Shows
Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 94: From Tanks to Tees: How Brandon Built a 7-Figure Brand from a Pandemic PurchaseHey, entrepreneurs! Welcome back to the Innovative Entrepreneurs Podcast, where we bring you the brightest minds in business, design, and strategy. I’m Erica Bailey, and today’s guest is Brandon Mills—a veteran, tech geek, and powerhouse CEO who turned an outdated embroidery shop into a 7-figure branding company with national and international reach.Brandon’s story is a wild mix of grit, growth, and get-it-done energy. From fixing computers in high school, to launching a speedboat charter business in Asia, serving in the military, and ultimately buying a failing print shop two months before COVID hit—his...2025-05-0956 minInnovative Entrepreneurs PodcastEpisode 93: Kimberly Hightower on Reinventing Success After 50 | Bold Moves & Career EvolutionHey, entrepreneurs! Welcome back to the Innovative Entrepreneurs Podcast, where we bring you the brightest minds in business, design, and strategy. I’m Erica Bailey, and today’s guest is Kimberly Hightower—a powerhouse entrepreneur and business strategist who’s redefining what it means to evolve and thrive at any age.Kimberly’s story is a masterclass in reinvention, resilience, and taking bold risks to build the life and career you want—whether you’re in your 20s, 50s, or beyond. If you’ve ever felt stuck, uninspired, or afraid to make a big move, this episode is your permissi...2025-03-311h 22Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastEpisode 92: Merging Design & Science: How Todd Bracher is Disrupting Innovation & Problem-SolvingHey, entrepreneurs! Welcome back to the Innovative Entrepreneurs Podcast, where we bring you the brightest minds in business, design, and strategy. I’m Erica Bailey, and today’s guest is Todd Bracher, a globally recognized industrial designer, strategist, and thought leader in innovation. Todd has spent years at the intersection of design, science, and problem-solving, working with Fortune 500 companies to create solutions that are both beautiful and deeply functional. From sustainable product development to workplace innovation, Todd’s insights are game-changing for any entrepreneur looking to redefine their industry.Get ready for a powerful conversation on how innova...2025-03-2151 minInnovative Entrepreneurs PodcastEpisode 91: From NFL Grit to Financial Greatness: Cory Procter’s Journey in Wealth & EntrepreneurshipHey, hey, innovative entrepreneurs! Welcome back to the Innovative Entrepreneurs Podcast, where we think big, act bold, and build businesses that create real impact. I’m your host, Erica Bailey, and today’s episode is an absolute powerhouse of insight, strategy, and inspiration. I’m sitting down with Cory Procter, a former NFL offensive lineman turned financial strategist and entrepreneur. He’s been on the front lines of high-stakes leadership, discipline, and resilience, and today, he’s sharing how he leveraged his experience in pro sports to build a winning financial game plan.Whether you’re a business own...2025-03-141h 06Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastEpisode 90: Innovative Real Estate: How Scholastic Capital is Changing the Market with Sean O'DowdWelcome back to Innovative Entrepreneurs! I’m your host, Erica Bailey, and today’s episode is packed with insights for real estate investors, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to build long-term wealth.I’m thrilled to introduce Sean O’Dowd, Managing Partner at Scholastic Capital, an innovative investment firm that focuses on single-family rentals in top school districts—a strategy that delivers steady cash flow, appreciation, and tax benefits.Sean’s background is impressive—he started at Boston Consulting Group before earning his honors degree from Wharton School of Business. Now, he’s leading the charge in a unique real...2025-02-2145 minInnovative Entrepreneurs PodcastEpisode 89: From Golden Handcuffs to Financial Freedom – The Luxe & the Short of It w/ Madeleine Raiford-HollandWelcome to the Show!Hey, hey, innovative entrepreneurs! Welcome back to the Innovative Entrepreneurs Podcast, where we think big, act bold, and disrupt the status quo! I’m your host, Erica Bailey, and today’s episode is one you do NOT want to miss.We’re talking about breaking free from the golden handcuffs and creating a life of financial freedom through short-term rentals with the incredible Madeline Rayford-Holland. She’s the founder of MHM Luxury Properties, MRH Education, and a powerhouse entrepreneur with over two million community members who follow her expertise in real estate a...2025-02-141h 05Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 88: The Art of Storytelling & Business with Bestselling Author JD BarkerIn this episode of Innovative Entrepreneurs, I sit down with the master of suspense, JD Barker. An international bestselling author and creative powerhouse, JD has captivated millions with his gripping thrillers, horror, and mystery novels. He shares his inspiring journey from ghostwriting and book doctoring to becoming a household name in publishing, collaborating with legends like James Patterson and earning praise from Stephen King himself.JD takes us behind the scenes of his writing process, the business of publishing, and how he broke all the rules to make his mark. From writing in a trailer like Stephen...2025-02-0744 minInnovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 87: How I Overcame Grief, Impostor Syndrome, and Mental Health Challenges to Build a Resilient BusinessIn this heartfelt episode of Innovative Entrepreneurs, I share one of the hardest times in my life: my dad’s cancer diagnosis, his passing, and how it affected my mental health and business. This honest conversation highlights struggles entrepreneurs often face but rarely discuss—grief, impostor syndrome, and mental health challenges.Through my journey, I discovered lessons about vulnerability, resilience, and asking for help. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by life while running a business, this episode is for you.What You’ll Learn: ✔️ My Story: The impact of grief and impostor...2025-01-3118 minInnovative Entrepreneurs PodcastBalancing E-Commerce, Family, and Doing the Right Thing with Leslie Christiansen👋 Welcome to Innovative Entrepreneurs!I’m Erica Bailey, and in this episode, I sit down with Leslie Christiansen, founder of E-Commerce Specialty Group. With over 20 years of experience in the e-commerce space, Leslie’s journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and always doing the right thing—both in life and business.Leslie shares how she transitioned from corporate America to entrepreneurship, how her values have shaped her business, and the strategies she uses to help suppliers succeed online. From AI and innovation to the importance of mentorship and team...2024-12-2856 minInnovative Entrepreneurs PodcastMastering Interpersonal Skills for Success: Ron Koenigsberg’s Sales PlaybookWelcome back to Innovative Entrepreneurs! I’m Erica Bailey, your host, and I’m thrilled to continue our incredible three-part series, Sales... What They Don’t Teach You in School, with the remarkable Ron Koenigsberg.Ron, the president of American Investment Properties, is a trailblazer in commercial real estate. With degrees from American University and NYU, and as a Certified Commercial Investment Member (CCIM), he’s reshaping Long Island’s property market through strategic thinking and continual learning.Ron’s book, Power Broker: How to Succeed in Life and Business, is a game-changer. Originally w...2024-12-1341 minInnovative Entrepreneurs PodcastMastering Digital Operations: Michael Greenberg on Scaling Businesses with AI In this episode of Innovative Entrepreneurs, I’m thrilled to welcome Michael Greenberg, the founder and CEO of Third Brain Automation. With over a decade of experience in optimizing workflows, digital operations, and AI-driven solutions, Michael brings invaluable expertise on how businesses can leverage automation to scale effectively.We dive into the five levels of digital operations, explore how AI is transforming industries, and discuss the importance of mentorship and trust in business. Michael also shares real-world case studies and actionable insights to help entrepreneurs like you boost efficiency, reduce cos...2024-12-0644 minInnovative Entrepreneurs PodcastEpisode 82: Lessons from Netflix and Patagonia: Branding and Differentiation Done RightSummary:In this episode of Innovative Entrepreneurs, host Erica Bailey dives deep into the power of branding and differentiation. Drawing from her 15 years of experience at CWG Digital, Erica highlights how successful brands distinguish themselves in competitive markets and shares lessons from iconic businesses like Patagonia, Netflix, and Dollar Shave Club. She also reflects on companies like Blockbuster and Kodak, whose failure to adapt and differentiate led to their decline. From compelling storytelling to innovative strategies, Erica explains why standing out is essential for customer loyalty and business growth. This episode is packed with real-world examples...2024-11-2915 minInnovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 81:Transform Your Marketing Strategy with Mind Mapping:In this episode of Innovative Entrepreneurs, host Erica Bailey dives into the transformative power of mind mapping as a strategic tool for organizing and optimizing marketing campaigns. Learn how mind maps can elevate the user experience by visualizing the entire user journey, reduce errors, and create alignment within your team. Erica shares actionable insights on building a mind map as a funnel, emphasizing the “If this, then that” approach to streamline pathways and enhance results. Plus, don’t miss out on Erica’s free Marketing Funnel Blueprint, a valuable resource to help you turn these strategies into action.Take...2024-11-2211 min
Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 75: Work-Life Mastery with Erica BaileyWelcome to another episode of the Innovative Entrepreneurs Podcast! Today we’re diving into the art of achieving work-life balance, especially for women in marketing. This episode is packed with practical tips and strategies to help you break through career barriers, manage your time effectively, take care of your well-being, and build a strong professional network.In this episode, you will…Discover how women and minorities can overcome invisible barriers in their careers by adopting the right mindset and taking proactive steps toward leadership.Learn about the Pomodoro Technique, time blocking, and...2024-09-1325 min
Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 70: Digital Marketing Trends with Erica BaileyIn today’s quick solocast, I dive into the latest digital marketing trends and tips that can help elevate your brand's online presence. In this episode, you will…Discover how platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts are revolutionizing brand engagement with quick, snappy videos.Understand the importance of creating content that reflects your brand’s values to connect authentically with your audience.Learn how collaborating with influencers and integrating sponsored content can boost brand awareness and trust.Explore the significant role influencers play in brand promotion and how partnering with the right influen...2024-08-0603 min
Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 68: Overcoming Procrastination in Social Media Marketing with Erica BaileyHello everyone! I'm so excited to share this episode with you. Today, I dive into a topic that resonates with many small to medium-sized business owners—overcoming the fear of social media marketing and video content creation. This episode is all about taking action now and not letting procrastination hold you back.In this episode, you will learn:The Importance of Social Media Marketing: Why waiting too long can mean missing out on crucial engagement, followers, and ultimately, sales.Understanding Procrastination: How our brains are wired to avoid discomfort and how this leads to pro...2024-07-2506 min
Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 67: TikTok Ban in the US - What Marketers Need to Know with Erica BaileyWelcome to today's episode! We're diving into the potential TikTok ban in the US and what it means for us, marketers. We'll discuss how to prepare for significant shifts in digital consumption and offer insights and actionable steps to stay ahead.In This Episode, You Will Learn:1. TikTok’s Growth and Influence: - TikTok has over 1 billion active users worldwide. - Advertisers have spent over $1 billion on the platform in 2024.2. Demographics and Engagement: - The platform...2024-07-1809 min
Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 62: Authentic Storytelling in Video Content Marketing with Erica BaileyIn this solo episode, I’m thrilled to dive deep into the incredible world of video content marketing and how authentic storytelling can transform your brand.In this episode, you will…Discover why video content is such a potent tool for brand exposure.Learn how real stories and authentic content can connect with audiences in today's marketing landscape.See how showcasing your team members’ contributions can express gratitude and appreciation, adding a personal touch to your brand.Understand the importance of capturing your audience's attention within the first three seconds of your v...2024-06-1114 min
Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 60: Why Start a Podcast for Your Brand?Today we're diving deep into the world of podcasting. Ever wondered if you should start a podcast? What's the point? Well, I’m here to explain it all. In this Episode, You will…:Discover why brands like Slack, Shopify, and GE are jumping into the podcasting game and how it’s becoming a vital part of their marketing strategy.Learn about the rise of podcasting among e-commerce brands and retailers, and why it’s such a powerful tool for engaging your audience.Find out how podcast listeners are among the most engaged audiences, often tuning in during...2024-05-2808 min
Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 58: Cultivating Genuine Apologies & Effective Communication with Erica BaileyToday, in our solo episode, we're diving into the word "sorry" and what it truly means when we use it. Let's explore why we tend to say sorry a lot and what we can do about it.We often say sorry without really meaning it, and that's something we need to address. It's important to be sincere with our apologies and mean what we say.Did you know that different cultures have different views on saying sorry? In some places, it's seen as polite, but in others, it might not be taken the same way...2024-05-0906 min
Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 56: Navigating Confrontation and Perception in Business with Erica BaileyI’m thrilled to share today’s solocast with you. We’re diving into a topic that touches every entrepreneur: the art of handling confrontation and managing perception in our business endeavors.We’re tackling the tough decisions in business, particularly when it comes to ending client relationships. It’s a journey filled with learning and growth, and I’m here to walk you through it.In this episode, you will learn:The Role of Perception: Understanding how our views shape confrontations.Strategies for Tough Choices: Tips for mak...2024-04-2511 min
Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 54: Navigating Adversity in the Workplace and Beyond with Erica BaileyIn today’s solo episode we will dive deep into the topic of adversity in the workplace and beyond. We all face challenges, but it’s how we cope with them that defines our journey.In this episode, you will learn:The Definition of AdversityStrategies for CopingThe Power of MindsetBuilding a Support NetworkConfidence and Self-WorthCritical ThinkingEffective CommunicationMy Personal Story of AdversityRemember, adversity doesn’t have to be a roadblock—it can be a stepping stone to greater things. So, let’s get started and turn those obstacles into opportunities!Stay Con...2024-04-1117 min
Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 53: From Home Depot Sales Agent to a $1.1 Million Painting Venture with Spencer HeywardToday, I'm super excited to share this episode with you all. I had a great chat with Spencer Heyward, one of the energetic minds behind SwiftHand Painting. We covered a bunch of cool topics that I think will really get you pumped up.Spencer isn't just about painting houses and leading his team; he's also a big-time entrepreneur and loves going on outdoor adventures. His story is all about adding color to homes, being creative, and being a great leader.In this episode, you will….Discover what drove Spencer to start Sw...2024-03-2837 min
Innovative Entrepreneurs PodcastIEP 52: Inside Bakslap's Growth: Strategies for Expansion with Raphael McGowanToday, we’re joined by Raphael McGowan, the founder of Bakslap and an advocate for sun safety. From the beautiful Sunshine Coast of Australia, Raphael’s journey from an idea to a global enterprise is nothing short of inspiring.In this episode, you will learn:The personal motivation behind Raphael’s venture into entrepreneurship and the creation of Bakslap.The steps Raphael took to transform a simple concept into a tangible product that’s making waves in e-commerce.Insights into Bakslap’s strategic partnerships with tech giants like Facebook and Amazon Australia, and their role...2024-03-2240 min