Digital-First Leadership

Welcome to Digital First Leadership! I'm your host, Richard Bliss, and today we're diving into the essentials of effective online engagement for leaders of all stripes—from large corporations to solopreneurs. Joining me is a uniquely special guest, Austin Grammon, cofounder and president of SpeakerFlow, a CRM package tailored specifically for the professional speaking industry.

In this episode, Austin and I explore the challenges small businesses and solopreneurs face in tracking and engaging with sales. We discuss the limitations of traditional methods like Rolodex cards and spreadsheets and how a CRM can revolutionize your business by helping you manage relationships at scale. Austin shares valuable insights into the importance of consistency and documentation in business operations, and he presents compelling evidence showing that regular follow-ups can significantly boost revenue.

We'll also touch on how small, consistent actions—like three comments a day on LinkedIn—can build meaningful relationships that drive business success. Whether you're struggling to keep track of your contacts or looking to fine-tune your sales processes, this episode packed with practical advice and personal anecdotes has something for everyone.

So tune in now to learn how to get into the flow of your business with SpeakerFlow and take your digital-first leadership to the next level!

In this episode, Richard Bliss is joined by Zach Seipert, a marketing and communication specialist with a wealth of knowledge in word-of-mouth marketing. Together, they delve into the powerful impact of word-of-mouth marketing, emphasizing its influence on consumer decision-making, the importance of authenticity, and the strategic opportunities it presents for businesses. From dissecting influential research to sharing real-life examples, this episode is a deep dive into the art and science of word-of-mouth marketing. So, sit back, listen in, and discover the keys to leveraging this potent form of consumer engagement.

Zack Seipert is a marketing enthusiast and avid learner who believes in the power of word of mouth in business. He is an active member of Mark Schaefer's Rise community and has gained valuable insights on how to stand out in a competitive market. Zack emphasizes the importance of being unique and innovative in marketing to capture customers' attention and generate positive word of mouth. He also recognizes the potential harm of negative word of mouth and is dedicated to finding ways to mitigate its impact. Zack's passion for marketing and commitment to staying ahead of the game make him a valuable asset in the business world.

Richard shares a weekly LinkedIn tip through text message. Sign up by texting the hashtag LinkedIn to 415-534-9722. OR sign up for his weekly LinkedIn tip by texting the hashtag #LinkedIn to 415-534-9722. Stay updated on the latest changes and make the most out of your LinkedIn presence.

In The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever, Zack Seipert wrote Chapter 27: The Secret Power of Word-of-Mouth Marketing.

Host: Richard Bliss

Guest: Zack Seipert

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Podcast Manager: Kimberly Smith

In today’s episode, Richard is joined by Karine Abbou, a content marketing consultant and a former lawyer and entrepreneur. She has years of experience in conceiving, launching, and implementing B2B content projects and marketing strategies. Karine is the founder of the French Content Marketing Academy, and the author of the book, Content Marketing, The American Methodology.

Richard and Karine discuss creating a powerful content marketing strategy by understanding the three phases to get customers, identifying your main content topic, and approaching content creation with help from AI. A major change is coming with AI. Are you ready? Listen in to learn different ways to start approaching AI for now and in the very near future.

In The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever, Karine Abbou wrote Chapter 8: Creating a Powerful Content Marketing Strategy

Host: Richard Bliss

Guest: Karine Abbou

Purchase The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever

Podcast Manager: Kimberly Smith

This crossover episode brings together two powerhouse podcasts. Join our hosts Richard Bliss from “Digital-First Leadership” and Lia Bliss from “Master Your Bliss Life” as they unravel game-changing concepts that will redefine how you present yourself personally and professionally.

Ever wondered why some LinkedIn profiles grab your attention while others fade into the background? Richard and Lia discuss the importance of crafting a compelling 'About' section that resonates with your values, because here’s a mind-blowing revelation: it's not just about the jobs you've had, but the values that drive you. Learn how to create a lasting impact on how you present yourself to the professional world, and gain insights on the crucial hiring process for cultural fit and cultivating intentional growth within your team.

Richard shares a weekly LinkedIn tip through text message. Sign up by texting the hashtag LinkedIn to 415-534-9722. OR sign up for his weekly LinkedIn tip by texting the hashtag #LinkedIn to 415-534-9722. Stay updated on the latest changes and make the most out of your LinkedIn presence.


Hosts: Richard Bliss and  Lia Bliss

Richard on LinkedIn
Lia on LinkedIn and Instagram

Richard’s Books: Digital-First Leadership And The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever

Podcast Manager: Kimberly Smith

In this episode, Richard is joined by Sandee Rodriguez, a promotional marketing consultant and the owner of D and S Designs. She's also the founder and business advisor of Sandee Solves and leads the CEO Council's high-level masterminds for successful women founders. Listen in as they cover promotional marketing and uncover strategies to elevate your branding efforts. In the world of promotional products, it's not just about offering the lowest price. It’s about delivering effective products that yield results and provide value. Take advantage of this valuable conversation.

Richard shares a weekly LinkedIn tip through text message. Sign up by texting the hashtag LinkedIn to 415-534-9722. OR sign up for his weekly LinkedIn tip by texting the hashtag #LinkedIn to 415-534-9722. Stay updated on the latest changes and make the most out of your LinkedIn presence.

In The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever, Sandee Rodriguez wrote Chapter 25: How to Make Promotional Products Sing
Purchase The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever

Host: Richard Bliss

Guest: Sandee Rodriguez on LinkedIn and her websites D and S Designs and Sandee Solves

Podcast Manager: Kimberly Smith

On this episode, Richard is joined by Lisa Apolinski, co-author of The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever, along with Richard and over 30 other experts in marketing. Lisa shares her insights on the importance of customer experience in the digital world, emphasizing the need to make customer experiences personal and build trust through human connection. They discuss the risks of underestimating the power of micro-influencers and the impact of corporate culture on brand messaging. Tune in to this inspiring episode of Digital-First Leadership with Lisa Apolinski.

Richard shares a weekly LinkedIn tip through text message. Sign up by texting the hashtag LinkedIn to 415-534-9722. OR sign up for his weekly LinkedIn tip by texting the hashtag #LinkedIn to 415-534-9722. Stay updated on the latest changes and make the most out of your LinkedIn presence.

Lisa Apolinski wrote Chapter 6: Moving Customer Experience to the Digital Front in The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever

Host: Richard Bliss

Guest: Lisa Apolinski

- Lisa's website at www.threedogwrite.com for additional resources.

Purchase The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever

Podcast Manager: Kimberly Smith

In this episode, Richard sits down with guest Ian Anderson Gray, who collaborated with over 30 experts to write The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever. If you're a beginner in live streaming, this episode is a must-listen. Ian's most basic advice is to keep it simple and start without waiting for fancy equipment. Join the conversation as they tackle the importance of authenticity, overcoming nervousness, and avoiding comparison traps. Gain expert advice on technology, equipment, engaging your audience, and using live video as a content creation tool. Dive into Ian's journey as an author and uncover the secrets to authentic on-camera presence. Discover the art of connecting in the digital age and tap into Ian's live video marketing expertise. With practical tips and valuable insights, this episode is essential for digital-first leaders navigating the world of live video.

In The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever, Ian Anderson Gray wrote Chapter 12:The Extraordinary Power of Live Streaming

Host: Richard Bliss

Guest: Ian Anderson Gray and his website IAG.me

Purchase The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever

Podcast Manager: Kimberly Smith

In this episode, Richard Bliss is joined by Katelyn Richards, founder of Crafted Careers. Katelyn’s focus and expertise are in employee retention, advocacy, and talent acquisition using the LinkedIn platform. Companies that have succeeded on LinkedIn have utilized LinkedIn’s untapped potential as a platform for turning employees into brand advocates. Richard and Katelyn’s discussion includes finding and placing candidates, highlighting traditional job ad limitations, and LinkedIn's power to engage with potential hires. Uncover the true essence of LinkedIn as a social platform where authenticity prevails and information can be easily verified. Gain valuable insights on employer branding, relationship building, and expanding your audience through meaningful conversations and comments. Avoid common LinkedIn pitfalls, such as immediately pitching products or services without establishing a connection. Discover why empowering employees on LinkedIn leads to higher retention rates and attracts top talent. This episode is a must-listen for professionals seeking growth and success. 

Host: Richard Bliss

Guest: Katelyn Richards

Podcast Manager: Kimberly Smith

In this episode of Digital-First Leadership, Richard’s guest is Jeff Tarran, the COO of Gunderson Direct, one of the US's largest independent direct mail agencies. For over 25 years, he's helped businesses of all sizes, from startups to Fortune 500 companies, start and grow successful mail programs. Today's discussion with a co-author of The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever emphasizes crafting compelling offers and calls to action and optimizing landing environments for customer research. They also explore the unique advantages of direct mail, such as its engagement of eye-hand coordination and its ability to complement digital media to make products feel more real. Tune in to this episode of Digital-First Leadership to hear Jeff Tarran's expert insights on the power of personalized direct mail.

Jeff wrote chapter 21 of The Best Marketing Book Ever, called Building Your Business With Direct Mail

Host: Richard Bliss
Guest: Jeff Tarran

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Podcast Manager: Kimberly Smith

On this episode of Digital-First Leadership, host Richard Bliss welcomes award-winning Corporate Communications and Marketing Innovator, Dan Nestle. Dan emphasizes the importance of companies becoming a publisher and being able to tell their own stories, as traditional PR methods of getting media coverage are becoming less effective and costly. By focusing on publishing their own stories through owned media channels, companies can gain more validity and attract interest from others. Dan and Richard have known each other for a while and recently met in person while working together on a book called "The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever." Dan leads communications for a Japanese manufacturing and retail company in North America and hosts a biweekly podcast called "The Dan Nestle Show." Tune in to this episode of Digital-First Leadership to learn more about the power of becoming a publisher, crisis management, fostering trust, and the intersection of technology and communication.

Dan wrote chapter 26 of The Best Marketing Book Ever called Strategic Communications: Trust Can Be Your Competitive Advantage

Host: Richard Bliss

Guest: Dan Nestle

The Dan Nestle Show Podcast is available here, and anywhere you listen to podcasts.

Purchase The Most Amazing Marketing Book Ever

Podcast Manager: Kimberly Smith