YES, BRAND with Hersh Rephun

In this episode of YES, BRAND, Hersh Rephun sits down with certified brand strategist and neuromarketing expert Nicole Powell, founder of Halcon Marketing Solutions, to talk about what’s broken in modern marketing and why brand strategy still matters.Born in Manila and raised in the Bronx before eventually settling in St. Louis, Nicole brings a unique blend of big-brand experience and entrepreneurial perspective. After working with powerhouse companies like Viacom, ESPN, and Fox, she shifted her focus toward helping small and midsize businesses build brands with actual substance, not just visibility.Hersh’s conversation with Nicole explores the disconnect between marketing tactics and meaningful messaging, and why too many businesses mistake ads, logos, and social media for brand identity.They dive into:Why marketing without strategy burns money instead of building trustThe gap between “having a logo” and actually having a brandHow big brands create consistency across every touchpointWhy burnout and pressure culture hurt creativityThe role of neuroscience and psychology in brandingAnd how motherhood reshaped Nicole’s definition of successNicole also opens up about her own winding career path, from on-camera work in Los Angeles to building an agency rooted in values, partnership, and long-term brand development.Grounded, insightful, and refreshingly honest, this episode is a reminder that the strongest brands aren’t built from tactics first. They’re built from clarity.--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

We don't buy products. We buy what they represent.In this episode, Hersh sits down with Daniel Trujillo, founder of Miami Links, to talk about what it actually means to build something that carries weight beyond the surface.Dan grew up in a first-generation Cuban family in Miami, where Cuban link chains weren’t just accessories. They marked milestones. They held stories. They got passed down.After serving as a Marine, he came back to Miami and turned that legacy into a business. Not by chasing trends, but by staying close to what mattered in the first place.We get into:The difference between something that looks good and something that means somethingWhy sentiment beats price every timeHow his grandfather’s bracelet became the spark behind the entire brandWhat it really takes to build a business online when no one knows who you are yetWhy most brands miss the emotional layer that actually drives decisionsHow confidence, identity, and style all tie together in ways people don’t talk aboutThis isn’t a conversation about jewelry.It’s about what people hold onto—and why.Here’s more information about Dan:Website: https://miamilinks.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/miamilinks/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/miamilinks/--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

In this episode of YES, BRAND, Hersh Rephun sits down with Zac Stucki, founder of IgnitionPoint Strategies, to unpack a fundamental flaw in how businesses think about their customers.What starts with a hilarious grocery store story quickly turns into a powerful framework. Zac challenges the idea that “the customer” is a single person, introducing a three-part ecosystem: the payer, the decider, and the user. Most companies, he explains, are talking to the wrong one and burning time, money, and momentum as a result.Hersh’s conversation with Zac digs into how this misunderstanding stalls growth, why companies plateau between two and five million, and how early adopters are often mistaken for scalable markets. Zac shares real-world examples, including how shifting focus in a struggling medical practice led to 40% year-over-year growth.If your sales feel slow, your messaging isn’t landing, or your growth has stalled, this episode will challenge how you think about your audience and show you exactly where things are breaking down.More about Zac: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachary-stucki/--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

In this episode of YES, BRAND, Hersh Rephun sits down with Kirsten Graham, a business strategist who helps entrepreneurs reclaim their time, sharpen their visibility, and finally stop trying to do everything themselves.Kirsten shares how her journey from running a mortgage company led to building systems that combine strategic marketing, podcasting, and specialized virtual assistants to help business owners grow without burning out. The conversation dives into the myth of the “do-it-all entrepreneur,” the dangers of hiring generalists instead of specialists, and why so many founders struggle with finances simply because they avoid them.Hersh and Kirsten also explore the deeper mindset blocks around money, delegation, and control, and why clarity in your brand and messaging should come before launching things like podcasts or content channels.If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by all the hats you’re wearing or wondered why your business isn’t scaling the way you expected, this episode is a wake-up call and a roadmap.check out Kirsten’s masterclass here:http://lessmathmoremoney.com/we would love to invite you to become an affiliate. Together we can help more entrepreneurs gain clarity around their finances and build stronger businesses.Here is the link if you’d like to learn more:https://loveyourprofit.com/join-lyp-affiliateIf you’re not already connected with Kirsten on LinkedIn, here’s her profile.--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

In this episode of YES, BRAND, Hersh Rephun sits down with bestselling author and influence expert Christian Hansen to unpack a question that sits at the heart of every brand: why do some people get chosen… while others get overlooked?Drawing from years spent in university admissions, corporate environments, and high-stakes decision-making rooms, Christian has studied what actually moves people to say “yes.” And the answer isn’t what most people think.Hersh’s conversation with Christian explores the subtle but powerful shift from trying to prove your value… to shaping how that value is perceived.They dive into:Why people don’t choose you—they choose their perception of youThe hidden role of language in shaping influenceHow relatability beats “being impressive” every timeThe difference between confidence in yourself vs. confidence in othersAnd why insight is far more valuable than experienceChristian also shares practical frameworks from The Influence Mindset, including simple ways to reframe conversations so they actually resonate with how people think and decide.If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing everything right but still not getting chosen, this episode will challenge how you communicate, position, and show up.https://www.thechristianhansen.com/--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

In this episode of YES, BRAND, Hersh Rephun sits down with Lori Asbury, founder of CMO Co, to talk about what it really takes to build, scale, and sustain a marketing agency in a constantly shifting landscape.With over 25 years in media, branding, and marketing leadership, including senior roles at HGTV, Lori brings a rare blend of corporate experience and entrepreneurial grit. But her journey wasn’t linear. After a corporate reorganization forced her out of a high-level role, she made a pivotal decision to stay rooted for her family and build something on her own terms.Hersh’s conversation with Lori dives into that transition, from leading large internal teams at billion-dollar brands to creating a fractional CMO model that gives growing businesses high-level strategy without the full-time overhead.They explore:The evolution from corporate leadership to entrepreneurshipWhy most companies misunderstand what marketing actually requiresThe gap between strategy and execution and how to close itHow CMO Co became both a strategic partner and execution engineAnd why even marketing experts need to step back and brand themselvesLori also shares candid insights on growth, adaptability, and the importance of staying relentlessly committed to your craft, even when the plan changes.For founders, marketers, and agency owners, this episode is a grounded look at building something sustainable, scalable, and actually effective.https://cmoco.com--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

Award-winning and bestselling author Aaron Ryan joins YES, BRAND to talk storytelling, creativity, and the imagination behind his prolific body of work.Based in Washington with his wife, two sons, and a lively mix of pets, Aaron has written nearly 40 books across genres, from sci-fi thrillers and dystopian sagas to children’s stories and faith-driven narratives. His titles include the bestselling Dissonance alien invasion series, the Christian dystopian saga The End, and standalones like Forecast, The Phoenix Experiment, and The Slide.But the story behind the stories starts much earlier.Aaron’s creative journey began in second grade with a short story called The Electric Boy, a spark that turned into a lifelong calling. Since then, he’s built a multifaceted creative life as an author, musician, voiceover artist, performer, and producer, all rooted in a deep curiosity about the human experience.In this conversation, Hersh and Aaron explore:How ideas evolve from simple sparks into expansive story worldsWhy the best stories balance imagination with human truthThe difference between planning a story and discovering it as you goHow faith and creativity intersect in meaningful waysAnd why validation has nothing to do with creative momentumAaron also shares how his “organic” approach to writing led to building entire universes, including the ever-expanding Dissonance saga, and why storytelling, at its core, is about more than plot. It’s about connection, meaning, and the courage to create without waiting for permission.For anyone building a creative brand or trying to stay true to their voice, this episode is both grounding and energizing.https://authoraaronryan.com/--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

In this episode of the YES BRAND Podcast, Hersh Rephun sits down with Rob Harrison, a British military veteran turned sales entrepreneur and founder of Magnified Academy.After 12 years in the military, Rob faced a crossroads familiar to many veterans: follow the expected path into structured employment or take a leap into the unknown. Choosing freedom over familiarity, he built a new life in the Caribbean and discovered a passion for sales, not as persuasion, but as empowerment.Rob shares how the military conditions individuals to become “perfect employees” and why that mindset can limit entrepreneurial potential after service. He opens up about the shock of early military training, the challenges of reintegration into civilian life, and the moment he realized he wanted more autonomy, flexibility, and control over his future.The conversation explores how sales can become a gateway to location freedom, financial independence, and self-determination. Rob breaks down how he trains individuals, especially those with no prior experience, to become confident closers while helping businesses scale through remote sales teams.This episode is a powerful look at identity, conditioning, and what it really means to take ownership of your life after following orders for years.https://magnifyde.io/--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

In this episode of the YES BRAND Podcast, Hersh Rephun sits down with Amanda Johnson, also known as the “Story Oracle,” to explore the transformative power of storytelling in personal branding, healing, and human connection.Amanda shares how she helps individuals uncover their “sacred code” by examining both the magic and the mess of their life experiences. Through story literacy and narrative medicine, she empowers people to reclaim hidden parts of their story, build emotional awareness, and express their truth in a way that resonates deeply with others.The conversation dives into the role of storytelling in childhood development, parenting, and identity formation, as well as the dangers of outsourcing one’s voice through ghostwriting or AI without doing the internal work. Hersh and Amanda also unpack how stories shape belief systems, the importance of earning your message, and why letting ideas “die on the page” is essential for authentic leadership.From The Matrix to The Hunger Games, they explore how popular stories can act as mirrors for our own lives, offering insight, healing, and a pathway to more intentional living.This episode is a powerful reminder that your story is not just something to tell—it’s something to understand, wrestle with, and ultimately, own.https://the-story-oracle.com/--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

On this episode of YES, BRAND, Hersh Rephun sits down with Anna VanAgtmael, founder of Wandering Roots, a company that hosts adventure retreats for women around the world and helps entrepreneurs create profitable retreats of their own.Anna’s path didn’t start with wanderlust. She built a successful 13-year career in molecular diagnostics, even helping launch a lab from the ground up. But after a major health scare forced her to pause, she began questioning everything, from her work to how she wanted to spend her life.What followed wasn’t a reckless leap, but a calculated pivot. She built her retreat business on the side, tested the model locally, and created enough stability to eventually walk away from her career… just in time for the world to shut down in 2020.Instead of retreating, she doubled down.In this conversation, Hersh and Anna explore what it really takes to pivot into something more aligned, how to build a business around experiences, and why clarity often comes from doing, not waiting.They also dig into:Why belief in yourself is the real starting pointThe difference between a passion project and a sustainable businessHow to build something new without burning everything downThe role of “why” in making hard decisionsAnd what it looks like to create roots while still wanderingFor anyone sitting on the edge of a big change, this episode offers both perspective and a push.https://www.yourwanderingroots.com/--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

Ideas are cheap. Execution is where things get real.On this episode of YES, BRAND, Hersh Rephun sits down with Vladimir Baronov, executive coach to founders and technical leaders, and a three-time founder with exits in fintech and spacetech.Vladimir lives at the intersection most people avoid:business vs. technicalstrategy vs. executionthinking vs. doingHe’s built companies from zero to one, scaled them, exited them, and now helps founders and execs make better decisions when the stakes are high and the answers aren’t obvious.This conversation dives into:Why credentials don’t mean anything until you activate themThe real difference between coaching and consultingHow founders get stuck in their own thinking loopsWhy asking better questions beats having better answersAnd how to build a personal brand when you are the productIf you’re building, scaling, or second-guessing your next move… this one will challenge you in the best way.https://www.linkedin.com/in/vladimirbaranov/ --Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

Ron Netanel joins Hersh Rephun to break down what it really means to “think like a big brand” and why most entrepreneurs are playing the wrong game.Drawing on decades inside eight-figure and billion-dollar companies, Ron explains the critical shift from small business tactics to big brand strategy. He unpacks the difference between branding, marketing, and advertising, and why confusing them stalls growth.The conversation hits on brand humanization, founder identity versus brand identity, and the hidden advantage smaller companies have over enterprise giants. Ron also shares how to reverse engineer growth through clear milestones, and why awareness, not just exposure, is the real currency of authority.At its core, this episode is about mindset. Not spending more, but thinking better. Not chasing tactics, but building a brand that earns loyalty, trust, and long-term demand.https://idealogicbrandlab.com/Courtesy of Ron, get your Brand Shift Code Guide here: https://brandshiftcode.com/ --Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

Union of insight and execution. No fluff. Just better systems.On this episode of YES, BRAND, Hersh Rephun sits down with process and systems expert Errol Allen, a former corporate insider who made a bold move at 53 to bet on himself and build a consulting business rooted in clarity, structure, and results.Errol doesn’t chase shiny strategies. He fixes what’s actually broken.From ADT to GEICO to launching his own firm, he’s spent 25+ years inside the machine, learning how people, processes, and technology either align… or create chaos.This conversation gets real about:Walking away from “safe” when you know there’s moreWhy most businesses are running on invisible, broken processesThe power of mastering fundamentals before chasing innovationBuilding a business without obsessing over competitorsAnd what it really means to “get out of the boat”If your business feels messy, stuck, or overly complicated, this one will hit.--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

This week on the YES, BRAND Podcast, Hersh Rephun sits down with Leahanne Hobson, and let’s just say…this one covers ground.Leahanne has led strategy for heavyweights like IBM, Avaya, and Lucent, and went on to found Alinea Partners, now a top global channel consultancy helping companies navigate AI, security, and constant market change.But this isn’t just about big logos and big tech.It’s about what actually builds a brand that lasts.Leahanne breaks down the difference between “position power” and “people power” and why the latter is what really moves the needle. Translation: your title might open a door, but your relationships keep it open.They also get into:• Why networking is not a phase, it is a practice• The moment your corporate identity disappears and your real brand shows up• Turning expertise into scalable, productized services• What AI actually means in the real world, not the hype version• Rethinking success from “world domination” to a life you actually wantAnd maybe the simplest truth in the episode:If you want in, you have to participate.Not someday. Not when it’s convenient. Now.Because brand, like life, does not pick you. You show up and build it.🎧 Smart, grounded, and refreshingly honest, this one’s for anyone navigating growth without losing themselves in the process.https://alinea-partners.com/--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

AC² — Building a Business, a Brand, and a Family LegacyIn this episode of YES, BRAND, Hersh Rephun sits down with sisters Amoura and Avery Carter, better known as AC², founders of AC Creative Collective.From the jump, it’s clear this is more than a business story. It’s about trust, timing, and the decision to bet on yourself, and each other.Amoura brings the structure. With a background in education and project management, she believes great outcomes start with great planning. Avery brings the creative firepower, a decade-plus in marketing and design across nonprofit, B2B, and corporate spaces.Together, they’ve built a business that lives in the space where strategy meets execution. Not theory. Not fluff. Work that actually moves.Hersh’s conversation with the sisters gets into what it really takes to build something from the ground up, especially as a family. They unpack the realities of growth, the tension between stability and entrepreneurship, and the ongoing challenge of defining your brand while you’re still building it.There’s also a clear throughline: community matters. Whether it’s supporting women creatives, grounding their work locally in Charlotte, or creating space for other founders to grow, AC Creative Collective isn’t just about deliverables. It’s about building something that lasts.And yes, they’re doing it together, which adds both a safety net and a whole new level of accountability.What they get into:How AC Creative Collective came to life and why timing matteredThe power of combining strategy (Amoura) with creative execution (Avery)Why most businesses skip the planning step and pay for it laterThe evolution from services to deeper program management workDefining your ideal client based on what actually lights you upThe realities of entrepreneurship vs. the illusion of “stable” careersBuilding a women-led team and supporting flexibility in real lifeWhy local community still matters in a digital worldTaking a strategic pause to reassess, rebrand, and growThe takeaway:You don’t build a strong brand by staying busy.You build it by stopping long enough to decide what actually matters.Find AC Creative Collective:https://www.accreativecollective.com/--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

This episode? It’s not about dogs.It’s about trust, protection, and what it really means to feel safe in your own life.Meet Graham Bloem. South African-born. Straight-talking. Zero fluff.Founder of Specialty Dog Training®, where “man’s best friend” gets an upgrade to “family’s first line of defense.”With 25+ years in the game and $20+ million in revenue, Graham isn’t training pets.He’s building elite protection partners for high-level families, executives, and public figures worldwide.We’re talking about dogs trained to read energy, assess threats, and act with precision.Not chaos. Not aggression. Control.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeHow Graham Bloem went from South African animal lover to founder of a $20M elite dog training companyWhy most dog behavior issues are actually bad matchmaking problemsThe real factors behind choosing the right dog: lifestyle, energy, environment, and expectationsThe difference between a family pet, a deterrent dog, and a fully trained protection dogWhat goes into elite protection dog training including bloodlines, temperament, and advanced conditioningHow bonding and handler training turn a trained dog into a trusted family protectorThe truth about dog marking behavior and practical ways to fix itHow to build a premium, trust-driven brand in a competitive nicheWhy every interaction is an impression that can lead to long-term business growthThe role of authenticity, heart, and service in scaling a values-based companyHow dogs read human energy, emotion, and behavior often better than we read ourselvesIt’s part business. Part philosophy. Part “wow, I didn’t know dogs could do THAT.”Bottom line:This episode isn’t about selling protection.It’s about understanding it.And once you do… you’ll never look at a “good dog” the same way again.--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

What do you do when your hometown is wiped out… and hope goes with it?If you’re Ron Ladner, you build a restaurant.Not because it’s a smart business move.Because your community needs a place to feel human again.Ron grew up on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, cut his teeth in software, built and sold a company… and then came home.After Hurricane Katrina, he and his wife Laura opened Shaggy’s. Not just as a restaurant, but as a gathering place for healing, connection, and joy.What started as one location is now:5 restaurants450 team members1M+ guests served annuallyBut here’s the twist…Ron never set out to build a restaurant empire.He set out to make people feel better when they walked out than when they walked in.And somehow, that became the business model.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhy focusing only on what you can control is Ron’s foundation for life and businessHow growing up with less fueled his drive for freedom, not just moneyWhy impatience can actually be a competitive advantage when used rightThe moment Ron realized: if you do things like everyone else, you get average resultsHow Shaggy’s reinvented restaurant service with a team-based, high-efficiency modelThe real reason most businesses fail at culture and what it actually takes to build one that lastsWhy employee experience drives customer experience, not the other way aroundHow Shaggy’s turned restaurant jobs into real careers with 3-year average tenureWhat people are really responding to in Ron’s bestselling book: honesty, humility, and zero filterWhy finding someone to replace you and do it better might be the ultimate entrepreneurial winThe Bigger IdeaWe talk a lot about scaling.About growth.About building something “big.”Ron flips that.Build something meaningful first.Make people feel seen, valued, and taken care of.Do that consistently…and growth takes care of itself.Where to Find Ron & Shaggy’s🌐 https://shaggys.com/Closing ThoughtYou can chase success.Or you can build something people actually feel.One of those scales faster than you think.--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

In 2006, our guest’s son was diagnosed with Aplastic Anemia. After remission, a second diagnosis, PNH, led to a bone marrow transplant. In the middle of it all, Make-A-Wish sent their family to Scotland to play The Old Course. That trip became more than a memory. It became a lifeline.During treatment, her son and husband would mentally replay every shot from that trip to get through the pain. That moment sparked something lasting: a desire to give back.Then, just as her son was declared cured, she was diagnosed with breast cancer.After beating cancer herself, she became a wish grantor with Make-A-Wish San Diego. Inspired by her first wish child and her own healing journey, she created a CBD salve to ease a young boy’s discomfort. That single act grew into Budding Botanicals, a natural wellness brand built on relief, education, and purpose.Today, her son is pursuing his dream of becoming a professional golfer, and she leads a thriving business grounded in gratitude and impact.In this episode:Turning hardship into purposeThe power of memory and mindset in healingBuilding a mission-driven brand from lived experienceA quick note from Hersh:Since recording, he’s become a big fan of Budding Botanicals and its products. Not a client. Not a sponsor. Just the truth.https://www.matchmaker.fm/show-guest/dawn-norby-1144d5https://www.buddingbotanicalsca.com/contact--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

Christian Ray Flores has lived several lifetimes in one.From growing up as a refugee in Chile to becoming a pop superstar in Eastern Europe, Christian’s journey spans continents, industries, and reinventions. Today he is a high-performance coach, entrepreneur, media founder, and philanthropist helping leaders pursue success that actually means something.In this conversation, Christian shares how resilience, purpose, and disciplined habits shaped his path from global music stages to boardrooms and coaching sessions with founders, executives, and creatives seeking sustained peak performance.With a master’s degree in economics and fluency in four languages, Christian has built startups, raised millions for business and mission-driven ventures, and co-founded Third Drive Media, producing content designed to move audiences and fuel innovation. Through Xponential, his coaching and advisory work helps high achievers align success with significance.He is also the host of the Headspace by Christian Ray Flores podcast and the author of Little Book of Big Reasons to Love America, where he explores leadership, mindset, and the habits that shape extraordinary lives.In this episode of the YES, BRAND Podcast, we talk about reinvention, the power of purpose-driven leadership, and why the most meaningful success is built from the inside out.https://www.xponential.life/--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

In this energetic conversation on the YES, BRAND Podcast, Hersh sits down with Nadja Fromm, Corporate Breakup Coach and Startup Strategist, to talk about what it really takes to leave the 9-to-5 behind and build a business that reflects who you are and how you want to live.With more than 20 years of experience helping professionals navigate career transitions, Nadja has made it her mission to help people walk away from burnout and into bold, freedom-fueled entrepreneurship. Her approach is direct, practical, and refreshingly honest. No corporate jargon. No endless planning cycles. Just the mindset, clarity, and strategy needed to stop spinning and start building.In her work, Nadja encourages clients to think of leaving a corporate job as a “corporate breakup.” And just like any breakup, it can be painful, confusing, and even a little scary. But it can also be the catalyst for reinvention.As Nadja puts it, the old idea of getting a revenge body after a breakup is outdated. Today, the real glow-up is building your own “revenge business.”Throughout the conversation, Hersh and Nadja explore the courage it takes to rewrite your professional story, why burnout is often a signal rather than a failure, and how stepping away from the expected path can unlock a level of freedom and creativity many professionals never thought possible.Nadja brings contagious energy to the conversation, acting as the ultimate cheerleader for people ready to stop waiting for permission and start designing a career that works for them.This episode is for anyone who feels the pull toward entrepreneurship but has been told to stay safe, stay small, or stay put.Sometimes the boldest brand move you can make is choosing yourself.--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

What if the very thing capping your income, confidence, and impact isn’t strategy… but something you learned at seven years old?In this episode of the YES, BRAND Podcast, Hersh sits down with Curtis McCullom, mindset strategist and creator of the LGET Mindset™ framework: Learn, Grow, Expand, Transform.Curtis works with CEOs, founders, and entrepreneurs who are successful on paper but still hitting invisible ceilings. The kind that do not show up on a P&L sheet, but show up in hesitation, self-sabotage, overworking, or playing smaller than their actual capability.Through modalities like NLP, Mental Emotional Release® (MER), and Hypnotherapy, Curtis helps high performers identify and reprogram the subconscious patterns that have been quietly running the show for decades.This conversation goes beyond tactics. It is about identity. Beliefs. Emotional wiring. And what becomes possible when you finally clear the internal noise.Curtis is also the host of The Curtis McCullom Show, where he interviews top leaders on success, mindset, and personal growth, exploring what really drives sustainable achievement.If you have built something meaningful but know there is another level waiting, this episode is your invitation to look inward and unlock it.Your next level is not outside of you. It is already within you.Curtis helps you access it.YouTube: https://youtube.com/@curtismccullomWebsite: http://www.bespokehumanpotentialcoaching.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/curtis-mccullom/Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/BespokeHumanPotentialFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/curtis.mccullom.BHPC/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/curtis.mccullom/Twitter: https://twitter.com/curtisBmccullomTikTok: https://tiktok.com/@curtismccullom--Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

In this episode of YES, BRAND, Hersh sits down with visionary entrepreneur Eric Malka for a candid conversation about brand building, legacy, and what it really takes to scale with integrity.Eric brings more than 30 years of experience in the luxury branded consumer-packaged goods arena. He is best known as the co-founder of The Art of Shaving, the brand that redefined men’s grooming and turned a daily routine into a ritual.As co-founder and former CEO, Eric grew The Art of Shaving from a startup into an internationally recognized brand. In 2009, the company was acquired by Gillette, a Procter & Gamble company. Following the acquisition, Eric continued to lead the business as CEO through the end of 2010, guiding the transition while preserving the brand’s identity inside a global powerhouse.In 2014, Eric founded Strategic Brand Investments, a private equity fund focused on empowering early-stage entrepreneurs to develop their brands and grow sustainable businesses. As Managing Partner, he works closely with founders and leadership teams to pioneer winning strategies, scale with purpose, and build brands that endure.In this conversation, Hersh and Eric explore:What it really means to build a brand, not just a productThe discipline behind scaling without diluting identityNavigating acquisition while protecting brand equityThe difference between entrepreneurship and brand stewardshipHow early-stage founders can think bigger and build smarterThis episode is a masterclass in long-term brand thinking from someone who has done it at the highest level, from startup grit to global acquisition and beyond.YES to brands that mean business.www.strategicbrandinvestments.com_______________________________________________________________Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Take the 60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz, and find other resources here: https://www.hershrephun.com/selling-the-truth/

On the latest YES, BRAND podcast, Hersh sat down with T Keaton Woods, who calls herself a “soul personal trainer.” Stay with me.T works with artists, creatives, and entrepreneurs, the dreamers gutsy enough to say, “I’m going to make something new.” She sees soul as your source code. Not religious. Not woo. Just the core programming that drives how you live and create. And like any code, it can get messy. Her work is to help refine it and actually operate from it.She doesn’t see herself as a coach barking plays from the sidelines. She’s a Sherpa. She may know where the potholes are, but you still have to walk the path. Sometimes she calls out the hole. Sometimes she lets you step in and then offers a hand back up. Either way, the authority stays with you.She and Hersh talked about her “slow-mad” life in Scotland, her massive metaphorical circus tent of human connection, and why artists matter. They document the times. They make us feel history, not just read it.Her closing thought was simple and powerful: sometimes the most aligned move is no. Build on solid ground, not a house of cards.That’s truth worth training for.Find T: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tkeatonwoods/Worth noting: Hersh's new book, SELLING THE TRUTH: A ‘Semoir’ with Insights for Life & Business is a semi memoir drawing on his adventures as an Authority Advisor and Standup Comedian. It is part business book, part happiness formula for life, and an amuseful read, whether you’re building a business or burnishing your self-image.You can kickstart your own messaging evolution with a one-on-one 5-Minute Fix.Resources:60-second Get Off Your Assets Quiz: https://getoffyourassets.scoreapp.com/60-second Personal Brand Quiz: https://bit.ly/QuizHR

Hate “sales”? Get the icks when it’s time to make the offer? That actually makes sense — because your real job isn’t to sell. It’s to connect, serve, guide, and create trust with the right people.The problem isn’t your offer. It’s that most sales models force you into performance instead of relationship — pitching instead of listening, persuading instead of aligning.In this episode of YES, BRAND, longtime collaborators Nancy Zare, Ph.D. and host Hersh Rephun explore what changes when selling stops being an act and starts being an extension of who you are. Nancy shares how learning the right words and right approach helps leaders attract new business without feeling “sales-y,” while Hersh reframes sales as permission earned through clarity, personality fit, and genuine connection.This is a conversation about why authority doesn’t come from pressure — it comes from alignment — and how the strongest relationships are built when you stop trying to convince and start inviting.Website: https://nancyzare.com/

The real comeback isn’t to your old life — it’s to your true one. Rachel Gaddis didn’t just change careers — she changed her relationship with purpose. After a late ADHD diagnosis, a battle with breast cancer, and a full career reset in her 50s, she built a practice around helping others navigate reinvention without losing themselves. Hersh talked with Rachel about what real change looks like — not the “pivot” everyone posts about, but the quiet, uncomfortable clarity that comes before it. It’s the same kind of clarity that my advisory clients are chasing — the moment when the next version of your work finally matches who you’ve become.

Gabriel de la Rosa is a Principal at Intelligent Relations. Across his 14+ years in Marketing and Communications, he has helped startups and Fortune 500 companies be featured in the best publications in the world. Key Highlights of the Episode: Gabriel Delarosa, a principal at Intelligent Relations, shares his insights on the fundamentals of communication and exposure in 2024, emphasizing timeless principles first articulated by Aristotle. Delarosa discusses the importance of combining rational, emotional, and aesthetic elements in branding and how timing plays a crucial role in communication strategy. Delarosa recounts his personal journey from starting a theater production company in Venezuela to becoming a key player in the technology and venture capital space. The conversation explores how personal branding and emotional engagement can enhance business success, even in industries like tech where the product is not inherently relational. Real-world examples, such as the historical Kennedy-Nixon debate and infamous ad campaigns by Coca-Cola and Pepsi, illustrate the significance of perception and timing in branding. Delarosa emphasizes the importance of personal branding, advising individuals to invest in developing their personal stories and identities to advance their careers.

Hello! Meet Mike Adams, a serial networker (1,000+ events!) and introducer with 30 years of experience in sales and marketing at HP, Apple, Zoom, and many other tech companies.   He loves connecting people, especially in real life. You're gonna enjoy Hersh's conversation with Mike on this special Season 7 episode of YES, BRAND! A little bg:  To help track high-value, IRL introductions, Mike created introstars, the first platform where introducers get rewarded for success. Introstars is built around real-world connections, with offices in New York and London, and many more cities opening in 2026.  By joining introstars.com today, you can:  Earn substantial referral intro fees each time an introduction turns into a deal  Receive a steady stream of high-value intros to prospects, customers, and buyers  Track every intro you make and receive  Ensure you get paid for every successful intro  Try it out for free. Just sign in on introstars.com 

A good number of our Season 7 guests are artists: they're also successful businesspeople who founded and have grown their companies, in some cases over decades. In addition to SC Pictures, Stewart Cohen's dominion includes media licensing via SuperStock and its ever-expanding archives. Frame life in its best light: Working your way through Stewart Cohen’s portfolio of commercials and stills for clients including American Airlines, AT&T, Coca-Cola, Four Seasons, and Frito-Lay, you are as likely to see heartfelt testimonials as Game Day humor, real people as celebs, with campaigns spanning fashion, kids, sports, wildly diverse storytelling and portraiture... He’s gone swimming with sharks in the Galapagos and come up for air to stage a tongue-in-cheek musical comedy starring the townspeople of Mansfield, TX. They sing about being too busy for tourism. The throughline is seizing the moment to celebrate the joy of life. In addition to directing and shooting stills through his production company, SC Pictures, Stewart is an increasingly influential player in the licensing arena, beginning with his purchase of SuperStock in 2019. In 2023, SuperStock acquired All Canada Photos, the country’s premier Canada-focused stock images agency, offering a rich imagery and multimedia content collection. That was followed in 2024 by its acquisition of the coveted Classic Stock collection, along with UK architectural archive View Pictures and Seattle-based Danita Delimont Stock Photography, in 2025. https://www.stewartcohen.com/

"Simon is one of the most genuinely humble leaders I've had the pleasure of speaking with," says host Hersh Rephun of Simon Stillwell, who specializes in sales strategy and management, bringing extensive business experience from his work as both a board member and executive leader across multiple companies. Simon has navigated acquisitions from both sides, guided organizations through sale readiness, and unified diverse teams post-transaction. With a strong track record of bringing international businesses into the U.S. market, Simon now advises companies looking to expand overseas, using his proprietary 4 P’s framework—People, Product, Process, Price—to drive sustainable revenue success. Outside of his professional work, Simon and his wife love entertaining, and he’s been an avid sourdough baker for more than 15 years. He is also a passionate sailor, the owner of an 80-year-old wooden sailboat, and has logged thousands of miles at sea, including a full Atlantic crossing.

When I sat down with Morgan DeNicola, Executive Director of the DeNicola Family Foundation among other things, I knew I was talking to someone who doesn’t just talk about global issues—she goes out and gets her boots dirty. Morgan is the Vice Chairman of the Humpty Dumpty Institute (HDI), the organization that works with Congress, the State Department, the UN, embassies, and young people to spark real dialogue on the world’s toughest challenges. Her work with congressional delegations has taken her from Beijing’s Taihe Global Civilization Forum to Malawi, where a visit to the Amitofo Care Centre lit a fire in her. What she saw there pushed her to launch Cosmo Cares Mobile Healthcare Van, now being donated to the ACC to reach remote villages in Lesotho—with a formal dedication set for November 17, 2022. More recently, she led a congressional delegation in Rwanda, because Morgan doesn’t do “slow.” Back home, she’s part of the Steinberg DeNicola Humanitarian Awards, recognizing NFL players who step up for their communities, and she helps elevate global medical researchers through the CDC Scientific Scholarship. On top of that, she supports Ronald McDonald House, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and local holiday drives—all while serving on the board of the Elmwood Zoo, dedicated to inspiring real conservation action. My conversation with Morgan reminded me why these interviews matter: she’s living her mission, not just reciting it—and that kind of truth sticks with you.

James Corwin is a young American wildlife artist and gallery owner with works that are sold nationwide. His gallery, Corwin Galleries, is situated in Montana's Bitterroot Valley (an area recently popularized by the television series Yellowstone). James found success as an art entrepreneur, not just through his artistic talent, but by exploring innovative avenues of online marketing. He has built a multi-million-dollar brand and is defying the concept of "the starving artist.” James found his creative passion painting wildlife, which expresses an obvious narrative that is uplifting, relatable, and has a touch of whimsy. He draws inspiration from his global travels. On the entrepreneurial side of James’ journey, there have been successes and setbacks, creative shifts and new goals. James is constantly testing and refining his business. He is excited to share an inside look into the life of an artist, what it takes to grow an art business, and how to invest in yourself. Connect with James https://www.facebook.com/jamescorwinfineart https://instagram.com/jamescorwin https://www.tiktok.com/@jamescorwin.art https://www.youtube.com/@JamesCorwinFineArt

A lifelong passion for environmental protection led Tim Etherington-Judge to co-found Avallen, the world’s most planet-positive spirits brand. But before that, two decades in hospitality — and a mental breakdown in 2016 — inspired him to launch Healthy Hospo, the first company dedicated to improving the health and happiness of hospitality workers. Named to the Bar100 list of the most influential people in the global bar industry (2019–2022), Tim’s journey is one of resilience, purpose, and radical honesty. He even attempted 42 marathons in 42 days to raise awareness for mental health — and what he learned along the way might just change how you define success. In this episode, Tim and I talk about sustainability, self-care, and why sometimes the bravest move you can make is slowing down. 🎧 Listen now and subscribe to YES, BRAND — stories of truth, purpose, and the people bold enough to live both. avallen.solutions 

Jenn Greenhut is a stage IV breast cancer survivor, keynote speaker, and author of Everyone Needs a Larry. She is also the founder of Love, Zero Negative and The Zero Negative Foundation. Jenn’s mission is to ignite self-love, spread gratitude, and remind people that life is always working out for us—even when it doesn’t look like it. Through her signature Pinch Me method, she shows how our greatest challenges can be reframed as gifts from the universe. Pinched by stage IV cancer, Jenn chose to see it as a gift from God—one to be met with love, gratitude, and trust, the superpowers we all have within. Instagram: @lovezeronegative @zeronegativeorg Website: Lovezeronegative.com Zeronegativefoundation.org Everyone Needs a Larry is on Amazon  Lastly, The Zero Negative Fpoundation annual fundraiser: For Love and Laughs at The Comedy Store November 9th … tickets are on sale https://www.showclix.com/event/lovelaughs2025

No two people - or personal brands - are exactly alike. And no one demonstrates that better than Doug Lynam: From Marine to Benedictine monk to financial expert, Doug’s unconventional journey reflects his unique perspective on wealth and purpose. After graduating top of his class from Marine Corps Officer Candidate School, Doug spent two decades as a monk while leading a prestigious school’s math department. Transitioning to finance in 2017, he became a partner at LongView Asset Management, overseeing $250 million in assets. His bestselling book, “From Monk To Money Manager: A Former Monk's Financial Guide To Becoming a Little Bit Wealthy—and Why That's Okay,” revolutionized the conversation around spirituality and wealth, proving that financial success and ethical living go hand in hand—not just coexisting, but enhancing each other. In his latest work, “Taming Your Money Monster: Nine Paths To Money Mastery With The Enneagram,” Doug combines the Enneagram with modern psychology to help individuals transform their financial behaviors. Today, he is a sought-after speaker and coach, helping clients align money with their deepest values and purpose. Connect with Doug https://www.douglynam.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-lynam/ https://www.instagram.com/douglynam/ https://www.youtube.com/@douglynam

My pal Greg Kuehn and I go way back, in his case scoring TV commercials, and in my case as a publicist for people who direct, edit and score TV commercials! So I'm thrilled to have this brilliant man as my guest on Season 7 of YES, BRAND. Our friendship and our thoughts on what we do run deep. Greg got his start in film working on the score for cult classic Repo Man, on which he arrange d music and played keyboards. Since then, Greg has scored numerous films, including Bandwagon, winner of the Maverick award at the Newport Beach Film Festival 2005, and “Born to Lose”, Doug Cawker’s loser epic on Provisional Films. Greg’s most recent film project is the acclaimed documentary, “Confessions of a Superhero”, produced by Morgan Spurlock. He is also set to begin composing on the feature documentary “We Were Feared” about the punk Mecca, The Cuckoo’s Nest in Costa Mesa and directed by Jonathan Mills. Greg has scored hundreds of television commercials, and recent campaigns include DirecTV, Netflix and Mini Cooper. His company, Peligro Music and Sound Design continues to thrive as one of Los Angeles’ most sought after boutique music houses. As musical director for singer / actress Megan Mullally, Greg has produced two critically acclaimed cd’s: The Sweetheart Break-In, and Big As A Berry. Their band, Supreme Music Program, continues to perform nationally, and is in preparation for the recording their third album. Greg is currently writing and producing albums for punk icons Jack Grisham (TSOL), and Duane Peters (U.S. Bombs, The Huns). Greg’s teenage sons, Elvis and Max are members of The Diffs, a great American rock band appearing at last year’s SXSW music festival. Their debut record on SOS records received high praise from numerous national publications, and their sophomore album will be released this year.

"I knew when I devised the concept of 'Season 7' that I intended to invite Dr. Lola Adeyemo to participate," Hersh recalls. "Lola is someone I've been speaking with for over a year and her vision, skill, and spirit continue to inspire." Dr. Lola is a TEDx speaker, author, and CEO of EQImindset (Equity & Inclusion Mindset) who transforms organizations through strategic ERG implementation and inclusive leadership development. With her Doctorate in Organizational Leadership and almost two decades of experience, she partners with Fortune 500 companies to build cultures where diversity drives innovation and growth. Author of "Thriving in Intersectionality" and founder of nonprofit Immigrants in Corporate Inc., she combines academic expertise with practical strategies that create measurable business results and workplace transformation. https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlolaadeyemo/

Prior to recording this episode, Hersh experienced Bill Protzmann's Musimorphic firsthand. The question Bill posed was, "Hersh, what song is on your heart right now?" It was the beginning of a beautiful relationship and ongoing discussion, a portion of which you, the listener, will experience here. Bill is on a mission to raise awareness of music’s transformative power. With over 30 years of experience, he has taught everyone from corporate leaders to those experiencing homelessness how music can enhance mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being. In 2011, Bill founded Music Care Inc., a purpose-driven company dedicated to teaching practical ways to use music for self-care. His work earned him the National Council for Behavioral Health’s Award of Excellence in 2014—the industry’s equivalent of an Oscar. In 2023, Music Care Inc. introduced Musimorphic™, a bold new brand focused on enhancing wellness, deepening relationships, and bringing back the joy, play, and transformative healing power of music. Websites https://quest.musimorphic.com https://www.musimorphic.com Social Media Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/billprotzmann/ @Musimorphic on FaceBook and Instagram https://linktr.ee/Musimorphic (includes all social and recorded music links) YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5fg36DMzTRrcEpI3NgpQhQ YourTango: https://www.yourtango.com/experts/bill-protzmann eBook Lead Magnets Staying Sober For Thirty Days: https://musimorphic.com/musimorphic-sobriety/ How To Implement Desire: https://musimorphic.com/musimorphic-level-up/ Music As Self-Care: https://musimorphic.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Music-As-SelfCare.pdf Contact Phone: 800-785-8596 or 209-800-2185 Email: [email protected]

For the first episode of YES BRAND Season 7, Hersh sits down with Lindsay Tjepkema - a 3x founder and visionary B2B marketing leader with 20+ years of experience. She founded venture-backed SaaS startup, Casted, the first podcast and video marketing platform for B2B brands. As CEO, she led the company it to rapid growth with clients like IBM, HubSpot, and Salesforce. Now, as the founder of Human Brands Win, she helps founders build authentic, breakthrough brands. A sought-after speaker at SXSW, INBOUND, B2BMX, and more, Lindsay’s insights have been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, NPR, and TechCrunch. She is a Forbes Business Council member, co-leader of the Women of Pavilion Community, and a passionate advocate for founders defining success on their own terms. Lindsay lives near Boston with her husband and three sons.

Linda Rawson is a technology entrepreneur, author, inventor, and C-level executive. As President of DynaGrace Enterprises, a Women-Owned Small Business in rural Morgan, Utah, she has secured millions of dollars in federal government contracts, conducting cutting-edge Technology R&D for prestigious clients like the Air Force and Naval Research Laboratories. Her journey began as a software engineer in the 1980s, a time when women in technology were a rarity in Utah. Overcoming challenges and exceeding expectations, Linda's background seamlessly blends technical expertise with sharp business acumen. Beyond her corporate success, Linda is passionate about empowering women entrepreneurs. As the founder of GovConBiz, a company that helps businesses with Federal Government Contracting, and an author, she shares her insights and experience to help others navigate the path to success. She believes in the power of work-life balance. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, pursuing amateur photography, and embracing the outdoors through activities like golf, hiking, scuba diving, and winter activities. She brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the conversation about public speaking, sales, and the entrepreneurial journey. Want to learn the secrets to government contracting? Be sure and listen to Linda Rawson as she shares her experience, strategy and tidbits about government contracting. https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/govconbiz-with-linda-rawson/id1525772424 Follow Linda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindarawson/

Steve Biegel has an encyclopedic knowledge of what has and hasn’t worked in advertising over the past several decades... running deeper still is his understanding of purpose and the role it plays in the brand-consumer relationships of today.   An award-winning ad veteran, Steve got his start as a copywriter with experience at agencies like Ammirati & Puris, Ogilvy, Havas, and others. He served as Partner/Executive Producer at WildChild Content in NY, where he oversaw branded content campaigns and produced social impact films such as THE WALK.    Going back to his writing roots, Steve - who has also been an adjunct professor at Queen’s College - is currently working with a publisher, writing a book on conscious-driven marketing, and how to craft brands that people don’t just buy, but love, believe in, and advocate for.  Steve’s take blends psychology, behavioral economics, cultural insights, and hard-as-a-diamond data with real-world case studies, offering a practical roadmap to build brands that matter in a skeptical, value-driven world. In a real throwback to the history of human connection, he discusses tribe-building and the clubs consumers wish to join, along with adapting technologically in our times. “think, say, and do what is needed to become the version of themselves they aspire to become.” Connect with Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-biegel-1b03503/

With over 14 years of experience, he've seen ups and downs. Built his first venture from scratch to $10 million ARR, but also faced failures, like in ed-tech. Learning from mistakes, he explored the world of crypto, even wrote a book about it. In 2021, he founded AcknoLedger to explore web3.0's potential, raising $2.5 million. Then, in 2022, got hooked on socialfying and launched "Voice of Crypto," and moved to London giving everyone a say in the crypto world. It's growing fast, with 1 million users. It's not just another news outlet; they are a community-driven platform with over 1 million active users. Their goal is to demystify crypto and make it accessible to everyone, using simple language that anyone can understand. Alongside Voice of Crypto, he launched "Vitamin i," a marketplace for web3.0 influencers. Vitamin i connects brands with influencers who are shaping the future of the internet. It's more than just a marketplace; it's a platform for collaboration and innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of web3.0. https://www.linkedin.com/in/abhisheksinghrajpurohit/

Arias WebsterBerry is a highly successful entrepreneur, digital marketing strategist, and business coach, best known for founding WebsterBerry Marketing, Ignite Funnels, and Launch Ignition Ai. With over a decade of experience in digital marketing, he has generated over $112 million in revenue for his clients by helping them grow their online presence and scale their businesses using automation and cutting-edge marketing strategies. Arias is also the author of Content Cannon, a guide that empowers entrepreneurs to create impactful content strategies that resonate with their audiences and drive business growth. His mission is to help 1,000 entrepreneurs achieve $100,000+ and 100 entrepreneurs generate $1 million by 2026.

Daniel is an executive with a proven track record of driving transformational leadership and strategic growth across Fortune 100 to SMB's within Energy, Manufacturing, CPG, Technology, and Professional Services. Increased market share by 31% and revenue by 107% by developing and executing comprehensive global market development strategies.Achieved 27% improvement in new business revenue and 60% operational efficiency through data-driven Power BI insights.Spearheaded enterprise-wide transformations resulting in 50% improvement in customer KPIs and 92% reduction in compliance penalties.

Mark Rampolla is a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of ZICO Coconut Water, a brand that helped create the now $8 billion global coconut water category. After growing ZICO into one of the fastest-growing beverages worldwide, Mark sold the company to Coca Cola in 2013. He then transitioned into investing, co-founding PowerPlant Partners, where he played a key role in the plant-based food movement, including the success of Beyond Meat. In 2020, Mark made a bold move by repurchasing ZICO from Coca Cola with a group of investors, including Jesse Itzler and tennis star Naomi Osaka. Now, through GroundForce Capital, Mark manages $500 million in assets, focusing on health, wellness, and sustainability investments. His journey reflects a deep commitment to innovation and positive change in the consumer goods industry.

CEO (YU2SHINE) & Unconquerable mE Program Director With over 30 years of business and leadership experience, Marla Ballard is dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve their highest potential.Her journey encompasses significant achievements, including being a top producer and trainer for an international wellness company, serving on multiple non-profit boards of directors, and founding successful companies and business networking organizations. As CEO of YU2SHINE, along with the YU2SHINE Founder, Victoria Rader, Marla leads a global mission of quantum personal development. She exemplifies living a God-guided life filled with love, compassion, freedom, and unity. Under her leadership, YU2SHINE aims to help each person shine their unique light and live authentically. Certifications and Expertise Marla holds several prestigious certifications: ⇢ Professional Enlightenment Coach ®⇢ Free mE® EFT Practitioner & Instructor⇢ThetaHealing® Certificate of Science⇢YU2SHINE Quantum Light Touch Practitioner⇢ Bachelor of Science in Animal Science⇢ Speaker, Trainer, International Best-Selling Author

Peter Murphy Lewis is the innovative founder of StrategicPete.com and a distinguished fractional Chief Marketing Officer. Specializing in translating complex marketing data into clear, actionable strategies, Peter is pivotal in driving revenue and growth across diverse sectors, including software, travel, media, and more uniquely, zoos and banks. His ability to find commonalities in seemingly disparate industries sets him apart in the field of strategic marketing. Beyond his consulting prowess, Peter is also the host of two television shows and the producer and narrator of a compelling documentary, blending his expertise with a natural talent for storytelling. Living with his family in a literal zoo in Wichita, Kansas (YES!), Peter's life is as colorful and dynamic as his professional endeavors. Known for his skill in assembling and leading high-performance teams, Peter is the trusted advisor for CEOs seeking to demystify their marketing efforts and accelerate business growth. https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermurphylewis/ https://strategicpete.com/

UK-based Toni McLelland serves clients globally, as an RSA Fellow, Critical Friend, Business Mentor, and founder of The Compassionate Organisation Framework and Leadership Model.  Known as "The Queen of Compassion" and "The Compassionate Businesswoman," she comes with a sprinkling of #TonisFairyDust and has been described as fairy dust personified. Toni is an inspirational, people-leader and one that passionately navigates C Suite and board members through individual and business challenge, crisis and change management for futureproofing and sustainability in business. She is a business specialist for third sector, social and public causes and has led organisations in this space for over 30 years. A veteran in DEIB which underpins all her work she also has her own ‘BLEND’ leadership change model and is keen to assist leaders with business acumen to futureproof business whilst leading the People and Sustainability agendas.

Meet Amy Zander, The Mobstress of Marketing, and Founder of Zeedia Media, which helps clients increase SEO and online content through social media marketing, blogging, content management, training, podcast launches, and website and logo design. In her own words, "Your brand should be VERY powerful yet very SIMPLE. One single emotional connection done right. That is what Brand Archetypes is about. What is your Brand Archetype?"

Accountant turned Voice Over Actor! It's never too late to follow your passion. Renée shares her story of transitioning from corporate, to entrepreneurship and finally stepping into her true passion, the creative space. Having voiced for Crisco, Greenpeace and others, she shares the highs and lows of making a transition at middle age. It's about being true to yourself and what you really love.

Jake Setterlun, a 28-year-old entrepreneur from Milwaukee, WI, began his business journey at the age of 19 while navigating college and searching for his life's direction. Along the way, he has experienced both remarkable successes and significant setbacks, including failed ventures, scaling to million-dollar months, losing it all, and rebuilding from scratch. These experiences have given Jake a unique and diverse perspective on business and starting from the ground up. His businesses have been featured in Inc., Yahoo Finance, and Influencive and were recognized with the prestigious 2024 Inc. 5000 award for being the fastest-growing marketing company. Website: https://jakesetterlun.com/