

Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast
Michelle Wintersteen
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.
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.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 5, 2024 • 23min
187. How to Build a Brag-worthy Brand Empire Pt 3
Ready to elevate your brand's aesthetic and tone from basic to bragworthy? Join Michelle in Part 3 of How to Build a Brag-worthy Brand Empire as she digs into these often overlooked aspects of branding. Learn how to stand out by nailing your visuals, sound, and message to ensure your brand looks good and is aligned with its core values. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: The elements of crafting your unique aesthetic and tone The visual style of your brand How to create consistency with your visuals Your brand's signature sound Matching the quality of sound of your brand Creating a sonic logo Defining your brand's message ----------------------- Resources: Episode 134: How to Build Your Brand Architecture Episode 142: Client Case Study: Fit Boss Blueprint with Reuben Brooks Episode 146: My Brand Design Process, Step by Step Episode 156: Creating a Brag-Worthy Brand Strategy Episode 181: How to Build a Brag-worthy Brand Empire Pt 1 Episode 184: How to Build a Brag-worthy Brand Empire Pt 2 ----------------------- 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

Oct 29, 2024 • 31min
186. Branding Lessons from Presidential Campaigns
Ever wondered how presidential campaigns hook us right from the start? This week, learn how to win at marketing like a politician. Tune in as Michelle reveals how transparency, consistency, and bold slogans can make your brand irresistible. Learn why authenticity is your secret weapon and how to rally your audience! ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: The skill sets needed to manage a social media account How Harris and Trump's campaigns have matched their audiences visually The changes in how we find our information over the years TikTok's increase in political content Effective campaign design strategies Consistency and credibility Trump's email newsletter design Misinformation in political campaigns Holding people accountable to AI misuse Why authenticity wins Kamala Harris on the Call Her Daddy podcast Considerations for your own business inspired by political campaigns ----------------------- Resources: Episode 155: Beyond the TikTok Ban ----------------------- This episode is sponsored by Sticker Giant. Elevate your branding with labels and stickers that will attract attention in all of the right ways. Bring your designs to life by visiting StickerGiant.com and using promo code KMAPODCAST for 15% off!! ----------------------- 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

Oct 22, 2024 • 37min
185. Sticker Tips and Trends with StickerGiant
Stick around because this week, Michelle is joined by KB from StickerGiant to discuss why branded stickers could be your business' next secret weapon. From tips on designing the perfect sticker to leveraging stickers as a low-cost marketing tool, you'll learn how stickers increase brand loyalty. KB is the Content Marketing Manager at StickerGiant.com, specializing in all things content. KB's journey in organic social media began while managing a brewery in Colorado Springs. KB's tenure at StickerGiant has been a significant career catalyst, providing opportunities to work with incredible people and grow professionally. The recent StickerGate incident, as coined by some cheeky folks on social media, showcased KB's ability to be timely and address the questions people are asking in a viral way. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: KB's career journey StickerGiant's products Her favorite case studies Creative uses for stickers Stickers and brand visibility Things to be aware of when designing stickers Content marketing and community engagement Navigating online drama while staying true to your values The importance of SMMs having creative freedom Direct mail and catalogs Sticker popularity and trends ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about StickerGiant, follow them on Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook @StickerGiant, and visit their website, StickerGiant.com. ----------------------- 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

Oct 15, 2024 • 24min
184. How to Build a Brag-worthy Brand Empire Pt 2
Ever wondered how to make your brand as memorable as Starbucks' green or Target's red? Discover the secrets to creating brand visuals that look good and stick in everyone's mind. From color schemes to fonts, you'll learn how to build timeless brand visuals. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: The impact of your brand colors Color psychology How to select your brand's colors The six steps of brag-worthy logo design Brand typography that aligns with your brand values Brand patterns & icons ----------------------- Resources: Episode 181: How to Build a Brag-worthy Brand Empire Pt 1 Episode 134: How to Build Your Brand Architecture Episode 142: Client Case Study: Fit Boss Blueprint with Reuben Brooks Episode 146: My Brand Design Process, Step by Step Episode 156: Creating a Brag-Worthy Brand Strategy ----------------------- 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

Oct 8, 2024 • 43min
183. Client Case Study: Lily Par
Step onto the green and join Michelle and Kendall Kinsman in discussing women's activewear and Lily Par's branding project with MKW Creative Co. From lessons as an early-stage entrepreneur to brand vision and the secrets to creating a brand that's not just a store but a destination, get ready for a hole-in-one episode. Kendall Kinsman is the founder and owner of Lily Par, an elevated activewear boutique specializing in golf, tennis and pickleball apparel and accessories. Kendall has curated a collection of brands that provide the necessary function on the course and court so Lily Par customers can look their best, feel their best and play their best. Before starting Lily Par, Kendall worked in corporate finance for over 14 years. As a former Director of Financial Planning & Analysis and Asset Manager of Commercial Real Estate, Kendall was able to develop a wide breadth of technical and interpersonal skills. At Lily Par, Kendall is leveraging her career accomplishments with her passion for golf and fashion ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Kendall's origin story The increase of femininity in activewear Getting started on Lily Par Brand vision and naming Barriers to entry into sports Realizing she needed professional branding Creating a memorable boutique experience Lessons in entrepreneurship Why branding is important Lily Par's 6-12 month plan Brand selectivity ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about Kendall and Lily Par, follow them on Instagram @LilyPar_SD, visit their website, LilyPar.com, and shop in-store when they open at 7606 Gerard Avenue in Downtown La Jolla. ----------------------- 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

Oct 1, 2024 • 38min
182. Effective Website Design with Inkpot Creative
Flip the script on boring website design and create a binge-worthy online presence. Join Michelle and the duo behind Inkpot Creative, KP and Jessie, who are here to inspire you to uplevel your about, portfolio, and landing pages. Unlock the secrets to using personal stories and just the right dash of bold colors to keep visitors hooked. Whether you're a creative looking to polish your digital portfolio or a brand eager to stand out, tune in to make your website a captivating place for connection and engagement. KP and Jessie (both she/her) are the color-obsessed design duo behind Inkpot Creative®, a queer-led design studio building unconventional, impactful brand and website experiences for photographers who are leading their industry by creating something different. They know exactly what it's like to be the loud, bold, colorful outliers in their industry. That's why they partner with creatives who aren't afraid to express themselves loudly and go boldly against the grain. In addition to running Inkpot Creative®, they're the hosts of the Click to Convert Summit, The High-End Wedding Summit, and The Unexpected Entrepreneur Podcast. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Inkpot's origin story Inkpot's offerings How website behaviour has shifted over the years Website non-negotiables To share your prices or to not share your prices on your website Creating a digestible landing page Creating a compelling portfolio page What to add to your about page How to use Dubsado to collect info for clients Trends they're excited about in website design The importance of copywriters Things to think about when starting a rebrand or website ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about KP, Jessie, and Inkpot, follow on TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook @InkpotCreative and visit their website, InkpotCreative.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

Sep 24, 2024 • 24min
181. How to Build a Brag-worthy Brand Empire Pt 1
In part 1 of this 4-part series, Michelle takes you through the branding presentation she created for the Fit Boss Blueprint Summit. Stick around if you want to elevate your re-brand to the next level. Today, you'll learn about defining your brand architecture, from your mission and values to structuring your offers to attract your dream clients and ditch unaligned projects for good. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: How to create a brag-worthy brand empire Defining your values, mission, and vision Building your brand's legacy Attracting people with your brand's personality Considering your ideal clients Structuring your offers Resources: Episode 134: How to Build Your Brand Architecture Episode 142: Client Case Study: Fit Boss Blueprint with Reuben Brooks Episode 146: My Brand Design Process, Step by Step Episode 156: Creating a Brag-Worthy Brand Strategy ----------------------- 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 17, 2024 • 44min
180. Elevate Your PR Game with Maven Consulting
Get ready to streamline your strategy and elevate your brand game with the PR powerhouse Jess Windell. Her and Michelle dive deep into the art of prioritizing tasks, planning holiday campaigns like a pro, and mastering the agile world of PR and marketing. Learn how to seize trends, craft relevant pitches, and draw inspiration from unexpected sources. Plus, hear about her mouth tape brand, Dryft Sleep. Jess Windell is the founder and Chief Maven of Maven Consulting, a full-funnel PR firm for consumer brands, and co-founder of Dryft Sleep, a before-bed sleep consumables brand. After more than a dozen years of honing her skills in-house and at various agencies, Jess launched Maven Consulting in 2020. Her mission? To help consumer brands craft their PR strategies on their own terms and timeline. She believes in "the trifecta" of storytelling—telling the right story, at the right time, to the right audience. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: What drew Jess to PR Roles and responsibilities of an in-house publicist Prioritization and planning in PR Building and maintaining relationships with stakeholders and brands Diagnosing brand opportunities How to stay on top of the trends Doing an in-depth competitor analysis and industry monitoring Her sleep wellness brand, Dryft Sleep Integrating PR with influencer marketing Strategic PR approaches ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about Jess and Maven Consulting, follow on LinkedIn @JessWindell, Instagram @Maven_Consulting and visit their website, MavenConsultingCo.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

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


