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Ever wondered how financial expertise can transform digital marketing strategies? Join us on the Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur Podcast as Tim Han, CEO and co-founder of TriLux Digital, shares his extraordinary shift from finance to becoming a leader in the digital marketing arena. You’ll discover how Tim’s background in finance fuels his marketing tactics, emphasizing measurable results that translate internet efforts into tangible business outcomes. Through his story, you'll gain insights into the powerful synergy between finance and marketing, offering a fresh perspective on achieving business success in today’s digital landscape.

We explore the art of crafting effective digital marketing strategies, using the analogy of fitness routines to illustrate the balance between organic and inorganic traffic. Tim sheds light on the necessity of tailoring marketing strategies to align with a business’s foundational elements, ensuring that every marketing campaign is built on a solid base. By leveraging comprehensive data-driven methods, discover how to measure impact in terms of financial outcomes rather than just impressions, utilizing advanced tools like Google Analytics and SEMrush to turn numbers into actionable insights. This thoughtful approach highlights the importance of aligning reported metrics with actual business results.

Marketing’s role in business evolution takes center stage as we discuss its impact on growth and transitioning phases. Tim and your host Brian Lofrumento dive into the transformation from traditional marketing techniques to the modern digital arena, underlining the need to adapt to current platforms. They also reflect on AI's emergence as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human creativity. Maintaining authenticity and passion in entrepreneurship remains crucial, and we encourage listeners to harness AI for efficiency while staying true to their unique vision. Packed with valuable insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to harness strategic marketing for entrepreneurial success.

ABOUT TIMOTHY

Timothy Han is the Co-Founder and CEO of TriLux Digital, a full-service digital marketing agency based out of Texas.

Tim integrates over 10 years of business and finance experience into his ROI-focused SEO and paid advertisement strategies. He uses his professional financial perspective to ensure that every digital marketing client's top-line growth is at the forefront of every decision, with his methodical nature allowing him to diligently adjust strategies and be effortlessly nimble in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

What sets him apart from other agencies is that he is hands-on and an active part of every client's marketing strategy, and holds frequent face-to-face meetings that ensure clients are informed, empowered partners in their digital marketing endeavors. His systematic, but holistic, approach helps remain cost-conscious while keeping every client's budget and goals as utmost priority. Tim takes providing trust, value, and engagement very seriously as he and his team strive to amplify your business's digital potential.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit TriLux Digital’s Website
• Follow TriLux Digital on LinkedIn
• Connect with Timothy on LinkedIn

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Unlock the power of storytelling in your business with Kris Jones, a master storyteller who has reshaped the landscape of brand communication. Kris began her journey in brand design in the early 2000s and has since become a pioneer in storytelling for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Her innovative Story Selling System has transformed how businesses craft impactful website copy, turning narratives into potent sales tools. Through her expertise, Kris has guided numerous businesses to achieve remarkable results, such as increased revenue and enhanced client engagement.

Discover the art of crafting a Signature Story, likened to an accordion, that can be adapted across different platforms while maintaining consistency. This approach not only amplifies your brand's memorability but also simplifies your marketing efforts, allowing them to operate seamlessly. Kris delves into the importance of stripping away the noise to focus on the essential elements of your brand story, creating a cohesive narrative that resonates with your audience. Learn how to create your Brand Copy Bible, a comprehensive document that streamlines your marketing strategy by providing ready-to-use content for various platforms.

Transform your sales calls into genuine connections through storytelling. Kris shares how clarity in one's narrative can boost sales confidence, as seen in the case of her client Andrea, who drastically improved her closing rate. By guiding clients through a structured storytelling process, you can obtain impactful testimonials and enhance client experiences. Tune in for insights and inspiration that cater to both aspiring and established entrepreneurs.

ABOUT KRIS

Most business owners miss out on sales because their website copy isn’t working. The truth is, being good at what you do is very different than being good at talking about what you do. Kris Jones’s Signature Story-Selling System helps consultants, coaches, and service providers replace all their marketing with a single story so they can attract more clients, amplify revenue and enjoy more time freedom.

Kris founded Red Door Stories in 2003 and was mentored by Donald Miller, Author of Building a StoryBrand. She's worked with high-profile companies, including Nike and Adidas, but her favorite clients are self-employed service providers because they struggle the most with copywriting and can experience the greatest benefits once they get their Story right.

Kris believes that writing copy for your own business doesn’t have to feel like torture. In fact, once you know how to tell a compelling Signature Story, it can actually be fast, easy, and fun.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Red Door Designs’ Website
• Connect with Kris on LinkedIn

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What if the secret to successful marketing lies in authenticity and genuine connections? Join us as Alisha Chranya, the trailblazing founder and CEO of Society Unlocked, unveils her journey from a marketing student to launching her own agency at just 23. Alicia passionately believes in the transformative power of micro-influencers over traditional advertising, emphasizing the need for authentic voices in brand promotion. Her narrative not only explores the innovative marketing landscape but also highlights her dedication to truthfulness and building lasting consumer relationships.

Discover how Society Unlocked is redefining marketing strategies for hospitality brands by leveraging the potency of micro-influencers. Alisha shares candid insights into the uphill battle of persuading traditional business owners to embrace this modern approach, offering a compelling argument for its cost-effectiveness and genuine consumer engagement. The episode delves into the challenges of content authenticity and how smaller influencers can foster real connections that elevate brand awareness. Alisha's journey is a testament to the potential of micro-influencers to revolutionize industries beyond hospitality, extending to sectors like beauty.

Alisha also opens up about her personal journey of growth, recounting her move to New York City and how stepping out of her comfort zone led to profound professional success. Her disciplined routine, inspired by the 75 Hard Challenge, highlights the benefits of consistency and structured habits in achieving one's goals. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical insights, inviting listeners to embrace authenticity, cultivate meaningful relationships, and embark on their own path of growth and success.

ABOUT ALISHA

Alisha Chranya is the Founder and CEO of Society Unlocked, a marketing agency focused on helping hospitality brands connect with audiences through micro-influencer campaigns. With a strong background in marketing, Alisha has built Society Unlocked around the idea of using authentic voices to elevate brand visibility.

Starting her marketing career while studying at American University’s Kogod School of Business, Alisha gained experience across various roles that shaped her approach to brand building. After moving to New York City, she launched Society Unlocked at 23, establishing herself as a leader in the industry with a fresh approach to brand influence and customer engagement.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Society Unlocked’s Website
• Follow Society Unlocked on Instagram
• Find Society Unlocked on TikTok
• Connect with Alisha on LinkedIn

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Ever wondered how artificial intelligence could shape the future of security? Join us for an insightful episode with Aman Ibrahim, the innovative co-founder of DeepTrust, as we unravel the pressing challenges and incredible potential AI brings to the world of cybersecurity. Aman, inspired by his Eritrean roots and his family's dedication to community and technology, shares his mission to safeguard human authenticity against modern threats like voice phishing, deep fakes, and social engineering. With a rich background in machine learning and experience in both healthcare and tech startups, Aman's journey is both inspiring and informative.

Our conversation ventures deep into the risks of misinformation and the devastating impact of AI-generated scams. As we explore the ease with which voices and likenesses can be manipulated, we highlight the real-world consequences that have already cost Americans billions. Aman's personal stories reveal the urgency of these issues, underscoring how even the most cautious individuals can fall prey to these high-tech scams. The discussion extends to the misuse of deepfake technology in marketing, prompting a reflection on the challenges consumers face in distinguishing real endorsements from fabricated ones.

We also tackle the critical issue of cybersecurity in corporate communication, with platforms like Zoom becoming hotbeds for sophisticated cybercriminal activities. Aman illustrates how AI-driven attacks are evolving, emphasizing the need for proactive defense measures. Discover the innovative concept of co-pilot agents, designed to empower employees in navigating risky situations by providing real-time guidance and ensuring sensitive information is handled with care. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation with Aman Ibrahim, as we navigate the intricate landscape of AI security together.

ABOUT AMAN

Aman Ibrahim is a co-founder at DeepTrust, where he focuses on leveraging AI to help security teams defend against voice phishing, deepfakes, and social engineering attacks across voice and video communication channels. Prior to DeepTrust, Aman worked as an ML engineer at Cruise, where he scaled model and data distribution systems, and he also built models in healthcare research labs to address challenges in nutrition, palliative care, and disease detection. His work at DeepTrust is driven by the mission to protect human authenticity in an age of rapidly advancing AI technology.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit DeepTrust’s Website
• Have a Conversation with TerifAI’s Bot!
• Connect with Aman on LinkedIn

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What does it take to transform an ordinary brand into a timeless legacy? Our latest episode welcomes the creative genius Keira Krenek, founder of the bespoke branding agency Elementsist, who shares her inspiring journey from fine arts to becoming a branding strategist. As Keira draws from her rich background in art and marketing, we unravel her secrets to building enduring brand identities that go beyond logos and colors to foster trust and loyalty. Get ready to be inspired as we explore how her course, Brand Alchemy Mastery, is making strategic branding accessible to businesses of all sizes, ensuring they leave a lasting impression.

Throughout our conversation, we dissect the intricate art of crafting brand identities that stand the test of time, using companies like Apple as a benchmark for success. Keira introduces the concept of brand revitalization, explaining why evolving your brand elements is crucial to stay relevant and aligned with your core values. For small to midsize businesses, she emphasizes the importance of annual brand check-ins to maintain consistency while adapting to change, preventing the need for drastic overhauls. This dialogue holds practical insights for anyone looking to refresh their brand without losing its essence.

We also explore the interplay between personal and business branding, highlighting the significance of authenticity and strategic differentiation. Listen in as Keira offers actionable advice on aligning visuals with messaging to create a cohesive brand strategy that resonates with diverse audiences. Furthermore, we delve into the innovative use of AI in developing customized brand strategies, offering scalable solutions tailored to each business's unique needs. From understanding your brand's essence to engaging your audience effectively, this episode is a treasure trove of insights for entrepreneurs eager to build impactful, enduring legacies.

ABOUT KEIRA

Keira Krenek is the founder of Elementsist, a bespoke branding agency that takes the existing elements of your brand and through a process of transformation creates brands that have the potential to become legacies.

Her background is in fine arts, with a focus on glasswork but the starving artist route was not for her so she went back to school for marketing and branding at 27 where the professors discussed "putting in your time at an agency for a few years working 80 hours a week until you were ready to settle down and have get married." She was already at that point so she figured she would skip that step and venture into starting her own agency. Years later, here they are still going strong.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Elementsist’s Website
• Sign Up to the Brand Alchemy Masterclass
• Follow Elementsist on Instagram
• Find Elementsist on Facebook
• Follow Elementsist on LinkedIn
• Connect with Keira on LinkedIn

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Unlock the secrets of cybersecurity innovation with Ajay Joshi, co-founder and CEO of CipherSonic Labs, and a thought leader in the intersection of academia and entrepreneurship. Ajay's journey from Boston University professor to startup visionary is nothing short of extraordinary. Influenced by personal experiences with identity theft, he and his co-founder Rashmi are revolutionizing secure data sharing through groundbreaking work in homomorphic encryption.

Explore the cutting-edge advancements that are reshaping the landscape of data security. Ajay explains the transformative potential of homomorphic encryption, a technology that allows computations on encrypted data without decryption. We delve into how this innovation addresses growing consumer demands for data protection and how enterprises are stepping up with robust security measures. Discover the pivotal role of FPGAs in making this technology practical, a fascinating blend of algorithmic, hardware, and software ingenuity.

Hear Ajay's visionary outlook for CipherSonic Labs and the cybersecurity industry's future. Drawing compelling analogies, he discusses the dynamic growth paths of tech companies and the essential need for nurturing talent in this evolving field. Ajay shares invaluable insights from his dual roles in academia and business, emphasizing the importance of passion, problem-solving, and a strong team to navigate the challenges ahead. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about cybersecurity, entrepreneurship, and innovation.

ABOUT AJAY

Ajay Joshi is the co-founder and CEO of CipherSonic Labs, a startup offering a game-changing cloud-based cybersecurity solution designed for enterprises to securely share and collaboratively process data with other enterprises. In his other life, he is a Professor in the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department at Boston University. Before joining BU faculty, he was at MIT and before that at Georgia Tech. He has had industry stints at Google, Intel and Lightmatter.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit CipherSonic Lab’s Website
• Connect with Ajay on LinkedIn

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Unlock the hidden potential of your team with insights from Asha Sarode, founder of Uniquity Consulting. Asha joins us to share her transformative journey from feeling unappreciated in her traditional nine-to-five roles to pioneering a consulting firm that prioritizes understanding individual identities within the workplace. Learn how her experiences managing teams and noticing a persistent disconnect between managers and employees propelled her to conduct extensive research, laying the groundwork for Uniquity Consulting’s mission to recognize and value the unique qualities each employee brings to the table.

Discover actionable strategies to unlock identity and foster a thriving business environment. Asha demystifies the concept of identity, extending beyond obvious markers like gender and race to encompass socioeconomic status, job choices, and personal experiences. This episode is packed with practical advice on how to ask open-ended questions, listen with the intent to understand, and maintain an ongoing curiosity to avoid assumptions. These techniques can help business owners and managers build stronger relationships, enhance employee engagement, and create a space where innovation flourishes.

Asha also delves into the entrepreneurial mindset, sharing her expertise as an attorney and trained mediator. She highlights the importance of understanding underlying needs and interests for effective mediation and employee engagement. Tune in for her tips on short-term planning, adaptability, and the value of genuine customer interaction. Asha’s insights provide a valuable guide for entrepreneurs and managers alike, emphasizing the necessity of believing deeply in one’s vision and staying committed to overcoming obstacles. Don’t miss this episode if you’re looking to maximize employee potential and drive business success.

ABOUT ASHA

Asha Sarode is the Founder of Uniquity Consulting, which helps managers maximize employee potential by understanding the unique qualities, needs and interests each employee brings to the table. In the past 20 years Asha has worked as an attorney, in administration, product management, and as an entrepreneur. She is also a trained mediator.

Asha has experience working in various industries including healthcare, law, and tech. She’s had the opportunity to manage and build teams from scratch and has worked directly with the C-Suite to develop strategy, culture and team processes. As part of the development of Uniquity’s program she has spent 2 years conducting academic research and 30 personal interviews to ensure Uniquity’s workshop is supported by valuable and up-to-date data and research.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Uniquity Consulting’s Website
• Follow Uniquity Consulting on Instagram
• Connect with Asha on LinkedIn

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What if building your business connections was as crucial as creating your product? Join us for a compelling conversation with Christian Durfee, the visionary co-founder and CEO of InvestLink Social. Christian's entrepreneurial journey—from sewing bow ties in high school to founding a thriving health and wellness distribution company—provides a rich backdrop for our exploration into the dynamic world of entrepreneurship and investor relationships. He emphasizes the value of resilience and resourcefulness, demonstrating that the true magic happens when you actively engage with the business world rather than merely observe it.

Navigating the challenging waters of pre-seed fundraising? This episode is your guide to understanding the essence of raising capital through authentic relationships. We explore the edge seasoned entrepreneurs have, thanks to their established networks, and how first-time founders can level the playing field by building genuine trust with potential investors. Christian takes us through the nuances of "smart money" versus "dumb money," advising on aligning your funding strategy with your business goals while defining an ideal investor profile. Authentic connections, rather than hurried pitches, are highlighted as the cornerstone of successful early-stage fundraising.

Patience and networking emerge as the unsung heroes of the entrepreneurial journey. Much like dating, rushing connections can be detrimental, and real relationships need time to mature. We discuss the importance of being proactive in controllable areas while practicing patience with factors beyond your control, like investor decisions. This episode reminds us of the timeless wisdom in starting to build networks today. Wrapping up, Christian offers his best advice for entrepreneurs at every stage, providing listeners with actionable insights and inspiration to foster their own entrepreneurial dreams.

ABOUT CHRISTIAN

Christian Durfee is the Co-Founder and CEO of InvestLink Social, a social networking platform that assists founders and investors with networking and deal flow. Christian has been an entrepreneur throughout most of his life. He got his start in high school by hand sewing and selling bow ties, which he scaled production and focused on a B2B approach. During college at the University of Minnesota where he finished with a bachelor of science in marketing and management focus, Christian was able to start up a health and wellness distribution company, and have a successful exit. Christian brings a strong background in leadership, marketing, and sales which can help InvestLink Social grow and scale into a company that will help entrepreneurs and investors worldwide.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit InvestLink Social’s Website
• Connect with Christian on LinkedIn

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Discover the transformative power of holistic health with our guest Yolanda Trevino, a certified holistic health practitioner and life coach. Yolanda shares her extraordinary journey from personal trauma to creating the Evolutionary Body System, a program designed to foster personal growth and healing. This episode promises invaluable insights into how holistic wellness encompasses much more than just diet and exercise; it extends into mental health, mindset, and building resilience. Yolanda's story serves as an inspiring reminder that overcoming past adversities can lead to a fulfilling and empowered life.

Embark on an exploration of personal growth and the profound impact of holistic practices. Yolanda reveals the significance of tuning into one's personal center and breaking free from societal conformity and personal relationships that can hinder progress. Learn how natural modalities and techniques can help you navigate life's challenges, build resilience, and see setbacks not as failures, but as opportunities for growth. We discuss the pivotal moments that can redefine your journey and highlight the power of embracing middle age with an eye toward unfinished dreams and new beginnings.

Take a closer look at nurturing various pillars of life such as wellness, nutrition, and mindfulness, and how they interconnect to enhance overall well-being. Yolanda offers her expertise on identifying areas for self-improvement and overcoming burnout. We also explore the concept of vibrational frequency and its influence on mindset and energy levels, unlocking creativity and ambition. Yolanda's personal experiences, including her book "The Evolutionary Plate: From Taste to Transformation," provide practical guidance to navigate personal and entrepreneurial growth. Whether you're seeking personal development or professional success, Yolanda's journey and expertise offer a wealth of inspiration and actionable insights.

ABOUT YOLANDA

Yolanda Trevino is a certified Holistic Health Practitioner, Life Coach, and the founder of Evolutionary Body System. Drawing from her journey of overcoming trauma and rebuilding her life, Yolanda has created transformative programs and resources that inspire meaningful change. In addition to her work in holistic wellness, she is a multi-business owner, including Microhair Aesthetics and iLushess Lashes. She is the author of The Evolutionary Plate: From Taste to Transformation and other works, including Lessons Learned at 40 and Cultivating Mindfulness, Self-Awareness, and Growth. Through her writing and courses, Yolanda empowers individuals to reconnect with their bodies and minds, achieving sustainable well-being.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Evolutionary Body System’s Website
• Use the Code VIP350 to Get a Special Discount on the Holistic Growth Reset Program
• Connect with Yolanda on LinkedIn

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Ever wondered how a childhood passion can evolve into a groundbreaking career? Join us as we welcome Kyle Kostesich, the visionary executive creative director and founder of Gray Giant. Kyle shares his remarkable journey from sketching as a kid to becoming a leading figure in the design and branding world. Transitioning from studying architecture to mastering graphic design, climbing the corporate ladder, and ultimately founding Gray Giant, Kyle's story is packed with insights on blending art with strategy to create impactful branding solutions.

Feeling like your brand identity might need a refresh? Kyle offers invaluable advice on how to critically evaluate and update your brand to stay relevant in today’s fast-paced market. Learn about the significance of pushing boundaries while staying true to your core identity, particularly in conservative industries like healthcare and finance. We discuss the pitfalls of being overly polarizing and the benefits of clear differentiation and genuine branding that truly resonates with your audience. This episode is a goldmine for businesses looking to build a professional, effective brand that stands out.

Kyle also takes us behind the scenes of Gray Giant, revealing the innovative, client-centric model that sets his agency apart from traditional ones. Discover the benefits of personalized service and deep engagement with fewer clients, stripping away the bloat of excessive meetings and overhead. Kyle's commitment to work-life balance and seeking fulfillment beyond monetary success is both inspiring and practical. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation filled with wisdom, actionable tips, and a touch of inspiration for entrepreneurs and aspiring entrepreneurs alike. Tune in to elevate your brand and your life.

ABOUT KYLE

Kyle Kostesich is an Executive Creative Director with deep design and branding roots. He's spent the last 20 years navigating the complexities of the creative space to help B2B and B2C companies thrive across numerous sectors. And his efforts have netted him over 25 industry awards.

Kyle has extensive experience communicating with the investment community for both public and emerging companies, as he spent the last 7 years leading the Branding and Creative team at ICR. Kyle has recently broken off from ICR and started his own creative and branding consultancy called GRAY GIANT.

LINKS & RESOURCES

• Visit Gray Giant’s Website
• Visit Kyle’s Website
• Visit Design Mammoth’s Website
• Connect with Kyle on LinkedIn