In this episode of The Real Women Real Business Podcast, Shauna Lynn sits down with Jaci Russo, CEO and co-founder of Brand Russo, one of the very few women-owned agencies in the United States. With over 25 years of experience, Jaci shares how she transitioned from Hollywood to Louisiana, started an agency while pregnant, and grew it into a nationally recognized firm, all while raising four children alongside her husband.

Listeners will gain powerful insights into Jaci’s “Razor Branding” process, a practical framework that cuts through the clutter and keeps strategy at the heart of every marketing effort. She explains why most entrepreneurs get stuck between passion and execution, and how refining your focus, promise, and messaging can shift everything. Jaci also reveals how Brandstate U was born to serve entrepreneurs with smaller budgets, proving that strong branding isn’t only for big businesses.

If you’ve ever struggled to balance ambition, boundaries, and growth, this episode will inspire you to rethink your approach and build smarter, not harder. Share it with another entrepreneur who needs this encouragement today.

Timestamps:

• (00:02) - (05:40): Meet Jaci Russo and hear how her Hollywood start led to entrepreneurship
• (05:41) - (15:20): Learn how being fired sparked her journey into business ownership
• (15:21) - (24:50): Explore how Brandstate U helps entrepreneurs grow on any budget
• (24:51) - (37:30): Hear how Razor Branding helps businesses cut through the noise
• (37:31) - (49:00): Gain insights on leadership, balance, and success with Jaci Russo

Resources:

• Book Your FREE Coaching Assessment Call with Shauna Lynn: https://www.aboutshaunalynn.com/coachme
• Learn more about the show: AboutShaunaLynn.com/podcast
• The Five Languages Of Appreciation In The Workplace by Paul White: https://amzn.to/3KpI4Pa

Jaci Russo:

• Learn more about Jaci: https://www.brandstateu.com/
• Learn more about Jaci: https://brandrusso.com/
• Follow Jaci on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/brandRUSSO/
• Follow Jaci on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandrusso/
• Follow Jaci on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYAz-AmfMl-Qm61yQJPbmTQ
• Follow Jaci on Linkedin: LinkedinbrandRUSSO | LinkedIn 

About Jaci Russo:

Jaci Russo, P.C.M., is the CEO and co-founder of brandRUSSO – a strategic branding agency that represents a global portfolio of B2B clients. Jaci is a published author, entrepreneur, and sought-after speaker with over two decades of marketing experience. She’s the architect behind Brand State U, Train Yard Advisors, and co-host of the “He Said, She Said, Razor Branding Podcast”, and the “She’s So Bossy Podcast”. Jaci is a civic leader, mentor, mother of 4, and is part of the less than 1% of women-owned and founded agencies in the U.S.