In this insightful episode of Brand Retro, host Mike Brevik dives into a discussion with Lindsey Coffey about the intersection of eco-friendliness and brand identity. Lindsey shares her journey from the fashion industry to becoming a vocal advocate for environmental activism. They explore how brands can authentically integrate sustainability into their messaging without falling into the trap of greenwashing. Lindsey highlights the initiatives of EcoBranders, providing a blueprint for businesses aiming to make a real impact while maintaining profitability. Tune in to learn how embracing sustainability can enhance brand loyalty and why every step towards eco-consciousness counts, no matter the size.

Who’s the Guest?
Lindsey Coffey, an acclaimed model and Miss Earth 2020, has leveraged her extensive experience in the fashion industry to champion environmental sustainability and ethical consumerism. With over a decade in modeling, Lindsey has gained a profound understanding of the inner workings of fashion marketing and consumer behavior, insights she now applies in her advocacy for eco-friendly practices. As the Head of Community Engagement & Impact Awareness at EcoBranders, Lindsey works to elevate environmental consciousness within the business sector and among consumers, promoting sustainable business practices that do not sacrifice profitability. Her commitment to environmental activism and her unique blend of industry experience make her a leading voice in integrating eco-consciousness with brand identity, aiming to inspire businesses and individuals alike to make mindful and impactful choices.

Highlights
00:19 - The importance of eco-friendly branding.
01:02 - Lindsey’s background and journey in the fashion industry.
02:43 - Lindsey’s shift towards environmental activism.
04:31 - Intersection of eco-consciousness and brand identity.
05:28 - Example of EcoBranders.
07:10 - Challenges and benefits of transparency in eco branding.
09:04 - Addressing imposter syndrome in eco-conscious branding.
10:50 - Greenwashing: A significant issue.
14:00 - Importance of transparency for credibility.
17:40 - Discussion on carbon offsets and company responsibility.
19:55 - EU regulations on green claims.
21:53 - Examples of brands doing specific eco-friendly actions correctly.
25:37 - Emphasizing honesty in eco-conscious branding for credibility.
29:20 - The importance of eco-friendly choices and educating consumers.

Episode Resources

• Connect with Mike Brevik:
• www.brandretro.com
• http://www.cyberdogzmarketing.com/
• mike@cyberdogzmarketing.com
• Connect with Lindsey Coffey
• http://lindsey-coffey.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/lindseymariecoffey/
• https://www.facebook.com/lindseymariecoffey
• https://x.com/lindseymcoffey
• https://www.youtube.com/c/LindseyMarieCoffey
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindseymariecoffey/
• https://ecobranders.com/

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In this insightful episode of Brand Retro, Mike Brevik sits down with Luke Infinger, a creative turned entrepreneur who has carved a niche in the marketing world. Starting his career immersed in the arts and motion graphics, Luke shares his journey from working on high-profile projects like the Game of Thrones season three promo to founding his own agency specialized in the orthodontic and dental markets. Discover how Luke's artistic background and competitive drive shaped his entrepreneurial spirit and led him to rethink traditional career paths. Tune in to learn how embracing creativity beyond the confines of art has enabled Luke to innovate and lead in the business realm, providing valuable lessons for anyone looking to transform their passions into a successful enterprise.

Who’s the Guest?
Luke Infinger is the founder of HIP Creative, an agency specializing in the orthodontic and dental space. He began his career with a deep interest in the arts, developing skills in painting, drawing, and music from a young age. Luke studied motion graphics at Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) and initially worked in post-production in New York, where he participated in high-profile projects like the season three promo for "Game of Thrones." However, he found the environment stifling creatively and limiting in terms of income potential. Disillusioned with the pressures and limitations of his job, Luke returned to Pensacola, Florida, where he transitioned into starting his own agency. This move allowed him to blend his creative talents with entrepreneurship, focusing on long-term client relationships and strategic business growth within the specialized niche of orthodontics and dentistry.

Highlights
04:34 - Big opportunity at a New York motion design shop.
05:49 - Becoming disillusioned with the industry.
10:03 - Discovering broader applications of creativity.
11:48 - From miserable job to entrepreneurial success.
13:05 - Creativity beyond design—a new perspective.
14:45 - Idea execution—much harder than it seems.
15:47 - Importance of detachment for creativity.
20:00 - Education systems evolving rapidly.
23:07 - Hard truth—most people remain average due to conditioning.
25:30 - Navigating the fine line between ideas and hard work.
28:40 - Internet success—easier said than done.
30:50 - Real mentors are often invisible success stories.
32:15 - Chasing average in small-town mentality.
35:20 - Merging ideas and hard work for true success.

Episode Resources

• Connect with Mike Brevik:
• www.brandretro.com
• http://www.cyberdogzmarketing.com/
• mike@cyberdogzmarketing.com
• Connect with Luke Infinger
• https://lukeinfinger.com/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/luke-infinger-b36a001b/
• https://www.instagram.com/luke_infinger/
• https://x.com/InfingerLuke

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• Follow on Spotify
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

In this enlightening episode of Brand Retro, Mike Brevik sits down with Zahra Karsan, a Wall Street Journal bestselling author and certified coach renowned for her expertise in peak performance coaching. Dive into an in-depth conversation that explores the fascinating intersection of neuroscience and human behavior, and discover practical strategies for achieving extraordinary results both personally and professionally. Zahra shares her unique approach to unlocking potential through understanding the human factors that inhibit performance, offering a roadmap to overcome these challenges. Whether you're an entrepreneur or a seasoned executive, this episode provides valuable insights into mastering the art of high performance and building cohesive, thriving teams. Join us as Zahra unravels the psychology behind success and lays out a path to personal fulfillment and professional triumph.

Additionally, we would like to introduce you to the Life Block Quiz, which is designed to help individuals identify the obstacles that may be hindering their happiness and success. Use promo code REWIRE20@ and receive a 20% discount on the Life Block Quiz, the book and coaching sessions.

Who’s the Guest?
Zahra Karsan is a seasoned peak performance coach, Wall Street Journal bestselling author, and speaker who has made significant strides in the fields of neuroscience and positive psychology. Her career began in management consulting, where she excelled in fostering centers of excellence and delivering successful results across various high-stakes projects. Zahra's profound interest in human behavior and organizational success led her to work closely with C-level executives and their management teams, aiming to optimize performance and enhance team cohesion.

Her approach integrates deep insights into human psychology with practical coaching techniques, focusing on overcoming subconscious barriers to success and mastering self-awareness. Zahra is passionate about helping individuals and corporate clients unlock their full potential by understanding and harnessing their innate capabilities. Through her books and the innovative Life Block Quiz, Zahra provides tools for individuals to explore their personal and professional lives, encouraging them to define and achieve their unique definitions of success. She is a proponent of lifelong learning and believes that everyone can benefit from the insights and clarity provided by professional coaching.

Highlights
01:28 - Stress, survival instincts, and success.
04:00 - Entrepreneurs and self-awareness.
05:20 - Loneliness and the entrepreneurial journey.
06:23 - Coaching and successful results.
11:30 - The Lifeblock Quiz and its purpose.
16:15 - The importance of realistic business planning.
17:39 - Honesty and transparency with clients.
20:47 - Alignment between life values and business.
22:09 - Benefits and impact of having a coach.

Episode Resources

• Connect with Mike Brevik:
• www.brandretro.com
• http://www.cyberdogzmarketing.com/
• mike@cyberdogzmarketing.com
• Connect with Zahra Karsan
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/zahrakarsan/
• https://rewiremindsetsystem.com/
• https://www.instagram.com/successcoachzahra/
• https://www.facebook.com/SuccessCoachZahra
• https://www.amazon.com/Weeks-Happy-Ultimate-Abundance-Happiness/dp/0578330644
• https://rewiremindsetsystem.com/quiz/

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• Subscribe with Apple Podcasts
• Follow on Spotify
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

In this inspiring episode of Brand Retro, Mike Brevik engages with Howie Chan, a former scientist turned branding expert, who shares his unique journey from the rigors of stem cell research to mastering the art of branding in the healthcare sector. Howie delves into his evolution from a medical field professional to a marketing strategist, illustrating the pivotal moments that shaped his career. He discusses the importance of brand perception, his approach to overcoming professional setbacks, and how personal experiences influenced his business philosophy. This episode not only explores Howie’s professional metamorphosis but also provides valuable insights into the transformative power of branding in any industry. Tune in to learn how embracing change and curiosity can lead to fulfilling new opportunities.

Who’s the Guest?
Howie Chan is the visionary behind Legend Letters, an initiative aimed at inspiring individuals to pursue their own versions of a legendary life through strategic branding and personal development. Formerly a scientist specializing in stem cell research, Howie's career trajectory shifted dramatically as he delved into the corporate world, eventually finding his passion in marketing and branding within the healthcare industry. His experience spans significant roles, from product marketing to agency leadership, where he honed his skills in brand strategy working with startups and Fortune 500 companies alike.

Howie's transition from the structured environment of a med device company to the dynamic realm of marketing agencies equipped him with a deep understanding of how to build compelling brands that resonate with specific audiences. His philosophy centers on the belief that personal and corporate branding should seamlessly align with one’s authentic self, enhancing the inherent values and mission of the individual or company.

With Legend Letters, Howie combines his extensive marketing expertise with personal insights to help others understand the power of branding not just as a business tool, but as a transformative personal journey. His work encourages professionals to invest in their personal brands to achieve recognition and success in their respective fields. Through his upcoming podcast and ongoing newsletter, Howie continues to share stories and strategies that empower individuals to take charge of their narrative and make impactful contributions to their communities and industries.

Highlights
01:10 - Howie’s transition from corporate life to branding
02:15 - Initial career in science and marketing shift
03:50 - Experience in product marketing vs. agency work
05:21 - Key roles within healthcare industry marketing
08:30 - The pivotal moment of early career crisis at an agency
12:45 - Transition to personal branding and entrepreneurship
17:20 - The concept of personal branding and reputation
22:10 - Brand misperceptions in the business world
24:50 - Branding as a decision-making shortcut
28:10 - Value of personal brand attributes
32:30 - Overcoming fear and imposter syndrome
36:05 - Start of Legend Letters after a health scare
40:10 - Encouragement for entrepreneurs and brand building

Episode Resources

• Connect with Mike Brevik:
• www.brandretro.com
• http://www.cyberdogzmarketing.com/
• mike@cyberdogzmarketing.com
• Connect with Howie Chan
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/howiechaniam/
• https://www.howiechan.com/

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• Subscribe with Apple Podcasts
• Follow on Spotify
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

In this captivating episode of Brand Retro, we sit down with Jennifer Mulchandani, founder of Arlington Strategy and host of the M Word podcast. Discover how Jennifer's agency seamlessly integrates robust marketing strategies with a profound commitment to community service. Jennifer shares insights from her journey of infusing corporate social responsibility into everyday business practices and why doing good is not just an option but a foundational element of her agency's identity. Learn how any business, regardless of size, can make a meaningful impact through thoughtful community engagement and strategic philanthropy.

Who’s the Guest?
Jennifer Mulchandani is the visionary founder and CEO of Arlington Strategy, an innovative marketing agency renowned for its comprehensive approach that spans brand creation to ongoing marketing implementation. With a robust team of graphic designers, digital marketers, and brand strategists, Arlington Strategy excels in supporting clients through every stage of growth, particularly specializing in non-profit organizations and small businesses with a focus on impactful, community-oriented results.

Jennifer's passion for integrating public service with powerful marketing strategies defines her professional ethos. She launched Arlington Strategy 12 years ago with a vision rooted in her extensive background in public service, government, and policy. This experience has profoundly influenced her approach to business, where she strives to blend economic success with societal benefits.

Under Jennifer's leadership, Arlington Strategy not only develops dynamic marketing solutions but also emphasizes corporate social responsibility. The agency actively engages in community projects and pro bono work, supporting local non-profits and educational institutions, thereby reinforcing the idea that businesses can thrive while making a significant positive impact on society.

Highlights
01:08 - Jennifer’s vision: Thriving Brands a Better World.
01:47 - Incorporating heart and soul into business.
02:51 - Marketing authenticity vs. gimmicky strategies.
03:59 - Critique of corporate social responsibility.
04:35 - Daily community engagement as a cultural norm.
05:52 - Pro bono work elevates team morale.
07:13 - Case study: Supporting local social services nonprofit.
10:48 - Integrating philanthropy into client onboarding.
11:36 - Tactical and philosophical client questionnaires.
12:43 - Identifying impactful, brand-aligned partnerships.
14:49 - Supporting community college system foundation.
16:01 - Long-term engagement brings mutual benefits.
17:59 - Association with community organizations enhances brand image.
19:28 - Various non-monetary ways to support nonprofits.
20:58 - Real-life example: Builder’s continuous charity engagement.
21:20 - Agency support enhances client-integrated marketing.
24:10 - Practical advice for small businesses to get involved.
27:00 - Board membership as an engagement strategy.

Episode Resources

• Connect with Mike Brevik:
• www.brandretro.com
• http://www.cyberdogzmarketing.com/
• mike@cyberdogzmarketing.com
• Connect with Jennifer Mulchandani
• https://arlingtonstrategy.com/
• https://www.linkedin.com/company/arlington-strategy/
• https://www.facebook.com/ArlingtonStrategy
• https://www.instagram.com/arl_strategy/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifermulchandani/

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• Follow on Spotify
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Join us on this insightful episode of Brand Retro as we dive into the world of promotional products with Swire Ho, also known as the Promo Guy, from Garuda Promotional and Branding. Discover the critical role of promotional products in maintaining brand consistency and enhancing customer journeys. Swire shares expert advice on choosing quality over quantity, aligning promotional items with your brand ethos, and the strategic use of promotional products to boost brand awareness. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls and ensure that your promotional efforts genuinely represent your brand's quality and values.

Who’s the Guest?
Swire Ho, known as #thepromoguy, is a seasoned expert in the promotional products industry and the founder of Garuda Promotional and Branding Solutions. With a rich background in branding and marketing, Swire specializes in helping businesses enhance their brand visibility and customer engagement through carefully selected promotional items. His approach emphasizes the importance of aligning promotional products with a company's brand ethos to create lasting impressions.

Swire's expertise extends beyond just product selection; he consults on brand consistency and the strategic use of promotional items as part of a broader marketing strategy. His insights are particularly valuable for companies looking to make a tangible impact in their marketing efforts without sacrificing quality or brand integrity. Swire is also an advocate for thoughtful, targeted marketing campaigns that focus on the ideal client, ensuring that promotional efforts are both effective and cost-efficient.

Highlights
01:03 - Impact of cheap promotional products on brand perception.
02:27 - Importance of aligning promotional items with brand quality.
04:03 - Unique and memorable promotional items create brand experiences.
05:19 - Being strategic and selective in choosing promotional products.
06:03 - Personalized gifts for top clients enhance brand loyalty.
08:45 - Using high-quality promotional items for brand representation.
11:19 - Timing and planning ahead for effective promotional strategies.
12:20 - Establishing a marketing calendar for promotional product planning.
12:59 - Benefits of involving advisors early in the promotional planning process.
14:07 - Importance of realistic lead times for promotional products.
15:29 - Practical lead times for different types of promotional orders.
16:05 - Involving advisors in logo design for compatibility with promotional products.
17:30 - Managing daunting options in the promotional products market.
18:39 - Trusting professionals for effective promotional product selection.

Episode Resources

• Connect with Mike Brevik:
• www.brandretro.com
• http://www.cyberdogzmarketing.com/
• mike@cyberdogzmarketing.com
• Connect with Swire Ho
• https://www.garudapromo.com/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/swirehothepromoguy/

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• Follow on Spotify
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts

Join us on this episode of Brand Retro as we chat with Lauren Litt, the multifaceted owner of Lil Shameless Plug. Dive into Lauren's unique journey from scream queen actress to social media maestro, where she blends her passions to create a dynamic business model. Discover how authenticity and precise storytelling in social media can transform personal connections into business success. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an established business owner, Lauren's insights on the intersection of acting and business offer valuable lessons on building a brand that's truly your own. Tune in to learn how you can make your mark by being unapologetically yourself in the business world.

Who’s the Guest?
Lauren Litt is a multifaceted entrepreneur who seamlessly blends her passions for acting and social media through her business, Lil Shameless Plug. As the owner and driving force behind this vibrant social media management company, Lauren focuses on empowering coaches and entrepreneurs with the skills they need to excel in the digital world. Her unique approach to social media education is heavily influenced by her acting career, where she’s known for her dynamic presence both on and off the screen, including roles in various (self-proclaimed) B-level horror films.

Lauren’s philosophy extends beyond typical social media tactics; she utilizes acting exercises adapted for business to help clients discover the "character" of their brand. This method helps businesses articulate a clear, compelling identity that captivates and engages their ideal customers. As a coach and consultant, Lauren’s goal is to demystify social media for those who feel overwhelmed by it, providing them with the tools and confidence to harness its power for their business success.

Highlights
10:56 - Using social media for storytelling.
21:32 - 2024 social media trends.
24:37 - Realistic expectations for social media campaigns.
16:40 - Importance of engagement over followers.

Episode Resources

• Connect with Mike Brevik:
• www.brandretro.com
• http://www.cyberdogzmarketing.com/
• mike@cyberdogzmarketing.com
• Connect with Lauren Litt
• https://lilshamelessplug.com/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-litt/
• https://www.instagram.com/getsocialhappy/
• https://linktr.ee/lauren.litt

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In this episode of the Brand Retro Podcast, Mike Brevik sits down with Leah Leaves from Alderdaan Operations Solutions. Leah shares her expertise in bringing order to chaos within small businesses, particularly in the digital marketing space. They dive deep into the importance of operational efficiency, the role of systems and structure in business growth, and the value of having the right team in place. Leah also reveals the story behind her company's name, inspired by her love for Star Wars, and how it reflects their mission to support businesses in their journey from chaos to clarity. Whether you're a small business owner or just a fan of strategic thinking, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips for creating a strong operational foundation. Tune in to learn why operations should be on your radar from day one!

Who’s the Guest?
Leah Leaves is the founder and CEO of Alderdaan Operations Solutions, a company dedicated to helping small businesses, particularly digital marketing agencies, bring order to their operations and thrive in chaotic environments. With a passion for turning disarray into structured success, Leah leverages her expertise in operational efficiency to guide business owners in implementing effective systems, optimizing their teams, and achieving their strategic goals. A self-proclaimed Star Wars enthusiast, Leah named her company after Princess Leia’s home planet, Alderaan, reflecting her commitment to being a guiding force for businesses seeking growth and clarity. Leah’s approach is deeply rooted in understanding the unique needs of each client, empowering them to move beyond survival mode and into sustainable success.

Highlights
03:50 - Identifying the need for Aldarone: bringing order out of chaos for small businesses.
06:00 - Placing operations managers in small digital marketing agencies to manage chaos.
10:41 - Investing in the right people to multiply business effects.
12:14 - Systems and processes should be flexible, not static.
13:59 - The importance of continuously evolving business operations.
16:21 - Simple steps to start addressing operational gaps.
18:26 - Defining operations as the glue that holds business systems together.
21:29 - Emphasizing the need for team transparency and feedback loops in business
operations.
23:56 - Documentation as a tool to understand and evolve business practices.
28:30 - Story behind the business name Alderdaan: connection to Star Wars and growth.

Episode Resources

• Connect with Mike Brevik:
• www.brandretro.com
• http://www.cyberdogzmarketing.com/
• mike@cyberdogzmarketing.com
• Connect with Leah Leaves
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/1eah1eaves/

Subscribe, Share and Review
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• Subscribe with Apple Podcasts
• Follow on Spotify
• Leave a review on Apple Podcasts