In this week’s episode, we are thinking about what it truly takes to build a brand from the ground up, as we dive into the entrepreneurial journey of Vanessa Smith, the owner of Refy Agency and proud islander. With over 13 years of marketing experience, she shares how entrepreneurship was always in her DNA, having felt the entrepreneurial bug from a young age. However, she reflects on how it took her longer than expected to launch her own agency. Vanessa opens up about the most valuable lesson she learned after her first full year in business, providing insight into the ups and downs of entrepreneurship and what its like to be the host of her own podcast, Business in the Open.

When asked about building her personal brand and blending it with the content on her business Instagram, Vanessa offers great advice, sharing her strategy and experience. We then pose the ever-popular question of whether to name your business after yourself or choose a unique name, and Vanessa gives her thoughtful perspective on the topic. The conversation shifts to the raw reality of podcasting, as Vanessa explains her unique journey in bringing her podcast to life.

Vanessa also answers how she became a great community connector and marketer, revealing the key factors that helped her build such strong connections. We then reflect on our shared ability to be curious, ask the right questions, and truly get to know the people around us, which we both consider to be our “superpower.” To wrap up, Vanessa shares her thoughts on the future and what lies ahead for her business and personal journey.

Connect with Vanessa
On Instagram @refy.agency
Listen to Business In The Open on Spotify
Listen to Business In The Open on Apple

Hosted by @kirstimcnabney 🎙
Find links, inspiration and updates on @thinkingaboutpodcast

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