Join Dean Johnson as he sits down with Garrett Finkelstein, Marketing Director at Direct Mortgage Loans, for an insightful conversation about authentic marketing, storytelling, and relationship-building in an increasingly digital world. In this first episode of 2026, Garrett shares his 14-year journey in mortgage marketing—from video editor to marketing executive—and reveals why customers must always be the main characters in every story you tell.

Discover why consistency beats virality, how to merge your personal interests with business content, and why AI tools, while valuable, can never replace genuine human connection. Garrett's practical wisdom applies across all industries: be yourself, have fun, and remember that real relationships are the foundation of lasting success.

Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just starting out, this conversation delivers actionable insights on creating value-driven content, building deeper connections with fewer relationships, and staying authentic in a world where it's getting harder to tell what's real.

Key Takeaways:

• Why your customers are the main characters (not you)
• The evolution of social media marketing from 2012 to today
• How to create content that works for you while you sleep
• The difference between relationships and real relationships
• What matters most as AI becomes more prevalent in business

Perfect for: Marketers, business owners, sales professionals, and anyone looking to build meaningful connections that drive results.

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Erica Richardson, the 2024 Harford County Public Schools Teacher of the Year, shares her journey from being a student to becoming an award-winning teacher. She was inspired by her mother, who was an elementary school teacher, and her love for basketball led her to coaching as well. Erica emphasizes the importance of patience and allowing opportunities to come to you. She also talks about her role as the coordinator of the Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Program, where she helps students make decisions about their future careers. Erica Richardson, the 2024 Harford County Public School Teacher of the Year, shares her journey and the impact of winning the award. She discusses the nomination process, the application and interview stages, and the emotions she experienced throughout. Erica emphasizes the importance of patience, taking time to make decisions, and the support she received from her husband, family, and colleagues. She also highlights the significance of ambition, consistency, and remaining humble in achieving success. Erica's dedication to her students and her commitment to creating memorable experiences in the classroom are evident throughout the conversation.

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