Brand Chops Podcast

S01 E11: Building your Business with a Strong Brand Foundation

In this episode of Brand Chop, hosts Zack Lemear and Chris Duhaime engage with Shawn Walsh, a former CEO of an IT managed service company and now an author and owner of Encore Strategic Services. They discuss the critical elements of building a strong brand foundation, the importance of differentiation in a saturated market, and the role of core values in shaping a company's identity. Sean shares insights on how to create emotional connections through branding and emphasizes that a brand is not merely a logo but the overall experience and feelings it evokes in customers. 
Takeaways
A brand is about the feeling and experience, not just a logo.
Differentiation is crucial in a saturated market.
Core values should be well-defined and not just marketing fluff.
Dress appropriately for your audience to create a strong impression.
A logo serves as a visual cue for your brand.
Your brand should resonate with your audience, not just reflect you.
Core values should guide hiring and firing decisions.
Branding is about creating emotional connections with customers.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
02:41 Unified Message and Multiple Offerings
06:18 Unique and Different Core Values
08:47 Differentiating as an MSP
12:20 Simple Yet Impactful Differentiation
15:38 Building a Brand for the People
17:01 Brandchops Outro.wav
Contact Us
Brand Chops is brought to you by the fine people at Pivot Creative. Pivot Creative is a full service branding and marketing agency that partners with businesses to build brands that connect so that every dollar you spend is an investment and not an expense.If you need some branding or marketing guidance, a website, a new brand or want to learn more about one of the topics we cover on the show please reach out to us at pivotcreative.com. If you know someone that would benefit from learning more from one of our shows please share the episode, visit brand-chops.com and as always, like and subscribe if you find this content to be helpful. See you next time on Brand Chops, where we chop up brands to see what they're made of!

S01:E10 Unflappable Core Values: The Foundation of Business

Summary
In this episode of Brand Chops, Zack Lemear and Chris Duhaime delve into the significance of core values in business. They discuss how core values should be unflappable, align with the reality of the business, and evolve with changing social norms. The conversation emphasizes the importance of developing core values from both positive and negative experiences, identifying trends through customer feedback, and creating inspirational values that resonate with employees and clients alike. They also highlight the need for visibility and recognition of core values within the company to foster a positive culture.
Takeaways
Core values must be unflappable and timeless.
Align core values with actual business practices.
Evolve core values to reflect modern societal norms.
Develop core values from both positive and negative experiences.
Identify trends in customer feedback to shape core values.
Core values should inspire and resonate with employees.
Visibility of core values is crucial for company culture.
Recognizing employees for embodying core values fosters positivity.
A positive company culture cannot be bought; it must be built.
Core values should reflect the principles you won't sacrifice. 
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:20 The Power of Unflappable Core Values
02:16 Avoiding Antiquated Core Values
04:09 Creating Unique Core Values
06:39 Core Values as Brand Personality
12:39 Developing and Summarizing Core Values
20:22 Visibility and Communication of Core Values
21:56 Core Values and Internal Culture
22:47 Inspiring Employees and Attracting Customers
23:53 Conclusion
Contact Us
Brand Chops is brought to you by the fine people at Pivot Creative. Pivot Creative is a full service branding and marketing agency that partners with businesses to build brands that connect so that every dollar you spend is an investment and not an expense.If you need some branding or marketing guidance, a website, a new brand or want to learn more about one of the topics we cover on the show please reach out to us at pivotcreative.com. If you know someone that would benefit from learning more from one of our shows please share the episode, visit brand-chops.com and as always, like and subscribe if you find this content to be helpful. See you next time on Brand Chops, where we chop up brands to see what they're made of! 
 

S01:E09 The Power of Storytelling in Branding

Summary
In this episode of Brand Chops, hosts Zack Lemear and Chris Duhaime engage with brand strategist Beth Carr to explore the essential steps small businesses should take to develop a strong brand strategy. They discuss the importance of understanding one's audience, the significance of a brand's core values, and the transition from being a technician to a business owner. The conversation delves into the role of storytelling in branding, the utilization of the StoryBrand framework, and effective strategies for differentiating a brand in a competitive market.
Takeaways
Small businesses should focus on their core values and mission.
Understanding your ideal audience is crucial for brand positioning.
A brand compass helps guide business decisions.
Transitioning from technician to business owner requires a mindset shift.
Client relationships are key to business growth.
Storytelling is a powerful tool in branding.
The StoryBrand framework simplifies brand messaging.
Differentiation in a crowded market is essential for success.
Taking risks can lead to unique brand positioning.
Awareness of your brand's impact on clients is vital.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
03:17 The Mindset Shift from Solopreneur to Business Owner
09:06 The Power of Storytelling
15:02 Using the StoryBrand Framework
25:43 Standing Out in a Competitive Market
36:39 Conclusion
37:24 Brandchops Outro.wav
Contact Us
Brand Chops is brought to you by the fine people at Pivot Creative. Pivot Creative is a full service branding and marketing agency that partners with businesses to build brands that connect so that every dollar you spend is an investment and not an expense.If you need some branding or marketing guidance, a website, a new brand or want to learn more about one of the topics we cover on the show please reach out to us at pivotcreative.com. If you know someone that would benefit from learning more from one of our shows please share the episode, visit brand-chops.com and as always, like and subscribe if you find this content to be helpful. See you next time on Brand Chops, where we chop up brands to see what they're made of! 

S01:E08 Mastering LinkedIn for Personal Branding

Summary
In this episode of Brand Chops, hosts Zack Lemear and Chris Duhaime discuss the importance of leveraging LinkedIn for personal branding with expert Angela Dunz. They explore key elements of optimizing LinkedIn profiles, including the significance of profile photos, crafting an effective about section, and leveraging existing networks. Angela shares insights on common mistakes users make, the importance of consistency, and how to effectively use LinkedIn as a relationship-building tool.
Takeaways
The above the fold view is crucial for first impressions.
Profile photos should be current and recognizable.
Your LinkedIn headline should clearly state who you serve and the problems you solve.
The about section should focus on the client's needs, not just your experience.
Networking on LinkedIn is about maintaining relationships, not just making sales.
The featured section should include valuable resources for your audience.
Custom buttons can be used to drive newsletter sign-ups or coffee chats.
Contributing to articles can help build authority but requires consistency.
Many users neglect to update their profiles, which affects visibility.
LinkedIn should be viewed as a one-to-one conversation rather than a one-to-many platform.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
03:55 Above-the-Fold View and Profile Photo
07:05 Utilizing the Banner and Headline
10:41 Leveraging Connections and Networking on LinkedIn
13:58 Best Practices for the Featured Section
16:03 Optimizing the Custom Button
18:10 Contributing to Articles on LinkedIn
22:21 LinkedIn as a Relationship-Building Tool
25:00 Final Advice and Conclusion
26:20 Brandchops Outro.wav
Contact Us
Brand Chops is brought to you by the fine people at Pivot Creative. Pivot Creative is a full service branding and marketing agency that partners with businesses to build brands that connect so that every dollar you spend is an investment and not an expense.If you need some branding or marketing guidance, a website, a new brand or want to learn more about one of the topics we cover on the show please reach out to us at pivotcreative.com. If you know someone that would benefit from learning more from one of our shows please share the episode, visit brand-chops.com and as always, like and subscribe if you find this content to be helpful. See you next time on Brand Chops, where we chop up brands to see what they're made of!

S01:E07 Crafting Your Brand's Vision and Mission

In this episode of Brand Chops, hosts Zack Lemear and Chris Duhaime delve into the critical concepts of vision and mission in branding. They discuss how a well-defined vision serves as an aspirational goal that guides a brand's mission, which outlines the strategies to achieve that vision. The conversation emphasizes the importance of clarity, alignment with core values, and the need for a unified direction within a company. They also provide practical advice on crafting effective vision and mission statements that resonate with both internal teams and external clients.
Takeaways
Vision is the big aspirational goal of a brand.
Mission outlines the daily actions to achieve the vision.
Clarity in messaging is crucial for brand success.
A strong vision should inspire and unify the team.
Understanding purpose is essential before defining vision and mission.
Effective mission statements should be concise and clear.
Engaging clients requires focusing on their needs, not just your achievements.
Vision and mission can evolve but should remain aligned with core values.
Involving the team in vision creation fosters buy-in and alignment.
Regularly revisiting and refining your vision and mission is important for growth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
00:48 The Importance of Vision
02:27 Developing a Core Strategy with a Mission Statement
05:15 Aligning Vision and Mission with Brand Purpose and Core Values
07:16 Tips for Creating Effective Vision and Mission Statements
Contact Us
Brand Chops is brought to you by the fine people at Pivot Creative. Pivot Creative is a full service branding and Marketing agency that partners with businesses to build brands that connect so that every dollar you spend is an investment and not an expense.If you need some branding or marketing guidance, a website, a new brand or want to learn more about one of the topics we cover on the show please reach out to us at pivotcreative.com. If you know someone that would benefit from learning more from one of our shows please share the episode, visit brand-chops.com and as always, like and subscribe if you find this content to be helpful. See you next time on Brand Chops, where we chop up brands to see what they're made of! 

S01:E06 Unlocking Business Growth with Go-to-Market Strategies

Summary
In this episode of Brand Chops, hosts Zack Lemear and Chris Duhaime welcome Michael Haynes, a business growth specialist with over 25 years of experience. The conversation delves into the intricacies of go-to-market strategies, emphasizing the importance of market research, client engagement, and providing valuable insights to decision-makers. Michael shares his framework for success, which includes understanding client needs, leveraging micro events for engagement, and tracking key metrics to measure effectiveness. The discussion also highlights common mistakes made by small businesses and the critical need for clarity and listening in developing effective strategies.
Takeaways
Michael Haynes is a business growth specialist with extensive experience.
A go-to-market strategy is an overarching plan for business growth.
Clarity, focus, and consistency are essential for success.
Market research is crucial for understanding client needs.
Listening to clients provides valuable insights for strategy development.
Providing AIR (Advice, Insights, Recommendations) is key in professional services.
Micro events facilitate meaningful client engagement.
Metrics should track client engagement and sales success.
Common mistakes include a lack of market understanding and listening.
Small businesses should leverage industry associations for insights.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction
02:54 Defining Go-to-Market Strategy
04:09 The Role of Branding in Go-to-Market Strategies
06:32 The Importance of Market Research
11:56 Content Creation and Micro Events
14:51 Strategic Collaborations
15:24 Measuring Success: Key Metrics
17:24 Avoiding Mistakes in Go-to-Market Strategies
20:07 Contact Information and Conclusion
20:55 Brandchops Outro.wav
Contact Us
Brand Chops is brought to you by the fine people at Pivot Creative. Pivot Creative is a full service branding and marketing agency that partners with businesses to build brands that connect so that every dollar you spend is an investment and not an expense.If you need some branding or marketing guidance, a website, a new brand or want to learn more about one of the topics we cover on the show please reach out to us at pivotcreative.com. If you know someone that would benefit from learning more from one of our shows please share the episode, visit brand-chops.com and as always, like and subscribe if you find this content to be helpful. See you next time on Brand Chops, where we chop up brands to see what they're made of!

S01:E05 Empowering Sales Through Effective Branding

In this episode of Brand Chops, hosts Zack Lemear and Chris Duhaime engage with Walter Crosby, CEO of Helix Sales Development, to explore the critical role of branding in the sales process. They discuss how effective branding empowers sales teams, the importance of aligning marketing and sales messaging, and the necessity of establishing a structured sales process. Walter emphasizes the need for accountability, the significance of disqualifying leads, and the value of understanding clients' needs. The conversation also covers effective sales techniques, the importance of coaching sales teams, and the criteria for hiring the right salespeople. Walter shares insights on how to engage with clients and the importance of continuous learning in sales.
 
Takeaways
Branding is essential for empowering sales teams.
Alignment between marketing and sales messaging is crucial.
Salespeople need structure and clear expectations.
Disqualifying leads can streamline the sales process.
Understanding the buyer is key to successful sales.
Sales should focus on solving problems for clients.
Coaching and development are vital for sales success.
Hiring the right salesperson requires understanding your buyer.
Regular communication with clients can provide valuable insights.
Continuous learning and adaptation are necessary in sales.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction
01:07 The Importance of Branding in Empowering a Sales Team
05:56 Aligning Marketing and Sales Messaging for Trust and Credibility
09:16 The Role of Structure and Accountability in Sales
12:56 Understanding the Buyer's Perspective and Needs
17:07 The Value of Getting a 'No' from Prospects
22:26 Coaching, Mental Strength, and Disqualifying Prospects for Sales Success
28:24 Creating an Ideal Client Profile for Effective Sales
33:58 Conclusion
Contact Us
Brand Chops is brought to you by the fine people at Pivot Creative. Pivot Creative is a full service branding and Marketing agency that partners with businesses to build brands that connect so that every dollar you spend is an investment and not an expense.If you need some branding or marketing guidance, a website, a new brand or want to learn more about one of the topics we cover on the show please reach out to us at pivotcreative.com. If you know someone that would benefit from learning more from one of our shows please share the episode, visit brand-chops.com and as always, like and subscribe if you find this content to be helpful. See you next time on Brand Chops, where we chop up brands to see what they're made of!

S01:E04 Trademarking Your Brand

In this episode, Diane Chubb, Trademark Lawyer for over 25 years, discusses the significance of trademarks for small to medium-sized businesses, emphasizing the importance of branding and the strategic process of trademark registration. She highlights common mistakes made by businesses, the necessity of legal protection, and the role of trademark attorneys in navigating the complexities of intellectual property. The conversation also touches on cost-effective solutions for trademarking and the various elements of brand identity that can be protected.
 
Takeaways
Trademarks are essential for protecting your brand identity.
Branding should tell a story that resonates with customers.
Trademark registration is a long-term process that requires strategy.
Small businesses may not need trademarks immediately, but should plan for growth.
Research is crucial before filing for a trademark to avoid conflicts.
State trademarks can be a cost-effective option for local businesses.
DIY trademarking can lead to costly mistakes and misunderstandings.
Investing in a trademark attorney can save time and money in the long run.
Elements of brand identity include logos, taglines, and trade dress.
Not every element of a brand is protectable, and understanding this is key.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and the Value of Trademarks
01:28 The Importance of Branding and Storytelling
03:53 Creating a Brand Worth Protecting
07:04 The Process of Trademark Registration
11:17 Strategic Considerations in Trademark Filing
16:26 Alternative Options for Trademark Protection
19:02 Common Mistakes in Trademark Registration
24:38 Elements of Brand Identity and Their Protection
29:16 Contact Information
Contact Us
Brand Chops is brought to you by the fine people at Pivot Creative. Pivot Creative is a full service branding and Marketing agency that partners with businesses to build brands that connect so that every dollar you spend is an investment and not an expense.If you need some branding or marketing guidance, a website, a new brand or want to learn more about one of the topics we cover on the show please reach out to us at pivotcreative.com. If you know someone that would benefit from learning more from one of our shows please share the episode, visit brand-chops.com and as always, like and subscribe if you find this content to be helpful. See you next time on Brand Chops, where we chop up brands to see what they're made of!

S01 E03 Branding in the News - Pepsi, Coke, Jaguar, Wicked Movie

Summary
In this episode of Brand Chops, hosts Zack Lemear and Chris Duhaime discuss the recent rebranding of Jaguar, the controversy surrounding Coca-Cola's AI-generated holiday ads, a marketing mishap with the Wicked movie dolls, and the creative strategies employed by Pepsi in their latest commercials. The conversation delves into the implications of these branding decisions and their impact on consumer perception and brand identity.
 
Takeaways
Jaguar's rebranding aims to shift its market position towards luxury electric vehicles.
The emotional connection consumers have with brands can influence their perceptions significantly.
Coca-Cola's use of AI in advertising raises questions about the human touch in marketing.
Simplifying logos can be beneficial, but drastic changes may alienate loyal customers.
Marketing can create cultural phenomena, as seen with Coca-Cola and Christmas.
AI-generated content is becoming more prevalent in advertising, but may lack warmth.
Mistakes in branding can lead to significant backlash, as seen with the Wicked movie dolls.
Effective storytelling in commercials can enhance brand perception and consumer engagement.
Pepsi's recent ads demonstrate innovative marketing strategies that challenge competitors.
Brands must remain socially aware and contextually relevant in their messaging.
 
Chapters
00:00 The Jaguar Rebrand: A Bold Move or a Mistake?
12:42 Coca-Cola's AI-Generated Holiday Ads: Innovation or Loss of Humanity?
18:18 Wicked Movie's Controversial Marketing Blunder
21:54 Pepsi's Creative Marketing Strategies: Humor and Storytelling
Contact Us
Brand Chops is brought to you by the fine people at Pivot Creative. Pivot Creative is a full service branding and marketing agency that partners with businesses to build brands that connect so that every dollar you spend is an investment and not an expense.If you need some branding or marketing guidance, a website, a new brand or want to learn more about one of the topics we cover on the show please reach out to us at pivotcreative.com. If you know someone that would benefit from learning more from one of our shows please share the episode, visit brand-chops.com and as always, like and subscribe if you find this content to be helpful. See you next time on Brand Chops, where we chop up brands to see what they're made of!

S01:E02 The Power of Purpose in Business

In this conversation, Chris Duhaime and Zack Lemear discuss how aligning a company's purpose with community impact can enhance brand identity and foster a positive social responsibility. The discussion emphasizes the importance of understanding one's purpose in business, the trickle-down effects of purposeful actions, and the role of community engagement in building a strong brand. They also touch on the integration of vision and purpose statements in business strategy.
 
Takeaways
Giving back can take many forms and is essential for businesses.
Aligning business practices with community needs enhances brand value.
Understanding your purpose can lead to greater business success.
The impact of your work extends beyond immediate results.
Community engagement can elevate your brand's reputation.
Purpose-driven businesses can inspire employee loyalty.
Charitable involvement can strengthen community ties.
A clear purpose statement guides business decisions.
Vision and mission should be integrated into business strategy.
The trickle-down effect of purpose can benefit the entire community.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction: Chopping Up Brands
00:52 The Importance of Purpose Statements
06:04 Purpose as the Foundation for Branding
07:01 Building Trust through Promises
09:23 Aligning with Influencers and Brand Alliances
12:06 The Importance of Core Values
14:36 Attracting the Right People and Clients
Contact Us
Brand Chops is brought to you by the fine people at Pivot Creative. Pivot Creative is a full service branding and Marketing agency that partners with businesses to build brands that connect so that every dollar you spend is an investment and not an expense.If you need some branding or marketing guidance, a website, a new brand or want to learn more about one of the topics we cover on the show please reach out to us at pivotcreative.com. If you know someone that would benefit from learning more from one of our shows please share the episode, visit brand-chops.com and as always, like and subscribe if you find this content to be helpful. See you next time on Brand Chops, where we chop up brands to see what they're made of!