Create Like the Greats

Join Ross Simmonds, founder of the content marketing agency Foundation, Anna Furmanov, a B2B strategy expert, and Emily Kramer, a seasoned marketing advisor, as they dive into the art of content repurposing. They discuss the importance of having a solid content foundation, highlighting micro-content and podcasting as key strategies. Discover Emily’s GACCS Brief method for effective planning and how AI can streamline your process. Their actionable insights will transform your approach to maximizing audience engagement and content lifespan!

Discover how publishing research can transform your marketing strategies and boost brand visibility. The discussion highlights the impact of AI across various industries and the surge in interest for related research. Learn from examples provided by major companies like Google DeepMind and NVIDIA, which successfully leverage research-driven content for backlinks and authority. The importance of distributing research to wider audiences and enhancing SEO strategies also takes center stage, making it essential for creators and marketers alike.

This discussion illuminates the concept of 'doing the thing' as a game-changer for success. It highlights the trap of content overload, urging creators to focus on impactful, goal-oriented content rather than incessant posting. Strategies are shared to escape the content treadmill, including setting clear objectives and utilizing a content calendar. The emphasis is on prioritizing real action over endless preparation, motivating listeners to channel their energy into meaningful endeavors.

Reflecting on 2024, the discussion dives into tech layoffs and whether predictions about Apple avoiding them came true. The excitement surrounding a frenzy of SaaS acquisitions and the unexpected dynamics in AI content creation are explored. Have we reached tear-jerking AI productions, or is it still a work in progress? The emergence of AI leadership roles in companies is highlighted as a pivotal trend. And in a light-hearted twist, the speaker checks if a marketing conference finally delivered great food!

Building a brand on Reddit requires a focus on genuine engagement rather than hard selling. By sharing valuable content, brands can enhance their recognition within specific communities. The platform serves as a strategic traffic driver, allowing businesses to guide potential customers naturally. Engaging in bottom-of-funnel discussions can also lead to valuable conversions. Analyzing successful posts helps refine content strategies and tap into audience preferences, making Reddit a powerful tool for lead generation and sales.

Vince Nero from BuzzStream, a savvy content strategist, joins Ross Simmonds to unveil smart distribution techniques. They emphasize the critical importance of making sure valuable content reaches its audience. Ross shares insights from his book on maximizing existing content, tackling the art of repurposing for sustained engagement. The duo discusses the evolution of marketing with AI's influence and stress authentic communication in building relationships. Packed with nostalgia, they reflect on how 90s culture shaped their perspectives on content.

Discover how to master time, energy, and focus in your journey to success. Learn the art of building meaningful relationships that thrive on support and collaboration. Explore the importance of continuous improvement and a growth mindset, inspired by Kobe Bryant's philosophy. Ross emphasizes the need for intentionality and adaptability at every life stage to enhance creativity and foster personal development. Get ready to refine your approach and create value through your work!

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross Simmonds dives into the transformative concept of the “Circle of Control vs. Circle of Concern.” In a world where being "too busy" often becomes a badge of honor, Ross challenges this mindset by exploring how the time we save from one distraction is often squandered on another. Drawing on Stephen Covey’s timeless framework from The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, Ross provides actionable advice to help listeners identify what truly matters, focus on what they can control, and let go of what they can’t. Whether you're an entrepreneur, executive, or creative professional, this episode offers practical strategies to help you reclaim your time and energy.Key Takeaways and Insights:1. The “Too Busy” MythMany people proudly declare they’re too busy for unproductive habits like watching TV, yet they often replace it with equally unproductive activities such as endless scrolling on social media. The issue isn’t the specific distraction but how we manage our time overall. Ross highlights that truly effective individuals don’t just eliminate distractions; they deliberately prioritize activities within their control to maximize productivity and fulfillment.2. Circle of Control vs. Circle of ConcernStephen Covey’s framework divides our attention into two categories: Circle of Concern: These include things we care about but cannot influence, like algorithm changes, celebrity gossip, or others’ successes. Circle of Control: These involve aspects within our power to change, such as our personal habits, producing meaningful work, or managing our mindset. Ross emphasizes that the more time and energy we devote to our Circle of Control, the more productive and fulfilled we become. This mindset shift not only reduces stress but also empowers us to achieve meaningful progress.3. Actionable Questions to Start Shifting Your FocusRoss encourages listeners to ask themselves two key questions to realign their priorities: How often do I focus on activities that genuinely move me forward, such as working on my goals or honing my skills? Are my daily actions aligned with the things I can actually influence?  Resources:The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected —╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool  ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool  ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds

The discussion dives into the challenge of differentiating distractions from genuine opportunities. It highlights the psychological tactics that make distractions alluring and offers strategies for focus. Actionable advice is shared on goal-setting and using tools like vision boards and the Eisenhower matrix. Personal reflections illustrate how what seems like a diversion can unexpectedly turn into a valuable opportunity. The emphasis is on intentionality and self-awareness in a world filled with constant noise.

In this episode of Create Like the Greats, Ross sits down with Tommy Walker to dive into his groundbreaking report, The State of Discontent, which reveals critical challenges and emerging trends in the content marketing industry. Through in-depth interviews and data analysis, Tommy highlights the gaps in audience research, the evolving role of meaning in storytelling, and the ethical use of AI in content creation. Together, they discuss how marketers can adapt their strategies, embrace innovation, and foster stronger team dynamics to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape. This conversation is packed with actionable insights for anyone looking to stay ahead in the content marketing world.Key Takeaways and Insights:1. The Importance of Audience Research in Content MarketingTommy Walker’s report reveals a startling statistic: 40.3% of content marketers fail to conduct sufficient audience research. This oversight undermines the effectiveness of content marketing strategies, as understanding the audience is crucial for crafting impactful messages. Many marketers make the mistake of relying too heavily on assumptions about their existing audience, leading to a disconnect between the content’s intention and its reception. The episode underscores that audience research is not just a step in the process—it’s the foundation of meaningful engagement.2. The Shift from Information to MeaningContent marketing is no longer just about disseminating information; it’s about creating content that resonates deeply with the audience. Tommy explains that audiences are increasingly seeking narratives that connect with their values and experiences. Simply presenting ideas without context or emotional relevance misses the mark. The discussion highlights how prioritizing meaning over information enables marketers to forge genuine connections that leave a lasting impact.3. Leveraging AI ResponsiblyAI’s role in content creation is transformative, but only when used responsibly. Tommy and Ross delve into the importance of frameworks that integrate AI without sacrificing quality. While AI can streamline processes and boost productivity, it cannot replace the creative and strategic thinking integral to impactful content. A skilled writer using AI as a tool can amplify their work, but poor foundational skills will still yield subpar results. The key takeaway is that AI should complement, not replace, human ingenuity.4. The Road Ahead: Long-Term Vision in Content MarketingThe episode emphasizes the need for a long-term vision in content marketing, which is often overshadowed by short-term goals. Tommy points out that neglecting thorough audience research not only hampers immediate efforts but also jeopardizes the ability to build sustainable relationships. By focusing on a strategic, forward-looking approach, marketers can attract the right audience and nurture connections that endure, ensuring their content remains relevant and impactful over time.Resources: The State of Discontent - https://www.thecontentstudio.com/the-state-of-discontent/ — 👋🏾 Let's stay connected —╰ Subscribe to my channel:  @RossSimmondsTV ╰ Instagram:  @thecoolestcool  ╰ Twitter / X: @thecoolestcool  ╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosssimmonds— Follow Tommy Walker —╰ Twitter / X: @tommyismyname╰ LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tommyismyname/