
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 26, 2023 • 37min
129. What is a Fractional CMO? with Aimee Schuster
Founders: this one is for you! Today, Michelle is joined by seasoned marketing expert, Aimee Schuster. Together, they dive into juicy subjects, from the power of AI tools in streamlining business processes to the value of in-person interactions in building lasting relationships. Aimee shares insights on being a fractional employee, sales methodologies, and the importance of scalability in sales. Aimee Schuster is an expert at marketing the invisible, having spent the last twenty-five years supporting B2B organizations like Miller Heiman Group, DLA Piper and Homefinder.com build, advance and energize their lead generation programs. Aimee founded Bandwidth Strategy, a fractional CMO and COO consultancy, to help growth-stage organizations drive the right leads into the funnel that result in closed-won business. Aimee uses her experience and a bit of humor and improv (honed as a student at Second City) to create a common language among the all-too-often warring factions of sales and marketing. A go-to voice on sales-marketing alignment and workplace equity, her work has been featured in Fast Company and Business Insider. Tune in to gain valuable knowledge and practical advice for navigating the ever-evolving business landscape! ------------------------- In today's episode, we cover the following: What is a fractional CMO? What is "selling the invisible"? Different stages of marketing funnel for organizations The value of SEO and sales methodologies Top struggles working with founders: AI's impact in the job market Scaling your business beyond yourself Trends in workplace cultures Benefits of working in-person Sources that inspire Aimee's work ----------------------- RESOURCES: Read The E-Myth by Michael E. Gerber Read Built to Sell by John Warrillow ----------------------- Guest info: To learn more about Aimee and her incredible insights on marketing you can follow her on LinkedIn, @AimeeHSchuster website, bandwidthstrategy.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

Sep 19, 2023 • 34min
128. Meet the Team: Online Business Manager Cody Garner-Howe
Please welcome MKW Creative Co's brilliant online business manager and operations and systems strategist, Cody Garner-Howe! In today's episode, Cody discusses the ins and outs of managing and growing an online business. You'll learn about the role of an OBM, creating custom proposals, and implementing effective systems like Dubsado to streamline operations. Whether you're struggling with client management or want to learn about optimizing your business's tech and processes, this episode is a must-listen for small online business owners. Cody Garner-Howe is an operations and systems strategist! What does that mean? She takes a look at how your business is currently running, and searches for improvements in tools, technology, and systems to make your business processes work better for you. Her goal is to help entrepreneurs reclaim their time, make even better business decisions, and improve their product or service delivery to clients. Cody has five years of experience in SaaS and CRM system management for small, medium & enterprise size businesses. She specializes in Dubsado, Microsoft Dynamics 365, and Emarsys, but loves nothing more than learning the ins and outs of a new platform. Tune in to gain valuable insights from Cody's experience and discover new ways to improve your own business! ------------------------- In today's episode, we cover the following: Creating a smooth onboarding process with Dubsado Cody's top organizational tools What is a CRM and the value of tracking your client relationships Day in the life of working with MKW Creative Co. Launching her business and the services she's planning on How an OBM can add that customization for sending off fire proposals How setting up systems allows for smooth client conversations Maintaining team efficiency for success and growth ----------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 119: Meet the team. Video editor Josefina Sign up for Dubsado ----------------------- Guest info: To learn more about Cody, you can follow her on Instagram @CodyOBM, or visit her website, codygarnerhowe.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

Sep 12, 2023 • 26min
127. Common Branding Mistakes
Today we're jumping right into the 8 common mistakes brands make regardless of the type of brand. These are the pitfalls that Michelle has observed during work with her clients, as well as other bands. From the lack of a clear brand identity to not understanding your target audience, we're going to break down each mistake and pair it with valuable insights to level up your branding and marketing game. If these resonate with you, please share this episode to your stories! ------------------------- In today's episode, we cover the following: Mistake #1: A lack of brand identity Mistake #2: Not understanding your target audience Mistake #3: Putting all of your eggs in one social media basket Mistake #4: Not repeating yourself enough Mistake #5: Ignoring your audience feedback Mistake #6: Inconsistent in messaging and copy Mistake #7: Changing your ideas too often Mistake #8: Not taking risks ----------------------- ----------------------- 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 5, 2023 • 29min
126. 2023 Cymbiotika San Diego Open with Ryan Redondo
Attention, tennis fans and newbies! Get ready for the ultimate week of excitement, athleticism, and pure entertainment at this year's Cymbiotika San Diego Open. This episode is your one-stop-shop for all the info you need for the event and we're joined by Tournament Director, Ryan Redondo. Ryan shares what you can expect, their partnership with Cymbiotika, plus how the San Diego Open is community-focused. If you're in the San Diego area you'll want to explore this thrilling event where tennis meets fun, health, and community. Ryan Redondo is the Tournament Director for the 2023 Cymbiotika San Diego Open. Additionally, Ryan is the CEO of Youth Tennis San Diego, the 501c3 non-profit organization that owns and operates the Barnes Tennis Center where the event is held. The Barnes Tennis Center is a two-time National Facility of the Year recipient in the last three years and serves over 10,000 children throughout the city of San Diego. Ryan is also the CEO of Taktika Padel and the San Diego Stingrays (franchise in the Pro Padel League). Taktika Padel is the largest proprietor of Padel operations in the United States. Ryan is a two-time All-American out of San Diego State University and is dedicated to promoting and serving the city of San Diego through racquet sports. ------------------------- In today's episode, we cover the following: What the Cymbiotika San Diego Open is An overview of the week: What to expect The partnership with Cymbiotika Exploring the theme for the event: Women in Wellness How Ryan has seen the WTA grow over the years How important branding is for an event Players to look out for this year The value of the Cymbiotika San Diego Open for the community ----------------------- RESOURCES: Buy tickets to this year's Cymbiotika San Diego Open ----------------------- Guest info: To learn more about the Cymbiotika San Diego Open, follow them on Instagram @SanDiegoOpen and Facebook@SanDiegoOpenSD, or visit their website, wtasdopen.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

Aug 29, 2023 • 51min
125. Bday Boxes and Aesthetic Themes with Sarah Wintersteen of Sistered States
How did Michelle's 30th birthday boxes garner popularity on TikTok? How can you create a themed event that allows your creative power to flow? We'll dive into all this and more on today's episode! Today, Michelle is joined by her sister Sarah—a wedding planner and the owner of Sistered States. They dive into how they PR'd Michelle's 30th birthday boxes, which were carefully curated to celebrate her friends, set the tone, and take a refreshing spin on bridesmaid boxes. If you're interested in the wedding side of things, Sarah shares her insights on the value of selecting a theme to go deep in the planning. As the owner of Sistered States, Sarah has over 6 years of experience producing weddings and events in the Dallas area and beyond. Her previous industry experience includes working for an event venue, a wedding florist, and an invitation company, which has given Sarah an extensive understanding of how to successfully execute an event from many different disciplines. Sarah has spent years cultivating relationships with the industry's top professionals to ensure the highest quality of service on your wedding day. Sistered States produces every scale of events, ranging from large formal wedding receptions to small intimate parties. ------------------------- In today's episode, we cover the following: Selecting a vacation home: the importance of location and aesthetics Creating an invitation box that both celebrates the receiver and sets the tone of your event Tiptoeing the line between relatable and aspirational Sarah's thoughts on the wedding industry How she'd go around creating a Barbie-themed wedding that is not kitschy Designing a wedding welcome bag Using TikTok to create organic and unique behind-the-scenes wedding content Trend alerts: handwritten stationery and maximalism Creating memorable experiences ----------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 118: How To Pitch Episode 081: Life According To Travel Wedding Planner Sistered States ---------------------- Guest info: To follow Sarah's destination wedding adventures, you can follow her on Instagram and TikTok @SisteredStates, or visit her website, sisteredstates.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

Aug 22, 2023 • 48min
124. Scaling as a Freelancer with Sydney Edwards of Seeside Creative
If you're a freelancer and feel discouraged by a lack of work: this episode is required listening! Today, Michelle is joined by Sydney Edwards of Seeside Creative. She shares advice on determining project pricing, finding recurring clients, and prioritizing happiness in the freelance industry. Plus, Sydney dives into the importance of expanding your network and setting boundaries. So, whether you're a freelancer looking to level up or simply curious about the business side of creativity, this episode is just for you! Sydney Edwards is a seasoned creative entrepreneur with a passion for helping content creators and e-commerce brands strategize, dive into their analytics, and grow their revenue. As the founder of Seeside Creative, Sydney combines her design, marketing, and strategy expertise to provide tailored solutions for her clients. With a focus on building long-term relationships and a data-driven approach, she helps businesses not only thrive but connect with their customers. ------------------------- In today's episode, we cover the following: Sydney's origin story and how she helps her clients Michelle and Sydney's collaboration with Hotel Lobby Candle Lessons learned since starting her business Finding the balance and reigning it in when necessary Brands leaning into micro-influencers to bring in more revenue Maintaining and building client relationships Starting as a freelancer and pricing yourself: first, get paid to learn Work and travel: structuring your business in alignment with the lifestyle you desire ----------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 113: Hotel Lobby Candle with Lindsay Silberman Want branding, marketing, or entrepreneurship advice? Leave Michelle a voicemail on SpeakPipe for a chance to have your question answered on the podcast! ----------------------- Guest info: To follow Sydney's journey, you can follow her on Instagram @SeesideCreative, or visit her website, seesidecreative.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

Aug 15, 2023 • 38min
123. Financially Fit with Shay Bacani
In today's episode, Michelle is joined by money expert Shay Bacani. Together, they dive into the world of financial fitness, and Shay shares valuable insights on managing your business finances effectively. From the significance of setting up proper bank accounts to pricing services and navigating the world of AI, you'll be ready to start navigating this ever-changing financial landscape. Shay Bacani is a renowned CFO and Financial Strategist with a focus on multi 6 to 8-figure brands. With over half a decade of experience in corporate accounting and finance at Fortune 500 companies, coupled with serving over 100 clients, Shay's passion lies in guiding women towards sustaining and retaining their wealth while building legacy businesses. Her specialization in wealth retention and management brings an abundance of knowledge and a proven track record to each client she serves. Shay is dedicated to empowering female-led brands on a global scale, helping them become more powerful and profitable. Get ready to kiss financial stress goodbye and embrace your business's financial success. ------------------------- In today's episode, we cover the following: Shay's origin story Women business owners and the shame of not knowing how to approach finances Glossary of terms to know if you're new to financial literacy Separating yourself from your business The lack of transparency with certain businesses on social media The caution and excitement that AI brings AI and banking (plus the importance of data security!) The power of context when engaging with ChatGPT ----------------------- RESOURCES: Head over to Shay's Instagram @CentureFinancial for her Financial Foundations Masterclass. ----------------------- Guest info: To learn more about Shay and her fantastic financial insights, you can follow her on Instagram @CentureFinancial and TikTok @ShayInFinance, or visit her website www.centurefinancial.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

Aug 8, 2023 • 28min
122. Producing a Photo/Video Shoot
It's finally here! You've been asking for this episode since the MKW Creative Co. team had their brand photo/video shoot back in April. In today's solo episode, Michelle covers all the planning she did to prepare for the shoot to create a unique and evergreen library for content planning. You'll hear everything that went into the pitch deck and things to consider, from specific shots to capturing the little moments, plus how she steered away from creating a stiff and campy vibe. ------------------------- In today's episode, we cover the following: Things to consider when planning a photo/video shoot What was included in the deck, Michelle sent to VIBEHAUS so they knew the vision Honing in on the goals of the shoot The types of desired shots and locations Having a dress code for you and your team Capturing B-rolls Showcasing each team member and their voice/perspective Don't forget to add in the fun ----------------------- RESOURCES: Hire VIBEHAUS for your brand's next photo/video shoot ----------------------- 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

5 snips
Aug 1, 2023 • 50min
121. Let's Thread with Ashli Pollard
With Twitter, or X, slowly falling off people's radars, Threads has swept in and brought life to social media again! But how do you approach it as a business owner? 🤔 In today's episode, we welcome marketing expert Ashli Pollard back to the podcast! Ashli tackles the latest thing in social, Threads, and how to use it as part of your brand's personality (hint: your brand does NOT need to be comedic like Duolingo or Wendy's). Tune in and learn some tips on showing up authentically as a business owner on socials and building your community! Ashli Pollard brings her 10 years working for major product brands like Prada, Rebecca Minkoff, and Sam Edelman in New York City to her entrepreneurship membership The Do-ers, and her marketing agency Dial Zero Marketing. ------------------------- In today's episode, we cover the following: How her business has evolved What Threads is and what it does right Don't do your business like Facebook Why Threads shows how strong your brand voice is The freeing element of Threads Brands who are killing the brand voice game The end of direct sales and the art of community Breaking down: stopping the strategy of sharing proof of revenue and pressure of creating a course Imposter syndrome and not comparing your day 1 to someone's day 5000 Starting a podcast ----------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 085: Life According to Business Consultant Ashli Pollard Apply to be in the next cohort of The Roundtable 2024 Join The Do-ers Scroll down and take the 2-minute Business Archetype Quiz ----------------------- Guest info: To learn more about Ashli's fantastic insights on marketing, you can follow her TikTok @ashli_p, and her team on Instagram @teamapconsulting and visit their website, teamap.consulting. ----------------------- 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 25, 2023 • 39min
120. Canva and Pinterest with Brodi-Rose Newsome
Hot tips for Canva AND Pinterest packed into one bite-sized episode? 🤯 From creation to lead-gen and pivoting your business with the rise of new technology, Brodi-Rose dives into the value of Canva in the world of accessibility and convenience, plus why Pinterest shouldn't be falling off the radar of service-based business owners. Bro is the Creative Director of Brodi-Rose Creative Co, a design agency focusing on building brands for vibrant and bold businesses. As a qualified Graphic Designer and approved Canva Creator, Bro has worked with businesses to deliver custom Branding built in Adobe, with tangible, editable Canva Templates that allow her clients to use their assets. Bro has built a portfolio of over 100+ brands, with a Pinterest monthly views base of 3-4 million. Bro is driven to help women who are hell-bent on creating a lifestyle that isn't tied to a desk, traditions, expectations or the "that's just how it's always been done" way. The renegades, the powerhouses, the rule-breakers, the take-the-path-less-beaten ones. Bro is based in Queensland, Australia, and works with brands worldwide to create visual identities that stand out from the crowd. ------------------------- In today's episode, we cover the following: Canva 101 How Canva has made design accessible What makes a good Canva template? Canva's latest AI features Creative assets and passive income opportunities Commercial licensing on Canva Which features to focus on Pinterest Usage rights on Pinterest Using Pinterest with your clients for brand inspo Canva and Pinterest hot tips! ----------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 065: Life According to Canva Designer Brodi-Rose Newsome Score FREE access to the Canva Brand Hub Masterclass, 6 Canva Hacks for your business, and 10 x FREE Canva Reel Cover templates, when you subscribe to Brodi-Rose's email list! Learn how to leverage Canva with Canva Fundamentals for Small Business ----------------------- Guest info: To learn more about Brodi-Rose's fantastic insights, you can follow her on Instagram @brodirose and TikTok@BrodiRoseCreativeCo, or visit her website at Brodi-Rose.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