Recent Updates
1544: Amateur Moms Happily Ever After Motherhood Empty Nest Life and Grandkids with Renee Thomas Hawkley
Raising eight kids across six states and two countries gave Renee Thomas Hawkley a front-row seat to the beautiful chaos of family life. Now a grandmother and widow at 79, she’s still learning new lessons in love, loss, and letting her adult children “mother” her back. Author of “Once Upon an Amateur Mom” and the forthcoming “Amateur Moms Happily Ever After,” Renee shares honest, humorous stories that reassure overwhelmed moms that joy is still hiding in the mess. From heart‑shaped Valentine’s pizzas and allergy‑friendly family dinners to long‑distance group texts and quick check‑ins, Renee shows how simple acts of inclusion and thoughtfulness keep families close even when they’re spread across multiple states and seasons of life.
In this conversation, Renee and Robert explore the emotional shifts of aging and empty nesting, the reality that every child needs different rules, and the hard truth that you can’t fix everything but you can always offer love and kindness. Renee reflects on widowhood and the enduring influence of her late husband Dan, and closes by reading her moving piece “A Mother’s Creed,” a poetic reminder that motherhood links humanity’s past to its future. Whether you’re a mom in the trenches, an empty nester, or an adult child wondering how to better honor your own mother, you’ll come away with simple, practical reminders to invite, include, and reach out while there’s still time.
Quotes:
“You can’t fix everything for your children but you can always offer your love, your kindness, and the joy of having them close.”
“Every child is raised in the same home, but no two children are the same and sometimes love means giving them different rules.”
“At 79, I’ve learned that letting my children ‘mother’ me is not weakness; it’s the beautiful proof that family love has come full circle.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 30:44 — 42.2MB) | Embed
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1543: The Journey First Framework for Account-Based B2B Growth with Brent Keltner
From Stanford and the RAND Corporation to leading revenue teams in the commercial world, Brent Keltner, PhD, has spent his career decoding how complex B2B deals are actually closed. As founder and president of Winalytics, Brent helps mid-market and enterprise teams move beyond product pitching to true account-based growth. He’s the author of “The Revenue Acceleration Playbook” and the forthcoming “Journey First Marketing,” a book that challenges one of B2B’s biggest bad habits: obsessing over individual personas when companies actually buy in committees. In this episode, Brent reveals why traditional contact-focused marketing leaves so much revenue on the table and how to flip your entire go-to-market motion around a simple idea: accounts buy, personas don’t. You’ll hear how to design websites that speak to every member of the buying committee, why customer stories should be your #1 content asset (not #5), and how to connect product value, business value, and corporate value so that users, budget owners, and risk-averse stakeholders all see themselves in your message.
Brent also breaks down a practical roadmap for teams stuck in contact scoring and lead chaos. He explains how to use tools like ChatGPT on top of your CRM to spot real buying committees (not just random clickers or competitors snooping), how to build three aligned content streams for your core buyer types, and how to reuse a single customer story across your entire funnel, website, social, sales decks, and beyond. Whether you’re a CMO, CRO, founder, or product marketer, you’ll come away with a clearer picture of what true account-based enablement looks like in the real world and how a few smart changes can unlock faster, more predictable growth.
Quotes:
"Accounts buy. Personas don’t, and every part of your marketing should reflect that reality.”
“If your customers aren’t saying it consistently, it isn’t true, no matter how often your CEO repeats it.”
“Customer stories are the only asset that turn ‘me selling to you’ into ‘we solving a problem together.’”
Resources:
- Winalytics LLC
- Brent Keltner on LinkedIn
- The Revenue Acceleration Playbook: Creating an Authentic Buyer Journey Across Sales, Marketing, and Customer Success on Amazon
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 27:45 — 38.1MB) | Embed
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1542: Profit Acceleration & Predictable Profit for Service-Based Entrepreneurs with Cardinal Business Advisor with Jane Parmel
Service-based entrepreneurs often launch a business to do what they love, only to find themselves overwhelmed by tasks, burned out, and tied to operations they never planned for. In this episode, profit acceleration strategist Jane Parmel joins Robert Plank to explain why the real job of a business owner isn’t “doing the work” but leading the business. Drawing from her journey from teacher to children’s party center owner to coach, Jane unpacks how over-involvement, emotional attachment, and fear of delegation quietly destroy profit, stall growth, and keep owners stuck in the business instead of working on it.
Jane explains why mindset is the first system you must fix, from the belief that “no one can do it as well as me” to the dangerous comfort of “we’ve always done it this way.” You’ll hear how to step into the role of observer instead of constant doer, empower employees to take ownership, and design operations that support clarity, confidence, and cash flow. If you’re overwhelmed, short on time, and tired of your business depending on your every move, this conversation will show you how to embrace change, build structure, and finally create a business that serves your life, not the other way around.
Quotes:
“The moment you stop doing everything yourself and start leading your business, you stop surviving and start growing.”
“If you’re the most expensive person in the company, you can’t afford to be doing the cheapest tasks.”
“Your business will only grow to the level you’re willing to delegate, document, and let other people win with you.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 23:13 — 31.9MB) | Embed
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1541: LinkedIn Sales Outreach & Lead Generation Using Skoop AI Video Messages with Troy Hipolito
Tired of random, low-quality LinkedIn calls or no calls at all? In this episode, Troy Hipolito (a.k.a. the “Not So Boring LinkedIn Guy” and former Swiss-Filipino gamification designer) breaks down how he helps B2B and service-based businesses turn LinkedIn into a consistent pipeline of vetted, high-value meetings. After agency work with Fortune 500 brands dried up, Troy reinvented his business using LinkedIn, combining “slow dating” relationship-building with tight systems and clear daily workflows. The result: a predictable process that leverages videos, content, events, and smart follow-up instead of spammy cold pitches and random hustle.
Troy reveals the exact framework behind Skoop, his Chrome extension and dashboard, which boosts first-message-to-booked-meeting conversions from ~3% to 21%, a 6x improvement, using short, raw, hyper-personalized videos embedded directly in LinkedIn DMs. You’ll learn how to fix a “jacked up” profile that repels your ideal clients, why you only really make money on LinkedIn in two places (content and DMs), how to structure free/low-ticket/high-ticket offers that feed each other, and how to use VAs, SOPs, and repeatable systems so you only spend 30 minutes a day recording videos while your backend runs like a machine. If you want more (and better) meetings without turning LinkedIn into a full-time job, this conversation gives you the blueprint.
Quotes:
“There’s no single silver bullet. The core is providing value, but you have to distribute that value across multiple channels.”
“LinkedIn is not a Facebook marketplace. It’s a networking domain. It’s about building real relationships, not just ‘buy my stuff.’”
“We took that first LinkedIn message from about a 3% conversion to 21%, not to a reply, but to a vetted booked meeting.”
“People don’t read; they scan. Anything more than three lines is too much. That’s why the message has to be context, content, context.”
“Slow down and ‘slow date’ your clients. The sooner you realize you’re not a fit, the sooner you can move on with clarity.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 36:09 — 33.1MB) | Embed
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1540: Run Better Zoom Meetings: POPRA Planning, Handling HIPPOs, and High-Stakes Virtual Facilitation with Evan Unger
Evan Unger is a recognized expert in organizational change, leadership development, and collaborative facilitation. With decades of experience consulting for major enterprises, including large pharmaceutical companies and insurance organizations, Evan specializes in transforming workplace culture by empowering change agents at every level. His approach moves beyond traditional training, focusing on deep, practice-based skill transfer to foster genuine collaboration, reduce bureaucracy, and maximize meeting effectiveness.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Evan Unger joins Robert Plank to discuss the art (and science) of running effective, high-stakes meetings. Evan reveals why most meetings are a microcosm of organizational dysfunction and how targeting meeting culture can boost company-wide productivity. Discover the “five fundamentals” for collaborative leadership, learn how to handle challenging personalities (including the “HiPPO” dynamic), and hear why real transformation starts with top-down engagement and extensive practice, not just passive training videos. Tune in for actionable strategies to reclaim time, drive better decisions, and create a culture of buy-in from the very first meeting.
Quotes:
“The fastest way to transform your company’s culture is to change the way you lead meetings because every meeting is a window into your organization’s soul.”
“Real leadership isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about creating space for every voice and guiding your team to believe, ‘We did this ourselves.’”
“You can’t shift a culture with information alone. Transformation happens when leaders show up, practice together, and model the behaviors they want to see.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 30:36 — 42.0MB) | Embed
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1539: AI, PR, and Media Visibility for Founders with Gloria Chou
Gloria Chou is an award-winning small business PR expert recognized for revolutionizing media visibility for overlooked founders, especially women and minority entrepreneurs. As the creator of the “CPR” pitching method and a fierce advocate for leveling the PR playing field, Gloria leverages free AI tools to help brands break through traditional barriers without a budget or gatekeepers. She’s on a mission to help product-based businesses get featured in mainstream media, build credible backlinks, and earn trust in the age of AI-driven search.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Gloria Chou joins Robert Plank to explore the dramatic shift from traditional SEO to AI-powered recommendations for brands. Gloria reveals why being seen by large language models (like ChatGPT and Perplexity) is now more important than ever and shares actionable steps for founders to get featured in podcasts, editorial articles, and gift guides. Tune in to learn about leveraging real-time AI tools for competitive research, media pitch creation, and maximizing content repurposing, plus the “one window of opportunity” founders cannot afford to miss.
Quotes:
“If you’re not being recommended by AI, if ChatGPT, Perplexity, or Gemini aren’t mentioning you, then to today’s shoppers, you’re invisible. Media coverage is now your strongest trust signal.”
“Right now is a once-in-a-generation window for founders; you don’t need a massive budget or thousands of followers. Small brands finally have the chance to compete with giants, if you act before the algorithms choose their favorites.”
“AI is rewriting the rules of marketing. It’s not about stuffing websites with keywords but about building credible backlinks and getting your story told. Thoughtful pitches and real coverage are what move you forward.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 24:15 — 33.3MB) | Embed
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1538: B2B Marketing Alignment, Focus, and Navigating Complexity with Kathy Floam Greenspan
Kathy Floam Greenspan is a veteran B2B marketing expert with over 25 years of experience helping organizations align marketing with real business outcomes. As president of POM Agency, she is passionate about cutting through the noise in fast-moving industries like tech, cybersecurity, and government contracting. Kathy specializes in helping lean marketing teams deliver impactful results despite resource constraints and is a strong advocate of clarity, focus, and practical use of AI to drive growth.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Kathy Floam Greenspan joins Robert Plank to discuss the growing pressures on marketing teams, rising expectations, limited capacity, and constant change. Based on a survey of over 100 B2B marketers, Kathy reveals why misalignment, resource gaps, and unclear goals hinder performance and shares four strategic shifts to help teams reclaim focus and momentum in 2026. Learn how to partner smarter, clean up your data ecosystem, and use AI as a collaborator, not a crutch. Kathy offers actionable advice for marketers striving to stay the course, protect priorities, and create lasting impact in chaotic times.
Quotes:
“If everything is a priority, nothing is. Our role as marketers is to protect focus and stay the course, especially these days.”
“Marketers are being asked to deliver more impact without more capacity, forcing tough trade-offs and constant prioritization.”
“AI is incredibly powerful, but marketing is still very human work. Use AI as a collaborator, not a crutch to walk before you run.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 29:50 — 41.0MB) | Embed
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1537: AI SEO for SaaS: Unlocking AI Search, Revenue, and Market Shifts with Apoorv Sharma
Apoorv Sharma is an AI SEO strategist, co-founder of Derivate X, and a leader in AI-first marketing for SaaS and tech companies. Based in Bangalore, India, Apoorv helps brands navigate the rapid shift from traditional search engines to LLMs and AI platforms like ChatGPT and Gemini. By optimizing content for AI visibility instead of just Google rankings, he empowers organizations to appear where modern buyers make decisions. Known for his hands-on, research-driven process, Apoorv guides clients through the evolving world of AI search and digital discovery, helping them future-proof their presence, drive revenue, and adapt to the pace of technological change.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Apoorv joins Robert Plank to reveal the new playbook for AI SEO. He explains how business owners can adapt to shifting search patterns, why top-of-funnel content is fading, and the steps needed to win in AI-driven rankings. Discover the real challenges behind AI SEO: from accidental brand confusion and overcoming search system quirks to navigating a price-sensitive market and justifying the investment. Apoorv shares actionable strategies for targeting long-tail queries, associating SEO efforts with revenue, and continuously adjusting content and positioning to stay ahead as AI reshapes how buyers find and trust solutions online.
Quotes:
“Search behavior is shifting so fast, even people who don’t know English are using ChatGPT more than Google.”
“SEO without clarity is just wasted money.”
“The top of the funnel is almost dead. Focus on the middle and bottom; those are your lowest-hanging fruits.”
“AI SEO isn’t just about rankings; it’s about training the librarian so your content gets recommended to the right buyers.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:33 — 36.5MB) | Embed
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1536: Energizing Leadership, Accountability, and Team Potential with Pamela Potts
Pamela Potts is a leadership development expert, coach, and author dedicated to transforming how leaders energize themselves and their teams. Drawing on years of experience as an entrepreneur, consultant, and facilitator, Pamela helps business owners and professionals integrate coaching skills into leadership, enhance energy management, and unlock hidden potential in themselves and others.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Pamela Potts joins Robert Plank to explore the power of the Leader Coach Approach. She reveals how understanding your personal energy, practicing self-awareness, and building coaching skills can revolutionize leadership outcomes, driving both personal and business growth. Pamela discusses why so many leaders struggle with accountability and implementation, shares her OMA coaching method, and demonstrates how to foster joy and sustainability in professional life. Listeners will discover how to identify and leverage individual strengths, why curiosity is vital for progress, and how adopting a coaching mindset can transform teams and create meaningful results.
Quotes:
"You can't be curious and judgmental at the same time."
"Look for what energizes you, and it's okay to focus on what brings you joy."
"As leaders, our job is to get results through others, not just ourselves."
“When you shift from solving to asking questions, you become a leader who coaches.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 27:27 — 37.7MB) | Embed
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1535: Mindset, Mentorship & Health: From Corporate Finance to Natural Wellness with Victor Dedaj
Victor Dedaj is an entrepreneur, naturopathic expert, and co-author of "Success Breakthroughs" (with Jack Canfield). After two decades in corporate finance, Victor pivoted to health, wellness, and mindset coaching, challenging mainstream misconceptions about diet, cholesterol, and sleep. He is passionate about helping others reclaim health, break limiting beliefs, and create fulfillment in life and business. Drawing from personal experience and mentorship from leaders like Jack Canfield, Victor empowers others to take responsibility for their outcomes, cultivate success mindsets, and seek trustworthy guidance on the journey to well-being and entrepreneurship.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Victor Dedaj joins Robert Plank to break down persistent health myths, the critical role of sleep for entrepreneurs, and how mindset and mentorship accelerate business and wellness growth. Victor shares actionable advice on taking control of your health, the importance of questioning medical “truths,” and why adopting a positive, solution-focused mindset can transform every area of your life.
Quotes:
“Success leaves clues. Don’t try to reinvent the wheel; learn from those who came before you.”
“Take 100% responsibility for your life. You may not control every event, but you control your response and the outcome.”
"Too often, we surrender the responsibility for our health; knowledge and action are the real power."
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:40 — 36.6MB) | Embed
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1534: Project Blue World: Global Happiness, Sustainable Energy, and Social Impact with Lori Payne
Lori Payne is a visionary leader, consultant, and founder of Project Blue World. Driven by the Blue Zone theory of longevity and happiness, she spearheads global initiatives from Winnipeg to foster quality of life, sustainable energy, and community development. Through international collaboration, Project Blue World empowers citizens and leaders alike to create positive, lasting change locally and worldwide.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Lori Payne discusses Project Blue World's mission, the science and inspiration behind Blue Zones, and strategies for linking happiness, longevity, and sustainability. Lori shares insights from energy transformation projects in Manitoba and beyond, including innovative uses of hydro and biofuels, global partnerships, and the critical need for clarity in information. She highlights community-driven initiatives, avenues for direct involvement, and how anyone can contribute to a healthier planet while achieving growth and development goals.
Quotes:
“Project Blue World is about changing the world, project by project, country by country, so every citizen can achieve happiness and quality of life.”
“We have the brains and technology, and the global commitment, to maintain our planet’s atmosphere and ensure future generations thrive.”
“There’s so much being done behind the scenes. When knowledge is shared, and collaboration happens, communities and leaders can create real impact.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 32:23 — 44.5MB) | Embed
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1532: 46-Rescue to Central: True Tales of Danger and Duty with Retired NYPD Luis A. Rivera
Luis A. Rivera is a retired NYPD officer, author, and storyteller who brings a raw, behind-the-scenes perspective to policing in New York City. From surviving the turbulent streets of the South Bronx to handling riots, 9/11, and internal challenges, Louis chronicles a real cop's journey through two gripping memoirs: The 52nd and 46-Rescue to Central. His firsthand account covers his start as a high school volunteer with the 46 Precinct Rescue Unit, his rise through the NYPD ranks during times of social change and unrest, and the relentless passion that drove him.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Luis Rivera joins Robert Plank to share powerful stories about coming of age in 1980s New York, the importance of passion and teamwork, and how volunteering laid the groundwork for a career in law enforcement. Luis discusses how internal obstacles can rival street dangers, reflects on evolving police culture and diversity, and delivers insights for those motivated by service. Explore what it truly means to follow your dream, whether facing riots, corruption, or the call to make a difference.
Quotes:
"Proudly we served; everyone who volunteered with the unit lived by those words."
"Follow your dream, your passion; become a cop and be the best cop you can be."
"You don’t let obstacles get under your skin. You push back, you persevere, you serve."
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 25:48 — 35.4MB) | Embed
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1533: Why Be Sick: Menopause, Nutrition, and Women’s Health with Sereda Fowlkes
Sereda Fowlkes is a holistic health practitioner, wellness educator, and passionate advocate for women’s health. With years of experience guiding women through the challenges of menopause and healthy aging, she empowers clients to understand their bodies, embrace proactive care, and make sustainable lifestyle changes. Her approach integrates holistic nutrition, alternative therapies, and a passion for prevention, helping people thrive at every life stage.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Sereda Fowlkes joins Robert Plank to shed light on menopause awareness, the impact of environmental changes on early symptoms, and the critical role of nutrient-rich foods in lifelong well-being. She discusses the privilege of youth, the risks of caffeine, and why listening to your body is key to prevention. The conversation explores the effectiveness of holistic solutions versus one-size-fits-all treatments, the importance of regular check-ups, staying vigilant for nutrient deficiencies, and why a supportive, informed approach can transform women’s health at any age.
Quotes:
"So if it's not in the soil, it's not in the vegetables, it's not in the fruits. So, you know, we're eating kind of like dead food."
"You cannot out supplement a bad diet. What you eat matters."
"Women always pay attention to your body. Something's different that you're not used to and you see the and notice the change. Pay attention."
"There’s no one pill that fits everybody. You have to know your body for yourself, especially women."
Resources:
- Sereda Fowlkes on LinkedIn
- Why Be Sick?: 25 Strategies and Tips on How to Take Control of Your Health and Live a Longer, More Vibrant Life (Amazon)
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:50 — 36.8MB) | Embed
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1530: From Hustle to Scalable Systems: KPIs, Fast Pivots, Digital Footprints, and Turning Expertise Into Recurring Revenue with Jason Criddle
Jason Criddle is the founder and managing partner of a multi-entity private investment and technology ecosystem, including Smarter Holdings, Dominate.AI, and Jason Criddle & Associates. Known for scaling businesses through strategic development and acquisition, and for a passionate approach to helping entrepreneurs, Jason leverages deep expertise in AI, automation, publishing, and behavioral coaching to drive results for both startups and established organizations.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Jason returns after more than a decade to share how his journey from personal health battles to overseeing billion-dollar companies has shaped his no-nonsense philosophy on business growth, digital transformation, and personal fulfillment. Together with Robert Plank, they discuss why most entrepreneurs struggle to scale, the importance of consistent reinvention, actionable strategies for making your business scalable, and how to build infrastructure that lasts. Jason breaks down the value of pivoting early, highlights the role of mentors, stresses the importance of clear customer experiences, and explains why celebrating wins, big or small, is essential along the sometimes-lonely road to legitimacy and authority.
Quotes:
“If your business isn’t producing customers or revenue, it’s not a business; it’s an expensive hobby.”
“You have to be willing to be bad before you can be great. Growth begins the moment you push past the fear of starting.”
“Showing up is a win. If you earned even one today, celebrate it especially with the people who matter most.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 46:20 — 63.6MB) | Embed
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1531: AI Marketing Breakthrough: Scale Teams and Drive Revenue with Mark Donnigan
Mark Donnigan is a B2B tech marketing strategist, startup growth expert, and leading advocate for intelligent adoption of AI in marketing. With a track record of helping technology companies overcome resource constraints and secure multimillion-dollar deals, Mark is known for building and accelerating nimble, effective teams. He specializes in leveraging AI for research, content creation, and productivity, empowering marketers to be T-shaped, deeply knowledgeable, and highly adaptive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Mark Donnigan joins Robert Plank to share how AI is enabling small marketing teams to punch above their weight, create high-quality content, and deeply understand their buyers. Mark elaborates on the transformative power of LLMs, the overlooked capabilities for market research, and the vital importance of combining AI with genuine market insight. Discover why embracing AI is crucial, how to update your processes for maximum growth, and what makes resilient teams thrive in tech's fast-changing environment.
Quotes:
“AI gives marketers a superpower; anyone can become T-shaped, expanding depth and range exactly where the moment demands.”
“What once looked like under-resourced teams now looks like untapped advantage. With AI, small teams can break through big limitations.”
“Don’t chase every new AI train. Spend that time learning your market, show up, listen deeply, and understand what your audience actually needs.”
Resources:
- Mark Donnigan on LinkedIn
- GrowthStage Marketing (official site)
- GrowthStage Marketing (Blog)
- Mark Donnigan on YouTube
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:20 — 36.2MB) | Embed
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1529: Stand Out in Media and Film: Create Influence and Drive Change Through Your Story with Heather Atherton
Heather Atherton is a communications strategist, PR consultant, and media outreach specialist with 25+ years of experience elevating brands and causes. Known for her work with companies like IMAX, GoFundMe, and Disney on Ice, Heather is also a passionate advocate for uncovering the truth behind the Vietnam War's Baron 52 case, a mission inspired by her father’s service. Through custom, outside-the-box marketing, storytelling, and her deep belief in the power of dreams, Heather helps businesses, filmmakers, and nonprofits package their message for maximum impact. Her expertise spans film promotion, guerrilla marketing, independent filmmaking, and supporting small business growth, always focused on connecting human stories to wider audiences.
On this episode of Marketer of the Day, Heather joins Robert Plank to share her journey from agency work to mission-driven advocacy, the importance of visual/guerrilla marketing, and the ongoing campaign for truth around the Baron 52 story. Heather discusses building custom pitches, the challenges indie filmmakers face, and why early PR is key. Discover lessons on amplifying meaningful stories, DIY marketing foundations for creators, and the relentless power of believing in your ideals.
Quotes:
“The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams and are bold enough to bring them to life.”
“If you can see your story visually, you can market it anywhere. Visual thinking turns ideas into impact.”
“I’m not a cookie-cutter. I create outside the box because that’s where originality, opportunity, and growth live.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 31:00 — 42.6MB) | Embed
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1528: Harmonic SEO Formula: Make Your Content into Authority and AI-Ready Visibility with Joseph Kahn
Joseph S. Kahn is an acclaimed digital marketing expert, AI and SEO strategist, and founder of Hum Jam. Celebrated for inventing the harmonic SEO formula, Joseph draws on a unique background combining formal music training (Berklee College of Music) with decades of digital entrepreneurship, including consulting for industry leaders like Microsoft and John Maxwell. His approaches help businesses and agencies synchronize their online presence, climb search rankings, and thrive amidst rapid technological change. With 3500+ Udemy students and a track record of agency training, Joseph empowers clients to harmonize content, citations, and signals for enduring relevance.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, host Robert Plank talks with Joseph S. Kahn about transforming chaotic digital environments into marketing harmony. He shares how musical principles inspired his harmonic blueprint in SEO and now inform his revolutionary AI methods. The discussion dives deep into why industry-specific directories and authoritative citations matter far more than old-school backlink tactics, the importance of Google’s E-E-A-T algorithm, and why email-driven engagement signals help content get indexed and trusted. Joseph debunks SEO myths, details nitty-gritty steps for dominating AI search results (like ChatGPT and Perplexity), and offers take-action advice for agencies and individuals who want sustainable growth.
Quotes:
“SEO is like music; when your content, citations, and signals harmonize, both AI and audiences start paying attention.”
“Visibility isn’t built on volume. It’s built on the right citations and a clear, authoritative presence in your niche.”
“In a post-E-E-A-T world, authority, trust, and real experience aren’t optional; they’re the price of being found.”
Resources:
- Joseph S. Kahn on Facebook
- Joseph S. Kahn on LinkedIn
- Boost Your Online Visibility with HumJAM—Preferred Choice of Top SEO Agencies
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 29:58 — 41.2MB) | Embed
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1527: Author Success Secrets: Publish and Promote Your Book Effectively with Publishing Strategist Pharice Brown
Pharice Brown is a literary activist, book publisher, and founder of Pain 2 Prosperity Publishing, a platform dedicated to amplifying powerful Black and Brown voices too often overlooked in mainstream publishing. Leveraging her background in corporate strategy and her passion for professional and personal storytelling, Pharice has created a company focused on legacy, impact, and authentic representation. She helps future authors overcome doubt, discover their stories, and navigate the publishing process to create works that resonate and inspire.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Robert Plank sits down with Pharice Brown to discuss the journey from corporate boardrooms to literary entrepreneurship. Pharice shares how everyone has a story worth telling, why personal experiences and professional expertise both deserve an audience, and the importance of visibility and marketing in the publishing journey. They dig deep into the biggest challenges authors face, especially getting started, being open to feedback, and embracing creativity and fun through marketing. You’ll hear about overcoming imposter syndrome, strategies for finishing and launching a book, the differences between self-publishing and working with a publisher, and real-world success stories of new authors. Pharice offers practical advice, motivational support, and free 15-minute strategy calls to help aspiring writers take the first step.
Quotes:
“Everyone has a book inside them. The real question is how you choose to spend it and whether you’ll let it be read.”
“Your core idea doesn’t need to change, but your information might. Growth comes from being open enough to refine the message so it’s truly worth reading.”
“Write the book. Show up consistently. Have fun. Be creative and let the world decide its value.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 1:25 — 2.0MB) | Embed
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1526: AI & SEO Mastery: Boost Visibility and B2B Growth with Melih Oztalay
Melih Oztalay is the CEO of Smart Finds Marketing, an accomplished digital agency leader with over 38 years of experience in the marketing industry. Renowned for blending traditional and digital strategies, Melih has successfully guided clients through economic downturns, market disruptions, and the accelerating pace of technological change. As the architect of the "Four A's" philosophy (Anticipate, Accept, Adapt, Adopt), he empowers businesses to stay competitive and proactive in the age of AI, navigating uncertainty with logic and resilience.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Melih Oztalay sits down with Robert Plank to discuss surviving and thriving through seismic industry changes, such as the 2009 financial crisis and the COVID pandemic. Melih shares how the art of “pivoting” underpins long-term success and how digital transformation is more than following trends; it’s about measurable, strategic action. He details the evolution from SEO to AEO (Answer Engine Optimization) and GEO (Generative Engine Optimization), why businesses must transition from pursuing rankings to being referenced by AI, and how schema/JSON scripts can elevate AI's visibility. Listeners will gain actionable strategies for embracing change, breaking through emotional resistance, and leveraging both human teams and AI to solve core business challenges.
Quotes:
“Marketing isn’t about promotion; it’s a discipline of problem-solving. The brands that win are the ones that solve real problems faster and better.”
“When change is inevitable, emotion is optional. Anticipate it, accept it, adapt fast, and adopt smarter, that’s how you stay ahead.”
“In an AI-driven world, rankings matter less than relevance. The future belongs to those who are referenced, not just found.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 33:07 — 45.5MB) | Embed
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1525: Celanese Odyssey: Lessons from a Lifetime in Engineering, Leadership, and Global Adventure with Author Edward H. Munoz
Edward H. Muñoz rose from humble beginnings as a first-generation Mexican American in a South Texas border town to build a 33-year career at Celanese, where he played a key role in transforming the company into a global leader in engineering materials. After earning a chemistry degree from the University of Texas at Austin, he joined Celanese during its pivot from fibers to high-value engineering resins and helped establish its polyacetal product as a serious competitor to industry giants like DuPont and GE. His journey included navigating corporate takeovers, leading multinational teams, confronting cultural bias, and accepting personal sacrifices, particularly the strain his ambition placed on family life. A near-fatal car accident that killed a close friend became a defining turning point, propelling him into international leadership roles and reshaping both his career trajectory and personal life.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Edward Muñoz reflects on his legacy through his memoir Challenges, Triumphs, and Heroes: Memoirs of My Celanese Odyssey, which honors the people behind corporate success while capturing the human cost of leadership. He discusses his work in Germany and Mexico, his commitment to inclusive leadership, and the lessons learned from balancing ambition, culture, and responsibility. Now living with Parkinson’s disease, he remains active through photography, travel, and leadership within the arts community, helping an organization not only survive the pandemic but grow significantly. Key takeaways include the importance of resilience, values-driven leadership, preserving personal history, and leaving something meaningful behind for future generations.
Quotes:
“The hardest challenge was balancing ambition with family. You gain a career, but you pay a price, and you have to decide what you are willing to give up.”
“I am an American. That moment taught me how perception works and how easily people define others before they listen.”
“You are not going to be around forever, so you have to leave something behind that others can learn from.”
“When I think I might get fired, I remember this: I was looking for a job when I got here.”
Resources:
- Edward H. Muñoz on LinkedIn
- Muñoz Group Investment Banking (official site)
- Challenges, Triumphs, and Heroes: Memoirs of My Celanese Odyssey (Amazon)
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 30:39 — 42.1MB) | Embed
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1524: From War-Torn Vietnam to America Finding Freedom, Purpose, and Healing After Conflict with Author & Activist Thuy Reed
Thuy Reed is a Vietnamese American author whose life was shaped by war, loss, displacement, and resilience. Born in a small village in Vietnam during the war, she witnessed firsthand the devastation inflicted on families and communities, including the death of her brother, who was killed by a sniper at the age of 21. She left Vietnam as a young woman, believing she would return, only to have South Vietnam fall months later, permanently altering the course of her life. After immigrating to the United States, she navigated profound cultural shifts, built a new life, raised a family, and transformed her painful experiences into a lifelong commitment to peace, civic responsibility, and honoring the true cost of freedom.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Thuy Reed shares how her experiences motivated her to write Dear America: From Vietnam with Love, a memoir written as both a personal reflection and a message to her adopted country. She discusses her 12-year effort to help lift the U.S. trade embargo on Vietnam, her deep concerns about political violence and civic disengagement, and her belief that democracy requires education, participation, and accountability. Through her story, she emphasizes that war leaves generational wounds, violence does not win hearts or minds, and freedom must be protected through informed action rather than fear. The key takeaways center on valuing democracy, rejecting violence, staying engaged, and remembering the human cost behind political decisions.
Quotes:
“I do not like war, because the bullet that killed a boy on the battlefield went straight into his mother’s heart.”
“You cannot win hearts and minds with guns and bullets. You cannot.”
“This is America. If you want change, you work hard, you vote, and you stay engaged. You do not tear it down.”
“I love America with all my heart, because this is where everything that is me and mine is found.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 28:31 — 39.2MB) | Embed
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1523: Publicity Over Ads: Get More Sales and Influence Without the High Cost with Public Relations Expert Jill Lublin
Jill Lublin is a longtime publicity strategist and media expert with more than 25 years of experience helping entrepreneurs, authors, and professionals gain visibility without paying for advertising. Throughout her career, she has focused on demystifying publicity and removing financial and emotional barriers that keep people from sharing their message. Her work addresses common challenges, such as fear of visibility, unclear messaging, and the misconception that publicity requires expensive PR agencies. By reframing publicity as a skill that anyone can learn, she has helped clients turn personal stories, setbacks, and unique perspectives into compelling media features that drive credibility, trust, and business growth.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Jill Lublin explains how she helps people become their own publicity machine by focusing on clear messaging, consistency, and practical weekly actions. She emphasizes spending as little as 30 minutes a week on real visibility-building activities such as Google Alerts, responding to media requests, and booking podcast interviews, rather than relying solely on social media. She shares examples of clients who transformed their stories into primary media coverage, book sales, and consulting revenue, reinforcing that publicity multiplies reach and monetizes expertise over time. Key takeaways include saying yes to opportunities, using all parts of your story, starting local, and viewing publicity as a long-term asset that builds authority, trust, and lasting influence.
Quotes:
“Publicity does not have to be expensive or complicated. When you make it accessible, it becomes a powerful tool for every entrepreneur.”
“Consistency and persistence create publicity. When you stay focused and keep showing up, visibility follows.”
“Spend 30 minutes a week on real visibility-building activities, and you will see momentum. Publicity rewards action, not perfection.”
“Publicity is a gift that keeps on giving because it multiplies you, monetizes you, and maximizes your message.”
Resources:
- Jill Lublin on LinkedIn
- Guerrilla Publicity: Hundreds of Sure-Fire Tactics to Get Maximum Sales for Minimum Dollars (Amazon)
- Jill Lublin Publicity (official site)
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 21:26 — 29.4MB) | Embed
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1522: Master Your Playbook: Unlock Personal Potential and Build High-Performing Teams with Larry Dodd
Larry Dodd is an executive coach and the founder of OpenPlaybook with more than 35 years of experience helping leaders and teams reconnect to what drives real performance. His journey includes navigating career choices that were initially misaligned with his natural strengths, an experience that forced him to work harder than necessary and ultimately sparked deeper self-examination. Through setbacks, reflection, and disciplined personal growth, he developed a strengths-based methodology rooted in understanding innate talents, building confidence, and turning self-awareness into effective leadership. His career includes high-impact roles such as working with the San Francisco Giants, where a pivotal opportunity reinforced the importance of confidence, preparation, and offering value without fear of failure.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Larry Dodd explains how OpenPlaybook helps individuals and organizations rebuild connections in a disconnected, post-pandemic world. His work centers on three core concepts: the playbook you are given, the playbook you develop, and the playbook you give away. By using tools such as CliftonStrengths alongside deep, human-centered coaching, he helps people align roles with strengths, build engaged teams, and create cultures where leaders invest in others rather than operate in isolation. Key takeaways include the importance of connection over convenience, confidence built through repetition and guided reflection, and viewing setbacks as catalysts for growth. His current work focuses on developing strengths-based leaders who create lasting impact by sharing their experiences, mentoring others, and building teams that thrive rather than merely perform.
Quotes:
“Everybody has inherent talents, but if we never stop to understand what we actually have, we end up working twice as hard just to play even.”
“Nothing replaces connection. You can get information faster than ever, but developing people still requires time, trust, and human presence.”
“As you do the work, you build confidence. As you build confidence, you take risks. And when you repeat that cycle enough times, people start asking how you got there.”
“Success is not a straight line. It is a series of setbacks and breakthroughs, and those setbacks are often where the real strength is built.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 28:19 — 38.9MB) | Embed
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1521: Pivot on Purpose: Reinvent Your Calling with EOS for Greater Clarity, Freedom, and Team Momentum with Joshua Adams
Joshua Adams is a serial entrepreneur, EOS Implementer, and former branding agency founder dedicated to helping visionary leaders gain clarity, traction, and freedom in their organizations. After transforming his own business using the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and selling it after twenty-four years. Joshua now coaches executive teams to break through chaos, foster alignment, and build healthy, sustainable companies. He draws on rich experience in agency leadership, fractional CMO work, and his passion for empowering people to operate in their unique strengths.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Joshua Adams returns to join Robert Plank, sharing the personal and professional pivots that set him on his current path. Joshua exposes the pitfalls of goal procrastination, the energizing power of “artificial urgency,” and why so many businesses need, not just more software but an operating framework like EOS to truly thrive. Listeners will learn about the importance of shared language, how consistency in leadership systems prevents organizational drift, and why, ultimately, professional success is built atop lessons learned from failure. Joshua also highlights the fulfillment he discovers daily by coaching leadership teams and empowering them to do their best work.
Quotes:
“Success is a big pile of failure that you’re standing on. Without our failures, we are not, we cannot be successful.”
“When you set that artificial sense of urgency, you spark the energy and momentum that gets things done. It’s healthier, and it pushes us forward.”
“Language matters. Calling things by different names creates confusion, but common language builds clarity and alignment across the team.”
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 26:28 — 36.4MB) | Embed
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1520: A-Line Mat: One Woman’s Journey to Heal and Reinvent Her Body Through Yoga with Innovator Annie Appleby
Annie Appleby is a yoga innovator, entrepreneur, and passionate advocate for holistic health and wellness. Renowned for her resilience and ingenuity, Annie overcame a life-changing car accident to transform her healing journey into the invention of the patented YogaForce A-Line mat now used by athletes, rehabilitation patients, and celebrities alike. As the founder of YogaForce.com, she pioneered the concept of alignment-focused yoga accessories and introduced Doga Yoga, a practice for people and their canine companions. With decades of experience teaching at top companies and working with major health organizations, Annie empowers others to prioritize wellness, embrace alignment, and build resilience no matter where they begin.
In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Annie Appleby joins Robert Plank to share her inspiring path from overcoming injury to launching innovative yoga products and advocating for preventative health. Annie reveals the personal story behind her A-Line yoga mat, discusses the rise of Doga Yoga, and recounts the persistence required to stand out in a competitive industry even in the face of intellectual property challenges. Listeners will learn about the crucial roles of sleep, posture, and alignment in living a vibrant life, how Annie’s inventions reached from Hollywood sets to major retailers, and why helping others is her enduring motivation. Annie also offers practical guidance for maintaining health, cultivating confidence, and thriving in adversity.
Quotes:
"If you don't have your health, your life is miserable. Your health is your wealth."
"You can fall down, but you have to get back up, right? Don't freak out. Something's gonna happen to you. Don't freak out."
"Alignment is a big deal right now. I started it just like I started dog yoga in 2009."
Resources:
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 27:13 — 37.4MB) | Embed
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