In this episode, I sit down with Mark Gutierrez, founder of Mind Shift Mark and a powerhouse in the real estate photography scene. Based in Chicago, Mark has photographed over 12,000 homes, built three successful revenue streams, and is renowned as both an industry leader and mentor for creative entrepreneurs.

This episode is packed with stories from Mark’s unconventional journey, from a draftsman who struggled in school, to roller rink owner, and eventually to top-tier real estate photographer. You’ll hear about the bold decisions that shaped his career, the importance of tracking data, and how balancing creativity with smart business thinking helped Mark avoid burnout and create lasting partnerships.

If you’re a creative entrepreneur, new or seasoned, you’ll get practical insights on finding your unique value, building a brand that stands out, and why embracing both your art and business savvy is key to long-term growth.

Here are my favorite takeaways for creative entrepreneurs drawn from our conversation:

• Track Your Data Religiously: Mark credits much of his success to tracking every job, client, and outcome. When you let data guide your decisions, you learn which clients and services to focus on, and which ones to let go.

• Balance Your Art with Business Savvy: The happiest & most successful creatives know how to deliver a product they’re proud of and foster genuine client relationships. Leaning too far into "being an artist" or running things too corporate can hurt your growth and client retention.

• Create Strategic Separation: Mark's memorable personal brand (think vests and professionalism!) and unique approach helped set him apart in a crowded market. Find what differentiates you—not just in price, but in value and experience—and lean into it.

Connect with Mark

Website: Mindshiftmark.com

Connect with Angela:

• Instagram: @beboldbranding
• Website: beboldbranding.com
• LinkedIn: Angela Merzib

Download Angela's Free Guide: "Turn Clicks Into Clients" https://sendfox.com/lp/m7nk2v

In this episode we’re joined by Matthew Rawle, writer, strategist, and marketer who’s done chasing growth for growth’s sake. 

Matthew helps consultants build real relationships through newsletters and podcasts, and he’s making a bold case for slowing down to win bigger. In this episode, we talk about why relying on social media and search algorithms is a risky game, how short-term metrics quietly sabotage long-term success, and what happens when you choose depth over scale.

In this episode, we dive into slowing down to build real relationships in marketing, uncovering insights on standing out in a noisy, AI-saturated world and reimagining how solopreneurs and founders connect with their audience.

💡 Top 3 Takeaways:
1️⃣ Why simplicity and candor are powerful forces in connecting with clients (and how to overcome the curse of knowledge!)
2️⃣ Strategies for building trust and long-term business success in a landscape overwhelmed by algorithms
3️⃣ The practical steps to owning your audience—through newsletters, podcasts, and genuine two-way communication

With so much pressure to “play the algorithm,” taking the slower road—by building trust and being truly useful—might just be your boldest move yet.

Connect with Matthew:

Website: www.matthewrawle.com

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-rawle/

Connect with Angela:

• Instagram: @beboldbranding
• Website: beboldbranding.com
• LinkedIn: Angela Merzib

Download Angela's Free Guide: "Turn Clicks Into Clients" https://sendfox.com/lp/m7nk2v

In this episode of Bold Moves, we sat down with the incredible Jessica Freeman, a woman whose journey takes “pivoting” to a whole new level! From classical organist to crypto tax strategist, Jessica’s story is an inspiring lesson in curiosity, resilience, and embracing change.

Here’s what you’ll find inside this issue:

🌍 Discovering a Niche—And Running With It:
Once COVID struck and her life did a 180, Jessica stumbled upon a major gap: most investors had no idea how to handle the tricky world of crypto taxes. She and a partner created a course, started teaching—and soon, were doing the taxes themselves!

🤯 Crypto Myths + Practical Advice:
Jessica debunks one of the biggest crypto tax myths: “No one needs to know about your crypto!” Spoiler alert: Governments worldwide are catching on fast. She urges everyone to be proactive—reporting everything, keeping solid records, and never falling for “invisible asset” thinking.

🛡️ Staying Safe in the Crypto Wild West:
From pig-butchering scams on social media to tricky fake websites, Jessica dishes out real-world safety tips. You’ll learn why bookmarking sites and double-checking app legitimacy can save you thousands (plus a whole lot of stress).

💡 Entrepreneurs & Crypto Payments:
Curious about accepting crypto in your business? Jessica explains risks, practical steps, and why working with well-known services (like Coinbase or Stripe) might be a smart “toe-dip” before managing your own wallet.

Featured Free Resource:
Claim Jessica’s free guide to get started with crypto taxes and learn about her Blockchain Wallet Challenge https://gift.betavirtualassistance.com/BoldMoves

Connect with Jessica online:

Website

https://secure.betavirtualassistance.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BetaVirtualAssistance

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/betavirtualassistance/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/beta-virtual-assistance/ 

X: https://x.com/BetaVirtualAsst

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Connect with Angela:

• Instagram: @beboldbranding
• Website: beboldbranding.com
• LinkedIn: Angela Merzib

Download Angela's Free Guide: "Turn Clicks Into Clients" https://sendfox.com/lp/m7nk2v

I sat down with Cerys Thompson, communication strategist, keynote speaker, and founder of CT Communications. We chat about her unexpected battle with blood cancer at age 30 and rebuilding her life and launching a business in Canada. Cerys’ story is all about embracing life’s plot twists and learning to communicate with true intention.

Episode Highlights:

• Overcoming the Odds:
  At 30, Cerys was given just a 30% chance of surviving a rare blood cancer. Her journey through cutting-edge CAR T therapy, and how she maintained hope, positivity, and humor through it all, is absolutely moving.

• The Power of Plan C:
  When life forced a dramatic detour, Cerys found herself forging a new path—not the original Plan A or B, but an unexpected and wonderful Plan C that led to a new country, a new career, and a new outlook on life.
• Leaping Before You’re Ready:
  Why waiting for the “perfect plan” can hold you back—and how breaking big steps into manageable pieces can move you forward.

• Communication Tips for Leaders & Entrepreneurs:
  Cerys shares her top tips for communicating with clarity and impact:

• Always start by asking WHY—intention before action.

• Frame your message with “What do I want people to know, feel, and do?”

• Keep your message simple and accessible—could a five-year-old explain it?

• Don’t overcomplicate—simplicity creates momentum!

• Make your communication inclusive and avoid jargon.

• The Galloping Frog:
  Hear the story behind Cerys’ children’s book, inspired by her late grandfather and brought to life in partnership with her uncle. It’s proof that sometimes, leaping into the unknown brings beautiful surprises. Get the book on Amazon >>> HERE <<<

Free Communications Resource:
Cerys’ free resource “Resonate with People” is available on her CT Communications website. If you’re looking to sharpen your leadership voice, or just want some practical communication advice, this is a must-download!

Connect with Cerys:
Follow her on LinkedIn, Instagram, or Facebook for tips, business updates, and more

https://www.instagram.com/ctcommunications.ca

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565011320505

https://il.linkedin.com/company/ct-communications.ca

https://www.linkedin.com/in/cerys-thompson-a2803340/

https://www.ctcommunications.ca/

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Connect with Angela:

• Instagram: @beboldbranding
• Website: beboldbranding.com
• LinkedIn: Angela Merzib

Download Angela's Free Guide: "Turn Clicks Into Clients" https://sendfox.com/lp/m7nk2v

Samantha Burmeister, is a powerhouse copywriter who left a well-paying tech sales career during a bold beachside revelation in Vietnam to launch her own business, Nomad Copy Agency, while traveling the world.

In this episode, we dive into the world of conversion copywriting, uncovering insights on how compelling messaging can transform brands and boost business results.

💡 Top 3 Takeaways:
1️⃣ How to uncover and use authentic client voice for messaging that truly connects
2️⃣ Why your business copy must focus on outcomes, not just features—and the biggest copywriting mistakes entrepreneurs make
3️⃣ Actionable tips for building a brand (and business) that stands out, whether you’re DIY-ing or ready to invest in expert help

Connect with Samantha:

https://www.instagram.com/nomad.copy

https://www.linkedin.com/in/samanthaburmeister

The Opt In Copy Bot:

https://www.nomadcopyagency.com/opt-in-copy-bot

______________________

Connect with Angela:

• Instagram: @beboldbranding
• Website: beboldbranding.com
• LinkedIn: Angela Merzib

Download Angela's Free Guide: "Turn Clicks Into Clients" https://sendfox.com/lp/m7nk2v

This episode of Bold Moves features Michael Kuechenmeister, an experienced designer from Greenville, South Carolina, and founder of Super Green—an agency focused on UX, or as Mike calls it, human-centered design, for enterprise and B2B SaaS products.

In this insightful conversation, Mike traces his journey from a background in branding and marketing to becoming a leader in user experience design. They dive deep into the evolution of UX, its impact on both business outcomes and customer relationships, and the crucial role of human-centered design.

Whether you’re a small business owner or part of a large organization, you’ll walk away with practical strategies for aligning UX with your business goals, measuring ROI, and making meaningful improvements for both customers and employees.

Grab your notebook—this episode is packed with actionable advice, real-world stories, and a few laughs along the way!

___________________

Connect with Mike

Website

www.supergreen.us

LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikekuechenmeister/

Better By Design Book:

https://www.amazon.com/Better-Design-Experience-Accelerates-Innovation-ebook/dp/B0F5CR9ZQN/ref=sr_1_1?crid=20X8SZVRF407K&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.EigifU5qp4j47at9HiwR0w.Dx0ZMb_WuL-8pbstTHxlo3P_JECzJY6FD7QHAgquNB4&dib_tag=se&keywords=better+by+design+mike+kuechenmeister&qid=1751053501&sprefix=better+by+design+mike+kuechenmeister%2Caps%2C117&sr=8-1

_________________-

Connect with Angela:

• Instagram: @beboldbranding
• Website: beboldbranding.com
• LinkedIn: Angela Merzib

Download Angela's Free Guide: "Turn Clicks Into Clients" https://sendfox.com/lp/m7nk2v

In this Bold Moves episode, Larissa shares her incredible journey from working as a unit publicist in Canadian television to taking a bold leap and moving to Costa Rica, where she founded one of the region’s pioneering destination wedding planning firms. Not only did she grow her business to seven figures, she strategically used Public Relations to achieve this milestone and was recognized as one of the top 30 destination wedding planners in the world!

In this conversation, Larissa and Angela dive deep into the world of public relations for entrepreneurs: busting PR myths, tackling common misconceptions, and explaining why PR isn’t just for celebrities or the ultra-successful. Larissa shares actionable strategies for pitching yourself as an expert, how to stand out to the media, and why building authority is more essential than ever in the age of AI and content overload.

Whether you’re a solopreneur, a small business owner, or just curious about how publicity can transform your business, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiring stories. Get ready to learn how to put yourself out there, leverage the media, and make your own bold move!

Connect with Melissa:

Webstie: www.larissabanting.com

Social Media:

https://www.facebook.com/larissabanting 

https://www.instagram.com/larissa_banting

https://www.linkedin.com/in/larissabanting

Connect with Angela:

• Instagram: @beboldbranding
• Website: beboldbranding.com
• LinkedIn: Angela Merzib

Download Angela's Free Guide: "Turn Clicks Into Clients" https://sendfox.com/lp/m7nk2v

Want your consulting or expertise to stand out, attract real clients—not just “likes”?
Check out these powerful insights from my recent conversation with Pranav Kale on the Bold Moves podcast.

Pranav specializes in helping solo consultants and experts clarify the big idea behind their work so they can turn content into real client conversations. Here are my top three takeaways from our chat:

🔑 Key Takeaways:

• Your Perspective Is Your Superpower:
  Expertise is expected, but your unique perspective is what truly sets you apart. Clients are drawn in by your worldview, not just your resume.
• Start With “Who”—Not Just “What” or “How”:
  Crafting a clear message isn’t about fancy hooks or tactics. Begin by defining who you are and what underlying beliefs shape your work—identify your industry’s “villain” to create messaging that really resonates.
• Refine by Doing, Not Just Planning:
  Don’t get stuck overthinking your positioning. Start selling, keep notes from real client conversations, create content, and let your big idea take shape through action and feedback.

Pranav’s approach has helped consultants go from vague expertise to having a core message that makes them memorable and magnetic—and you don’t need it to be perfect from day one. Treat your positioning like software: version 1.0 is a start, and you refine as you go!

Connect with Pranav:

Website

https://www.pranavkale.com/

Linkedin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/pranavkale120/

Connect with Angela:

• Instagram: ⁠@beboldbranding⁠
• Website: ⁠beboldbranding.com⁠
• LinkedIn: ⁠Angela Merzib⁠

Download Angela's Free Guide: "Turn Clicks Into Clients" ⁠https://sendfox.com/lp/m7nk2v

Mike Mammel, is the founder of Mini Titans and a passionate advocate for inspiring youth to embrace a growth mindset through entrepreneurship—even after his tourism business was derailed by the pandemic.

In this episode, we dive into the power of teaching kids entrepreneurial skills, uncovering insights on how building resilience and learning from failure can start early and set kids up for lifelong success.

💡 Top 3 Takeaways:
1️⃣ The practical steps to instill honesty, discipline, and financial literacy in children—even through fun, hands-on business experiences.
2️⃣ Why embracing and learning from failure is the key to building true resilience, both in business and in life.
3️⃣ How mini-entrepreneurs are discovering the freedom to create, adapt, and thrive by selling real products—and what parents/educators can do to support them.

Connect with Mike:

Website

www.minititans.ca

Linkedin

https://www.linkedin.com/company/mini-titans/?viewAsMember=true

Facebook

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61552709752786

Connect with Angela:

• Instagram: @beboldbranding
• Website: beboldbranding.com
• LinkedIn: Angela Merzib

Download Angela's Free Guide: "Turn Clicks Into Clients" https://sendfox.com/lp/m7nk2v

Ever wondered how to turn bold ideas into real, thriving businesses? In this session, we chatted with Lyndsie Barrie, the powerhouse behind YYC Fempreneurs, about her journey from hairdressing to the financial industry to launching a vibrant community for women entrepreneurs. We dove into why building authentic relationships, embracing imperfect action, and leading with service are essential for lasting success. Plus, Lyndsie shared her top marketing hacks, why giving valuable content for free pays off, and how community is the key to sustainable growth. If you’re ready to get out of your own way and level up, this episode is for you!

Connect with Lyndsie:

Website:

yycfempreneurs.com

Instagram:

instagram.com/yycfempreneurs

Free Gift:

yycfempreneurs.com/freebies

Lyndsie's Book:

https://www.amazon.ca/Find-Your-Voice-Social-Media/dp/0995338523

Connect with Angela:

• Instagram: @beboldbranding
• Website: beboldbranding.com
• LinkedIn: Angela Merzib

Download Angela's Free Guide: "Turn Clicks Into Clients" https://sendfox.com/lp/m7nk2v