

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

Jan 14, 2025 • 49min
The No Excuses Mindset: How Kyle Maynard Transformed Challenges into Triumphs
Kyle Maynard’s story is one of unparalleled resilience, overcoming the unimaginable through his "No Excuses" philosophy. Born a quadruple amputee, he faced numerous challenges growing up, but his family’s unwavering support and lessons in independence shaped his mindset and pushed him to defy all odds. Kyle became a champion wrestler and weightlifter, achieved world records, and later became a New York Times bestselling author. His success was built on mastering his mindset, learning techniques like Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) to control his thoughts and emotions, and focusing on what he could control despite external limitations.
Kyle’s journey took a major turn when his appearance on Larry King Live at 18 led to a book deal, and his book No Excuses was featured on Oprah. This marked the beginning of a successful career as a motivational speaker, where he has since inspired over 1,000 audiences worldwide, including executives, students, athletes, and warriors. Through his speaking engagements, Kyle shares his personal experiences and the empowering message that the true measure of success comes from persevering through adversity and embracing a "No Excuses" mentality. His message encourages people to take full responsibility for their lives, focus on the present, and push past obstacles, no matter how daunting they may seem.
If you're looking for an inspiring speaker who can motivate your audience to break through barriers and challenge their limits, Kyle Maynard would be an ideal fit. With his compelling life story and transformative mindset, he can inspire your group—whether they are leaders, athletes, or students—to embrace their potential and tackle their own challenges head-on. To bring Kyle’s "No Excuses" message to your next event, visit his website and discover how his powerful insights can leave a lasting impact on your audience.
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Jan 13, 2025 • 33min
From Egypt to Entrepreneurship: Deena Abdul's Journey to Empowering Youth Athletes
From Egypt to the United States, Deena Abdul exemplifies resilience, vision, and a strong commitment to empowering others. Immigrating to Chicago at the age of seven, Deena’s story is shaped by her family's sacrifices for a better life and her pursuit of independence and success. Through her career as a producer and entrepreneur, Deena has made a name for herself beyond her identity as an NBA wife, focusing on financial literacy and personal branding for athletes. Her work in entertainment, business, and mentorship reflects her belief in the power of education and long-term sustainability.
A significant aspect of Deena’s current endeavors is the Amunet Sports Collective, an initiative she launched to help young athletes develop their personal brands, marketing skills, and financial literacy. This collective aims to guide athletes toward long-term success by teaching them how to navigate the business side of sports. Deena is dedicated to ensuring that the next generation of athletes and creators are equipped with the tools necessary to build sustainable careers and achieve personal and financial independence.
Deena, as an ambassador for Bucket List Egypt, promotes cultural exchange and encourages others to explore the rich history of her homeland. In May 2025, she will host a trip to Egypt, providing a unique opportunity for people to connect with the culture and history of the country. Deena’s work is a testament to the power of proactive action and destiny, as she continues to inspire others to pursue their passions and create meaningful change.
Ready for an adventure? Join Deena Abdul on a journey to Egypt in May 2025. Explore ancient wonders, connect with history, and make unforgettable memories!
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Jan 10, 2025 • 15min
Harnessing Inner Strength with Zen: How to Thrive in Challenging Situations
Delve into the Zen perspective on dealing with adversity, particularly in the context of the recent Los Angeles fires that have caused significant loss and displacement. Zen philosophy teaches that while suffering and grief are natural responses to life’s difficulties, they should not dominate our lives. Instead, we should aim to cultivate inner peace and self-mastery, which allows us to navigate challenges with clarity and compassion. 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.
Anika shares her personal experiences with loss, including the death of a student and a friend's cancer diagnosis. Emphasizing in focusing on actionable responses rather than succumbing to negativity, a key Zen practice, Zen encourages us to stay present in the moment and let go of attachment to material things, as everything in life is temporary. This perspective on impermanence is especially relevant when dealing with the loss of possessions, homes, or loved ones, reminding us that memories and relationships are far more enduring than physical things.
Highlighting self-acceptance and ongoing personal growth, regardless of external circumstances, they suggest focusing on what we can control—our response to crises—and staying committed to our own development. By practicing mindfulness, embracing impermanence, and supporting others, we can maintain resilience and contribute to healing, both in our own lives and in the communities we serve. Through these Zen principles, we are empowered to face life’s challenges with greater peace and strength.
For those looking to go further in their personal development, the Zen Activation Program provides tools to break free from limiting beliefs and cultivate lasting inner peace. Join us in this transformative program, where you’ll learn to break free from limiting beliefs, deepen your self-awareness, and cultivate lasting peace.
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

Jan 9, 2025 • 17min
Shannah Quinn on Building Credit Early: From Kiddie Credit to Real Estate Investment
We’re bringing back one of our favorite episodes packed with an inspiring journey of Shanna Quinn full of invaluable insights on financial literacy for kids and home buying. Shannah discusses the Kiddie Credit app, which helps children learn money management and credit concepts through chores and rewards. This app serves as an early introduction to financial responsibility, teaching kids budgeting, saving, and the basics of credit. She also explores how kids' debit card platforms are expanding this education by allowing children to earn, save, and invest money.
Shannah also delves into the importance of maintaining good credit, especially when it comes to the home buying process. As an expert in the title industry, she highlights key factors lenders look for when approving mortgages, such as credit scores, debt-to-income ratios, and payment history. She advises individuals to build credit early, avoid excessive debt, and make informed decisions when applying for loans or purchasing a home.
This is a replay of our Giving Kredit Podcast, and we’re thrilled to share it again with you!
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Jan 8, 2025 • 41min
Cultivating Wellness and Abundance with Coach Ayanna O.
Join us and be inspired in this replay episode from Women Acquiring Assets, featuring Coach Ayana O, a highly transformative business and life coach, combining yoga, meditation, visualization and traditional results-proven coaching methods to help individuals clear mental fog and become focused, overcome feeling overwhelmed, move past procrastination to productivity, and take decisive action to enjoy more peace, satisfaction and happiness in life.
Ayanna's journey from Jamaica to becoming a successful global coach is truly inspiring. She overcame challenges, including a failed business venture, to develop a unique coaching philosophy that integrates mindset development with traditional business strategies. Ayanna emphasizes the importance of personal growth through mindfulness, yoga, and meditation, recognizing that a strong foundation is crucial for achieving sustainable business success.
Her coaching programs cater to diverse needs, offering both group and one-on-one sessions. She emphasizes accountability and encourages clients to utilize journaling for self-reflection and goal setting. Ayanna's vision extends beyond individual coaching, with plans for transformative wellness retreats in Jamaica.
Coach Ayanna's story encourages listeners to embrace an abundance mindset and actively pursue their dreams. To learn more about Ayanna's coaching programs and upcoming retreats, connect with her on social media and visit her website.
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Jan 7, 2025 • 40min
The Drop In CEO’s Compass: Deborah Coviello on High Achievers vs. High Performers
Deborah Coviello, the founder of Illumination Partners and the 'Drop in CEO,' brings over 30 years of experience in manufacturing, quality assurance, and leadership. Her vast expertise has shaped her into a trusted advisor, helping businesses thrive with human-centered leadership. Through her consulting work, Deborah helps CEOs and leaders navigate challenges with clarity and purpose. Her first book, The CEO's Compass, provides actionable strategies for decision-making, while her upcoming audiobook, set for release in late 2024, will make her insights even more accessible.
Deborah's new project, The New CEO Playbook, takes a fresh approach to leadership by focusing on achieving peace of mind instead of simply chasing results. She emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, employee development, and integrating technology thoughtfully into company culture. With a strong belief in the power of personal growth, Deborah encourages leaders to step back, reassess, and build organizations that thrive with purpose and balance.
If you're ready to bring clarity and effectiveness to your leadership journey, contact Deborah for a complimentary meeting! You can reach her via LinkedIn or visit her website to set up a conversation. Don't miss out on her wisdom—whether it's through her current book or upcoming audiobook, Deborah's insights will help you lead with confidence and peace of mind.
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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 3, 2025 • 24min
Vision to Reality: How to Set Goals That Stick in 2025
Dive deep into the art of goal-setting, emphasizing the crucial connection between vision, emotion, and action. 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 sharing their personal experiences and strategies for achieving ambitious goals. Anika outlines her 2025 aspirations, while Allan discusses his commitment to overcoming Parkinson's and expanding the impact of his work.
To enhance accountability, Allan introduces the "consequence system," a unique approach that involves attaching undesirable consequences to unmet goals. This unconventional method encourages consistent effort and prioritization. They also explored practical strategies for managing time and staying organized, including the A-B-C prioritization system and the importance of understanding individual work styles.
For those looking to go further in their personal development, the Zen Activation Program provides tools to break free from limiting beliefs and cultivate lasting inner peace. Join us in this transformative program, where you’ll learn to break free from limiting beliefs, deepen your self-awareness, and cultivate lasting peace.
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 2, 2025 • 16min
Supporting Moms, Building Credit: The Vision Behind Social Mama with Amanda Ducach
We’re bringing back one of our favorite episodes packed with an inspiring journey of how Amanda Ducach, founder of the Social Mama app, created a platform that supports mothers by connecting them with friends, experts, and events. With an idea born from Amanda’s personal experience helping a friend cope with postpartum depression, this led her to develop an app that aims to provide both emotional support and practical advice for mothers navigating the challenges of parenthood. This is a replay of our Giving Kredit Podcast, and we’re thrilled to share it again with you!
Amanda also emphasizes the importance of financial literacy in her interview, sharing how her mother taught her about credit from a young age. She believes that understanding credit is essential for financial freedom, especially for middle-class families. Amanda applies these lessons to her own life, teaching her 4-year-old son about budgeting and delayed gratification. She also advocates for responsible investing and smart financial management, highlighting that financial education can break generational cycles of insecurity and lead to long-term success.
To support the mission of Social Mama and empower mothers everywhere, download the app today from the App Store or Google Play. Join the community and help spread the word about this innovative tool designed to make motherhood a little easier and a lot more connected.
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Jan 1, 2025 • 43min
The Adinek Group: Kenida Lewis on Building Inclusive Workplaces
Join us and be inspired in this replay episode from Women Acquiring Assets, featuring Diversity recruiting expert Kenida Lewis, founder and Principal of The Adinek Group, as she shared valuable insights on navigating today's challenging world. Explore how she copes with current events like the pandemic and social justice movements, and how she helps children understand these complex issues.
Kenida also shed light on the importance of shifting the conversation around diversity within organizations and emphasized the power of data in driving real change. We discussed how to pinpoint areas where diversity is lacking and how to implement strategies to attract and hire diverse talent. From partnering with organizations like the National Black MBA to implementing diverse slate requirements, Kenida provided practical steps for organizations to take.
Want to learn more about how to create a truly inclusive workplace? Connect with Kenida Lewis at The Adinek Group. She's passionate about helping organizations build a more diverse and equitable future.
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Dec 31, 2024 • 38min
Navigating the Evolving Event Industry: Roger Igo on Trends, Technology, and the Importance of Adaptability
Roger Igo, the president and CEO of Bell Tower on 34th, has carved a remarkable path in the event management industry, showcasing a blend of resilience, innovative leadership, and unwavering commitment to excellence. Since taking the helm in 2009, Igo has transformed Bell Tower into a premier destination for events in Houston, successfully hosting over $100 million worth of gatherings while amassing more than 1,200 five-star reviews. His eclectic career, encompassing more than 34 different jobs prior to his role as CEO, has equipped him with the diverse insights necessary to navigate the complexities of the event industry.
Under Igo's leadership, Bell Tower has thrived despite various challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and increasing competition in the Houston market. His dedication to fostering a supportive workplace culture and implementing innovative operational strategies has allowed the venue to adapt and grow. Igo’s focus on servant leadership emphasizes collaboration and mentorship, creating an environment where employees can thrive both personally and professionally. His forthcoming book on event planning promises to distill his extensive knowledge and experiences into valuable insights for aspiring venue managers and event planners.
As Bell Tower on 34th continues to flourish, it stands as a testament to Igo's vision and dedication to excellence. Whether planning a wedding, corporate gathering, or special event, Igo invites you to explore the unique offerings of Bell Tower. Visit their website to discover how this exceptional venue can help bring your event to life and create unforgettable experiences.
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