in late 2006.
After her experience running FitzGerald, Maura wanted to establish a firm that is boutique by design. Since its inception, Maura has grown V2’s client roster to include several unicorns, disruptors and pioneers in the mobility, green technology, enterprise software and even nonprofit spaces. Today, V2 is recognized as a “Best Place to Work” in Boston and beyond.
Maura brings her unique blend of communications strategy and business management to counsel CEOs and senior marketing leaders from some of technology’s most innovative market pioneers, including Sony, Motorola, Digital Equipment Corp., Compaq, Sapient, Peregrine and Manugistics. Working with these industry giants from their early days, Maura has designed programs to establish industry awareness, bolster credibility and position these organizations for future successful liquidity events.
She continues to bring this expertise and experience to V2’s clients through her direct management and mentoring of the agency’s leading account teams.
Episode 130 - The Language of Global Marketing with Wendy Pease
In this episode of Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, episode 130, Wendy Pease and I talk about her new book, The Language of Global Marketing - Translate Your Domestic Strategies into International Sales and Profits. We talk about why companies would want to go global, how companies can go global, which companies have gone global successfully, which languages are most common around the world and much more.
About Wendy Pease Wendy Pease lived in a small agriculture town in Taiwan when she was 8-9 years old. From that experience, she learned what it's like to be different and not know the language. For the last 15 years, she's owned Rapport International, a foreign language services company that specializes in multilingual marketing, and translation. Her passion is connecting people across languages and cultures for a peaceful and prosperous world. Prior to this role, she served in Senior roles in marketing and business development. She has an MBA from Dartmouth College and graduated in three years from Penn State in Foreign Service. For fun she likes to swim, spend time in the woods and connect with her teenage sons.
Episode 129 - The Free Offer Works Wonders
Giving something away for free is a great way to get people’s attention. It’s one way to introduce what you have to offer to a new audience. When I had my own small business in the ‘90s, I gave away 50 half-pound bags of ground gourmet coffee to a list of prime prospects as a way of drawing interest in my marketing services. I told those on the receiving end of my outreach that “some opportunities aren’t meant for the back burner,” and this was one of them. This was their opportunity to get my very best work, as I had every intention of perking up their results. This campaign was a success in more ways than one, earning me plenty of publicity and some new business as well. Whether it’s a free trial of your products and services or a complimentary gift of any sort whatsoever, putting something for nothing into your audience’s hands is a great way to win their favor.
Episode 128 - Marketing Isn't Difficult
Marketing isn’t difficult if those on the receiving end of your messages know that you care about them. If those messages are cold, impersonal, calculated and repetitive, they will see right through you and ultimately ignore you. If you’re listening to them, engaging with them and supporting them, they will gravitate towards your brand and everything you have to offer. People do business with people.
Episode 127 - The Social in Social Media
Don’t automate everything you share on social media. Don’t be all business, either. Be all human. Share your feelings and opinions, not just news and information. Show what’s going on in your life and the lives of your colleagues, not just what you have to market and sell. Be there for your audience, those who are following you and supporting you. Give them as much attention as they give you, even more. Listen to them and engage with them. Praise them and thank them. Help them as much as possible. Don’t overlook the importance of the social in social media.
Episode 126 - Involve Your Audience as a Marketer
Back in the day, early in my career, I learned the importance of involving my audience as a marketer. I worked at Meredith Corporation in Des Moines, Iowa. As a copywriter, my job was to write direct mail packages on behalf of the company's roster of magazines, convincing those on the receiving end to subscribe to them. One technique we used was to encourage recipients to move a sticker or token from one side of the order card to the other before returning it for a free trial issue of the magazine. The idea was to get them involved, to overcome inertia, to trigger a favorable action on their part. That was 1985. This is 2021. Yet the same principle still holds true in marketing today. Whether you're using direct mail or social media, print or digital, if you involve your audience as a marketing professional, chances are they'll respond more favorably to what you have to offer.
Episode 125 - The Emotional Connection You Make with Your Audience
Marketers, advertisers, brands, businesses...it's not just about the products or services you have to offer your audience, it's about the emotional connection you have with them. Kudos, props and congrats to Anheuser-Busch for reinforcing this very important point in their ridiculously awesome ad for simply getting together over a beer.
Episode 124 - Purpose-Driven Branding with Katie Burkhart
In this episode of Bob Cargill's Marketing Show, episode 124, Bob talks to Katie Burkhart about purpose-driven branding, marketing, social media and much more.
About Katie Burkhart
Katie Burkhart is a builder, founder, and communicator. Defining matter as equal parts strategic and positively impactful, Katie started by founding Matter 7, a firm that builds purpose-driven brands. She’s also the founder of MatterPulse, which enables ambitious teams to run and grow against the double bottom line.
Katie delivers critical focus while distilling the big picture into pointed actions. She's the author of MatterLogic and has been published in The Startup, UX Collective, and Boston Content.
Follow her on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/katharineburkhart and subscribe to her newsletter at www.katieburkhart.me/newsletter.
Episode 123 - What's What in Social Media with Angela Pitter
In this episode of my podcast, episode 123, I talk to Angela Pitter about marketing, social media and more.
About Angela Pitter
Angela Pitter is Founder and CEO at LiveWire Collaborative, a digital marketing consultancy. LiveWire Collaborative helps business owners and executives to tap into digital marketing solutions that unleash their brand’s full potential and to use social media to connect, collaborate, and convert their target communities. Angela is a highly sought-after speaker who was previously featured on the TV series Chronicle, WCVB, and has personally trained thousands of CEOs, business owners, and consultants worldwide on their signature LinkedIn Influencer system. She is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) and holds both her M.S. in Administration and B.S. in Computer Engineering from Boston University. Angela currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Newton Needham Regional Chamber of Commerce. Follow her on Twitter: @angelapitter and visit website www.livewirecollaborative.com
Episode 122 - Talking with Helen Pinchanski about Marketing and Social Media During the Pandemic and Beyond
In this episode, I talk to Strategy Consultant, Purpose Marketing Strategist and Digital and Customer Experience Advisor, Helen Pinchanski, about marketing and social media during the pandemic and beyond. Helen is a fellow member of the board of directors of AMA Boston, a marketing industry colleague and a good friend. She is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to her areas of expertise and a great conversationalist, as you will hear. Listen and enjoy.
About Helen Pinchanski (From Her LinkedIn Profile)
Experienced Strategy Consultant with a demonstrated history of working in the information technology and services, retail and consumer/business products industries. Skilled in Strategy, Purpose Marketing, Analytical Skills, Management, Start-ups, Leadership, and Entrepreneurship. Strong consulting professional and advisor with a Master of Liberal Arts, Marketing Management focused in Branding, Social Media and Customer Experience from Harvard University.
Episode 121 - Nobody Trusts Anybody Anymore
Nobody trusts anybody anymore. At least that's how it seems.
I recently read a ridiculously awesome article on Heidi Cohen's blog about five marketing trends https://heidicohen.com/marketing-trends/, one of which had to do with the erosion of public trust.
Unfortunately, this lack of trust can have a negative impact on the success of your marketing and sales efforts. The less people trust, the less likely they are to support brands and businesses unless they're already loyal customers.
That's where social media can help. Social media makes it possible for you to build mutually beneficial relationships with those on the receiving end of your messages.
Social media gives you the opportunity to show that you have a personality, not just a pulse.
The more people learn about you on social media, the more likely they'll be to trust you. #SocialMedia #Marketing #Branding
Episode 120 - Being Incessant on Social Media
Incessant creating. Incessant sharing. Incessant listening. Being incessant in everything you do on social media is one of the keys to success there.
In the documentary, “ZZ TOP: That Little Ol’ Band from Texas,” the band’s lead singer and guitarist, Billy Gibbons, talks about the “incessant touring” they did in the early stages of their career and how that helped them become so popular. The rest of their story, of course, is history, as they went on to become iconic, international superstars on the music scene.
As it was for these ridiculously awesome rock musicians, it is for you, me and anyone else who wants to perform successfully on social media. We have to be incessant. #SocialMedia #Marketing #Branding #ZZTop
Episode 119 - Put on a Show
Chris Brogan is on to something.
In an article he recently published on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/why-im-changing-my-title-showrunner-2021-chris-brogan/), he said he was going to be changing his title to “Showrunner” and that he would be helping companies turn their business into a show.
Chris is perfectly suited to do just that for his clients. He's a master communicator, whether he's hosting his daily video show, The Backpack Show, keynoting a conference or writing a blog post. Imagine what he can do for your digital brand if he does just a little of what he does for himself and others already.
I concur with Chris completely.
With the emergence of #SocialMedia years ago, we said that every brand was a publisher. I say that they’re now broadcasters, too.
Whether we’re talking about independent consultants and contractors or big and small companies, creating a variety of content on a regular basis and sharing it publicly is the way to go in the new year ahead.
Every business should be employing people who are capable of communicating compellingly in front of a camera, behind a microphone and in writing.
To stand out among the clutter and compete successfully against the competition, every brand should be putting on a show in 2021.
Episode 118 - Talking Marketing, Advertising, TikTok and DEI with Karen McFarlane
In this episode, I talk to Karen McFarlane, founder and CMO of Kaye Media Partners and President of AMA New York - the American Marketing Association's New York chapter - about marketing, advertising and social media, specifically TikTok. We also have a great conversation about social justice and the importance of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) in the workplace.
About Karen McFarlane
With over 25 years of marketing experience, Karen brings a wealth of knowledge in strategy, revenue generation, branding, and digital marketing to organizations that want to map creativity and ingenuity to audiences that value their products or services. She help start-ups, SMBs, and enterprises generate the demand they need to grow. This includes jumpstarting the marketing function, building and training teams, and managing key marketing initiatives. From marketing strategy to marketing automation to the creation of high-impact digital content that converts, businesses rely on her expertise for strategic direction, fractional marketing, and targeted projects that are measurable, effective, and memorable.
Episode 117 - Being Inspired and Impressed by Debbie Bean
In this episode of my marketing show, I don’t talk about marketing at all.
Instead, I talk about overcoming challenges and coping with crises with a friend of mine from Franklin, the town in which I grew up, Debbie Bean.
Debbie, 66, has experienced more than her fair share of health issues, the most severe being the loss of her hands and feet due to a very serious case of streptococcemia she suffered in late 2006. She was so sick at the time that the doctors were telling her family to say goodbye to her because she was not going to make it.
Says Debbie now about that incident, “It changed my entire world. Instead of being so darned independent, I found myself dependent on everyone for everything. But every day thereafter, I’ve tried teaching myself how to do what I need done. I try to reinvent the wheel to make things work for me.”
Not only did Debbie survive that terrible scare, though, she also has beaten cancer and undergone a handful of other successful surgeries. And as if all that weren’t enough, both of Debbie’s parents’ lives were cut short tragically, her mother’s due to cancer and her father’s as a result of an auto accident.
Today, Debbie works as an administrative assistant, attends the Franklin United Methodist Church on Sundays and drives herself around town, enjoying life as a single mother of two daughters and a grandmother of four.
Her attitude is as positive and optimistic as anybody’s you’ll ever know, which makes you feel good all over just being around her. She says she can either laugh or cry, and she chooses to laugh. I say I’m sure you’ll love listening to our conversation as much as I loved having it. Get ready to be inspired and impressed by Debbie Bean.
Episode 116 - The Secret of Success in Marketing and Elsewhere Empathy. It’s one thing we could all use more of if we want to be more successful in both our professional and personal lives. Yup. Think more about others and less about yourself. It's that easy. That’s the secret to success in marketing, the field in which I earn my livelihood, in business in general and in life itself. When you walk in someone else’s shoes, you learn a lot about how they think, feel and live. You gain an understanding of their needs and wants, their shortcomings and strengths, their wins and losses. You can relate better to them and vice versa. It is easier to establish a mutually beneficial relationship with them. Empathy towards others – friends or family, colleagues or clients, teammates or neighbors, even complete strangers – leads to much better outcomes and many more solutions, far less division, dissension and disappointment. Ask those around you how they are doing today. Ask them for feedback. Ask them how you can help. This is just some of what I took away from a ridiculously awesome article I read recently written by Michael Brenner, which you can check out for yourself in its entirety here… https://marketinginsidergroup.com/marketing-strategy/follow-dave-grohls-example-and-pour-your-fans-a-beer/
Episode 115 - A Few Words about Marketing with Chris Russo
In this episode, I talk to Chris Russo, principal at Russo Strategic Partners, about marketing, social media (TikTok in particular) and much more.
Bio: Chris Russo is a brand strategist, content creator, and partnership builder. As principal of Russo Strategic Partners, Chris specializes in helping brands elevate their online presence through engaging content, unique virtual events, and strategic partnerships. You can find Chris on LinkedIn or on his website: russostrategicpartners.com.
Episode 114 - A Few Words about Marketing with Amanda Baier
In this episode, I talk to Amanda Baier, the Director of Marketing Communications for Vecna Robotics in Waltham, Massachusetts.
About Amanda Baier
Amanda Baier is the Director of Marketing Communications for Vecna Robotics. She is responsible for corporate communications, including the internal communications, sales support, and the planning and execution of strategic industry-facing initiatives. She has previously held roles within small IT and automation startups and nonprofit organizations and thrives at the intersection of business impact and humanistic outcomes. Amanda holds a dual degree in English and Comparative Literature with a Specialization in Technical Communications and Business Writing from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.
Amanda Baier on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-baier-b236417/
Vecna Robotics (Vecnarobotics.com) on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/11250876/admin/
Episode 113 - A Few Words with Robert Lee and Matt Haas
In this episode, I talk to Robert Lee, videographer, and Matt Haas, YouTube expert, about their weekly livestreaming show, #VerboseWednesdays. We also address a number of topics and issues related to marketing, social media and much more.
About Robert Lee
Prior to founding ShaLaLaLa, I've spent over 20+ years of experience in direct marketing for businesses, especially medical manufacture, food and the entertainment industry. My marketing background and creativity offers me a unique perspective and approach to shoots where I had produced a music documentary that has aired on several public access channels across Massachusetts and our company won Online video awards with NEDMA.
I'm fortunate that the projects have given me the opportunity to work with a diverse range of talent including Edward James Olmos, Kevin Eastman (Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle creator), Paul Michael Glaser, Chris Trapper, Noam Chomsky, and Bianca de la Garza.
I have had the pleasure to be featured on ProductionHUB, AMA Boston's Talking Marketing Podcast, Live Streaming Pros, The Mobius Video Podcast and UR Business Network Podcast Program. When I'm not working on a shoot, you can easily find me passionately giving talks about video marketing or production in formal and informal settings. A firm believer in an INCLUSIVE approach, pre-production, and that the key things for your videos are knowing your audience, knowing your goals, purposes and more importantly your message.
About Matt Haas
Matt Haas is a self-proclaimed geek and a YouTube expert that can show you know to grow an audience. Matt created the "Be Awesome on YouTube" course where 32 lesions are 100% free at AllThingsYouTube.com. This course was created because Matt knows it's possible to reach a worldwide audience with consumer-level gear, passion, and great on-camera presence. Most importantly, you don't need anyone's permission! Matt streams weekly at 7pm Eastern where he shares his knowledge and answers YouTube questions from the audience.
Episode 112 - Activate Your Audience
When you put on a special event, encourage everybody involved to talk about it on #SocialMedia, especially the members of your audience.
Ask them to share content about your event before, during and after it, amplifying the reach of whatever you have to say or do to an exponentially larger number of people. It’s good for you.
Not only are you getting implied endorsements from a legion of fans, you’re getting in front of spectators, viewers and listeners who might otherwise have never discovered you. It’s good for them, too.
Yes, according to an article I read recently on the American Marketing Association’s website (“Consumers Enjoy Events More When Commenting on Them” by Gabriela N. Tonietto and Alixandra Barasch, September 23, 2020 https://www.ama.org/2020/09/23/consumers-enjoy-events-more-when-commenting-on-them/), creating content about an experience unfolding in front of them actually increases audience engagement and enjoyment. It’s a win-win.
So don’t tell your audience to put down their phones. Rally them to use their phones, laptops and electronic devices to promote your event to their own respective circles.
Activate your audience to spread the word on your behalf on social media.
Episode 111 - A Few Words with Caroline Cooke
In this episode, I talk to Inbound Consultant and Comic, Caroline Cooke, about her experiences in marketing, social media, comedy and more.
About Caroline Cooke (from her LinkedIn profile)...
I'm a strategic consultant and standup comic helping HubSpot customers to Grow Better. As a storyteller, I craft creative messaging to empathetically connect with audiences through copy that's as compelling as it is clever. Professional Meets Playful.
Episode 110 - Try a Limited-Time Collab
Look what McDonald's is doing with the ridiculously awesome hip hop artist, Travis Scott.
He’s sold millions of records. They’ve sold billions of burgers.
Now they’ve come up with a win-win collaboration.
They’ve gotten together to sell The Travis Scott Meal.
Because it’s available for a limited time only, there’s a sense of urgency to take advantage of this offer.
Joining forces like this also increase the likelihood that a much larger audience will take an interest.
A quarter pounder with bacon and cheese, fries and a Sprite, all with Travis Scott’s name on it?
What’s not to like?
Naming the meal after Travis makes it a more meaningful purchase, too. It’s associated with his brand. It’s not just a delicious bite to eat. It’s a great collector’s item.
You don’t have to sell burgers to try a limited-time collab like this this. Who can you get together with to increase your popularity and sales? #Marketing #Advertising #Branding #McDonalds #TravisScott
Episode 109 - A Few Words with Jessie Coan
In this episode, I talk to Jessie Coan Marketing's Jessie Coan about marketing, social media, how business has changed during this pandemic and a whole lot more. Listen. Watch. Enjoy.
About Jessie Coan (from her LinkedIn profile)...
I am a strategic marketer who turns strategy into action. Nothing frustrates me more than having someone build a killer strategy and then you have no idea how to execute on it. That's the opposite of what I do. When people describe me, they say over and over "Jessie gets things done. She's a problem solver, no fear, figure it out marketer." My marketing super power is I turn problems (IE not enough content, campaigns that aren't working, challenges with personalities on teams, failing go-to-market plans) into successes.
Over the past 15 years, I have had the privilege of supporting B2B organizations by building brands, developing innovative marketing strategies, and managing fully integrated marketing campaigns that generate profitable revenue. My success is attributed to partnering with cross-functional teams by developing targeted customer acquisition plans that result in the achievement of sales goals and increased customer awareness. I am passionate about building and leading high-performing marketing teams across strategy design, creative, digital, web, content, analytics/research, and communications.
When I’m not marketing, I’m spending time with my favorite girl, Nellie (you can find her on Instagram), or cooking up something tasty in the kitchen. I also love really bad movies and dad jokes. I went to Skidmore College and have a BS in Studio art. A masters from Emerson College in Integrated Marketing Communications.
Episode 108 - The Domino's Homemade Film Festival
Free pizza for a year. Sounds good to me. What about you?
Free pizza for a year. That’s the grand prize in the Domino’s Homemade Film Festival contest.
To enter, all you need to do is submit a video of 60 seconds or less by August 21 at 3 PM ET at https://www.dominosfilmfest.com/
Between September 7-11, people can vote for their favorite homemade films about Domino's, and on September 18, the winners will be announced with $1,560 in Domino’s gift cards going to the grand prize winner, $500 in gift cards to the second place winner and $200 in gift cards to the third place winner.
What a great idea! What a great contest!
It's a win-win campaign if ever there was one.
Domino’s is getting its fans to create their own User-Generated-Content (UGC) on behalf of the brand. And its audience is getting a chance to win free pizza.
I also applaud Domino’s for launching this contest during the pandemic. People have a little more time on their hands lately and are more inclined to enter such a contest as well as order pizza instead of going out to dinner or cooking themselves. Brands, businesses, marketers and advertisers can learn a lot from this ridiculously awesome case study.
How can YOU do something similar to help promote your own products and services? #Marketing #Branding #Dominos
Episode 107 - A Few Words with Sally Hild
In this episode, I talk to Sally Hild, Nonprofit Director of The Wayside Inn Foundation, about the legendary Longfellow's Wayside Inn in Sudbury, Massachusetts, and what she and her colleagues have been doing to pivot during the coronavirus pandemic.
About Sally Hild
Hired as the first Nonprofit Director of The Wayside Inn Foundation in October 2019, Sally Hild was brought on board to strengthen the organization’s nonprofit identity, increase community engagement, and amplify development activities. Sally is in charge of spearheading broader history programs and exhibits that support The Wayside Inn Foundation's educational mission. Sally holds a Master of Arts in Historic Preservation from Boston University’s American and New England Studies program. With extensive experience in nonprofit organization management, before joining The Wayside Inn Foundation, Sally served as Executive Director of the Sudbury Historical Society in Sudbury, Massachusetts and at the Cambridge Historical Society in Cambridge, MA. Sally also worked for 6 years in Sudbury's Office of Planning and Community Development. Having grown up in CT but with family in the Massachusetts area, trips to The Wayside Inn for family gatherings were frequent and helped to grow early on an interest in historic preservation, American and New England studies, museum management, and educational programming. She is an active community volunteer and lives in Sudbury with her husband and two sons.
Episode 106 - A Few Words with Kathy McConnell
In this episode, I talk to transformational marketing professional, Kathy McConnell, about marketing, social media and golf - yes, golf. During our conversation, Kathy talks about how when she was about 10 years old, she "really started to fall in love with marketing because I opened up a lemonade stand." Don't miss the rest of the story!
About Kathy McConnell (from her LinkedIn profile)
Kathy is the epitome of optimist. She believes that we are all in bloom, forever growing ourselves, and our interests. As a marketing consultant, Kathy teaches small businesses the "how to" in marketing. From social media to email to website optimization, she takes her 25 years of corporate marketing knowledge and applies it to real life. With her exclusive brand workbook, developed for and with clients, and honest conversation, Kathy steers you in a direction you are comfortable with. Clients appreciate her upfront and no BS approach to teaching.
She is open to teaching all aspects of the digital realm from Google Drive and Microsoft Sharepoint, Kathy can help you organize and structure your team to enter the digital revolution. Not just another marketing consultant, Kathy is able to analyze and dissect your businesses most pressing challenges - and turn them upside down!
Episode 105 - A Few Words with Sharon Grimm
In this episode, I talk to relationship marketing professional, Sharon Grimm, about everything from SendOutCards to marketing during the pandemic, social media to just plain having fun and being positive.
About Sharon Grimm (in Her Own Words)
I am an Executive Relationship Marketer with SendOutCards! The system builds relationship by sending greeting cards and gifts of appreciation. Via our App or online website you are able to create REAL personalized cards that we print, stuff and mail for you. For a fraction of your marketing budget, you can be building better relationships which ultimately allows you to GAIN and RETAIN Clients!
Sharon Grimm 978-618-2479 card.lady.shar@gmail.com Please connect on LinkedIn & Facebook!
Episode 104 - A Few Words with Julia Khazan
In this episode, I talk to innovative marketing professional, Julia Khazan, about marketing during these difficult days, customer-centricity, marketing, social media, job-seeking and more.
About Julia Khazan (from her LinkedIn profile)...
A marketing professional who has experience as a business development manager who works the sales enablement process and smarketing very well. I am able to turns leads into satisfied customers within days with both marketing and sales methodologies. My sales ration is 50% on average and am able to attract customers beyond the target market.
Creator of ScaleBounder.com, I have now helped over seven clients in the past two years in various industries: an online education institute and artists among them. Scaling start-ups is my passion via effective business and marketing strategy, inbound/outbound marketing, SEO, social media campaigns, email marketing, event planning, website management, UX and marketing campaigns.
Episode 103 - Black Lives Matter
Black lives matter. Saying so matters, too.
To think that in the year 2020 this country still has a problem with racism. That is not just sad, that is shameful.
As Nike has said so well in its timely, new ad, “Don’t pretend there’s not a problem in America.”
Whoever we are, whatever we do, wherever we live, we all have a responsibility to speak out and stand up against racism, bigotry, discrimination and injustice.
In both our personal and professional lives, we can’t be silent when such a big problem exists.
As brands, businesses, people and professionals, we all have a duty to stand together as one in the face of something so wrong and work hard to ensure that everybody in this country has equal opportunity to enjoy life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. #BlackLivesMatter
Episode 102 - A Few Words with Elizabeth Schaul
In this episode, I talk to marketing strategist and women's empowerment leader, Elizabeth Schaul, about marketing, social media, leadership and much more.
About Elizabeth Schaul (from Her LinkedIn Profile)
Energetic and experienced Marketing Manager and initiative leader with proven success managing people and projects in every facet of marketing. Launched and managed multiple websites; produced and facilitated content; elevated corporate social media strategy and accounts; implemented corporate email strategies and programs; initiated and organized events; drove public relations and marketing communications, developed and streamlined budget; impacted SEO and relevant keywords; harnessed CRM capabilities; produced and distributed email automations; improved analytics and applied insights from data; enriched branding; managed vendors and cross-functional teams, and more.
Solid foundation of digital and traditional marketing. Accustomed to delivering results in fast-paced environments with competing priorities. Savvy in B2B and B2C marketing with industry experience in e-commerce, retail, financial services, investment management, life science, advertising, non-profit, and hospitality. Exceptionally conscientious and diligent do-er ready to dig into any project. Ability to see a situation from different perspectives and achieve creative and inventive solutions. Critical thinker with strong analytical skills. Creative and dedicated team-player with a keen sense of initiative. Socially aware with a conscience.
Recognized for my creative ideas and ability to make them a reality. Known for inspiring and motivating others and creating a positive environment to bring a team together.
Episode 101 - A Few Words with Brad McCormick
In this episode, I talk to digital marketing consultant, Brad McCormick, about marketing and sales during this pandemic, entrepreneurism, innovation, creativity and his role as Vice President of Social Media on the board of directors of the American Marketing Association Boston.
About Brad McCormick (from His LinkedIn Profile)
I am a self-motivated problem solver, product marketing innovator, and calculated risk taker with the ability to bring new ideas to market from initial concept to execution on delivery. With more than a decade in sales and marketing experience covering retail and e-commerce with a perspective on local, regional, national and international business operations. Currently managing a digital marketing consulting business in e-commerce and digital media space.
Episode 100 - Ridiculously Awesome Customer Service
Businesses, especially small businesses, need to provide outstanding customer service to their customers and clients if they expect to succeed.
That’s almost always the case, of course, but that’s truer than ever during this pandemic when people are purchasing considerably less than usual.
How do brands and businesses, especially brick-and-mortar stores, survive these unprecedented times? How do they overcome a seemingly endless succession of obstacles and hurdles?
A good customer experience can make a difference between success and failure in these tough times.
Be responsive and available virtually 24/7.
Listen to your audience and meet, if not exceed, their expectations.
Make it easy for them to find you online, especially on social media.
Reinvent what you have to offer to align with the new normal.
Go above and beyond on behalf of everybody who reaches out to you, realizing how much they will appreciate you for the effort and reward you with their loyalty.
Be like Daniel Kenn, owner of Sudbury Coffee Works in Sudbury, who provided me with ridiculously awesome customer service recently.
Episode 99 - A Few Words with Meaghan Edelstein
In this episode, I talk to social media consultant, Meaghan Edelstein, about her new social media crisis strategy deck and how brands should be tailoring their marketing strategies and tactics during the coronavirus pandemic.
About Meaghan Edelstein (From her LinkedIn Profile)
Currently accepting new clients.
I provide either short-term or long-term digital marketing consulting and execution. I am a sole practitioner and all work is completed by yours truly. I do not outsource any work.
For the past 12 years, I've immersed myself in social media. In 2007, I began documenting my personal battle with cancer via my blog, I Kicked Cancer’s Ass. Within 6 months of my first post, I founded the nonprofit organization, Spirit Jump, a grassroots nonprofit organization. Through the strategic use of social media, I was able to reach thousands of cancer fighters, survivors & supporters.
Through invaluable experience gained from running a highly successful blog & nonprofit, my social media passions continued to grow. I took on various freelance & in-house marketing jobs until I was hired as to create and produce social media focused conferences for Global Strategic Management Institute. Over the course of two years, I was responsible for producing over 17 highly successful executive level summits. In addition, I was the Vice President of Social Media for GSMI overseeing all social media marketing efforts including being the senior editor for the GSMI Social Media Strategies Summit blog. I also had the privilege of facilitating Social Axcess 25, GSMI’s executive working group.
In an effort to grow my skill set I began my freelance journey, crafting, implementing, maintaining & growing social communities, campaigns & contest for a variety of organizations from small businesses to publicly traded companies. My success in social media marketing has been nationally recognized & as a result, my opinions & insights have been featured in numerous publications including Mashable, Social Media Examiner & Inc.
I am also a licensed attorney in the state of Florida.
Episode 98 - A Chat with Kate Cwieka about Marketing During a Pandemic
I had an excellent conversation recently with Avidia Bank's Katelin Cwieka recently about marketing and social media during a pandemic.
These are difficult times for everyone. We all need to hunker down and take care of ourselves, our families, our friends, our colleagues, our neighbors, even complete strangers.
As professionals, of course, this is not business as usual. How can companies and organizations adjust what they're saying to their customers and prospects in order to show empathy, concern, support and understanding. That's what Kate and I talk about during this conversation. Listen...
Kate Cwieka, AVP - Communications Manager, Marketing, Avidia Bank
This social media marketing maven got her start with her own fashion and event blog. After working as a freelancer and agency, she moved on to the financial marketing life at Avidia Bank.
Kate isn’t limited to marketing and banking. Kate is a lover of music and IPAs, so you may have even heard that she coordinated a beer collaboration between Avidia Bank and a local brewery which was launched at a music festival! Her quest is to find ways she can make Avidia stand out in the market, usually through a long, thought out PR Stunt. You can follow her on Twitter and Instagram at @BankSmartKATE.
Episode 97 - A Few Words with Wendy Pease
In this episode, I had the pleasure to speak to Wendy Pease, a Sudbury, Massachusetts neighbor and friend of mine, about marketing, communications, her company, Rapport International - which provides written translation, spoken interpretation and multilingual communication services - and how we are both dealing with the coronavirus pandemic.
About Wendy Pease
Wendy Pease is owner of Rapport International, a translation, interpretation and language services company that eliminates spoken and written language barriers in 200+ languages. Prior to this, she served in corporate senior management positions in international marketing and business development. She has an MBA from Dartmouth College, and a BA in Foreign Service from Penn State. She’s a frequent speaker and writer on language, culture, marketing, HR, entrepreneurship and exporting. Wendy has lived in Mexico, Taiwan and the Philippines and is passionate about languages, cultures and communications.
Episode 96 - Staying in Touch With Your Audience During the Coronavirus Pandemic
Al Roker is delivering his morning weather forecasts for NBC’s TODAY show from his kitchen.
Late-night talk show hosts like Jimmy Fallon and Jimmy Kimmel are presenting new DIY incarnations of their shows from home, too.
Popular musicians and celebrities of all kinds are live-streaming on Instagram, Facebook and almost everywhere else on social media, performing hit songs and connecting with fans.
They are doing whatever it takes to keep the show going on, making a huge positive impression on viewers and listeners during these difficult days.
Brands and businesses can be doing the same thing, too. In fact, some of your most meaningful communications could be taking place during these tough times. Your customers and prospects will appreciate hearing from you.
Episode 95 - How Marketers Can Respond to the Coronavirus Outbreak
Amid the rapidly worsening coronavirus outbreak, marketers, advertisers, brands and businesses might need to adjust, if not pause their messages to consumers.
It is important to be sensitive to the seriousness of this situation. The economy may be threatened, but lives are at stake.
Take a look at any of your existing marketing campaigns and make sure to bring them up-to-date. Authenticity is always a priority in marketing, but now more than ever, what you say to your audience is a representation of how you feel as a brand.
Business must go on, but think how you might be able to do things in a better way.
Think like CVS Health. They announced the other day that they will deliver prescribed medications to customers for free. That's a win-win situation if ever there was one. That's how to do things in these tough times.
What can you do now as a marketer, advertiser, brand or business to show that you care as much about - ideally, more than - your constituents as you do about the bottom line? #Marketing #Advertising #Coronavirus
Episode 94 - A Few Words with Rebecca Lennartz
In this episode - recorded over coffee at Cafe on the Common in Waltham, MA, on Friday, February 21, 2020 - I talk to Rebecca Lennartz, a trade show marketer and exhibit consultant, about marketing, social media and much more.
About Rebecca Lennartz
A results driven, detailed and creative professional who can help create and orchestrate a message when more than words will matter.
Episode 93 - A Good Bedside Manner Goes a Long Way
My wife, Barbara, wasn’t feeling well one day earlier this winter.
After talking to her doctor’s office on the phone, we decided to go to a local on-demand healthcare facility, CareWell Urgent Care in Marlborough, where she could get the quickest treatment possible.
We didn’t have to wait more than a few minutes before she was seen by two different nurses and thoroughly checked out.
Not only did she receive exceptional care at this facility, the medical team’s bedside manner was ridiculously awesome.
They spent a lot of time examining her as well as just plain comforting her.
They weren’t just extremely professional, they were incredibly personable as well.
BIG thanks to Kristen and Virginia, the two nurses who took care of Barbara during our visit.
You. Me. We can all learn a lot from this dynamic healthcare duo. Being good at what you do is one thing, being nice is another. Both are equally important. Affability matters as much as ability.
Every business and brand should care for its customers as well as this place cared for Barbara.
A good bedside manner goes such a long way, whether you’re in the healthcare field or not.
Be nice. Be kind. Be good to those around you in both your professional and personal lives.
Episode 92 - A Few Words with Sarah Ginand
In this episode – recorded on Thursday, January 16, 2020 – I talk to Sarah Ginand about her work as an independent marketing consultant and how she provides her clients with such exemplary service.
About Sarah Ginand (From Her LinkedIn Profile)
Proven strategic marketing consultant focused on helping small businesses grow. Recognized as a versatile leader with experience in driving marketing strategy, planning, execution, and implementation. Expertise finding innovative ways to present implementable solutions to clients in the areas of strategic marketing; market positioning, competitive analysis, process improvement, CRM, social media marketing, integrated marketing, corporate communications, and training, managing, and mentoring staff.
Episode 91 - How Close Are You to Your Customers and Prospects?
In business, we want to think of our customers and prospects as relationships, not transactions.
We want them to like and respect us, to think so highly of our businesses, brands, products and services, that they’re loyal to us forever.
We want them to feel close to us, to know that we’ve got their backs, that we’re listening to them, that we care about them, that we want them to be happy with everything they get from us.
I recently read a blog post written by Mark Schaefer in which he talked about something called parasocial relationships. As Mark explains in his post – which you can read here: https://businessesgrow.com/2019/12/12/parasocial-relationships – a phenomenon that started out in the ‘50s, with people feeling so close to the stars they watched on TV that they felt they were friends, is now associated with social media.
You. Me. Anybody can take advantage of this idea.
We may see it in ourselves as viewer, readers, listeners and consumers.
But as marketers, we can capitalize on it. We can use social media and other forms of communications to form long-lasting, mutually beneficial relationships with those on the receiving end of our content.
Episode 90 - Bad Ad, Good Ad
You’ve probably seen the ad. Surely you’ve heard about it.
I’m talking about the recent Peloton ad, the one where a woman is gifted a Peloton stationary bike by her husband and looks like she’s under pressure to use it.
For many reasons, it’s not a good ad, if you ask me, and it has received a ton of negative publicity. The ad comes across as sexist, insensitive and out of touch with reality.
In a word, clueless.
The star of this controversial ad, however, Monica Ruiz, reappeared very quickly on screen in an entirely different ad for Aviation American Gin, which was clearly poking fun at the Peloton ad.
This time around, she’s sitting at a bar with her friends, they toast to “new beginnings” and she guzzles her drink. Too funny.
Not only did Aviation American Gin (actor, Ryan Reynolds, apparently has a stake in the company) move fast in rolling out this spot, they newsjacked the Peloton ad debacle and went viral for all the right reasons. Their ad was timely, funny, topical and authentic.
Good for them. Good for Monica Ruiz. Not so good for Peloton.
Episode 89 - Humanize Your Brand
Real success in business is achieved when you use real people in marketing and sales, real people in real time being really honest with their audience.
When I saw Mark Schaefer speak earlier this year, he emphasized the importance of being human as marketers.
I saw Seth Godin a few months later, and he pointed out that human marketing takes time.
They're both right, of course. Consumers are tired of being bombarded by the constant cacophony of cries for their attention from brands.
There must be a better way to win friends and influence people in business.
That’s why I’m such a huge proponent of social media.
Social media levels the playing field, making it possible for companies to engage with consumers - and vice versa - as human beings. Social media keeps it real, allowing for discourse and disagreement, ensuring everybody has a voice, for better or worse. Social media, used correctly, works faster than you may realize to separate yourself from the competition, connect with your constituents and turn prospects into customers.
Put a face on your brand and a smile on your face. Put the social in social media to work for you today.
Episode 88 - The Future of Advertising...It's About to Get Real
To break through the clutter and win consumers over, advertising and marketing need to get real.
That’s what Bud Light did recently. During game five of the 2019 World Series, Washington Nationals fan, Jeff Adams, took a home run ball to the chest while holding on tightly to his two cold beers.
That’s when Bud Light sprang into action. Not only did they take quickly to Twitter to call attention to the moment, they tracked down the fan and by the next game, had him the star of a television campaign that featured the actual video footage of him being hit by the ball.
This scenario was remarkably well played by Bud Light, to say the least. Borrowing a page out of the social media handbook, they wasted no time in leveraging the equivalent of user-generated content (UGC) to take advantage of the moment. Including real people in real situations in real time (if possible) to connect with consumers...that's how all brands should be playing the advertising and marketing game today.
Episode 87 - People Don't Like Advertising and Marketing
I hate to break it to you, but people don’t want to be interrupted by advertising and marketing.
I know. That’s the last thing I want to hear, too, as I’ve earned my livelihood in this business for years.
But we can’t bury our heads in the sand. We can’t look the other way. We can’t say we weren’t warned.
Not after reading a recent article in The New York Times (“The Advertising Industry Has a Problem: People Hate Ads" (https://www.nytimes.com/2019/10/28/business/media/advertising-industry-research.html) that painted a very pessimistic picture of what my colleagues and I do for a living.
Consumers are turning off and tuning out, going so far as to pay extra to receive news, information and entertainment without being bothered by brands’ incessant cries for attention and engagement.
This is what I’ve been saying for a while now in my videos and presentations, advertisers and marketers have to change how they do business or else.
This is why I believe so strongly in social media, as it represents a much more authentic, credible way of communicating with our audience members.
Episode 86 - What's Your Goldfish?
"The goal of marketing is to capture the mind and ultimately conquer the heart of your target audience,” says Stan Phelps, CSP.
I couldn’t agree with him more.
Brands and businesses need to provide their customers and prospects with an exceptional experience they’ll remember for a long time and rave about among their own respective networks.
If you don’t know Stan, you’re missing out. He’s an acclaimed public speaker, a best-selling author, a rock star of a marketer and a great guy, too. He’s written a bunch of books about marketing using the goldfish as a symbol for that little something extra that makes a mighty big difference to the consumer.
What’s your goldfish?
What do you do differently to stand out from the competition?
Are you capturing the minds and conquering the hearts of those on the receiving end of your marketing messages?
Are you going above and beyond to provide those in your audience with a remarkable experience, one that will keep them coming back to you time and time again?
Episode 85 - A Few Words with Ed McDonough
In this episode - recorded on Friday, October 18, 2019 - I talk to Ed McDonough, Founder and President of ECE Marketing Services, about his new book, The Email Marketing Advantage, and a range of marketing-related topics and issues.
About Ed McDonough
Ed McDonough is a nationally recognized Email Marketing Consultant, Creator of the Quantum Email Marketing Platform, the author of The Complete Internet Marketing Strategy Guide, The Email Marketing Advantage and the founder of the marketing agency, ECE Marketing Services (established 2009).
Since 2001 Ed has been a successful entrepreneur and multi-business owner who has a unique talent for developing and implementing long-term profitable marketing strategies.
In addition to his business owner experience, Mr. McDonough spent over 25 years as a top-level Information Technology professional and Project Management Consultant in Corporate America, making him well versed in all facets of the business environment.
Ed is a graduate of the EPC Institute and the Expect Success Academy; he is a certified Email Marketing Specialist and Consultant.
Active in the local business community, Ed is an experienced business speaker who is engaging, informing, entertaining and educating. He tells it like it is and passionately shares his knowledge and real-life experiences with an open heart so the audience can take action and being growing their business as soon as they leave one of his seminars or workshops.
Mr. McDonough is also active in the local community. He is on the Board of Directors for the Friends of St. Patrick association in Walpole, MA and the former Chairman of the Board of the United Regional Chamber of Commerce, along with being a supporter of other local community-based organizations and events.
Ed currently works with companies to increase their cash flow, generated more revenue and maximize their profitability through the implementation of predictable, measurable and strategic email marketing business systems.
Contact Information: Ed McDonough Founder ECE Marketing Services 869 Main Street Suite 1 Walpole, MA 02081 508-296-5001
Episode 84 - A Few Words with Jeffrey DeSocio
In this episode - recorded on Thursday, October 3, 2019 - I talk to Jeffrey DeSocio, accomplished IT professional and well-known networking authority, about marketing, social media, Toastmasters, the Boston networking scene and even our shared passion for reading Rolling Stone magazine.
About Jeffrey DeSocio (In His Own Words from His LinkedIn Profile)
I am an accomplished Information Technology Leader and Strategic Professional with extensive experience leading information technology initiatives in retail, health care, high-technology, manufacturing, education management and financial services industries. I have demonstrated ability to impact the enterprise bottom line and performance through expert alignment of technologies with corporate mission. I have built talented teams, continuously providing members with training, support, resources, guidance, and motivation to exceed organizational objectives. I have a reputation for completing complex, multi-million dollar projects on time and within budget.
I am also the founder of Mass Professional Networking and Mass Tech Networking, which is one of Greater Boston's leading business networking groups with monthly events and business networking advisory services. The mission of the groups is to connect professionals and help build a resource to help further their careers and business.
I am also an accomplished digital and internet marketing professional with a rare blend of technology and marketing acumen. An avid public speaker, business networker & connector, with a goal of helping others in business through my knowledge, products, services & connections.
Episode 83 - A Few Words with Emilia Chagas
In this episode - recorded on September 27, 2019, at IEC Partners in Newton, Massachusetts - I talk to Emilia Chagas, co-founder and CEO of Contentools about her company, marketing, social media and much more.
About Emilia Chagas
Emilia Chagas is co-founder & CEO of Contentools.com, a content marketing platform that helps +1,200 marketing teams plan, create, distribute and analyze online content. As a content manager for over 8 years, Emilia has led video, book, and web-based content projects in both Enterprises and SMBs.
Episode 82 - Involve Your Customers in the Sales Process
The customer journey is one thing, the sales experience is another.
The process you go through in the delivery of your products and services is critical to making a customer for life.
Everyone who buys anything from you wants to get know the people behind the scenes, the hired hands and laborers, the engineers and artists, the managers and staffers, the gurus and geniuses.
The more they get to know you and your team, the more comfortable and confident they’ll feel doing business with you.
Don’t hide behind a corporate logo. Don’t work in secret.
Get out of the boardroom and into the field.
Whatever you do, whatever you sell, engage with your constituents and invite them into your world.
You’ll make more than a few bucks, you’ll make a lifelong fan.
P.S. Thanks to Kurt Brown and The Gallery Tattoo Studio in Concord, Massachusetts, not just for the ridiculously awesome tattoos, but for inspiring me to record this video about such a great lesson in sales.
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Episode 81 - A Few Words with Dave Matson
In this episode, I have a ridiculously awesome conversation with David Matson on the patio in front of the restaurant, 29 Rustic Mediterranean, in Sudbury. Dave is a digital marketer who specializes in SEO, lead generation, content strategy and social media. We talk about content marketing, SEO, community management on Facebook, even some of our favorite rock bands.
About David Matson (in Dave's Words, from his LinkedIn Profile)
Digital marketer focused on SEO, lead generation, content strategy, and social media.
I built a business that generated thousands of leads per month for criminal defense lawyers from organic search.
I am the founder and organizer of one of the largest and oldest SEO Meetup groups in the country. http://www.meetup.com/BostonSEO/
Episode 80 - Advertising is Everywhere
Advertising, marketing, PR and social media…all this is changing at breakneck speed.
What strategies and tactics worked for us a few years ago, or as recently as last year, could easily backfire on us today.
We can’t afford to have whatever messages we’re sharing with our own respective audiences be anything but relevant, timely, engaging and even amusing.
Never mind the glut of content people are trying to sort through and digest, many consumers, customers and clients won’t tolerate anything that even resembles a sales pitch anymore.
Stop begging for business and start earning that business.
Stop trying to fool those on the receiving end of your messages and start trying to help them.
Stop hitting listeners, viewers and readers over the head time and again and start listening to what they really want from you.
Stop ruining their experience with media they enjoy by interrupting them, underestimating them, talking down to them and yelling at them.
Whether you engage this way with your constituency is up to you, of course, but the choices you make in how you market to the masses could make or break your business in these transformative times.
Episode 79 - A Few Words with Jeff Copetas
In this episode - recorded at Out of Office in Hudson, Massachusetts - I talk with Jeff Copetas, Senior Director of Web and E-Commerce at Avid Technology, about dress codes in the workplace, homegrown videos, content marketing, social media, sales, advertising, Peter Frampton, Matthew McConaughey and much more.
My favorite quote of Jeff's from this episode? "Marketing is not 'buy my product anymore.'"
About Jeff Copetas
Jeff says, "I use my 20-plus years in E-Commerce, Digital Marketing and Social Media to help teams succeed and create value inside of organizations. And to have fun doing it, because that's just as important. Completely driven by data, conversion rate optimization, A/B testing and ALWAYS taking the perspective of the customer. Other than that, I am also a person. I love nonfiction books, ice cream, music and playing ice hockey. I’m a huge fan of long, hot showers and the Director of Web & ECommerce at Avid Technology."
Episode 78 - A Few Words with Peter Berson
In this episode - recorded on the outside front patio at 29 Rustic Mediterranean in Sudbury, MA - I talk with digital marketing professional, Peter Berson, about his partnership with the digital marketing agency network, WSI, and his thoughts on everything from social media to SEO, TikTok to Twitter, industry disruption to personal branding. Listen...
About Peter Berson (In His Own Words)
My name is Peter Berson, and I’ve been part of the WSI team for a year. Based out of Westford, Massachusetts, I enjoy living here because of the oceans, mountains, and the city of Boston.
When thinking about the skills I bring to our clients, I’d highlight that I’m a Strategist and tactician working with businesses in getting discovered on the internet since 1994. I’m the Director of a team of experts who create stand-out website designs and develop plans to help clients with online brand management.
In addition to my partnership with WSI, I have 25 years of experience working with high-tech startups. I have worked in development, quality assurance, pre/post-sales consulting, presenting products, and perfecting marketing skills. This extensive experience allows me to help your digital marketing needs with Responsive Web Design, SEO, Social, Business Analysis. Peter graduated from Framingham State College with a BS in Computer Science.
How would I describe my focus few words, "I'm a Marketing strategist helping identifying companies lead generation problem and the solution to solve it."
Aveli By WSI Westford, MA 01886 Phone 978-496-9176 Peter Berson, Principal Web: http://avelibywsi.com
Episode 77 - There's No Yabba Dabba Doo on Social Media
There’s no quitting time on social media.
There’s no signing off for the day.
We’re not talking about a routine, nine-to-five job, after all.
We’re talking about a job that requires you to be conspicuous in your presence day in and day out - nights, weekends and holidays, too.
You never know when your connections and customers are going to want to engage with you.
You have no idea when your followers are going to have a question for you.
If you’re out of sight, you’re out of mind when it comes to doing business on LinkedIn, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook and the like.
There’s no Yabba Dabba Doo on social media.
Episode 76 - Social Media Can Change the World
Far too many brands and businesses are trying to fit a square peg into a round hole on social media.
They’re using LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and the like as broadcast channels, places to promote themselves instead of to share and engage with others.
They're not posting nearly enough, either.
They're still not getting it.
Marketing, advertising, sales, PR, heck, whatever line of business you're in…it’s all changing rapidly before our very eyes. Consumers don’t believe anything anymore. So, transparency wins.
You want to have your audience’s attention? You want to earn their trust and loyalty? Stop manipulating them and start listening to them. Put yourself out there on a frequent basis and let them get to know you as a human being, not a corporate logo or a company executive.
Social media is a natural extension of ourselves, a documentation of who we are as people in both our professional and personal lives.
Social media can help you grow your business and your own personal brand.
Social media can educate, entertain and enlighten.
Social media can help, or it can hurt. It all depends on how we use it.
Social media can change the world.
Episode 75 - A Few Words with Julia Becker Collins
In this conversation, Julia and I talk about her role as Chief Operating Officer (COO) at Vision Advertising, her "work hard, play hard" spirit, her accomplishments as an athlete and the many challenges she's faced in both her personal and professional lives.
About Julia Becker Collins (from Vision Advertising's website at https://www.vision-advertising.com/julia-becker-collins-chief-operating-officer/)
Julia Becker Collins is the Chief Operating Officer here at Vision Advertising. If Vision Advertising was a wheel, Julia would be the hub on which everything turns. She leads all aspects of the company, from developing and implementing the marketing plans of clients to managing the operations of all of Vision’s staff. Under her leadership, this marketing agency continues to grow, bringing on new staff and clients. Julia runs Vision Advertising and is the primary point of contact for everything from new clients to her growing staff.
Before joining Vision Advertising in 2016 as the Vice President of Marketing & Operations, Julia already had 12 years of experience in marketing, event planning, and fundraising in the corporate and nonprofit world, including strategy and implementation of inbound and outbound marketing, national trade shows, public speaking, social media management, direct marketing, Salesforce administration, and website creation.
Previously, Julia was the Director of Marketing at Boston Color Graphics, a full-service marketing firm that specializes in fundraising marketing solutions for nonprofits across the U.S. She has also worked with notable nonprofits in the Boston area, such as Temple Emanuel and Hyde Square Task Force, where she focused on communications strategy and implementation, public relations, fundraising events, capital campaigns, major gifts, and restructuring departmental systems.
Julia is also the Founding President (emeritus) & Co-Founder of the MetroWest Women’s Network, a group of ambitious local women that work together to meet their goals. 2,400 members and counting, the Network is comprised of an active online community and monthly offline events that support local women-owned businesses and offers networking opportunities for women at all stages of their careers.
Julia holds an MPA from Framingham State University and a BA from the University of Massachusetts Amherst. She was awarded the Distinguished Alum Award by the University of Massachusetts Amherst’s Women, Gender, and Sexuality Department in May 2016.
Julia brings both her entrepreneurial spirit and own brand of women’s support and empowerment to her work and play. At Vision Advertising, she mentors female staff and business owners to succeed at their work and life. She regularly speaks at women in business events hosted by her network and in the greater Massachusetts area in conferences and seminars on topics from women in business to marketing strategies. Julia is also an avid volunteer, especially with her alma maters.
Julia has always been about overcoming obstacles. When a major illness struck her in 2014, Julia was in and out of the BIDMC Emergency Room. After recovering from a serious surgery in which three of her organs were removed, she decided not only to get back to her previous health, but to exceed it. 5 years later, Julia has thousands of hours and miles behind her as an athlete, training and competing in Spartan Races such as the Sprint, Super, and Beast – and has started doing all three twice as the Spartan Double Trifecta. All on top of regular running, bootcamps, strength training, barre, and yoga classes. Julia embodies the “work hard, play hard” spirit of Vision Advertising.
Episode 74 - Personalities as Publishers
Thanks to social media, every brand and business today is a publisher. The people within those organizations are usually the ones who are responsible for those publishing efforts, though. They are the rock stars, the lead magnets, the only way – in many cases – their employers would have any worthwhile content to share with their constituents in the first place.
I listened to a ridiculously awesome podcast recently, the Digiday Podcast hosted by Brian Morrissey, in which the host spoke to Barstool Sports’ CEO, Erika Nardini. You can listen to this episode here: https://digiday.com/podcast/barstool-sports-erika-nardini-barstool-aims-hit-100m-revenue-2020/
Among other things, Nardini talked about the success of her company’s many podcasts, monetizing content and building a subscription business that isn’t necessarily dependent on advertising.
“Personalities are the new publishers,” she said at one point during this conversation.
Personally, I’m not a fan of Barstool Sports, but the marketer in me sees them doing something anyone who wants to build a loyal following on social media should be doing today.
Hire people with skills, expertise and talent, of course. But hire people with personalities, too, industry thought leaders who others look up to and admire.
If you give them autonomy to engage with your audience authentically, transparently and as frequently as possible, you may get more attention than you ever imagined.
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Episode 73 - Stop Trying To Be Somebody Else
Stop trying to be somebody else in your marketing and advertising campaigns.
Stop trying to be somebody else. Period.
Just be yourself in both your professional and personal lives.
The most successful communication takes place transparently and authentically.
Anybody who wants anybody else to do anything will appeal more to those on the receiving end of their messages if they don’t put on airs, if they don’t try to sell.
Of course, you need to put yourself out there if you want to call attention to what you have to offer.
You can’t be inconspicuous. You can't be shy.
But don’t overthink your presentation, don’t make like it’s an act.
Your products and services should speak for themselves in the business world.
Your actions will speak louder than your words in all walks of life.
You need to earn your audience’s trust before you can earn their respect, admiration and business.
You need to be yourself.
Episode 72 - A Few Words with Michelle Mercier
During this ridiculously awesome conversation (recorded at Out of Office in Hudson, Massachusetts), Michelle and I talk about corporate America, her role as a business coach, personal growth, marketing, social media and much more. Listen...
About Michelle Mercier (from Michelle's LinkedIn Profile)
Michelle Mercier is an international best-selling author, engaging speaker, passionate coach, and experienced business consultant. Her mission is to help individuals and organizations develop a vision and successfully execute the steps necessary to make that vision a reality.
Michelle has 15+ years of corporate and professional experience. She has worked with a wide range of different businesses – from nationally acclaimed non-profits to Fortune 500 corporations. This wide experience has enabled her to become an expert in leadership, change management, operations, marketing, and technology. She also possesses an expertise in training and professional development.
In addition to her coaching/consulting practice, Michelle is the CEO/Founder of Create Honesty, as well as the Managing Director of the Worcester Area Chapter of Polka Dot Powerhouse.
Episode 71 - The End of Advertising As We Know It
I’m not going to lie. Advertising is interruptive.
Advertising is annoying.
Advertising is a waste of time unless you’re doing it differently than you did back in the day.
You can only throw so much money into advertising before those on the receiving end are going to completely ignore you.
I read a ridiculously awesome article written by Frank McKinley recently, "Why Advertising Doesn’t Work." You can read it for yourself on Medium here: https://medium.com/publishous/why-advertising-doesnt-work-51eb21df575c
In this article, Frank talks about how much the world has changed and how ineffective “buying interruptions” is these days.
Stop the insanity, I say.
Personally, I love advertising.
I love marketing.
I love social media.
But the same old same old simply isn't working anymore.
You. Me. Everyone of us in this business has to concentrate more on authenticity, creativity, transparency and immediacy.
Enough with the smoke and mirrors.
Enough with the clever hacks and chicanery.
Enough with the monstrous budgets.
If you ask me, just being yourself is the best advertising you can buy today.
Episode 70 - Share the News on Social Media
I can’t tell you how many people, businesses and brands tell me they don’t know what to say on social media.
They’re speechless. They’re at a loss for words.
There are countless things to say, of course, but the first thing I tell them is to just share the news.
Share the news about what’s going on in both your professional and personal lives.
Share the news about your products and services.
Share the news about your colleagues, clients and customers.
Share the news about your hobbies and interests, family and friends.
Share the news about the community in which you work or live.
News travels fast on social media. It's where more and more people are turning to get their news, too.
Don’t ever worry about what to say on social media. Just share the news.
Episode 69 - Age Doesn't Matter on Social Media
Age doesn’t matter on social media.
In a recent issue of AARP The Magazine, there’s a series of profiles on “older Americans” who are crushing it on social media.
People like Lili Hayes, Scott Wadsworth, Herbie Russ, Irvin Randle, Judith Boyd, Angie Schmitt and others. You can read the article in its entirety here: https://www.aarp.org/home-family/friends-family/info-2019/influencers-over-50.html
These people are looked up to like rock stars and celebrities on YouTube, Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. They’re influencers and authorities, thought leaders and entertainers, gurus and trendsetters.
And yes, they’re all over 50 – like me.
Age doesn’t matter on social media.
Age shouldn’t matter anywhere.
Nobody should be looked at differently because they are older than you.
No one should be judged, stereotyped, underestimated or treated unfairly because of their age, young or old. There are no boundaries to talent and ability.
There are no limits to what people can do in both their personal and professional lives.
Age doesn’t matter on social media.
Age shouldn’t matter anywhere. Period.
Episode 68 - A Few Words with Lysa Miller
In this episode, I talk to Lysa about everything from her agency, 3 Media Web, to the town in which she lives and works, Hudson, Massachusetts. Lysa is someone who believes strongly in helping people, and so much of what she says during our conversation is - indeed - so helpful and inspirational. From marketing to social media, volunteerism to leadership, we cover a lot in a little more than 30 minutes. Listen...
About Lysa Miller (In Her Own Words from Her LinkedIn Profile)
I love people and I love helping people at heart. So when you put that into your job, it's pretty amazing. Whether it is a business referral, an introduction, including everyone in a social event, or cooking for someone in need, my love for people goes into everything I do. Because you have to do what you love, I put that into my job at 3 Media Web where I am a Partner and Co-founder, and VP of Business Development.
It was natural to become an entrepreneur because of my love for helping people and the energy it gives me. I grew my own business (Ladybugz.com) by helping people promote their businesses, solve their challenges, and helping them to do what they love as a business. Although for many years I have worked in the capacities of a web designer, project manager, SEO guru, marketer and social media maven, it's now my time to focus on growing my own business at a higher level.
After a merger with 3 Media web, I found my way out of daily operations and now rely on my amazing team here at 3 Media Web to create innovative web solutions for our clients. Daily, our team continues to blow me away with their capabilities. I am truly blessed to be doing what I love, helping people, and working with such an amazing team of digital rockstars!
So now, it's all about meeting more people, the right people and helping them find the right solution for their businesses, specifically in B2B, manufacturing, biotech, IOT and high-tech. If they are not a good fit for my company then I will find them a great reliable partner to count on.
Writing and PR have always been a passion and I continue to provide thought leadership on clutch.co, and write about businesses in our region on massvacation.com I have been featured in Entrepreneur.com, Fortune.com, MSN Money, CIO and Business Insider for my insights into women and entrepreneurship, business growth, and digital-related topics.
Feel free to connect with me, cause you know, I love meeting people.
Episode 67 - Marketing is Supporting
Marketing today is as much about supporting people as it is about changing their minds.
In a blog post recently (which you can read here: https://businessesgrow.com/2019/04/15/seth-godin/), Mark Schaefer “politely” disagrees with something from Seth Godin's latest book, This Is Marketing: You Can't Be Seen Until You Learn To See.
I previewed some of Seth’s book online, but I haven’t read it in its entirety.
According to Mark, though, Seth writes, “Marketers make change.” Yet Mark feels differently. He feels that marketers should be “coming alongside” customers, not changing them.
I think they’re both right. I think that by supporting our customers, clients and constituents, we have a better chance of wining them over and earning their business.
Frankly, I have always agreed with anything either of these iconic, grandmasters of marketing say. And that's not going to change now.
What about you?
Do you think marketing should be about helping your audience or about changing them? Or can it be both at the same time?
What do YOU think?
Episode 66 - Use Social Media Like John Legere
He is outgoing and outspoken, transparent and transformative.
He is not afraid to put himself out there and show he’s human just like us. He is a ridiculously awesome example of how senior-level business executives should use social media, if you ask me.
He is John Legere, CEO of T-Mobile.
Not only does he know how to call attention to himself and the company he presides over, he is also very thoughtful of others, altruistic and philanthropic.
In fact, this super successful UMass Amherst grad recently raised $4.5 million for Boston’s Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, thanks in large part to the large, loyal following he has on social media.
John Legere knows what he’s doing, folks, in the C suite and on social media.
Follow him and learn from the best.
Episode 65 - A Few Words with Cindy Moore
Cindy and I got together for coffee recently at Peet's Coffee in Sudbury, Massachusetts, where we talked about her role as a health and wellness coach, how she uses marketing and social media (especially her blog, For the Run of It) to promote Isagenix products (dietary supplements, etc.), running and more. Listen...
About Cindy Moore
Lifestyle Guidance My own journey began with changing my nutrition and has led to fantastic results; going from a typical couch potato to a triathlete. This enables me to bring a high level of empathy, respect, and understanding. I know where you are coming from, because I was there!
Wellness Experience I have experienced an amazing life change and can coach you on all I have learned during the process. My client success stories reflect my ability to, time after time, help clients improve their health and achieve a higher level of life satisfaction.
Active Coaching My experience of growing from a non-athlete to a triathlete, along with my husband's years as a marathon runner, allow us to provide you, the client, with the tools and methods you need to find your results and achieve your goals.
Visit Cindy's website at http://www.fortherunofit.info/
Episode 64 - A Few Words with Susan McKenney and Tom Libby
In this episode, I talk to Susan McKenney and Tom Libby, co-founders of Smarketing Connect, an online guide that connects the local startup and small business community with marketing and sales resources (https://www.smarketingconnect.com/).
Susan McKenney
Susan has a passion for connecting people and giving referrals. Susan is a co-founder of Diversified Sales Solutions and Smarketing Connect. She helps small companies and startups achieve improve results through Sales performance, planning & management,. She works to improve sales representatives business goals by sales enablement and sales process improvement. Her specific niche is teaching and training on the power of Networking and Referral based selling. She most recently helped launch the Smarketing Connect to address the close relationship and need for Sales and Marketing in small businesses and startups using Local Sales and Marketing Professionals. She is a former Sales professional with over twenty years of experience across many industries. Her background includes executive sales management, sales team creation, sales training. Susan has helped recruit and build sales organizations, creating direct selling teams. She has developed and conducted "custom" sales and product training programs for small companies and startups. She has consulted many small businesses in MA in the last six years.
Tom Libby
Tom is a seasoned Sales VP and Business Development Executive. He is a Co-Founder of the SmarketingInstitute.Org and also the CEO of Diversified Sales Solutions, Inc., a firm that provides outsourced sales solutions. Getting Sales strategy right is part vocation, part mission for Tom. Over the past 18 years Tom has developed his management, leadership, and sales skills in diverse industries and includes experiences in startups, small companies up to and including fortune 500 companies. He has received numerous awards and accolades during his career. He is a business professional with demonstrated results, as well as the ability to produce in high pressure situations. Today, Tom uses his sales & management experience to deliver interim management, training and coaching to small companies.
Episode 63 - A Few Words with Jordan Mackey, Elizabeth Rose and Scott Myles
It was a pleasure to speak with chef Jordan Mackey - who will soon be reopening what was formerly known as the restaurant, 29 Sudbury, as Twenty-Nine Rustic Mediterranean - along with marketing consultant, Elizabeth Rose, and investor, Scott Myles.
During this conversation, we addressed everything from the new restaurant's menu to its renovations and decor, not to mention how Jordan and his team are using marketing and social media to get the word out about his exciting, new dining digs. Listen and enjoy...
Episode 62 - A Few Words with Katelin Cwieka
I met Kate last year at a marketing conference in Boston after having seen her on Twitter as @BankSmartKATE. I've been very happy to be able to stay in touch with her ever since, especially knowing how much we have in common from social media to running to both being graduates of Framingham's Leadership MetroWest.
In this conversation, Kate and I talk about her many important social media responsibilities on behalf of Avidia bank, including the distribution of both paid and organic content, the scheduling and automation of a comprehensive content calendar for the bank's different branch locations, real-time publishing, a brand ambassador program, community outreach and much more. Listen and enjoy...
Kate Cwieka, VP – Social Media and Brand Communications Manager, Avidia Bank
This social media marketing maven got her start with her own fashion and event blog. After working as a freelancer and agency, she moved on to the financial marketing life at Avidia Bank.
Kate isn’t limited to marketing and banking. Kate is a lover of music and IPAs, so you may have even heard that she coordinated a beer collaboration between Avidia Bank and a local brewery which was launched at a music festival! Her quest is to find ways she can make Avidia stand out in the market, usually through a long, thought out PR Stunt. You can follow her on Twitter and Instagram at @BankSmartKATE.
Episode 61 - A Few Words with Jeffrey Gordon
I met Jeffrey just a few months ago through a mutual friend of ours - thanks, Lysa - in Hudson, Massachusetts. We have done a little volunteering together for a local nonprofit organization and we both have "residencies" in our respective areas of expertise at a new co-working facility in Hudson called Out of Office.
During this conversation, I ask Jeff questions about his company, Ideal Video Strategies, how he helps his clients take their video production to the next level, personal branding, social media, marketing and more. Listen...
About Jeffrey Gordon
Jeffrey Gordon had been working in the corporate world for over 10 years and was was looking for a more satisfying career. After lots of thought and discussion with his wife, Krista, Jeff decided to take the risk of starting his own company, Ideal Video Strategies. His desire to make a difference in people’s lives and be more active in his community has spearheaded this undertaking.
Jeff has a Master’s Degree in Education Media Design from Full Sail University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Digital Recording Arts from New England Institute of Technology. He is a certified expert in Adobe Premiere Pro and has won multiple Telly Awards and AVA Digital Awards for his work.
When not working, Jeff enjoys spending time with his wife and two young kids, Caitlyn and Alex. They keep him pretty busy! He also likes to spend time in his gardens, growing flowers and vegetables. He considers himself to have a very green thumb!
Episode 60 - Your Brand Is Not What You Say You Are
If you think you define your own brand, think again.
Your customers, clients and connections define your brand. They say what your brand is, not you.
Do you practice what you preach?
Do your actions match your words?
Do you not just talk the talk, but walk the walk, too?
The best brands among us live, breathe, work and play what they say they are day in and day out, time and time again.
They don’t rest on their laurels.
They don’t ever stop evolving.
They listen to their audience’s feedback and don’t just meet but exceed their expectations.
Whatever they have to offer – products, services, advice, support, you name it – is always more than appreciated by those on the receiving end.
P.S. How can I help YOU? Branding. Social media. Copywriting. Content. You name it. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me at Cargill123@gmail.com. Anytime.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobcargill/
http://thebobcargill.com/
https://twitter.com/cargillcreative
Episode 59 - Are You a Hyperleader?
Are you a hyperleader?
Do you know someone who is a hyperleader?
I heard about this term for the first time in an article I read recently by Paolo Gerbaudo for the New Statesman ("The age of the hyperleader: when political leadership meets social media celebrity" https://www.newstatesman.com/politics/media/2019/03/age-hyperleader-when-political-leadership-meets-social-media-celebrity).
Paolo uses the term in referring to certain types of politicians who may be more popular than the parties they represent and are particularly adept at using social media to engage with their constituents.
I’m using the term in referring to people you and I may know in the business world.
These are people who can be game-changers.
They can single-handedly attract more attention to the brands and businesses they represent than those entities can themselves.
These are people you want on your side.
These are people you want working on your behalf.
Episode 58 - A Few Words with Jamie Bradley
I've known Jamie for a long time, as our paths have crossed regularly over the years at Boston-area marketing events. We're both experienced veterans in the industry and big believers in time-tested, traditional business principles, but we are also proponents of digital marketing and early adopters of social media.
In this conversation - which took place outdoors on an early March morning in Newton Upper Falls along the fast-flowing Charles River - we talk about what channels and formats work best in marketing today, including direct mail, print, email and yes, of course, social media. Listen...
Jamie Bradley
Jamie has spent over 30 years working with organizations to produce communications materials, starting in 1977 as an entry level graphic designer for the daily newspaper at the University of Massachusetts Amherst.
Having spent many years as an account executive for various web and sheet fed printing companies selling their limited capabilities, he moved into outsourced print management services so he could more effectively address the individual needs of his clients. This included positions at companies that also produced embroidered apparel and promotional products, where he developed Print On Demand web sites and branded Company Web Stores.
Jamie has been the winner of both regional and international printing awards, has been published in various business journals and newsletters, and invited to speak before industry events, college design students and corporate marketers on printing technologies.
Episode 57 - A Few Words with Jill C. Baker
The springboard for this episode with author, Jill. C. Baker, was her Sutherland Series books, each of which is centered (according to Jill's website http://jillcbakerauthor.com/) "around the family of Sarah Sutherland - an average woman, a working mom, someone not too different from most of us - other than in her ability to transcend time."
In this conversation, we talk about what has gone into the writing of these books - characterized, again, according to Jill's website, as "historical fiction with a touch of paranormal" - as well as the marketing of them, including the use of social media.
Jill takes us behind-the-scenes of her publishing process, sharing a number of great tips and anecdotes that will interest anyone who wants to see their own book to fruition.
She also talks candidly about how much she has learned herself as a new author and the unique challenges of promoting her own work.
Later in our chat, we are joined by our mutual friend, Scott Myles, who has a lot to say about what Jill has written so far as a reader and, yes, fan.
Thanks, Scott, for adding so many good points to our discussion, including a number of tips and suggestions for increasing Jill's book sales.
And, of course, thank you, Jill!
I know both Jill and Scott, by the way, from a networking group I co-founded in Sudbury (MA) nearly eight years ago with Phil Hollows called the Sudbury Social Tweetup, a monthly event for those interested in social media and marketing.
Episode 56 - Don't Be a One-Trick Pony on Social Media
Don’t be a one-trick pony on social media.
Unless it’s the only place your audience can be found, don’t spend an inordinate amount of time on just one channel at the expense of others.
LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, etc.…you want to be working the crowd in a multitude of places. You want to be diversifying your efforts.
Once you've tested and learned where you get the biggest bang for your buck, you want to focus there, of course. But you don’t want to overlook the importance of having a presence elsewhere at the same time.
You never know where you’re going to get the most traction down the road. You may think you’re getting good results where you are now, but you have no idea how many opportunities you could be missing elsewhere.
Don't be satisfied with success on just one channel.
Don't give short shrift to your options.
Don’t be a one-trick pony.
Episode 55 - Check In With Others
Check in with your customers, clients, colleagues, connections and constituents.
Check in with your friends and family, even complete strangers.
I recently had a ridiculously awesome breakfast at J&M Diner in Framingham, Massachusetts, with my wife, Barbara, my sister, Cathy, and my mom.
The food was delicious.
The service was impeccable.
While waiting to be seated, I noticed a sign for employees that reminded them to “check in with tables.” Underneath that line, it listed the following three questions…
How are you?
How's everything?
Can I get you anything else?
And then, in all caps with two asterisks on each side, was the word, “SMILES.”
What’s written on that sign is something ALL businesses and brands should heed.
All of us should be checking in with our tables, so to speak, in both our professional and personal lives.
We should always be asking people around us how they are doing and if we can help them in any way whatsoever.
That would be good for business.
That would be good for everyone in so many ways.
You. Me. All of us should take a cue from the people who work at J&M Diner and be kind, courteous, helpful and friendly.
Episode 54 - Hold Yourself Accountable on Social Media
Hold yourself accountable on social media.
Be conspicuous in your presence on LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, YouTube and the like.
Don’t be missing in action.
Be alert and attentive, engaging and enlightening.
This is not a virtual existence we’re talking about, this is reality.
This is where your customers, connections and constituents expect to interact with you.
This is where your friends, family, followers and fans look for you.
Businesses, brands, you, me…we’re all accountable to one another on social media in 2019 and beyond.
If we’re out of sight on social media, we’re out of mind.
Don’t be invisible. Don’t be shy. Don’t be indiscernible. Don’t be hush-hush.
Share and share alike on social media.
Be generous and kind.
Give as much as you take on social media. Hold yourself accountable there.
Episode 53 - You've Got to Work It on Social Media
It took K-Pop star, Kang Daniel, only 11 hours and 36 minutes recently to attract a following of one million on Instagram.
That was a Guinness World Record, eclipsing the previous record set by Pope Francis.
I wouldn’t be able to build a following that big in a lifetime, never mind in half a day. And - likely - neither would you.
Unless you’re a celebrity, a popular brand or someone who can afford a big advertising budget, there are no shortcuts to success on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, LinkedIn and the like.
It takes time, talent and tenacity to build a following on social media.
You’ve got to share plenty of relevant, quality content on a regular basis to build enough of an audience to be successful on social media.
There are no shortcuts, no hacks, no secrets, no magic bullets.
You've got to work it on social media.
P.S. How can I help YOU? Social media. Copywriting. Content creation. Public speaking. You name it. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me at Cargill123@gmail.com. Anytime.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobcargill/
http://thebobcargill.com/
https://twitter.com/cargillcreative
Episode 52 - When Social Media Catches Fire
No other media comes close to social media’s potential to build buzz almost instantaneously and amplify content to the point where it goes viral.
I recently watched the Netflix documentary, “Fyre: The Greatest Party That Never Happened,” and found it to be as exasperating as it was entertaining.
So many people were hurt in so many ways, especially financially and emotionally.
Not only did a group of popular celebrity influencers promote Fyre Festival on social media, but music fans who shelled out big bucks to attend this epic flop used social media, too, to get the word out about their miserable experience there.
Yup, social media can giveth and social media can taketh away.
For better or worse, social media can catch fire. Use it with care. Use it for good.
Episode 51 - Selfies on Social Media
Selfies are being taken everywhere.
People are taking selfies at ballgames and concerts, at the beach and the dinner table, while parachuting and ziplining, in voting booths and business meetings.
Selfies are ridiculously popular in the era we’re in, a time when technology and culture have collided to make sharing pictures online both easy and customary.
Businesses and brands would be smart to capitalize on this trend, if they are not already. Selfies are a great way to engage not just your employees and colleagues, but your customers and prospects.
Look all around you. Everybody likes selfies.
P.S. Let me know how I can help you with selfies, social media, copywriting, content, public speaking...you name it. Anytime. You can reach out to me at Cargill123@gmail.com. Thanks!
P.P.S. Thanks to Podbean for being so ridiculously awesome!
Episode 50 - Honor Your Audience
How do you honor your audience?
How do you give thanks to your followers, fans and friends?
How do you show your customers and prospects how much you appreciate their loyalty, support and business?
On New Year’s Day this year, the Boston Bruins played the Chicago Blackhawks in the NHL (National Hockey League) Winter Classic at the legendary Notre Dame Stadium.
Some 76,000 fans or so were in attendance to see a ridiculously awesome game which the Bruins ended up winning, 4-2, over the Blackhawks.
After the game was over, both teams took turns saluting the massive crowd by holding their hockey sticks in the air. It was the players’ way of saying “thanks for you support. We couldn’t have done it without you.”
Great gesture. Great example.
You may not play hockey for the Boston Bruins, but you can still honor your audience similarly. Maybe not by raising a hockey stick in the air, but you can show appreciation to your constituency by giving them a shout-out online, treating them to lunch, profiling them in your newsletter, sending them a handwritten thank-you note...you name it.
There are countless ways you can honor your audience like the Bruins and the Blackhawks honored theirs.
P.S.
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