Build a Better Agency Podcast

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.

In this engaging discussion, pricing consultant Casey Brown, a renowned expert in pricing strategy, shares her invaluable insights for agency owners. She tackles the common hurdles of setting and negotiating prices, offering strategies to maintain pricing integrity and confidently showcase value. Casey emphasizes the importance of emotional and tactical preparation in negotiations, urging listeners to embrace the power of 'no.' As agencies gear up for potential economic shifts in 2025, her advice on adaptive pricing strategies becomes even more critical.

Explore the transformative power of one-on-one meetings with insights on why they should be integral to leadership strategies. Discover a practical framework that empowers team members to lead discussions while addressing personal check-ins and growth goals. Learn how fostering these connections can enhance agency culture and drive employee engagement. This approach not only mitigates challenges but also promotes continuous learning, ensuring that everyone, from new hires to veterans, stays invested in success.

Join leadership and workplace culture expert Sarah Noll Wilson as she shares her insights on fostering genuine connection in agencies. With nearly 20 years of experience, Sarah discusses the evolution of workplace communication and the importance of psychological safety and trust. She highlights the challenges leaders face in managing talent and bridging the gender gap in leadership roles. Discover actionable strategies to create a culture of respect, inclusivity, and emotional maturity, ensuring your team feels valued and engaged in today's work environment.