If you feel like business growth is supposed to come from the perfect strategy, this conversation is a reality check.

Dave Knox has spent years building and advising high-growth startups and entrepreneurial ecosystems, including leading Blue North in Northern Kentucky and helping create places designed for “collisions” where the right people meet at the right time. In this episode, we talk about how entrepreneurs can build real momentum by getting into better rooms, finding the right mentors, and learning how to ask for help without feeling weak.

We also dig into founder market fit, why “feature vs product” thinking matters more than ever in the AI era, and the underrated skill that separates corporate operators from founders: the ability to communicate clearly when you are not in the room.

If you are building a company in Cincinnati or Northern Kentucky, or you are trying to grow anywhere outside the usual coastal tech bubbles, this is one of those episodes that can change how you approach relationships, community, and opportunity.

Topics we cover:

• What an entrepreneurial support organization actually does and how Blue North helps founders

• Why collisions matter and how communities create them on purpose

• The mentorship problem: finding the right expertise at the right time

• How to build relationships that pay off later without being transactional

• Why entrepreneurs need both truth-telling and encouragement

• AI opportunities for younger builders and what to avoid in the hype cycle

• Feature vs product and how to think about defensibility

• Founder market fit and the questions to ask before you commit years of your life

Links and Resources:

• Connect with Dave Knox: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daveknox/

====================

Subscribe & Listen to more content here:

Web: https://www.cincinnatibusinesspodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoPy3sUK9jBdQZR_0B_9j8w
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cincinnati-business-podcast/id1785929912
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Connect with Brian:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/u/bwerickson
Instagram: http://instagram.com/cincybizpod/
TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@cincybizpod
Facebook: http://facebook.com/people/Cincinnati-Business-Podcast/
Spotify: http://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Produced by the Cincinnati Podcast Studio

Creating high-quality a DIY video podcast is complicated. Cincinnati Podcast Studio simplifies video podcast production so you can just show up and share your message, creating true fans while establishing your authority and building trust.

Are you in the Greater Cincinnati area and interested in starting your own podcast?
Book a Tour Today http://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com/
Learn more about the Cincinnati Podcast Studio: https://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com/

====================

dave knox, blue north, spark haus, cincinnati business podcast, cincinnati entrepreneurship, northern kentucky startups, startup mentorship, entrepreneurial ecosystem, networking for entrepreneurs, how to build a network, founder market fit, product vs feature, startup advice, venture capital midwest, economic development, entrepreneur led economic development, startup community building, business podcast, business leadership, building relationships in business, ai and entrepreneurship, startup strategy, cincinnati startup scene, nk y entrepreneurship

Are you looking for a marketing unicorn who can do it all? In this episode, Betsy Wolking, President of AMA Cincinnati and Director of Marketing at Foster and Motley, joins Brian Erickson to debunk the biggest myths in business marketing.

Betsy shares why a Director of Marketing is actually a high-level project manager rather than a one-person production house.

We dive deep into the realities of marketing within highly regulated industries like financial services, navigating strict compliance boundaries, and how to build authentic human connections through video and social media. Whether you are a solo entrepreneur or a growing firm, learn the essential marketing fundamentals you need to reach your target audience and the truth about using AI as a tool to enhance your brand without losing the human touch.

Links and Resources:

Connect with Betsy Wolking:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsy-wolking-8a661642/

Foster & Motley Profile: https://www.fosterandmotley.com/our-team/bios/betsy-l-wolking

====================

Subscribe & Listen to more content here:

Web: https://www.cincinnatibusinesspodcast.com

YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGtiiP79wCZ2ALPztpr-7XWMl7uQUFRvB

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/unconventional-leadership-podcast/id1378659047

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4O6tNE9H2cuWba5Ovnum8C

====================

Connect with Brian:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/u/bwerickson

Instagram: instagram.com/cincybizpod/

TikTok: tiktok.com/@cincybizpod Facebook: facebook.com/people/Cincinnati-Business-Podcast/

Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Produced by the Cincinnati Podcast Studio Creating high-quality a DIY video podcast is complicated. Cincinnati Podcast Studio simplifies video podcast production so you can just show up and share your message, creating true fans while establishing your authority and building trust.

Are you in the Greater Cincinnati area and interested in starting your own podcast? Book a Tour Today http://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com/

Learn more about the Cincinnati Podcast Studio: https://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com

Marketing Strategy, Hiring a Marketer, AMA Cincinnati, Betsy Wolking, Business Growth Tips, Financial Services Marketing, Compliance in Marketing, Project Management, Digital Marketing Fundamentals, Cincinnati Business Podcast, AI in Marketing, Customer Journey, B2C Marketing, Wealth Management Marketing, Small Business Marketing

Dana Dunmyer shares the unlikely path from pastoral ministry to building enterprise technology at GE in the early days of the internet, and why he believes faith and leadership are meant to be integrated, not compartmentalized.You will hear practical leadership lessons for business owners and executives, including:- How to make high-stakes decisions when you do not have the full roadmap, just the next right step- What it looks like to cast vision with clarity and conviction, even as an underdog- Why focusing on core competencies and partnering for the rest unlocks scale and momentum- How Dana thinks about stewardship, thriving, and using business to create real community impact- The mission behind Tiki Solutions and building systems that help organizations operate with less friction and more alignmentLinks and Resources:- Connect with Dana Dunn Meyer: https://tqi.solutions====================Subscribe & Listen to more content here:Web: https://www.cincinnatibusinesspodcast.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoPy3sUK9jBdQZR_0B_9j8wApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cincinnati-business-podcast/id1785929912Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ====================Connect with Brian:LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/u/bwericksonInstagram: http://instagram.com/cincybizpod/TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@cincybizpodFacebook: http://facebook.com/people/Cincinnati-Business-Podcast/Spotify: http://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ====================Produced by the Cincinnati Podcast StudioCreating high-quality a DIY video podcast is complicated. Cincinnati Podcast Studio simplifies video podcast production so you can just show up and share your message, creating true fans while establishing your authority and building trust.Are you in the Greater Cincinnati area and interested in starting your own podcast?Book a Tour Today http://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com/Learn more about the Cincinnati Podcast Studio: https://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com/Tags:cincinnati business podcast, business leadership, leadership principles, faith and work, faith in the workplace, christian entrepreneur, christian business leadership, values driven leadership, executive leadership, entrepreneurship, small business growth, marketplace ministry, stewardship in business, decision making, leadership mindset, business strategy, vision casting, core competencies, partnering strategy, jack welch, general electric, early internet, tech entrepreneurship, crm alternative, business systems, organizational leadership

Can artificial intelligence ever truly replace the human touch in marketing and creative work? In this episode, Tobias Brauer — Executive Creative Director turned brand strategist — joins Brian Erickson to unpack what “good creative” actually means. Together, they explore how AI tools are reshaping marketing, where they fall short, and why emotional resonance and storytelling still matter more than volume.

Tobias shares insights from his career journey — from teaching design at NKU to leading at Hyperquake and now running his own consultancy, SOLVSTAT. The conversation covers how to balance strategy and risk, why creative processes matter, and the secret behind marketing that people actually feel.

If you’ve ever wondered whether AI can really replace your creative instincts — or how to stand out in a world of sameness — this one’s for you.

Links and Resources:

• Connect with Tobias Brauer: https://solvstat.com

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tobiasbrauer

====================

Subscribe & Listen to more content here:

Web: https://www.cincinnatibusinesspodcast.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCoPy3sUK9jBdQZR_0B_9j8w
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cincinnati-business-podcast/id1785929912
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Connect with Brian:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/u/bwerickson
Instagram: instagram.com/cincybizpod/
TikTok: tiktok.com/@cincybizpod
Facebook: facebook.com/people/Cincinnati-Business-Podcast/

====================

Produced by the Cincinnati Podcast Studio

Creating a high-quality DIY video podcast is complicated. Cincinnati Podcast Studio simplifies video podcast production so you can just show up and share your message — creating true fans while establishing your authority and building trust.

Are you in the Greater Cincinnati area and interested in starting your own podcast?
Book a Tour Today: http://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com/
Learn more: https://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com

Tags:
AI marketing, creativity vs AI, Tobias Brauer, Brian Erickson, Cincinnati Podcast Studio, Cincinnati Business Podcast, brand storytelling, marketing strategy, creative process, video podcast, Hyperquake, Northern Kentucky University, creative leadership, emotional branding, content strategy, human creativity, brand building, Cincinnati business, entrepreneurship, AI content, marketing podcast

Veteran sales strategist Sean O’Shaughnessy joins the Cincinnati Business Podcast to unpack 40 years of wisdom on what really drives B2B sales success — trust, process, and people. Sean shares how he helps small and mid-market companies go from chaos to scalable systems, why most businesses fail at defining their Ideal Client Profile, and how AI is transforming sales — not by replacing people, but by augmenting the best ones.

From establishing repeatable sales processes to mastering abundance thinking, this episode dives deep into how small businesses can build confident, consistent sales growth in 2025 and beyond.

Timestamps:

• (00:00) What sales really is: transferring trust

• (04:00) Why most companies live in sales chaos

• (10:00) How to build a repeatable sales process

• (16:00) Defining your Ideal Client Profile (ICP)

• (24:00) The abundance mindset in sales

• (40:00) Will AI replace salespeople?

• (47:00) Best AI tools for sales professionals

Links and Resources:

• Connect with Sean O’Shaughnessy: https://newsales.expert

• Listen to Two Tall Guys Talking Sales: https://newsales.expert/category/two-tall-guys-talking-sales/

• Listen to AI Tools for Sales Pros: https://open.spotify.com/show/1f1f5PSzLuDeO1Z1374SP3?go=1&sp_cid=f8f6d9e3ad3874cf9c3542984a936b87&utm_source=embed_player_p&utm_medium=desktop&nd=1&dlsi=2bcd6a593a4b4c21

====================

Subscribe & Listen to more content here:

Web: https://www.cincinnatibusinesspodcast.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGtiiP79wCZ2ALPztpr-7XWMl7uQUFRvB
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cincinnati-business-podcast/id1785929912
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt

====================

Connect with Brian:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/u/bwerickson
Instagram: instagram.com/cincybizpod
TikTok: tiktok.com/@cincybizpod
Facebook: facebook.com/people/Cincinnati-Business-Podcast/
Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt

====================

Produced by the Cincinnati Podcast Studio

Creating a high-quality video podcast is complicated. Cincinnati Podcast Studio simplifies video podcast production so you can just show up, share your message, and create true fans while building trust and authority.

Are you in the Greater Cincinnati area and interested in starting your own podcast?
Book a Tour Today: http://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com/tour
Learn more about the Cincinnati Podcast Studio: https://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com

Tags:sales strategy, B2B sales, sales leadership, fractional CRO, Sean O’Shaughnessy, Brian Erickson, Cincinnati Business Podcast, AI in sales, sales automation, ideal client profile, small business growth, abundance mindset, building trust in sales, sales process, Cincinnati business leaders, video podcasting for business

Most jobs are never listed, and nearly 80% of new opportunities come from referrals. But what if networking as we know it is broken? In this episode, Amy P. Vaughan — creative entrepreneur, author, and CEO of Together Digital — reveals why introverts often make the best networkers, how to close the “networking gap,” and what really builds meaningful business relationships.

Amy shares her journey from aspiring medical professional to global brand creative director, and now to building communities that help women thrive in business. We cover the hidden power of listening, why the current networking playbook is outdated, and practical ways leaders can design inclusive environments that foster real connection.

If you’ve ever felt drained by networking events or questioned how to build authentic business relationships, this episode will give you a new perspective.

Links and Resources:

• Connect with Amy Vaughan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amypvaughan/

====================

Subscribe & Listen to more content here:

Web: https://www.cincinnatibusinesspodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoPy3sUK9jBdQZR_0B_9j8w
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cincinnati-business-podcast/id1785929912
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Connect with Brian:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/u/bwerickson
Instagram: instagram.com/cincybizpod/
TikTok: tiktok.com/@cincybizpod
Facebook: facebook.com/people/Cincinnati-Business-Podcast/
Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Produced by the Cincinnati Podcast Studio

Creating high-quality DIY video podcasts is complicated. Cincinnati Podcast Studio simplifies video podcast production so you can just show up and share your message, creating true fans while establishing your authority and building trust.

Are you in the Greater Cincinnati area and interested in starting your own podcast?
Book a Tour Today: http://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com/
Learn more: https://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com

Data isn’t just for tech giants like Apple and Google — it’s the hidden key to small and mid-sized business success. In this episode of the Cincinnati Business Podcast, Brian Erickson sits down with Kyle Carter, founder of Zenylitics, to explore how data can uncover blind spots, simplify decision-making, and even save businesses from costly mistakes.

Kyle shares real stories — from urgent care centers losing thousands in missed opportunities, to consumer brands discovering their “great idea” was actually a customer nightmare. They also dig into how AI is transforming business processes, what most companies miss when tracking KPIs, and why simplicity often wins over complexity.

If you’re a business leader looking to work smarter not just harder, this conversation will help you see how the right data can drive revenue, improve customer experience, and future-proof your business.

Links and Resources:

• Connect with Kyle Carter: https://zenylitics.com

• Connect with Kyle on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-carter-1b16643b/

====================

Subscribe & Listen to more content here:

Web: https://www.cincinnatibusinesspodcast.com
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoPy3sUK9jBdQZR_0B_9j8w
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cincinnati-business-podcast/id1785929912
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Connect with Brian:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/u/bwerickson
Instagram: http://instagram.com/cincybizpod/
TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@cincybizpod
Facebook: http://facebook.com/people/Cincinnati-Business-Podcast/
Spotify: http://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Produced by the Cincinnati Podcast Studio

Creating high-quality a DIY video podcast is complicated. Cincinnati Podcast Studio simplifies video podcast production so you can just show up and share your message, creating true fans while establishing your authority and building trust.

Are you in the Greater Cincinnati area and interested in starting your own podcast?
Book a Tour Today http://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com/
Learn more about the Cincinnati Podcast Studio: https://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com/

data driven decisions, small business growth, business podcast, Cincinnati business podcast, Kyle Carter Zenylitics, Brian Erickson, customer experience strategy, data analytics for business, AI in small business, KPIs explained, simplify business decisions, entrepreneurship podcast, how to grow a business, using data for business growth, business leadership podcast, customer insights, AI and business strategy, Cincinnati Podcast Studio

Is it better to roast or toast your competition online? In this episode, we dive into fascinating research from NKU professors Dr. Jose Torres and Dr. Ahn Dang, who studied how brands like Wendy’s and Coca-Cola use humor on social media to boost engagement.

We explore:

• Why roasting works for big brands but can backfire for small ones

• How “neutralization messages” can prevent backlash

• What local businesses should be doing to build an authentic presence

• Real examples of what worked — and what went wrong

If you're a business owner trying to grow your social presence without tanking your brand, this episode gives you the research-backed playbook.

Links and Resources:

• Connect with Dr. Jose Torres: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseluissaavedra/

• Connect with Dr. Ahn Dang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anh-dang-nku/

====================

Subscribe & Listen to more content here:
Web: https://www.cincinnatibusinesspodcast.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGtiiP79wCZ2ALPztpr-7XWMl7uQUFRvB
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cincinnati-business-podcast/id1785929912
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Connect with Brian:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/u/bwerickson
Instagram: http://instagram.com/cincybizpod/
TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@cincybizpod
Facebook: http://facebook.com/people/Cincinnati-Business-Podcast/
Spotify: http://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Produced by the Cincinnati Podcast Studio
Creating a high-quality DIY video podcast is complicated. Cincinnati Podcast Studio simplifies video podcast production so you can just show up and share your message — creating true fans while establishing your authority and building trust.

Are you in the Greater Cincinnati area and interested in starting your own podcast?
Book a Tour Today: http://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com/

brand marketing, social media strategy, digital marketing, brand engagement, Wendy’s Twitter, Coca-Cola branding, marketing humor, small business tips, NKU business, Cincinnati business podcast, business podcast, Cincinnati Podcast Studio, video podcasting, how to grow a brand, LinkedIn strategy, toasting vs roasting, marketing mistakes, brand awareness, consumer behavior, brand identity, business growth

John McCarthy is a talent expert, author of The Purpose Promise, and the founder of AG Management and PurposePromise.org. In this episode, we explore why so many professionals feel stuck at work—and what to do about it. John breaks down how self-awareness, reflection, and alignment with your purpose can help you find meaningful work and avoid the “treadmill of disengagement.”

We also explore the future of work: why top employees are leaving, what today’s talent actually wants, and how leaders can build a culture of trust, purpose, and retention. If you’ve ever felt burned out, underutilized, or unsure whether it’s time to leave your job—this episode is your wake-up call.

Links and Resources:

• Connect with John McCarthy: https://www.purposepromise.org

====================

Subscribe & Listen to more content here:
Web: https://www.cincinnatibusinesspodcast.com
YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGtiiP79wCZ2ALPztpr-7XWMl7uQUFRvB
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cincinnati-business-podcast/id1785929912
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Connect with Brian:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/u/bwerickson
Instagram: http://instagram.com/cincybizpod/
TikTok: http://tiktok.com/@cincybizpod
Facebook: http://facebook.com/people/Cincinnati-Business-Podcast/
Spotify: http://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Produced by the Cincinnati Podcast Studio
Creating a high-quality DIY video podcast is complicated. Cincinnati Podcast Studio simplifies video podcast production so you can just show up and share your message—creating true fans while establishing your authority and building trust.

Are you in the Greater Cincinnati area and interested in starting your own podcast?
Book a Tour Today: http://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com/
Learn more: https://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com

Tags:
purpose at work, employee disengagement, burnout recovery, Cincinnati Podcast, Brian Erickson, John McCarthy, AG Management, Purpose Promise, how to find meaningful work, employee retention, quiet quitting, talent strategy, future of work, Cincinnati business, leadership, entrepreneurship, workplace culture, EOS, values-driven business, business podcast

Too many business owners are their business, which makes it nearly impossible to sell. In this episode, M&A advisor JT Harp, from Transworld Business Advisors, shares what founders need to understand if they ever want to exit successfully and create long-term value. We dive into succession planning, brand independence, and how to think beyond just building a great product.

Whether you're thinking about your next move or just getting started, this conversation will change how you look at your role as a founder.

Links and Resources:

Connect with JT: https://www.linkedin.com/in/j-t-harp/

Transworld Business Advisors Cincinnati: https://www.tworld.com/locations/ohio/cincinnati

====================

Subscribe & Listen to more content here:

Web: https://www.cincinnatibusinesspodcast.com

YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLGtiiP79wCZ2ALPztpr-7XWMl7uQUFRvB

Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/cincinnati-business-podcast/id1785929912

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Connect with Brian:

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/u/bwerickson

Instagram: instagram.com/cincybizpod/

TikTok: tiktok.com/@cincybizpod

Facebook: facebook.com/people/Cincinnati-Business-Podcast/

Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/50kMVlyZokuoLwzE2fwAmt?si=pk87NyzsQJGY6iE7OKpzmQ

====================

Produced by the Cincinnati Podcast Studio

Creating a high-quality DIY video podcast is complicated. Cincinnati Podcast Studio simplifies video podcast production so you can just show up and share your message, creating true fans while establishing your authority and building trust.

Are you in the Greater Cincinnati area and interested in starting your own podcast?

Book a Tour Today → http://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com/

Learn more → https://cincinnatipodcaststudio.com