

The Rainmaker Podcast
Veronica Romney
Stepping into leadership isn’t for the faint of heart. It's a gladiatorial arena, an unceasing battle against time, expectations, and the pressures of creating impact. For Marketers at every level, the leap from being a leader to becoming a Rainmaker – a master of self, team, role, and impact – often feels like an impossible task. That’s where the Rainmaker Podcast comes in. 'Elevating Marketing Leaders' is not just a tagline – it's a mission. Each episode is filled with genuine, unscripted conversations with trailblazers from every corner of the business world. These aren’t just marketers from big brands with huge budgets. These are the Marketing Leaders who have transcended the norm, overcoming obstacles and achieving the extraordinary. And inside, they’re sharing the hard-earned victories and the lessons from their struggles, giving you an insider's perspective on what it truly takes to become a Rainmaker. We expose the conversations usually brushed under the rug and unmask game-changing strategies that are rarely discussed, like handling burnout, justifying the need for support, articulating ROI, managing 'drive-by' crises, and more. Here you’ll find your safe space, a place where the pressures of time take a backseat, allowing you to focus on your career growth and well-being. Our goal is to inspire, providing you with the insights and tools to master your role, nurture your team, prioritize your well-being, and evolve into a career-advancing Rainmaker. Because that’s where innovation truly comes alive – at the intersection of principles, good practice, and diverse perspectives. Are you ready to elevate, step into your fullest potential, and embrace the journey to becoming a Rainmaker? Then join me each Wednesday for new episodes of the Rainmaker Podcast. Let’s make it rain!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 6, 2025 • 53min
Marketing Without Manipulation: How To Do Identity Marketing Ethically with Kelly Ruta
Are you confident your coach has the qualifications to guide you? In this week’s episode, Kelly Ruta, a clinical psychotherapist turned coach, joins me in tackling the ethical challenges plaguing the coaching industry. We candidly share frustrations, including a disappointing $1,500 one-to-one session, highlighting the prevalence of unqualified coaches and manipulative tactics.Together, we examine the emotional toll of unethical coaching and the misuse of marketing strategies that prey on vulnerability. We also discuss the vital role of intuition when selecting a coach and advocate for a more transparent, integrity-driven industry.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking guidance in a coaching relationship or looking to navigate the industry with discernment.Learn more about Kelly:Kelly Sullivan Ruta is a seasoned clinical psychotherapist of two decades who leaped into the coaching world to help entrepreneurs create the ultimate inner operating system for rapid growth without rapid breakdown.Kelly believes entrepreneurs are perfectly positioned to create a massive positive impact on the planet. But she also knows that no strategy, plan, or tactic will ever outperform one’s mindset, limiting beliefs, conditioned programs, or habits. She is obsessed with helping entrepreneurs and their teams do deep inner work, unlocking their generational wealth-building potential along the way.Kelly is a hardcore introvert, 9 Quickstart, and Enneagram 8. Her soul calls the beach home. When she isn’t working, Kelly hangs with her ride-or-die besties, has her head in a book, or is with her husband and two (mostly grown) sons.Kelly's Links:Website: www.kellyruta.comInstagram: @kellysrutaFree Radical Resilience Roundtable Replay: https://kellyruta.com/op/roundtable-registration-october-2024Connect with Veronica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vromney/If you're serious about advancing your career in marketing and you're looking for some personal insights into how then I invite you to schedule a free Pathway to Promotion call with me: https://pathwaycall.com/If you found value in today's episode, I would appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review.

Dec 16, 2024 • 44min
Why Do Marketers Really Burn Out? With Matt Gagnon
How do top performers, especially marketers, stay resilient and avoid burnout?This week, I’m joined by mindset coach and former TEDx speaker Matt Gagnon for a powerful conversation on mental health, resilience, and personal growth. Matt shares his journey from corporate life to coaching, opening up about struggles with mental health and the transformative power of vulnerability and community.We explore "atomic mornings," a flexible way to start your day, the differences between coaching and therapy, the importance of self-care, and the ethical responsibilities of coaching. Packed with actionable insights, this episode helps you prioritize well-being while achieving personal and professional success. Don’t miss it!Learn more about Matt:From corporate burnout to executive coach, Matt Gagnon has lived it all. After 15 years in the corporate grind, missing out on life's precious moments, Matt took a leap of faith and transformed his life. Now, he's the founder of Atomic Mornings, a TEDx speaker, and as the founder of Matt Gagnon Coaching he is a certified professional executive coach. Additionally he is a virtual professor at Austin Community College focusing on LinkedIn strategies and also spends weekends as a touring musician through the state of Maine.After hitting a plateau in running his own practice and on the verge of burnout again, Matt decided to make the unthinable move to become a morning person - 30 Day Custom Program designed to create a sustainable habit focused on protecting your self care supply lines. Matt believes that the world wants the best of you and not what's left of you. Matt's Links:https://linktr.ee/atomicmorningswww.linkedin.com/in/mattgagnon1IG: @IamMattGagnonIG: @Atomicmornings.ioTEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/9lwJ3FxVTF4?si=0O-1MYztau6YuKZuConnect with Veronica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vromney/If you're serious about advancing your career in marketing and you're looking for some personal insights into how then I invite you to schedule a free Pathway to Promotion call with me: https://pathwaycall.com/If you found value in today's episode, I would appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review.

Dec 2, 2024 • 1h 2min
What Does 'Abundant' Really Mean? With Cathy Heller
What does it mean to live abundantly in a world that often feels scarce? In this episode, I sit down with Cathy Heller, a podcaster with over 40 million downloads, to explore this question. Cathy shares her wisdom on redefining abundance—not as material wealth but as a life filled with well-being, purpose, and meaningful connections. Reflecting on the challenges of the past year, we discuss how to stay authentic amid societal pressures and the importance of pursuing your passions to inspire future generations. Cathy also introduces her new book, Abundant Ever After, which provides actionable tools for fostering an abundant mindset.Learn more about Cathy:Cathy is a renowned teacher, podcaster and author. She hosts one of the top spiritual podcasts, Abundant Ever After, which has been downloaded more than 45 million times. She’s a practitioner of the law of reception, and has a deep understanding of the universal principles of manifestation. Cathy guides individuals on a transformative journey towards unlocking their highest potential.Drawing from the wisdom of Jewish mysticism and ancient teachings, Cathy illuminates the path to spiritual growth and abundance. Through her unique approach, Cathy empowers students to embrace their innate ability to receive and manifest their desires effortlessly with a focus on meditation and mindfulness practices.By quieting the mind and connecting with the divine, students learn to harness their energy and create positive shifts in their lives.Through Cathy’s teachings, individuals gain practical tools and techniques to attract abundance in all areas of life, including wealth, health, relationships, and personal growth. Cathy believes that abundance is not simply about material wealth, but also about aligning with one's purpose, experiencing joy, and cultivating meaningful connections.With Cathy’s guidance, individuals unlock a life of abundance, fulfillment, and spiritual growth.Cathy's Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cathy.heller/Book: https://www.cathyheller.com/abundant-ever-after-book-1Connect with Veronica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vromney/If you're serious about advancing your career in marketing and you're looking for some personal insights into how then I invite you to schedule a free Pathway to Promotion call with me: https://pathwaycall.com/If you found value in today's episode, I would appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review.

Nov 25, 2024 • 40min
‘I Don’t Have Time to Be Human’ with Heather Chauvin
Are you caught in the cycle of ignoring your needs, telling yourself there’s no time for rest, reflection, or even being human? In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Heather Chauvin, a renowned advocate for emotional well-being, to dive deep into the struggles of high performers who push themselves to the brink.We’ll explore the concept of "time debt" and how constantly postponing self-care can lead to emotional and physical burnout. Drawing from themes of vulnerability and resilience, Heather shares strategies for setting boundaries, prioritizing your humanity, and breaking free from the relentless pursuit of productivity.This conversation is a wake-up call for anyone who feels trapped by their own expectations—tune in to learn how to reclaim your time, your health, and your sense of self.Learn more about Heather:Heather Chauvin is a leadership coach who helps ‘successful’ women courageously and authentically live, work, and parent on their own terms. Heather started her career as a social worker helping adults understand children’s behavior. But it wasn’t until 2013 when a stage 4 cancer diagnosis pushed her to take a deeper stand for change, uncovering how cultural expectations sabotage our dreams. She has been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, Real Simple Magazine, Mind Body Green, Google, and more. When Heather isn’t working, you will find her living out what she teaches which may include kayaking Alaska, snowboarding, hiking, or anything else that challenges what she believes is possible for herself (and inviting her children along the journey). Life is full of opportunities. It’s time to feel alive.Heather's Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatherchauvin_/Connect with Veronica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vromney/If you're serious about advancing your career in marketing and you're looking for some personal insights into how then I invite you to schedule a free Pathway to Promotion call with me: https://pathwaycall.com/If you found value in today's episode, I would appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review.

Nov 18, 2024 • 20min
How College Hunks Hauling Junk Built a Culture of Loyalty and Identity With Omar Soliman
What does it take to build a brand known for both service and culture? In this weeks episode I am joined by Omar Soliman, co-founder of College Hunks Hauling Junk, to explore this question. Omar discusses the company’s unique culture, which is built on trust, selective hiring, and a commitment to employee development. Approaching its 20th anniversary, College Hunks now aims for $1 billion in revenue, with Omar emphasizing a continued focus on learning, mentorship, and positive community impact.Tune in to discover how they've built a team that doesn’t just move items but inspires loyalty, positivity, and growth—within their ranks and in every community they touch. Whether you're a business leader or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers invaluable lessons on cultivating a thriving brand culture.Learn more about Omar:Omar Soliman is a published author, entrepreneur, and TV personality. He is the Co-Founder of College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk and Moving, a national junk removal and moving franchise with over 200 franchises across the country. CHHJ was named one of the fastest-growing franchises in the nation by Entrepreneur Magazine and currently employs over 10,000 people nationwide.Recognized for his entrepreneurial achievements, Omar was named 'Top 30 Entrepreneurs in America Under 30' by Inc. Magazine, awarded Ernst & Young's Entrepreneur of the Year, and honored as the International Franchise Association's Entrepreneur of the Year. Omar has also made TV appearances as a frequent guest on FOX Business News and MSNBC, and starred in the series premiere of ABC's Shark Tank as well as on CBS's Undercover Boss.Omar's Links:Website: https://www.omarsoliman.com/Website: https://www.collegehunkshaulingjunk.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/omarsolimanceoConnect with Veronica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vromney/If you're serious about advancing your career in marketing and you're looking for some personal insights into how then I invite you to schedule a free Pathway to Promotion call with me: https://pathwaycall.com/If you found value in today's episode, I would appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review.

Nov 11, 2024 • 52min
Inside Donald Trump’s 2016 Victory with His Former Campaign Manager Brad Parscale
In a world inundated with marketing messages, how do we discern between ethical persuasion and manipulative tactics? This episode delves into this complex issue with Brad Parscale, a seasoned strategist who has shaped successful political campaigns.Parscale explores the blurred lines between marketing and advertising, discussing the ethical considerations that underpin effective campaigns. He sheds light on the power of identity marketing, examining how leveraging shared identities can resonate with audiences. Additionally, the episode delves into the impact of shame culture, analyzing its effects on both individuals and organizations. Ultimately, this conversation challenges us to consider the moral implications of persuasion and the responsibility of marketers to use their influence ethically.Learn more about Brad:With nearly 20 years of experience in digital media and digital media strategy, Brad Parscale is responsible for representing hundreds of organizations throughout the United States, ranging from small business to multi-million dollar companies. In 2004, he invested his last $500 into Parscale Media, an agency focused on building websites and digital media strategy. By 2011, Brad had created a multi- million dollar company. In 2016, Brad was named Digital Director for the Donald J. Trump for President campaign, developing, implementing and managing the digital marketing strategy. Under Brad’s digital leadership and direction, President Trump not only won the presidency but also raised more money through small- dollar donations than any Republican presidential candidate in history. Currently, Brad is serving as President Donald J. Trump’s Campaign Manager for his 2020 Election Campaign.Brad's Links:X: https://x.com/parscaleConnect with Veronica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vromney/If you're serious about advancing your career in marketing and you're looking for some personal insights into how then I invite you to schedule a free Pathway to Promotion call with me: https://pathwaycall.com/If you found value in today's episode, I would appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review.

Nov 4, 2024 • 43min
Be Inspired, Don’t Steal: Navigating the Ethics of Marketing with Laura Belgray
What makes a brand truly unforgettable? This week, I dive into that question with Laura Belgray, bestselling author and celebrated copywriter, known for her unique brand, "Talking Shrimp." Initially born from a practical tax decision after getting married, Talking Shrimp has grown into a standout brand with a dedicated community of "shrimpers." Laura reveals how her brand resonates deeply by creating a sense of identity and belonging, touching on the psychology that binds communities to brands. Tune in as she offers insights into building authenticity, embracing imperfection, and infusing originality into your branding. You'll leave this episode knowing how personal stories and real connections can transform a brand into something truly memorable.Learn more about Laura:Laura Belgray is founder of Talking Shrimp, co-creator of The Copy Cure, and author of Tough Titties: On Living Your Best Life When You're the F'ing Worst. An award-winning copywriting expert, she helps entrepreneurs find the perfect words to express and sell what they do in a way that gets them paid to be themselves. Through her work with hundreds of clients (including online biggies like Marie Forleo and Amy Porterfield) she’s seen firsthand that putting “you” into your copy and all through your business is pure magic for getting people to love you up, share your ideas, and happily click your Buy button.In addition to online types, Laura’s list of clients and credits include NBC, Bravo, HBO, TBS, Fandango, and many, many more. So if you watch TV -- and don’t skip the commercials -- you've probably seen her words on air.Tough Titties, her first book, published via Hachette, is available now.Laura's Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurabelgray/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talkingshrimpTwitter: https://twitter.com/lbelgrayConnect with Veronica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vromney/If you're serious about advancing your career in marketing and you're looking for some personal insights into how then I invite you to schedule a free Pathway to Promotion call with me: https://pathwaycall.com/If you found value in today's episode, I would appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review.

Oct 28, 2024 • 56min
Making Your Ideas Supreme with Tamsen Webster
How does identity shape marketing strategies? Today, I am diving into this question with marketing expert Tamsen Webster. A message designer and strategist with over 25 years of experience, Tamsen shares insights from her upcoming book, explaining how deeply identity influences consumer behavior and decision-making. Instead of relying on fear-based tactics, she explains why we need to shift our approach so we can better align our marketing efforts with consumers' sense of self. Plus, we also explore the role of empathy in marketing, personal branding, and the transformative power of writing. Tune into this episode if you're ready for fresh insights on personal identity and personal branding strategies.Learn more about Tamsen:Part message designer, part English-to-English translator, part magpie, Tamsen Webster helps leaders craft their case for large-scale change. In addition to her work in and for major organizations such as Harvard Medical School, Fidelity Investments, and Klaviyo, she’s a judge and mentor for the Harvard Innovation Labs, a professional advisor at the Martin Trust Center for MIT Entrepreneurship, and has spent over 10 years as the Idea Strategist for one of only nine legacy-level TEDx events in the world. She was named to the Thinkers50 Radar in 2022 and is the author of two books, Find Your Red Thread: Make Your Big Ideas Irresistible and Say What They Can't Unhear: The 9 Principles of Lasting Change. She lives in Boston with her husband, two sons, and two brindle Greyhounds, Hazel and Walnut.Tamsen's Links:https://tamsenwebster.com/little-change-book/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamsenwebster/Connect with Veronica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vromney/If you're serious about advancing your career in marketing and you're looking for some personal insights into how then I invite you to schedule a free Pathway to Promotion call with me: https://pathwaycall.com/If you found value in today's episode, I would appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review.

Oct 21, 2024 • 38min
The Original Female Workwear Pants and A Red Ant Colony Identity with Sarah Calhoun
Have you wondered how a simple idea can grow into a community-driven business? In this week's episode, I'm joined by Sarah Calhoun, founder of Red Ants Pants, a company dedicated to workwear for women. Sarah opens up about her entrepreneurial journey, from identifying a gap in the market to creating a brand that empowers women in labor-intensive fields. She shares the story behind the company’s unique name and the "Red Ant Challenge," which fosters a strong connection among her customers. The discussion emphasizes how storytelling and community-building are essential for business growth and personal connections.Learn more about Sarah:Sarah Calhoun is a businesswoman and social entrepreneur living in White Sulphur Springs, Montana, United States. She is the founder of the Red Ants Pants clothing brand, which creates rugged clothing designed for women who perform blue-collar and outdoor work. From her business proceeds, she has also created a charitable foundation, and founded an annual outdoor music festival, both of which use the Red Ants Pants trademark.Sarah's Links:Red Ants Pants: https://www.facebook.com/redantspants/https://www.instagram.com/redantspants/Foundation: https://www.facebook.com/redantspantsfoundation/https://www.instagram.com/redantspantsfoundationRed Ants Pants Music Festival: https://www.facebook.com/redantspantsmusicfestival/https://www.instagram.com/redantspantsmusicfestival/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/RedAntsPantsMusicFes/videosSpotify playlists https://open.spotify.com/user/dh1d95bc0et0glukavcxf3khdConnect with Veronica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vromney/If you're serious about advancing your career in marketing and you're looking for some personal insights into how then I invite you to schedule a free Pathway to Promotion call with me: https://pathwaycall.com/If you found value in today's episode, I would appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review.

Oct 14, 2024 • 39min
What It Means To Be An Eternal "Swiftie" with Olivia Levin
In this episode, I chat with Olivia Levin, the brains behind the popular Instagram account @Swiftiesforeternity, to unpack what it truly means to be a Swiftie. We dive into the rise of Swiftie influencers, including Olivia’s journey as a content creator, and how this fandom has evolved into a powerful community that shapes personal identities and connections. We also explore the evolution of the fandom and how Swifties have transformed from casual fans into a movement with its own values and social influence. Olivia talks about the unique dynamics of the Swiftie community, where fandom goes beyond the music to embrace mutual support and advocacy. Together, we unpack the powerful impact that Taylor Swift’s artistry has on shaping cultural conversations, and how Olivia’s own journey reflects the deeper values of this vibrant community. Whether you're a die-hard Swiftie or just watching from the sidelines, this conversation is an insightful look into what it means to be part of Taylor’s world.Learn more about Olivia:Olivia Levin, also known online as Swiftiesforeternity, is a social media influencer. She started her account in 2014, and in just the last year, amassed over half a million followers. The marketing and communication major from Fairfield University is a Connecticut native but now resides in Nashville, Tennessee. She is the youngest of three. Her proudest moment is when Taylor Swift found her fan account in 2017 and invited her to her home to preview the reputation album.Olivia's Links:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/swiftiesforeternity/Connect with Veronica on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vromney/If you're serious about advancing your career in marketing and you're looking for some personal insights into how then I invite you to schedule a free Pathway to Promotion call with me: https://pathwaycall.com/If you found value in today's episode, I would appreciate it if you could leave a rating and review.