

Your Brand Amplified
Anika Jackson, Bleav
Welcome to Your Brand Amplified® – the podcast that takes you behind the scenes of successful businesses, exploring the minds of entrepreneurs, business leaders, marketers and sales experts. I'm thrilled to be your host, Anika Jackson, and I'm on a mission to uncover the stories, strategies, and secrets that have propelled these individuals to success.
Tune in to hear the captivating journeys of our guests. From humble beginnings to industry titans, each episode unravels the unique narrative of how these remarkable individuals navigated the world of entrepreneurship, small business, and marketing.
Gain exclusive insights into the strategies that drive success in the business world. Our guests share their tested and proven methods, offering you a wealth of knowledge to implement in your own entrepreneurial endeavors.
Delve into the world of marketing with our expert guests. Whether it's digital, content, or influencer marketing, we cover it all. Stay ahead of the curve and learn the latest trends and techniques to elevate your brand.
Public relations is a key component of any successful business. Learn from seasoned professionals about building and maintaining a positive public image, navigating crises, and leveraging PR to amplify your brand's voice.
Craft Your Business strategy is the backbone of sustainable growth. Our guests share their strategic insights, providing you with the tools and knowledge to formulate and execute effective business plans.
Elevate your business acumen, amplify your brand, and be inspired by the stories of those who have turned their visions into reality.
Tune in to hear the captivating journeys of our guests. From humble beginnings to industry titans, each episode unravels the unique narrative of how these remarkable individuals navigated the world of entrepreneurship, small business, and marketing.
Gain exclusive insights into the strategies that drive success in the business world. Our guests share their tested and proven methods, offering you a wealth of knowledge to implement in your own entrepreneurial endeavors.
Delve into the world of marketing with our expert guests. Whether it's digital, content, or influencer marketing, we cover it all. Stay ahead of the curve and learn the latest trends and techniques to elevate your brand.
Public relations is a key component of any successful business. Learn from seasoned professionals about building and maintaining a positive public image, navigating crises, and leveraging PR to amplify your brand's voice.
Craft Your Business strategy is the backbone of sustainable growth. Our guests share their strategic insights, providing you with the tools and knowledge to formulate and execute effective business plans.
Elevate your business acumen, amplify your brand, and be inspired by the stories of those who have turned their visions into reality.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 10, 2025 • 40min
Mastering Content Strategy with Emily Aborn: The Balance of Soil, Water, Sunshine, and Wind
Emily Aborn, a copywriter and podcaster, shares valuable insights into building a successful content marketing strategy. Her four-part content framework—soil, water, sunshine, and wind—focuses on balancing foundational content, educational material, personal stories, and promotional efforts. Emily emphasizes the importance of understanding both your brand and your audience to create content that resonates and drives results.
A key takeaway from Emily's journey is the shift from product features to emotional benefits in marketing. By framing messages around how products or services make customers feel, businesses can forge stronger emotional connections, ultimately leading to greater engagement and loyalty. Emily also highlights the significance of embracing new mediums, like podcasting, and the value of staying open to networking and learning in order to grow your business.
If you’re eager to dive deeper into content creation strategies, check out Emily's podcast, Content with Character. Start listening today and take your content marketing to the next level!
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Feb 7, 2025 • 20min
Allan Knight’s Birthday Special: The Importance of Relationships, Gratitude and Personal Growth
Birthdays and life milestones offer powerful moments for reflection, growth, and self-awareness. These occasions invite us to pause and evaluate our progress, not just in terms of external achievements, but in recognizing our personal development, self-care, and the importance of self-love. Taking time to reflect on our journey allows us to celebrate our strengths, acknowledge our weaknesses, and make a commitment to continue evolving as individuals. It's through this process of introspection that we foster a deeper connection with ourselves and the people around us. Allan Knight, a former Zen Monk, along with Anika Jackson, Zen Power Coach in Training, guide individuals through this process in the Zen Activation Program.
Self-care and personal growth are essential components of living a fulfilling life. Practicing self-love, embracing discomfort, and stepping out of our comfort zones are all vital in unlocking new levels of inner freedom. Personal development requires ongoing effort and reflection, as we learn to appreciate our qualities and take responsibility for our growth. Humility also plays a key role, reminding us that no matter how much we've achieved, there's always more to learn and experience.
As you move forward in your own journey, take time to reflect on your personal qualities and growth. Identify what truly makes you proud and celebrate your accomplishments. Consider what areas of your life you'd like to develop further and challenge yourself to step outside of your comfort zone. By embracing self-love and prioritizing personal growth, you can cultivate a life of fulfillment and inner freedom. Now is the time to write down your top three personal qualities and set your intentions for the future—start today and continue growing with purpose.
Share your feedback and submit questions for future episodes.
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For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar

Feb 6, 2025 • 22min
Paul Halme’s Approach to Financial Education for Kids: Credit, Apps, and Wealth-Building Strategies
We’re bringing back one of our favorite episodes packed with an inspiring journey of Paul Halme, an entrepreneur and bestselling author, as he shares his inspiring journey from struggling with a negative money mindset to achieving financial freedom through smart credit management and investing. Paul emphasizes the importance of understanding credit, paying off balances monthly, and using tools like automatic payments to stay on track. His transformation from financial hardship to wealth-building serves as a powerful reminder that anyone can take control of their finances with the right strategies.
Paul also highlights the importance of teaching financial literacy to the next generation. By using apps like Apple Card, he introduces his children to credit management in an engaging and fun way. He encourages parents to start financial education early, fostering open conversations with their kids about money, savings, and credit. This proactive approach to financial literacy equips the younger generation with the knowledge they need to make informed financial decisions as they grow.
For those ready to take charge of their financial future, Paul offers practical advice, such as starting small with investments and setting up automatic payments to stay on top of credit. His story proves that financial success is attainable with consistent action and a positive mindset. Take the first step today by visiting his website for more tips, or start small by setting up automatic payments and investing in your future. Your financial freedom journey begins now!
This is a replay of our Giving Kredit Podcast, and we’re thrilled to share it again with you!
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For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar

Feb 5, 2025 • 31min
Stop Selling, Start Sharing: Kara Duffy’s Guide to Growing Your Business with Purpose
Join us and be inspired in this replay episode from Women Acquiring Assets, featuring Kara Duffy, business coach and founder of Powerful Ladies, as she shares invaluable insights from her 20+ years of experience in the footwear and apparel industry, as well as her journey into coaching creative entrepreneurs. Kara emphasizes the importance of effective time management through her "Automate, Delegate, Delete" strategy, highlighting how entrepreneurs can free up time to focus on growth. She also discusses the power of building a strong team, revealing how a small, well-supported team can vastly increase a business’s revenue potential.
Kara further stresses the importance of community and mentorship for business success, encouraging listeners to build a "support squad" of peers and mentors. She introduces the concept of a "value ladder," which allows entrepreneurs to offer services at various price points to meet the needs of a diverse audience. In addition, Kara speaks candidly about the importance of diversity and inclusion, mentioning her Powerful Ladies initiatives, including discussions on racism and empowerment for women of color entrepreneurs.
Kara's journey is a powerful call to action for entrepreneurs to reflect on their goals, prioritize building a support network, and take intentional steps toward their dreams. If you're looking for support and resources to help you scale your business, join the Powerful Ladies community. Together, we can grow, empower, and inspire one another toward greater success.
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For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar

Feb 4, 2025 • 31min
Bridging Business and Data Science with Clean Data: Mark Budzinski’s Blueprint for Successful Business Analytics
Mark Budzinski, founder of Clean Data, offers valuable insights into the intersection of AI, data analytics, and business strategy. With a background in data science and engineering, he emphasizes that while AI presents immense opportunities for businesses, human input remains essential in translating complex data into actionable strategies. He highlights the need for "AI translators"—individuals who can bridge the gap between technical data scientists and C-suite executives to ensure AI serves broader business goals. Mark’s book, Peer to Peer Culture, further expands on the idea of fostering authentic relationships within organizations, showing how collaborative environments can enhance the use of data in decision-making.
In addition to his expertise in AI and data analytics, Mark advocates for fostering a peer-to-peer culture within businesses, where authentic relationships drive collaboration and effective decision-making. He believes that creating an environment of trust and open communication enhances the value of data and empowers teams to leverage analytics for business success. For small to medium enterprises, Mark encourages a strategic, long-term approach to data management and AI implementation, urging companies to assess their existing data infrastructure, define clear business objectives, and seek external expertise when necessary.
If you're ready to optimize your business through data-driven insights, now is the time to start. Visit Clean Data and take the first step toward improving your data systems, enhancing your AI strategy, and fostering a collaborative culture within your organization. Let Mark’s expert advice guide you in building a solid foundation for business growth in the age of AI and analytics.
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For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar

Feb 3, 2025 • 30min
Jamie Mittelman’s Journey: Empowering Women in Sports Through Flame Bearers Media
Jamie Mittelman, founder of Flame Bearers, is revolutionizing the media landscape by amplifying the voices of women athletes from around the world. Through her platform, she’s challenging the long-standing underrepresentation of female athletes in the media by sharing their powerful stories across video, podcasts, and live events. Flame Bearers not only highlights top athletes but focuses on human interest stories, including para-athletes and those from less mainstream sports, shifting the narrative around women’s sports from being a charity to a celebrated and integral part of the athletic world.
Jamie’s journey as an entrepreneur has been both inspiring and challenging, marked by the importance of surrounding herself with the right team and maintaining a clear focus on community-building. Flame Bearers is poised to expand its reach through partnerships with major streaming platforms, immersive documentary series, and live events that will further unite fans, athletes, and advocates of women’s sports. At the heart of Jamie’s work is a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that all women athletes are represented and celebrated in media.
Join her mission to empower women in sports by following them on social media and engaging with their community. Explore more about the stories they tell and the future they’re building by visiting their website at Flame Bearers. Be part of the change and help them elevate the voices of women athletes worldwide.
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For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar

Jan 31, 2025 • 28min
Overcoming the Blame Culture: Political Discourse with Compassion
In today's increasingly divisive political climate, cultivating inner clarity and self-responsibility is essential for navigating both personal and societal challenges. Blame culture has taken root in politics, with many focusing on assigning fault rather than seeking solutions. This toxic cycle stifles meaningful discourse and deepens societal divisions. To move beyond blame, individuals are encouraged to engage in self-reflection and compassion, focusing on finding common ground and fostering respectful, solution-oriented dialogue, even with political opponents. Allan Knight, a former Zen Monk, along with Anika Jackson, Zen Power Coach in Training, guide individuals through this process in the Zen Activation Program.
A crucial aspect of personal well-being is the practice of self-appreciation, which involves reflecting on one’s qualities and achievements to build self-worth and gratitude. This positive mindset not only boosts self-esteem but also encourages a healthier approach to challenges. Alongside this, mindfulness practices such as chanting offer tools for emotional balance and clarity. Simple chants can help calm the mind, reduce stress, and improve resilience in the face of external pressures.
Ultimately, personal growth and mindful communication offer transformative ways to address modern political and societal issues. By practicing compassion, mindfulness, and self-reflection, individuals can rise above polarization, foster deeper connections, and contribute to a more balanced, harmonious world. These practices empower individuals to navigate life's complexities with greater peace, purpose, and understanding, creating a foundation for a more compassionate and effective society.
Share your feedback and submit questions for future episodes.
We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?
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Start your trial on Simplified.
For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar

Jan 30, 2025 • 21min
Nate Turner’s Blueprint for Raising Future Leaders: Financial Education, Scholarships, and Global Citizenship
We’re bringing back one of our favorite episodes packed with an inspiring journey of Nate Turner, an entrepreneur and advocate for parental empowerment, emphasizing the importance of early financial education in shaping children's futures. Drawing inspiration from his own parenting journey, Turner shares how he and his wife intentionally prepared their son for success by prioritizing academic skills, global citizenship, and financial responsibility. His son’s impressive academic achievements, including admission offers from 27 top universities and millions in scholarships, reflect the positive impact of this holistic approach to parenting.
Turner believes that parents should take an active role as the directors of their children's lives, guiding them through critical discussions about money, college affordability, and future planning. He advocates for incorporating financial literacy into daily life, where children are taught the value of money, budgeting, and decision-making. His initiative, the League of Extraordinary Parents, aims to empower parents with the tools and resources they need to lead these conversations and equip their children for a successful future.
Explore resources at NathanielATurner.com to learn more about empowering children and building a lasting legacy. Take action today by starting financial conversations at home and seeking out innovative tools that promote financial literacy for the whole family.
This is a replay of our Giving Kredit Podcast, and we’re thrilled to share it again with you!
We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?
Visit our website!
Start your trial on Simplified.
For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar

Jan 29, 2025 • 37min
Building a Legacy with Crystal Swearingen: Balancing Real Estate and Business
Join us and be inspired in this replay episode from Women Acquiring Assets, featuring Crystal Swearingen’s entrepreneurial journey - a powerful example of resilience, empowerment, and financial independence. From her beginnings in real estate, motivated by childhood housing insecurity, to launching multiple businesses, including her real estate brokerage, a jazz lounge, and Crystal’s Famous Cobbler, Crystal’s story is one of overcoming adversity and using her experiences to inspire others. She believes strongly in the power of women’s financial empowerment, particularly in how women’s wealth is growing faster than men’s, and she uses her platform to advocate for transparent financial communication and self-education.
Through her ventures, Crystal has learned the importance of minimizing expenses, building businesses with integrity, and prioritizing communication—whether it’s with clients, lenders, or family. Her experiences navigating challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic have taught her the value of adapting quickly and remaining transparent in tough times. Crystal encourages other women entrepreneurs to invest in their growth, stay true to their values, and support each other through platforms like The Spot Mag, which celebrates women in business and provides valuable resources to small businesses.
If you’re inspired by her story and the actionable insights she shares, take the next step in your own entrepreneurial journey. Start by educating yourself, connecting with like-minded individuals, and exploring resources that can help you thrive. Whether it’s launching your own business, supporting women in entrepreneurship, or simply learning more about financial independence, Crystal’s example shows that with the right mindset and determination, you too can make your dreams a reality.
We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?
Visit our website!
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For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar

Jan 28, 2025 • 41min
LinkedIn Growth and Authentic Engagement: Colin Hirdman on Building with Rainmaker
The entrepreneurial path of Colin Hirdman is defined by a passion for taking risks, learning from failures, and seizing new opportunities. From co-founding Monkey Island Ventures right after college to launching successful ventures like Local Tweeps, there is a strong emphasis on the importance of testing ideas in the market. He believes that failure is an essential part of growth and advocates for a “fail fast, learn quickly, and pivot” approach in business.
One of Hirdman’s standout ventures, Rainmaker, offers a unique solution to LinkedIn automation. Unlike many tools that rely on spammy tactics, Rainmaker prioritizes authenticity and meaningful engagement. The approach revolves around understanding the pain points of your target audience and offering value through educational content. This method helps build genuine relationships, increase reach, and ultimately drive leads and sales.
For those looking to expand their professional networks and grow their businesses on LinkedIn, Rainmaker offers a powerful solution. If you’re interested in learning how to optimize your LinkedIn engagement and generate leads, visit his website to get more educated on the strategies that can help you grow your network, leads, and sales on the platform.
We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?
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For the accessible version of the podcast, go to our Ziotag gallery.We’re happy you’re here! Like the pod?Support the podcast and receive discounts from our sponsors: https://yourbrandamplified.codeadx.me/Leave a rating and review on your favorite platformFollow @yourbrandamplified on the socialsTalk to my digital avatar