The Visionary Chronicles

By Bryan SmeltzerBusiness Entrepreneurship Marketing Management

The Visionary Chronicles episodes

December 17, 2021CREATIVITY | How to Maximize IDEA Flow
The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST

CHRONICLE: December 17th, 2021

"I can't understand why people are frightened of new ideas. I'm frightened of the old ones..."
Wisdom from John Cage

PODCAST: CREATIVITY | How to Maximize IDEA Flow

2018, LinkedIn Survey; Creativity is the number sought-after soft skillset.

Creativity is a Cornerstone for an Innovative Thinker and a Progressive Brand. The ability to consistently think of great IDEAS, understand the impact at a brand level, and ensure they are commercialized is a trait few possess and even are willing to explore.
Exploration is a crucial piece for Creativity; having the guts to do what others say is "Impossible" and pursue a Dream and bring it to Reality for others to see. This Exploration brings excitement and passion to a brand. The willingness to FAIL, and FAIL again for the pursuit of reaching the pinnacle of success. Those who are willing to take this challenge, not just once, but make it part of their DNA, their core Identity will succeed, not only in their markets but with their teams and community as well!
With Exploration comes an Artisty around successfully realizing your great IDEA. The creative mastery around molding the IDEA to match your Identity.
The Artist is the one who knows what the painting looks like before a brush is put to canvas. So be an Artist, understand the beauty behind the product, making your communities life more accessible and non-burdensome. The Simple Sophistication of a great product and the Artistry to deliver on your Brand Promise.
To Maximize IDEA flow, you must first be committed to Exploring, embracing Failure, and being an Artist, and all are collectively generating insanely GREAT IDEAS.
What are the areas required to Promote Creativity?
Free Flowing Ideas and Pace: The quicker a decision is made, the better the company. However, having a Brand committed to providing an environment to Create, and generate IDEAS, is one that will never run short on Innovation.
Free your Mind, let the process take its Pace, provide boundaries and ensure these IDEAS are processed, commercialized, or blown up to make it great!
Be a Cognitive Thinker vs. a Logical Mindset; Take your time when flushing our IDEAS, understand the implication to the brand and your community. Then, find solutions through Great IDEAS.
Leave the Door Open; Allow IDEAS to enter the Creativity process, do not be quick to judge, and ensure Cognitive Thinkers are at the table, the Creative doers.
Only the Smart Illusion; Creativity is Cognitive, and why the Logic may not always be the best trait in building an Innovative Culture. Intelligence is often misplaced, put in the correct location it can be very productive, placed in the wrong location is disastrous. Having the ability to think of what "could be" vs. "what is" is the DIFFERENCE!
Implement Balance; When Steve Jobs took over at PIXAR, he implemented the "pluses" policy, meaning every negative needed to be balanced with a plus. This simple policy broke down gridlock at PIXAR and was integral to creating their first blockbuster, Toy Story.
More is Less; Brands feel the Ideation process is better served with more people providing more Ideas…the opposite is true; the best Ideation process, where it provides the best IDEAS, is one where the mindset is common Logic is left at the Door. Cognitive THINKERS ONLY!

Many leaders agree that Innovation and Creativity are the most sought-after traits, but most do nothing to promote creating a Culture where Cognitive Thinkers can thrive!

Stay True, stay Authentic, be Different, be Great!
Enjoy the Journey!
Bryan Smeltzer, President

#TheVisionaryChronicles PODCAST
#TheVisionaryBrandBook
LiquidMind Inc.
@LiquidMindsite.com
@BryanSmeltzer.com

© All rights reserved, Bryan Smeltzer, 2021

THE VISIONARY CHRONICLES PODCAST
In my new Podcast, CREATIVITY | How to Maximize IDEA Flow, I discuss how understanding the exploration process, embracing Risk and a commitment to providing an environment where you embrace Failure is key to generating insanely Great IDEAS.

The Visionary Chronicles Podcast

We discuss this and other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Small Business Owners.

Please check out "The Visionary Chronicles" on these sites.
Available on

Podbean
Apple Podcast
Spotify
iHeart
Pandora
Amazon
GOOGLE

If you like what you hear, I would appreciate you providing a rating and following to receive my weekly Podcasts, along with exclusive content as a follower.
Subscribe to The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST, and receive The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter, along with a FREE Vision Notepad.

Visionary Interviews, I will be doing some upcoming interviews with some icons in the industry. If you happen to know of someone I may want to interview, please let me know. Just provide some brief information, and if it works, we will reach out.

LiquidMind
a Brand Strategy Firm for those looking to disrupt their industry, build a global digital platform, business execution leadership, or just need someone who understands your business's complexities and can provide solutions.
#LiquidMIndsite.com
@LiquidMindsite.com

© All rights reserved, Bryan Smeltzer, 2021
21 min
December 09, 2021Leadership Traits | How to Identify and Succeed
The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST
CHRONICLE: December 9th, 2021
Inspiration "Leadership is the art of getting someone else to do something you want done because he wants to do it..."
Wisdom from Dwight D. Eisenhower

Leadership Traits | How to Identify & Succeed
There are many leadership traits, each is unique, and each is either a strength or a weakness. Those who are humble enough to identify their inherent weaknesses and build them into strength will gain loyalty, and those who choose to ignore these weaknesses inevitably fail.
Having been a part of some of the most iconic brands and working with these leaders, I have found most embrace a Vision, and most can see the future. One way or another, find a way to bring it to reality. They are iconic, but each had a weakness; some recognized it, others ignored it.
In being a Leader, you must get the team together cohesively to execute your Strategy. Feeling as if you are part of and contributing to a brand's success is something all groups want to be a part of and want it ingrained into their Culture. Leaders who lack the self-awareness to address their weaknesses damage the Brand itself and its Culture, both very difficult to repair.
In looking at these Leaders from inside, and outside perspectives, I have found the following Traits to be the most common. Each is unique, each carries common weaknesses and strengths, but there are Counter traits to correct flaws.
Overconfidence, in most instances, this a very positive Leadership, but when a Leader overpromises and sets unrealistic expectations, the Brand suffers.
Typically the flaw comes from being a short-term planner, not a long-term thinker, and short-sighted on what it will take to execute the plan and the competitive reaction.
Counter;
Debate and invite Conversation.
Do not be so quick to decide without input.
Do not alienate and invite alternative opinions.
Ensure you understand long-term implications.
Impulsive, you crave the satisfaction of having made a decision, even though you may not have thoroughly worked through the impact across the Brand. You are not contemplating what is required to execute the plan and the consequences of your decision.
Counter;
Take your time and integrate data.
Understand your overriding Strategy.
Understand consequences.
Rigid, Firm, you control the environment, stick to a process and ensure everyone follows with no change considered. This Leader stifles creativity, eliminates risk, wants predictability, and a result, kills off innovation.
Counter;
Be open about Decisions.
Take some Risks.
Build Trust with the Team.
Be Curious.
Insecure, you worry about decisions, those around you, and what they may think.
You are often taken advantage of without resistance, and as a result, Trust is degraded.
Counter;
Understand your Fears.
Address Best & Worst case scenarios.
Find opportunities to Succeed.
Relive Successes.

All Leaders have frailties, and most are not considered Visionary, but understanding your Weaknesses and finding ways to Strengthen your faults will build loyalty and Trust with your team and your Brand!
                        Stay True, stay Authentic, be Different, be Great!
                        Enjoy the Journey!
                        Bryan Smeltzer, President

                        LiquidMind Inc.
                        @LiquidMindsite.com
                        @BryanSmeltzer.com

                        © All rights reserved, Bryan Smeltzer, 2021

Podcast     In my new Podcast, Leadership Traits | How to Identify & Succeed, I discuss how to identify common Leadership Traits, the pros and cons of each, and counteractions to take if you find yourself with an inherent weakness.

The Visionary Chronicles Podcast
We discuss this and other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Small Business Owners.
Please check out "The Visionary Chronicles" on these sites.
Available on
Podbean
Apple Podcast
Spotify
iHeart
Pandora
Amazon
Google

If you like what you hear, I would appreciate you providing a rating and following to receive my weekly Podcasts, along with exclusive content as a follower.

Subscribe to The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST, and receive The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter, along with a FREE Vision Notepad.

Visionary Interviews, I will be doing some upcoming interviews with some icons in the industry. If you happen to know of someone I may want to interview, please let me know. Just provide some brief information, and if it works, we will reach out.
Visionary Interviews

LiquidMind
a Brand Strategy Firm for those looking to disrupt their industry, build a global digital platform, business execution leadership, or just need someone who understands your business's complexities and can provide solutions.
25 min
November 12, 2021Persevere | How to Adapt to Opportunities and Succeed
The Visionary Chronicles Podcast
CHRONICLE: November 15th, 2021
"Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower..."
Wisdom from Steve

Persevere | How to Adapt to Opportunities and Succeed
In the environment we currently find ourselves in; it may be counterintuitive to suggest finding an opportunity to succeed versus maintaining the status quo.
I have worked directly with and met many global leaders, visionaries, those who set the path forward for brands. I found a common trait with each of these leaders, PERSEVERANCE, the ability to remain steadfast in executing on their VISION despite the difficulty in achieving its success. Perseverance is a trait that is easier said than done, and those who authentically have it more often than not succeed where others fail.
I have found over the years in being a part of or working directly with these global ICONIC brands (Oakley, TaylorMade, adidas, Nike, etc.), each has always found a way to set the path forward regardless of the fog that lies ahead.
It is one thing to define an opportunity; it is another to execute on the path to achieve its success. I have found there to be five distinct areas most of these visionaries and companies have in common when faced with realizing these new opportunities;
Stick to your Path/Plan, always take two steps forward, continue to progress. Remain flexible, divert when necessary, but assure the new direction ultimately achieves your Vision.
Do not listen to naysayers. Visionaries are always ahead of those who are behind in their thinking. Be sensitive to opinions, but understand each must move the company towards realizing the new opportunity. Be a team, but be a leader. The road ahead in a crisis is full of barriers; take them on one by one.
Be realistic; it will take you longer than you think and cost more money than you had planned.
Be creative, whether it be product, financing, logistics, find a way to provide value to those who engage with and buy from your brand.
Have thick skin; you will be hit on all sides, be sure to stand tall, remain persistent, engage your team, and communicate continually.
Defining an opportunity is easy; executing on your Vision is difficult.
This is a "once in a lifetime" opportunity to establish your company, drive revenue growth, and secure your future.
Remember, define your Vision, have a Plan, set your path, support your team, communicate relentlessly, persevere through the barrios, and you will succeed.
Stay True, stay Authentic, be Different, be Great!
Enjoy the Journey!

Bryan Smeltzer, President
LiquidMind Inc.

@LiquidMindsite.com
@BryanSmeltzer.com

© All rights reserved, Bryan Smeltzer, 2021
In my new Podcast, Persevere | How to Adapt to Opportunities and Succeed, I discuss how to find an opportunity through a disruption, execute a cohesive plan, and succeed.

The Visionary Chronicles Podcast
We discuss this and other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Small Business Owners.
Please check out "The Visionary Chronicles" on these sites.
Available on
Podbean
Apple Podcast
Spotify
Amazon PODCASTS
Google PODCASTS
iHeart
Pandora
If you like what you hear, I would appreciate you providing a rating and following to receive my weekly Podcasts, along with exclusive content as a follower.
Subscribe to The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST, and receive The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter, along with a FREE Vision Notepad.
Visionary Interviews, I will be doing some upcoming interviews with some icons in the industry. If you happen to know of someone, I may want to interview, please let me know. Just provide some brief information, and if it works, we will reach out.
LiquidMind
A Brand Strategy Firm for those looking to disrupt their industry, build a global digital platform, business execution leadership, or just need someone who understands your business's complexities and can provide solutions.

THE VISIONARY CHRONICLES PODCAST

Bryan Smeltzers Podcast on driving your brand forward, reinvigorating your passion, while continuing to maintain and sustain your Vision for long term revenue growth.
Discussions around disruptive strategies, and executable market drivers that provide a unique point of difference for you and your brand.
We discuss this along with other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners.
He is the author of The Visionary Brand, a book on how brands sustain and maintain their Vision over generations.
Bryan is currently President of LiquidMind Inc., a global brand strategy firm located in Southern California.

If you enjoy The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, would be great if you could please leave a short Review at;
• iTunes/Apple Podcasts/The Visionary Chronicles
It takes about a minute and supports our growth and reach to others, along with getting some awesome interviews.
Please check out The Visionary Chronicles on these sites;
• Apple Podcast
• Podbean
• Spotify
• iHeart
• Pandora
The Visionary Chronicles RSS Feed (use for PODCAST players);
• https://feed.podbean.com/bryansmeltzer/feed.xml
Sign up for The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter at;
• The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter
Interested in Sponsoring The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, or a segment? Please fill out this form;
• bryansmeltzer.com/contact/
Follow me on the following social sites.
• @liquidmindsite on Facebook
• @liquidmindsite on Twitter
• @bryansmeltzer33 on Facebook
• @bryansmeltzer on Twitter
• in/bryansmeltzer on Linkedin
21 min
November 03, 2021THE VISIONARY CHRONICLES: Direct to Consumer Success | How to Thrive in DTC Business
The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST

CHRONICLE: November 4th, 2021

Inspiration "Good, better, best. Never let it rest. 'Til your good is better, and your better is best..."
Wisdom from St. Jerome

DTC Success | How to Thrive in Direct to Consumer Business

In my new PODCAST, I discuss defining, building, and growing your DTC channel and creating an authentic lifestyle experience.
Successful DTC brands devise a strategy around their core principles, representing a clear "point of difference" from their competitors, category or service and channel.
A brand must define these competitive weapons and deploy them across all lines of defense. These weapons include; digital marketing tiers and metrics analysis allowing you to pivot as needed, strategic and focused social media site development and growth, and authentic community engagement and user base growth. Developing a strategic, ongoing, and relevant game plan will allow a brand to protect its hard-earned equity and product positioning.
Another critical piece to successfully deploy your DTC business is defining your expectations across several tiers. Too many companies and brands we work with through LiquidMind (LiquidMindsite.com) have a very narrow focus, tunnel vision! Broaden and understand the actual landscape you face with DTC, both expansion opportunities and competitive challenges. These will encompass both tangible and intangible metrics. With so much data available, understanding the reasoning behind the numbers, along with the proper application of resources and investments, will determine your success, which means not merely throwing money at an opportunity without first analyzing the demo target and investment required to have an impact.
This investment and analysis require a deep dive to understand the landscape and if you want to become a big fish in a small pond or little fish in the ocean of other brands and similar products. Find your "open" water, define your platforms and understand the success metrics, both tangible and intangible.
The issue with many DTC models is they consider only the tangible but miss on the intangible. For example, all considerations and analyses are attrition, ROAS, CPC, CAC, price point compression, Loyalty, LTV, competitive set, and capabilities.
There are several areas I have defined through our work with both global and start-up brands which has allowed them to sustain long-term success with their DTC business;
Product Innovation Pipeline, constantly be introducing new products and drawing previous generations. So control the supply/demand curve!
Master your Core Business before moving into other categories; master your current category. Don't get greedy; stick to what you know, then migrate.
Provide Value beyond Product; the product is present; Value is the future. Once your community has purchased your product, this is where LTV is maximized. Keep them engaged, provide Value!
Build your Loyalty Loop, clearly understand the customer journey, and make their engagement experience easy.
Create a Relationship, personalize, personalize, personalize! Proactively understand the needs of your customer, both product and experience.
Building, growing, and sustaining your DTC business will provide band equity creation and long-term community loyalty, and the ability to control your destiny.
Stay True, stay Authentic, be Different, be Great!
Enjoy the Journey!
Bryan Smeltzer, President
LiquidMind Inc.
@LiquidMindsite.com
@BryanSmeltzer.com

© All rights reserved, Bryan Smeltzer, 2021

The Visionary Chronicles Podcast
I discuss this and other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Small Business Owners.
Please check out "The Visionary Chronicles" on these sites.
Available on
Podbean
Apple Podcast
Spotify
iHeart
Pandora
Amazon
Google

If you like what you hear, I would appreciate you providing a rating and following to receive my weekly Podcasts, along with exclusive content as a follower.

Subscribe to The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST, and receive The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter, along with a FREE Vision Notepad.

Visionary Interviews, I will be doing some upcoming interviews with some icons in the industry. If you happen to know of someone I may want to interview, please let me know. Just provide some brief information, and if it works, we will reach out.

LiquidMind
A Brand Strategy Firm for those looking to disrupt their industry, build a global digital platform, business execution leadership, or just need someone who understands your business's complexities and can provide solutions.
Check us out at LiquidMindsite.com

Bryan Smeltzers Podcast on driving your brand forward, reinvigorating your passion, while continuing to maintain and sustain your Vision for long-term revenue growth.
Discussions around disruptive strategies, and executable market drivers that provide a unique point of difference for you and your brand.
We discuss this along with other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners.

He is the author of The Visionary Brand, a book on how brands sustain and maintain their Vision over generations.
Bryan is currently President of LiquidMind Inc., a global brand strategy firm located in Southern California.
If you enjoy The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, would be great if you could please leave a short Review at;
iTunes/Apple Podcasts/The Visionary Chronicles
It takes about a minute and supports our growth and reach to others, along with getting some awesome interviews.

The Visionary Chronicles RSS Feed (use for PODCAST players);
https://feed.podbean.com/bryansmeltzer/feed.xml
Sign up for The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter at;
The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter
Interested in Sponsoring The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, or a segment? Please fill out this form;
bryansmeltzer.com/contact/
Follow me on the following social sites.
@liquidmindsite on Facebook
@liquidmindsite on Twitter
@bryansmeltzer33 on Facebook
@bryansmeltzer on Twitter
in/bryansmeltzer on Linkedin
23 min
October 26, 2021Innovation Strategy | How to Implement an Innovation Driven Culture
The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST

CHRONICLE: October 28th, 2021
"If we are to preserve culture, we must continue to create it...."
Wisdom from Johan Huzinga
PODCAST
Innovation Strategy | How to Effectively Implement an Innovation-Driven Culture

In my new PODCAST, I discuss integrating an innovation-driven culture inside your brand and the commitment it takes to succeed.
TRUE blood Brands find a way to set a Vision driven by an authentic need to Innovate, and Disrupt the Status Quo in their industry or product category.
With LiquidMind, I often am asked, "Where do I start?". For starters, Innovation is an engrained cultural phenomenon. Yes, a phenomenon, something intangible, built into a brand's culture, something you can SEE and FEEL. Thinks of brands, even though you may not be a part of their company, where you can FEEL and SEE the consistently great Innovation they aspire others to achieve!
Being an Innovator is something that is earned, something committed to throughout the company. It is protected by those Artists and Creators whose sole intent is to preserve the SOUL of the brand.
But, where is a company to start? First, it begins at the top, with a Vision to be "Best in Class" and a leader for others to follow. To attain this status, you are forced to innovate, not just one time…" no ONE HIT wonders allowed"…but continually and consistently, generation to generation, always GREAT!
There are several steps to implementing this strategy, and all I discuss in PODCAST, The Visionary Chronicles;
Create, and commit to a Shared Vision. Disrupt, and eliminate your competition.
Define the Team and expectations. Ensure they have your full support, for failure is inevitable and required to sustain success. Ensure you have "checkpoints," but not barriers to realizing a great Idea, always moving forward.
Provide proper resources and tools to succeed on the Vision. Provide oxygen, do not leave your marching to the summit of Everest without the adequate resources to survive.
Define the opportunity and proper fit with your brand. Ensure everyone understands both the positioning and culture.
get out of the way! Disruption is a fast-moving train; you will succeed if you have the right Team with the proper resources!

Innovation is more easily said than done; it takes a commitment to RISK and embracing FAILURE!
                        Stay True, stay Authentic, be Different, be Great!
                        Enjoy the Journey!
Bryan Smeltzer, President
LiquidMind Inc.
@LiquidMindsite.com
@BryanSmeltzer.com
                        © All rights reserved, Bryan Smeltzer, 2021

The Visionary Chronicles Podcast
I discuss this and other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Small Business Owners.

Please check out "The Visionary Chronicles" on these sites.
Available on

Podbean
Apple Podcast
Spotify
iHeart
Pandora

If you like what you hear, I would appreciate you providing a rating and following to receive my weekly Podcasts, along with exclusive content as a follower.
Updates     Subscribe to The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST, and receive The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter, along with a FREE Vision Notepad.

Visionary Interviews, I will be doing some upcoming interviews with some icons in the industry. If you happen to know of someone I may want to interview, please let me know. Just provide some brief information, and if it works, we will reach out.
LiquidMind
A Brand Strategy Firm for those looking to disrupt their industry, build a global digital platform, business execution leadership, or just need someone who understands your business's complexities and can provide solutions.
© All Copyrights Reserved, Bryan Smeltzer

THE VISIONARY CHRONICLES PODCAST

Bryan Smeltzers Podcast on driving your brand forward, reinvigorating your passion, while continuing to maintain and sustain your Vision for long-term revenue growth.
Discussions around disruptive strategies, and executable market drivers that provide a unique point of difference for you and your brand.

We discuss this along with other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners.

He is the author of The Visionary Brand, a book on how brands sustain and maintain their Vision over generations.
Bryan is currently President of LiquidMind Inc., a global brand strategy firm located in Southern California.

If you enjoy The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, would be great if you could please leave a short Review at;
iTunes/Apple Podcasts/The Visionary Chronicles
It takes about a minute and supports our growth and reach to others, along with getting some awesome interviews.

The Visionary Chronicles RSS Feed (use for PODCAST players);
https://feed.podbean.com/bryansmeltzer/feed.xml
Sign up for The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter at;
The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter
Interested in Sponsoring The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, or a segment? Please fill out this form;
bryansmeltzer.com/contact/
Follow me on the following social sites.
@liquidmindsite on Facebook
@liquidmindsite on Twitter
@bryansmeltzer33 on Facebook
@bryansmeltzer on Twitter
in/bryansmeltzer on Linkedin
21 min
October 15, 2021Authentication | Foundational of a Brand‘s Success
The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST

CHRONICLE: October 15th, 2021

"The authentic self is the soul made visible..."
Wisdom from Sarah Ben Breathnach

PODCAST: Authentication | Foundation to a Brand's Success

In my new PODCAST, I discuss Authentication, what it is in by definition, and how Brands can assure they are Truly Authentic.
Most Brands realize that being Authentic is an essential piece of building long-term Loyalty; however, I have found that most do not know what it MEANS to be Authentic. It is an interesting dynamic, and one most Brands never commit to realizing in their day-to-day.
Being Authentic by definition is;
not false or copied; genuine; real
representing one's true nature or beliefs; true to oneself or the person identified
entitled to acceptance or belief because of agreement with known facts or experience
Your Authentic Brand ID has many different Elements, both tangible and non-tangible, equally crucial to creating a winning Formula, assuring you are staying true to your authentic foundational pillars and brand ETHOS.
You have the Traditional Brand ID Elements; Positioning, Mission, Vision, Personality, and Core Competencies. You also have the non-tangible Elements most Brands forget about or do not commit to; Value, Relationships, Culture, Expression. These, in most instances, are more important than tangible elements. These are the ONES that separate GREAT Brands from AVERAGE Brands!
The Brand that can consistently execute, commit to and support these core elements of a successful company are the ones who will be generational. Just look at some of the brands who fit this mold;
Apple
Nike
Adidas
Google
Tesla
Having the courage to commit to being Great starts with your Foundational Pillars, those on which your Brand was built. Understanding first the Vision, second how to Execute, and third assuring you are Committed to supporting these Pillars stand.
Stay True, stay Authentic, be Different, be Great!
Enjoy the Journey!
Bryan Smeltzer, President
LiquidMind Inc.
@LiquidMindsite.com
@BryanSmeltzer.com
© All rights reserved, Bryan Smeltzer, 2021

THE VISIONARY CHRONICLES PODCAST

Bryan Smeltzers Podcast on driving your brand forward, reinvigorating your passion, while continuing to maintain and sustain your Vision for long-term revenue growth.
Discussions around disruptive strategies, and executable market drivers that provide a unique point of difference for you and your brand.

We discuss this along with other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners.

He is the author of The Visionary Brand, a book on how brands sustain and maintain their Vision over generations.
Bryan is currently President of LiquidMind Inc., a global brand strategy firm located in Southern California.
If you enjoy The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, would be great if you could please leave a short Review at;
iTunes/Apple Podcasts/The Visionary Chronicles
It takes about a minute and supports our growth and reach to others, along with getting some awesome interviews.
Please check out The Visionary Chronicles on these sites;
Apple Podcast
Podbean
Spotify
iHeart
Pandora
The Visionary Chronicles RSS Feed (use for PODCAST players);
https://feed.podbean.com/bryansmeltzer/feed.xml
Sign up for The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter at;
The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter
Interested in Sponsoring The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, or a segment? Please fill out this form;
bryansmeltzer.com/contact/
Follow me on the following social sites.
@liquidmindsite on Facebook
@liquidmindsite on Twitter
@bryansmeltzer33 on Facebook
@bryansmeltzer on Twitter
in/bryansmeltzer on Linkedin
If you like what you hear, I would appreciate you providing a rating and following to receive my weekly Podcasts, along with exclusive content as a follower.

Subscribe to The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST, and receive The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter, along with a FREE Vision Notepad.

Visionary Interviews, I will be doing some upcoming interviews with some icons in the industry. If you happen to know of someone, I may want to interview, please let me know. Just provide some brief information, and if it works, we will reach out.

LiquidMind
A Brand Strategy Firm for those looking to disrupt their industry, build a global digital platform, business execution leadership, or just need someone who understands your business's complexities and can provide solutions.
15 min
October 07, 2021Breakaway Products | Establishing a First Move Advantage
The Visionary Chronicles
CHRONICLE: October 7th, 2021
"There is no innovation and creativity without failure. Period..."
Wisdom from Brene Brown
Breakaway Products | Establishing a First Mover Advantage

In my new PODCAST, I discuss how Brands who have committed themselves to execute a Product Innovation platform driven by Failure and led through Breakaway goals is a Formula for Success
No great product has EVER been created without first failing! Failure is part of the process, but Failure also entails Managing Risk. The Risk is that things will not turn out as you had planned, but this part of being a generational leader, one who Disrupts while others are complacent.
Being able to find a way to Disrupt through Breakaway Products, ones that are Generational in their impact is the pinnacle of Brand innovation. To have this process integrated into your Brand, you first need to understand the commitment required, not just seasonally but all year long! This is where most brands jump off the boat for fear of failure, not realizing success.
The Breakaway concept is to realize a product that changes the game in your category, forces others to follow, and changes how we interact or perform in our day-to-day lives. The concept can be technology, consumer products, or any process which changes how we interact daily, and more often than not, something we thought we never needed. As Henry Ford famously said, "If I had asked my customer what they wanted, they would have said… 'a faster horse'." Look where we are at today due to Henry Ford's Vision, a true Visionary, one that changed our mode of transportation!
Being a Visionary means, you embrace Risk, understanding that this is a weapon to create great things or a paralyzing of Failure. Be Visionary, adopt Risk as part of your process, and know that failure is the stepping stone to eventual success. Although not all Risk is brilliant, you must know when to move on, or your Idea will bring you down to earth. Knowing the difference is being a Leader.
Be A Visionary, Be A Risk Taker, Be a Generational Brand! Breakaway from your Competition…

Stay True, stay Authentic, be Different, be Great!
Enjoy the Journey!
Bryan Smeltzer, President
LiquidMind Inc.
@LiquidMindsite.com
@BryanSmeltzer.com

© All rights reserved, Bryan Smeltzer, 2021

The Visionary Chronicles Podcast
I discuss this and other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Small Business Owners.
Please check out "The Visionary Chronicles" on these sites.
Available on
Podbean
Apple Podcast
Spotify
iHeart
Pandora
If you like what you hear, I would appreciate you providing a rating and following to receive my weekly Podcasts, along with exclusive content as a follower.

Subscribe to The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST, and receive The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter, along with a FREE Vision Notepad.

Visionary Interviews, I will be doing some upcoming interviews with some icons in the industry. If you happen to know of someone, I may want to interview, please let me know. Just provide some brief information, and if it works, we will reach out.

LiquidMind
A Brand Strategy Firm for those looking to disrupt their industry, build a global digital platform, business execution leadership, or just need someone who understands your business's complexities and can provide solutions.

© All Copyrights Reserved, Bryan Smeltzer

THE VISIONARY CHRONICLES PODCAST

Bryan Smeltzers Podcast on driving your brand forward, reinvigorating your passion, while continuing to maintain and sustain your Vision for long-term revenue growth.
Discussions around disruptive strategies, and executable market drivers that provide a unique point of difference for you and your brand.
We discuss this along with other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners.

He is the Author of The Visionary Brand, a book on how brands sustain and maintain their Vision over generations.
Bryan is currently President of LiquidMind Inc., a global brand strategy firm located in Southern California.

If you enjoy The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, would be great if you could please leave a short Review at;
iTunes/Apple Podcasts/The Visionary Chronicles
It takes about a minute and supports our growth and reach to others, along with getting some awesome interviews.

The Visionary Chronicles RSS Feed (use for PODCAST players);
https://feed.podbean.com/bryansmeltzer/feed.xml
Sign up for The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter at;
The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter
Interested in Sponsoring The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, or a segment? Please fill out this form;
bryansmeltzer.com/contact/
Follow me on the following social sites.
@liquidmindsite on Facebook
@liquidmindsite on Twitter
@bryansmeltzer33 on Facebook
@bryansmeltzer on Twitter
in/bryansmeltzer on Linkedin
17 min
September 24, 2021Supply Chain Innovation | How to Strengthen your Weaknesses
The Visionary Chronicles
CHRONICLE: September 29nd, 2021
"A wise human would have an understanding of the supply chain and how the pieces fit together. But it's against our nature to think about it..."
Wisdom from Paola Bacigalupi
PODCAST: Supply Chain Innovation | How to Strengthen your Weaknesses
In my new PODCAST, I discuss how businesses have identified the need to update, replace or reimagine their supply chain.

When the pandemic struck, many companies were forced to address their supply chain, and what they found was a weak foundation, one in need of repair long before the pandemic.
In working with global leaders of these brands, we found complacency in which as long as the wheels were turning, all was good; it was not until the wheels stopped that they recognized they did not have an adequate "fail-safe" supply chain.
The pandemic forced these companies to address their supply chain "weak links," strengthen these weaknesses, and assure they can absorb future disruptions. In this instance, they merely looked to manage the pandemic the best they could within the circumstances. They licked their wounds with both consumers and retailers.
In most instances, the strategy they deployed, such as lean manufacturing, was effective while their supply chain was moving, but when it stopped, it proved deadly. The lean method is still an effective strategy but needs additional foundational support around this structure. Support pillars such as; enhanced (multi-category) replicated sourcing, alternate geo-sourcing where political moves do not constrain capacity, increased capacity, and safety stock.
While consumers continue to demand quick-turn at lower prices, what is a brand to do without losing its competitive edge?
There are several key factors when evaluating your supply chain to determine your "fail safe" status;
Risk ID; identify potential risks associated with your supplier base. Issues that need addressing;
Narrow production skillset and outsource component risk. It is crucial to ensuring the vertical supply chain continues to flow. As they say, "never allow a single component to stop a complete unit from shipping."
Manage bandwidth, along with sourcing priority and flexibility. During a crisis, you need to be "top of the food chain" when it comes to contractor priority, and your contractor needs to ensure they have sufficient bandwidth and core expertise to handle sub-contractor "off-loads.
Single source and geopolitical exposure. Ensure you are not held captive; you need to reduce risk exposure.
Chain Map;
map your complete supply chain from end to end! Identify potential threats that could stop the flow. Keep the river running!
Sourcing;
diversification is critical; ensure you have a diversified supply chain from capacity, core skillset, and regional perspective.
Replicate, refine and qualify contractors before you need them. It is a part of brand complacency; they do not need to replicate and expand if the current base is performing. You NEED to think of the "what if's?
Loosen Lean;
Continue with Lean, but add some FAT! The rainy day will come, it is best to have an umbrella when needed.
Add Safety Stock.
Tech your Processes;
Wherever possible, find ways to improve processes and make teams/production more efficient. As a result, you will build a better product and make your brand more competitive.
Add Tech, but Teach! Don't just add and move on- add and Move-in, teach others!
Not all Brands suffered through the pandemic, but most used this as an opportunity to improve!
Stay True, stay Authentic, be Different, be Great!
Enjoy the Journey!
Bryan Smeltzer, President
LiquidMind Inc.
@LiquidMindsite.com
@BryanSmeltzer.com

© All rights reserved, Bryan Smeltzer, 2021

THE VISIONARY CHRONICLES PODCAST:

Bryan Smeltzers Podcast on driving your brand forward, reinvigorating your passion, while continuing to maintain and sustain your Vision for long-term revenue growth.
Discussions around disruptive strategies, and executable market drivers that provide a unique point of difference for you and your brand.

We discuss this along with other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners.

He is the author of The Visionary Brand, a book on how brands sustain and maintain their Vision over generations.
Bryan is currently President of LiquidMind Inc., a global brand strategy firm located in Southern California.

If you enjoy The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, would be great if you could please leave a short Review at;
iTunes/Apple Podcasts/The Visionary Chronicles
It takes about a minute and supports our growth and reach to others, along with getting some awesome interviews.
Please check out The Visionary Chronicles on these sites;
Apple Podcast
Podbean
Spotify
iHeart
Pandora
The Visionary Chronicles RSS Feed (use for PODCAST players);
https://feed.podbean.com/bryansmeltzer/feed.xml
Sign up for The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter at;
The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter
Interested in Sponsoring The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, or a segment? Please fill out this form;
bryansmeltzer.com/contact/
Follow me on the following social sites.
@liquidmindsite on Facebook
@liquidmindsite on Twitter
@bryansmeltzer33 on Facebook
@bryansmeltzer on Twitter
in/bryansmeltzer on Linkedin
The Visionary Chronicles Podcast
I discuss this and other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Small Business Owners.
Please check out "The Visionary Chronicles" on these sites.
Available on
Podbean
Apple Podcast
Spotify
iHeart
Pandora
If you like what you hear, I would appreciate you providing a rating and following to receive my weekly Podcasts, along with exclusive content as a follower.
Subscribe to The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST, and receive The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter, along with a FREE Vision Notepad.

Visionary Interviews, I will be doing some upcoming interviews with some icons in the industry. If you happen to know of someone I may want to interview, please let me know. Just provide some brief information, and if it works, we will reach out.

LiquidMind
A Brand Strategy Firm for those looking to disrupt their industry, build a global digital platform, business execution leadership, or just need someone who understands your business's complexities and can provide solutions.

© All Copyrights Reserved, Bryan Smeltzer,2021
21 min
September 21, 2021Visionary Leadership | How to Realize your Future through a Crisis
The Visionary Chronicles
CHRONICLE: September 22nd, 2021
Inspiration "Leadership is the capacity to translate Vision into Reality..."
Wisdom from Warren Bennis
The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST
VISIONARY LEADERSHIP | How to Realize your Future through a Crisis
In my new PODCAST, I discuss how Visionary leaders execute their strategy through a crisis and the stepped process they use to ensure they stay on track.

To determine your future, you need to analyze the past, determine the current state of your industry, and define opportunities to capture market share growth.
The need to examine your future is especially true as we work our way through the pandemic. Seeing how most, if not all, companies have had to pivot in one direction or another and change the way they operate.
-Adapt or Die!
-Change or die a Slow Death!
Adaptation has been a word thrown around a lot and is a necessary evil for most companies. Being able to adapt is one thing; wanting to adapt is another. Having worked with a very diverse, global group of brands through the pandemic, I can tell you most want to adjust but are fearful of the repercussions in an already unpredictable world! You need to adapt, finding ways to be more efficient, more effective, and more competitive. In the long run, you will come out of the back end of the pandemic in better shape than you were going in.
You need to analyze your path forward, find a way to strengthen your weaknesses and outline your path ahead. The Vision is still intact, ensure the Vision DOES NOT change, but the course to successfully executing the Vision can be altered. Adapt, be Flexible, be Nimble and move fast.
Working directly with these global brands who have successfully pivoted during this pandemic, I have found several key principles we adopted through LiquidMind Inc. to ensure their long-term success. First, they are clearly defined, constantly communicated, and understood by their role in their brand's successful exit through this crisis.
FutureCast;
Take the time at an executive level to clearly understand the new landscape. Define current processes, current resources, and current opportunities. Now define what lies ahead, ideation process of determining what is needed to grow the business, not sustain but grow successfully. Disrupt, innovate and execute at all levels. Communicate the Vision again, determine where changes are needed, and ensure all understand the new landscape.
Reimagine;
Take your FutureCast strategy and step back and reimagine what it will take to execute this new future. Once you have FutureCast, this is the time to take a granular look at your overall business.
Flexibility;
Be ready to Pivot as needed. Not all well-laid plans work; most needed minor or major adjustments. Stubbornness does not work; you must adjust and adapt. Not all plans are bulletproof; sometimes, you need to shoot some holes in them and reinforce or rearrange them to succeed.
Commitment;
Once you have defined the future, stay committed to its success! Your Team, your Brand, and your Future are dependent on this top-down commitment.
Not all plans are successful, but generational success is their reward for those who have a strategy that will win in the long run!
Stay True, stay Authentic, be Different, be Great!
Enjoy the Journey!
Bryan Smeltzer, President
LiquidMind Inc.
@LiquidMindsite.com
@BryanSmeltzer.com

© All rights reserved, Bryan Smeltzer, 2021

The Visionary Chronicles Podcast
I discuss this and other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs, Executives, and Small Business Owners.
Please check out "The Visionary Chronicles" on these sites.
Available on
Podbean
Apple Podcast
Spotify
iHeart
Pandora
If you like what you hear, I would appreciate you providing a rating and following to receive my weekly Podcasts, along with exclusive content as a follower.

Subscribe to The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST, and receive The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter, along with a FREE Vision Notepad.

Visionary Interviews, I will be doing some upcoming interviews with some icons in the industry. If you happen to know of someone I may want to interview, please let me know. Just provide some brief information, and if it works, we will reach out.

LiquidMind
A Brand Strategy Firm for those looking to disrupt their industry, build a global digital platform, business execution leadership, or just need someone who understands your business's complexities and can provide solutions.
© All Copyrights Reserved, Bryan Smeltzer

Bryan Smeltzers Podcast on driving your brand forward, reinvigorating your passion, while continuing to maintain and sustain your Vision for long term revenue growth.
Discussions around disruptive strategies, and executable market drivers that provide a unique point of difference for you and your brand.
We discuss this along with other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners.
He is the author of The Visionary Brand, a book on how brands sustain and maintain their Vision over generations.
Bryan is currently President of LiquidMind Inc., a global brand strategy firm located in Southern California.

If you enjoy The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, would be great if you could please leave a short Review at;
• iTunes/Apple Podcasts/The Visionary Chronicles
It takes about a minute and supports our growth and reach to others, along with getting some awesome interviews.

The Visionary Chronicles RSS Feed (use for PODCAST players);
• https://feed.podbean.com/bryansmeltzer/feed.xml

Sign up for The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter at;
• The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter

Interested in Sponsoring The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, or a segment? Please fill out this form;
• bryansmeltzer.com/contact/
Follow me on the following social sites.
• @liquidmindsite on Facebook
• @liquidmindsite on Twitter
• @bryansmeltzer33 on Facebook
• @bryansmeltzer on Twitter
• in/bryansmeltzer on Linkedin
22 min
September 08, 2021Innovation Matrix | How to Execute an Innovation Process
The Visionary Chronicles PODCAST
CHRONICLE: September 9th, 2021
" Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower..."
Wisdom from Steve Jobs
INNOVATION MATRIX | How to Execute an Innovation Process
In my new PODCAST, I discuss how to define, implement and execute a tiered Innovation process, one that consistently outmaneuvers your competitors.
Building an effective, efficient, and consistent Innovation Driven brand is difficult and why so few have executed the process successfully. Those who have achieved this are richly rewarded, whether through Brand Equity, category leadership, or marketplace acceptance; each continues to add VALUE to the Brand itself.
The Process execution is the Goal, but what is the Process? The implementation is a multi-tier process, each mastered by those committed to relentless innovation and a foundational commitment to a free-flowing ideation flow. With this process in place, these brands know they can command higher price points through both revolutionary and incrementally better products at all price tiers. As a result, squeezing their competition at all levels, eventually moving them out of the market!
Competitors who are not committed to this process or do not know how to execute these Innovation tiers will imitate or move on to another category. Innovators DO NOT imitate; they find ways to Disrupt, building Breakaway products, moving them generations ahead. In sustaining this commitment to a Disruptive Culture, they produce both passionate internal teams and loyal communities committed to their Brand.
So what are these Innovation Matrix Tiers?
TIER I: CORE
You optimize current products, finding ways to improve without having to reinvent.
Life Cycle Adoption: Late Adopters
TIER II: INCREMENTAL
New products that enhance or complement current in-line programs. Provide value beyond current benefits, gain a new tier of consumers.
Life Cycle Adoption: Early Majority
TIER III: INNOVATION
An Ideation process that produces new, innovative products, processes, or services that align with your brand positioning. Provides unique benefits and lifestyle improvements significantly beyond the current product portfolio.
Life Cycle Adoption: Early Adopter
TIER IV: DISRUPTION
Commercializing a Breakaway design IDEA that completely reinvents a previous product or process CREATES a new way or method which significantly improves a process or lifestyle experience. Realizing a product most never knew they needed until it was created!
Life Cycle Adoption: Innovator
The Pinnacle of the Innovation Process is Disruption, and the reason so few are truly classified in this category. You can achieve an effective and consistent Innovation Process; you need to have a clear Vision, stay committed to its execution and embrace Failure to achieve Success.
Stay True, stay Authentic, be Different, be Great!
Enjoy the Journey!
Bryan Smeltzer, President
LiquidMind Inc.
@LiquidMindsite.com
@BryanSmeltzer.com

Bryan Smeltzers Podcast on driving your brand forward, reinvigorating your passion, while continuing to maintain and sustain your Vision for long term revenue growth.
Discussions around disruptive strategies, and executable market drivers that provide a unique point of difference for you and your brand.
We discuss this along with other business strategy topics and pressing issues facing Entrepreneurs and Small Business Owners.
He is the author of The Visionary Brand, a book on how brands sustain and maintain their Vision over generations.
Bryan is currently President of LiquidMind Inc., a global brand strategy firm located in Southern California.
If you enjoy The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, would be great if you could please leave a short Review at;
iTunes/Apple Podcasts/The Visionary Chronicles
It takes about a minute and supports our growth and reach to others, along with getting some awesome interviews.

Please check out The Visionary Chronicles on these sites;
Apple Podcast
Podbean
Spotify
iHeart
Pandora
The Visionary Chronicles RSS Feed (use for PODCAST players);
https://feed.podbean.com/bryansmeltzer/feed.xml
Sign up for The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter at;
The Visionary Chronicles Newsletter
Interested in Sponsoring The Visionary Chronicles Podcast, or a segment? Please fill out this form;
bryansmeltzer.com/contact/
Follow me on the following social sites.
@liquidmindsite on Facebook
@liquidmindsite on Twitter
@bryansmeltzer33 on Facebook
@bryansmeltzer on Twitter
in/bryansmeltzer on Linkedin
21 min

About The Visionary Chronicles

From the publisher's feed

I spent 20 years in executive roles at Oakley, adidas, TaylorMade, and K-Swiss — then built and sold my own brand to a VC firm. Now I run LiquidMind, a brand strategy advisory firm, and I share everything I know on this show.

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