The Innovative Agency

In this episode of The Innovative Agency podcast, Sharon Toerek sits down with Jarrod Lopiccolo, co-founder of Noble Studios, for a powerful conversation on the game-changing impact of strategic partnerships.  Jarrod pulls back the curtain on how he forged a thriving joint venture with a UK-based firm, and why building relationships beyond borders is a must for modern agencies.  Jarrod shares the opportunities, challenges, and mindset shifts needed to expand globally, collaborate effectively, and stay ahead in an ever-evolving marketing and advertising landscape.  What you will learn in this episode:  The benefits of strategic partnerships for agency growth and differentiation How to form successful collaborations across international borders The role of cultural understanding in building strong agency alliances Tips for assessing and choosing the right partners for agency collaboration How cross-agency partnerships can lead to new revenue streams Insights on creating international travel programs to enhance agency culture Bio Jarrod Lopiccolo is a leader in creative digital performance marketing with a background in architecture. With his wife Season as co-founder, Jarrod has led Noble Studios as CEO, building it from the ground up and collaborating with top global brands such as Adobe, Google, and the Islands of Tahiti. Their visionary leadership has earned the agency accolades like the AdAge “Best Places to Work - 2024” and Inc “2023 Best in Business - Advertising” awards. Jarrod's passion for exploring new technologies is contagious, and he brings that energy and excitement to every conversation, showing how innovations like AI, sustainability and personalization are reshaping digital marketing and driving unprecedented results. Resources: Website: https://noblestudios.com/ LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jarrodlopiccolo/  LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/noble-studios/ Business Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/noblestudios/

In this episode of The Innovative Agency Podcast,  Sharon Toerek delves into the future of AI in marketing agencies with Brandon White, CEO of 3rd Brain Digital. Brandon unveils his powerful 5-level framework for AI integration—breaking down how agencies can harness automation to boost efficiency, profitability, and scalability.  From streamlining workflows to building a unified data layer, he shares actionable strategies that balance cutting-edge technology with the irreplaceable value of human expertise. If you're looking to stay ahead in the AI revolution, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. What you will learn in this episode:  The importance of documenting processes before implementing AI. How to understand the 5-level framework for AI operational integration. The significance of creating a unified data layer for seamless operations. How to identify and address inefficiencies within your agency. The evolving role of human intervention in AI-driven workflows. Best practices for agency-client discussions about AI integration. Bio Brandon White is an experienced entrepreneur, investor, and former venture capitalist with two successful business exits. He started his career by building one of the earliest social networks, which he later sold. Brandon has worked in marketing at America Online and now serves as the CEO of 3rd Brain, where he helps companies integrate AI and automation to improve operational efficiency. His real-world experience on both sides of the business table—building companies and investing in them—gives him a unique perspective on business growth and innovation. Resources: Company Website: https://www.3rdbrain.co/ Personal Website: https://brandoncwhite.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/3rd-brain-automation/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrandonCWhite The Productivity Podcast: https://brandoncwhite.com/best-podcast-network/ 5Qs Podcast: https://feeds.captivate.fm/5qs-podcast/

On today’s episode of The Innovative Agency Podcast Sharon Toerek welcomes Max Bidna, a former agency owner and now a thriving media business entrepreneur. Max shares how he strategically scaled and sold his marketing agency, paving the way for exciting new ventures.  From building systems that make agencies irresistible to buyers, to knowing the right time and reason to sell, Marketing Max delivers actionable insights owners need to hear to make their agency a desirable acquisition target.  What you will learn in this episode:  How detailed documentation of systems and processes can increase your agency's appeal to potential buyers. Creating a smooth transition plan to maintain team stability post-sale. The significant impact of market conditions on agency valuations and exit multiples. Client acquisition strategies and how to maintain profit margins. Tips for identifying and vetting potential buyers to ensure a smooth acquisition process. Max Bidna is a serial entrepreneur who built & sold an award-winning 7 figure ad agency. Since then, he's earned more than 200,000+ total followers with impactful marketing content. Through his agency, 1-on-1 consulting, & portfolio of businesses, Max's work has driven $100m+ in attributable revenue for brands of all shapes & sizes. He has been privileged to help grow 250+ amazing brands. Whether optimizing ad campaigns based on $10m+ in managed ad spend experience, building dozens of outside-the-box high-ROI marketing funnels, or teaching growth marketing tactics, Max helps companies grow faster. Resources: Website: https://www.growthdaily.com/ LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maxbidna/ LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/marty-capital/ X: https://x.com/MarketingMax How Can Max Help You: https://www.marketingmax.io/

Today on the Innovative Agency Podcast, Sharon Toerek welcomes April White from Trust Relations, a nationwide strategic communications firm.  April delves into the timely and crucial topic of building trust within the marketing and communications landscape. As trust becomes increasingly vital for brands navigating a complex media environment, April shares her expertise on establishing authenticity and maintaining credibility. Tune in to learn how to counsel your clients on rebuilding trust when it's broken and why having solid proof points is essential for any brand's communication strategy. What you will learn in this episode:  The crucial role of trust in today's media consumption and brand relationships. Insight into the culture challenges at large agencies and how they impact client trust. The significance of authenticity and individuality in fostering team cohesion and productivity. Practical steps to rebuild brand trust after a misstep and the importance of proof points. Strategies for advising clients on how to develop and sustain trust with their target audiences. How you can integrate trust-building measures systematically within a brand's operations. Bio After working at some of the best PR agencies in the world, Trust Relations’ CEO & Founder April White was fed up with the old way of doing things in PR, so she founded the agency that she wished existed. A seasoned communications specialist, official TEDx speaker and writer with both B2B and B2C experience, April is as creative as she is strategic. With nearly 20 years of experience representing Fortune 100 companies and their executives at leading public relations agencies including Weber Shandwick, Edelman, Spong and Rubenstein Public Relations, she is skilled at developing targeted communications programs that convey strategic messaging, compelling narratives, intangible brand attributes and subtle points of differentiation. April has experience not only with marquee brands including MasterCard Worldwide, MetLife International, Sotheby's International Realty, Hyatt, Rosetta Stone, Petco, American Standard, The Dannon Company, YellowTail Wines, Sealed Air, and eMusic, but also with startups including Beekeeper, Softomotive (acquired by Microsoft), NEXT Trucking, Richr, Wilbur, Picnic Tax and Suzy. The former award-winning journalist started her own company in 2013 and coined the term “Trust Relations” in 2019, which led to the creation of the strategic communications agency Trust Relations. April received her B.A. in Journalism and Mass Communications from Iowa State University and continued studying integrated communications at Columbia University’s master’s program in Strategic Communications in New York City. She is an official member and contributor of the Forbes Agency Council, Entrepreneur and Newsweek. Resources: Website: https://trustrelations.agency/ LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aprilnicollewhite/ LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trustrelations/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/trustrelations X: https://x.com/TrustPRelations The PR Wine Down Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLK6KEIu0mK5DCmz6LXHXHC896MplJmND2  

In this episode of The Innovative Agency Podcast Sharon Torek welcomes Founder of Cobble Hill Digital, Austin Dandridge. He discusses the essential strategies for adding value in service-based businesses and the unique challenges faced when onboarding new clients.  Austin outlines the differences in advising small or early-stage startups versus growth-stage businesses and shares his perspective on the importance of aligning with client needs and goals. He also delves into the transformative role of AI and automation in advertising and how agencies can adapt to maintain a strategic advantage. What you will learn in this episode:  The critical importance of adding value during the onboarding process for new clients. How to tailor marketing strategies for small businesses versus growth-stage enterprises. Strategies for managing advertising budgets while leaving room for experimental channels. The role of AI and automation in reducing manual tasks in advertising, allowing agencies to focus on creativity and strategy. How to navigate the blurred lines between direct-to-consumer brands and legacy brands in today’s market. The evolving importance of specialized service offerings in modern agencies and how they can provide a competitive edge. Austin Dandridge is the visionary CEO of Cobble Hill and a seasoned digital marketing expert. For over 12 years, Cobble Hill has provided award-winning digital marketing for e-commerce and hospitality clients such as Draper James, Frances Valentine, Cynthia Rowley, Freda Salvador, Marysia, Lake Pajamas and more.. Resources: Website: https://cobblehilldigital.com/ LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/austin-dandridge-47593016/ LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cobble-hill/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cobblehilldigital X: https://x.com/austindandridge The Marketing Factor Podcast: https://www.themarketingfactor.tv/  

Today on the Innovative Agency Podcast Sharon Toerek welcomes Lydia Martinez, CEO and Founder of Elle Marketing and Events. Lydia delves into the transformative shifts in event planning and marketing brought about by the pandemic, sharing how her team pivoted from in-person to digital events and the lasting effects on attendee preferences.   Listen as Lydia offers invaluable insights on leveraging experiential marketing to enhance client relationships and extend the life of your events beyond their actual occurrence. What you will learn in this episode:    The growing trend of blending digital and in-person options to meet diverse attendee preferences. The critical traits to look for when hiring for experiential marketing roles. Lydia’s personal insights on maintaining flexibility and resilience in event planning. Strategies for extending the life and value of your event through digital content. How to adapt old marketing strategies to leverage new social platforms and communication methods effectively. Bio Lydia Martinez is the Founder and CEO of Elle Marketing and Events. An entrepreneur at heart, Lydia started her first business at 8 years old, selling tree-climbing lessons to neighborhood kids. After tackling over 11 years in strategic marketing, branding, social media, and event planning for powerhouse retailers Barnes & Noble and Whole Foods Market, Lydia decided it was time to get back to her entrepreneurial roots.  Lydia launched what was to become Elle Marketing 2009 purely as a consulting business on the side. In 2015 she left her corporate career to become a full-time entrepreneur. Since 2015, Elle Marketing has grown into a full-service creative marketing agency with a team of 30. Resources: Website: https://ellemarketingandevents.com/ LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydiamartinez/ LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/elle-marketing-and-events/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmjxN3l33hC6a_J00HzFL6g Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ellemarketingandevents/  

In this episode of The Innovative Agency Podcast, Sharon Toerek is joined by Emily Green, Founder of Grace Communications. Emily shares her inspiring journey of starting, growing, and ultimately selling her agency while emphasizing the critical mindset shifts that accompany such a significant transition.    As someone who has navigated the entrepreneurial landscape from inception to exit at a relatively young age, Emily provides invaluable insights into building a strong internal culture, creating a culture of attraction, and ensuring your agency's marketability.    Whether you're contemplating an exit strategy or looking to enhance the longevity and appeal of your agency, this conversation offers practical advice that will resonate with marketing agency owners at all stages of their careers.   What you will learn in this episode:    The mindset shifts crucial for agency owners considering an exit strategy. How creating a culture of attraction aids in attracting and retaining top talent. Considerations in making your agency attractive to potential buyers. Strategies for sustaining agency growth through aligned client relationships. Practical advice on maintaining personal and professional balance during major transitions. Bio   Emily Green has founded two successful businesses during her career; Grace Communications, a marketing agency with clients across the country, and Emily Green LLC, her personal brand that provides public speaking, solopreneur consulting, as well as personal and professional development workshops. Emily created Grace Communications from the ground up and scaled the agency in 5.5 years with a presence in over 10 states. After selling the company, she brought her personal vision and passion to life by launching Emily Green, LLC to inspire audiences by sharing her unique experiences through speaking and consulting.    Emily is also an accomplished TEDx speaker who has been featured in conferences around the country. She focuses on a variety of dynamic topics that include everything from business growth and marketing strategies to personal development with presentations on confidence, toxic love, wellness, and gracefully "saying no." She is also currently in the process of writing her first book and launching a podcast focused on her TEDx topic, "The Weaponization of Love."   Resources:   Website: https://emily-green.com/ LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-green-9ab76732 LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/emily-green-llc/ Emily's TEDx Talk: The Weaponization of Love

In this episode of The Innovative Agency Podcast, Sharon Toerek is joined by Jennifer Filzen, the dynamic Founder of Rockstar Marketing. They explore the art and science of managing a thriving remote team while building a resilient company culture.    Jennifer reveals her innovative 'PASTA Method'—a game-changing approach to team management—and shares the incredible story of how a single vacation transformed her business’s trajectory.   Whether you're leading a remote team or simply looking for inspiration to grow your agency, this episode is packed with insights, strategies, and Jennifer’s signature Rockstar energy. What you will learn in this episode:    Why feeling indispensable as a business owner can hinder your agency’s growth. How the 'PASTA Method' can transform your team dynamics and operational success. Real-life examples of supporting remote employees without overextending financial resources. The value of building a strong company culture through praise and recognition. Insights into moving past stagnant business growth by trusting and empowering your team.   Bio   Jennifer Filzen is the GRAMMY-Qualified Rock Star who founded Rock Star Marketing and is the author of The Give To Get Principle. She believes that storytelling is the best marketing, especially when you share what makes you special and unique.   Rock Star Marketing specializes in telling our clients’ stories via SEO content, social media marketing, customized blogs, and video marketing.   Jennifer loves to teach marketing classes at live and virtual events and is known for her fun, interactive, teaching style.   Jennifer is the author of The Give To Get Principle, What Dancing Taught Me About Running A Successful Business, and How To Make Your Dance Business Profitable.   Jennifer also co-owns The West Coast Swing Dance Company with her husband, and they teach dance across the country. Resources: Website: https://rock-star-mktg.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferfilzen/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rock-star-marketing/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rockstarmktg/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rockstarmktg/ X: https://x.com/RockStarMRY

In this episode of The Innovative Agency Podcast, Sharon Toerek welcomes guest Wendy Covey. Wendy is the Co-Founder and CEO of TREW Marketing, and has mastered the craft of using books and research reports to amplify her agency’s authority.     Wendy emphasizes the importance of thought leadership and how her agency turned intellectual property into an authoritative advantage, helping them secure more speaking engagements and streamline the sales process.   If you’re ready to unlock the power of expertise to fuel your agency’s growth and generate quality leads, this episode is for you.   What you will learn in this episode:    How creating and sharing intellectual property can establish your agency as a sector leader. The benefits and long-term impacts of authoring a book that targets your niche market. Strategies for converting content assets into revenue-generating products. The benefits of using data and research to back marketing recommendations. How to diversify your income streams through non-consulting sources.   Bio   Wendy Covey is the CEO and Co-Founder of TREW Marketing, working with companies targeting highly technical buyers. She is the author and podcast host of Content Marketing, Engineered, named one of The Wall Street Journal’s 10 Most Innovative Entrepreneurs in America...and she holds a Texas fishing record.   Resources:   Website: https://www.trewmarketing.com/ LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendycovey/ LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trew-marketing/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBqVji94sPTQ5d4NBts1oUw State of Marketing to Engineers Research Report: https://www.trewmarketing.com/state-of-marketing-to-engineers-research-report Podcast: Content Marketing, Engineered: https://www.trewmarketing.com/podcast Event: Industrial Marketing Summit: https://industrialmarketingsummit.com/

In this episode of The Innovative Agency Podcast, host Sharon Toerek sits down with Jason Kramer, founder of Cultivize, to discuss strategies for reducing client churn in marketing agencies. Jason shares his expertise on how agencies can enhance client retention by improving performance conversations, understanding clients' CRM systems, and building trust through open communication. Tune in to discover how to foster long-term client relationships to minimize churn in a competitive landscape.   What you will learn in this episode:    The importance of understanding clients’ sales processes and CRM systems to align lead generation and conversion. Key questions agencies should ask clients during the discovery phase to ensure alignment. Strategies for fostering collaboration between marketing and sales teams to improve client satisfaction. How nurturing leads over longer sales cycles can build trust and position the agency as an expert. The value of strategic partnerships for filling gaps in expertise and improving service offerings. Tips for confidently discussing performance metrics with clients to build trust and clarity. How to create additional revenue streams through retainer models and revenue-sharing agreements.   Bio   Jason Kramer is the founder of Cultivize, a consulting firm that specializes in B2B lead nurturing strategies and technology. With 15 years of experience running a creative agency, Jason identified revenue gaps in marketing and sales funnels for distributors, service providers, marketing agencies and manufacturers. He launched Cultivize to provide customized solutions and empower businesses to connect prospect and customer data with marketing campaigns and sales team activities. When not strategizing in CRM, he enjoys family time with his wife, two kids, and two dogs in their lively New York home.   Resources:   Website: https://cultivize.com/ LinkedIn Personal: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonleighkramer/ Facebook Business: https://www.facebook.com/cultivize/ Twitter Business: https://x.com/cultivize YouTube Business: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwbLwcOh0_fAeID-wtjpeGg?view_as=subscriber Lead Nurturing Guide E-book: https://cultivize.com/learnmore/ How marketing agencies can pitch marketing/sales automation: https://koi-5ZI3X5NY.marketingautomation.services/net/m?md=1ubzGwHF4FR%2B0m9pHvzBrbjLEDYoVNQ4YeSbXhgwJAM%3D Agency partner program: https://cultivize.com/agency-program/ Lead Nurturing Guide: www.afterthelead.com