Success rarely follows a straight path. What does it take to transition from sweeping floors and driving forklifts to leading global technology strategies at one of the world's largest tech companies?

In this episode, guest Ed SooHoo joins the show to share his incredible professional journey, framing his career through what he calls the "Three Collars". Ed opens up about his extensive background as a blue-collar, card-carrying Teamster—working as a rail switchman, forklift driver, and machinist—and how those practical, "back of house" experiences laid the ultimate foundation for his future.

We dive into his shift into white-collar corporate spaces at tech giants like Oracle and HP, his ventures into the "no-collar" entrepreneurial world running billiard clubs and microbreweries, and his current role as the Chief Technology Officer for Global Accounts at Lenovo. Ed reveals why his massive success isn't actually rooted in being a tech genius, but rather in being an "accidentalist" driven by relentless curiosity and mastering the art of asking questions instead of just pretending to have all the answers.

Marketing with Russ...aka #RussSelfie, Episode 615Featuring Ed Soo Hoo🔗 Connect with Ed:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/edsoohooWebsite: esoohoo.com🔗 Connect with Me: https://www.russhedge.com #MarketingwithRuss #EdSooHoo #Lenovo #BlueCollarToSuccess #CareerJourney #TechLeadership #InspiringStories #Curiosity #CareerGrowth #Leadership

Why do we expect our paths to success to be smooth, linear journeys? The truth is that growth rarely happens in isolation—and it is almost never a straight line.

In this episode, guest Lisa Marree joins the show to unpack the profound connection between personal growth, community, and the power of breaking free from old habits. Lisa opens up about her own journey as a recovering loner who had to learn to look past the negative behavior patterns imprinted on her during childhood.

Together, we dive into how the modern "perfection trap" on social media fuels self-doubt and unhelpful mental autopilot loops. Lisa shares the vital mindset shift required to survive and thrive through tough times: accepting early on that there will be difficult moments, learning how to "fail forward," and leaning on a trusted community and mentors to help you climb through the mud.

Watch Marketing with Russ...aka #RussSelfie, Episode 614Featuring Lisa MarreeConnect with Lisa:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisa-marreeWebsite: https://lisamarree.com/Email: [email protected] Connect with Me:Website: https://www.russhedge.com #MarketingwithRuss #SuccessJourney #GrowthMindset #EntrepreneurMindset #OvercomingFailure #Persistence #PersonalGrowth #SuccessMindset #Motivation #Resilience #Leadership #KeepGoing

Many leaders experience a quiet frustration: feeling unheard despite carrying responsibility, vision, and experience. Leadership can sometimes feel lonely when your voice, ideas, or guidance don’t seem to land with your team.In this short video, we explore why leaders often feel unheard and how communication, perspective, and intentional leadership can change the dynamic. True leadership isn’t just about speaking—it’s about creating connection, trust, and influence.If you’ve ever felt ignored, misunderstood, or like your leadership voice isn’t reaching people, this message will encourage and challenge you to lead with clarity and purpose.Leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room—it’s about being the most impactful.Marketing with Russ...aka #RussSelfie, Episode 613FFeaturing Victoria Huff🔗 Connect with Victoria:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/victoria-huff-the-happy-executive-09348014Website: TheHappyExecutive.com 🔗 Connect with Me: https://www.russhedge.com #MarketingwithRuss #Leadership #LeadershipCommunication #ExecutiveLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #Influence #BusinessLeadership #EntrepreneurLeadership #LeadershipMindset #TeamLeadership #PersonalGrowth

For startups and small businesses, growth doesn’t always require a big advertising budget. The strongest brands often begin by growing organically through digital marketing, consistent content, and authentic connection with their audience.

In this audio discussion, we explore how startups can build visibility, trust, and long-term growth by focusing on organic marketing strategies, social media consistency, and authentic brand messaging. Learn how staying consistent and true to your brand can attract the right audience and create sustainable business momentum.

Perfect for entrepreneurs, startup founders, and small business owners looking to grow their brand online.

Marketing with Russ...aka #RussSelfie, Episode 612

Featuring Russell Mangsen

🔗 Connect with Russ Mangasen:

LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/marketingwithruss

Website: https://marketingwithruss.com 

🔗 Connect with Me:

Website: https://www.russhedge.com

#StartupGrowth #DigitalMarketing #OrganicMarketing #StartupTips #Entrepreneurship #ContentMarketing #BrandAuthenticity #SocialMediaStrategy #BusinessGrowth #StartupFounder #audio #podcast #MarketingwithRuss

Struggling with visibility online or in your business? You're not alone. In this short video, we share one powerful visibility tip that can help you stand out, get noticed, and connect with the right audience.Whether you're building a brand, growing a business, or trying to increase your online presence, this simple strategy can make a big difference.Watch now and start improving your visibility, influence, and impact today.Marketing with Russ...aka #RussSelfie, Episode 611Featuring Avyn CummingsWatch full episode here:    • Marketing with Russ...aka #RussSelfie, Epi...  🔗 Connect with Avyn:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/avyn-cummingsWebsite: aekotech.com🔗 Connect with Me: https://www.russhedge.com #MarketingwithRuss #visibility #personalbranding #businessgrowth #getnoticed #contentstrategy #socialmediatips #marketingtips #entrepreneurlife #growthmindset #businesstips

Ready to turn your podcast into a powerhouse? Whether you’re launching your first episode or looking to scale a seasoned show, mastering the art of podcasting is the key to building a loyal community.

In episode 608 of Marketing with Russ, we sit down with top-tier podcast coach Erik K. Johnson to break down the strategies that separate amateur hobbyists from professional creators. Learn how to refine your voice, engage your listeners, and optimize your content for growth.

Stop guessing and start growing. Tune in to learn the expert secrets to podcasting success!

Featured Guest: Erik K. Johnson (The Podcast Talent Coach)Hosted by: Russ Hedge (#RussSelfie) | Episode 608

#PodcastingTips #PodcastCoach #ContentCreation #DigitalMarketing #PodcastGrowth #ErikKJohnson #MarketingWithRuss #InfluencerMarketing #PodcastStrategy #CreativeEntrepreneur #HowToPodcast

Want to know what’s trending on Instagram and TikTok right now? In this quick 2-minute video, we break down the latest social media trends, viral content strategies, and digital marketing insights creators and businesses are using to grow online.If you're a content creator, entrepreneur, or digital marketer, understanding Instagram trends and TikTok trends in 2026 can help you create engaging content, increase reach, and boost your social media growth.Discover what’s working, what’s going viral, and how you can apply these social media marketing strategies to your own content today.Whether you're looking for viral content ideas, social media growth tips, or the latest digital marketing trends, this video will help you stay ahead of the curve.Watch full episode ofMarketing with Russ...aka #RussSelfie, Episode 610Featuring Kara Alicia🔗 Connect with Kara:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/karaaliciaWebsite: https://kccreativesocial.com/🔗 Connect with Me: Website: https://www.russhedge.com #InstagramTrends #TikTokTrends #SocialMediaTrends #DigitalMarketing #ContentCreation #SocialMediaMarketing #ViralContent #MarketingTips

Have you ever felt lost in life, unsure of your purpose, or wondering what you're truly meant to do?In this conversation, we explore what it really means to feel uncertain about your direction and how those moments may actually be part of discovering your true purpose. If you've ever asked yourself “Why am I here?” or “What am I meant to do?”, you're not alone.Sometimes the seasons where we feel the most lost are the very moments that lead us toward deeper clarity, stronger faith, and a clearer understanding of the path ahead.This discussion dives into purpose, personal growth, faith, and perspective, offering encouragement for anyone navigating uncertainty, life transitions, or searching for meaning.If you're still searching for your purpose, this message may be exactly what you need to hear today.👍 Like, Subscribe, and Share if this conversation encouraged you.Marketing with Russ...aka #RussSelfie, Episode 609Featuring Krista Tressa🔗 Connect with Krista:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kristatressacaringmessengerWebsite: caringmessenger.com🔗 Connect with Me: https://www.russhedge.com

#MarketingwithRuss #FindingPurpose #FeelingLost #PurposeInLife #LifePurpose #PersonalGrowth #SelfDiscovery #FaithJourney #LifeDirection#Motivation #ChristianMotivation

Is AI a threat or a tool for liberation? In episode 607 of Marketing with Russ, we challenge the fear of automation and explore how artificial intelligence can actually make us more human.

Guest Tammy J. Cohen joins us to discuss the "Human-First" approach to the digital revolution. Discover how to leverage AI to handle the mundane tasks, freeing you to focus on what truly matters: empathy, creativity, and deep connection.

Stop trying to out-work the machines. Learn how to let AI do the work so you can get back to living.#MarketingWithRuss #AI #FutureOfWork #DigitalTransformation #HumanConnection #Automation #ArtificialIntelligence #TechTrends

Are you talking your way out of a sale? Most salespeople think they need to be the loudest person in the room, but the real secret to high-conversion selling is listening.

In episode 606 of Marketing with Russ, we dive deep into why asking thoughtful, strategic questions is the ultimate superpower for any sales professional or entrepreneur. We are joined by sales expert Jeffrey Greif to discuss how to shift your sales strategy from "pitching" to "consulting."

Whether you are an experienced sales executive, a startup founder, or looking to improve your customer engagement, this episode provides the roadmap to closing more deals by saying less.

"Selling isn’t about talking more—it’s about asking the right questions."

#MarketingwithRuss #SalesTips #SalesStrategy #ClosingDeals #Entrepreneurship #SalesTraining #CustomerEngagement #BusinessGrowth #SalesPsychology #JeffreyGreif #PodcastForSellers