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In this episode of the Lead With Your Brand! podcast, Jayzen Patria continues his five-step framework by unpacking Step 3: Refining Who You Want to Be and Supersizing Your Superpowers. Jayzen challenges listeners to move beyond generic descriptors and intentionally elevate their personal brand so it stands out, feels differentiated, and creates real impact. The episode then transitions into a powerful conversation with Cliff Holtz, President and CEO of the American Red Cross, exploring leadership, trust, authenticity, and what it means to steward one of the most trusted brands in the world. Supersizing Your Superpowers. Supersizing your brand means turning up the volume on what already makes you strong, unique, and effective. Using real-world examples from brands like the Los Angeles LGBT Center, Oxygen Network, and Bravo, Jayzen shows how powerful brands clearly define not only what they are, but also what they are not, creating consistency, trust, and memorability. Tune in to hear how Jayzen SuperSized his own descriptors from being described as a “good presenter” to clearly owning his identity as a storyteller, showman, and super-connector…a combination that is unmistakably his. Key Takeaways: Most people stop at generic traits; SuperPremium brands SuperSize what makes them differentClustering similar traits helps uncover your true brand superpowersStrong brands define clear boundaries, including how they never want to show upSuperSizing isn’t about changing who you are; it’s about calibrating how you show up, like a DJ mixing the right tracks for the momentJayzen sits down with Cliff Holtz for his first-ever podcast appearance, offering an intimate look at leadership behind one of America’s most trusted organizations. Cliff reflects on his journey from COO to CEO, the influence of legendary leader Gail McGovern, and the lessons learned about earning trust, choosing words carefully, and leading with humanity. He shares how authenticity doesn’t mean showing up the same way in every moment, but rather understanding when to shift gears while staying true to your values. Guest Bio Cliff Holtz President & Chief Executive Officer American Red Cross Cliff Holtz serves as the president and chief executive officer of the American Red Cross, the nation’s largest provider of lifesaving blood products and leading emergency response organization. Holtz joined the Red Cross in 2011 and assumed his role as president and CEO on July 1, 2024, following the retirement of president and CEO Gail McGovern.   Prior to his current role, Holtz held the position of chief operating officer for seven years where he oversaw the execution of all mission delivery and operations comprising Biomedical Services, Disaster Services, International Services, Training Services and Service to the Armed Forces. During his tenure as COO, Holtz worked closely with his predecessor, Gail McGovern, in leading the Red Cross to achieve financial stability while also growing critical investments in mission, people and infrastructure.  As part of his vision for the Red Cross, Holtz is building on the organization’s strong foundation to adapt to the growing frequency and intensity of disasters and develop sustainability efforts with a focus on underserved communities across all mission delivery. His commitment to humanitarian efforts and operational excellence has been instrumental in the organization’s service to millions of people in need.  Before joining the Red Cross in 2011, Holtz held executive leadership positions at for-profit companies including Pelco (a Division of Schneider Electric), Nortel Networks Corp, Deloitte Consulting LLP, Qwest Communications and Gateway Corporation. He also spent 16 years at AT&T working in sales, marketing, new business development, operations and engineering, and human resources. His tenure culminated with his role as the president of Metro Markets, a $4.5 billion unit.  Holtz earned a Bachelor of Science from the State University of New York at Albany and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Chicago. He has served on the boards of LHC Group (recently sold to United Health Care), the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce and the National Jewish Hospital. Links  To book Jayzen for a speaking engagement or workshop, visit Jayzenpatria.com

In this episode, Jayzen Patria continues his five-step Lead With Your Brand framework, focusing on Step #2: Knowing What You Stand For — the foundation of every strong, trusted personal brand. In a workplace defined by constant disruption, visibility without clarity is noise. If you don’t define what you stand for, others will define it for you — and not always in your favor. Your personal brand isn’t what you say about yourself.  It’s how you operate.  It’s what people see you do.  It’s what people hear you say — consistently, over time. In this episode, Jayzen breaks down why brand clarity is the key to being in demand, rather than being overlooked. When thinking about your brand, Jayzen highlights:  • Why trying to copy other leaders is the fastest way to dilute your brand • Why degrees, titles, and credentials are no longer differentiators • How your daily behaviors define your reputation more than your résumé • Why “authenticity” isn’t a personality trait — it’s disciplined consistency Key takeaways include:There is only one you — and that’s your advantage. You don’t need to be Oprah, your CEO, or a famous leader. Your power comes from being unmistakably you.Your brand is defined by how you operate. What you deliver, how you respond under pressure, and how people experience working with you is your brand.Brand DNA drives everything. Just like Nike doesn’t sell shoes — it sells performance and belief — your brand DNA should guide every decision, interaction, and opportunity.Tailwinds accelerate careers. When people consistently describe you with the same strengths, your career gains momentum. Clarity creates shortcuts.Headwinds create drag. Unmanaged behaviors under stress can erase your strongest brand equity. Awareness is non-negotiable.Words aren’t enough — behaviors matter. If someone followed you with a camera for two weeks, what would they actually see? Your brand lives in observable actions. In celebration of the Oscars, Jayzen is joined by Dave Karger, award-winning television host, entertainment commentator, and one of the most trusted voices in film and awards-season coverage. Dave is a longtime host on Turner Classic Movies (TCM) and has appeared on The Today Show more than 215 times over the past 25 years. He is also the author of 50 Oscar Nights and the upcoming 50 Movie Nights. Dave’s career is a masterclass in brand clarity, consistency, and credibility.  Dave’s career is a clear example of brand clarity in action. He didn’t wait to be promoted — he consistently operated at the next level until advancement became the obvious next step. Over time, his reputation was built on three behaviors: being respectful, reliable, and prepared. Not as buzzwords, but as lived habits. Dave also made career decisions with a long-term mindset, understanding that every choice either raised or lowered his reputational “credit score.” That trust compounded, creating leverage and opportunity. By becoming deeply known for the Oscars and classic film, Dave built lasting demand. His journey proves Jayzen’s core belief: strong personal brands don’t need to be loud — they’re trusted. To book Jayzen for a keynote, workshop, or leadership program :  JayzenPatria.com Guest Bio Dave Karger TCM Host & Author Dave Karger is an award-winning television host, interviewer, and entertainment commentator. Since 2018 he’s been a host on Turner Classic Movies, where he introduces classic films and conducts interviews with stars and filmmakers of the past and present. He has also made over 200 live appearances on NBC’s Today show over the past 25 years. He has been called “this generation’s mass-media cinematic ambassador” by The Wrap and a “beloved entertainment guru” by The Hollywood Reporter. His first book, “50 Oscar Nights,” from TCM and Running Press, was published in 2024. His second book, “50 Movie Nights: Your Favorite Stars’ Favorite Classic Films,” will be released in 2026. In 2015 Dave received the Publicists Guild Press Award honoring the year’s outstanding entertainment journalist. In 2014 he was named one of OUT Magazine’s “OUT 100,” acknowledging the most influential people in the LGBTQ+ community.  From 2012 to 2016 Dave served as Chief Correspondent at Fandango, where he created and hosted the original video series “The Frontrunners,” which received a Webby Award nomination for Best Variety Series. Before that, Dave spent 17 years at Entertainment Weekly, working his way up from intern to senior writer and eventually writing over 50 cover stories for the magazine, on subjects including George Clooney, Angelina Jolie, Elton John, Taylor Swift, Denzel Washington, Julianne Moore, Paul Rudd, and Kelly Clarkson.  In 2018 Dave co-hosted ABC’s Live from the Red Carpet on Oscar night. In 2012 he was named the Academy’s official red-carpet greeter, only the third person ever to hold that post. He also co-hosted the 2011 Oscars Digital Experience (produced by The Academy and ABC), which won the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Creative Achievement in Interactive Entertainment.  Dave has served on the juries of the TriBeCa, South by Southwest, Florida, Napa Valley, and Los Angeles film festivals. He is a graduate of Duke University. Links  To book Jayzen for a speaking engagement or workshop, visit Jayzenpatria.com

Welcome to week 2 of Season 7! As we roll into 2026, now is the perfect time for you to hone your personal brand, starting with Step 1 of the Lead With Your Brand system. Before continuing the conversation with Disney legend, Bob Gurr, Jayzen introduces this critical step: Define your audience so you can SuperServe your SuperFans. In a crowded, fast-changing workplace, professionals who try to appeal to everyone become interchangeable. Momentum comes from focus. Jayzen reminds listeners that opportunities don’t flow through resumes—they flow through relationships, and relationships are built when people feel deeply understood. Great brands grow by being intentional about who they serve. Careers work the same way. By identifying the people who already trust, advocate for, and champion you—and understanding what they want, need, and care about—you create clarity around how your brand shows up and why it matters. This step sets the foundation for becoming a super-premium brand, not a commodity. Key Takeaways:• If you try to be everything to everyone, you become nothing to no one Focus creates differentiation and demand. • SuperFans drive opportunity Promotions, referrals, and influence come from people who trust and advocate for you. • Career Audience Avatars are about mindset, not demographics Your most powerful supporters share values and behaviors, not necessarily titles or industries. • Knowing your audience sharpens your brand Clarity allows you to show up with confidence, consistency, and relevance. • Super-serving the right people attracts others When you focus on your core audience, broader opportunity follows. This week, Jayzen is thrilled to continue the conversation with one of his personal heroes, Disney legend and former Disney Imagineer, Bob Gurr. Originally trained as an industrial designer with a love of cars, mechanics, and motion, Bob’s career changed forever when Walt Disney invited him to help build Disneyland. What started as a small design assignment quickly grew into a defining role. As Bob famously says, “If it moves on wheels at Disneyland, I probably designed it.” He’s the creative force behind some of the most iconic attractions in theme park history, including Autopia, the Disneyland Monorail, Matterhorn Bobsleds, and the Haunted Mansion Doom Buggies. Over his Disney career, Bob completed more than 100 projects directly for Walt Disney, becoming known for his fearlessness, curiosity, and ability to say yes to challenges no one else wanted. After leaving Disney, Bob didn’t slow down—he expanded. He went on to design 150+ major projects for other clients worldwide. Now 94 years young, Bob remains an active speaker, creator, and cultural icon. His story is a living example of what Jayzen teaches: competence, curiosity, persistence, and fearlessness build a brand that lasts decades—not job titles. Guest Bio Bob Gurr Legendary Disney Imagineer Imagineer Bob Gurr has always been a man on the move. And for nearly 40 years, he’s helped move many a happy Disney theme park guests aboard vehicles and ride conveyances of his own design. As he has often quipped, “If it moves on wheels at Disneyland, I probably designed it.” And he certainly has, developing more than 100 designs for attractions ranging from Autopia to the Matterhorn Bobsleds to the Disneyland and Walt Disney World Monorails, and more.  For nearly five decades, Bob worked transportation magic developing the Disneyland Monorail Trains, the memorable Flying Saucers attraction in Tomorrowland, as well as the antique cars and double-decker buses of Main Street, Ford Motor Company’s Magic Skyway, which premiered at the 1964-65 New York World’s Fair, and more. Bob also designed the mechanical workings of Disney’s first AudioAnimatronics figure – Abraham Lincoln featured in Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln.  In 1981, Bob retired early from Imagineering in order to launch GurrDesign, Inc., and three years later, joined creative forces with two former Imagineers to form Sequoia Creative, Inc. The firm, which specialized in “leisure-time spectaculars” and “fantastical beasts,” developed King Kong and Conan’s serpent featured at Universal Studios, Hollywood. Among his other mechanical feats, Bob was instrumental in creating the mysterious UFO that soared over the closing ceremonies of the 1984 Los Angeles Summer Olympics. He also consulted on the T-Rex animated figure featured in Steven Spielberg’s motion picture Jurassic Park.    Bob Gurr practices a favorite life philosophy as quoted in the words of Malcolm Forbes: “While alive, live!” Links  To book Jayzen for a speaking engagement or workshop, visit Jayzenpatria.com

Happy New Year and welcome to Season 7 of the LEAD WITH YOUR BRAND!™ Podcast. Jayzen Patria kicks off the new season with a clear and urgent message: the rules of career success have changed—and your personal brand is non-negotiable in 2026. Economic uncertainty, rapid AI adoption, shifting corporate priorities, and nonstop disruption have created a perfect storm in today’s workplace. In this environment, companies are no longer looking for interchangeable workers. They are looking for standout talent with a clear, trusted, super-premium personal brand. Your personal brand is no longer about self-promotion. It’s about career ownership, relevance, and long-term opportunity. In this episode, Jayzen breaks down why your brand determines: • Who gets a seat at the table • Who gets trusted with new opportunities • Who gets paid more—and why Key Takeaways: Are you coffee or are you Starbucks?Commodity professionals are interchangeable. Super-premium brands are sought out, trusted, and paid more. Great work alone isn’t enough anymoreIf people don’t know your value, they can’t advocate for you, sponsor you, or amplify your impact. Your brand earns you a seat at the tableOpportunities flow through relationships. A strong brand expands your network and builds an army of champions. Your brand future-proofs you in an AI worldRoles will change—or disappear—but a trusted brand allows people to follow you into new, undefined opportunities. Compensation is brand feedbackSalary, bonuses, and promotions directly reflect how valuable your brand is perceived to be. A brand is not a logo, outfit, or taglineYour brand is your unique DNA—the sum of experiences, behaviors, and expectations others associate with you. Jayzen grounds it all in one core truth: Your brand is the expectations people have of you—and expectations drive opportunity. To start the year, Jayzen is thrilled to welcome one of his personal heroes: Disney Legend and former Disney Imagineer Bob Gurr. Originally trained as an industrial designer with a love of cars, mechanics, and motion, Bob’s career changed forever when Walt Disney invited him to help build Disneyland. What began as a small assignment quickly evolved into a defining role in theme park history. As Bob famously says, “If it moves on wheels at Disneyland, I probably designed it.” Bob is the creative force behind iconic attractions including Autopia, the Disneyland Monorail, Matterhorn Bobsleds, and the Haunted Mansion Doom Buggies. He completed 100+ projects directly for Walt Disney, becoming known for fearlessness, curiosity, and saying yes to challenges others avoided. After Disney, Bob went on to design 150+ major projects worldwide. Now 94 years young, he remains an active speaker, creator, and cultural icon. His story perfectly reinforces Jayzen’s message: competence, curiosity, persistence, and fearlessness build a brand that lasts decades—not job titles. To book Jayzen for a keynote or workshop: JayzenPatria.com

Happy New Year! As 2025 comes to a close, Jayzen Patria reflects on a transformative year and shares the most powerful career and personal brand insights from some of the podcast’s most memorable guests. This special year-end episode blends Jayzen’s own career advice with standout moments on leadership, adaptability, curiosity, authenticity, and knowing your value—all designed to help you hit the ground running in 2026. If you’re looking to pause, reflect, and reset your career strategy for the year ahead, this episode is your playbook. Jayzen’s Core Career Advice for 2026 “Find a hole and fill it.” In a year defined by economic shifts, AI disruption, return-to-work changes, and constant uncertainty, Jayzen challenges listeners to: Take stock of your towering strengthsReconnect with your passionsIdentify the needs of your boss, company, and industryTailor your current role—like tailoring clothes—to better fit who you are and the value you bringYour brand isn’t about you. It’s about the value you deliver to others. Career advice for 2026 from past guests includes: John Pagano — VP of Editorial, Nickelodeon Digital Studios Don’t be afraid of the future. Stay resilient and keep moving forward, even when the path isn’t clear. Gina Woods — Co-Founder/Owner, Donna’s Recipe by Tabitha Brown Be ready to pivot. Embrace change and learn to enjoy the ride. Liz Randall — Head of Operations, Strategic Development, CAA Stay curious. Curiosity keeps you current and relevant. Tina Shaw — Creative Director, Activision Protect your curiosity. Your brand travels faster than your résumé—don’t wait for permission to lead. Jennifer Kaplan — Founder & CEO, Evolve Public Relations and Marketing Focus on your niche and remember: perception is reality. Victoria Boston — EVP & Chief Customer Experience Officer, Tech Network Inc. Know your worth. Ask for what you want—no apologies. Brett Lemick — Creative Studio Manager, Ryanair Every room needs your version of “you.” Find the tables where you truly fit. Iva Chen — CEO, IOC Design & Consulting Do work you love. Passion fuels energy, excellence, and fulfillment. Emily Chang — Bestselling Author & Executive Leader Define your own winning formula and don’t follow someone else’s version of success. Be sure to follow for the latest shows in 2026 with some incredible guests, including: Disney Imagineer Bob GurrEntertainment insider Dave KargerCEO of the American Red Cross, Cliff HoltzLinks  To book Jayzen for a speaking engagement or workshop, visit Jayzenpatria.com

Tune in as Jayzen invites listeners to look at personal branding through an unexpected—but powerful—lens: holiday decor. As homes, offices, and public spaces fill with intentional (or unintentional) signals during the holidays, Jayzen reminds us that nothing meaningful is accidental. Every design choice tells a story—about values, identity, priorities, and purpose. The message is clear: brand is not a logo or a LinkedIn headline—it’s the sum of your conscious choices. Jayzen then bridges this insight directly to leadership and career growth. Just as we decorate our homes, we are constantly “decorating” our professional spaces—through meetings, emails, visibility, energy, and presence. Whether intentional or not, we are always sending signals. For ambitious professionals and leaders, leaving those signals to chance is risky. Autopilot is the enemy of leadership. Key Takeaways Everything Is a Choice: Your brand is shaped by the decisions you make daily—what you amplify, what you edit, and what you ignore.Experience Beats Intention: What matters is not what you intend people to experience, but what they actually walk away remembering about you.Edit With Purpose: Over-decorating can dilute impact. The strongest brands know when to dial it up—and when to pull it back.Context Is King: The “right behavior at the right time” matters more than being loud or safe all the time.Know What’s Missing: Growth comes from identifying what you want to be known for next—strategic thinking, advocacy, executive presence, visibility, or new skills.Lead Intentionally: Choose one moment—one meeting, one conversation—where you consciously show up as the leader you want to be, not the one you inherited.Design, Don’t Drift: Your career, like your home, is something you get to design intentionally—not perfectly or performatively, but with purpose. Jayzen is joined by Georgia Fort, an independent journalist, founder of Black Press, and president of the Center for Broadcast Journalism. Georgia shares her journey from traditional media into pioneering independent journalism, sparked by industry disruption, personal adversity, and a deep commitment to changing how stories about Black communities are told. Through Black Press and the Center for Broadcast Journalism, Georgia is not only telling underreported stories but also building sustainable infrastructure and cultivating the next generation of journalists. Her story is a masterclass in aligning mission, brand, and impact—especially during times of disruption. Guest Bio Georgia Fort Founder of BLCK Press &  President of the Center for Broadcast Journalism. Georgia Fort is leading the necessary movement to reclaim media's power. As the founder of BLCK Press, a social enterprise newsroom, she’s connecting journalism to Black culture. She has a dynamic vision of mobilizing the next generation of media starting at home in Minnesota, the 12th largest state, and the 22nd most populous with about 6 million residents, in which less than 3% of journalists are Black. As a graduate of the University of Saint Thomas, Fort’s work bridges frontline reporting and executive-level strategy to rebuild media infrastructure from the ground up. As the President of the Center for Broadcast Journalism (501c3), she’s developing the next generation of reporting. Georgia's nonprofit was created to educate and coach the future of news. From editorial to fundraising to marketing, Georgia’s hands-on leadership is proving what’s possible when we build for ourselves—and build to last. Links  To book Jayzen for a speaking engagement or workshop, visit Jayzenpatria.com

In this Giving Tuesday episode, Jayzen invites listeners to reflect on generosity as a fundamental strength of personal branding. Drawing from his own service with the Los Angeles LGBT Center and the American Red Cross, he reminds us that giving—whether time, talent, or treasure—expands our skills, deepens our relationships, and strengthens our personal brands. Jayzen revisits a powerful lesson from a former leader: “Selfish companies can’t serve.” The same is true for individuals—your brand isn’t about you; it’s about the value you provide to others. Jayzen offers three actionable ways to be generous with your brand: Share Your Superpowers Freely.Mentor someone, help a colleague sharpen their work, or lend your creativity to someone who needs it.Make High-Value Connections.Become the connective tissue that brings people together with no expectation of return.Spotlight Someone Else’s Greatness.Use your platform—meetings, team stand-ups, or social media—to amplify someone else’s win.As you move into the holiday season, Jayzen challenges you to choose one generosity practice to deepen your brand and expand the world around you. This week, Jayzen sits down with Jennifer Kaplan, Founder and CEO of Evolve PR & Marketing, now Arizona’s largest public relations firm. Jennifer shares her remarkable 20-year entrepreneurial journey—one rooted in authenticity, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to telling powerful stories. Jennifer reflects on what it means to “own your brand,” emphasizing that perception is reality and authenticity creates a genuine connection. She opens up about pivotal career moments: leaving a successful sales role to pursue her true calling in PR, navigating a major life transition in her early 30s, and ultimately building Evolve into a 27-person powerhouse representing more than 140 clients. Her candid stories—from “faking it till she made it” to landing game-changing clients like Sprinkles Cupcakes and Waymo—illustrate how confidence, boldness, and relationship-building fuel long-term success. Guest Bio Jennifer Kaplan Founder & CEO Evolve Public Relations and Marketing Jennifer Kaplan is the founder and CEO of Evolve Public Relations and Marketing, a premier PR agency she established in 2010 to help businesses and professionals authentically tell their stories. With a communications degree from Arizona State University and an entrepreneurial spirit, Jennifer has dedicated her career to elevating brands, building trust, and fostering meaningful connections. Jennifer comes from a family of entrepreneurs, so forging her own path was a no-brainer! As a young professional, she left her steady sales job to take on her first client, boldly launching herself into the rest of her career. In 2005 she co-founded her first PR start-up, PRIME 3, LLC, but later sold her share to branch out and start Evolve! Now, her team works across industries to provide media coverage, influencer engagement, reputation management, and crisis communications. Jennifer’s work has garnered widespread acclaim. She’s been honored as one of “The Most Influential Women in Arizona Business” by AZ Business Magazine, a “40 Under 40” by Phoenix Business Journal, a “Woman of Achievement” by InBusiness Magazine, and the inaugural Hugh Downs School of Human Communication Alumni of the Year. When Jennifer isn’t running her agency, she fills her cup with yoga, cheering on the ASU Sun Devils, and of course, spending time with her family. Links  To book Jayzen for a speaking engagement or workshop, visit Jayzenpatria.com

In this episode, Jayzen reminds listeners that nobody cares more about your career than you do—so you must be your own Chief Marketing Officer. With performance review season approaching, he challenges professionals to treat their self-assessments as advertising campaigns for their personal brand. Jayzen’s key points include: Be intentional and proactive: Don’t wait until the last minute to write your self-review. Use it to market your accomplishments and showcase your value.Use brand language: Infuse your self-assessment with the tone and energy of your personal brand while aligning it to your company’s core values.Reflect deeply: Highlight three areas—what you’re most proud of, what you’ve learned, and what you need to develop to be a “rock star” in 2026.Be your own CMO: Your self-assessment is your “advertising”—a message you fully control. Show up on-brand and make it easy for your manager to advocate for you. Jayzen ties this back to his signature question: Are you Coffee or are you Starbucks?—reminding us that successful professionals aren’t generic commodities. They’re super-premium brands that people line up for because of the unique experience and value they deliver. Jayzen is thrilled to welcome Iva Chen to the show. Her story is one of vision, grit, and transformation. From her early days working as a high school cashier at San Francisco International Airport to becoming the independent owner and operator of the first Panda Express at SFO, Iva has truly come full circle. Iva’s career has included corporate finance as a CPA at Deloitte and leadership roles at Nestlé, CBS Paramount, and The Capital Group. Tune in to hear lessons from her father’s pioneering work forming the Starbucks–HMS Host airport partnership, a story that perfectly embodies the Lead With Your Brand philosophy—transforming everyday “coffee” into a globally recognized experience. Guest Bio Iva Chen CEO IOC Design and Consulting Iva Chen is a dynamic entrepreneur, operator, and community advocate whose career spans finance, hospitality, and brand development. A UC Santa Barbara graduate and licensed CPA, she began her career at Deloitte before holding leadership roles at Nestlé, CBS Paramount, and The Capital Group. She’s now the CEO of IOC Design and Consulting and Chief Development Officer of Lady Luck Gourmet — and most recently became the independent owner and operator of the first-ever Panda Express at San Francisco International Airport. Her entrepreneurial path has taken her from building a chain of pizzerias in China to producing experiential marketing campaigns for brands like Taco Bell, Hyundai, and Herbalife. Iva also serves as Vice President of Public Relations for the AMAC Los Angeles Chapter, sits on the Board of Directors for Pretend City Children’s Museum, and co-founded the Association of Asians in Aviation. She’s deeply passionate about mentorship, women’s empowerment, and helping the next generation of diverse leaders take flight. Links  To book Jayzen for a speaking engagement or workshop, visit Jayzenpatria.com

This week, Jayzen Patria challenges you to think like the Chief Marketing Officer of your career. Fresh off the NAMIC Conference in New York City, Jayzen draws powerful lessons from the bright lights of Times Square — where every billboard and brand is intentional — to teach how you can market yourself with the same level of strategy and authenticity. Jayzen explores how your personal brand is built — and perceived — every single day. Drawing inspiration from the chaos and brilliance of Times Square, he outlines three key marketing pillars for your career: Advertising: Your online presence is your billboard. Make it intentional, inviting, and aligned with your brand story.  “If your LinkedIn photo is blank, it’s like an empty Times Square billboard.”Endorsers: Your network is your team of influencers. Surround yourself with advocates who elevate and expand your visibility.Word of Mouth: Your reputation is your real brand. Every interaction, even casual moments, tells your story.  “There is no off stage. You’re always visible to people who can impact your career.”Key Takeaways: Take control of your message — you own your advertising.Cultivate connections who will endorse and amplify you.Manage your reputation intentionally — people are always watching.Authenticity is your strongest marketing strategy.Be your own CMO and turn up the volume on your personal brand.Then, Jayzen sits down with Suezette Yasmin Robotham, visionary tech executive and author of Beyond Titles: Fearlessly Leading as Your Authentic Self. Suzette shares her incredible career journey from education reform to Silicon Valley, her fight against “covering” at work, and her lessons on leading boldly, bravely, and with purpose. Suezette Yasmin Robotham is a tech executive, leadership strategist, and author with nearly 20 years of experience driving transformation across industries. She’s held senior roles at Google, Meta, Salesforce, Gartner, and Teach for America, helping organizations scale with equity, access, and purpose. Guest Bio Suezette Yasmin Robotham Tech Executive and Author Suezette Yasmin Robotham is a visionary tech executive with nearly twenty years of experience driving transformative change at the intersection of passion and purpose, creating equitable access and opportunity for historically underrepresented groups. She honed her leadership acumen in the education reform sector, shaping human capital strategies for influential organizations Teach For America and The New Teacher Project.  Her career trajectory has since elevated her to global leadership roles at industry giants such as Google, Meta (Facebook), Gartner, and Salesforce, where she has led high-impact teams and initiatives.

As conference season kicks into full gear, Jayzen Patria shares practical strategies on how to lead with your brand while making authentic connections at professional events. Speaking from the Out & Equal Workplace Summit in Seattle, Jayzen dives into how to make the most of your time at major conferences — not by collecting business cards, but by building real relationships that amplify your brand. He reminds listeners that your brand only matters as much as you can amplify it. That means using every interaction to put deposits into your relationship bank by engaging others authentically. Jayzen breaks down great networking into three essential actions: Telling – Share a bit about yourself to build rapport. Use your observations to connect naturally — for instance, mention someone’s city, company, or even an interesting pin or accessory on their badge. Asking – Transition quickly into curiosity. Ask thoughtful, open-ended questions that invite people to share their experiences, opinions, and passions. Listening – The hardest and most powerful part. Go beyond “active listening” — listen to reflect. Summarize what you hear, and follow up later to deepen the relationship. Jayzen emphasizes being a “guide on the side” rather than a “sage on the stage.” The goal isn’t to pitch yourself or collect LinkedIn connections — it’s to build trust and genuine connections that last. Key Takeaways Your brand is built in the room, not just online. Conferences are your chance to amplify who you are and what you stand for.Engage through curiosity. Spend more time asking questions than talking about yourself.Build rapport before pitching. Skip the elevator speech and start with an authentic conversation.Listen to reflect, not to reply. True networking happens when people feel seen and heard.Follow up thoughtfully. Personal touches — like remembering someone’s vacation or interest — make you memorable.Jayzen is also excited to welcome his old friend, Brett Lemick to the show.  Brett, is a creative executive and media strategist who has built a remarkable career helping global brands tell stories that engage, entertain, and inspire. Based at Ryanair’s Dublin headquarters, Brett leads the airline’s in-house video and design studio, shaping the creative identity of Europe’s largest airline group. With more than 15 years of experience spanning entertainment, digital media, and corporate storytelling, Brett’s career includes leadership roles at Disney, Snap, and Rainbow Media Company, as well as collaborations with Netflix, Hulu, and Paramount. His journey from YouTuber to Disney Channel producer to Ryanair creative leader reflects a career defined by adaptability, storytelling, and authenticity. Guest Bio Brett Lemick Creative Studio Manager Ryanair Brett is a creative executive and media strategist who has built his career helping brands tell stories that engage, entertain, and inspire. Originally from the U.S., he now works at Ryanair’s Dublin headquarters as Creative Studio Manager, where he leads an in-house video and design team shaping the identity of Europe’s largest airline group. His path to Ryanair spans more than 15 years at the intersection of entertainment, digital, and corporate media. A veteran of Disney and Snap, Brett was recruited by Elisabeth Murdoch as VP of Programming & Development at Vertical Networks, where he developed the Snapchat Discover brand Brother. He later drove content strategy and production at Rainbow Media Co., building one of the world’s most engaged LGBTQ+ media networks with clients including Netflix, Hulu, Paramount, and AT&T. Brett went on to serve as Chief Content Officer at FlyrTV, collaborating with Condé Nast and Mashable to merge proprietary tech with creative storytelling. He also held roles at Gameshow Network, Maker Studios, and The Walt Disney Company. Across every role, he has combined creative vision with process-driven leadership to deliver stories that resonate, amplify diverse voices, and build lasting cultural impact. Above all, Brett aims to "make great stuff with great people.” Links  To book Jayzen for a speaking engagement or workshop, visit Jayzenpatria.com

Well, Fall is in the air, and the pendulum has swung.  Listen and hear Jayzen reflect on the changing dynamics of the workplace and the job market. For years, employees held the upper hand—companies competed fiercely for talent, remote work was abundant, and perks were plentiful. But today, the pendulum has swung back: layoffs are rising, consolidation is increasing, and many organizations are calling employees back to the office full-time When the context changes, you must change with it. That doesn’t mean abandoning your values or pretending to be someone you’re not. It means leaning deeper into your brand superpowers and clearly demonstrating the unique value only you can bring. Key Takeaways: Acknowledge the shift: The balance of power in the workplace has changed; ignoring it puts your career at risk.Control what you can: Like Jayzen’s former leader Larry Kurzweil taught during major corporate mergers, don’t dwell on what you can’t control—focus on how you show up during times of change.Lean into your superpowers: Identify what sets you apart—whether it’s simplifying complexity, building community, or sparking creativity—and put those strengths on full display.SuperServe your career audience: Anticipate the needs of your boss, stakeholders, and clients. Go beyond meeting expectations—deliver solutions and value that help them thrive.Stay off of autopilot: When the market shifts, you need to be in the driver’s seat of your career, steering with purpose and confidence.Jayzen challenges listeners to step forward with clarity, authenticity, and confidence. In times of uncertainty, those who adapt and boldly show their value won’t just survive—they’ll thrive. This week’s guest is Matt Behrend, CEO of Agility, a precision brand advertising platform. Matt is a serial SaaS entrepreneur and revenue leader who has scaled multiple companies to acquisition. In his conversation with Jayzen, Matt shares his inspiring personal journey—from overcoming early struggles to becoming a resilient leader—along with his insights on customer obsession, building strong company cultures, and redefining how brand advertising is measured. His story is filled with lessons on grit, service, and the power of relentless learning. Guest Bio Matt Behrend CEO Agility Matt Behrend is a serial SaaS entrepreneur and revenue leader, currently serving as CEO of Agility, a precision brand advertising platform. Agility’s mission is to make brand advertising a predictable growth engine for all companies. The platform has helped customers achieve significant gains, including an average 250% increase in high-intent traffic and a 2.2x improvement in conversion rates.  With over 15 years of experience building and scaling marketing and sales organizations at venture-backed SaaS companies, three of which ended in acquisitions, Matt has a proven track record of driving growth. He attributes success to two core principles: an unrelenting focus on creating customer value and a commitment to investing in team and culture. 

Fall is here, and host Jayzen Patria kicks off this episode with a masterclass in refreshing your personal brand. Just like the energy of new notebooks and fresh school supplies, autumn is the perfect time to reset how you show up at work. Jayzen dives into brand lessons from household names, showing why chasing trends can hurt your credibility and how staying true to your “brand DNA” helps you shine in a noisy workplace. Key TakeawaysTreat Fall Like a Fresh Start - Back-to-school season isn’t just for kids—it’s your cue to recharge your brand, reset your goals, and show up with fresh energy at work.Refresh, Don’t Reinvent - Successful brands evolve without abandoning their roots. In your career, that means updating your approach while staying true to what makes you uniquely valuable.Don’t Chase Trends - From Cracker Barrel to Lifetime TV, Jayzen shows how copying others or chasing “what’s cool” can backfire. The same is true in your career—lean into what your audience already counts on you for.Super-Serve Your Super Fans - Identify the bosses, peers, and clients who rely on you most and focus on consistently delivering for them.Know Your Brand DNA - Define the few words that describe who you are today—not who you were years ago. Anchor your brand in your authentic value and let that guide how you evolve.Be Premium, Not Generic - The biggest risk is blending in. Don’t let your career brand become “ a commodity like coffee.”  Jayzen is thrilled to welcome Gina Woods to the show.  She is the dynamic co-founder of Donna’s Recipe, who turned a fun nickname for Tabitha Brown’s hair into a multimillion-dollar beauty brand that’s now carried in Ulta and Target nationwide. Gina shares her entrepreneurial journey, how she scaled a self-funded brand, and why leaning into curiosity and community fueled their success. Guest Bio Gina Woods Co-Founder/Owner Donna’s Recipe by Tabitha Brown Gina Woods is a social entrepreneur, investor, and business advisor with a 15-year track record of creating and developing successful beauty brands that prioritize community reinvestment.  As a business mentor, Woods leads a business mastermind program empowering women to kickstart and expand their ventures. She has advised multiple businesses to multi-million dollar companies. Additionally, Woods established the LA Kids Entrepreneur Camp, an in-person hands-on educational program for young minds to engage with accomplished entrepreneurs and delve into the essentials of entrepreneurship. Find Gina on Instagram: @ginalosangeles Links  To book Jayzen for a speaking engagement or workshop, visit Jayzenpatria.com Follow Jayzen on his book journey at LeadWithYourBrand.com/book

In this Fan Favorite episode, Jayzen Patria explores a powerful branding lesson: sometimes your brand is not just about what you choose to do, but just as much about what you choose not to do. Drawing on a story from Nike’s brand strategy, Jayzen shows how being crystal clear on your brand DNA means making bold decisions—even saying “no” to opportunities that don’t align. By setting boundaries and refusing activities that dilute your identity, you ensure your brand remains consistent, authentic, and impactful. Jayzen challenges listeners to take a closer look at their own professional lives: what activities, habits, or commitments might be pulling you away from the brand you want to be known for? How can you more consciously choose to focus only on the actions that build and reinforce your unique value? Key TakeawaysYour brand is built by choice. It’s not defined by your title, employer, or manager—it’s defined by the deliberate actions you take.Defining what you don’t do is as important as defining what you do. Clear boundaries help your brand stay strong and recognizable.Stop running on autopilot. Evaluate the tasks and commitments that may be easy but don’t actually support your brand.Stay aligned with your brand DNA. Every decision should reinforce who you want to be known as, not distract from it. This episode features Javier Constante, President of Dow Brazil & Latin America. With more than 30 years at Dow, Javier shares his career journey, leadership philosophy, and his passion for authenticity and advocacy in the workplace. Recognized globally as a leading LGBTQ+ executive and inclusion advocate, he emphasizes the importance of showing up fully and creating space for others to thrive. Javier reflects on how authenticity, adaptability, and advocacy have shaped his leadership path. He opens up about pivotal career moves, the challenges of leading across cultures, overcoming imposter syndrome, and the liberating moment of coming out to his team. Above all, he highlights that true leadership is about facilitating an environment where people can succeed and grow. Guest Bio Javier Constante President Dow Brasil & América Latina Javier Constante has been President of Dow in Brazil and Latin America since late 2019. In this role, he is responsible for developing and overseeing Dow’s regional strategy and financial performance in the region with the goal of making Dow the most customer-centric, innovative, sustainable and inclusive materials science company in the world. As part of his current role, Constante drives increased focus and action around ESG parameters, including moving to a low-carbon and circular economy, building a more transparent, authentic and safe work environment for employees, and moving toward a more equitable society. Constante joined Dow in 1989 in Buenos Aires, Argentina as a Sales Representative and moved through various marketing and commercial positions in Latin America and across Europe. In November 2019, he took on his current position as President of Dow in Brazil and Latin America. Constante is Vice President of the Board of the Brazil Chemical Association (ABIQUIM), is a member of the Council of Presidents of Amcham (American Chamber of Commerce) and is part of the global Executive Board of the Out & Equal organization for the fight for the rights of the LGBTQIA+ community in the corporate environment. He previously served as a board member of Equate/TKOC and EMC (Equate Marketing Company) and was Vice President of Plastics Europe. In 2022, Javier Constante received the Outie Awards trophy for the first time in the category "Global LGBTQ+ Advocate of the Year" for his leadership in initiatives to include LGBTQIA+ people in the labor market. The executive also made it once again to the TOP 100 LGBT+ executives recognized by the 2022 OUTstanding LGBT+ Role Model List, which he is listed for the third consecutive time. Constante holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from Universidad de La Plata, Argentina, and an MBA from Instituto Altos Estudio Empresariales - IESE, Argentina. He is married and lives in São Paulo, Brasil. Links  To book Jayzen for a speaking engagement or workshop, visit Jayzenpatria.com Follow Jayzen on his book journey at LeadWithYourBrand.com/book

When the world feels unpredictable—industries in flux, layoffs in the headlines, and AI rewriting the rules of work—it’s easy to go into survival mode. But in this week’s episode, Jayzen Patria offers a powerful reminder: strong brands don’t shrink when things get hard—they step up. He reflects on pivotal moments in his own career—like the chaotic merger between Universal Studios and GE—and how choosing to embrace change rather than resist it opened doors he never imagined. Instead of waiting for things to settle, he leaned into the storm, raised his hand, and became the bridge between corporate and creative cultures. Years later, during the 2009 financial crisis, Jayzen faced another turning point. With travel banned and training budgets slashed, he didn’t retreat—he got on planes himself, showed up in person, and found a new way to lead. The message is clear: This is not the moment to coast. It’s the moment to grab the wheel. When you spot a problem, that’s your invitation to solve it—using your unique mix of skills, experiences, and passions. So what’s your next turn? What opportunity is hiding inside the chaos? After Jayzen’s powerful open, he’s joined by the vibrant and fearless Pamela Zapata—founder and CEO of Society18, a multicultural influencer marketing agency that’s shaking up the industry. Pamela’s journey from behind-the-scenes roles at E! and Ryan Seacrest Productions to launching a seven-figure business is both bold and deeply human. She shares how she built Society18 from a side hustle into a full-fledged agency, not because she wanted to build an empire, but because she saw a problem worth solving: creators of color were underrepresented, underpaid, and undervalued. With heart, hustle, and a whole lot of spreadsheets, Pamela took the leap. Her first year in business? She hit seven figures. Pamela opens up about the realities of entrepreneurship—the burnout, the mindset shifts, and the pressure of scaling fast without a business degree. But through it all, she remained grounded in her purpose: to create impact, amplify diverse voices, and pave the way for others like her. Whether you're navigating layoffs, contemplating your next move, or building something from the ground up, this episode is your reminder that the bend in the road might just lead you to your breakthrough—if you're brave enough to turn. Guest Bio Pamela Zapata Founder & CEO Society 18 Society 18 is a bicoastal agency specializing in influencer management and marketing, with a focus on multicultural and multiethnic content creators. Based in Los Angeles, Pamela has spent the past 15 years building a successful career in influencer strategy, integrated marketing, talent relations, casting, and production. Over the course of her career, Pamela has worked with some of the most prominent networks, brands, and agencies in the industry. Before launching Society 18, she served as Senior Director of Influencer Marketing at Starpower, where she led influencer campaigns for high-profile beauty brands including Estée Lauder, Bobbi Brown, MAC, Aveda, and La Mer. In this role, she was instrumental in developing and executing campaign strategies, managing client relationships, and building impactful talent partnerships. Prior to that, Pamela was the Director of Influencer Marketing at United Entertainment Group, where she spearheaded influencer strategy and partnerships for major Unilever brands such as Dove, Suave, Axe, and Popsicle. Her earlier roles at E! Entertainment, Ryan Seacrest Productions, and StyleHaul further shaped her expertise, with a focus on integrated marketing, talent development, and production. Over the years, she has cultivated a robust network of industry relationships, leveraging talent and influencers to drive digital campaigns, brand partnerships, and on-air programming that deliver measurable results and fuel business growth. A proud first-generation Dominican-American and bilingual Latina, Pamela is deeply committed to amplifying diverse voices in the digital space. Her impact and leadership have been recognized by top industry outlets including Forbes, Business Insider, WWD, Yahoo! Finance, Ad Age, Success Magazine, and GirlBoss.  Links  To book Jayzen for a speaking engagement or workshop, visit Jayzenpatria.com Follow Jayzen on his book journey at LeadWithYourBrand.com/book

As we hit the halfway mark of the year, Jayzen kicks off the show with a powerful coaching moment to help you shift from surviving to thriving in your career. Whether your company formally conducts mid-year reviews or not, now is the time to pause, reflect, and reset. Why? Because your next career breakthrough won’t wait for a job posting or a scheduled performance cycle. If you’re not driving the narrative, someone else will. Listen now to hear Jayzen’s three essential questions to help you own the conversation, elevate your brand, and position yourself as the go-to person for what’s next: What are you most proud of accomplishing in the first half of the year? Go beyond the task list—highlight impact. What moved the business forward, inspired your team, or made a real difference?What did you learn? Wins and setbacks alike are learning moments. Showcase how you’ve evolved in your thinking, skills, or leadership approach. Growth is part of your brand story.What do you want to sharpen or focus on next? Set the vision. Demonstrate where you're headed and how you plan to get there. This isn’t about fixing weaknesses—it’s about leveling up your strengths and closing visibility gaps. Whether you're an individual contributor or managing a team, Jayzen challenges you to use these questions as a framework not just for self-reflection, but also to coach and develop others. Bottom line: Your personal brand is built through consistent behavior—but it’s powered by intentional reflection. Don’t wait for the perfect moment. Lead with your brand now. This week, Jayzen sits down with award-winning creative leader Tina Shaw, Creative Director at Activision, for a rich conversation about evolution, resilience, and the power of showing up as your full self—especially when starting over in a new industry. From building digital campaigns for major entertainment brands like NBCUniversal and Netflix to redefining her creative voice in the world of gaming, Tina shares a powerful journey of career reinvention. Tina gets candid about her leap from comfort into challenge, walking away from success at NBCUniversal to join the gaming industry where she had to start fresh and rebuild her reputation. She opens up about the importance of staying curious, embracing humility, and betting on yourself—even when it’s scary. Guest Bio Tina Shaw Creative Director Activision A multiple award-winning creative, Tina is a Creative Director for Activision, leading a diverse team in innovative gaming content across Marketing, UA Mobile Growth & Emerging Franchises for players around the world on Call of Duty: Mobile, Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3+4, Warzone: Mobile, and Crash Team Rumble. Prior to that, she was a Group Creative Director driving strategic creative campaigns across digital, experiential, interactive & AR/VR for entertainment brands NBCUniversal, Netflix, HBOMax, Hulu, TNT, Showtime and FaZe Clan (eSports). Links  To book Jayzen for a speaking engagement or workshop, visit Jayzenpatria.com Follow Jayzen on his book journey at LeadWithYourBrand.com/book