Lauren Evans is an Account Director at FSC Interactive and a seasoned expert in small business marketing. Together, we dive into the essentials of marketing for small businesses, covering everything from the importance of having a website and Google Business profile to the evolving landscape of social media. Lauren shares her insights on how to create value-driven content, test strategies, and build a strong marketing foundation through clear goal-setting and targeted audience engagement.

We also tackle practical budgeting tips, including how much businesses should allocate for ads and what to expect when working with an agency. Lauren provides actionable advice on leveraging tools like Google Analytics and Google Tag Manager to optimize performance. Whether you're a new business owner or looking to scale your marketing efforts, this conversation is packed with valuable insights to help you Make Marketing Make Sense.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Jim Guenther is the Chapter Director of Startup Grind in New Orleans. We dive into his unique journey from traditional academia to becoming a pivotal figure in the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Jim shares his experiences in developing a biotech program, receiving a National Science Foundation Award, and his transition into business development, emphasizing the importance of hypothesis testing and the Business Model Canvas in entrepreneurship.

We also explore the dynamic entrepreneurial scene in New Orleans, discussing the city's growing biotech and life sciences hub, the rise of green and blue industries, and the vital role of medical schools in innovation. Jim highlights the collaborative nature of the local startup community and offers insights on how entrepreneurs can engage with global networks through Startup Grind. Join us for an inspiring conversation about the challenges and opportunities in entrepreneurship, and learn how to get involved in this vibrant community.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Matt Preuett is a marketing consultant and the founder of 90 by 3. In this episode, we dive deep into the crucial topic of marketing misalignment. Matt shares insights from his extensive experience, highlighting the importance of creating clear marketing plans and strategies that align with overall business objectives. We explore common pitfalls businesses face, the significance of communication between marketing teams and executives, and how to set up marketers for success.

Join us as we discuss how to recognize early signs of misalignment, the impact of technological advancements like AI, and practical steps to ensure your marketing efforts are both effective and efficient. If you’re looking to bridge the gap between your marketing strategies and business goals, this conversation is packed with valuable advice and actionable tips from a seasoned expert.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Brandon Armant is a marketing expert and the owner of BAMM Communications. In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of building a personal brand, focusing on authenticity and storytelling. Brandon shares insights on how entrepreneurs can articulate their personal stories, highlight their values, and effectively communicate their mission. We discuss practical steps to identify your unique traits, overcome challenges, and connect with your audience.

Join us as we explore the essential ingredients for a successful personal brand and the importance of consistent, genuine messaging. Brandon also provides tips for those who are camera shy and alternative ways to share your brand story. Whether you're just starting or looking to refine your personal brand, this episode is packed with valuable advice to help you make marketing make sense.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Brandon Armant is a dynamic CEO at BAMM Communications, known for his exceptional expertise in branding and marketing. In this episode of Make Marketing Make Sense, hosted by Josh Owen, we dive deep into the importance of building a personal brand. Brandon shares valuable insights on how personal branding can significantly influence business success, especially in today’s crowded market. We discuss why it’s crucial to stand out, build trust with your audience, and humanize the person behind the business.

We also explore the long-term benefits of personal branding, including opening doors to speaking opportunities, media engagements, and strategic partnerships. Brandon highlights real-life examples of successful personal brands and emphasizes the value of being authentic and strategic about your personal story. Tune in to learn how to leverage your personal brand to enhance your business and make meaningful connections with your audience. Don’t miss this enlightening conversation that will help you Make Marketing Make Sense.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Sara Scioneaux is the founder of Florence Creative, a marketing agency known for its innovative approach to branding for startups. In this episode, Sara dives deep into the essentials of building a brand from scratch, emphasizing the importance of understanding your target audience and maintaining consistency. She shares insights on how startups can define their mission, vision, and values to create a solid foundation for their brand.

We also explore practical steps for branding, the significance of market research, and how to pivot while staying true to your core principles. Sara’s expertise shines through as she discusses the nuances of creating a brand identity that resonates with the audience and stands out in a crowded market. Tune in for invaluable advice on navigating the complexities of startup branding and making informed decisions that will shape the future of your business.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Host Josh Owen dives into the nuances of effective design with Mary Louise, the founder of Quirkus. They discuss the importance of differentiating your brand through unique, well-thought-out design strategies and the pitfalls of relying on common templates. Mary Louise emphasizes the value of involving designers early in the branding process to ensure your visual and messaging elements align seamlessly from the start. They explore the concept of design thinking versus design execution, stressing that great design is not just about aesthetics but also about strategic, research-based decisions.

Mary Louise shares her insights on how to identify when your design needs a revamp and the signs that your branding might be outdated. They also touch on the accessibility of good design for small to medium-sized businesses, encouraging the use of local resources and community support. This discussion is packed with valuable advice for business owners looking to make their design work harder for them and ensure their brand stands out in a crowded market. Subscribe to stay updated on more marketing insights and tips.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Matt Pruett, a marketing consultant and the founder of Ninety-by-three, recently shared insights on a podcast about the critical issue of marketing misalignment. He likened the concept to a spine that needs proper alignment, explaining that just like a misaligned spine can restrict physical movement, misaligned marketing can limit a business's growth and success. He stressed that realigning marketing strategies from the bottom up is essential to support key business objectives such as revenue growth and market expansion.

Matt's discussion highlighted the common challenges businesses face with miscommunication between different organizational levels. By using the analogy of a chiropractor's adjustments, he conveyed the need for a systematic approach to marketing, starting with a thorough understanding and adjustment of the marketing 'spine'. This approach, he argues, fosters a healthier business environment and transforms marketing into a robust tool for driving business growth.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

Emily Diament, founder of Diament Public Relations, delves into the dynamic changes within the public relations industry, particularly in the wake of COVID-19. She highlights the significant impact of the pandemic on various sectors, including the drastic effects on media outlets, which have led to reduced coverage and necessitated a keener management of client expectations by PR professionals. Emily discusses the wide range of challenges faced by businesses, from closed restaurants to canceled festivals, emphasizing the critical need for strategic adaptability in today's PR practices. Her insights paint a vivid picture of a rapidly evolving industry, where flexibility and innovation are paramount.

As we dive into the summertime in New Orleans, Emily sheds light on adapting PR strategies to suit the slower business period by heavily utilizing social media and influencer partnerships. These strategies aim to maximize brand exposure with limited resources, turning to local content creators who can provide mutual benefits through collaborative promotions. She shares creative ways to engage both locals and tourists, such as offering themed cocktail flights and special events to boost local patronage during off-peak times. The conversation concludes with an overview of the innovative approaches necessary to thrive in the altered PR landscape. Emily's insights into leveraging smaller, more targeted media engagements and the increasing reliance on digital platforms highlight a significant shift in public relations. Her experiences as a founder underscore the importance of creative solutions and strategic partnerships in overcoming the challenges of today's PR environment.

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/

In this episode of "Make Marketing Make Sense," host Josh Owen dives into an enlightening conversation with Lauren Siegel, Managing Director at Trepwise, about innovative approaches to business leadership designed to combat burnout and enhance organizational efficiency. Together, they explore the transition from traditional hierarchical structures to cutting-edge shared leadership models where power is distributed, and collaboration is prioritized. Lauren Siegel offers an in-depth look at the tangible benefits of shared leadership, emphasizing its potential to boost employee engagement, reduce burnout, and foster a more inclusive and equitable workplace. She explains how this modern approach ensures that diverse voices are heard and valued, creating a sense of ownership and pride among team members. By integrating perspectives from across the organization, businesses can make more informed decisions and cultivate a positive work culture that benefits everyone involved.

Throughout the conversation, Lauren shares practical steps for implementing shared leadership in businesses of all sizes. She provides real-world examples and actionable strategies for leaders looking to adopt this progressive approach. Learn how Trepwise is pioneering this leadership transformation and discover how your organization can benefit from these innovative practices. This insightful episode aims to redefine leadership for a healthier and more productive work environment. Don’t miss it!

Our show's host, Josh Owen, is the co-founder of Comfy Stone, a New Orleans-based video marketing company. With a solid foundation of over 5 years in guiding brands toward leveraging video content for business growth, Josh brings a wealth of expertise to the table. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons in video marketing, and he continues to adapt and learn as the world evolves.

Follow Comfy Stone

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfystonefilms/

Website: https://www.comfystone.com/