
Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast
The Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is hosted by Michelle Wintersteen, the Brand Designer and Creative Director behind MKW Creative Co. a freelance brand design firm helping to define, design, build and grow vibrant brands for social-media-minded entrepreneurs.
The KMA Podcast is an extension of the Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group and covers topics like creating brand awareness, mastering social media marketing, cementing your brand's online presence, and being your own damn boss.
Michelle lives in sunny San Diego, California designing for brands & creating content with an undeniable west coast energy, punchy color palette & her yellow lab pup.
Latest episodes

Sep 10, 2024 • 27min
179. 10 Lessons From 10 Years in Business
Unlock the secrets to a decade of entrepreneurial insight? Join Michelle as she shares the 10 powerful lessons learned from 10 years of running her own business. From riding the unpredictable waves of creativity to building a community that actually gets you, get the lowdown on hiring the right people, juggling work-life balance, and battling imposter syndrome. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Lesson #1: You can have it all, just not all at once Lesson #2: Creativity is like surfing a wave Lesson #3: Community is EVERYTHING Lesson #4: Hire people who do the things you hate Lesson #5: We work to live, not live to work Lesson #6: There's no limit to your success Lesson #7: Never stop learning Lesson #8: Imposter syndrome happens to everyone Lesson #9: Surround yourself with people who build you up Lesson #10: Your morals and values are most important Reflections on 10 years of MKW Creative Co. ----------------------- This episode is sponsored by Harvest. Track time and expenses seamlessly so you can keep projects on track and effectively estimate future ones. Get 50% off your first month when you use the code KMA at GetHarvest.com/kma ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Sep 3, 2024 • 41min
178. Building Bold Brands with Bright Eyes Creative Co
Ever wonder why your social media posts aren't getting the action you desire? Today, Michelle is joined by Alexa Phillips of Bright Eyes Creative Co. to challenge you to infuse boldness and authenticity into your online presence. Plus you'll hear all about her recent career pivot and top inspirations. Hit play to turn your ideas into gold and leave the cookie-cutter strategies behind! Alexa Phillips is a writer, brand strategist, and multi-passionate creative. With almost a decade of marketing and writing experience, Alexa has worked with Fortune 500 brands, startups, and creative entrepreneurs to grow their brands. She is the founder and Chief Brand Architect at Bright Eyes Creative, a creative studio that helps creators, coaches, and consultants monetize their creativity and zone of genius through content, courses, and productized offers. She is also the author of Creatives Anonymous, a weekly newsletter about what it means to be a modern-day creative. You can connect with her on LinkedIn, Threads, and Instagram. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Alexa's journalism background Alexa's previous business strategy and her current pivot How she strategizes with her clients The gamification of SEO and content quality Focus on connecting with who you want to work with, not competitors Combat online burnout by seeking offline inspiration Entrepreneurs who inspire her Being bold enough to stand out online Favorite group mentorship programs Marketing productized services Repeating messages on social for clarity ----------------------- RESOURCES: Subscribe to Creatives Anonymous Grow Your Own Brand with Coming Up Roses Join the waitlist for Brand-ed with Gem Creative Co. ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about Alexa and Bright Eyes Creative Co, follow her on Instagram @BrightEyesCreative, Threads @AlexaCPhillips, LinkedIn @AlexaCPhillips and visit her website BrightEyesCreative.co, ----------------------- This episode is sponsored by Harvest. Track time and expenses seamlessly so you can keep projects on track and effectively estimate future ones. Get 50% off your first month when you use the code KMA at GetHarvest.com/kma ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Aug 27, 2024 • 38min
177. How to Stand Out on Socials with Shannon Segall
Do you feel stuck on how to stand out in the oversaturated social media landscape? Buckle up because Michelle is joined by fellow social media expert Shannon Segall to chat about nailing your brand positioning, creating content that's actually useful to your clients, and how to adapt to the ebbs and flows of user behavior online. Plus, hear Shannon's story on how she became a digital nomad. Whether you're a social media manager or a brand determined to embrace authenticity online, this episode is the perfect mix of inspirational and insightful. Shannon is a social media manager and mentor who helps female-led brands and freelancers get visible and monetize their brands on social media. After working for an Instagram Marketing Company and seeing firsthand how it could help up-level brands, cut through the noise, and connect with customers worldwide, Shannon decided to turn that knowledge and marketing obsession into a service. Trading in her cubicle for a one-way ticket, Shannon now runs her own social media management business from Australia, and hosts the podcast 'The Tropical Social'. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Becoming a digital nomad Living in Bali Creating her business and building packages How to stay up on the trends How to not spread yourself too thin Adapting to changes in user behavior Social media strategies Brand positioning on social media How to create content your audience wants Authenticity vs. oversharing online ------------------------ RESOURCES: Listen to Michelle's interview on Shannon's podcast Get $100 off Shannon's VIP Social Media Strategies when you DM her "MKW" for a discount! ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about Shannon and her business, follow her on Instagram and TikTok @ShannonSegall, listen to her podcast The Tropical Social, and visit their website, ShannonSegall.com ----------------------- This episode is sponsored by Harvest. Track time and expenses seamlessly so you can keep projects on track and effectively estimate future ones. Get 50% off your first month when you use the code KMA at GetHarvest.com/kma ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Aug 20, 2024 • 31min
176. Client Case Study: Piano C Property Management
Pop the prosecco and let’s toast to bella Italia! Join Michelle as she chats with Luigia, a real estate lawyer turned property manager, and owner of Piano C Property Management. Get ready to uncover the ins and outs of rebranding with MKW Creative Co, short-term letting, and the delicate dance of balancing tradition with modern tourism. Whether you’re dreaming of the Amalfi Coast or curious about property management, this episode promises a hearty dose of inspiration. Luigia is a lawyer specialized in real estate. Her goal is to short let valuable properties to help the owners face the fixed costs of a second house and the tourists to have a more authentic experience compared to staying at a hotel. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: What drew Luigia to hospitality What Piano C offers Fears of property owners How she grew her business How the partnership between Piano C and MKW Creative Co. began The rebranding process Using AI in a useful way Printed material and tangible marketing Feedback on the new branding from clients Insights of Airbnb Want to work with Piano C? Here's what you need to know Future goals with Piano C How the name Piano C came to be ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about Piano C Property Management, follow them on Instagram @PianoC.PropertyManagement and on TikTok @TheVillaLawyer, email Luigia at luigiagava@pianocpm.com, and visit their website, PianoCPM.com ----------------------- This episode is sponsored by Harvest. Track time and expenses seamlessly so you can keep projects on track and effectively estimate future ones. Get 50% off your first month when you use the code KMA at GetHarvest.com/kma ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Aug 13, 2024 • 22min
175. Offboarding Checklist for Brand Designers
Ready to wave goodbye to your branding project and send it off into the world with a bang? Michelle is here to unwrap the secrets of her offboarding process for branding. Learn how to hand off files like a pro, keep everything organized, and ensure your client feels like they just received a branding treasure chest. Let's iron out your creative process by demystifying file management, Google Drive hacks, and extra touches your clients will love to make you feel organized and at ease. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: When the offboarding process begins The brand design package Setting up the Google Drive and Canva Brand Kit File management Image and mockup management Setting up client's branding on Redbubble Extra touches for a smooth offboard ----------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 153: How to Manage Design Revisions Like a Pro ----------------------- This episode is sponsored by Harvest. Track time and expenses seamlessly so you can keep projects on track and effectively estimate future ones. Get 50% off your first month when you use the code KMA at GetHarvest.com/kma ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Aug 6, 2024 • 41min
174. Client Case Study: FRG Real Estate
Ever wondered how to create a buzz in the neighborhood or throw a killer open house? Today, Michelle talks with Sarah from Falk-Ruvin Gallagher to discuss their rebrand with MKW CREATIVE CO. and spill the secrets to crafting a brand that doesn't just sell but connects. From managing high-stakes visuals to making events unforgettable, we're diving into how to make your real estate game go beyond the "for sale" sign. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Why they needed support from MKW Creative Co. Sarah's marketing background The evolution of FRG's marketing efforts How marketing managers create a plan with multiple people What qualities of FRG are reflected in the branding Creating a brand that is community and client-focused Collateral materials that the team was most excited about Connecting branding with exclusivity in a personalized way Nailing the aspirational yet approachable vibe The advice she'd give to her young marketing professional self What Sarah hopes her future self says about her present self ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about Sarah, follow her on Instagram @STVogelsang or email her at sarah@thefrgteam.com and to learn more about FRG Real Estate, follow their Instagram @FalkRuvinGallagher and visit their website, thefrgteam.com ----------------------- This episode is sponsored by Harvest. Track time and expenses seamlessly so you can keep projects on track and effectively estimate future ones. Get 50% off your first month when you use the code KMA at GetHarvest.com/kma ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Jul 30, 2024 • 28min
173. Olympics Predictions: Brands, Athletes, & Activations
Get ready to light the torch and join Michelle as she dives into brand predictions at the Paris Olympics! With the games kicking off, Michelle breaks down why we love the Olympics, the psychological benefits of watching sports and influencer predictions. From historic partnerships like Coca-Cola and Visa to the luxury twist of LVMH at Paris 2024, discover how big brands are scoring big and how yours can, too. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Brand alignments in the Olympics History of brand partnerships in the Olympics The staying power of athletes vs. influencers, models, celebrities, etc How you can incorporate your brand into the Olympics convo How you can create Olympic-themed content ----------------------- This episode is sponsored by Harvest. Track time and expenses seamlessly so you can keep projects on track and effectively estimate future ones. Get 50% off your first month when you use the code KMA at GetHarvest.com/kma ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Jul 23, 2024 • 44min
172. Shooting Evergreen Content with Katie Wann
Ever dreamed of fusing fabulous food with stunning visuals? Join Michelle as she slices into food and beverage photography with Katie Wann. Discover your foodie fanbase, nail your preproduction process, and brush up on your networking game. Whether you're an entrepreneur craving variety or someone looking to elevate your brand imagery, this convo serves creative and business-savvy insights for even the most introverted business owner. Katie Wann is a creative professional with 15 years of experience. She began as a wedding and lifestyle photographer while earning a design degree. She then worked as a Creative Director for a restaurant franchise before moving to the CPG sector, where she became the in-house creative for Suja Juice. After nearly four years, Katie founded her agency, Katie Wann, Inc., specializing in product photography and stop-motion video for food and beverage brands. Her agency has worked with brands like Once Upon a Farm, Clio Snacks, Wildwonder, and Lotus Biscoff, with features in Forbes, Buzzfeed, and Bevnet. Her work is sold in major retailers like Costco, Target, Whole Foods, and Walmart. Katie is passionate about helping better-for-you brands grow. ----------------------- In today's episode, we cover the following: Going from corporate to business owner Katie's creative process Importance of investing in good, evergreen photography Detailed shot planning Seamless preproduction and postproduction How to foster long-term relationships through networking Using AI as a photographer Advice to her younger self How to cold pitch ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about Katie and follow her dazzling content, find her on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook@KatieWannInc and visit her website, KatieWann.com. ----------------------- This episode is sponsored by Harvest. Track time and expenses seamlessly so you can keep projects on track and effectively estimate future ones. Get 50% off your first month when you use the code KMA at GetHarvest.com/kma ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Jul 16, 2024 • 24min
171. Dynamic Strategies for Optimizing Content and UGC
Get ready to optimize your content to its fullest potential. Get the secrets on teasing, releasing, and launching your products with a bang. With tips on creating a content flood to getting the user-generated content you desire, Michelle's insights will help you drive your business toward your goals. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Case Study: Dental Hygiene Nation subscription boxes Content creation process for a campaign The types of teaser content to play with How to optimize your content How to encourage user-generated content (UGC) Analyzing campaign performance Asking for and incorporating feedback ----------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 131: Building a Merch Brand with Caitlyn Rastetter of Dental Hygiene Nation ----------------------- This episode is sponsored by Harvest. Track time and expenses seamlessly so you can keep projects on track and effectively estimate future ones. Get 50% off your first month when you use the code KMA at GetHarvest.com/kma ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Jul 9, 2024 • 39min
170. Branding Short-Term Rentals with Thanks for Visiting
Ever wondered how to transform a mere Airbnb into a guest's dream escape? Join Annette and Sarah of Thanks for Visiting as they dish on the secrets to creating Instagram-worthy stays, reframing your property as a brand, and making every detail count. Whether you're dreaming of buying land or wanting to design properties, this is your go-to guide for creating spaces that guests can't help but rave about. Sarah Karakaian co-founded Thanks For Visiting, a podcast and short-term rental education provider. She began her short-term rental journey with an Airbnb in NYC in 2012, turning a $475K investment into a $875K sale. Her STR designs caught the eye of HGTV, leading to her appearance on Beach Flip. Now, Sarah runs a boutique hosting business in Columbus, Ohio, and along with her co-founder Annette, reaches over 50k STR enthusiasts daily through their podcast with over 2M downloads. Annette Grant is the co-founder of Thanks For Visiting, a short-term rental education provider and podcast. Before this, she transformed a small family-owned painting company into a franchise with 22 locations and expanded an apparel company to 5 retail locations, 120+ employees, and over $40 million in sales. A "host with heart," Annette believes in the importance of hospitality in the short-term rental industry. Alongside Sarah, she provides hosts with tips and education to elevate their businesses and guest experiences. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Sarah and Annette's origin story Where people get lost in marketing rental properties How to be a step ahead of your clients Creating memorable hospitality Influencer Partnerships and Local Marketing Initiatives Effective marketing strategies for short-term rentals Optimizing your host profile on Airbnb Short-term rental predictions ----------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 159: Travel Photography Secrets with Girl Gone Abroad Access the Thanks for Visiting Handbook to start earning as an Airbnb host! ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about Thanks for Visiting, follow them on Instagram @ThanksForVisiting_ and Facebook @ThanksForVisiting and visit their website, ThanksForVisiting.com. ----------------------- This episode is sponsored by Harvest. Track time and expenses seamlessly so you can keep projects on track and effectively estimate future ones. Get 50% off your first month when you use the code KMA at GetHarvest.com/kma ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard