When the world came to a standstill, Leslie Danford saw an opportunity to nourish change. Her pivot from hospitality to health gave birth to Vitaminis, reshaping how we think about nutrition in our daily lives. Our latest conversation dives into Leslie's entrepreneurial journey, marked by her transition during the pandemic from a career in hospitality to founding a whole food-based supplement company. We explore the significance of nutrition and how the collective reevaluation of our careers leads to taking command of our professional paths.

Juggling the roles of a new mom and a budding entrepreneur, Leslie's story resonates with the struggle for balance that many face. We share candid reflections on the challenges of working from home, managing a household, and the ever-present tug-of-war between business dreams and family needs. Listeners will find solace and inspiration in Leslie's strategies for carving out dedicated work time, as well as the wisdom she imparts on nurturing both a growing family and a fledgling business.

As we wrap up, Leslie provides invaluable insights into the competitive functional beverage industry and the crucial role of FDA guidelines in establishing consumer trust. Additionally, the conversation turns to the art of branding and packaging, essential for capturing customers' attention in a saturated market. The episode culminates with Leslie's reflections on the power of resilience and optimism, offering encouragement to entrepreneurs who are navigating their paths amidst life's unpredictable ebbs and flows. Join us to hear how Leslie's tenacity and innovation have paved the way for success in the realm of wellness and entrepreneurship.

Identify the 5 scenarios where a fresh brand identity could be the catalyst your business needs to stay relevant and competitive. Dive deep with Victoria as she shares real-life examples of how both Lego and Stanley rebranded to bring new life into their once dying brands.

Understand the underlying reasons for a brand overhaul and the undeniable power of strategic design in connecting with your audience. This conversation goes beyond aesthetics, emphasizing the significance of aligning your brand with market trends and customer expectations. Whether you're contemplating a rebrand or seeking to reinforce your brand's presence, this episode is your compass to navigating the transformative journey of rebranding.

Unravel the essential software and subscriptions vital for every female entrepreneur striving to scale their business in 2024. Victoria and Libby, BrandWell’s freshly appointed Chief Design Officer, sifted through years of trial and error to curate a list of their top-recommended tools—ones they use daily and suggest to their clients. Plus, don't miss out on the special PDF guide, packed with details, pros and cons, and even some hefty discount codes to get you started on the right foot.

Listen in as they explore the multifaceted benefits of HoneyBook, which has revolutionized the way they manage BrandWell's operations, from client interactions to internal workflows. Discover how this all-in-one platform not only streamlines the client journey but also maintains the personal touch essential in automated systems. They also shed light on the versatility of Squarespace, Canva, and Haute Stock, sharing insights into how these platforms aid in website maintenance, design creation, and reflecting diversity in stock photography, catering specifically to the needs of female business owners.

Rounding out the conversation, Victoria and Libby examine the strategic integration of tools like Google Workspace and Adobe Suite in daily operations, the practicality of Planoly for social media planning, and the legal ease provided by The Legal Paige’s template shop. You'll hear firsthand about the efficiency gains from using Loom in a virtual business setting and how Square Payroll can streamline your financial processes. After years of searching and finding our favorite platforms, this episode is a treasure trove of tips and tricks for the modern entrepreneur.

Join Victoria as she wraps up a pivotal year on this week’s episode of The Branding Business School podcast. Victoria candidly shares the biggest risks, rewards, and lessons from the past 12 months. Reflecting on her goal to have BrandWell operate with or without her, she shares the steps taken towards this goal, including hiring two full-time employees, Lauren and Libby, who have transformed their roles from brand and web designers to key operators in the day-to-day business at BrandWell.

Victoria proudly shares that BrandWell has launched more than 70 brands and 75 websites so far this year, with launching over 200 brand and web designs by the end of 2023. Yet, the accomplishment closest to her heart is the creation and launch of The Branding Business School. Listen in as Victoria compares her experiences between starting BrandWell and The Branding Business School, hoping that the joys and challenges she’s faced will inspire your entrepreneurial journey.

Looking ahead to 2024, Victoria reveals her plans for a season of rest and reflection, allowing her to focus on areas where she can make the most difference. With three launches for The Branding Business School planned and a designer retreat in Nashville, there’s plenty to look forward to. As we close this chapter, we invite you to join us in celebrating our successes, reflecting on the lessons learned, and staying motivated for the exciting journey ahead.

Wondering how to make your email marketing stand out? Get ready to meet Rebecca Shostak, co-founder of Flodesk, the game-changing email marketing platform that's helping creative entrepreneurs revolutionize their communication with their audience. In our enlightening discussion, Rebecca shares her entrepreneurial journey, from her roots in Silicon Valley to building Flodesk—a company that has over $20 million in annual revenue, all without a drop of venture capital.

Dive into the heart of our conversation as Rebecca sheds light on the unique differentiators that have made Flodesk a star in the competitive industry of email marketing. Listen as she deciphers the complex world of list building and uncovers the secret to nurturing a small email list to yield big wins for your business. Discover the Flodesk philosophy that is all about creating a beautiful, on-brand email experience without the technology tussles by putting your brand first.

As we journey deeper, Rebecca shares an invaluable formula for successful email marketing, and reveals why building an email list is important for conversion and sales. As we wrap up, Rebecca offers listeners an opportunity to experience Flodesk for free. So, tune in to this episode of The Branding Business School Podcast and arm your brand with actionable email marketing strategies. You don't want to miss this one!

Get ready to revolutionize your business perspective and leverage your branding from a fresh, innovative angle because The Branding Business School is officially OPEN for enrollment for the FIRST TIME EVER!!

Inside this 10 module course, we equip you with the tools, insights, and strategies to not just start, but indeed, scale your business with a powerful brand. In today’s episode, Victoria is sharing the nitty-gritty details of how The Branding Business School takes a different approach to business school. Victoria shares how you can establish your brand in a saturated market without compromising your peace of mind. But, there's so much more. Victoria discusses how this course breaks the mold with a feasible few-weeks timeline, empowering you to hit the ground running while avoiding overwhelming stress. She also answers questions like who is this for, and who it’s not for.

If you have been wondering if The Branding Business School is for you, you’re not going to want to miss this episode!

In this episode Victoria is embarking on a mindfulness journey with her guest, Theresa, a certified mental performance consultant and CEO of Theresa Marie Consulting. They discuss everything from her sport-influenced upbringing to the science behind stress to how to increase productivity. Theresa brings her experience as a collegiate athlete to the table, shedding light on the crucial skills of adaptability, vulnerability, and resilience that were honed on the field. She emphasizes the importance of mental toughness and the similarities between entrepreneurs and athletes, such as the need to take risks, set lofty goals, and manage high levels of stress.

Listen in as they explore the power of time blocking and how it can be leveraged to increase productivity. Theresa underscores the significance of focusing on one task at a time, and how understanding our circadian rhythms can help us identify our peak productivity hours. But, it's not all about the grind. They also talk about the need to identify and address burnout and stress. Theresa shares her insights on recognizing emotional patterns, utilizing recovery tools like exercise and meditation, and the importance of rediscovering our purpose.

The conversation continues with mental preparation for optimal performance and the unexpected benefits of boredom. Victoria and Theresa cover the four key components of mental readiness - sleep, nutrition, mindfulness, and self-talk. They also discuss the challenges posed by digital distractions and the importance of awareness to prevent burnout. Theresa wraps up by sharing the power of branding in scaling her business and how embracing boredom can spark creativity. Don't miss out on these game-changing insights!

Ever felt confused or overwhelmed by the numerous misconceptions surrounding pregnancy, birth, and postpartum? Well, you're not alone. Join Victoria as she unravels the truths with Skyler Jacobs, a certified nurse midwife, and founder of Well and Worthy Co. Skyler passionately shares her journey into midwifery, and how her personal mission is to make a positive impact on women's experiences during childbearing. Learn about her course, Movement Through Labor and Delivery, aimed at educating women on childbirth and preparing their pelvic floor.

Their conversation takes them through various misconceptions about pregnancy, from the idea that pregnant women shouldn't be active, to misconceptions about the foods they should avoid. Skyler also demystifies beliefs about labor, including the use of epidurals, and the notion that once the water breaks, the delivery clock starts ticking. She offers a fresh perspective on postpartum care, focusing on the importance of postpartum rehabilitation and understanding the difference between postpartum blues and postpartum depression.

Listen in as Skyler also discusses the significance of preparing for labor and delivery. Discover how intentional movements can open up the pelvic inlet, mid-pelvis, and outlet during delivery, and how this can ease the labor and delivery process. So, join them on this eye-opening episode as they empower and educate women on the journey of childbearing. You’re going to walk away with a wealth of knowledge that will empower you through your journey of motherhood.

Listen in as Victoria catches up with her long time friend, Courtney Garrett, a dynamic entrepreneur with an inspiring journey of building two successful businesses. In this engaging chat, Victoria and Courtney take a behind-the-scenes look at Courtney’s most recent venture, Peasprout - an online children's boutique. They navigate through the realities of running an online boutique, especially in a post-COVID world, with Courtney generously sharing her lessons, mistakes, and victories. As a loyal customer herself, Victoria can vouch for the quality and service that Peasprout delivers.

The conversation also takes a look back to their humble beginnings and how they met in a mastermind group. They reminisce about the invaluable role it played as a catalyst for both of their respective businesses and the significance of having industry experts to freely share advice and guidance. Courtney opens up about her transition from a corporate job to a full-time photographer, leading to the creation of a six-figure photography business within two years.

Finally, they dive into the intricacies of launching and scaling an online business. From discussing the crucial stages of researching manufacturers and vendors to obtaining necessary licenses and formulating marketing strategies, they leave no stone unturned. They touch upon the challenges of juggling motherhood and entrepreneurship and how community and expert advice have been key in navigating these challenges. So tune in and join them on this entrepreneurial journey packed with real-life experiences, challenges, successes, and lessons.

Discover the secrets to setting your business apart in this insightful episode! Listen in as Victoria explores the concept of brand differentiation, using renowned brands like Chick-fil-A and Warby Parker as examples of companies that have masterfully carved out their unique differentiators. Victoria dissects how these companies, and others like them, leverage their unique strengths and deep understanding of their target audience to stand out in a crowded marketplace.

As the episode progresses, Victoria shares the story of her own web design business, Brandwell, and what differentiators she leaned into to create her current customer base of serviced based, female entrepreneurs. Whether you're just starting or looking to reposition your brand, this episode offers invaluable lessons and actionable steps to help you on your branding journey.

Jessica and Amy, from How To Buy A House Class, join Victoria in a conversation about real estate, entrepreneurship, and of course, branding! Jessica and Amy are a dynamic realtor duo from Nashville, Tennessee. They've noticed that many potential homeowners lack access to straightforward and accurate information about the home buying process. Listen in as they share their story behind the creation of their 'How to Buy a House' class - a free, in-person educational course aimed at simplifying the complex world of real estate for first-time buyers. We cover their individual backgrounds, how they teamed up, and why they chose to buy their own homes in their early twenties.

This episode is not just about pricing - it's about saving you and your client's time and generating more qualified leads. Today Victoria dives in with 4 reasons why displaying your pricing on your website is a non-negotiable for her. Whether you’re hesitant about disclosing your prices or simply curious about what the benefits could look like as a serviced based provider, you’re going to want to listen to this episode. By the end of this you might have a different perspective on displaying your pricing on your website.

Join us in celebrating our 100th episode! We're joined by Brittany, Victoria’s sister, for a recap on Circle Day at Squarespace headquarters and some rapid fire Q&A that you, the listeners, submitted.

Some of the questions we answered were how to overcome the fear of public speaking, how to overcome imposter syndrome and speak as an “expert” on a topic, what Victoria would do differently if she could start BrandWell over again, and favorite softwares’ to use besides Squarespace for your business. This episode is packed with experiences, insights, and tips you don't want to miss!

This episode is an honest conversation about sales with Lauren Stinner. We talk about how Lauren started taking sales calls for BrandWell and two big hurdles that she’s had to overcome with selling. We dive into how to sell with confidence, and also how to protect that confidence and move forward even after you receive a negative review.

Lauren Stinner is BrandWell’s COO and has taken on the task of sales calls since last year. Lauren chats about how she converted her first sales call she took, even with no formal training, and also how the additional training she received after that has helped her continue to sell with confidence.Lauren enjoys connecting with people on the sales calls and has even connected with a handful of fellow Swifties. Naturally, Taylor Swift does come up in conversation throughout this episode.

Anna Brakefield, the co-founder of Red Land Cotton, reveals her remarkable American success story alongside her father, Mark Yeager. At Red Land Cotton, the three truths at the core of everything they do are: being family owned, American made, and focused on heirloom quality. Their direct-to-consumer company offers quality cotton products that were made with the cotton grown directly from Mark’s farm and manufactured exclusively within the United States.

As female entrepreneurs, we have a lot on our plates. It’s time to be strategic in the way you show up for your business. In this episode, Victoria shares her 7 secrets to charging more while working less. From her own experience, she’s learned that leveraging the power of branding and by understanding her brand positioning, you can charge more for your services and in turn work less, all while giving your clients a better experience.

Rachel Rouhana is the founder of Haute Stock which is the first styled stock photography membership for women entrepreneurs. She shares with us how motherhood led her to creating her own business and how she went from starting a luxury chocolate favor company to creating what’s now a wildly successful stock photography membership.

Enjoy the Season Premier of the same great podcast with a new name and mission, The Branding Business School Podcast

Enjoy the Season Premier of the same great podcast with a new name and mission, The Branding Business School Podcast

Enjoy the Season Premier of the same great podcast with a new name and mission, The Branding Business School Podcast