Your Brand Amplified

When lifelong friends and financial gurus Kristen Kelly and Jen Saarbach join forces, the result is nothing short of captivating. Our latest conversation with these powerhouses takes you through their serendipitous shift from divergent career paths to becoming leading voices in finance with their Wall Street Skinny podcast. We uncover the mosaic of their friendship, the decisive moments that influenced their professional lives, and their shared ambition to demystify the finance world for everyone tuning in. Navigating the high-stakes world of finance is no small feat, especially for women who juggle the demands of career and family. Kristen and Jen's stories are testament to the resilience and dynamism needed to thrive. They offer an unfiltered look into the mentorship culture that's shaping the future of women in finance, the importance of finding joy in your work, and the stark differences between the sell side and buy side of the industry. Their insights are a beacon for anyone aspiring to carve out a space in the complex world of finance. Ever wondered what it's like to be an entrepreneur while managing family life and still kicking goals in the finance sector? Kristen and Jen share the triumphs and trials of running a multifaceted business, from the hustle of remote work to the creative process of engaging an audience through podcasting. They also peer into the crystal ball of AI's influence on the finance industry, revealing how technology can both challenge and enhance our professional landscapes. If you're drawn to stories of innovation, growth, and the pursuit of a brand that captures hearts and minds, then this episode is your front-row ticket. 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 

Embark on an enlightening adventure with digital marketing virtuoso Holly Medwid as she recounts her captivating career trajectory from spirited blogger to founder of her acclaimed agency. As Holly unravels the intricate tapestry of her experiences, listeners gain a treasure trove of wisdom on mastering the digital marketing sphere and the pivotal role of adaptability. Grasp invaluable insights into the transformative power of social media marketing and the art of balancing the promotion of a family business with the expansion of an agency. Delve into the hidden depths of digital marketing roles, where Holly illuminates the unexpected complexities and common misconceptions that shroud SEO and copywriting. Discover her secret sauce for optimizing images that turbocharge SEO efforts and the profound influence of user-generated content on advertising triumphs. Holly's journey from employee to entrepreneur provides an inspirational roadmap, encouraging listeners to embrace their entrepreneurial spirit and underscoring the significance of a focused business vision in the digital realm. As we peer into the crystal ball of digital marketing's future, Holly paints a vivid picture of emerging technologies like AI and the spatial internet that promise to revolutionize our online experiences. You'll leave this episode equipped with strategies for organic social media growth, understanding how to eschew vanity metrics in favor of genuine engagement. Stay tuned for a revelatory discussion on nurturing a future-ready team, as Holly shares her philosophy on mentorship and the transformative power of continuous learning. Join us for an episode that doesn't just scratch the surface but plunges into the heart of digital marketing's evolving landscape.  https://www.monarchsocialmedia.com/ We're happy you're here! Like the pod? Visit our website! Check out our sponsor PitchDB! 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 

Join us for a riveting conversation with Eric McHugh, a digital media maven and Web3 aficionado, as he maps out his remarkable journey from intrepid intern to a pivotal player at Snap during its IPO. A blend of personal anecdotes and professional insights, Eric's story is rich with moments that underscore the value of weaving your true self into your work. From the strategic depths of chess to the disciplined art of Muay Thai, and transformative meditation retreats, Eric's pursuit of authenticity isn't just inspiring, it's a blueprint for molding a career that's as fulfilling as it is successful. Amplify your understanding of the e-commerce revolution with our deep dive into ShopX, the platform that's catalyzing a seismic shift in how we buy and sell in the digital world. Eric demystifies how cryptocurrencies, NFTs, and blockchain are not just buzzwords but the building blocks of a transparent financial ecosystem where everyone has a stake. Pioneering concepts like ReserveX and SquadX emerge as more than innovative tools; they're the harbingers of a new era where loyalty and community engagement redefine the commerce landscape. Our episode reaches its crescendo by exploring the harmonious relationship between technology and creativity. Artificial Intelligence isn't just about robots and algorithms; it's a canvas for entrepreneurs to paint their visions onto reality. Eric shares a vivid narrative of how AI is fostering opportunity and igniting the creative spark across continents, particularly for women in South America. As we journey through the philosophical ties between our inner thoughts and outer world, we're reminded that the keys to transformation lie within our grasp. Embrace this episode of Amplify with Anika for a thought-provoking session that connects the dots between mind, marketplace, and the vibrant future of the internet. 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 

Ever wondered if the Wi-Fi on a Grecian isle beats that of a bustling city cafe? Kayla Ihrig, graphic designer turned globe-trotting freelancer and author of "How to be a Digital Nomad," sat down with us to strip away the Instagram gloss and get real about the digital nomad existence. From her first leaps of faith leaving Chicago to the nitty-gritty of managing a mobile career, Kayla's tales from Airbnb kitchens and beyond reveal the discipline required to keep clients close while you're timezone hopping. The episode is a timeline through the remote work revolution, capturing personal accounts from the days of acoustic couplers to our pandemic-induced digital transformation. It's a narrative that paints the picture of our cultural shift, highlighting not just the technical advancements but the human stories of those who embrace a life liberated from cubicles. Listeners will get a front-row seat to how Kayla and others have made countries like the Netherlands their springboards to global citizenship and the candid realities of coupling nomadic ambitions with personal relationships. But how does one sustain this lifestyle without the cushion of a stable corporate paycheck? Our exchange dives into financial foresight with Kayla, exploring how derailing the 9-to-5 train doesn't have to derail your bank account. We dissect the four digital nomad archetypes and discuss how each navigates the balance of work and adventure. Whether you're in an RV across America or a sailboat in the Mediterranean, this episode is packed with invaluable insights for anyone looking to trade their lease for a life of endless explorations. We're happy you're here! Like the pod? Visit our website! Check out our sponsor PitchDB! 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 

Embarking on a career is like setting sail on vast oceans – sometimes the currents take you in unexpected directions. Jerry Fu knows this all too well, transitioning from the structured world of pharmacy to the dynamic realm of conflict resolution coaching. His personal voyage illuminates the familial and cultural influences that often chart our initial courses, alongside the wake-up calls that compel us to steer towards our true passions. Jerry's candid conversation peels back the layers of not just meeting but surpassing the expectations set by an Asian American upbringing, showcasing the bravery required to pursue a path less traveled. Striking a balance between the demands of a full-time career and the pull of side hustles can feel like walking a tightrope, but Jerry Fu has learned to do it with grace. He shares the strategies and philosophies behind managing time, setting healthy boundaries, and the revolutionary concept of resting without guilt. For leaders navigating the complexities of identity within the Asian-American community, Jerry's insights ring particularly true. He speaks to the heart of creating a legacy that honors both cultural roots and personal fulfillment, providing a compass for those seeking to pave their own way without losing sight of where they came from. The rhythm of salsa dancing isn't just a metaphor for Jerry's life—it's a literal expression of his journey through fear, discipline, and the pursuit of joy. He connects the dots between the discipline of dance and the discipline of leadership, offering a twirl through his evolution from hesitant freshman to Rice University's volunteer salsa instructor. As he teaches us the steps to confronting our fears and mastering the art of difficult conversations, Jerry helps us choreograph our own paths to growth. For listeners looking to navigate their relationships with poise or seeking the beat of their own drum, this episode promises a dance of insights that will leave you spinning with inspiration. We're happy you're here! Like the pod? Visit our website! Check out our sponsor PitchDB! 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 

Have you ever felt the magnetic pull towards a passion that won't let go, no matter where life takes you? Our guest, Diana Marie Waguespack from Houston, is living proof that following your heart can lead to wonderful places. From paintbrushes and dance recitals to the shutter click of her camera, Diana Marie's artistic journey has been as vibrant as her award-winning photographs. Join us as she opens up about the transformation from a dental hygiene dreamer to a beacon of creativity, touching on the importance of family, the courage to embrace change, and the joy of nurturing a special needs child. Diana Marie's story doesn't just stop at finding her path; she's also paving the way for others. Through her lens, we're invited to see the world differently, whether it's the depths of the ocean captured in her Underwater Photographic Fine Art or the intricate beauty of mixed media. She shares her secrets to creating unforgettable pieces that have caught the eyes of both the PPA Guild and art show juries nationwide. For anyone looking to turn their creative spark into a blazing fire, Diana Marie offers sage advice on making the leap into entrepreneurship. So, grab your notepad and let's uncover the colors of success together. Check out Diana Marie’s Fine Art if you want to learn more. We're happy you're here! Like the pod? Visit our website! Check out our sponsor PitchDB! 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 

When the ground beneath Heidi Johnson's world shook with a family tragedy, it became the catalyst for an inspiring transformation. Her story, which unfolds in our latest episode, is a powerful reminder that our deepest sorrows can forge paths to profound service. Join us as Heidi takes us through her evolution from a corporate powerhouse to founding the Spiritual Care Guild at Children's Hospital Los Angeles, illustrating the incredible impact of faith and empathy in her life and the lives of those her initiative touches. The journey of Charity Matters is also at the heart of our conversation. Discover how a simple blog evolved into a beacon for sharing the tales of those who turn love into action. We unpack the essence of true charity, challenging common misconceptions about philanthropy, and celebrate the endurance of those dedicated to making a difference. The stories we share are a testament to the human spirit's capacity to overcome, to connect, and to uplift through service and love. Amidst these narratives, we also explore the symbiotic relationship between business and philanthropy with authentic cause marketing. We shed light on the significance of aligning a company's philanthropic efforts with its core operations, using CarParts.com's collaboration with the LA Car Project as an example. The episode culminates with the power of gratitude, youth leadership, and discovering one's unique gifts, as exemplified by the transformational journey of my own son. From hesitant participant to non-profit co-founder, his story embodies the message we hope to impart: the importance of using our gifts to ignite positive change. We're happy you're here! Like the pod? Visit our website! Check out our sponsor PitchDB! 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 

Have you ever faced a moment so challenging that it forced you to redefine your perspective on life? Meet Matt Drinkhahn, our guest this week, who transformed his spine-tingling ordeal into a catalyst for profound personal and professional growth. From his early days peddling Cutco Knives, which polished his resilience and sales acumen, to his current role as a business coach extraordinaire, Matt's story is a masterclass in harnessing adversity to fuel success. He'll take you through the peaks and valleys of his journey, including a spine injury that threatened to upend everything and the pivotal moment before surgery that defined his path to recovery. There's something undeniably compelling about someone who chooses to prioritize family over the incessant demands of a career. Matt's reflections on rebalancing life's equation, with insights from his involvement with Front Row Dads, offer a roadmap to anyone seeking harmony between personal fulfillment and professional ambition. His narrative is a potent reminder that work-life balance is not just a trendy catchphrase but a vital component of true contentment. As he unveils his book "The Eternal Optimist: It's Never Too Late," Matt's optimism is infectious, encouraging us to reevaluate our own priorities and align our actions with our deepest values. Finally, Matt's approach to overcoming perfectionism and the internal monologues that often hold us back from our true potential is both enlightening and actionable. He doesn't just talk the talk; he provides tangible steps to help shift our inner dialogue and embrace a more genuine version of success. Whether you're curious about effective leadership, personal development, or simply looking for inspiration to make that next bold move, Matt's wisdom and the launch of his podcast serve as a powerful reminder that optimism and action are key ingredients in the recipe for a life well-lived. Join us for an episode that's more than just a conversation—it's a call to action, guided by the eternal optimist himself. Website: www.eternaloptimistpodcast.com We're happy you're here! Like the pod? Visit our website! Check out our sponsor PitchDB! 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 

Imagine embarking on a voyage through the transformative landscape of artificial intelligence with a pioneer who has emerged from a small Indian town to become a beacon of innovation. Manuj Aggarwal joins me, Anika Jackson, to unravel his path to becoming an AI virtuoso, holding the torch to illuminate the future of technology. We navigate through his humble beginnings, his inspiring ascent, and the indelible mark he's making on healthcare, education, and the expanding AI frontier. Throughout our conversation, we tackle the pressing issues of job displacement and inherent biases within AI, ensuring a nuanced discussion that celebrates technology's promise while confronting its challenges. Our interaction with Manuj isn't just about the nuts and bolts of AI; it's a symphony of human experiences harmonizing with technological breakthroughs. We reflect on the countless ways AI has woven itself into the fabric of daily life, from optimizing logistics to enriching personal gadget experiences. Manuj's contributions to the field, with patents and educational influence, highlight AI's potential to not just simplify tasks but to also dissolve societal dividers. His personal tale of love and defiance against conventional norms in India mirrors the democratizing power of AI, suggesting a future where our pursuits are driven by passion, enabled by the efficiencies of this technology. In the riveting final act, we cast our gaze upon the vast horizons AI promises to enhance, from healthcare innovations like custom orthotic devices to educational breakthroughs that offer personalized learning experiences. Manoj and I explore the gravity of AI's impact on society, considering both its formidable economic contributions and its capacity to reframe our approach to global challenges. Before we part, we extend an invitation to join us in demystifying AI with a complimentary video series and book from AImerge.pro, aiming to equip you with the knowledge to navigate and thrive in an AI-augmented world. Join me again for more enriching dialogues with extraordinary minds that dare to redefine the boundaries of possibility. We're happy you're here! Like the pod? Visit our website! Check out our sponsor PitchDB! 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 

Ever wondered how a brush with destiny could steer you toward a life of impactful entrepreneurship? Ann Bennett, the branding maestro who stands apart with her fusion of fine art and marketing genius, takes us on her extraordinary voyage from Vogue's elite corridors to the forefront of renegade branding. She divulges not just how personal upheavals, like her 9-11 experience, spurred her pivot towards purposeful business creation, but also how integrating one's personality into branding can slice through the cacophony of AI-generated content. In a world brimming with distractions, finding the harmony between personal empowerment and the entrepreneurial hustle can be like searching for a needle in a haystack. I share my own tales of embracing missteps as foundations for confidence and the art of keeping an unwavering focus on your business lane. Reflecting on themes from my book "Laughing Your Way to Loving Yourself," we dissect the role humor and self-compassion play in business, alongside the credo that "good is good enough." We also discuss creating oases of simplicity and innovation amidst the digital era's tornado. By the end of our chat, the magnetic allure of authentic branding becomes undeniable, as Ann sheds light on the influence of DNA and archetypal resonance in fashioning a message that truly connects. She gifts us her insights on cultivating that 'head whipping hook' to make a brand irresistibly noticeable in a crowded digital landscape. If you're itching to refine your brand identity and magnify your business success, Ann invites you to explore your brand archetype through her website. Discover Your Brand Archetype. Are you a Nurturer, Disruptor, Innovator or Geek? Take the Quiz to uncover your secret brand advantage and make bank! https://annbennettmarketing.com/archetypequiz We're happy you're here! Like the pod? Visit our website! Check out our sponsor PitchDB! 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