

Brand You Personal Branding
Mike Kim
The Brand You Podcast with Mike Kim helps you showcase your unique expertise and build a profitable business around your personal brand. Each episode blends real-world strategy with actionable tips in personal branding, marketing, copywriting, consulting, business, and coaching — so you can attract the right clients, grow your influence, and do more of the work you love.
Mike Kim is the Wall Street Journal best-selling author of You Are the Brand, a proven guidebook that has helped entrepreneurs, consultants, coaches, and creators position themselves as trusted authorities in their field. As a sought-after speaker and marketing strategist, Mike has worked with industry leaders, NYT bestselling authors, and influential organizations to craft messaging that moves people to action.
With years of hands-on experience in branding, direct response marketing, and high-level consulting, Mike distills what he’s learned into clear, practical advice — so you can stop feeling stuck, clarify your message, and build a business that’s unmistakably you.
Mike Kim is the Wall Street Journal best-selling author of You Are the Brand, a proven guidebook that has helped entrepreneurs, consultants, coaches, and creators position themselves as trusted authorities in their field. As a sought-after speaker and marketing strategist, Mike has worked with industry leaders, NYT bestselling authors, and influential organizations to craft messaging that moves people to action.
With years of hands-on experience in branding, direct response marketing, and high-level consulting, Mike distills what he’s learned into clear, practical advice — so you can stop feeling stuck, clarify your message, and build a business that’s unmistakably you.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 21, 2025 • 14min
450: Life Beyond Business - Why I’m Taking a (Hopefully) Life-Changing Trip to Africa
In this episode, I open up about my decision to travel to Uganda—a trip that’s less about adventure and more about reconnecting with what truly matters. After more than a decade in an industry that glorifies success and appearances, I’ve found myself searching for deeper meaning and alignment in life and work. This journey represents a step away from “life as usual” and into the unknown. Why a decade of success left me craving something deeper—and how I’m answering that call. The surprising lesson marketing has taught me about truth, appearances, and connection. What it means to step outside the familiar and embrace the courage to feel again. How personal growth and outgrowing work can lead to greater alignment and purpose. A powerful question for you: What’s calling you to reconnect with your life’s deeper meaning? Connect with Me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Twitter YouTube Follow and Review: I’d love for you to follow me on Apple Podcasts if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks!

Jan 14, 2025 • 37min
449: The Director’s Cut of My Book: A Fresh Look at 'You Are the Brand'
Discover how to breathe new life into your book by creating a unique 'director's cut' to engage readers personally. Learn why YouTube is the ideal platform for authors to connect with audiences. Explore the emotional side of branding and the art of storytelling, with insights on strategic business growth. Uncover innovative pricing strategies that boost marketing effectiveness and conversion rates. Hear how personal stories can transform relationships and enhance brand connections.

Jan 7, 2025 • 24min
448: 7 Lessons from a Decade in Full-Time Business for Myself
In this first episode of 2025, I reflect on a decade of being in business full-time (I went full time in August of 2015). This is an honest look at what it truly takes to build a life and business that align with your values. Whether you're just starting out or a seasoned entrepreneur, I hope these stories and insights will inspire you to live and work with greater intention. The 7 Lessons: Pain Pushes Until the Vision Pulls Honor Your Convictions and Make Decisions You'll be Proud of Later Sh*t Happens... And It Can Also Be a Great Fertilizer for Your Future Know Thyself, Entrepreneurship is Full of Emotional Whiplash Relationships Are Rocketships but Also Safe Havens You Can't Always Play 100% Through Pain The Way Out of Your Head is Through Your Heart Connect with Me on Social: Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Twitter YouTube Follow and Review: I’d love for you to follow me on Apple Podcasts if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Thanks!

7 snips
Dec 3, 2024 • 18min
447: How I Matched My Day Job Income—and Left Corporate Life Behind
Dreaming of ditching your 9-to-5? Discover how to match your side hustle income with your corporate salary before taking the leap. Learn the art of resourcefulness, turning early mornings into productive hours. Explore the significance of testing different income streams while still employed. Mentorship is a game changer—find out how masterminds can propel your success. Plus, leverage your day job to enhance your entrepreneurial journey. Ready to transform your life?

Nov 26, 2024 • 9min
446: What Pro Wrestling Taught Me About Breaking the Hustle Cycle
In this episode, we explore the drawbacks of hustle culture and the importance of integrating rest into our lives for sustainability. Through my experience with professional wrestling, I learned how relentless work without breaks can lead to burnout. The episode encourages listeners to rethink their approach to work by simulating urgent scenarios to practice delegation and task management. By prioritizing relationships and commitments that truly matter, the episode advocates for a balanced lifestyle where taking intentional breaks is essential. Tune in to gain insights on crafting a fulfilling life that doesn't compromise well-being. In this episode, you will hear about: Challenging the relentless hustle culture and embracing the necessity of rest. Using high-stakes scenarios to practice delegation and task management. The importance of prioritizing meaningful relationships and commitments. Personal experiences about stepping back for a balanced life. The importance of rest for sustainable productivity and well-being. Connect with Me on Social Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Twitter YouTube Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

Nov 19, 2024 • 17min
445: When the Life You Thought You’d Have Isn’t the Life You End Up With
In today’s episode, I get real about how my life hasn’t turned out the way I expected—and how that’s okay. I’ve spent a lot of time questioning the “standard” path of success and realizing that it’s not always the one we’re meant to walk. I f you’ve ever felt like your life isn’t going as planned, or if you’ve wondered if you’re climbing the right mountain, this episode is for you. I’ll share how I came to embrace my unique journey and why not giving up, even when it’s hard, is the key to finding fulfillment. I talk about why it’s okay to let go of the idea of success that everyone else follows and how to create your own path. I share the moment when I met a mentor who helped me realize that the career I thought I wanted wasn’t the one for me. I dive into how loneliness and self-doubt can be part of the journey—and why they’re worth facing head-on. Learn why it’s crucial to invest in your personal growth, even when the results aren’t immediate. If you’ve ever felt lost or uncertain, I hope my story will encourage you to keep going and remind you that you’re not alone. If you’re in a season of uncertainty, feeling like you’re not measuring up, or just needing a little encouragement, this episode is for you. Tune in and let’s talk about what it really means to grow, learn, and create a future that feels right for you.

Nov 12, 2024 • 26min
444: The Big 5 Every Business Should Prepare For - Death, Disability, Divorce, Disagreement, and Retirement
In this episode, Robby and I explore essential strategies for strengthening both business and personal relationships. We emphasize the importance of preparing for the "big five" challenges — death, disability, divorce, disagreement, and retirement — by having effective contingency plans in place. Drawing from the wisdom of mentor Marissa Nielsen and real-life examples, we underscore the value of trust, perseverance, and a supportive network when facing life's unpredictable challenges. Listeners can expect practical advice on creating a resilient business structure and nurturing meaningful partnerships, ensuring stability and continuity in times of adversity. In this episode, you will hear: Strategies for overcoming the "big five" challenges in business partnerships. Importance of having robust contingency plans for unforeseen events in both personal and business contexts. The role of shared history, trust, and genuine collaboration in building resilient relationships. Utilizing sports analogies to emphasize perseverance, teamwork, and adaptability in relationships. Significance of assembling a supportive network and maintaining a "legacy binder" for effective crisis management. The balance between emotional empathy and professional responsibilities in partnerships. The value of choosing partners wisely and fostering collaborations that go beyond transactional relationships. Connect with Me on Social Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Twitter YouTube Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

Nov 5, 2024 • 7min
443: Atmospheric Re-Entry - A Tiny Hack to Completely Change Your Post-Travel Blues
Travel can be exhilarating, but what happens when the excitement fades, and you're left with the quiet solitude of home? In this episode, we delve into "atmospheric re-entry," a process of easing back into daily life after the highs of travel. Learn how to make coming home just as fulfilling as the journey itself with these insightful strategies. Explore the concept of "atmospheric re-entry" and why it’s more common than we think. Find out why a simple Amazon order can be the secret to a smoother homecoming. Learn Mike’s creative tips for giving purpose to your return, even if you live alone. Get insights on focusing on who’s there rather than who’s not—turning loneliness into connection. Discover how sharing small mementos can make your travel more meaningful for those around you. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just beginning, these strategies will help you create a more fulfilling experience both on the road and when you return. Connect with Me on Social Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Twitter YouTube Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

Oct 29, 2024 • 30min
442: Why Live Events are the Secret Weapon to Highly Engaged Coaching Programs and Communities
In this episode, Robby and I discuss the art of creating unforgettable live community events. We explore the power of in-person gatherings, highlighting their ability to foster stronger community connections and energize participants. From the strategic integration of events early in a program's lifecycle to planning successful standalone gatherings, we share tips on managing costs, maintaining engagement, and adding value. The discussion also covers the dynamics of hybrid events and the importance of allowing fresh perspectives to invigorate the community. Whether you're running coaching groups, masterminds, or membership sites, this episode offers strategies for maximizing the impact of your live events and leaving lasting impressions on attendees. In this episode, you will hear: The importance of integrating live events early in a program to boost engagement. The role of informal side conversations in enhancing attendee experiences. About planning and managing costs for successful standalone live events. Dynamics and benefits of hybrid events and inviting external participants. About crafting meaningful in-person experiences that align with community goals. Connect with Me on Social Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Twitter YouTube Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.

Oct 22, 2024 • 18min
441: The Only 3 Ways to Make More Money in Your Personal Brand Business
Listen in to a discussion on maximizing your business's revenue while fostering genuine community connections. This episode explores strategic methods for boosting profits through smart pricing, the significance of personal branding, and the art of creating meaningful relationships beyond mainstream platforms. Learn how to navigate the complexities of a diverse product suite and focus on authentic engagement to elevate your business. Join us for an in-depth look into business strategy and community building that promises to transform the way you connect with your audience and drive your business forward. In this episode, you will: Discover why raising prices might be your simplest path to increased profitability and how to do it effectively. Learn the critical role of copywriting in the personal brand and thought leader space. Hear a personal story about a failed Facebook group attempt and the lessons learned in streamlining and focus. Find out how to build and nurture communities outside of Facebook and YouTube. Explore the importance of clarity in your offers: Are you teaching fundamentals, skills, or mastery? Connect with Me on Social Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Twitter YouTube Follow and Review: We’d love for you to follow us if you haven’t yet. Click that purple '+' in the top right corner of your Apple Podcasts app. We’d love it even more if you could drop a review or 5-star rating over on Apple Podcasts. Simply select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” then a quick line with your favorite part of the episode. It only takes a second and it helps spread the word about the podcast. Episode Credits If you like this podcast and are thinking of creating your own, consider talking to my producer, Emerald City Productions. They helped me grow and produce the podcast you are listening to right now. Find out more at https://emeraldcitypro.com. Let them know we sent you.