Podcast Summary: Cultural Branding, DEI, and Creative Authenticity with Bre Fernandez

In this episode, Sacha Awwa sits down with Bre Fernandez—an award-winning Associate Creative Director, professor of advertising at the University of Miami and Miami Ad School, and rising local comedian. Known for her bold creative voice and deep cultural fluency, Bre unpacks her unconventional journey from law school dropout to creative leader, touching on everything from the importance of representation in branding to how comedy fuels her storytelling.

With firsthand experience in both multicultural and general market advertising, Bre offers a refreshing and unfiltered perspective on navigating the “brovertising” world, the evolution of DEI, and why authenticity, nuance, and research are non-negotiable in successful campaigns today.

Whether you’re a small business owner, marketer, or creative looking to make work that actually resonates, this conversation is packed with insight—and laughs.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. From Law School to Ad World

• Bre’s Cuban upbringing and traditional career expectations
• Discovering creative advertising through Miami Ad School
• Cracking into a legacy-driven, network-dependent industry

2. The Cultural Layer of Branding

• Why DEI and multicultural advertising are not interchangeable
• How diverse internal teams lead to stronger external messaging
• Dissecting tone-deaf campaigns (hello, Kendall Jenner/Pepsi)

3. DEI in Advertising: Beyond Buzzwords

• Why diversity must go beyond optics to real decision-making power
• The role of DEI post-2020 and how it’s being politicized today
• Representation vs. inclusion: who’s in the room vs. who’s heard

4. Human-Centered Creativity in an AI World

• Why AI is a tool, not a replacement for nuanced storytelling
• The risk of creative atrophy when we rely too heavily on tech
• Teaching students to balance innovation with critical thinking

5. Brand Authenticity & Speaking to Real Audiences

• Why research matters more than assumptions
• Why brands need to know their primary, secondary, and tertiary audiences
• Case studies of brands that got it right (Dove, Nike) and wrong (Bud Light, Heineken)

6. Entrepreneurship, Comedy, and the Creative Outlet

• Why having a creative outlet is crucial to avoid burnout
• Bre’s emerging comedy career and using humor as a form of cultural commentary
• Juggling multiple identities and finding alignment between personal voice and professional work

Key Takeaways for Creatives & Entrepreneurs:

• Research is not optional. You can’t speak to a culture you haven’t studied or experienced.
• AI can help, but creativity needs a human pulse. Don’t let technology dilute your voice.
• Authenticity is currency. Consumers see through performative branding—real wins every time.
• Diverse voices build better campaigns. It’s not just good ethics—it’s good business.
• Start where your audience lives. Whether that’s Facebook Marketplace or stand-up mics, your people are somewhere—go meet them there.

🎤 Follow Bre’s work in advertising, her hilarious takes in the comedy world, and her insights on LinkedIn under #Breisms.

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Podcast Summary: Building Thought Leadership with Zachary Bernard, Founder of We Feature You

In this episode, Sacha Awwa welcomes Zachary Bernard, a 21-year-old entrepreneur and the founder of We Feature You, a public relations firm helping clients become recognized thought leaders through strategic media placements. Based in Dieppe, New Brunswick, Canada, Zachary has worked with hundreds of clients across North America since launching the agency in 2021. His firm’s unique value lies in helping businesses—especially early-stage and underfunded ones—leverage PR and podcasting to establish credibility, build authority, and grow their influence.

From landing press in Forbes and Entrepreneur to using podcast appearances as core marketing assets, Zachary explains how companies can tap into PR without needing a massive budget. He shares how he built his business by “doing what he preaches,” and why storytelling, authenticity, and consistency matter more than ever in today’s media-saturated world.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. Zachary’s Journey Into PR & Entrepreneurship

• Starting as a gamer selling in-game items
• The realization that marketing drives all business
• Launching We Feature You while still in university
• Leaving school to go full-time into entrepreneurship

2. Making PR Accessible for Small Businesses

• Why PR isn’t just for unicorn startups
• How even a $1K investment can move the needle
• Starting with HARO, Connectively, and other DIY PR tools
• Why credibility matters more than traffic in the early stages

3. Why Podcasting Became Central to PR

• Podcasting as a personal storytelling and authority-building tool
• The shift from traditional PR to podcast-based branding
• Repurposing podcast content for SEO, social, and sales
• Why video-based podcasting is the future of founder visibility

4. Building Thought Leadership That Converts

• How to pitch value, not just a story
• The power of third-party validation
• Differentiating between “first-person” and “third-person” proof
• Using podcast clips in onboarding and sales enablement

5. Trends in Media, PR, and Authentic Branding

• Authenticity in a post-AI world
• The rise of founder-led brand narratives
• Leveraging podcasts as evergreen content
• Why transparency and credibility are becoming non-negotiable

6. Overcoming Barriers to Entry in PR

• Debunking the myth that PR is too expensive
• When PR is (and isn’t) the right marketing investment
• How to measure success when results aren’t always direct-response
• Why PR amplifies your existing marketing instead of replacing it

7. Zach’s Process for Onboarding Clients

• Strategy-driven outreach tailored to each founder’s voice
• Focusing on podcasts that deliver both reach and relevance
• How he preps clients to speak to both personal and professional stories
• Setting expectations and ensuring clients use the media assets

Key Takeaways for Founders & Business Owners:

• Start small, but start smart—you don’t need a massive budget to begin building authority.
• Use what you create—repurpose podcast content into marketing gold.
• PR doesn’t replace marketing—it enhances it when done right.
• Third-party validation builds trust faster than any sales page.
• Authenticity and consistency win—especially in a world where AI-generated content is on the rise.

Connect with Zachary & We Feat

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Podcast Summary: The Evolution of Influencer Marketing with Paula Bruno, CEO of Intuition Media Group

In this episode, Paula Bruno, CEO and founder of Intuition Media Group, joins the show to unpack the ever-evolving world of influencer marketing. With over 15 years of experience in the space, Paula has been at the forefront since its early days—helping shape influencer compensation models, brand collaborations, and authentic creator-brand relationships.

From Twitter parties to TikTok, Paula walks us through the industry’s transformation and what brands need to know to successfully navigate this marketing channel today. Her agency has worked with major brands like Canon USA, TikTok, GoDaddy, and Hyundai—managing over 750 campaigns and generating 3 billion impressions.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. The Early Days of Influencer Marketing

• From a male-dominated industry to founding Intuition Media Group
• How Twitter parties and blogger communities pioneered influencer culture
• Hosting one of the largest women’s blogging conferences in the U.S.

2. The Rise of Instagram & Beyond

• How the influencer landscape shifted from blogs to Instagram and video content
• The growth of influencer platforms and networks
• Why Instagram became a key driver of brand engagement

3. Strategy Behind Influencer Selection

• Why follower count doesn’t equal influence
• The importance of authenticity and brand alignment
• Educating brands on letting go of control and trusting creators

4. Best Practices for Brands Getting Started

• Establish clear KPIs and be willing to pivot
• Give influencers creative freedom within brand guardrails
• Focus on engagement, not just visibility

5. Influencer Marketing Trends in 2025

• Diversification beyond TikTok (YouTube Shorts, LinkedIn, Instagram Reels)
• The growth of micro-communities (Substack, Discord, Threads)
• Live shopping and creator-led commerce
• Ethical and sustainable brand partnerships
• AI-assisted content and the legal implications of using AI

6. Micro-Influencers, Local Strategies, and Affordability

• How even small businesses can smartly tap into influencer marketing
• Leveraging local creators and product gifting
• Tips for brands that don’t have $200K budgets

7. Legal & Ethical Considerations Around AI

• Why disclosing AI use in campaigns is essential
• How AI is shaping discovery, scripting, and editing
• The role of contracts and legal preparedness in content usage

Key Takeaways for Marketers & Business Owners:

• Don’t over-prioritize follower count—authenticity wins.
• Know your KPIs and align content strategy with your goals.
• Test, learn, pivot. Influencer marketing is about relationships and resonance.
• Micro-communities and live commerce are on the rise—lean in now.
• AI is powerful, but brands must be aware of compliance and IP risks.

Connect with Paula & Intuition Media Group:
🌐 Website: Intuition Media Group
📸 Instagram: @intuitionmediagroup
📩 LinkedIn: Paula Bruno

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Podcast Summary: Exploring Transformation with Ragnhild G. Isdahl, Founder of The New Viking

In this episode, Ragnhild G. Isdahl, founder of The New Viking, joins the show to share her journey of transformation—from a corporate marketing career to a path of holistic healing, retreats, and online courses. Born in Norway and raised across multiple countries due to her father's work in the cruise industry, Ragnhild’s global perspective shaped her deep connection to exploration, heritage, and self-discovery.

Through The New Viking, Ragnhild blends ancient Nordic wisdom with modern transformation techniques, offering immersive retreats and online programs designed to guide individuals toward inner growth, meditation, and connection with their roots.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. The Journey from Corporate to Holistic Entrepreneurship

• Ragnhild’s early career in international branding and marketing at L’Oréal
• The transition from a high-pressure corporate job to entrepreneurship
• Overcoming personal challenges and finding meditation as a transformative tool

2. The Meaning Behind The New Viking

• How a TV pilot idea evolved into retreats and digital courses
• The shift from external exploration to inward self-discovery
• Why curiosity and adventure are at the core of The New Viking brand

3. The Synergy Between Vikings and Meditation

• How Vikings embodied not just conquest but curiosity, entrepreneurship, and adaptability
• The parallels between ancient exploration and the modern journey of self-discovery
• The role of meditation in navigating life’s internal battles

4. Building a Business in Holistic Wellness

• Challenges of launching and sustaining a retreat-based business
• How COVID-19 disrupted plans and led to a pivot into online courses
• The importance of perseverance and trusting the journey

5. Meditation as a Tool for Entrepreneurs and Leaders

• How meditation fosters creativity, clarity, and emotional resilience
• Why successful leaders integrate mindfulness into their routines
• Practical tips for anyone starting their meditation practice

6. Advice for Entrepreneurs on Their Journey

• Use meditation as a check-in tool—intuition can guide business decisions
• Seek advice without fear—asking for help opens doors and opportunities
• Understand that ‘no’ isn’t failure—it may be a pivot toward a better path

Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs & Business Owners:

• Your journey may not be linear, but every challenge contributes to growth.
• Meditation isn’t just for relaxation—it’s a tool for strategic clarity and resilience.
• If you're passionate about something, perseverance will carry you through obstacles.

Connect with Ragnhild & The New Viking:

• Website
• Instagram: @TheNewViking
• Subscribe to the Newsletter on Substack

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In this episode, Omar Alvarez, founder of Kinnect, joins the show to discuss how his platform is redefining relationships by helping people preserve their most meaningful moments. As a first-generation Puerto Rican and Guatemalan entrepreneur, Omar brings a wealth of marketing and growth experience from major brands like Nike, Levi’s, and Hims & Hers to the startup world. His journey into relationship-tech is deeply personal, inspired by loss, legacy, and the need for more authentic, private ways to capture family memories.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. The Inspiration Behind Kinnect

• How Omar’s experience at top companies shaped his entrepreneurial mindset
• The personal losses that sparked his vision for a legacy-preserving platform
• The realization that inclusivity in tech goes beyond hiring—it’s about serving diverse communities authentically

2. The Importance of Preserving Memories in a Digital Age

• Why traditional social media isn’t built for personal, long-lasting memory sharing
• The emotional and psychological impact of capturing life’s moments privately
• How Kinnect is bridging the gap between technology and human connection

3. Navigating the Leap from Corporate to Entrepreneurship

• Transitioning from well-funded corporate roles to the uncertainty of startups
• The mental resilience required to leave stability behind and build something new
• Learning to let go of assumptions about who will support you on the journey

4. The Reality of Building a Community-Driven Product

• How to engage Reddit, TikTok, and Instagram communities for organic growth
• Why word-of-mouth and authentic engagement matter more than paid ads
• The role of partnerships in growing a mission-driven business

5. Fundraising as a First-Generation Latino & Queer Entrepreneur

• The challenges of accessing venture capital as an underrepresented founder
• How to find niche investment communities that align with your values
• A powerful story of overcoming adversity in the investment world and proving resilience

6. Key Lessons in Entrepreneurship & Marketing

• Why marketers make great founders (and shouldn’t be underestimated)
• The importance of positioning, customer research, and community-building
• How shifting go-to-market messaging can unlock growth instantly

Key Takeaways for Entrepreneurs & Business Owners:

• For entrepreneurs: Self-belief is key, but so is surrounding yourself with mentors and supportive communities
• For marketers: Your ability to understand customers and create effective positioning is a superpower in business
• For everyone: If you don’t put yourself out there and ask for help, connections, or funding, no one will know you need it

Connect with Omar Alvarez & Learn More About Kinnect:

• Visit Kinnect’s website
• Follow Omar on LinkedIn

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Jake Prieur, co-founder of VideoScale, joins the show to discuss how his unlimited video editing service is transforming content creation for businesses and creators. With a flat monthly fee model, VideoScale is making professional video editing accessible and affordable while addressing common pain points in the industry.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. The Origin Story of VideoScale

• How Jake's experience with previous agencies revealed a gap in the video editing market
• The challenges of finding reliable, skilled editors at reasonable prices
• Why the unlimited subscription model was created to solve these industry-wide problems

2. Video as an Essential Marketing Tool

• Why video has become a non-negotiable element of modern marketing strategies
• How businesses can use video to build trust and connect with potential customers
• The importance of showing the human side of a business through video content

3. Practical Video Production Tips for Non-Professionals

• Essential equipment recommendations: smartphone cameras, lighting, and audio solutions
• Why you don't need expensive gear to create high-quality content
• Simple solutions for recording solo, including tripods, stands, and creative alternatives

4. Content Repurposing and Platform Optimization

• How to slice and dice longer content into multiple platform-specific pieces
• The importance of understanding different aspect ratios and platform requirements
• Leveraging one video shoot to create weeks of varied content

5. The Role of AI in Video Editing

• How VideoScale incorporates AI tools to enhance (not replace) human editors
• The limitations of AI in understanding context and emotional nuance
• Why human oversight remains essential even as AI capabilities advance

6. Breaking Into Video Content Creation

• Why perfection shouldn't be a barrier to getting started
• The value of "just turning on the camera and talking"
• How professional editing can transform even simple footage into compelling content

7. Evolving Video Marketing Platforms and Strategies

• The growing importance of LinkedIn for professional video content
• How different platforms require different approaches to content creation
• Why mastering existing channels matters more than chasing new platforms

Key Takeaways for Businesses and Content Creators:

• For businesses: Video is essential for building trust and connections with potential customers
• For content creators: Don't let perfectionism stop you—starting with simple equipment and improving over time is better than not starting at all
• For everyone: Focus on consistency and quality rather than expensive equipment or perfect execution

Connect with Jake Prieur:

• Visit VideoScale's website
• Follow on LinkedIn

Retry

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Rebecca Shaddix, a seasoned marketer and go-to-market strategist, joins the show to share her expertise in driving revenue growth across industries like education, healthcare, and SaaS. As a Forbes contributor and thought leader, Rebecca brings a unique blend of data-driven marketing, empathetic leadership, and a keen understanding of the evolving marketing landscape.

Key Topics Discussed:

1. The Role of Empathetic Leadership in Marketing

• How balancing high expectations with trust fosters a strong marketing team.
• The power of letting small tests and failures lead to big wins.
• Why leaders must step back and allow data, not just personal preferences, to drive marketing decisions.

2. Data-Driven Decision Making & Testing Strategies

• Why marketers must test and iterate rather than rely on assumptions.
• The importance of product-market fit and refining strategy over time.
• A case study on how Rebecca’s team unseated an industry competitor by leveraging differentiation and UI/UX improvements.

3. The Impact of AI & Technology on Marketing

• How AI is changing the way businesses approach marketing.
• The importance of training AI tools for better results instead of relying on generic prompts.
• Why founders and marketers must integrate AI thoughtfully to maintain authenticity.

4. Scaling Marketing Efforts Without Losing Focus

• The risk of growing too fast and diluting brand messaging.
• How to avoid the mistake of jumping into too many marketing channels at once.
• Why companies should focus on a few, well-executed strategies before expanding.

5. Acquisition vs. Retention: The Key to Sustainable Growth

• Why retaining customers is four times more impactful than acquiring new ones.
• The dangers of short-term promotions and discount cycles.
• Strategies for building long-term customer loyalty and brand trust.

6. What Founders Need to Know Before Hiring a Marketer

• Why most startups don’t need a CMO as their first marketing hire.
• How to determine whether to hire in-house or work with an agency.
• The importance of setting clear goals and defining success before bringing in external help.

Key Takeaways for Marketers & Founders:

• For marketers: Differentiation in marketing takes effort—using AI, tools, and strategies effectively requires training and intentionality.
• For founders: Don’t chase trends blindly; focus on the right hires, the right tools, and a clear strategic direction to grow sustainably.

Connect with Rebecca Shaddix:

• LinkedIn

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Unlocking Brand Alignment with Brandon Coleman Jr.

Brandon Coleman Jr. joins the podcast to share his five decades of experience in brand alignment, marketing strategy, and business growth. As a renowned advisor, author, and entrepreneur, Brandon has helped countless businesses unlock their full potential by ensuring their brand perception matches reality. Through his Brand On movement, he empowers leaders to align their brand, maximize opportunities, and drive substantial success.

In this episode, you’ll discover:

The Power of Brand Alignment

• How a professor’s offhand comment led Brandon to a lifelong career in branding.
• Why brand alignment is the hidden power that many businesses overlook.
• The difference between brand tactics and true alignment—and why getting this right can be a game-changer.

Common Brand Pitfalls & How to Avoid Them

• The top seven potholes that derail brand alignment, from internal marketing teams to external vendors.
• The dangers of compromising your brand just to please others.
• How small but unintentional shifts in your business can cause brand morphing—and how to stop it.

The Role of AI & Modern Marketing Tactics

• The impact of AI on branding and why business owners must learn to use it without losing authenticity.
• How digital marketing agencies often fail their clients—and what to look for in a truly strategic partner.
• Why influencer marketing isn’t always the golden ticket brands think it is.

The Foundational Principles Every Business Should Follow

• Why ghost-walking your customer journey is one of the most critical exercises before launching or refining a business.
• How to align your business from the inside out, ensuring employees, vendors, and leadership all work towards the same brand vision.
• The importance of stepping back and seeing your brand from the customer’s perspective—before it’s too late.

Brandon’s Advice for Entrepreneurs & Business Leaders

• Don’t get lost in tactics—focus on alignment first.
• Walk your customer’s journey before you launch.
• If you’re not in full brand alignment, you’re leaving money and opportunity on the table.
• Surround yourself with the right experts—because not all marketers understand alignment.

Connect with Brandon & Learn More:

• Brandon Coleman Jr. Website
• Pre-Order the Book: Brand On: The Hidden Power of Brand Alignment order here
• Connect with Brandon on LinkedIn
• Follow Brandons Instagram

This episode is a must-listen for business owners, marketers, and anyone looking to build a brand that truly connects. Are you ready to get your brand aligned?

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