Against the Grain

Jon and Nic return after a short hiatus to talk through chapter 10 of Against the Grain, focused on hosting and attending events. The episode also shifts into Nic’s Mash, where the conversation turns to AI, how it is changing day-to-day work, and what it means to adapt when an industry changes fast. Jon and Nic cover event strategy from both the book and real life, including book launches, distillery tours, community giveaways, and industry events. They also compare notes on using AI as a practical tool for research, analysis, and marketing, while stressing the need to verify results and stay flexible.

Jon and Nic sit down with Kim Bartley for a wide-ranging conversation about Jon’s upcoming book, the ideas behind it, and why the book’s themes resonate with real-world businessexperience. Kim brings a strong marketing lens from her 31-plus years at White Castle and her decade of teaching at Ohio State, giving the discussion practical weight and perspective.

They cover the book as a whole, including constraints, adaptability, reputation, and the discipline required to turnentrepreneurial vision into something real. Along the way, the conversation branches into branding, feedback, work-life harmony, and how memorable products and experiences stick with people.

Jon and Nic talk through how products gain momentum when they travel together, with examples from retail, software, and food pairings like chicken and waffles. They also cover how substitution can open new markets, why anticipation matters before launch, and why leaders should stay close to frontline execution.

Jon and Nic welcome guest Ryan Berry, founder of Berry Digital Solutions and part of the team behind the Logan County Chronicle, to discuss the importance of product placement. Together, the group connects advertising, storytelling, and real-world examples from phones, bourbon, newspapers, and movie placements.

Jon and Nic welcome their first guest, Kevin Morron, for a conversation about brand story, authenticity, and how personal identity shows up in work, recruiting, and even Bigfoot fandom. The episode centers on the idea that marketing earns attention while branding earns trust, then follows that thread through real examples from the Coast Guard, manufacturing, leathercraft, and sales.

Jon and Nic dive into the core of what makes outcomes predictable and reliable. Nic shares how accountability transforms mere routines into powerful drivers of results, whether in farming, moonshining, or business. They explore why many entrepreneurs stumble by winging it, and how crafting clear, repeatable processes, like sales systems and quality checks, can turn chaos into achievement. Plus, they reveal why embracing feedback, even negative reviews, is essential in refining your approach for better outcomes.

champaignshine.com

Starting a new venture can be exhilarating, but why do some businesses thrive while others fizzle out? Often, enthusiasm acts as the initial spark that propels entrepreneurs forward. However, sustaining that momentum requires more. It demands understanding, realistic expectations, and strategic focus. In this episode, Jon and Nic explore how enthusiasm fuels growth, why understanding your market and yourself is crucial, and the importance of intentional planning for long-term success.

Jon and Nic explore the powerful influence of reputation over advertising, emphasizing how your brand's image travels faster and further than any marketing message. They discuss real-world examples and practical strategies for cultivating a strong reputation that sustains business success.

Get more at champaignshine.com

Jon and Nic share personal stories, business insights, and a few laughs while diving into lessons learned from moonshine mishaps and the importance of purpose in your work.

Jon and Nic explore the power of taking risks, the importance of paying attention to detail, and challenging the status quo to foster innovation. They share personal stories, including Jon’s journey with Buffalo Trace, and practical advice on asking for what you want. Get info about the book Against the Grain at champaignshine.com.