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What does it really take to turn creator passion into a sustainable business? In this episode of We Built this Brand, Becky Owen breaks down the reality behind the creator economy, from pricing your worth and avoiding burnout to why AI isn’t a strategy (and never should be). We explore how creators can build long-term influence without launching a brand, the danger of “AI-for-AI’s-sake,” and why nostalgia, instinct, and human creativity still matter more than ever. A must-listen for creators, marketers, and brand builders navigating what’s next. Show Highlights:  (00:32) Meet Becky Owen: Career Highlights (02:26) Becky's Journey in Creative Marketing (06:05) The Birth of 5 2 9 (10:25) Challenges and Insights in the Creator Economy (28:54) Creators Gaining Equity and Influence (30:29) The Evolution of Podcasting with Humble Pod (31:10) Insights from Muse Volume Two Study (32:13) AI's Impact on Marketing and Creativity (44:14) Practical Guidance for Using AI Responsibly Start a podcast with HumblePod! https://www.humblepod.com/our-services/ Sign up for our newsletter! https://www.humblepod.com/newsletter-sign-up/

Join Chris as he sits down with Halee Sprinkle, founder of Check Yourself Marketing, to explore the human side of social media. From the very origins of “social media” to the challenges of maintaining mental health in a digital world, Halee shares hard-earned insights on entrepreneurship, authenticity, AI, and community-driven marketing strategies that actually deliver results. Whether you’re a small business owner or a seasoned marketing professional, this conversation will leave you inspired, informed, and ready to show up authentically online. Show Highlights (02:09) Haley's Journey: From Army Nurse to Marketing Professional (03:26) The Birth of Check Yourself Marketing (03:30) The Aha Moment: Identifying a Market Need (04:41) Naming the Business: The Story Behind Check Yourself (08:10) Challenges and Failures in Entrepreneurship (10:49) Pivoting During the Pandemic (13:27) Mental Health and Social Media: A Personal Perspective (15:33) Dealing with Trolls and Negative Feedback (20:50) Teaching and Content Creation (27:46) The Role of AI in Marketing (37:55) The Power of Content Creation (41:29) Upcoming Events and Classes (42:49) Final Thoughts and Connections Links: https://czechyourselfmarketing.com/ Start a podcast with HumblePod! https://www.humblepod.com/our-services/ Sign up for our newsletter!https://www.humblepod.com/newsletter-sign-up/

As we close out the year, We Built This Brand takes a step back to reflect on the conversations that defined it. This special year-end recap revisits the moments, ideas, and voices that shaped our understanding of what it really takes to build something meaningful. From honest conversations about creativity, ambition, and identity to stories of culture, community, and brands that endure, this episode highlights the human side of brand building. Across these conversations, one theme kept surfacing: joy. Not the polished, performative kind, but the kind that fuels the work, carries us through uncertainty, and keeps the process honest and human, even in a world of constant change and emerging technology. As we head into a new year, this episode is a reminder of why we build, who we build with, and the stories we’re creating along the way. Thanks for being part of We Built This Brand Show Highlights: (00:00) Introduction: Finding Joy in the Journey (01:06) The Human Side of Brand Building (03:25) Reframing Value: The Story of Pre-Loved Rings (06:03) Creative Problem Solving and Identity (09:11) Rebranding the Anaheim Ducks: A Case Study (20:13) Exploring the True Meaning of Joy (22:06) The Impact of 'What Happens Here, Stays Here' Campaign (25:33) The Beloved Darn Tough Socks Campaign (32:44) The Phenomenon of K-Pop Demon Hunters (35:46) Reflections on AI and Creativity Links:Start a podcast with HumblePod! https://www.humblepod.com/our-services/ Sign up for our newsletter! https://www.humblepod.com/newsletter-sign-up/

In this episode of We Built This Brand,  Chris chats with Vince Wang, Chief Marketing Officer at Mustard Love, the platform helping restaurants connect with local influencers and track real ROI. Vince shares how data-driven marketing and startup experience shaped his approach to influencer campaigns that actually drive business results. A must-listen for marketers, restaurant owners, and creators looking to turn influence into measurable impact. Show Highlights:(00:21) Meet Vince Wang (01:25) Vince's Journey into Marketing (02:09) First Role and Performance Marketing (03:51) Joining Mustard Love (04:28) The Evolution of Mustard Love (05:14) Why the Name Mustard Love? (06:08) What is Mustard Love? (07:39) Influencer Strategy and Success Stories (08:20) Micro-Influencers and Local Impact (11:52) Automating Influencer Campaigns (18:50) Future of Influencer Marketing Links: https://www.mustard.love/ Start a podcast with HumblePod! https://www.humblepod.com/our-services/ Sign up for our newsletter! https://www.humblepod.com/newsletter-sign-up/

We’re wrapping up our LA interview series with a bang. Thai Randolph and Katie Soo join Chris Hill and Adhrucia Apana to talk brand leadership, creative growth, and what it really takes to stay ahead in a fast-changing world. Show Highlights: (00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:47)Meet the Guests: Katie Sue and Ty Randolph (01:19) Ty Randolph's Career Journey (02:55) Katie Sue's Career Highlights (07:15) Brand Building Insights from Katie Sue (09:06) Advice for Aspiring Brand Builders (14:07) Challenges in Brand Building (22:12) Navigating Community Feedback (27:46) Favorite Brands and Influences (29:46) Discussion on K-Pop Demon Hunters (32:55) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Host Chris Hill talks with Adhrucia Apana and Charles Allen, co-founders of Curiosity Entertainment and Storyteller Publishing, about building brands through authentic storytelling. They explore why story is still king, how authenticity drives community, and what it takes to grow a creative brand in the age of AI. Listen now to discover how they’re putting artists first and reshaping the future of storytelling. Show Highlights: (00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome (01:05) Arusha's Journey into Film and TV (02:14) The Birth of Curiosity Entertainment (03:21) Understanding the Business of Storytelling (05:01) Charles' Background and Partnership (06:00) Combining Publishing and Film (07:32) The Future of Storytelling and Community Building (14:03) The Role of Personal Branding (17:44) Challenges and Opportunities in Marketing (20:33) Final Thoughts and Brand Inspirations

Join Chris Hill and Adhrucia as they sit down with Ted Schilowitz, a 40-year entertainment veteran who’s shaped the evolution of digital cinema, immersive experiences, and AI-driven storytelling. From his early days producing children’s TV in Florida to pioneering desktop video with Apple, co-founding Red Digital Cinema, and advising major studios on the future of entertainment, Ted shares his insights on technology, creativity, and the democratization of filmmaking. Show Highlights: (00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:40) Ted's Early Career in Entertainment (01:48) Transition to Technology and Startups (02:23) Involvement with Apple and Desktop Video Revolution (03:39) Founding G-Tech and Red Digital Cinema (04:56) Role as a Futurist at 20th Century Fox (05:57) Impact of Technology on Entertainment (12:16) Democratization of Filmmaking (15:27) AI's Impact on Filmmaking (16:21) The Shift from Traditional to Synthetic (17:40) Advice for Brands in the AI Era (18:42) The Evolution of AI in Visual Effects (22:26) The Role of Brands in Content Creation (25:21) The Future of Filmmaking and AI (25:43) Closing Thoughts and Brand Inspirations

Chris Hill and Adhrucia Apana sit down with Stacy Spikes, co-founder and CEO of MoviePass, to talk about disrupting Hollywood, rebuilding an iconic brand, and the launch of MoviePass’ new fantasy sports league for moviegoers. Stacy shares lessons from his incredible founder journey, what it takes to innovate in an industry resistant to change, how to turn setbacks into breakthroughs, and why building a lasting brand means creating a culture around an activity. Show Highlights: (00:00) Introduction to Stacey Spikes (00:38) Early Life and Background (02:17) Career Beginnings (03:21) Major Achievements (04:38) Challenges and Overcoming Them (09:17) Future Plans and Vision About Stacy Spikes: Stacy Spikes is an award-winning entrepreneur and inventor who USA Today named one of the 21 most influential Blacks in technology. He holds several technology patents and is the co-founder and CEO of the nation’s first theatrical subscription service, MoviePass. In addition, Spikes is the founder of Urbanworld, the largest international festival dedicated to nurturing Women and BIPOC filmmakers.

World champion triathlete turned Oscar-winning filmmaker Lesley Paterson joins Chris Hill and Adhrucia  to talk about building Brave Art Entertainment, the power of resilience, and how great stories are born from grit. From All Quiet on the Western Front to new global projects with Idris Elba, Lesley shares what it takes to turn creative conviction into a brand that lasts, both on the course and on the screen. Show Highlights: (00:00) Introduction and Host Welcome (00:35) Guest Introduction: Lesley Patterson (01:00) Lesley's Triathlon Journey (02:21) Rugby and Building Resilience (03:41) Founding Brave Art Entertainment (04:55) Building the Brave Art Brand (09:41) Challenges in the Film Industry (10:02) Exciting Projects and Future Plans (12:40) Conclusion and Final Thoughts About Lesley Paterson:Lesley Paterson is a Scottish filmmaker, five-time world champion in off-road triathlon, and the co-writer and producer of the Oscar®-winning and BAFTA-winning film All Quiet on the Western Front. A celebrated author and inspirational speaker, Lesley now channels her trademark grit and creativity as the CEO and founder of BraveArt Entertainment, a production company dedicated to bold, emotionally resonant storytelling that moves audiences and sparks change.

On this episode of We Built This Brand, Chris Hill sits down with Gwen Simpson of Phoenix Rising Consultants. Gwen shares her unique approach to human capital development, blending intuition, positive psychology, and conscious leadership to help individuals and businesses thrive. From startups to established companies, discover how human connection, mindfulness, and purpose-driven strategy can transform your brand and your life. Show Highlights:  (00:00) Introduction and Host Welcome (00:28) Guest Introduction: Gwen Simpson (01:20) Gwen's Background and Beliefs (03:07) Consulting and Human Capital Development (04:57) Challenges of Modern Technology (07:15) Incorporating Consciousness in Business (09:03) Final Thoughts 

In this episode of We Built This Brand, host Chris Hill and co-host Adhrucia Apana sit down with filmmaker and entrepreneur C. Craig Patterson, founder of Everyday Mischief, to explore the intersection of AI, filmmaking, and media innovation. Discover how cutting-edge tools like virtual production stages and clean AI models are transforming the creative process, from concept to screen. Whether you’re a filmmaker, content creator, or tech enthusiast, this conversation offers insight into building a powerful media brand, using artificial intelligence in film, and staying ahead of the curve in today’s fast-changing entertainment industry. Show Highlights:  (00:00) Introduction and Hosts (00:31) Guest Introduction: Craig Patterson (00:50) Building a Media Brand (01:44) Technology and Innovation in Filmmaking (04:20) AI and Filmmaking: The Asteria Partnership (09:43) Everyday Mischief: The Brand Story (12:02) Challenges and Strategies in Media Branding (15:08) Conclusion and Final Thoughts About C. Craig Patterson:C. Craig Patterson is an accomplished screenwriter and filmmaker with formal training from Columbia University, NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, and the USC School of Cinematic Arts. His work bridges storytelling, innovation, and technology, earning recognition from prestigious institutions including The Black List, Tribeca Film Festival, and the Austin Film Festival. Craig has collaborated with organizations such as Black Lives Matter (BLM) and Carnegie Hall, bringing powerful, socially conscious narratives to life. Known for his bold creative vision and technical mastery, he continues to push the boundaries of modern filmmaking and media innovation.

In this episode of We Built This Brand, Chris Hill and co-host Adhrucia Apana sit down in Los Angeles with realtor, author, and speaker Troy Palmquist. Troy shares his 23-year journey in real estate, from accidentally landing his first job at 20 to building multiple brokerages and helping shape the future of real estate tech. After a life-changing cancer diagnosis, Troy found new purpose in helping others grow their businesses with authenticity and intention. Show Highlights: (00:00) Introduction and Welcome (01:08) Troy Palmquist's Journey into Real Estate (02:58) Overcoming Challenges and Shifting Focus (05:10) The Role of Technology in Real Estate (09:28) Advice for Real Estate Agents (17:29) Marketing Strategies and Authenticity (20:11) Final Thoughts and Brand Admiration About Troy: As an executive-level growth expert specializing in residential real estate, Troy Palmquist brings creativity, agility, and strategic insight to drive successful outcomes for clients and colleagues. With a track record of representing thousands of home sales, Troy has held leadership roles as Director of Growth for eXp Realty in California, Vice President of Growth and Product Marketing for eXp Realty, and founder of two independent real estate brokerages. A contributing author for RealTrends, HousingWire, and Inman News, Troy shares his expertise on growth strategies, technology, and market insights. With over 2 decades of experience in the real estate industry across the western U.S., he has developed a unique and highly effective approach to working with buyers, sellers, and agents, helping them achieve growth and success in an ever-evolving market.

Join Chris as he sits down with James, Executive Creative Director at Arnold, to explore the art of building unforgettable brands. Inspired at 14 by a single Nike ad, James went on to shape work at legendary agencies like DDB, Fallon, and Goodby Silverstein. In this episode, he shares the philosophy behind Arnold’s bold “Brilliantly Boring” campaign for PNC Bank, why the riskiest move a brand can make is being forgettable, and the lessons he’s learned from leading and mentoring creative teams across some of the industry’s most iconic accounts. Show Highlights: (1:38) James' Creative Journey  (3:45) The Power of a Commercial  (6:17) Finding Truth in Creativity  (7:50) The Role of Jealousy in Inspiration (12:05) Building a Competitive Creative Team (16:34) Progressive's Cultural Impact  (26:19) Brilliantly Boring: PNC's Brand Transformation  (43:45) AI as a Creative Tool 

On this episode we sit down with Greg Logan, an award-winning creative director turned reality TV creator, to explore why so many brands talk about “storytelling” but rarely know how to do it. From his early days at Leo Burnett to founding Narrativity, Greg reveals how he fuses Hollywood’s proven storytelling formulas with brand strategy to transform businesses into loved brands. Packed with insider anecdotes, practical frameworks, and eye-opening case studies, this episode will change how you think about branding and the stories you tell. Show Highlights:(2:27) Greg's Journey from Acting to Advertising(4:19) From Reality TV to Brand Storytelling(7:52) The How of Brand Storytelling: Narrativity(13:25) Putting the Audience at the Heart of the Story(17:29) The Power of Tension and the Customer's Story(19:06) The Quest Formula: Turning Businesses into Loved Brands(21:33) Case Study: Ultimate Finance's Brand Transformation(23:29) Case Study: 1907 Water and the Love Story Formula (27:17) The Power of Ending with a Question(32:09) Mixing Genres for Fresh Storytelling Links: blockbusterbrands.com narrativity.com storytellingquiz.com Start a podcast with HumblePod! https://www.humblepod.com/our-services/ Sign up for our newsletter!https://www.humblepod.com/newsletter-sign-up/

In this episode of We Built This Brand, Joshua Kopac shares his unique journey, starting with being expelled from high school at 13 for hacking and building a million-dollar business by 16. After a life-changing car accident, he shifted his mindset and approach. Now the founder of Be Kept Up, a digital marketing agency focused on affiliate marketing, Joshua talks about the power of adaptability, building systems, and how AI is transforming business. His story is one of resilience, gratitude, and preparing for the future. Highlights:  (00:00) Introduction and Guest Welcome(00:45) Joshua's Early Entrepreneurial Journey(03:40) High School Challenges and Early Success(05:04) First Major Business Success(10:15) Founding Be Kept Up(12:36) The Philosophy Behind Be Kept Up(15:03) Navigating Life's Challenges(22:03) Moment of Validation in Business(23:14) The Importance of Gratitude in Sales(29:50) The Impact of AI on Various Industries(38:59) Admiring Tesla's Entrepreneurial Journey(41:13) Conclusion and Contact Information Links: LinkedIn: Joshua Kopac: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuakopac/Website: bekeptup.com