Afleveringen
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Featuring: Paolo Vidali, Hidden Gears
In episode 098 of Agency Bytes, I sit down with Paolo Vidale, CEO of Hidden Gears, for one of the most honest and raw conversations weâve ever had on this podcast. This isnât just about agency lifeâitâs about the real, unfiltered struggles that come with being an entrepreneur and a human being.
Paolo opens up about one of the hardest challenges he and his wife facedâher unexpected cancer diagnosis at just 35 years old. We talk about what happens when life blindsides you, when everything youâve built suddenly takes a backseat to survival, and how you find the strength to keep going. Paolo shares what it was like to step up as a caregiver, run a business solo, navigate financial pressures, and manage his own mental healthâall while figuring out how to show up for his wife, his team, and himself.
We also get into:
⢠The emotional weight of entrepreneurshipâand why so many agency owners feel like they have to have it all together, even when their world is falling apart.
⢠The unexpected kindness that came from clients and colleagues when he chose to be vulnerable about his situation.
⢠The hardest leadership lessons he learned while scaling back, delegating, and ultimately growing the agency in a healthier, more sustainable way.
⢠How this experience completely reframed his approach to work, life, and successâfrom prioritizing health and setting boundaries to embracing a âYOLOâ mentality when it comes to experiencing life fully.
This conversation isnât just about overcoming setbacksâitâs about redefining what truly matters. If youâve ever struggled with balancing business and personal challenges, if youâve ever felt like you had to carry everything alone, or if you need a reminder that itâs okay to step back, ask for help, and build a business that supports your life (not the other way around)âthis episode is for you.
Paoloâs story is deeply personal, incredibly inspiring, and a powerful testament to resilience, leadership, and love. Give it a listenâyou wonât regret it.
Key Bytes
⢠Life as an entrepreneur is filled with challenges.⢠Vulnerability is crucial in business settings.⢠Having a supportive partner can enhance business success.⢠Navigating a health crisis requires clear communication.⢠Delegation is essential for effective leadership.⢠Prioritizing health can lead to better business outcomes.⢠Traveling can provide a much-needed reset from work.⢠Work-life balance is vital for a healthy team culture.⢠It's important to redefine success beyond financial metrics.⢠Health crises can shift priorities and perspectives on life.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Paolo Vidale and Hidden Gears07:30 Navigating Personal and Professional Challenges15:41 Coping with a Life-Altering Diagnosis22:56 Leadership Lessons from Adversity30:48 Reframing Life Priorities and Business Goals39:51 Building a Healthy Work Culture
Paolo Vidali is the CEO and co-owner of Hidden Gears, a distributed web design, development, and marketing agency specializing in e-commerce solutions for growing businesses across the US, with offices in New York and Honolulu. With over 17 years of experience in web development and digital marketing, he focuses on Shopify Plus development, Pay-per-click (PPC) management, SEO, and conversion optimization. A veteran digital strategist and solutions architect, Paolo has a diverse background in managing sustainability initiatives, digital marketing strategy, and omnichannel retail.
Contact Paolo on their website, Instagram, LinkedIn, or on X.
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Featuring: Matthew Fox
In episode 097 of Agency Bytes, I had the pleasure of speaking with Matthew Fox, a project leader, trainer, and operations consultant who specializes in conscious leadership and helping teams work better together.
Matthew opened up about his personal journey with imposter syndrome and how it led him to dive deep into self-development. Over the years, heâs explored frameworks like The 15 Commitments of Conscious Leadership and the Drama Triangle, which have shaped how he approaches leadership and team dynamics.
One of the biggest takeaways from our conversation? Project managers often spot cultural issues before leadership does. If your projects are struggling, itâs probably not just an execution problemâitâs a reflection of your agencyâs culture.
We also dove into the importance of self-care for agency ownersâsomething too many of us neglect. Matthew shared how shifting from reactive, fear-based leadership to solution-focused, conscious leadership can improve team morale, retention, and overall agency success.
Key Bytes
⢠Conscious leadership is essential for agency success.⢠Self-discovery can lead to better team dynamics.⢠Project managers are key to understanding agency culture.⢠The drama triangle can hinder project success.⢠Cultural challenges often stem from leadership styles.⢠Self-care is crucial for effective leadership.⢠Time management can improve agency operations.⢠Creativity flourishes in a supportive environment.⢠An open mindset leads to better problem-solving.⢠Personal growth impacts professional relationships.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Conscious Leadership01:25 The Journey of Self-Discovery03:27 Integrating Conscious Leadership in Agencies06:16 Understanding the Drama Triangle10:12 Cultural Challenges in Agency Leadership11:34 The Shift from Command and Control16:56 The Role of Self-Care in Leadership20:50 Time Management and Agency Culture24:03 Creativity Under Pressure26:33 The Importance of an Open Mindset27:31 Final Thoughts and Personal Reflections
Matthew Fox is a project leader, trainer, and operations consultant with a strong background in public speaking and critique, skilled at delivering constructive feedback that inspires action and change. A true people person with the ability to gain consensus among multiple stakeholders to drive projects to completion and achieve company objectives.
His professional background includes various positions in technology implementation, project management, facilitation, and end-user training. And has led and mentored cross-functional teams.
Matthew loves to give back. He is actively involved in several volunteer organizations, including the Digital Project Manager and the Evolutionary Power Institute.
Contact Matthew on LinkedIn.
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Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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Featuring: Jason Kramer, Cultivize
In episode 096 of Agency Bytes, I had the pleasure of speaking with Jason Kramer, founder and CEO of Cultivize, about how to improve the sales process through better lead nurturing and CRM strategies. We covered topics like identifying and converting leads, picking the right CRM tools, and the mindset shifts that make CRM usage more effective. Jason shared some great insights on evaluating past marketing efforts, making sense of key metrics, and positioning agencies for success. He also introduced some exciting tools and resources from Cultivize, including a Google Sheets-based CRM system called Profit Path, which helps businesses track leads and marketing expenses more effectively.
Key Bytes
⢠Cultivize focuses on helping businesses identify, nurture, and convert leads.⢠Proper CRM implementation requires ongoing adjustments and strategy.⢠Many companies jump into technology without understanding their needs.⢠Evaluating past marketing efforts is crucial for future success.⢠Metrics should inform decisions, not just provide data.⢠Agencies often struggle with self-marketing due to proximity to their own business.⢠Positioning and niche marketing are essential for agency success.⢠New tools like Profit Path can simplify lead tracking and marketing costs.⢠Behavioral changes are necessary for effective CRM usage.⢠Asking for help can accelerate business growth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Cultivize and Sales Optimization05:55 Choosing the Right CRM Tools11:58 Evaluating Past Marketing Efforts17:54 Marketing for Agencies: The Importance of Positioning24:04 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts
Jason Kramer is the founder and CEO of Cultivize, a consulting firm dedicated to improving lead nurturing and CRM implementation. With more than two decades of experience, Jason has collaborated with both global and local brands to help align marketing and sales efforts. His expertise lies in optimizing sales processes, evaluating underperforming marketing campaigns, and fostering better integration between marketing and sales teams.
Contact Jason on his website and use code âAgency Bytesâ to save $50 on Profit Path.
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Featuring: Chip Griffin, SAGA
In episode 095 of Agency Bytes, Iâm joined by Chip Griffin, founder of the Small Agency Growth Alliance (SAGA). With over 30 years of experience as an agency owner and entrepreneur, Chip shares how small PR, marketing, and creative agency owners can build businesses they truly love.
We dig into some of agency owners' pitfalls, including why chasing âcopycat goalsâ and outdated benchmarks often leads to burnout, and why focusing on profit and personal satisfaction is key. Chip also breaks down his âfloor-to-ceilingâ pricing model, the importance of time tracking, and how finding focus (a.k.a. niching) can make your agency more efficient and profitable. Plus, we discuss how owners can step back from the grind and take control of their day-to-day.
If youâre ready to rethink your approach to running your agency, this episode is packed with actionable tips to help you grow sustainably and love what you do. Tune in now!
Key Bytes
⢠Commit to building a business you want to own.⢠Define personal goals to shape your agency.⢠Focus on profit, not just revenue or headcount.⢠Time tracking is essential for understanding costs.⢠Pricing should be based on project budgets and value.⢠Finding focus helps improve efficiency and results.⢠Agency owners often work too many hours on the wrong tasks.⢠Control your day to enhance satisfaction.⢠Selling an agency is often not a life-changing event.⢠Life is too short to be miserable in your work.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Agency Growth06:36 The Importance of Time Tracking12:51 Pricing Strategies for Agencies19:23 Common Pain Points for Agency Owners25:19 Rapid Fire Questions and Final Thoughts
As the founder of the Small Agency Growth Alliance (SAGA), Chip Griffin helps small PR and marketing agency owners build businesses that they want to own. He works with them to grow profits, eliminate overwork, and improve their overall satisfaction.
As an experienced entrepreneur and agency owner himself, Chip shares the wisdom of his successes and the lessons from his failures. He understands the challenges and opportunities that face agency owners because he sat in the same chair and faced similar decisions.
Chip joined his first agency 30 years ago as a Junior Account Executive and has had an appreciation for the highs and lows these firms have experienced ever since.
Contact Chip on his website or on LinkedIn.
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Featuring: Chris DuBois, Dynamic Agency OS
In episode 094 of Agency Bytes, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Chris Dubois, a seasoned marketing expert and non-founder CEO. Chris shares his fascinating journey from being an infantry officer to leading a successful agency that not only got recognized as an Inc 5000 honoree but also earned the prestigious Two Comma Club award. During our conversation, Chris dives deep into the Dynamic Agency OS, his framework for helping agencies achieve alignment and growth. Key areas of focus from the podcast include:
⢠Transformational Leadership: How Chris advanced from head of operations to CEO and his insights on effective leadership.
⢠Strategic Specialization: The importance of niching based on problem-solving and creating differentiated offers.
⢠Team Optimization: Evaluating and leveraging team strengths to maintain high standards and improve agency culture.
⢠Quarterly Planning: The benefits of conducting quarterly strategy sessions to stay aligned with client goals and maintain focus.
⢠Practical Tools: Chris's take on invaluable tools like the AI-powered calendar tool, Motion, and its impact on productivity.
Tune in to explore valuable strategies and actionable insights that can help marketing agency owners thrive and grow their businesses.
Key Bytes
⢠Chris DuBois transitioned from military service to agency leadership.⢠The Dynamic Agency OS framework focuses on operators, offers, and operations.⢠Agencies often struggle with client requests outside their expertise.⢠Leadership in agencies is about maintaining a strong culture and standard.⢠Hiring the right people is crucial for delivering quality work.⢠Understanding client needs requires digging deeper into their problems.⢠Quarterly strategies help keep clients focused and accountable.⢠Soft skills can be broken down into quantifiable hard skills for training.⢠Delegation is key for agency owners to focus on growth.⢠Networking with other experts can provide valuable insights and solutions.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Agency Bites and Chris DuBois06:32 The Dynamic Agency OS: A Framework for Success12:51 Navigating Client Requests and Agency Expertise23:39 Personal Insights and Recommendations from Chris DuBois
Chris DuBois helps marketing agencies build a solid go-to-market foundation while avoiding common roadblocks by aligning business design with personal goals through the Dynamic Agency OS. A former head of operations and non-founder CEO at an agency, he is an INC 5000 honoree and 2 Comma Club awardee.
Contact Chris on his website or on LinkedIn.
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Featuring: Jonathan Stark, Ditcherville
In Episode 093 of Agency Bytes, I sat down with Jonathan Stark â a former software developer turned pricing consultant â to dig into a topic that trips up so many agencies: hourly billing vs. value-based pricing.
Jonathan shared how he made the shift from trading time for money to focusing on the value his work delivers. What started as a few talks with agencies grew into a full-blown movement â writing books, delivering content, and building a thriving community of creative professionals ditching the hourly model.
We talked about why hourly billing holds agencies back, the importance of deeply understanding client needs, and how to craft pricing options that reflect the true value you provide. Jonathanâs insights on uncovering client motivations and taking a more strategic approach to pricing will help you build stronger client relationships and increase profitability.
If youâre tired of being stuck in the âbillable hourâ mindset, this episode is packed with actionable advice you wonât want to miss.
Key Bytes
⢠Hourly billing limits income potential.⢠Understanding client outcomes is crucial for pricing.⢠Scope should be defined after understanding client needs.⢠Value-based pricing can lead to higher profits.⢠Creating multiple pricing options can attract clients.⢠Time tracking is unnecessary in a value-based model.⢠Client motivations should drive the sales conversation.⢠Different levels of engagement affect pricing strategies.⢠Value pricing enhances client relationships.⢠Being unique in your offering is essential for success.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ditching Hourly Billing06:01 Understanding Client Needs and Outcomes11:45 Creating Pricing Options for Clients17:47 Uncovering Client Motivations23:54 The Home Run of Value Pricing
Jonathan Stark is a former software developer who is on a mission to rid the world of hourly billing. He is the author of Hourly Billing Is Nuts, the host of Ditching Hourly, and writes a daily newsletter on pricing for independent professionals.
Connect with Jonathan and learn about ditching hourly on his website.
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Featuring: Armin Vit, Brand New
In Episode 092 of Agency Bytes, I had the absolute pleasure of interviewing Armin Vit, co-founder of Under Consideration and editor of the wildly popular blog Brand New. As someone whoâs followed Arminâs work for nearly two decades, this was a bucket-list conversation for me.
We dove into the early days of design blogging and how Brand New evolved from a passion project into a thriving subscription-based business. Armin shared why he and his partner Bryony chose to lean into events and community-building over running a traditional design agency â and how that shift has shaped their success.
We also got into some fun topics like logo trends, what makes a redesign impactful, and how design can spark conversation. But what really stood out were Arminâs insights for agency owners â from taking calculated risks to staying organized with something as simple (and powerful) as spreadsheets.
If youâre an agency owner or a design enthusiast, you wonât want to miss this episode. Arminâs perspective on balancing creativity, business, and community is inspiring and packed with practical takeaways.
Key Bytes
⢠The transition to a subscription model was driven by the pandemic.⢠In-house design is gaining recognition and importance in the industry.⢠The Brand New blog has evolved in writing style and audience engagement.⢠Airbnb's logo change is a prime example of design conviction.⢠Design trends often emerge simultaneously across the industry.⢠Community engagement through events is a key passion for Armin.⢠Calculated risks are essential for agency growth and survival.⢠Spreadsheets help organize thoughts and data effectively.⢠The design industry is shifting towards valuing in-house talent.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Armin Vit and Under Consideration08:10 Passion for Events and Community Engagement15:01 The Brand New Blog and Its Evolution20:59 Identifying Design Trends in Real Time30:01 Valuable Business Advice for Agency Owners
Born and raised in Mexico City, Armin Vit is a graphic designer and writer now living in Bloomington, IN. He is co-founder of UnderConsideration, a graphic design firm generating its own projects, initiatives, and content. He is the editor and primary writer of the popular blog Brand New. Along with his wife and business partner, Bryony Gomez-Palacio, he is the co-organizer and co-host of the Brand New Conference (established in 2010) as well as of First Round (established in 2018) and In-house In-focus In-person (launching in 2025). Cumulatively they have curated a selection of more than 450 individual speakers and hosted more than 12,000 attendees since 2010.
Contact Armin on any of his Instagram accounts: Personal, Brand New, In-House In-Focus, Brand New Conference, or on the Under Consideration website.
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Featuring: Brad Farris, Anchor Advisors
In episode 091 of Agency Bytes, I had the pleasure of chatting with Brad Farris from Anchor Advisors about one of the biggest challenges agency owners face â scaling their businesses. Together, we dig through some of the must-have habits that a CEO needs to find their version of success.
We dove into the mindset shifts that are crucial for growth, the tricky transition from being a consultant to stepping into a true coaching role, and why trust is absolutely essential when it comes to delegation.
Brad shared some incredible insights on how agency owners can break through that million-dollar revenue barrier, find real satisfaction in leadership, and avoid the endless cycle of overwork that so many of us fall into.
We also talked about building a healthy work culture and how shifting your perspective can make all the difference in solving problems.
And of course, we wrapped things up with some rapid-fire questions to get a few personal insights from Brad â always a fun way to end the conversation!
Itâs a great episode packed with value, and I canât wait for you to listen.
Key Bytes
⢠Success is driven less by what you do than who you decide to be.⢠The biggest hurdle to growth is often internal.⢠Transitioning from doing to orchestrating is crucial for agency growth.⢠Micromanaging can lead to decreased performance in teams.⢠Finding satisfaction in seeing others succeed is key.⢠Overworking does not equate to better results.⢠Taking breaks can simplify overwhelming problems.⢠A healthy work culture is essential for team morale.⢠Trusting your team is vital for effective delegation.⢠It's important to recognize that not everything is as critical as it seems.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Agency Growth Challenges03:02 Mindset Shift: From Consulting to Coaching05:50 Overcoming the Million-Dollar Barrier08:58 The Importance of Trust in Delegation12:07 Finding Satisfaction Beyond the Craft15:07 Breaking the Cycle of Overwork18:01 The Power of Perspective in Problem Solving20:58 Creating a Healthy Work Culture23:51 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts
Brad Harris from Anchor Advisors is known for helping agency and expert firm owners grow through the $1Mâ2M barrier to become thriving $3M â$5M agencies.
For over twenty years, Brad has worked alongside agency owners to help them sharpen their focus, raise their prices, and hire better people so that their firms can scale.
In his work with hundreds of agency owners, heâs learned that success is driven less by what you do than who you decide to be, and the biggest hurdle to your agencyâs growth is between your ears.
Contact Brad on his website, or take his leadership assessment.
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eaturing: Jon Tsourakis, Oyova
In episode 090 of Agency Bites, I'm thrilled to chat with Jon Tsourakis, the owner and president of Oyova, a dynamic national marketing and web development agency. Jon has an inspiring story about his journey into the agency world, and I can't wait for you to hear how Oyova has evolved over the years and the lessons Jon has learned along the way.
We dive into the challenges that agencies face in todayâs ever-changing market and discuss the critical role of niche marketing and how personalized service can help retain clients. Jon shares his valuable insights on adapting to market conditions and his exciting plans for future growth, including potential acquisitions.
To wrap things up, we have some fun with rapid-fire questions that reveal personal insights and practical business advice. Join us for what promises to be an engaging and informative conversation!
Key Bytes
⢠Jon's journey into the agency space began after leaving a family business.⢠The merger of Oyova in 2019 led to rapid growth initially.⢠The agency faced challenges due to economic downturns and client pullbacks.⢠Niche marketing is crucial for agency success in a competitive landscape.⢠Client retention is achieved through personalized, white glove service.⢠The agency offers a digital marketing suite and web development services.⢠Future growth strategies include focusing on specialization and potential acquisitions.⢠Maintaining a healthy billing rate is essential for agency profitability.⢠The agency space is evolving, and adaptation is key to survival.⢠It's important to push oneself beyond perceived limits to achieve success.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Agency Bites and Guest Background02:30 The Evolution of Oyova and Market Challenges06:53 Niche Marketing: The Key to Agency Success11:14 Client Retention and White Glove Service14:55 Service Offerings: Digital Marketing and Web Development21:02 Future Outlook: Adaptation and Growth Strategies27:38 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts
Jon Tsourakis is a seasoned leader, marketer and sales expert. Heâs the co-owner and President of Oyova, a national marketing and web development agency where he helps the firm identify and capitalize on new opportunities.
Contact Jon on LinkedIn or the Oyova website.
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Featuring: Dan Englander, Sales Schema
In episode 089 of Agency Bites, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Dan Englander, CEO of Sales Schema. We dove into the world of strategic sales planning for marketing agencies and unpacked some of the biggest challenges agency owners faceâthings like relying too much on referrals, struggling with time, and not having a clear idea of their target market.
Dan breaks down why building trust and leveraging connections is so critical for effective outreach, and we talk about where automation fits (and doesnât fit) into the sales process. He also explains why itâs so important to create a solid sales system before you start hiring salespeople, and how understanding sales cycles can help set better expectations.
We also touch on hiring the right salesperson and why the human element in sales canât be overlooked. And of course, we wrap up with some fun rapid-fire questions that give us a glimpse into Danâs personal and professional side.
If youâre an agency owner looking to make your sales process smoother, more human, and more effectiveâthis oneâs for you!
Key Bytes
⢠Many agencies rely too much on referrals for growth.⢠Lack of time and clarity are major stumbling blocks for agency owners.⢠Outbound sales should start as a clarity-building exercise.⢠Agencies should define their target markets and specialize.⢠Building trust is crucial in a competitive landscape.⢠Leveraging connections can enhance outreach effectiveness.⢠Automation in sales processes is essential but quality matters.⢠Most agency clients have owner-led sales teams.⢠It's important to build a sales system before hiring a salesperson.⢠Understanding sales cycles is key to setting expectations.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Agency Growth Strategies01:50 The Importance of Strategic Sales Planning04:41 Overcoming Common Agency Growth Challenges09:10 Building Trust in a Competitive Landscape12:52 Leveraging Connections for Effective Outreach15:24 The Role of Automation in Sales Processes18:46 Creating a Sales System Before Hiring21:55 Understanding Sales Cycles and Expectations26:51 The Human Element in Sales
Dan Englander is the CEO and Founder of Sales Schema, a fractional new business team for marketing agencies, and he hosts The Digital Agency Growth Podcast. Previously Dan was the first employee head of new business at IdeaRocket, and before that, Account Coordinator at DXagency. He's also the author of Relationship Sales at Scale: How to Find Your Virtual Tribe and Reliably Grow Your Professional Service Business, Mastering Account Management and The B2B Sales Blueprint. In his spare time, he enjoys developing new aches and pains via Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and spending time with his wife Sarah and their son Adrian in NYC.
Contact Dan on his company website, LinkedIn, Facebook, or personal LinkedIn.
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Featuring: Mario Lanzarotti, Zen-Preneurs
In this episode of Agency Bites, I sat down with Mario Lanzarotti, a business strategist who transformed his entrepreneurial journey through mindfulness and personal growth to focus on joy and making an impact. Mario shared his powerful story of starting an e-commerce business in New York, experiencing a pivotal panic attack that led him to meditation, and ultimately discovering the importance of emotional processing and redefining success. Through practices like Transcendental Meditation and plant medicine ceremonies, Mario developed his Zenpreneur method, which emphasizes that who you are being is more important than what you are doing. We dove deep into how entrepreneurs can break free from the hustle culture, process underlying emotional barriers, and create a more intentional, fulfilling business path. Mario's journey is a testament to the power of choice, inner work, and understanding that true success goes far beyond financial metrics.
Key Takeaways
⢠Mario's journey began in New York City with an e-commerce brand.⢠Entrepreneurship is often perceived as a path to freedom.⢠Stress can lead to a realization that something is off in life.⢠Meditation provided Mario with a tool to regain control.⢠Success is not just about financial gain but also personal happiness.⢠The Landmark Forum helped Mario understand the power of choice.⢠Agency owners often feel overwhelmed by information overload.⢠Emotional processing is crucial for personal and professional growth.⢠Redefining success can lead to a more fulfilling life.⢠Who you are being is more important than what you are doing.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Zenpreneurship01:00 Mario's Entrepreneurial Journey04:31 The Turning Point: From Stress to Meditation10:30 Discovering the Power of Choice15:05 The Shift from Hustle to Zen20:04 Emotional Processing and Personal Growth25:13 Redefining Success Beyond Money30:05 The Matrix of Entrepreneurship32:07 Rapid Fire Questions and Closing Thoughts
Mario Lanzarotti is a pioneer in transforming the way agency owners scale their businesses, combining high-performance strategies with inner peace and sustainable success. After successfully exiting his first company, Awl & Sundry, in 2019, Mario embarked on a global journey that led to the creation of the Zenpreneur methodâan innovative approach that empowers entrepreneurs to achieve 7-figure success without sacrificing their well-being.
Today, Mario is leading a movement that redefines entrepreneurial success by integrating wealth creation with self-mastery and mindful leadership. He specializes in guiding agency owners from overwhelmed solopreneurs to confident CEOs who build scalable businesses while maintaining freedom, control, and a lasting impact.
With over 1,000 business owners coached, Mario has left an indelible mark on the entrepreneurial community. His TEDx talk, which has amassed over 2 million organic views, underscores his groundbreaking methods for accelerating business growth while fostering a balanced, fulfilling lifestyle.
Marioâs mission is to help agency owners break free from the grind culture, scale with purpose, and create businesses that not only thrive financially but also contribute positively to their lives and the world around them.
Contact Mario on his website or on LinkedIn.
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Featuring: Peter Kang, Barrel Holdings
In Episode 087 of Agency Bytes, I had an inspiring conversation with Peter Kang, co-founder and chairman of Barrel Holdings. Peter shared his journey of building Barrel, a standout eCommerce agency specializing in Shopify, and how his vision evolved into creating multiple specialized agencies under the Barrel Holdings umbrella.
We dove into the challenges and rewards of growing an agency, the strategic decisions that shaped his path, and what itâs like to step back from daily operations to focus on the bigger picture. Peter is passionate about investing in the right people and systems to build an ecosystem of agency services that truly thrives and writes about it weekly in his newsletter.
He also opened up about the importance of transparency in communication, their bold Omakase experiment in funnel building, and launching *Agency Habits*, a resource-packed platform for agency operators. Throughout our chat, Peter emphasized the power of relationships in business and the fulfillment that comes from pursuing work youâre truly passionate about.
This episode is packed with actionable insights and inspirationâdonât miss it!
Key Takeaways
⢠Peter Kang co-founded Barrel in 2006 with a focus on digital transformation.⢠The agency evolved to specialize in e-commerce, particularly Shopify.⢠Barrel Holdings was created to manage multiple agencies under one umbrella.⢠Transparency in communication has been a core value for Peter and his team.⢠The Omakase experiment allowed clients to receive branding for free, building a portfolio.⢠Separate agencies allow for tailored staffing and focused strategies.⢠Agency Habits aims to share resources and insights among agency operators.⢠Building relationships is crucial for long-term success in business.⢠The importance of passion-driven work over purely strategic planning.⢠Peter emphasizes the need for a succession plan in agency leadership.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Agency Bites and Peter Kang05:10 Focusing on E-commerce and Shopify10:16 The Strategy Behind Separate Agencies14:35 The Importance of Transparency in Communication16:20 The Omakase Experiment: A Bold Approach23:01 Building a Diverse Agency Portfolio24:56 Launching Agency Habits: A New Venture28:41 Rapid Fire Questions and Personal Insights
Peter Kang is co-founder and Chairman of Barrel Holdings, a portfolio of digital agency businesses that includes Barrel, a leading Shopify agency, and BX Studio, a leading Webflow agency. Peter enjoys working closely with agency leaders both in and outside of Barrel Holdings, being a sounding board and sharing lessons learned from years of operating agency businesses.
Contact Peter at Barrel Holdings, his personal website, or on Agency Habits.
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Featuring: Christian Banach
In Episode 086 of *Agency Bytes*, I sit down with Christian Banach, a business development expert with a fascinating backstoryâfrom concert promotions to helping agencies land big-ticket clients. Christianâs journey is packed with lessons for anyone looking to level up their business development game.
We dive into the power of relationship marketing, the magic of positioning and specialization, and how agencies can stand out in a crowded marketplace. Christian shares actionable strategies for building and nurturing an email list and why thought leadership (like newsletters!) is key to staying top of mind with prospects.
We also chat about creating consistent, meaningful content and using LinkedIn to boost visibility and credibility. If youâre wondering how to turn casual readers into real connections, this episode is a goldmine.
Itâs a must-listen for agency owners ready to take their business development to the next level!
Key Takeaways
⢠Asking like an auctioneer involves maximizing potential asks.⢠Rejection should be seen as a sign of success, not failure.⢠Design your asks based on what you truly want, not what you think you can get.⢠Understanding the perceived value is crucial in negotiations.⢠The offer inside the ask should benefit both parties involved.⢠Mindset plays a significant role in how we approach asking for what we want.⢠It's important to communicate your dreams to those around you.⢠Asking for more can lead to greater outcomes than anticipated.⢠The process of auctioneering provides valuable insights into effective communication.⢠Honesty and generosity should guide your asks, not manipulation.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Asking Like an Auctioneer05:16 The Connection Between Asking and Auctioneering10:28 Mindset: Embracing Rejection15:30 Designing Your Ask20:57 The Offer Inside the Ask27:03 Final Thoughts and Rapid Fire Questions
Christian Banach is a seasoned business development expert who began his entrepreneurial journey in high school by running a successful concert promotions business. He's worked with big names like Lady Gaga and Pitbull and led marketing activations for brands like Disney and Toyota. After navigating the challenges of the 2008 recession, Christian pivoted to business development, helping agencies generate millions in revenue with clients like Kohl's and Constellation Brands. Now, he's on a mission to help agencies and consultancies land 6 and 7-figure opportunities predictably. Welcome to the show, Christian!
Contact Christian on his website or on LinkedIn.
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Featuring: Dia Bondi
In Episode 085 of Agency Bytes, I had the privilege of sitting down with Dia Bondi, a communications expert and author of Ask Like an Auctioneer. Dia shares her fascinating journey from the world of auctioneering to becoming a sought-after communication coach.
We dive deep into the art of asking effectively in high-stakes situations, exploring how to embrace rejection, craft impactful asks, and understand the value behind what you're offering. Dia introduces her powerful framework for building and delivering asks with confidence and clarity.
This episode is packed with insights on training your mindset to recognize what you truly want, articulate it boldly, and go after it fearlessly. Dia inspires us to make our dreams known and actively chase our goals with intention and determination.
If youâve ever struggled with asking for what you deserve, this conversation is one you donât want to miss!
Key Takeaways
⢠Asking like an auctioneer involves maximizing potential asks.⢠Rejection should be seen as a sign of success, not failure.⢠Design your asks based on what you truly want, not what you think you can get.⢠Understanding the perceived value is crucial in negotiations.⢠The offer inside the ask should benefit both parties involved.⢠Mindset plays a significant role in how we approach asking for what we want.⢠It's important to communicate your dreams to those around you.⢠Asking for more can lead to greater outcomes than anticipated.⢠The process of auctioneering provides valuable insights into effective communication.⢠Honesty and generosity should guide your asks, not manipulation.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Asking Like an Auctioneer05:16 The Connection Between Asking and Auctioneering10:28 Mindset: Embracing Rejection15:30 Designing Your Ask20:57 The Offer Inside the Ask27:03 Final Thoughts and Rapid Fire Questions
Dia Bondi is a Communications Catalyst, Speaker, and Author of Ask Like an Auctioneer: How to Ask for More and Get It. She coaches VC-backed founders, executives, and ambitious professionals to speak powerfully when the stakes are high. She helped Rio de Janeiro win the right to host the 2016 Summer Olympics and has helped countless leaders secure hundreds of millions in decisions and resources. A hobbyist fundraising auctioneer, Diaâs TEDx Talk was selected as a TED Editorsâ Pick, showcasing how to make the kinds of asks that can change everything.
Learn more about Dia and her services on her website.
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Featuring: Jacquelyn Laufer & David Yassky, Driver Digital
In this episode of Agency Bites, I had the pleasure of sitting down with David Yasky and Jacqueline Laufer, the dynamic duo behind Driver Digital. Let me tell you, their story of building a thriving agency in the fashion and e-commerce space is nothing short of inspiring!
We dove deep into the secret sauce of their partnership, and it's all about knowing your strengths and playing to them. David and Jacqueline shared some golden nuggets on how they've defined their roles and fostered a culture that keeps their team excited to come to work every day. They've cracked the code on maintaining joy in the workplace!
We also got into the nitty-gritty of building those long-lasting client relationships that are the lifeblood of any agency. And if you're looking to level up your leadership game, you won't want to miss their thoughts on effective leadership and the power of mentorship.
If you're ready for a dose of inspiration, practical wisdom, and maybe a laugh or two, tune in to this episode. Trust me, you won't regret it!
Key Takeaways
⢠Both David and Jacqueline ran their own agencies before partnering.⢠Driver Digital specializes in fashion, beauty, and e-commerce.⢠Defining roles in a partnership is crucial for efficiency.⢠Fostering a positive culture is essential for team morale.⢠Maintaining joy in the workplace enhances productivity.⢠Building lasting relationships with clients leads to success.⢠Effective leadership involves immediate feedback and open communication.⢠Mentorship plays a vital role in personal and professional growth.⢠Success is attributed to strong relationships and quality work.⢠Saying no to projects that aren't a good fit is empowering.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Driver Digital01:01 The Journey to Partnership02:58 Niche Focus in Fashion and E-commerce06:16 Defining Roles in the Agency10:26 Fostering a Positive Agency Culture15:41 Maintaining Joy in the Workplace19:31 Building Lasting Client Relationships22:01 Leadership Styles and Team Management25:04 The Importance of Mentorship29:03 Success Through Relationships33:02 Rapid Fire Questions and Key Takeaways
David Yassky is a creative leader and brand developer with over eighteen years of dynamic experience combining the worlds of editorial, fashion, retail and ecommerce. His editorial roots, entrepreneurial acumen, and strong industry relationships make him a unique asset that artfully straddles the creative and business worlds. David began his career as a Fashion Editor at Womenâs Wear Daily and W Magazine before going on to consult for a variety of iconic brands including Tory Burch, Anthropologie, and Gap. David was the co-founder and President of The Aisle New York, a progressive digital startup in the bridal ecommerce space, and later he served as Fashion and Editorial Director of the large American ecommerce site, IDEELI. He is the founder and creative director of Driver Creative & Driver Digital â helping transform iconic brands including Anne Klein, Bergdorf Goodman, and Joseph Abboud.
Jacquelyn Laufer, is an E-Commerce, Digital Marketing, Solutions, and Project Management consultant with over 14 years of experience specializing in the luxury fashion, beauty, and travel industries. Having launched Henri Bendelâs first ecommerce website, Bond No. 9âs second, and built online experiences with Estee Lauder Companies, Coty, Edit New York and Blissworld, Jacquelyn is known for helping companies scale their business. Most notably, Jacquelyn founded e-commerce consulting and project management firm Rebuild Girl, which led the re-platforms for brands such as LâObjet, Anne Klein, Joseph Abboud, Creed Boutique, Hanky Panky, and more. Jacquelyn enjoys building consensus, effectively motivating and helping teams hit their mark, defining digital solutions and integrations to help brands grow, and most importantly hanging out with her husband and rescue dog.
Contact Jacquelyn and David on their website, Instagram, or LinkedIn.
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Featuring: Jody Sutter, The Sutter Company
In Episode 083, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jody Sutter, owner of Sutter Company, about her journey in business development and our shared mission of supporting small marketing agencies with their sales and marketing efforts. Jody introduces her Build Win Scale Systemâa practical, step-by-step approach to help agencies identify their ideal clients, improve messaging, and strengthen their teams for business growth.
Throughout our conversation, Jody shares why it's crucial for agencies to focus on sales and marketing fundamentals, like pinpointing the right clients and solving their unique challenges. We also explore how to tackle seasonality in the agency world and the power of prioritizing one thing at a time for sustainable success. Donât miss this insightful episode!
Key Takeaways
⢠Focus on the basics of sales and marketing, such as identifying your ideal client and solving their problems.⢠Prioritize and focus on one thing at a time to make progress.⢠Use the dips in business to work on strategic projects and improve your agency.⢠Consider integrating AI tools to streamline processes and improve efficiency.⢠Reflect on the value you provide to your clients and turn it into a compelling message.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background06:32 The BuildWin Scale System12:58 Challenges and Pitfalls in Agency Business Development17:41 Managing Seasonality in the Agency Business20:12 Prioritization and Focus25:15 Integrating AI in Agency Operations31:05 Turning Value into a Compelling Message32:40 Closing Remarks
Jody is the owner of The Sutter Company, a business development coaching and advisory firm, and the inventor of the BUILD WIN SCALETM system, a step-by-step process designed to help leaders of small marketing agencies identify and activate their natural talents for sales and marketing, leading to a sustainable approach to winning new business.
Contact Jody on her website.
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Featuring: Chris Martinez, Bloom Partners
In episode 082, I sit down with Chris Martinez, CEO and founder of Bloom Partners, who shares his journey from building a successful marketing agency to transitioning into management consulting. Chris dives into the importance of data-driven strategies and setting clear KPIs for each department, emphasizing how these metrics fuel growth. We discuss the impact of AI on the industry, and Chris encourages agency owners to embrace the new possibilities it brings. He also talks about the critical role of personal fulfillment in business successâhow finding joy in all areas of life directly boosts both individual and company performance.
Key Takeaways
⢠Set clear KPIs for each department in your agency and track them using simple tools like Google Sheets.⢠Embrace AI and leverage its capabilities to improve efficiency and productivity in your agency.⢠Focus on personal fulfillment in physical health, mental health, relationships, and business to achieve overall success.⢠The business is a reflection of you, so ensure that other areas of your life are in balance for optimal performance.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background03:08 Building a Marketing Agency and Transitioning to Management Consulting05:54 Data-Driven Strategies and Clear KPIs09:00 Embracing AI in the Agency Industry12:56 The Importance of Personal Fulfillment in Business
Chris Martinez, CEO and Founder of BLOOMAgency.io, has turned his passion for helping underdogs into a thriving business, growing his company from zero to millions in revenue. Recognized with a 2021 Stevie Award for Minority-Owned Business of the Year, Chris also hosts the popular podcast *Operation Agency Freedom*. He is the author of four books, including the Amazon Bestseller *Itâs Not JUST A Website*, and his latest release, *Facts Not Feelings*, offers insights on scaling a marketing agency with data-driven strategies.
Contact Chris on his website, on Instagram, or learn about Agency Freedom Live.
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Featuring: David C. Baker, Punctuation
In episode 081, I sit down with David C. Baker, a renowned consultant, author, and speaker in the advertising agency world. We explore David's journey from grad school to founding his consultancy, Punctuation, and later bringing his son into the business. David shares key traits that drive successful agenciesâcourage, discipline, strategic positioning, and effective team management. We discuss business resets, lead generation, and the science behind agency positioning, along with the advantages of running an agency with future acquisition in mind. Beyond business, David talks about his personal passions like motorcycling, woodworking, and photography. Tune in for valuable insights into managing and scaling a creative agency.
Key Takeaways
⢠Courage and discipline are key traits for agency leaders⢠Positioning is crucial for agency success and requires testing and refinement⢠Running an agency as if you're going to sell it can lead to better overall performance⢠Woodworking, motorcycle racing, and photography are David's hobbies⢠Stop things that no longer serve you and simplify your life
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background03:07 The Importance of Courage and Discipline in Agency Leadership06:29 The Process of Positioning and Testing11:17 Keys to Making an Agency Attractive for Sale15:16 David's Hobbies: Woodworking, Motorcycle Racing, and Photography18:20 Advice for Agency Owners: Stop and Simplify
David C. Baker is an author, speaker, and advisor to entrepreneurial creatives worldwide. He has written 6 books, advised 1,000+ firms, and keynoted conferences in 30+ countries. His work has been discussed in the Wall Street Journal, Fast Company, Forbes, USA Today, BusinessWeek, CBS News, Newsweek, AdWeek, and Inc. Magazine. He lives in Nashville, TN. His two most recent books are at http://www.expertise.is and https://www.tradecraft.is His work has also been featured in the NY Times, where he was recently referred to as âthe expertâs expertâ. He co-hosts the most listened-to podcast in the creative services field (2Bobs).
Contact David on his website, or LinkedIn, or learn about his MYOB Conference.
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Featuring: Kevin Rapp, Ultra Friends
In episode 080, I had a great conversation with Kevin Rapp, co-founder and chief creative officer of Ultra Friends. We dive into the exploitation of creatives and the crucial role of valuing creativity in business. Kevin shares his journey from working in agencies and studios to going in-house at a fast-growing startup, where he learned to focus not just on the craft, but on delivering real value to the business.
We discuss why creatives should stop pitching for free and start advocating for the true worth of their work. Kevinâs key takeaway? Understand and confidently articulate the immense value that creativity brings to the table.
This episode is a must-listen for any creative professional looking to elevate their impact and take control of their worth in the business world!
Key Takeaways
⢠Creatives need to shift their focus from the craft alone to delivering value to the business.⢠Pitching for free devalues creativity and sets an unhealthy dynamic in client relationships.⢠Understanding and articulating the true value of creativity is crucial for success.⢠Advocating for fair compensation and valuing creativity leads to better career opportunities and financial growth.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background03:30 Transitioning from Agency to In-House Startup06:09 Shifting the Focus to Value and Business Impact09:55 Starting Ultra Friends and Optimizing Creative Content15:05 The Importance of Not Pitching for Free20:59 The Devaluation of Creativity and Self-Worth26:00 Setting the Tone and Advocating for Fair Compensation31:53 Understanding and Articulating the True Value of Creativity
Kevin is the co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of the creative agency Ultra Friends. He's an accomplished creative leader with almost two decades of experience in the field. And he's built a mild reputation for himself by shouting into the internet void on Linkedin.
Contact Kevin on his website.
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Featuring: Nicole Ayres, Jumpsuit
In episode 079, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nicole Ayres, founder of Jumpsuit and creator of Jumpboards. After leaving the big agency world to freelance, Nicole built her own thriving agencyâJumpsuitâwith zero paid ads and zero employees. She has since developed Jumpboards, a revolutionary end-to-end solution for agencies that streamlines everything from discovery calls to project handoff.
Nicole shares how Jumpboards empowers freelancers to confidently pitch larger projects and helps agencies operationalize business development, scoping, budgeting, and resource allocation. At the heart of her success? A strong belief in her team and a culture of collaboration and empowerment.
This episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to scale their agency or improve operational efficiency. Donât miss out on Nicole's inspiring story and the game-changing strategies sheâs developed!
Key Takeaways
⢠Building an agency without paid ads or employees is possible by leveraging a network of trusted freelancers.⢠Jumpboards is a technology that streamlines the agency process and allows freelancers to pitch larger projects.⢠Trust in your team is crucial for agency success.⢠Creating a culture of collaboration and empowerment leads to a more fulfilling and productive work environment.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Background08:21 Transitioning from Freelancer to Agency Owner19:19 Introducing Jumpboards27:31 The Future of Agencies and Freelancing32:01 Personal Interests and Advice
Nicole Ayres left the big agency, freelanced (500k first year, built an agency with zero paid ads and zero employees that runs itself, now building technology to democratize it all.
Contact Nicole at Jumpsuit Agency or Jauntboards.
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