Right About Now - Legendary Business Advice

Most people rush into building a personal brand — and end up stuck with views, likes, and no real business to show for it.In this episode, Marian Esanu breaks down why personal branding should come after you’ve built something real, not before. From fake authority and imposter syndrome to why most creators can’t convert attention into sales, this conversation challenges the way entrepreneurs think about visibility, credibility, and long-term value.If you’ve ever felt pressure to “build your brand” before you’re ready — this episode will change how you approach it.Key Topics Covered• Why starting a personal brand too early can hurt your credibility•The difference between being an expert vs an enthusiast•Why views and followers don’t matter if you can’t convert them into revenue•How real businesses create authentic, scalable personal brands•The danger of building a brand that can’t be sold or exited•How to research competitors instead of reinventing the wheel•Why paid traffic + organic content beats chasing virality•Turning content into an actual business assetWho This Episode Is ForEntrepreneurs building (or thinking about building) a personal brandCreators struggling to monetize their audienceBusiness owners tired of “fake guru” branding adviceAnyone who wants authority without pretending to be an expertSubscribe to Right About Now!Keep listening and subscribe to our newsletter at RyanIsRight.comFollow @ ryanalford on all social mediaKeep up with Marian Esanu• Personal Branding Ninja• Momentum Podcast

Most businesses are obsessed with one question:“How do I spend $1 to make $5?” According to Jon Davids, that mindset is exactly what’s holding brands back. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford sits down with the CEO of Influicity and author of Marketing Superpowers to unpack why the future belongs to brands that build movements, not just marketing funnels. John shares how he learned to capture attention before social media existed, why most influencers are broke despite large followings, and how brands can create demand that doesn’t rely on algorithms or ad platforms. In This Episode, We Cover Why paid ads alone are unsustainable long-term The difference between building an audience and building a movement How community connects content to commerce Why “Minimum Viable Concept” beats “Minimum Viable Product” How to own customer demand instead of renting it What brands must do today to stay relevant in the next 10–20 years If you want to stop chasing customers and start attracting them, this conversation will completely change how you think about marketing. 🎧 Listen now and discover your true marketing superpower.  

Why do most podcasts stall long before they reach real scale? In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford is joined by Tom Webster, one of the most respected voices in podcasting and author of The Audience Is Listening, to unpack the uncomfortable truths behind podcast growth. With nearly 30 years in audio research and media strategy, Tom explains why: Promotion won’t save a show that lacks clarity Editing for flow is the secret weapon of top podcasts Many creators build for themselves — not their audience Asking the wrong listener questions leads to bad decisions Podcasting is far from “on the way down” — and why the data proves it This conversation is a masterclass in podcast strategy, audience psychology, and long-term content thinking. Whether you’re launching a show, stuck at a download ceiling, or building branded content, this episode will help you stop chasing vanity metrics and start building real listener loyalty. 📘 Learn more about Tom’s book: The Audience Is Listening🎙 Explore industry research at Sounds Profitable📲 Subscribe for weekly insights on business, media, and growth  

Luxury isn’t accidental—it’s engineered. On this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford is joined by Dr. Deepak Dugar, one of the world’s most respected surgeons and the architect behind one of Beverly Hills’ most exclusive medical brands. Dr. Dugar shares how he built a global reputation by going all-in on a single niche, refusing to compete with mediocrity, and designing a business that prioritizes quality over volume—in clients, hiring, and brand positioning. This conversation goes far beyond medicine. It’s a blueprint for entrepreneurs who want to: Stand out in hyper-competitive markets Build premium brands with demand built in Create exclusivity without paid advertising Hire elite performers and avoid energy vampires You’ll Learn: Why “riches in the niches” is more than a cliché How luxury brands intentionally repel the wrong customers The difference between good revenue and bad revenue Why elite operators pick their competition carefully How to build a brand that attracts the world’s best clients Connect with Dr. Deepak Dugar Instagram: Deepakdugarmd Website: www.Scarlessnose.com 🎧 If you want to build something elite—not average—this episode is a must listen.

Taxes are the single biggest expense most Americans will ever face—and yet almost no one is taught how they really work. In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford is joined by Mark J. Kohler, renowned Main Street tax attorney, to break down how the tax code is designed to reward certain behaviors—and how everyday entrepreneurs can legally take advantage of it. This conversation covers: Why side hustles unlock powerful tax advantages How small business owners can dramatically reduce their effective tax rate The difference between delegating taxes and leading your tax strategy Why depreciation, real estate, and alternative investments matter How wealthy individuals think differently about money and taxes Why the tax code incentivizes entrepreneurship, housing, and investment Mark explains that the tax system isn’t broken—it’s behavior-based. Those who understand the rules use them to build wealth, while everyone else overpays out of fear or ignorance. If you’re a business owner, investor, or building a side hustle, this episode will change how you think about money—and what you keep. Guest:Mark J. Kohler – Tax Attorney & EntrepreneurWebsite: markjkohler.com  

Shownotes: The New Media Playbook is HERE! The sports media landscape is changing — and Josh Pate is one of the clearest examples of how new media is winning. In this episode of Right About Now, Josh Pate joins Ryan Alford to break down how he built a dominant college football media brand without relying on legacy networks, hot takes, or manufactured controversy. Josh shares why audience trust matters more than reach, how YouTube and live platforms reshaped sports media, and why creators who own their distribution and intellectual property are positioned to win long term. This conversation explores the intersection of sports, media, and business, offering valuable insight for creators, entrepreneurs, and anyone building a brand in today’s attention economy. In This Episode: Why legacy sports media models are losing relevance How Josh Pate built trust through consistency and honesty The power of niche audiences in sports media Owning your audience vs renting attention Monetizing content through direct relationships What the future of sports media looks like Connect with Josh Pate Josh Pate’s College Football Show on all major platforms X / Twitter: @JoshPateCFB Instagram: Joshpatecfb

What separates people who talk about success from those who actually build it? In this episode of Right About Now, entrepreneur, investor, and Shark Tank personality Matt Higgins explains why burning the boats — eliminating backup plans — is the fastest way to unlock clarity, courage, and exponential growth. Matt shares deeply personal stories about growing up in poverty, overcoming imposter syndrome, and why optimism, fearlessness, and relentless execution define elite performers. This conversation is a masterclass in commitment, belief before proof, and playing the long game when the evidence hasn’t arrived yet. If you’re feeling stuck, hesitant, or waiting for permission — this episode will reset how you think about risk and opportunity.  Key Points Introduction & mindset shift The danger of having a Plan B Compounding ambition over time Imposter syndrome & self-belief Optimism as a competitive advantage Playing bold before evidence exists Final advice for builders & leaders Connect with Matt Higgins: Follow Matt Higgins for leadership, investing, and mindset insights Learn more about his work at RSE Ventures Watch Matt on Shark Tank and other business programs

In this episode of Right About Now, Ryan Alford sits down with Jay Paterno—former Penn State coach, author, and leadership expert—for a candid conversation about the real impact of NIL on college football. From the rise of pay-to-play collectives to leadership failures, mental health pressures, and the erosion of fan loyalty, Jay breaks down what’s actually happening behind the scenes of today’s game. This isn’t a hot take—it’s a firsthand look at how college football is changing, and why many fans feel the sport they love is slipping away. Topics Covered: Why NIL quickly turned into pay-to-play The lack of leadership from the NCAA How money is changing locker room dynamics Mental health pressure on 18-year-old athletes Why fans are losing emotional connection What Joe Paterno would’ve done differently The future of contracts, transparency, and collective bargaining Why winning—not branding—is the real currency Key Takeaway:College football doesn’t have a talent problem—it has a leadership problem. Guest Bio:Jay Paterno is a former Penn State assistant football coach, leadership strategist, author, and nationally recognized voice on the evolution of college athletics. Jay brings a rare inside perspective on leadership, culture-building, and the business of college sports. Beyond coaching, Jay has served as a Penn State University Trustee, giving him firsthand insight into the intersection of athletics, academics, and institutional leadership. He is also a television analyst and host of Nittany Game Week, airing across more than 400 stations in five states. Today, Jay consults with athletic departments, organizations, and leaders navigating NIL, culture, leadership, and change, while continuing to write and speak on the realities facing modern college football. Stay up to date with Jay’s work, insights, and appearances: 🌐 Website: jvpaterno.com 🐦 X / Twitter: @jpaterno 📸 Instagram: @jvpaterno Interested in his book? Buy directly from his website or Amazon  

Right About Now with Ryan Alford Join media personality and marketing expert Ryan Alford as he dives into dynamic conversations with top entrepreneurs, marketers, and influencers. "Right About Now" brings you actionable insights on business, marketing, and personal branding, helping you stay ahead in today's fast-paced digital world. Whether it's exploring how character and charisma can make millions or unveiling the strategies behind viral success, Ryan delivers a fresh perspective with every episode. Perfect for anyone looking to elevate their business game and unlock their full potential.     Resources: Right About Now Newsletter | Free Podcast Monetization Course | Join The Network |Follow Us On Instagram | Subscribe To Our Youtube Channel | Vibe Science Media   SUMMARY In this episode of "Right About Now," host Ryan Alford interviews Jay Schwedelson, founder of Guru Media Hub and email marketing expert. Jay discusses why email marketing remains a top-performing channel, sharing insights from testing over 15 million subject lines. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on a clear niche, using human language, and adapting to new AI-driven inbox filters. Jay also explains how authenticity and strategic subject lines can boost open rates, and cautions against over-reliance on AI-generated content. The episode offers actionable tips for marketers looking to improve their email campaigns. TAKEAWAYS The enduring effectiveness of email marketing as a conversion channel. The importance of defining a clear brand identity or niche. The impact of focusing on a specific area of expertise in marketing. Strategies for improving email subject lines to increase open rates. The role of human touch and authenticity in email content amidst AI-generated content. The influence of AI on content creation and its implications for SEO. Current trends in email marketing, particularly regarding Apple’s Mail app sorting. The significance of using engaging language and formatting in email marketing. The value of data-driven insights from testing email subject lines. The necessity of adapting to evolving marketing technologies and consumer behaviors.  

Right About Now with Ryan Alford Join media personality and marketing expert Ryan Alford as he dives into dynamic conversations with top entrepreneurs, marketers, and influencers. "Right About Now" brings you actionable insights on business, marketing, and personal branding, helping you stay ahead in today's fast-paced digital world. Whether it's exploring how character and charisma can make millions or unveiling the strategies behind viral success, Ryan delivers a fresh perspective with every episode. Perfect for anyone looking to elevate their business game and unlock their full potential.     Resources: Right About Now Newsletter | Free Podcast Monetization Course | Join The Network |Follow Us On Instagram | Subscribe To Our Youtube Channel | Vibe Science Media   SUMMARY In this episode of "Right About Now," host Ryan Alford interviews brain coach Jim Kwik, author of "Limitless." Jim shares practical strategies for boosting cognitive performance, learning more effectively, and cultivating a powerful mindset. He introduces the concept of "brain animals"—unique brain types that shape how we learn, communicate, and succeed. Listeners learn actionable tips to improve focus, motivation, and memory, as well as the importance of positive self-talk. The conversation offers valuable tools for personal growth, business, and relationships, empowering listeners to unlock their brain’s full potential. TAKEAWAYS The importance of self-talk and its impact on cognitive performance. Understanding and optimizing mindset for personal and professional success. The concept of "meta-learning" and the need to learn how to learn. Introduction of the "brain animal" concept to identify dominant brain traits. Description of the four brain animals: Cheetahs, Owls, Dolphins, and Elephants, each with unique traits and learning styles. Strategies for applying brain animal insights in personal and professional contexts. The significance of focus as a superpower in a distracted world. The relationship between knowledge, action, and personal empowerment. Jim Kwik's mission to help others overcome cognitive challenges and self-doubt. Resources for further learning, including brain nutrition and the "Limitless" book.