Build a Better Agency Podcast

In this discussion, Susan Baier, a co-founder of Agency Core and audience research specialist, and Brian Gerstner, also a co-founder and expert in outsourced agency services, reveal sobering insights from their latest research. They highlight the distinct challenges agencies face, including staffing issues and declining optimism. The conversation explores the critical need for strategic differentiation, community support, and effective client retention strategies. They also address how agencies can leverage AI to enhance business relationships while remaining adaptable to market demands.

Celebrating a major milestone, the host reflects on invaluable lessons from a decade of agency insights. They emphasize agency life as a long marathon, highlighting the significance of teamwork and mental well-being. The importance of surrounding yourself with the right people shines through, along with the need for strong core values in navigating challenges. Commitment to community and leading with love are stressed as keys to business success. The heartfelt reflections offer both inspiration and practical takeaways for agency leaders.

In this engaging talk, negotiation expert Mike Lander shares his dual insights from being a former procurement director and current advisor to agencies. He unveils the common missteps agencies make after winning new business, emphasizing the transition to nurturing ongoing client relationships. Mike discusses essential strategies for contract negotiation, focusing on mutual value creation rather than discounts. He also highlights the importance of differentiation and effective pitching, providing actionable tactics for agencies to secure profitable deals.

Ryan Gerding, CEO of Inc. Public Relations and a seasoned expert with over 22 years in PR, joins the discussion. He shares insights on the transformation of public relations from traditional media to storytelling in the digital age. Ryan highlights the importance of building genuine relationships with media, emphasizing a helpful approach over mere coverage chasing. Additionally, he discusses how AI can assist in PR tasks while noting its limitations in creativity, offering practical advice to enhance agency visibility and credibility in today’s media landscape.

Join Cynthia Kane, a mindful communication expert, as she shares her transformative journey from passive-aggressive exchanges to effective dialogue. Discover techniques for fostering inner calm and clarity amidst chaos, essential for leaders in times of change. Learn the power of pausing during tough conversations to regain composure and improve outcomes. Cynthia introduces practical breathing exercises and emphasizes intentional communication over winning arguments, enhancing trust and collaboration within teams. Perfect insights for both professional and personal growth!

Lee McKnight, a key player from RSW, shares insights on new agency-client dynamics set for 2025. He discusses the positive trends in agency spending and emphasizes the enduring power of referrals and the necessity for proactive outreach. With the rise of in-house teams, he advises agencies to leverage specialized expertise. The conversation also highlights the transformative impact of AI and the shift to deliverable-based pricing, urging agencies to stay ahead by continually adapting to market changes.

Drew McLellan dives deep into redefining agency growth, urging owners to look beyond mere headcount and gross billings. He emphasizes enhancing adjusted gross income by maximizing existing client relationships. Innovative team structures and leveraging global talent are discussed to boost efficiency and retention. The podcast highlights the value of nurturing client trust and internal education for improved relationships. Ultimately, true growth translates into better compensation for owners, focusing on holistic agency success.

In this insightful discussion, veteran leader Jim Fielding, who boasts an impressive 35+ year career at Disney and DreamWorks, shares his journey toward authentic leadership. He emphasizes the importance of vulnerability and self-awareness, particularly for those in marginalized communities. Jim also talks about strategies for effective communication and adaptability during turbulent times. The conversation highlights the critical role of diversity in team dynamics and the ongoing importance of feedback and accountability in fostering a positive workplace culture.

In this engaging discussion, leadership expert Suzanna de Baca, who transitioned from Wall Street to CEO roles and now teaches at Iowa State University, shares her insights on transformative leadership. She highlights the importance of emotional intelligence and strategic thinking in today’s fast-paced world. Suzanna distinguishes between management and true leadership, emphasizing the need for clear communication and vision to inspire teams. With practical advice, she encourages leaders to foster engagement through dialogue and adaptability, ensuring their organizations thrive.

Kevin Eikenberry, a leadership expert with over 30 years of experience, delves into the evolving nature of leadership in today's work environments. He highlights the necessity of flexibility and genuine connections, especially in remote settings post-COVID. The discussion emphasizes integrating mindset, skill set, and habits to bridge gaps in leadership development. Eikenberry shares actionable strategies for fostering authentic communication and continuous growth, proving that effective leadership can indeed be learned and refined.