

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

Dec 13, 2024 • 21min
Own Your Power and Navigate Life with Inner Peace
The journey to personal growth begins with cultivating an inner safe space—an emotional sanctuary where self-acceptance and self-love can thrive. 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. By embracing our authentic selves, we attract like-minded individuals and create deeper, more meaningful connections. Allan and Anika emphasize the importance of self-awareness in showing up fully in our relationships, bringing our true energy into every interaction, whether with family, friends, or partners. Authenticity and presence become the foundation of all strong, nurturing connections.
At the heart of this growth is the rejection of mediocrity. Settling for less than we deserve limits our potential and keeps us from fully experiencing life’s richness. We must challenge ourselves to step outside our comfort zones, to take bold actions toward our dreams, and to live with intention. This commitment to a life of purpose is not just about avoiding regrets but about embracing every opportunity to evolve, grow, and live more fully. By working on ourselves and confronting complacency, we create the space to truly thrive.
If you’re ready to take the next step in your journey toward authenticity and fulfillment, the Zen Activation Program offers the tools and support you need to activate your potential. Join us in this transformative program, where you’ll learn to break free from limiting beliefs, deepen your self-awareness, and cultivate lasting peace. Begin your path to meaningful change today and create the life you truly desire.
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Dec 12, 2024 • 42min
Disruptive Lead Generation with Robert Newberry
Robert Newberry’s journey from social work and ministry to becoming the COO of Lead Wave is a testament to the power of following your passion and being open to new opportunities. Despite having no background in AI, Robert embraced the steep learning curve of the tech world with enthusiasm, bringing his people-centered mindset to the fast-paced world of lead generation. At Lead Wave, he’s able to leverage his experience in understanding human needs to help businesses, especially startups, connect with the right leads—those that align with their goals and vision. This unique blend of empathy and innovation sets Lead Wave apart in a crowded industry.
Lead Wave’s approach is its commitment to transparency and cost-effective solutions. With a focus on businesses in the 11-50 employee range, Lead Wave is a game-changer for startups that want to scale without breaking the bank. Robert’s leadership is all about fostering strong relationships and helping businesses grow by delivering high-quality leads that truly matter.
If you're looking to take your startup to the next level, now is the perfect time to get on board with Lead Wave. They’re offering an amazing 50% discount on the first month of a 3 or 6-month contract if you sign up before the end of 2024. This is your chance to work with a team that combines empathy, transparency, and cutting-edge AI technology to help your business grow. Don’t miss out on this limited-time offer—check out Lead Wave today and start building the future of your business!
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Dec 11, 2024 • 48min
From Broadway to Business: The Triple Threat with Michael Roderick
Michael Roderick’s journey from high school English teacher to Broadway producer is a testament to the power of adaptability and relationship-building in transforming your career. One of his most valuable insights is the "triple threat" concept, which he expands beyond theater into the business world. Understanding which role you naturally align with can help you better market yourself and create a personal brand that speaks to your strengths.
Roderick also highlights the importance of packaging your ideas for broader appeal. He shares the story of his client, Patty Block, who redefined her marketing strategy with a creative concept called the “broken cookie effect.” This approach helped her reframe her services in a way that was more accessible and engaging to her audience. Roderick’s message is clear: it’s not just about what you do, but how you present it to the world, and sometimes the smallest shift in perspective can open up new opportunities.
If you're ready to take a deeper look at your personal brand and make sure you're building the right connections, Roderick’s tool is a great place to start. Head over to MyReferabilityRater.com and take the assessment to discover how you can improve your accessibility, influence, and overall impact. Let Michael’s insights guide you on your journey to 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

Dec 10, 2024 • 42min
Beats to Books: Bobby Borg's Path from Performer to Professor
From a young drummer inspired by his dad’s big band music to an international musician, Bobby Borg offers some really valuable lessons about reinvention and growth. He realized early on that success in music isn't just about talent—it's also about understanding the business side of things. This led him to write his first book on the music industry, despite not having any formal writing experience. His story shows that it's okay to step outside your comfort zone, take risks, and learn as you go.
One of the key insights Bobby shares is the importance of staying true to yourself while evolving. He explains how rebranding, whether it’s changing your name or your role, isn’t about becoming someone new—it’s about adapting and growing in a way that’s authentic to who you are. His decision to keep the name “Bobby” as he transitioned into teaching is a great example of how continuity in your personal brand can make all the difference, even as your career takes unexpected turns.
Bobby also emphasizes the power of mentorship and coaching. Moving from musician to educator, he shifted from being a professor to a coach to build stronger, more personal connections with his students. His approach is a great reminder that growth is a two-way street, and that helping others succeed can be one of the most rewarding parts of any career. If you're looking for more tips and inspiration from Bobby, check out his YouTube channel!
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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

Dec 6, 2024 • 23min
Zap Life's Challenges with Clarity, Calmness, and Effective Communication
In today’s busy world, many of us are searching for ways to find balance, peace, and clarity. That’s where the wisdom of Zen comes in. Allan Knight, a former Zen Monk, teaches us how to access a state of inner freedom—the Zen Zone—where we can manage our emotions, stay calm, and navigate life’s ups and downs with ease. Practices like meditation, mindfulness, and even activities like jogging can help us tap into this state, bringing a sense of calm and clarity that positively impacts all areas of life.
Self-mastery plays a big role in this process. It's not about being perfect, but about becoming more aware of how we respond to life’s challenges. When we develop skills like assertiveness, self-love, and emotional resilience, we’re able to handle criticism and tough situations without getting caught in negativity. Zen teaches us to communicate with authenticity and keep our emotions in check, which helps us build stronger, healthier relationships—whether at home or in the workplace.
If you’re looking for a way to truly transform your life and unlock your potential, the Zen Activation Program offers a simple, nine-step process to guide you on your journey. It’s all about finding that inner peace and clarity that will help you thrive in every area of life. Ready to get started? Visit the website and take the first step toward a more balanced and fulfilling life.
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

Dec 5, 2024 • 38min
The Future of Influencer Marketing with Pamela Zapata
Pamela Zapata has played a pivotal role in transforming the world of influencer marketing, shifting the focus from traditional talent to content creators who bring diverse perspectives to the table. With her background in broadcast journalism and experience working with major networks, Pamela understands the power of media and how it has evolved in the digital age. She emphasizes the importance of diversity, both in terms of representation and compensation, ensuring that influencers from all backgrounds are valued and given equitable opportunities.
Through her own influencer marketing agency, Pamela continues to drive change by promoting authentic content that genuinely resonates with audiences. She advocates for brands to engage with influencers who truly believe in their products and values, rather than just seeking out high follower counts or celebrity status. Additionally, Pamela works to bridge the knowledge gap for creators, helping them understand important metrics like engagement rates and CPM, which are essential for successful collaborations.
If you’re looking to elevate your brand through authentic influencer partnerships and diverse representation, Pamela is the expert you need. Visit her website to learn more about how she’s helping businesses and influencers create meaningful connections that drive results. Don’t miss the chance to work with an influencer marketing professional who truly understands the value of diversity and authenticity!
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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

Dec 4, 2024 • 43min
Purpose-Driven Business Growth with Christian Smutherman
Christian Smutherman’s approach to business growth is all about embracing authenticity and leveraging what makes you unique. Rather than following generic blueprints or trying to imitate others, he emphasizes the importance of developing a personal brand that resonates with your true strengths and values. When entrepreneurs tap into their unique qualities, they can build deeper, more meaningful connections with their audience, fostering trust and loyalty that leads to long-term success.
One of the core concepts Smutherman advocates is the Growth Loop, a business strategy framework that aligns your company’s core values and strengths with effective market strategies. He also highlights the transformative role of AI in streamlining operations, improving customer experiences, and driving growth. For Smutherman, success isn’t just about following a path but creating your own—and combining authenticity with smart, scalable strategies like the Growth Loop is the key to lasting success.
If you’re ready to scale your business and see real growth, Smutherman offers a practical resource to get you started: a free funnel blueprint designed to help you grow your leads by 10x. This tool will guide you through creating an effective sales funnel that attracts and nurtures the right customers. Don’t miss out and start growing your business with a strategy that works!
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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

Dec 3, 2024 • 42min
From Bankrupt to Building Wealth with Matt Theriault
Matt Theriault’s journey from the music industry to real estate is a powerful story of transformation and financial freedom. After facing the unpredictable nature of the music business, he made the bold decision to shift careers and pursue real estate as a way to build lasting wealth. Matt didn’t have all the answers when he started, but his willingness to take the first step and learn along the way led him to success. Through creative acquisition methods, like seller financing and lease options, he was able to build a profitable portfolio without needing large amounts of capital upfront.
A key part of Matt’s success has been his commitment to education and mentorship. He understood that real estate investing can be complex, but by seeking guidance from experienced investors and continually learning, he was able to navigate the challenges of the industry. Matt also emphasizes the importance of building a strong network of like-minded individuals, as a supportive community can offer insights, motivation, and valuable opportunities. This network, combined with strategic market selection—particularly in the Midwest and South—has been integral to Matt’s approach.
For anyone looking to break into real estate or take their investing to the next level, Matt’s story is a blueprint for success. He shows that you don’t need to have everything figured out from the start, just the willingness to take action and learn. To dive deeper into his journey and discover actionable steps for your own success, check out his book Escape. It’s the perfect resource for aspiring investors ready to start their own path toward financial freedom.
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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

Nov 29, 2024 • 60min
From Fired to Flourishing in Online Business with Jonathan Green
Dive into the inspiring journey of Jonathan Green, an entrepreneur who turned a career setback into a thriving online business. His journey from academia to entrepreneurship is a powerful story of taking risks and following one’s passion. Starting with SEO services, he quickly realized the power of scalability and began teaching others, helping them build successful businesses of their own. His story highlights the importance of adaptability and finding solutions that not only solve problems but create opportunities for growth.
Beyond SEO, Jonathan also made his mark in the world of writing and ghostwriting, where he honed the skill of understanding his audience and crafting content that resonates. His success in this field comes from his ability to create engaging, well-structured books that speak directly to readers. Later, Jonathan expanded his expertise into the realm of artificial intelligence, focusing on practical applications that help businesses grow while emphasizing the need for human oversight in AI integration. His approach to both AI and business is rooted in the belief that technology should enhance, not replace, human creativity and decision-making.
If you're ready to take your business to the next level, Jonathan’s insights and resources can help you leverage the power of AI for growth. Check out his revenue calculator tool to see how AI can drive efficiency and boost your profits based on your business size and activities. Take the first step toward transforming your business with AI and practical strategies that work.
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

Nov 27, 2024 • 46min
Scott Hebner on Causal AI: The Next Step in Solving Complex Business Problems
Scott Hebner, an experienced AI analyst and former IBM executive, brings a wealth of knowledge on the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence. After transitioning from a corporate role to advisory work, Hebner has focused on how AI is transforming industries, particularly small businesses. He highlights the shift from traditional predictive AI models to powerful generative AI tools that are democratizing access to cutting-edge technology. Small businesses, in particular, are benefiting from AI’s ability to streamline operations, improve decision-making, and increase productivity, leveling the playing field with larger enterprises.
As AI continues to evolve, the next big leap is goal-oriented AI agents—systems that autonomously pursue objectives and solve complex business problems. Hebner emphasizes how businesses must adapt quickly to this fast-paced development and invest in AI talent to stay competitive. The demand for skilled AI professionals is growing, but the supply is lagging, creating an urgent need for investments in education and training to build the workforce of the future. The intersection of AI and decision-making is also transforming industries, with causal AI emerging as a powerful tool for understanding cause and effect in business scenarios.
To stay up-to-date on the latest AI trends and developments, follow Scott Hebner and explore theCUBE Research newsletters for in-depth and expert insights on the cutting edge of AI and technology.
Whether you're a small business owner or a tech enthusiast, these resources are a great way to stay informed and ahead of the curve in the AI revolution.
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