The Charleston Marketing Podcast

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.A personal brand can open doors, but only if it’s built on something real. We sit down with Analise Healy, Miss South Carolina Collegiate America and a project manager at Momentum Marketing, to unpack what it actually looks like to grow your career while your life is increasingly public. From the “how does the crown stay on” moments to the serious work behind being a titleholder, Analise shares the habits and mindset that keep her grounded and effective.We dig into her pageant journey from the high-pressure Miss USA system in New York to finding the right coaching, bouncing back from disappointing placements, and ultimately earning her state title in South Carolina. Analise  explains why confidence is built through reps, how interview prep forces real self-knowledge, and why you “never truly lose” if you leave with lessons, relationships, and a clearer reason to come back stronger.Then we zoom into the marketing side: managing clients across industries, staying detail-oriented, and building trust through fast response times and direct phone calls when things get complicated. She also shares practical time management tactics, plus a thoughtful take on using AI tools like ChatGPT for social media brainstorming without losing your voice. At the heart of it all is her community service platform, MusicLink Foundation, which connects underprivileged kids to free or reSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Most marketing advice still starts with “get more leads.” We want to start somewhere more honest: the accounts you already know can change your year if you build the right relationships. That’s why we brought on Sloan Newman, author of The Relationship Revolution and an account-based marketing leader working in global B2B tech, to unpack what one-to-one ABM actually looks like when it’s done well.We talk through the shift from shouting into the void to building trust deep in the funnel, where marketing partners with sales and account teams week after week. Sloan breaks down the ABM tiers (programmatic, one-to-few, and one-to-one), why definitions get messy in modern marketing, and how a simple framework like the three Rs (reputation, relationship, revenue) helps you build credibility, expand what clients know you can do, and shorten sales cycles with real personalization. We also touch on AI in B2B marketing, not as hype, but as a practical tool for focus and smarter execution.Then we go behind the scenes on the author journey: pitching publishers, negotiating rights, cutting drafts, surviving edits, and the hustle of getting a business book into the world. Along the way, Sloan shares stories from Charleston to Seattle to the fencing strip, including a mindset shift that applies to both sport and strategy: stop reacting to the weapon and start reading the person.South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Most people talk about “fixing healthcare” from the outside. We wanted the view from inside the machine. So we sat down with Todd Headley, CEO of the Zucker Institute for Innovation Commercialization at MUSC, and Bob Crutchwell, Managing Director of the 1824 Fund and the South Carolina Health Innovation Fund, to unpack how healthcare innovation actually gets built, tested, protected, and funded in Charleston.We walk through MUSC’s commercialization pipeline, from clinicians and researchers spotting real problems to a structured process of assessing market need, product-market fit, and scalability. Todd shares how the Zucker Institute sources a huge volume of new ideas each year, why not every innovation should become a startup, and what it takes to move from an early concept to pilots and clinical trials. Bob explains why MUSC created a venture fund, how non-dilutive funding like SBIR and STTR can push a company farther before raising private capital, and what “escape velocity” looks like when a team is ready to build commercial momentum.We also get specific about what makes something investable in health tech and life sciences: intellectual property strategy, defensibility, milestones, and the realities of healthcare workflows. Then we zoom out to the future, including value-based care, care at home, rural access, and how AI in healthcare and agentic AI could speed deSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.If you’ve ever wondered why some creators feel instantly trustworthy while others feel like walking ads, this conversation puts language to it. We’re joined by Charleston creator and consultant Barb Skidmore, the voice behind Blushing Alpacas and the owner of Outside Center Consulting, to talk about what authenticity actually looks like in personal branding and influencer marketing.We get into the real mechanics of turning content into a business: choosing brand partnerships you’ll genuinely use, setting expectations around deliverables, and understanding the hidden labor behind a “simple post.” Barb also shares what she sees from the brand side as someone who runs social media marketing for restaurants, catering companies, and real estate, including how to keep up with Instagram Reels and TikTok trends without losing your voice. We also dig into paid media basics, like when boosting helps, when targeted ads matter, and how goals like reach, clicks, and conversions change the plan.Then we go to the part businesses rarely hear out loud: comment pods, bots, and inflated engagement. Barb explains what to look for, what questions to ask before you pay, and why great content still has value even when the audience signals are messy. You’ll also pick up travel hacks using Google Flights alerts and deal tools, plus the mindset that keeps her work sustainable.SubscribSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Tech problems rarely start as tech problems. They start as messy decisions, unclear ownership, and tool sprawl that quietly turns into risk. We’re joined by Charleston-based business and technology advisor Elliott Friedman, who’s lived on every side of the table: founder, operator, CTO, and now a trusted guide for professional service firms and private equity teams navigating growth and complexity. We dig into what “holistic” advising really means in practice. Elliott shares the red flags he looks for when a company is headed for trouble, from leadership teams treating technology as a grudging expense to organizations dragging hidden tech debt and paying for SaaS bloat they barely use. We also talk about the difference between building clean systems from day one for a new firm versus reverse-engineering legacy environments during private equity due diligence, where the goal is to reduce risk and create long-term value. Then we tackle the topic everyone’s wrestling with: AI. Elliot breaks down ethical AI use for CPAs and other regulated professionals, why dumping sensitive client data into consumer tools is dangerous, and why “AI” can sound confident while being completely wrong. He also tells the story of “vibe coding” a purpose-built CRM on a flight, proving that the right-sized tool can beat a bloated platform when you only need a tight workflow that your team will aSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.AI is moving so fast that most teams feel like they’re drinking from a fire hose, but the real advantage still comes from fundamentals: solid cloud architecture, clear data flows, and a plan that ties technology to business outcomes. We sit down with Will Horn of GDNA, an experienced technologist and AWS partner, to unpack what he calls the Agentic Cloud and how AI agents are changing the way companies build, automate, and scale.We get specific about what “cloud transformation” means for different organizations. For startups, it’s about nimble prototypes, SaaS unit economics, and architecture that can survive growth. For SMBs, it’s often legacy modernization, operational efficiency, and turning messy processes into digital systems that can be measured and improved. For enterprises, it’s innovation velocity, cost efficiency, and opening new markets without ballooning labor or risk.Will also shares a powerful framework he calls the Minimal Viable Journey, a way to map how data moves through a business and where value is created or lost. That lens makes AI strategy far more practical: it helps you prioritize the right use cases, understand data readiness for LLMs, and avoid building “cool” tools that never deliver ROI. We close by zooming out to the Charleston tech ecosystem, how to plug in locally, what’s missing, and what could be possible over the next two years.South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Search is turning into a single question, ad platforms keep getting more expensive, and “going viral” still does not guarantee sales. So what actually cuts through the noise and drives growth for a real business in Charleston? We sit down with Joe Brugman, Director of Sales and Strategy at Media Beast Marketing Group, to unpack the practical side of modern digital marketing: what matters, what to ignore, and how to lead clients with honesty when the numbers get uncomfortable.We talk about the BEAST framework Joe uses to explain what strong marketing looks like in the real world: budgeting, expertise, attribution, strategy, and transparency. That leads to the messy parts agencies and brands have to face, like why better cost per acquisition does not always mean you should lower spend, how to avoid novelty over function, and how message gaps show up when your culture and service delivery do not match your brand promise. Joe also shares a smart competitive tactic for positioning: read your competitors’ one-star reviews to find what the market hates, then build your differentiation around fixing it.The conversation goes deeper with a nonprofit marketing sprint from Campaign In A Day, including lessons from building a sensitive, community-driven campaign for the Ari Foss Foundation. We close with a clear-eyed look at AI and marketing, from “search everywhere optimization” tSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Craving a story where smoke, music, and community share the same plate? We sit with Aaron Siegel, founder of Home Team BBQ, to trace how a fine-dining chef built a family-first barbecue brand that reimagined what a neighborhood joint can be. From the ingenious “Kid Alley” that won over parents to the creative freedom that brought tacos, nachos, and brisket into the mix, Aaron shows how you evolve a tradition without losing its soul.We talk about the roots of the Home Team name and the manifesto that still guides the brand’s choices—live music, watch parties, easy outdoor hangs, and a menu that balances chef-driven technique with the speed people need. Aaron opens up about the early grind, the mistakes that taught him to slow down, and the leadership moves that kept talent for nearly a decade or more. If you’re building a hospitality brand, the takeaways are clear: trust your experience, design for real life, and invest in a culture that people want to stick with.What sets this conversation apart is the impact. Holy Smokes has become a major waterfront festival that benefits Hogs for the Cause, helping fund pediatric cancer care, including a million-dollar oncology wing in Greenville. Purpose-led specials like Queso for Clayson and Tacos for Tom turn everyday orders into meaningful support for blood cancer and ALS. Add a robust catering engine, collaborations with localSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.A coastal city with global ambitions—this conversation with Soloinsight CEO Carter Kennedy shows what it takes to scale identity governance from Charleston into 41 countries while keeping culture, speed, and profitability intact. We open with the simple promise behind complex infrastructure: connecting visitors, contractors, employees, and tenants to the right places at the right times through compliant, integrated access. From a Class A lobby to a hospital corridor, Carter explains how referenceable customers and network effects turn hard-won first deals into a repeatable enterprise motion.We dig into what building from Charleston looks like day to day: distributed hiring that complements a rising local scene, the real advantages of quality of life and a convenient airport, and the honest gaps in capital density that still need solving. Carter shares a clear go-to-market framework—industry conferences, channel partners, and word-of-mouth from marquee accounts—plus how a small sales team can land six-figure deals by focusing on value and outcomes. The roadmap for the region is equally direct: attract more investors to fuel proven playbooks, connect founders consistently through platforms like Dignation and Dig South, and turn momentum into that first billion-dollar win that seeds the next generation of companies.AI threads through the strategy as a practical lever, not a buzzword. Carter breaks it down into three moves: automate internal processes to shorten implementations, enhance existing products so customers pay for smarter results, and launch new AI-driven offerings already in demand across healthcare, finance, and critical infrastructure. We close with tangible takSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors.Support the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.The energy in Charleston’s tech scene isn’t hype—it’s momentum you can feel. We kick off Silicon Harbor Hot Take with Dig South founder Stanfield Gray to map the forces turning a coastal city into a serious launchpad for scalable startups. From the origin of “Silicon Harbor” to the nuts and bolts of building a summit that founders actually use, we unpack what makes this ecosystem work: practical access, operator‑led insights, and an abundance mindset that rewards collaboration without dulling competitive edge.We go deep on the strategy behind Dig South’s curation. Instead of celebrity flybys, we bring the people shipping products and signing deals—engineers from OpenAI, Microsoft, Nordstrom AI, and Amazon Prime Video, plus investors like 11 Tribes and long‑time partners from CRDA. You’ll hear how growth‑stage companies find customers and capital, how early founders get hands‑on with platforms, and why legal, cloud, and go‑to‑market lounges matter when you’re moving fast. We also talk timing: LLMs, agentic AI, and world models are exciting, but only some tools move the bottom line today. Learn how to test, adopt, and sequence new tech without derailing your roadmap.Underneath it all is a simple playbook: “Who Not How.” Swap solo heroics for the right collaborators, advisors, and partners. Leverage year‑round membership, rise‑and‑grind meetups, and a community demo stage to turn introductions into pilots and pilots into revenue. With Dig South anchoring Charleston Tech Week (June 8–12) and the summit set for June 11–12 at the College of Charleston, this is your chance to plug into a network designed for real outcomes, not vanity metrics.Subscribe for the monthly Hot Take, share this with a founder who should be in the room, and leave a review with the one topic you want usSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors.Support the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Curious cities don’t stand still, and Charleston is proof. We sit down with Tyler Wright Friedman, the guide behind Walk and Talk Charleston, to unpack how a walk can become a window into power, preservation, and the pulse of a modern Lowcountry city. Tyler maps out the three pillars she believes define the Charleston brand—history, preservation, and hospitality—and shows how each one lives not just in brochures but in policies, neighborhoods, and the choices residents make to keep a city’s soul intact.We go beyond pastel facades to highlight Charleston’s civil rights legacy. Tyler connects the dots from Briggs v. Elliott, tried on Meeting Street, to Brown v. Board of Education, and explains Judge Waring’s pivotal dissent and Thurgood Marshall’s role. The takeaway is simple and bracing: when we tell fuller stories, visitors don’t just look; they understand. That honesty also shapes how she guides: present facts clearly, honor the skilled labor—often enslaved—that built what we admire, and invite guests to think rather than react.Preservation comes into focus as community infrastructure, not museum‑only nostalgia. Tyler details Historic Charleston Foundation’s Common Cause Loan Fund, which helps legacy homeowners stay in place through forgivable exterior repair loans—a practical answer to rising costs and strict building rules. We also explore how tourism taxes fund pubSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Want to see what credibility looks like under pressure? We sit down with broadcaster and FEMA reservist Leyla Gulen to unpack the real work behind “overnight” stories, the human stakes of crisis communications, and why attention without accuracy is a losing game. Layla traces her arc from ballet hopeful to radio grinder to TV anchor in Los Angeles and San Francisco, revealing the invisible disciplines that build trust: relentless fact-checking, writing to match an anchor’s voice, and delivering clarity on impossible timelines. When she moved to Charleston, those habits met a city where reputation travels fast and relationships carry weight, reshaping how tough truths are told without turning personal.We dive into the influencer era and draw a sharp line between virality and veracity. As a co-founder of Tide Point PR, Layla favors senior, crisis-tested strategy over churn. She explains how to steer clients away from performative stunts and toward messages that survive scrutiny. Then the conversation heads straight into the field, where Layla’s FEMA deployments bring communications into disaster zones. She breaks down common myths about FEMA, the life-safety work that starts immediately, and the application steps that trip people up—plus how disaster recovery centers and hotlines actually help. The throughline is empathy: respect for place, patience with process, and thick skin whSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Big flavor meets big vision. We sat down with Marcus, founder and CEO of the Black Food Truck Festival, to unpack how a community-first idea became a 20,000-person destination weekend that’s now measured at $10.2 million in economic impact for Charleston. He traces the journey from a post-pandemic launch to a two-day experience that brings in 84% of attendees from outside the Tri-County area and 70% from out of state, turning Charleston into a must-visit hub for Black culinary culture and live music.We go inside the blueprint: why the festival invests in live bands, day parties at multiple bars, and family-friendly spaces to create an immersive, all-day flow. Marcus explains the vendor mix—Gullah-Geechee staples, African cuisine, soul food riffs, hibachi mashups, empanadas, seafood, wings, desserts, and strong vegan options—and the reality of lines at scale. He’s transparent about the headwinds too: sponsorship dollars tighten as alcohol spending dips, venue costs climb, and production expenses grow. The response is smarter marketing: a YouTube strategy for long-form performance videos, storytelling that highlights vendor success, and a 20,000-strong email list that fuels merch, premium offers, and year-round engagement.You’ll also hear how the team builds a better guest experience with a shaded VIP lounge, private South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.What if thinking about death could make your life and work lighter, clearer, and more intentional? We sit down with life and death coach Merridith Crowe to explore how memento mori—the simple, ancient reminder that we will die—can sharpen your choices today. This isn’t a gloomy detour. It’s a practical map for how to love better, lead with empathy, and build a business that matches your values.Meredith shares the heart of her work: guiding people through hard life changes and helping families plan end-of-life with compassion and detail, from medical preferences to the tone of a celebration. Along the way, we unpack why intentions beat resolutions, how present-tense identity statements shift behavior, and the simple weekly check-in that keeps you honest: How did I live, how did I love, what did I learn? We also look at authentic leadership in a noisy market—choosing your race, limiting clients to go deeper, and communicating with clarity instead of euphemism.We go there on the hard topics, too: hospice, the cultural distance from death, and the nuanced realities of medical assistance in dying in certain states. Meredith’s inclusive approach meets people where they are, honoring different beliefs while focusing on comfort and agency. For founders and marketers, the surprising takeaway is that mortality awareness makes you a better builder: more present, less reactive, kiSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Ever been asked “So, what do you do?” and felt your answer wobble? We sit down with strategist, mentor, and playwright-composer Thomas Heath to map a cleaner, kinder path to growth: start with foundational messaging, show up in real community, and set boundaries that protect your energy.Thomas breaks down why most founders can’t deliver a five-second answer and how a tight messaging playbook unlocks everything—LinkedIn visibility, investor confidence, and sales velocity. We get specific on the five LinkedIn fields that matter, why your banner is prime real estate, and how a 220-character headline becomes your everyday elevator speech. Thomas also pulls back the curtain on working with VC, PE, and family offices to align cofounders, sharpen mission language, and ship pitch decks that actually raise money.We tour Charleston’s startup scene through One Million Cups and the Harbor Entrepreneur Center, where “collision” moments create outsized opportunity. Alongside the tactics, we go deep on burnout: health scares, over-volunteering, and the hard reset toward time blocking, client boundaries, and a gratitude-first mindset. The through-line is sustainable growth—profit with impact, not grind for grind’s sake.Then the story pivots to Luke and Lucy, a rock musical inspired by ’70s and ’80s legends, now evolving into a docuseries that empowers teens. It tackles toxicSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.What happens when a poet decides to film an entire album live, open a song to the internet, and then knit twenty artists into a single five‑minute piece? We invited Charleston’s own Christian Morant to share how he balances heart‑first art with smart, sustainable marketing without losing the soul of the work.Christian takes us inside I’m Not A Rapper and the Snappin’ open verse challenge that drew thousands of views and dozens of collaborations. He breaks down why filming twelve live music videos made the project more human, how collaboration in the room changed arrangements on the fly, and why Stage Presence became a love letter to community. We also get candid about mental health: writing through depression, performing heavy poems safely, and letting therapy sit alongside craft so the work heals rather than harms.For creatives and marketers alike, this conversation is packed with practical takeaways. You’ll hear a simple workflow for capturing ideas from phone notes to journals to production docs, a realistic social media strategy that favors focus over burnout, and clear tips for separating the art hat from the business hat. We spotlight Charleston’s venues and festivals that nurture emerging voices, the power of mentorship in schools, and the mindset shift that puts value back into the work instead of the follower count.If you’re building a career in musiSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.A fired-then-flourishing designer, a flying carriage horse, and a city that rewards creative grit—this conversation with Andrew Barton is a masterclass in turning curiosity into a career. We swap polished origin myths for the real story: cold calls from a phone book, a first agency break with a so-so portfolio, and the moment he decided to bet on himself after an ill-fitting leadership role. What follows is a candid look at freelancing in Charleston, where relationships travel faster than résumés and a carefully crafted email beats a dozen scattered posts.Andrew walks us through building a client base without chasing every platform. His secret is deceptively simple: make your newsletter actually useful. From printable cards to small illustrations, he treats readers like clients and clients like collaborators, bringing them inside the design process and proving that clear writing drives great visuals. That clarity-first approach shows up in his most beloved project—Hayward the Horse—where a flying tour guide helps kids and newcomers fall in love with Charleston’s history. We break down the self-publishing playbook too: pricing for retail, choosing print specs that elevate the product, and doing the unglamorous work of distribution.We also tackle the question on every creative’s mind: where does AI fit? Andrew shares the fog he felt when image models took off—and why he South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.What happens when the spirit of Christmas meets the grit and growth of Charleston? We sit with Santa Smiley to explore how a city of parades, tree lightings, and school snow machines turns tradition into connection. From Hotel Bennett teas to James Island’s lights, we map the rituals that make the Lowcountry feel like home, then dig into the deeper current beneath the glitter: storytelling as the engine of community.Santa opens up about service with local police and fire departments, delivering toys to families in need and supporting firefighters through tough seasons. He talks candidly about the city’s rapid growth, how a shorter window between Thanksgiving and Christmas changes planning, and why belief isn’t childish—it’s a daily choice to expect good and create it. We trade cookie recipes, laugh about the laboo boo toy craze, and make room for real life: the surprise tow-truck saga, the search for the perfect Santa chair, and post-season reset plans that include beaches, theme parks, and scuba diving he learned right in Mount Pleasant.We also share what’s next: the North Charleston Pops Sounds of the Season on December 20, where families gather for carols, cookies, and that elusive perfect Santa throne. Throughout, the focus stays on what works—clear stories, warm partnerships, and small acts that compound into big community. If you’ve been craving a reason to lightSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.A 200-year-old newsroom building a modern growth engine isn’t a story you hear every day. We sit down with King & Columbus president and Post and Courier CRO, Chase Heatherly, to explore how a legacy media brand built a nimble, independent agency that treats branding and performance like partners, not rivals. From a new printing press in North Charleston to high-velocity digital campaigns, the throughline is simple: meet audiences where they are and measure what matters.We get practical about what actually works right now. Chase shares how the team uses paid social as a true conversion channel, why PPC remains resilient despite the AI noise, and how short-form vertical video travels across Reels, TikTok, and YouTube without losing the plot. We go deeper on first-party data strategies that survive cookie deprecation, the real role of AI in an agency (speed, not soul), and the reporting stack that turns UTMs and call tracking into clean, client-ready insights. Along the way, you’ll hear how an 18-person team spans media buying, PR, creative, video, and social—operating like a boutique shop with the backing of a statewide media organization.If you’re a marketer hungry for ROI, a founder trying to balance awareness with acquisition, or a student looking for your first break, you’ll find a clear, candid roadmap here. We also talk mentorship, internships, and the Charleston South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Come for the bass lines, stay for the blueprint of a modern creative business. We sit with Umphrey’s McGee bassist Ryan Stasik to trace how a college-born jam band built a 27-year career on improvisation, fan collaboration, and unapologetic DIY marketing. If you’ve ever wondered how to grow without giving up control, this conversation shows the moves: own your masters, design experiences your audience can shape, and make your visual identity tell the same story your music does.Ryan walks us through Blueprints, the new album constructed from years of recorded improvisations that fans helped curate into “Legos.” Those ideas were arranged into finished songs in an intimate Chicago session, preserving the edge between precision and chaos the band is known for. We dig into why imperfections matter, how recording has shifted from group rooms to home rigs, and the subtle craft of keeping long-form compositions engaging without sanding off their human touch.We also zoom out to the ecosystem: artwork drawn from real pedalboards, a merch arm that reflects the sound, and a live archive on nugs.net that rewards deep listening. Ryan talks candidly about staying together as a six-piece—honesty, timing, and “yes, and”—and how to balance fan connection with artistic integrity so the setlist doesn’t turn into favors. Along the way, we celebrate Charleston’s collaborative scene, swap faSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Ever wish the phone picked up itself and sounded like your best-trained staffer? We sit down with Bob Hilscher from Workforce Wave to explore how conversational AI is stepping in where IVRs fail, turning missed calls into booked revenue and repeatable service. From boutique hospitality to national home remediation, the results are hard to ignore: faster answers, fewer hang-ups, and real conversations that move people to a next step without the maze of “press 1 for…”We dig into how these voice agents are built—personality through prompting, not brittle scripts—plus the guardrails that keep them on-task and brand-safe. You’ll hear a live demo of “Elle,” a witty, concierge-style agent that shows what’s possible when tone, timing, and local knowledge come together. Then we get practical: HIPAA and SOC 2 considerations for medical workflows, how intake gets captured once and passed along accurately, and why 24/7 availability matters when storms hit or platforms go down. There’s a reason one agent handled 1,800 calls during a citywide flood and another caught $30,000 in restaurant event bookings that would’ve vanished.Data is the quiet superpower. A rich dashboard surfaces transcripts, color-coded call types, and quick controls so managers can update specials, scheduling ruleSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Big ideas rarely arrive fully formed—they grow from a single conversation, a brave email, and a room full of the right people. That’s the heartbeat of this episode with Angel Holmes, a Charleston native whose fingerprints are on the city’s culinary rise, women’s leadership networks, and a new purpose-driven hospitality venture.We unpack the origin of Charleston Wine & Food, from a sustainable seafood initiative and chef coalitions to building a nonprofit and borrowing best practices from festivals like South Beach and Aspen. Angel is candid about the unglamorous parts too: the mud-slicked year two, oversold zones, and why skimping on security, bathrooms, and flooring is the fastest way to break trust. If you’re in event marketing, sponsorships, or community building, her blueprint is a field guide—ask for help, design for experience, and plan for failure so attendees don’t feel it.Angel’s story is also about brand and belonging. She shares the Home Team Communications origin that later echoed through Home Team BBQ’s culture, plus a delightfully specific Pez collection that proves memorable details make messages stick. We explore Charleston’s growth, her family’s civic legacy, and how neighborhoods still connect on porches, at driveway cookouts, and through local institutions that welcome newcomers while honoring roots.Today, Angel is steering two high-impact South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.A fashion pitch in mall clothes. A Hotmail address that became a company name, Obviouslee. Salsa lessons to cover rent. That’s how Lee Deas' story begins, but the real ride is how she turned that grit into a values-led, 30-person B Corp agency that punches far above its weight.We dig into what B Corp certification looks like beyond the badge—how standards drive client selection, environmental practice, DEI, and leadership accountability. Lee shares why she pursued two people-first mergers, starting with shared values and a test project before financials, and how blending cultures led to smarter operations across Charleston and Boulder. With a portfolio anchored in outdoor lifestyle, impact brands, tourism, and major tennis and golf events, the team narrows focus to deepen expertise and protect creative energy.Then we get practical. Lee walks through building private large language models to securely store client knowledge, accelerate onboarding, and eliminate repetitive work. Weekly AI mastery challenges and a director of optimization keep innovation grounded and useful, while experiments like digital twins hint at the next wave of client service. We also talk retention, generational friction, and why flexibility plus purpose beats perks every time. Her favorite local campaign—an energetic, bilingual “get out the vote” effort duringSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.A teen builds a hip-hop forum, hears its bars on the radio, and sends Sony a homemade cease and desist—then grows up to lead an AI video platform. That’s how our conversation starts, and the twists don’t stop. We bring JT White (Augie.studio) and filmmaker Jake from Koz Films into the studio for a frank, funny, and deeply practical look at where AI helps creators—and where it crosses the line.We dig into the difference between augmentation and replacement. On one side: AI that cleans audio, removes filler words, accelerates edits, and prototypes storyboards so clients know what they’re buying. On the other: generative video trained on dubious datasets, copyright pitfalls, and the “race to the bottom” that devalues craft. JT argues for licensed models, provenance, and transparency; Jake champions on-set authenticity, human performance, and the years of practice behind great cinematography. Together we test real scenarios—a fast-turn social ad, LED wall shoots, product placement in B-roll—and show how to navigate them without losing the soul of the work.We also go under the hood: why many models aren’t commercially safe, how data scraping works, what “licensed training” really means, and why your masters should live in your own storage. You’ll hear practical steps any marketer or creator can use today: insist on clear rights, document sources, keep protected archives, anSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.The wildest origin story we’ve heard starts with a liger and ends with a microphone. Brenna Lawrence—VP of Business Development at Brown & Brown, relentless networker, and newly minted TEDx speaker—joins us to unpack how she turned fear into a lever for growth, community, and real change. This isn’t a highlight reel; it’s a field guide for showing up as your whole self and still delivering results.We dive into how Brenna treats sales as courtship—earning the next conversation by listening more than pitching, and building trust on LinkedIn through authenticity and consistency. She walks through the nuts and bolts of DisruptHR (5 minutes, 20 auto-advancing slides) and how that constraint sharpened her message. With help from mentors, she built a TEDx talk that threads mindset with mission, tackling the stigma around domestic violence and bringing resources straight to the places people will actually see them—bathrooms, break rooms, and industry events. It’s marketing with a heart: meet the audience where they are, repeat the message with care, and make help easy to reach.We also get practical about culture and leadership. Brenna’s family motto—don’t be a dick—translates to radical candor at work: open communication, clear boundaries, and zero tolerance for energy vampires. She shares how she raises confident kids (ban negative self-talk, praise effort, ask “What do you tSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.What if your social stack was actually simple—and proved its value? We’re joined by Brianna Crossley, Director of Growth & Engagement, and Rachel Bacall, Engagement Manager, from Pollen Social to unpack a platform built for velocity and clarity: multi-channel publishing from one place, clean analytics that tie effort to outcomes, and AI features that help you ship better work, faster. Starting at $25 a month, Pollen is designed for busy operators and lean teams who need results without the bloat.We trace Pollen’s Charleston roots and community-first mindset—think partnerships with AMA, chambers, and nonprofits—then step into the bigger vision: a data lake that blends your historical performance, CRM-lite contacts, and anonymized external signals to deliver smarter targeting and timing. Whether you’re a food truck, a multi-location brand, or a growing agency, the aim is the same: reduce friction, focus the message, and move the metrics that matter. Expect practical tactics too: how to write calls-to-action that earn real comments, why replies are strategy not afterthought, and how to balance AI-generated assets with authentic, human storytelling.Creation stays central with email templates ready now and planned integrations for Canva and a video editor like CapCut, while the AI caption generator offers multiple on-brand tones from a single upload. Agencies get unlimited South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Step into the dynamic world of South Carolina's technological revolution with Jamie DeMent, Director of Technology and Cyber Initiatives at the SC Council on Competitiveness. In this illuminating conversation, Jamie reveals how Charleston is transforming from a tourist destination into a vibrant tech hub where innovation thrives alongside historic charm.The collaborative spirit driving South Carolina's tech growth takes center stage as Jamie explains how SC Competes connects entrepreneurs, established companies, and educational institutions to create meaningful economic impact. "If we're doing our job right, we're putting the right people in the right room for the right conversation to make things happen," she shares, highlighting the power of relationship-building in a state where social capital creates collective strength.Discover surprising developments reshaping the region, from pioneering AI curriculum in eighth-grade classrooms to Charleston's emergence as a leader in electric vehicle battery technology. Jamie's insights reveal a technological ecosystem that has matured significantly over two decades, now offering a complete entrepreneurial pathway that keeps talent in South Carolina while attracting outside investment and innovation.The conversation explores how growth has created opportunities for small businesses to thrive, the critical balance betweSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.From ripping out Yellow Pages to designing iconic logos, Brady Waggner's marketing journey embodies the creative hustle that defines success in the industry. As co-founder and executive creative director of HOOK, Brady brings a refreshing perspective to brand development that goes beyond traditional approaches.Brady's story begins in Minnesota as the son of an advertising executive during the waning days of the Mad Men era. Growing up surrounded by markers, tear sheets, and creative energy in his father's agency housed in the Pillsbury Mansion sparked a lifelong passion. After studying advertising journalism at the University of Kansas – a foundation he credits for teaching him how to uncover brand truths through effective questioning – Brady made his way to Charleston with a simple philosophy: "I want to work where I want to live, not live where I want to work."HOOK's approach to marketing centers on creating surprise and relevance – "If it's different, they'll notice, and if it's relevant, they'll listen." This philosophy has guided their work with lifestyle brands, particularly in the beverage industry where they've helped importers position European products for American consumers. One of their standout projects includes creating the iconic fish hook logo for HUK performance fishing apparel by cleverly turning the "U" into a hook shape – a simple yet brilliant soluSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Ever wondered how a hospitality professional becomes the founder of a thriving digital marketing agency? Q Moldrik's journey from managing hotel systems to building Legacy Digital showcases the power of transferable skills and entrepreneurial vision.As the oldest of five children and seventeen grandchildren, Q brings natural leadership and problem-solving abilities to her role as CEO and founder. Her boutique agency approach – maintaining a 14-person team that handles everything from branding and content creation to SEO and website development – allows for personalized service that larger agencies simply can't match.What truly sets Legacy Digital apart is their commitment to quality over quantity. While industry standards push digital managers to handle 10-15 clients, Q caps her team at six clients each. "Capacity is a huge thing in this industry," she explains. "We're creatives at the end of the day. I can't be creative with 15 clients." This philosophy ensures clients receive thoughtful, strategic content rather than rushed deliverables.The agency's growth mirrors Q's "farming" analogy for business development: Year one plants seeds, trying various approaches and service models. Year two waters those seeds, knowing 80% might fail. By year three, you harvest the 20% that flourished. This patient approach has transformed Legacy Digital from primarily serving South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.When arcades faded away, Christopher saw an opportunity. The Charleston native's vision? Create a gaming space built "from the viewpoint of a bar out" – combining the communal joy of gaming with modern technology and adult beverages.Opening Reforge Gaming Lounge wasn't easy. Originally slated for April 2020, the pandemic forced a devastating five-year delay. But persistence paid off when they finally welcomed guests in November 2024 to their Dorchester Road location. The venue now boasts 20 high-end gaming PCs alongside modern and legacy consoles, creating a perfect blend of nostalgia and cutting-edge technology.What truly distinguishes Reforge is their creative approach to the bar experience. Their signature "potions" – custom cocktails served in potion bottles – draw inspiration from gaming culture with names referencing invisibility, health, and stamina. The infamous Chaos Potion (a potent mix of absinthe, bourbon, and cranberry) is so powerful they limit customers to just one per visit. For special occasions like Star Wars Day, they craft themed drinks like Sith and Jedi cocktails that delight both casual visitors and die-hard gamers.Beyond commercial success, Reforge has become a community hub. They host the Military Magnets esports team, participate in Charleston Tech Week, and offer private events on Mondays and Tuesdays. Whether you're planning a birthday party, date night, or simply want to experience gaming in a social atmosphere, Reforge delivers an experience you won't find anywhere else in the Lowcountry.Ready to level up your night out? Visit Reforge Gaming Lounge Wednesday through Sunday at 8484 Dorchester Road in the Kusaw Village Shopping Center, and discover why gamers of all ages are making this Charleston's premier gaming destination.South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors.Support the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Ever wished you could clone yourself to handle all those repetitive business tasks? Matthew Grason of Level Up Video has made that dream a reality with revolutionary AI technology that creates digital twins indistinguishable from the real thing—in just six minutes of filming time.As our final guest at the bustling Dig South event, Matthew shared his fascinating journey from running a traditional video production company to pioneering AI clone technology. The breakthrough came when working with time-strapped medical professionals who found even streamlined video sessions too demanding. By harnessing AI, Matthew's team can now create perfect digital doppelgängers that "fool spouses and family members" while eliminating the need for repeated filming sessions.What sets this technology apart is its practical business application. Your AI clone can handle the tasks most professionals dread—lead generation, customer follow-ups, repetitive explanations, and consistent content creation. The clone can even be trained to become an expert in specific topics, speak different languages, and appear against any background. As Matthew perfectly summarized: "It takes the robot out of the person" by automating robotic tasks while preserving meaningful human connections. With 51 clones created since their February launch, Level Up Video is transforming how businesses communicate, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on what truly matters—the creative, strategic work that machines can't replicate.Ready to meet your digital twin? Visit LevelUpVideo.org or connect with Matthew Grason on LinkedIn to discover how six minutes of your time could forever change your approach to business communication. Could your AI clone become your most valuable team member?South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors.Support the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Nicole Farina never expected her spontaneous move to Charleston during the pandemic would transform her into one of the city's most recognized digital voices. What began as a simple notebook entry—"The Charleston Diaries: a storytelling platform"—evolved into a thriving social media presence with over 64,000 TikTok followers and 3.4 million likes.The magic of Farina's content lies in its authenticity. While many influencers were polishing their Instagram aesthetics, Nicole was filming weekend adventures on her phone, speaking directly to her audience through casual voiceovers. "Welcome to the Charleston Diaries," she'd say before taking viewers along to local restaurants, beach walks, and everyday moments that showcase Charleston's charm. This unfiltered approach resonated deeply, attracting not just tourists but locals and potential relocators who appreciated seeing the Lowcountry through a genuine lens.When followers began flooding her inbox asking how to make friends in Charleston, Farina recognized a community need and organized an event that sold hundreds of tickets within hours. This entrepreneurial spirit led her to expand beyond content creation into events, podcasting, and partnerships with local businesses. However, her journey hasn't been without challenges—including a cautionary tale about an influencer management company that scammed multiple Charleston crSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Blockchain technology is completely reshaping what we thought possible with land ownership and investment. Aaron Bumgarner, CEO and founder of Outside Global Incorporated, joins us to unpack how his company is pioneering the tokenization of land—transforming physical property into liquid, tradable digital assets that anyone can buy, sell, or trade on cryptocurrency exchanges.Aaron walks us through the revolutionary concept that's disrupting centuries-old property ownership models. By converting land deeds into fungible tokens that represent ownership stakes, landowners can now sell fractional interests of their property through platforms like Coinbase. Imagine selling just 5% of your home while retaining ownership of the rest—it's now possible. This creates unprecedented liquidity for traditionally illiquid real estate assets, democratizing access to property investment while generating new revenue streams for landowners.The story behind Outside Global is fascinating—born from Aaron's frustration trying to efficiently monetize land in Virginia and North Carolina. After seeing companies sell virtual "pretend land" in the metaverse for hundreds of millions, he applied similar principles to real property. Now focused on the Yakin-PD River Basin, where they own 1,000 acres including critical headwaters, the company partners with notable names like Hunt Broyhill of Broyhill Furniture and Eric Church's Whiskey brand. They're leveraging these properties for diverse revenue opportunities from carbon credits to conservation initiatives, all while building a technology platform enhanced with artificial intelligence to modernize the antiquated land investment industry.Ready to learn more about this groundbreaking intersection of blockchain and real estate? Connect with Outside GlobSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors.Support the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Doug Hamilton is revolutionizing Charleston's tech landscape through an unexpected lens: fatherhood. As founder of Charleston Hacks, Hamilton's mission grew from a deeply personal place – creating compelling reasons for his three teenage children to build their futures in the Lowcountry. Since 2023, he's been orchestrating hackathons that bridge technology, entrepreneurship, and creativity across Charleston.The LA transplant who arrived in 2006 brings together problem-solvers in intense, time-constrained collaborative sessions. "It's making something in whatever means necessary in a really short period of time," Hamilton explains, describing the hackathon concept that's become his organization's signature. Through partnerships with the College of Charleston, Charleston Tech Corridor, and even MIT, Charleston Hacks has launched innovative events including an AI Film Festival where participants created emotionally resonant 30-second films in just three hours.Charleston's accessibility forms the backbone of Hamilton's success. "Maybe in Charleston it'll take me 20 emails to get something going," he notes, contrasting with larger cities where connections prove more elusive. This June, Charleston Hacks launches Innovation Engine, connecting businesses facing challenges with creative problem-solvers. Software developers, project managers, and marketers can select problem statements that intrigue them, with winners receiving substantial cash prizes.Hamilton's balanced perspective on controversial technologies like AI reflects his philosophy: "You can't stick your head in the sand and say no, I don't like it." Instead, he advocates for hands-on experience, enabling informed opinions through direct engagement. When not running Charleston Hacks, he applies this innovative mindset South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors.Support the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Season three of the Charleston Marketing Podcast kicks off with a bang as hosts celebrate the show's growing success—nearly 2,500 downloads, with listeners tuning in from across the globe. What started as a local conversation has blossomed into a platform reaching marketing professionals in Singapore, Germany, and the UK, while maintaining strong listenership in Charleston, Mount Pleasant, and Charlotte.The podcast landscape is changing for this new season, with exciting partnerships taking center stage. The collaboration with Dig South, the region's premier tech conference, has yielded a wealth of mini-episodes featuring conversations with tech innovators from around the world. These episodes will drop between regular bi-monthly releases, resulting in fresh content every week. "The tech industry is such a big part of marketing's future," Stephanie notes. "If you're not utilizing Ai, you've missed the train."Perhaps most exciting is the podcast's mission to break down traditional silos between marketing organizations. In a rare move, the Charleston American Marketing Association is partnering with the American Advertising Federation to share events and resources. This collaborative spirit extends to the tech community as well, with plans to position the AMA as the go-to resource for marketing services within Charleston's thriving tech scene. Members will soon enjoy disSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Ever wondered what happens when you build a golf brand for people who care more about the beer cooler than their scorecard? Wes Loman, founder of The Salty Golfer, joins us from Dig South to share how he's created a thriving golf lifestyle brand that puts fun first.Founded in 2019, The Salty Golfer embodies a refreshingly casual approach to a traditionally stuffy sport. "We throw a party and golf gets in the way," Wes explains, describing how his brand appeals to golfers who might not make birdies or pars consistently but still want to look good on the links. Their most popular t-shirt bears the motto "Play fast because the ice is melting" – a nod to keeping pace so the beers stay cold, not because of any climate concerns.The brand has expanded beyond apparel to include "The Salty," a crushable 4.2% ABV pineapple blonde beer now available at prestigious locations like Kiawah Island and The Sanctuary. But what truly sets The Salty Golfer apart is their role as trusted insiders for the 86 golf courses along Myrtle Beach's Grand Strand. Wes and his team provide real-time feedback on course conditions, answer questions about aeration schedules, and often join groups that need an extra player – creating authentic connections with their community.Looking ahead, Wes revealed plans for an eight-episode series debunking ridiculous golf course reviews, including complaints about courses being "built backwards" because the sun gets in players' eyes. With partnerships with major equipment manufacturers and a growing presence across social media platforms, The Salty Golfer continues to redefine what golf culture can be – less uptight, more inclusive, and always ready for a good time.Ready to embrace the laid-back golf lifestyle? Follow The Salty Golfer on all social platforSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors.Support the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.What happens when your lifelong passion suddenly feels more like a burden? For Jennings King, the realization came in a moment of clarity while scrolling through Instagram—after 15 years of capturing wedding memories, she texted her marketing strategist: "weddings make me want to vomit." This brutally honest confession marked the beginning of a remarkable professional transformation.In this candid conversation, Jennings reveals how she pivoted from wedding photography to founding Spacemaker Professional, a business focused on creating physical, digital, and mental clarity through professional organizing. With marketing strategist Taylor Yeun by her side, Jennings details the emotional journey of walking away from a successful career and the strategic steps that made her transition both possible and profitable.The episode explores the surprising power of authenticity in business transitions, as Jennings managed to maintain her social media following despite completely changing her content focus. We dive deep into the emotional significance of her work, particularly in preserving family histories through digitizing photographs, slides, and even handwritten recipe cards—creating accessible digital libraries from boxes of deteriorating memories.For anyone contemplating a career change, Jennings offers practical wisdom: delegate to professionals, find your communiSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Kristina Chapple has a refreshing take on startup funding that might just transform venture capital as we know it. Fresh from raising $46 million for 11 Tribes Ventures second fund, she's on a mission that extends far beyond traditional investment metrics.While most VCs focus exclusively on financial outcomes, Kristina's team is pioneering a dual approach that places equal emphasis on what happens to the founders themselves. "What's the state of our founders' most precious relationships when they walk from their company?" she asks. "If they're married, are they still together with that spouse? If they have kids, do their kids know them? What's their health like—physical, mental, spiritual?" These questions reflect 11 Tribes' commitment to measuring and supporting what they call the "founder outcome," born from the team's personal experiences with the often devastating personal toll of entrepreneurship.This isn't just feel-good investing—it's strategic. Kristina believes that by dedicating resources to founders' wellbeing, the financial outcomes naturally follow. Her fund targets companies positioned for exits in the $75-300 million range, deliberately seeking founders who have been "haunted by a problem" rather than those who simply spot market opportunities. And instead of concentrating in traditional tech hubs, 11 Tribes is bringing capital to overlooked ecosystems like Charleston, Atlanta, Nashville, and Tulsa, where committed entrepreneurs are building solutions to problems they deeply understand.Kristina represents what she calls "a new wave of venture capital entering the market post-2020"—one that's more aligned with founders as whole people, not just veSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors.Support the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.What happens when two marketing professionals with complementary strengths join forces? In this candid conversation with Amber and Rachel of Matchstick Social, we explore the remarkable journey of a Charleston-based agency that's grown from a King Street startup to a thriving full-service marketing firm over the past 12 years.The duo shares how their partnership began with a late-night phone call from a steakhouse bathroom and a spontaneous decision that would change both their lives. Despite facing the challenge of geographic separation when Amber moved to Oklahoma for five years, their business persevered through what they describe as "two steps forward, one step back" until reuniting in Charleston reignited their momentum.What truly stands out is their refreshing perspective on Charleston's marketing community. Rather than viewing other agencies as competition, they celebrate collaboration, resource-sharing, and mutual support. "If you raise your rate, I can raise my rate," they explain, highlighting how elevating industry standards benefits everyone. This philosophy extends to their approach with clients—evolving from selling services to finding the right fit, creating partnerships rather than transactions.The conversation takes fascinating turns through discussions of AI in marketing (a tool, not a replacement for creativity), balancing motherhood with eSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Have you ever wondered who actually controls the internet? Or how standards like email and web protocols come to be? The Charleston Marketing Podcast dives deep into this fascinating world with special guest Thomas McCarthy-Howe, co-author of a groundbreaking new internet standard called Virtual Conversations.Broadcasting live from Dig South in Charleston, hosts Mike and Stephanie discover how this first-ever AI standard aims to solve one of technology's most pressing challenges: making conversation data useful for analysis while protecting individual privacy rights. Thomas explains how his work with the Internet Society—a global organization of engineers, government officials, and human rights advocates—is creating a file format that enables companies to analyze conversations while simultaneously allowing individuals to exercise their digital rights.The conversation reveals surprising insights about the Internet Engineering Task Force, where a thousand brilliant minds from companies like Cisco, Microsoft, Google, and Mozilla collaborate as individuals, giving up their intellectual property rights for the greater good. As Thomas puts it, "The most dangerous place in tech is the microphone at an IETF conference." With equal parts technical expertise and warm humor, he demystifies how these standards are created and why they matter for everyone who uses digital technology.Perhaps most compelling is the discussion of practical applications—from preventing deepfakes by verifying authentic conversations to enabling individuals to access, correct, and delete their data from companies. His passion for digital rights is evident as he explains why protecting biometric data like voice recordings is particularly crucial: South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors.Support the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Meet Ada Pasternak, a musical force whose extraordinary journey defies conventional paths. Born in Moscow to musician parents and raised on the East Coast, Ada's early life as a violin prodigy took an unexpected turn when debilitating tendonitis threatened to end her musical career entirely. What followed wasn't defeat but a remarkable reinvention.During our conversation, Ada reveals the pivotal moment when—encouraged by her mother's intuition—she applied to Berklee College of Music minutes before the deadline and earned a full scholarship despite not having played violin for years. This turning point opened a world beyond classical music, as Ada discovered her voice as a singer-songwriter and expanded her repertoire to include folk, pop, jazz, and country influences. Her collaborations with Postmodern Jukebox launched her Los Angeles career before Nashville beckoned with its rich songwriting community.What truly sets Ada apart isn't just her versatility across musical genres or her mastery of violin, voice, and songwriting—it's her profound commitment to using music as a vehicle for connection and healing. Her newly established nonprofit, "Ada's Gift of Music," brings musical experiences to children in hospitals and underserved communities, reflecting her belief that music's true power lies in its ability to transform lives. During her first visit to Charleston, she iSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Rob Concannon's journey from hockey player to president of the South Carolina Stingrays is a testament to Charleston's magnetic pull. After arriving in 1995 as a player for the Stingrays, a friend's prophetic words—"if you go to Charleston, you will never move home"—proved remarkably accurate. Nearly three decades later, Rob has transformed from a "mouthy" left-winger to the visionary leader behind the Stingrays' remarkable success.The conversation reveals how the Stingrays have mastered the art of sports marketing in a competitive landscape. Rob explains their creative approach to themed promotional nights, from Star Wars extravaganzas to Bluey appearances that draw thousands of families who might not otherwise attend hockey games. "In minor league sports," he notes, "you have to become creative in terms of attracting fans." This strategy has paid dividends as attendance soars and community excitement builds around the team's record-breaking season—52 wins, 109 points, and the prestigious Bradham Cup as regular-season champions.Community engagement emerges as the heartbeat of the Stingrays' organization. The team's commitment to "Tikamolam"—repairing the world—manifests through their "Community Assist of the Game" program supporting local nonprofits, school visits, reading programs, and countless other initiatives that forge meaningful connections throughout the LowcoSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Ever wondered what happens when innovative minds tackle agricultural waste? Meet Tom Bessell, co-founder of ALBON, who's revolutionizing how we think about wastewater and soil health.Tom joins us from Dig South to share his startup's groundbreaking approach to environmental challenges. Albon has developed proprietary photobioreactors that harness microalgae's natural ability to clean agricultural wastewater. The process removes phosphorus, nitrogen, and grease from contaminated water while simultaneously capturing atmospheric carbon. But the innovation doesn't stop there - the nutrient-rich algae is transformed through pyrolysis into biochar, a powerful soil amendment that helps farmers improve crop yields and water retention naturally.What makes this technology particularly fascinating is its circular nature. The dirtier the wastewater, the faster the algae grows and the more nutrient-dense the resulting biochar becomes. It's a perfect example of turning a problem into an opportunity. Tom explains how their technology can help revitalize over-farmed soils by reactivating natural carbon cycles that industrial agriculture has disrupted. Currently piloting with the Sydney local government, Albon is eyeing future expansion into meat and dairy processing facilities where wastewater is especially nutrient-rich.Tom's entrepreneurial journey offers valuable lessons in adaptation. What began as a carbon capture concept in late 2023 evolved into their current wastewater treatment model after the initial approach proved impractical. This pivot demonstrates how environmental innovation often requires flexibility and responsiveness to real-world constraints. Follow South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors.Support the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.What if your tax dollars could directly fund life-saving innovations happening right in your backyard? For South Carolinians, this isn't just a possibility—it's a reality through the South Carolina Research Authority.Adrianne Grimes, Director of Marketing and Communications at SCRA, joins the Charleston Marketing Podcast to pull back the curtain on how this unique organization is transforming healthcare, manufacturing, and technology across the state. Despite its name, SCRA doesn't conduct research—they fund and support the brilliant minds who do, ensuring groundbreaking innovations actually make it to market.From a device helping premature babies learn to feed properly to 3D imaging technology revolutionizing cancer diagnosis, the innovations supported by SCRA solve real human problems. The organization maintains six innovation centers across South Carolina, providing specialized facilities for researchers and tech startups who might otherwise leave the state. The impact is measurable—jobs supported by SCRA typically pay 72% higher than the state average.What makes Adrianne's perspective particularly fascinating is her own remarkable career journey. Before championing innovation at SCRA, she managed communications for Tim Scott's first congressional campaign, rolled out the Affordable Care Act across two states, and advocated for telehealth solutions in ruraSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Artificial intelligence isn't just for tech giants anymore. Two Charleston-based entrepreneurs are proving that small businesses and traditional industries can harness AI's power to compete at unprecedented levels.Meet Tanqueray Edwards, owner of TR Edwards Consultancy, who specializes in empowering small to mid-sized businesses with strategic AI solutions. Her mission resonates deeply in South Carolina, where small businesses constitute approximately 94% of the state's economy. Rather than approaching AI as a blanket solution, Edwards works closely with clients to identify specific pain points and develop customized digital roadmaps that align with their business objectives. The results speak volumes – some clients report productivity gains equivalent to adding 2.5 full-time employees through strategic AI implementation.Alongside her sits Susannah Dellinger, CEO and founder of Bright Beauty Collective, who's revolutionizing how beauty brands enter major retailers like Sephora and Ulta across North America. Beyond her agency work, Dellinger demonstrates how business success and social responsibility can intertwine beautifully. Her company partners with One World Health to support healthcare initiatives, including underwriting Uganda's first neonatal center. As if running a successful beauty agency weren't enough, Dellinger also recently launched "fieldly," an innovative app that transforms field marketing management for brands.Both entrepreneurs challenge the common fear that AI will replace human workers. Instead, they view artificial South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors.Support the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.What happens when an award-winning mixologist discovers that the secret ingredient to winning competitions isn’t just in the drink—it’s in the story? Morgan Hurley, former Marketing and Beverage Director for MEX 1 Coastal Cantina and founder of Swell Marketing & Consulting, joins us to share how his journey through Charleston’s vibrant hospitality scene led him to launch his own marketing consultancy after 13 years of building one of the city’s most distinctive restaurant brands.Growing up in the hospitality industry with a father who founded the iconic Jack's Cosmic Dogs, Morgan developed an intuitive understanding of what makes customers tick. His philosophy—that stories sell—emerged from his days competing in mixology competitions where he realized a great drink wasn't enough without a compelling narrative behind it. This revelation became the foundation for marketing strategies that consistently pushed boundaries, from bringing 50,000 pounds of snow to Charleston beaches for an annual snowboard competition to serving cocktails in branded coconuts that had festival-goers (including Al Roker) clamoring for photo opportunities.Morgan shares invaluable insights about navigating today's attention-based economy, where traditional polished marketing often falls flat compared to authentic, entertaining content. His peSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Justin Allen's journey from commercial actor to award-winning director and producer exemplifies the creative evolution happening in Charleston's growing production landscape. As President of Butter, an acclaimed commercial production company, Justin brings Hollywood-caliber experience to clients seeking to elevate their brand presence through compelling visual storytelling.Having worked on major productions like Mad Men and collaborated with actor Zach Levi developing shows for networks like NBC, Justin's decision to relocate to Charleston represents a growing trend of creative professionals choosing the Lowcountry for its perfect balance of opportunity and lifestyle. His experience in television development—where hundreds of show concepts compete for just a handful of production slots—taught him resilience and the importance of authentic storytelling, skills he now applies to creating impactful commercials.The conversation reveals how Connected TV (CTV) advertising has revolutionized video marketing, transforming what was once an exclusive playground for major corporations with six-figure budgets into an accessible channel for businesses of all sizes. With viewers spending three times more time on CTV platforms than social media apps and unable to skip ads, this emerging channel offers unprecedented engagement opportunities. Justin explains how his team creates televiSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Stanfield Gray, founder and CEO of Dig South, joins the Charleston Marketing Podcast to share his remarkable journey building the Southeast's premier tech ecosystem. As the visionary behind what he calls "the South's tech tribe," Gray reveals how Dig South has evolved over 13 years into a powerful connector of innovators, entrepreneurs, and investors.With an infectious energy that matches his ambition, Gray breaks down his "three C's" framework—content, contacts, and capital—that forms the backbone of the Dig South experience. Rather than simply hosting speakers, Dig South creates a comprehensive ecosystem where attendees gain valuable knowledge, build meaningful relationships, and access funding opportunities. His membership model, Dignation, keeps the community engaged year-round, fostering connections that transcend the two-day summit.What makes Gray's perspective particularly fascinating is his unconventional path into technology. Beginning in the music industry at Spin Magazine and working with recording studios, he witnessed the digital transformation of creative industries firsthand. This experience shaped his philosophy that technology and creativity work in tandem rather than isolation—"you wouldn't have Spotify if there wasn't great music to distribute via the platform."Beyond Dig South, Gray shares insights from his other ventures, including MoveFlSouth Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.A credit union that feels more like a sports car brand than a financial institution? That's exactly what Shelly Puckett and the team at REV Credit Union have created through their bold, purpose-driven approach to banking in Charleston.Puckett, REV's Director of Brand Marketing, takes us behind the scenes of one of Charleston's most successful rebrands, transforming the traditional Heritage Trust into the dynamic community powerhouse known as REV. Born and raised in Charleston, Puckett joined the organization in 2019 and quickly found herself at the table for a complete brand overhaul alongside CEO Jason Lee. The timing couldn't have been more challenging—launching in March 2020 as COVID-19 emerged—but their "atom bomb" billboard strategy flooded Charleston with their new identity and set the stage for remarkable growth.What makes REV stand out isn't just their vibrant teal branding or memorable name (which stands for forward momentum, not an acronym). It's their foundational philosophy of "banking with purpose" that drives everything they do. Through their Up the Good Foundation, REV focuses on creating resilient communities by supporting health initiatives, inclusivity programs, and financial education. Their team has already contributed over 10,000 volunteer hours, reaching their five-year goal a year early. Now they're targeting 30,000 hours for the next five years South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...

How are we doing? Who do you want to learn from next? Text us with notes and ideas.Join us for an engaging episode of the Charleston Marketing Podcast, where we explore the vibrant local business landscape shaped by organizations like Lowcountry Local First. Our guests Mara Fields and Emma Giglio share personal stories and professional insights on the importance of community-driven initiatives and the role of local ownership in economic prosperity. This episode highlights the upcoming Good Business Summit, a gathering designed to encourage meaningful discussions and empower businesses with the tools they need for success. We delve into how AI is transforming marketing strategies for small and medium-sized businesses, discussing practical approaches that can level the playing field with larger competitors. Our guests also reflect on the unique charm of Charleston, the close-knit community that inspires collaboration, and the shared vision of building a thriving business ecosystem. If you're looking to deepen your understanding of local engagement and want to discover innovative ways to leverage technology for growth, this episode is an essential listen. Don't forget to subscribe for more insights and share your thoughts with us!South Carolina Research Authority (SCRA) is a public, nonprofit organization that fuels South Carolina’s innovation economy by supporting technology-based startups, academic research, and industry partnerships. Through funding, coaching, and its investment arm SC Launch, SCRA helps early-stage companies grow, commercialize ideas, and scale within the state’s key innovation sectors. King & Columbus is a full-service marketing and advertising agency based in South Carolina that helps brands grow through a mix of creative storytelling and data-driven strategy. They offer everything from branding and content creation to media planning, digital advertising, and PR—focused on delivering measurable results across digital, social, and traditional channels. https://kingandcolumbus.comSupport the showTitle Sponsor: Charleston American Marketing AssociationPresenting Sponsor: Charleston Media SolutionsAnnual Sponsor: ‪SCRA; South Carolina Research AuthorityQuarterly Sponsor: King and ColumbusCAMACast Cohosts: Stephanie Barrow, Mike Compton, Rachel Backal, Tom Keppeler, Amanda Bunting Comen, Silicon Harbor Hot Take Host: Stanfield Gray, https://digsouth.comProduced and edited: RMBO AdvertisingPhotographer | Co-host: Kelli MorseScore by:  The Strawberry Entrée; Jerry Feels Good, CURRYSAUCE, DBLCRWN, DJ DollaMenuStudio Engineer: Brian Cleary and Mathew ChaseYouTube...