1110: Branding with HEART... and using AI + tech to make it more PERSONABLE w/ Gard Gibson

In this episode, Brian sits down with Gard Gibson, the founder of BrandHeart Strategies, a marketing leader with nearly 40 years of experience working with brands like Ford, Gatorade, and Wendy’s. Gard shares why connection is the core of branding, how businesses can foster loyalty, and why AI and technology should be used to enhance—not replace—human relationships.

Whether you're a solopreneur, small business owner, or scaling an enterprise, this episode delivers real-world insights on how to make your brand more authentic, impactful, and sustainable.

💡 What You'll Take Away For YOUR Business

🔹 The REAL definition of branding (hint: it’s not just a logo or colors)
🔹 How to create lasting customer loyalty without relying on constant advertising
🔹 Why human connection is the #1 growth strategy in today’s AI-driven world
🔹 How Chewy & Southwest Airlines use emotional intelligence to dominate their industries
🔹 How to use AI to personalize marketing without losing authenticity
🔹 Why big brands invest in “Mission Control” centers and what small businesses can learn from them
🔹 The importance of iteration—why the best brands are constantly evolving

📝 About Gard Gibson

Gard Gibson is a transformative marketing leader with over 30 years of experience driving global brand success through innovative strategies and consumer insights. As the founder of BrandHeart Strategies, Gard helps businesses forge authentic connections with their audiences by blending creativity with cutting-edge technology and data. With a legacy of shaping iconic efforts for brands like Ford, Gatorade, and Wendy’s, and as a recognized thought leader in customer experience and digital strategy, Gard brings unparalleled expertise and a passion for making brands truly resonate with their audiences.

🎯 Gard’s BEST Piece of Advice for Wantrepreneurs & Entrepreneurs

"Be committed, but don’t be rigid."

💡 Key Takeaways from Gard’s Advice:
✔ Your business is a hypothesis—stay flexible & keep learning
✔ Customer relationships matter more than short-term marketing wins
✔ Don’t just sell—build connections, and success will follow

📢 Memorable Quotes

🗣️ "A brand isn’t a logo—it’s every single interaction a customer has with your business." – Gard Gibson
🗣️ "If you want true customer loyalty, you need to treat your audience like real people, not data points." – Gard Gibson
🗣️ "AI is a tool, not a replacement for connection. The best brands use technology to enhance relationships, not replace them." – Gard Gibson

💡 Actionable Takeaways

✅ Map out your customer journey—how does someone discover you, interact with you, and become a customer?
✅ Use AI as an enhancer, not a replacement—find ways to use it for personalization without losing authenticity
✅ Engage in social listening—set up Google Alerts or tools like Infegy to track what people are saying about your brand
✅ Test and iterate your branding—get real feedback from potential customers before committing to a final look & feel
✅ Build relationships, not just transactions—your marketing should feel human, not robotic

🔗 Links & Resources

• Visit BrandHeart Strategies’ Website
• Follow BrandHeart Strategies on LinkedIn
• Connect with Gard on LinkedIn