Welcome to a special holiday edition of the podcast! This week, it's just me, Casey, reflecting on the importance of YOU and the incredible impact you have in the world. No guests today—just a heartfelt rant on gratitude, connection, and why marketing and what you do really matters.

In this episode:

• 🛠 Smashing the Myth: You do matter—your work, your marketing, and your efforts are all making a difference. From the highs to the lows, it’s all part of the journey.
• 🎄 Holiday Gratitude: Reflecting on the year and sharing some personal thanks to my listeners, friends, and team at Ringmaster.
• 💡 Marketing That Matters: How your marketing efforts—whether big or small—are shaping the world around you. Let’s talk about how to make an impact, even for causes that need a little extra marketing help.
• 🌟 Goal Setting for the New Year: Take stock, assess where you are, and start setting goals for 2025. This practice has been life-changing for me—here’s why it might be for you too!
• 🙌 Human Connection: Why, now more than ever, we need to prioritize real, authentic human connections in our marketing efforts.

Thank you for being a part of this journey, and as we move into 2025, let’s continue smashing myths, making a real impact, and connecting in ways that matter.

✨ Happy Holidays! Wishing you all peace, love, and gratitude this season. Don’t forget: YOU MATTER.

🔔 Subscribe, like, and share—let’s keep the conversation going!

🎧 Join the conversation: Email me at [email protected] – I want to hear from you!

Ways to Tune In:

• Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show/id1338838763
• Amazon Music/Audible: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0f4497c6-b402-4cad-9018-1e41b7e8f2bb/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1vVLpNI1LssMTiL6Kdsamn
• Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy50cmFuc2lzdG9yLmZtL3RoZS1oYXJkLWNvcnBzLW1hcmtldGluZy1zaG93

Hard Corps Marketing is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How can building a strong community help elevate your marketing strategy and keep your brand relevant in today's competitive landscape?

In this episode of The Hard Corps Marketing Show, we dive into the essential role that community plays in modern marketing. I sat down with Derek E. Weeks, Chief Marketing Officer at Katalon, to explore how building and nurturing communities can be just as crucial as focusing on product and brand.

Derek shares insights from his experience creating successful communities like All Day DevOps and Katalon’s community, highlighting the core principles of relevance, consistency, and trust. He challenges the common misconception that marketers need to constantly pitch products, advocating instead for genuine engagement and helpful interactions.

In this episode, we’ll discuss:

• The critical role of community in driving marketing success
• How community-generated content can keep your brand relevant and top-of-mind
• The importance of trust and consistency in building lasting connections

If you're looking to grow your marketing efforts through authentic connections and long-term engagement, this episode is a must-listen!

🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode of The Hard Corps Marketing Show!

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-hard-corps-marketing-show/ 

Connect with Derek:

• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/derekeweeks/ 
• Twitter: www.x.com/weekstweets 
• Company website: https://katalon.com/ 
• Book: https://unfairmindshare.com/book 

Ways to Tune In:

• Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show/id1338838763
• Amazon Music/Audible: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0f4497c6-b402-4cad-9018-1e41b7e8f2bb/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1vVLpNI1LssMTiL6Kdsamn
• Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy50cmFuc2lzdG9yLmZtL3RoZS1oYXJkLWNvcnBzLW1hcmtldGluZy1zaG93

Hard Corps Marketing is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

#CommunityMarketing #MarketingStrategy #ContentMarketing #DerekWeeks #Katalon #AllDayDevOps #BrandBuilding #MarketingTips #MarketingPodcast #HardCorpsMarketingShow

In this eye-opening interview, Mark Brandau, CMO of Brightmine, shares his expert insights into the rapidly evolving world of marketing. Mark breaks down the "vending machine myth"—the outdated notion that marketing can be a simple, transactional process—and introduces a more dynamic, "buffet-style" approach that better aligns with today’s business strategies.

Mark dives deep into modern marketing techniques and explains how businesses can move beyond traditional, siloed tactics. He challenges the overreliance on attribution modeling and promotes a more holistic, portfolio-based marketing strategy that drives sustainable growth and long-term results.

In addition to his marketing expertise, Mark shares his personal journey from growing up in Baltimore to becoming a successful marketing executive. He discusses how hard work, resilience, and the power of asking for promotions played a crucial role in his rise to the top. Mark also highlights the importance of contrast in marketing positioning, offering valuable frameworks and real-world examples to guide marketers in creating more effective campaigns.

This episode is a masterclass in modern marketing, providing actionable insights, practical tips, and inspiring advice for anyone looking to level up their marketing game. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just starting out, Mark’s wisdom will help you rethink your approach to strategy, growth, and career development.

Tune in now to learn how to move from outdated marketing practices to more strategic, impactful methods that deliver real business results!

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert marketing insights from top industry leaders!

Connect with Mark:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbrandau/ 
• Company Website: https://www.brightmine.com/us/ 

Shoutouts:

Thank you to freepik for helping with the thumbnail design! You can learn about freepik and their stock images here: www.freepik.com

Ways to Tune In:

• Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show/id1338838763
• Amazon Music/Audible: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0f4497c6-b402-4cad-9018-1e41b7e8f2bb/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1vVLpNI1LssMTiL6Kdsamn
• Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy50cmFuc2lzdG9yLmZtL3RoZS1oYXJkLWNvcnBzLW1hcmtldGluZy1zaG93

Hard Corps Marketing is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

What are the key challenges and opportunities in the evolving B2B2C and C2B marketing models, and how is AI impacting modern strategies?

In this insightful interview, marketing expert Suzanne Darmory shares her 25+ years of global experience in marketing and dives into the evolving landscape of modern business strategies. Discover how B2B2C (business-to-business-to-consumer) and C2B (consumer-to-business) models are transforming traditional marketing approaches and creating new opportunities and challenges for businesses.

As the CMO of Refundo, Suzanne explores how companies can reach consumers indirectly through business partnerships and why consumer feedback is becoming a key driver of business strategy. She also offers a deep dive into the role of AI in marketing, why human connections still matter, and the importance of continuous learning through conferences and mentorship.

With a mix of humor and professional insights, Suzanne provides a fresh perspective on how to navigate the future of marketing. Whether you're a marketer, entrepreneur, or simply curious about the industry, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways! 🎯

🔔 Subscribe for more marketing insights and expert interviews!

Connect with Suzanne:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzannedarmory/ 
• Website: http://suzannedarmory.com/
• Company Website: https://www.refundo.com/ 

Ways to Tune In:

• Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show/id1338838763
• Amazon Music/Audible: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0f4497c6-b402-4cad-9018-1e41b7e8f2bb/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1vVLpNI1LssMTiL6Kdsamn
• Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy50cmFuc2lzdG9yLmZtL3RoZS1oYXJkLWNvcnBzLW1hcmtldGluZy1zaG93

Hard Corps Marketing is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

Ever wondered about the magic behind marketing success? 🎩✨

In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Jacki Leahy, a trailblazing marketing leader and the founder of Activate the Magic. Jacki’s track record speaks for itself—she’s transformed businesses with innovative, forward-thinking strategies. But today, we’re diving into something controversial: why traditional 'best practices' in marketing are quickly becoming obsolete.

Jacki argues that as the marketing landscape evolves faster than ever, relying on outdated methods just doesn’t cut it anymore. Instead, she champions a shift towards systems thinking and an aggressive, curiosity-driven approach. We talk about why cold outbound tactics are no longer working, and Jackie shares some creative, fresh strategies for tackling today’s marketing challenges.

Throughout the conversation, Jacki offers a ton of actionable advice on how to adapt to the ever-changing marketing world, solve immediate constraints, and keep pushing the boundaries of innovation. This episode is packed with insights, personal stories, and a good dose of humor. 

If you're looking to rethink your marketing approach and stay ahead of the curve, this one’s for you!

Connect with Jacki:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackileahy/
• Website: https://activatethemagic.com/

Ways to Tune In:

• Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show/id1338838763
• Amazon Music/Audible: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0f4497c6-b402-4cad-9018-1e41b7e8f2bb/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1vVLpNI1LssMTiL6Kdsamn
• Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy50cmFuc2lzdG9yLmZtL3RoZS1oYXJkLWNvcnBzLW1hcmtldGluZy1zaG93

Hard Corps Marketing is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

How is B2B marketing shifting from MQLs to total account engagement, and what strategies can marketers use to stay ahead? In this episode of the Hard Corps Marketing Show, Gina Spero, Head of Growth Marketing at Archive360, dives deep into the changing world of B2B enterprise sales and marketing. Gone are the days of relying solely on traditional metrics like MQLs—today, it’s all about total account engagement. Gina shares actionable strategies for marketers to stay ahead of the curve, from team-based approaches and strategic segmentation to the power of personalization and interpreting intent signals.

With a mix of real-world examples, a dash of humor, and insights into the non-linear buying journey, Gina helps marketers rethink how they connect with prospects and customers. She also offers practical tips on leveraging marketing tools, aligning sales and marketing teams, and much more!

Plus, get to know Gina a bit better as she shares some personal anecdotes—like her passion for skydiving—making this conversation both informative and engaging.

Don’t miss out on this must-watch episode to level up your marketing game!

Connect with Gina:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-spero/
• Website: https://www.archive360.com/

Ways to Tune In:

• Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show/id1338838763
• Amazon Music/Audible: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0f4497c6-b402-4cad-9018-1e41b7e8f2bb/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1vVLpNI1LssMTiL6Kdsamn
• Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy50cmFuc2lzdG9yLmZtL3RoZS1oYXJkLWNvcnBzLW1hcmtldGluZy1zaG93

Hard Corps Marketing is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

Think hiring more salespeople will solve your revenue problems? Think again! What really drives growth? In this must-watch episode of the Hard Corps Marketing Show, I sit down with Kevin McCann, President and CEO of Executive Strategy Group, to uncover powerful revenue growth strategies! 🚀

We challenge the common misconception that hiring more salespeople is the solution to revenue challenges. Instead, Kevin shares expert insights on optimizing sales processes, aligning marketing and sales teams, and equipping sales reps with the right tools for success. 📊

Discover how tracking key performance indicators can transform your business. With his extensive experience, Kevin offers practical steps to increase revenue, reduce expenses, and mitigate risk. 💡

Join us for an engaging conversation filled with actionable strategies and valuable lessons from Kevin's entrepreneurial journey and consulting expertise. Don't miss out—hit that subscribe button and turn on notifications for more insightful content! 🔔✨

Connect with Kevin:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinamccann/
• Website: https://executivestrategygroup.com/
• Email: [email protected]

Ways to Tune In:

• Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show/id1338838763
• Amazon Music/Audible: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0f4497c6-b402-4cad-9018-1e41b7e8f2bb/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1vVLpNI1LssMTiL6Kdsamn
• Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy50cmFuc2lzdG9yLmZtL3RoZS1oYXJkLWNvcnBzLW1hcmtldGluZy1zaG93

Hard Corps Marketing is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

Have you ever needed to navigate the haunting challenges of audience targeting and brand positioning? 👻 This week, I had a frightening conversation with Kathy Guzmán Galloway about some eerie subjects: identifying the right audience, the risks of broad targeting, and effective brand positioning. Tune in to the latest episode of the Hard Corps Marketing Show for insights that will keep your marketing strategy from going bump in the night! 

Kathy is the CEO and Head Wizard at The Clarity Wizard, bringing over 20 years of CPG expertise to the table. ✨ With experience across more than 30 product categories, she’s a master in Brand Positioning, Brand Purpose, and Innovation. Join us to explore her magical insights this Halloween season! 🎃

Connect with Kathy:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathygalloway/ 
• Website: https://www.theclaritywizard.com/ 
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yes_kg_is_me/ 

Shoutouts:

• Balloon Water: https://balloonwater.com/ 
• Dr. Bonnie Wilder: https://www.runningtheextramiles.com/about
  
  

Ways to Tune In:

• Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show/id1338838763
• Amazon Music/Audible: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0f4497c6-b402-4cad-9018-1e41b7e8f2bb/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1vVLpNI1LssMTiL6Kdsamn
• Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy50cmFuc2lzdG9yLmZtL3RoZS1oYXJkLWNvcnBzLW1hcmtldGluZy1zaG93

Hard Corps Marketing is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

What key strategies can turn dreams into reality, even when the odds are stacked against you? In this exciting episode of the Hard Corps Marketing Show, I’m thrilled to chat with Steven Pivnik, an incredibly inspiring entrepreneur and athlete. Steven shares his remarkable journey—from being an immigrant and college dropout to completing an astonishing 17 Ironman triathlons and building a successful global tech business.

We explore the power of visualization and how it has played a pivotal role in his life, along with the importance of tracking key metrics to drive progress. Steven also emphasizes the critical impact of perseverance and mentorship on his path to success.

Throughout our conversation, he offers practical insights on setting and achieving ambitious goals, drawing from his own experiences and his passion for helping others succeed. So, if you’re looking for motivation and actionable advice to transform your big dreams into reality, you won’t want to miss this episode! Tune in and get inspired! 💡

Connect with Steven:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenpivnik/
• Website: https://stevenpivnik.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/steven.pivnik/
• Book: https://www.amazon.com/Built-Finish-Distance-Business-Life/dp/B0CB9HWSGW 

Ways to Tune In:

• Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show/id1338838763
• Amazon Music/Audible: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0f4497c6-b402-4cad-9018-1e41b7e8f2bb/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1vVLpNI1LssMTiL6Kdsamn
• Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy50cmFuc2lzdG9yLmZtL3RoZS1oYXJkLWNvcnBzLW1hcmtldGluZy1zaG93

Hard Corps Marketing is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/ 

Is AI really a waste of money for marketers? 🤔 What are the hidden costs and challenges of deploying AI in marketing, and how can businesses balance automation with human engagement effectively? In this episode, I chat with expert Christopher Antonopoulos about the hidden costs and challenges of using AI in marketing. He dives into the common pitfalls businesses face—like data accuracy issues and misclassifying customers—while highlighting how AI can enhance sales and competitive intelligence.

We also explore the balance between automation and the human touch, discussing how to integrate AI into our daily tasks without losing creativity. Join us for some thought-provoking insights and practical strategies for harnessing AI's potential effectively.

Connect with Christopher:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cantonopoulos/
• Email: [email protected]
• Website: http://www.measuredresultsmarketing.com/

Ways to Tune In:

• Apple Podcasts:  https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show/id1338838763
• Amazon Music/Audible: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/0f4497c6-b402-4cad-9018-1e41b7e8f2bb/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Spotify:  https://open.spotify.com/show/1vVLpNI1LssMTiL6Kdsamn
• Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/the-hard-corps-marketing-show
• Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy50cmFuc2lzdG9yLmZtL3RoZS1oYXJkLWNvcnBzLW1hcmtldGluZy1zaG93

Hard Corps Marketing is produced and sponsored by Ringmaster, on a mission to create connections through branded podcasts. Learn more at https://ringmaster.com/