Brighter Presence: Personal Branding & Visibility for Experts and Leaders

Barbara Rozgonyi | Personal Branding & AI Visibility Strategist
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Marketing
  • Updated Weekly

How do you make sure your expertise gets recognized, trusted, and chosen? Brighter Presence explores how accomplished leaders close the Expert Gap™, the distance between what they know and how clearly others understand their value in an AI-shaped world. I'm Barbara Rozgonyi, an international keynote speaker, strategic advisor, and publisher of wiredPRworks, and each episode examines how reputation, communication, personal branding, thought leadership, and AI-powered discovery shape who gets noticed, recommended, invited, hired, and remembered. Through focused interviews with executives, CMOs, association and conference leaders, speakers, researchers, founders, and other influential experts, Brighter Presence reveals: How accomplished people become known for what they know What builds, or quietly undermines, trust and credibility How LinkedIn, search engines, media, and AI systems interpret expertise How thought leadership leads to speaking, media, leadership, and business opportunities How to build meaningful visibility without becoming a 24/7 content machine You'll also hear my own solo insights, including my Brighter Presence frameworks and observations from decades at the intersection of leadership, PR, marketing, technology, and human connection. Because expertise alone isn't enough. What gets seen shapes what gets chosen. Brighter Presence was formerly known as Growing Social Now. CONNECT WITH BARBARA Keynote Speaking & Strategic AI-PR-Brand Marketing Advisory: https://BarbaraRozgonyi.com LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/barbararozgonyi Subscribe and follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

  1. Aug 31

    Personal Branding in the AI Era Why You Need a Brighter Presence Now

    The New Rules of Personal Branding in the AI EraIn this debut episode of Brighter Presence, Barbara Rozgonyi introduces the podcast’s next chapter—and why personal branding, executive presence, and thought leadership matter more than ever in an AI-driven world. Formerly known as Growing Social Now, the show began five years ago during the height of COVID, when social media became an essential way to stay connected, support communities, and keep businesses moving forward. At that time, Barbara’s work centered on fractional CMO leadership, agency consulting, digital marketing, and strategic communications. Today, the conversation has evolved. From Visibility to Brighter PresenceAs AI accelerates content creation and reshapes how people discover experts, businesses, and ideas, simply being visible is no longer enough. The challenge is to be recognizable, credible, and trusted—both online and in the rooms where important decisions are made. AI makes publishing easier, but it can also make voices blend together. Generic content, rapid-fire updates, shifting algorithms, and unpredictable AI search results can distort or dilute what people understand about your expertise. That's where personal branding becomes a business asset rather than a vanity project. Your brand must close the gap between: The expertise and experience you have earned in the real worldThe authority people perceive when they encounter you onlineThe executive presence you bring to meetings, media interviews, stages, and conversationsThe thought leadership that helps others remember, recommend, and trust you A New Lens for Thought LeadershipBarbara brings a unique perspective to this work through her background in public relations, marketing, keynote speaking, and photography. Like a photograph, a personal brand depends on the right exposure, focus, angle, resolution, and story. If any of those elements are off, your strongest qualities may be difficult for others to see clearly. Future episodes will introduce the AURAS framework, a practical way to examine and strengthen your presence through: Aperture — Creating the right opening for people to see and understand your valueUnderexposure — Identifying where your expertise is being overlooked or insufficiently communicatedResolution — Increasing clarity, specificity, and consistency in your messageAngle — Finding the perspective that makes your experience distinctive and memorableStorytelling — Turning expertise into meaningful narratives that build trust and connection What to Expect From Brighter PresenceThis podcast will explore the changing intersection of personal branding, AI, public relations, visibility, executive presence, and keynote speaking. Upcoming conversations and episodes will include: Personal reflections on building a more visible and influential professional presenceStrategies for strengthening executive presence in high-stakes settingsThought leadership guidance for leaders, founders, experts, and speakersAnalysis of industry research and trends through a personal branding lensIdeas for using AI without losing the originality, humanity, and credibility that make your voice matterPractical insights for preparing for meetings, media opportunities, presentations, and keynote stages Whether you lead a company, represent an organization, build a consulting practice, pursue speaking opportunities, or want to be more intentional about how people experience your work, Brighter Presence is designed to help you communicate with greater clarity and confidence. Episode SponsorThis episode is brought to you by CoryWest Media, helping executives, founders, and experts elevate visibility, strengthen modern PR, and build magnetic personal brands for an AI-driven world. CoryWest Media offers keynote speaking, corporate training, strategic communications support, and personal brand strategy audits for leaders who are ready to stand out for the right reasons. Take the Mic CheckVisit Brighter Presence to learn more about the podcast and download the free Mic Check guide. Use it to evaluate your current digital footprint and audio-visual presence before your next important meeting, presentation, media appearance, or keynote. Until next time, keep elevating your voice, sharpening your focus, and building your brighter presence.

  2. Season 2 Trailer

    Introducing Brighter Presence

    Five years ago, I launched Growing Social Now to reconnect with friends, colleagues, and inspiring leaders during the isolation of COVID. Along the way, something unexpected happened. As I revisited more than 50 conversations with entrepreneurs, marketers, keynote speakers, authors, innovators, and business leaders, I realized the podcast had never really been about social media. It had always been about presence. In this first episode of Brighter Presence, I share the story behind the rebrand, why visibility today is about far more than marketing, and what you can expect from this next chapter. If you're a CEO, executive, entrepreneur, keynote speaker, marketer, association leader, or business professional who wants to build greater visibility, credibility, influence, and trust in the age of AI, you're in the right place. Together, we'll explore executive visibility, thought leadership, AI, public relations, marketing, branding, storytelling, leadership, communication, creativity, travel, photography, and the people shaping what's next. I'm Barbara Rozgonyi, keynote speaker, marketing strategist, founder of Brighter Presence, and The Visibility Architect™. For more than three decades, I've helped leaders, organizations, and brands become easier to find, natural to trust, and impossible to ignore. Follow the podcast and subscribe to the Brighter Presence newsletter for practical strategies, inspiring conversations, and fresh ideas to help you build a brighter presence—in your work, your community, and your life. Welcome to Brighter Presence! I'm Barbara Rozgonyi, and I'm so glad you're here. What you'll get: Practical AI, PR, and marketing strategies to build visibility, credibility, influence, and trust. Who it's for: Leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, CMOs, keynote speakers, associations, and thought leaders ready to show up and stand out. What it's about: Exploring where AI, public relations, marketing, leadership, storytelling, and authentic human connection meet, and what that means for the future of business and leadership. Your host: Barbara Rozgonyi, The Visibility Architect™, keynote speaker, founder of Brighter Presence™ (formerly Growing Social Now), CoryWest Media, and WIRED PR Works, Fractional CMO, marketing and PR strategist, author, and photographer. I work with leaders who want to build trust, influence, and a brighter presence in an AI-powered world. Need a keynote speaker or visibility strategist for your next event? Visit BarbaraRozgonyi.com. Thanks for listening. I can't wait to continue the conversation with you. BarbaraRozgonyi.com | LinkedIn: Barbara Rozgonyi | Newsletter + Podcast: Brighter Presence

  3. 11/07/2024

    Fractional CMOs and The Evolution of Marketing Leadership

    Ready to revolutionize your marketing leadership - and your copywriting? Join Barbara Rozgonyi, host of Growing Social Now, fractional CMO, and marketing transformer, with special guest Dean Waye, host of the Fractional CMO 90 Day Win podcast and master of first-impression copywriting. Get the keys to unlock strategies that will change your marketing, your business, and your world! 🎯 Episode Highlights Why "hunter vs. farmer" copywriting is the key to marketing successHow fractional CMOs are disrupting traditional marketing leadershipThe psychology behind attention-grabbing first impressionsWhy specialization beats generalization in today's market 💡 You'll Discover Proven frameworks for crafting irresistible first-contact materialsStrategic advantages of fractional marketing leadershipHow to command premium rates through specialized expertiseThe exact formula for B2B SaaS and fintech marketing success Perfect for CEOs seeking innovative marketing leadership solutionsMarketing leaders exploring fractional career pathsCopywriters looking to specialize and increase their valueFounders ready to scale their marketing impact 🔑 Key Takeaways Master the art of attention-grabbing copy that convertsLearn why smart companies choose fractional CMOsDiscover how to position yourself as a premium service providerUnderstand the future of marketing leadership Guest Expert: Dean Waye brings unique insights from his successful podcast focused on fractional CMOs and his expertise in crafting compelling first-contact materials that capture attention in today's noisy digital landscape. This power-packed episode reveals the intersection of strategic marketing leadership and compelling copywriting - the combination that's helping today's fastest-growing companies win. 🎙️ Notable Quotes: "In today's market, you don't need a full-time CMO - you need full-time CMO thinking." "The first impression is everything - get it wrong, and nothing else matters." Ready to transform your marketing strategy and leadership approach? Connect with  GUEST Dean Waye: www.WinstonWrites.comHOST Barbara Rozgonyi: www.BarbaraRozgonyi.com #FractionalCMO #MarketingLeadership #Copywriting #GrowthStrategy Subscribe to Growing Social Now wherever you get your podcasts and never miss an episode packed with actionable marketing insights. Welcome to Brighter Presence! I'm Barbara Rozgonyi, and I'm so glad you're here. What you'll get: Practical AI, PR, and marketing strategies to build visibility, credibility, influence, and trust. Who it's for: Leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, CMOs, keynote speakers, associations, and thought leaders ready to show up and stand out. What it's about: Exploring where AI, public relations, marketing, leadership, storytelling, and authentic human connection meet, and what that means for the future of business and leadership. Your host: Barbara Rozgonyi, The Visibility Architect™, keynote speaker, founder of Brighter Presence™ (formerly Growing Social Now), CoryWest Media, and WIRED PR Works, Fractional CMO, marketing and PR strategist, author, and photographer. I work with leaders who want to build trust, influence, and a brighter presence in an AI-powered world. Need a keynote speaker or visibility strategist for your next event? Visit BarbaraRozgonyi.com. Thanks for listening. I can't wait to continue the conversation with you. BarbaraRozgonyi.com | LinkedIn: Barbara Rozgonyi | Newsletter + Podcast: Brighter Presence

    Fractional CMOs and The Evolution of Marketing Leadership

  4. 09/26/2024

    What Is The Future Of Content Marketing? How To Thrive In The AI Era With Andy Crestodina

    How can content marketing change your future fortunes?  In this episode of Growing Social Now, host Barbara Rozgonyi interviews Andy Crestodina, co-founder and CMO of Orbit Media, about the future of digital marketing, content strategy, and personal branding. With over 24 years of experience, Andy shares insights on blogging, AI in marketing, and strategies for standing out in an increasingly AI-driven landscape. Key Takeaways: 1.    Original research and strong opinions are two content formats AI cannot replicate, making them valuable for differentiation. 2.    AI should be used for research and performance improvement rather than just efficiency in content creation. 3.    Blogging remains relevant, as it helps build a digital footprint necessary for AI recommendations in the future. 4.    Personal branding through LinkedIn, newsletters, and in-person networking is crucial for thought leadership. Surprising Moments: 1.    Crestodina's stance on cream in coffee as an example of strong opinions AI can't replicate. 2.    The revelation that even AI scientists don't fully understand AI, challenging the notion of "AI experts." Tune in for the best 20 minutes you'll spend this week! Thanks for listening and subscribing to Growing Social Now with Barbara Rozgonyi, produced by CoryWest Media.  Welcome to Brighter Presence! I'm Barbara Rozgonyi, and I'm so glad you're here. What you'll get: Practical AI, PR, and marketing strategies to build visibility, credibility, influence, and trust. Who it's for: Leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, CMOs, keynote speakers, associations, and thought leaders ready to show up and stand out. What it's about: Exploring where AI, public relations, marketing, leadership, storytelling, and authentic human connection meet, and what that means for the future of business and leadership. Your host: Barbara Rozgonyi, The Visibility Architect™, keynote speaker, founder of Brighter Presence™ (formerly Growing Social Now), CoryWest Media, and WIRED PR Works, Fractional CMO, marketing and PR strategist, author, and photographer. I work with leaders who want to build trust, influence, and a brighter presence in an AI-powered world. Need a keynote speaker or visibility strategist for your next event? Visit BarbaraRozgonyi.com. Thanks for listening. I can't wait to continue the conversation with you. BarbaraRozgonyi.com | LinkedIn: Barbara Rozgonyi | Newsletter + Podcast: Brighter Presence

    What Is The Future Of Content Marketing? How To Thrive In The AI Era With Andy Crestodina

  5. 06/28/2024

    DigiMarCon SEA2024 Report: Goldmining Digital Marketing PR Strategies

    Where do you go to mine digital marketing gold? How about Charlotte, NC - the place where the gold rush started? Listen in as Barbara Rozgonyi, a fractional CMO and CEO of CoryWest Media, shares insights from DigiMarCon Southeast Atlantic in Charlotte where she presented "PR in the Digital Age: How to Amplify Your Brand's Voice Through Integrated Marketing." You'll learn how to shift your perception of marketing from a cost center to a revenue generator by mastering the latest, and best, strategies for branding, customer experience, sustainability, and AI. DigiMarCon’s speaker lineup was exceptional, including Fernando Angulo, Austin Armstrong, Sunny Dublick, Christina Garnett, EMBA, Jedediah Jenk, Nisha Kashyap, Beth Magee, Lorenzo Morales, Julie Murphy, Chad Petersen, Barbara Rozgonyi, Michael Tucker, and Dennis Yu. This episode is packed with insights that will make your marketing shine like gold!! Welcome to Brighter Presence! I'm Barbara Rozgonyi, and I'm so glad you're here. t7BjiHxPUn8XXimD9HdT What you'll get: Practical AI, PR, and marketing strategies to build visibility, credibility, influence, and trust. Who it's for: Leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, CMOs, keynote speakers, associations, and thought leaders ready to show up and stand out. What it's about: Exploring where AI, public relations, marketing, leadership, storytelling, and authentic human connection meet, and what that means for the future of business and leadership. Your host: Barbara Rozgonyi, The Visibility Architect™, keynote speaker, founder of Brighter Presence™ (formerly Growing Social Now), CoryWest Media, and WIRED PR Works, Fractional CMO, marketing and PR strategist, author, and photographer. I work with leaders who want to build trust, influence, and a brighter presence in an AI-powered world. Need a keynote speaker or visibility strategist for your next event? Visit BarbaraRozgonyi.com. Thanks for listening. I can't wait to continue the conversation with you. BarbaraRozgonyi.com | LinkedIn: Barbara Rozgonyi | Newsletter + Podcast: Brighter Presence

    DigiMarCon SEA2024 Report: Goldmining Digital Marketing PR Strategies

  6. 06/18/2024

    Navigating the Hidden Marketing Recession: Strategies and Insights from 121 CMOs

    Is the marketing world facing a hidden recession? Discover the truth behind the numbers with me, Barbara Rozgonyi, in this eye-opening episode of Growing Social Now News. Based on an exclusive survey by Bospar, CMO Huddles, and Redpoint, we uncover how 121 CMOs are grappling with budget cuts, extended deal cycles, and significant layoffs despite a flourishing stock market. Tune in to learn why 69% of these marketing leaders believe their industry is in recession. Ever wondered how cutting media spending impacts sales? Hear fascinating statistics revealing an 18% sales drop for brands that reduce media budgets, contrasted with a 54% ROI for those maintaining or boosting their spend. We also tackle the extended deal cycles hitting startups especially hard and the severe personal and professional toll on CMOs. From the challenge of securing budget approvals amidst lackluster digital transformation to the troubling trend of marketing seen as a cost center, this episode provides essential insights and strategies for smart marketers navigating these turbulent times. Don't miss this compelling discussion! Growing Social Now is produced by CoryWest Media and hosted by Barbara Rozgonyi. Welcome to Brighter Presence! I'm Barbara Rozgonyi, and I'm so glad you're here. What you'll get: Practical AI, PR, and marketing strategies to build visibility, credibility, influence, and trust. Who it's for: Leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, CMOs, keynote speakers, associations, and thought leaders ready to show up and stand out. What it's about: Exploring where AI, public relations, marketing, leadership, storytelling, and authentic human connection meet, and what that means for the future of business and leadership. Your host: Barbara Rozgonyi, The Visibility Architect™, keynote speaker, founder of Brighter Presence™ (formerly Growing Social Now), CoryWest Media, and WIRED PR Works, Fractional CMO, marketing and PR strategist, author, and photographer. I work with leaders who want to build trust, influence, and a brighter presence in an AI-powered world. Need a keynote speaker or visibility strategist for your next event? Visit BarbaraRozgonyi.com. Thanks for listening. I can't wait to continue the conversation with you. BarbaraRozgonyi.com | LinkedIn: Barbara Rozgonyi | Newsletter + Podcast: Brighter Presence

    Navigating the Hidden Marketing Recession: Strategies and Insights from 121 CMOs

  7. 05/03/2024

    BrandSmart 2024: The Future of Marketing, Brand Experience and Generative AI

    Fresh from visiting the future of marketing at AMA Chicago's BrandSmart 2024, your Growing Social Now Host Barbara Rozgonyi, dissects the revolutionary ideas and trends reshaping our industry. Expect to hear about the seismic shifts AI is causing in our field, not just in terms of efficiency but as a catalyst for creativity and connection.  We'll reflect on the power of storytelling in brand identity, the evolution of B2B marketing, and the ways AI is reshaping the advertising landscape. This episode isn't just a recap; it's an invitation to be part of a bold new era where marketing is as much about innovation and audacity as it is about understanding and engaging with the stories we all share. At one hour, THE longest Growing Social Now News episode ever is power-packed with insights and takeaways to transport you to the future. Thanks for listening, subscribing, and sharing!  #BrandSmart2024 #barbararozgonyi #2024marketingtrends #b2bmarketing #b2cmarketing #dtcmarketing #fractionalcmo #amachicago #americanmarketingassocation #podcast #marketingpodcast #podcasthost Mentioned in this episode Leslie Marshall Chief Marketing Officer, Mesmerise Group, former AMA Chicago President, as an excellent #BrandSmart2024 Emcee; and Chris McGuire, AMA Chicago President, Director Of Client Growth and Engagement, McGuffin Creative Group, Inc., and an engaging game show host!! Thanks to AMA Chicago for hosting and these smart speakers for sharing their brilliance: Staying Grounded While Launching an Out-of-this-World Brand  Sheila Hamilton, Marketing and Menu Lead - New Business Ventures, McDonald’s Embracing A.I. and Maintaining the Human Touch Jennifer Polk, Chief Marketing and Digital Experience Officer, Feeding America Beyond the Game: Crafting Unforgettable Brand Experience Journeys Through Sports Linden White, Head of Account Management and Integrated Solutions, rEvolution Lisa Nucci, CMO, Choose Chicago Dan Moriarty, CMO, Chicago Fire FC Branding in the Narrative Economy: The Psychology of Consumer Experiences Kristian A. Alomá, Ph.D., Founder & CEO, Threadline Ask Me Anything Panel of Experts Shannon Lee, Senior VP of Creative, StudioNorth Pepper Miller, President, The Hunter-Miller Group Lindsay Gash, Creative Innovation Lead, NA Agency, Meta Andy Crestodina, Co-founder & CMO, Orbit Media Studios Innovation as Creativity Meghan Hurley, Vice-President of Global Brand Marketing, Claire's Bronco Boost: Generative AI’s Marketing Journey Goes from Zero to 60 Joe Grigsby, Panel Moderator, VML Jen Swanstrom, US Retail & Shopper Marketing Manager, Ford Motor Company Chris Scuro, VP/Director of Digital Business at Platforms, Ford at GTB David Chan, Digital Strategist, Ford at GTB  Architecting Your Future Jennifer Wesley, Managing Director Talent and Strategy Development, Google Welcome to Brighter Presence! I'm Barbara Rozgonyi, and I'm so glad you're here. What you'll get: Practical AI, PR, and marketing strategies to build visibility, credibility, influence, and trust. Who it's for: Leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, CMOs, keynote speakers, associations, and thought leaders ready to show up and stand out. What it's about: Exploring where AI, public relations, marketing, leadership, storytelling, and authentic human connection meet, and what that means for the future of business and leadership. Your host: Barbara Rozgonyi, The Visibility Architect™, keynote speaker, founder of Brighter Presence™ (formerly Growing Social Now), CoryWest Media, and WIRED PR Works, Fractional CMO, marketing and PR strategist, author, and photographer. I work with leaders who want to build trust, influence, and a brighter presence in an AI-powered world. Need a keynote speaker or visibility strategist for your next event? Visit BarbaraRozgonyi.com. Thanks for listening. I can't wait to continue the conversation with you. BarbaraRozgonyi.com | LinkedIn: Barbara Rozgonyi | Newsletter + Podcast: Brighter Presence

    BrandSmart 2024: The Future of Marketing, Brand Experience and Generative AI

  8. 04/10/2024

    Brands and Podcasting with Brandon Birkmeyer, Brands on Brands

    Discover the transformative power of podcasting in a conversation with two marketing mavens: Brandon Birkmeyer from Podcast Branding Academy and Barbara Rozgonyi, host of Growing Social Now and CEO of CoryWest Media.  Join us to discover how podcasting can catapult your brand into new places. Brandon and Barbara dissect the nuances of crafting conversations that aren’t just interviews but collaborative creations, providing insights that stick with listeners long after they've tuned in. We pull back the curtain on the synergy between podcasting and personal branding, offering up strategies for anyone looking to leave their mark on the world through meaningful dialogue. Transitioning from corporate marketing to entrepreneurial success, Brandon unveils the success secrets behind his top-ranked "Brands on Brands" podcast and the strategic role that high-profile guests play in amplifying your message. Join us for an honest chat about the challenges and triumphs that come with forging a path in the burgeoning space of podcast marketing. Brandon Birkmeyer Brandon Birkmeyer on LinkedIn Barbara Rozgonyi Barbara Rozgonyi on LinkedIn Welcome to Brighter Presence! I'm Barbara Rozgonyi, and I'm so glad you're here. What you'll get: Practical AI, PR, and marketing strategies to build visibility, credibility, influence, and trust. Who it's for: Leaders, executives, entrepreneurs, CMOs, keynote speakers, associations, and thought leaders ready to show up and stand out. What it's about: Exploring where AI, public relations, marketing, leadership, storytelling, and authentic human connection meet, and what that means for the future of business and leadership. Your host: Barbara Rozgonyi, The Visibility Architect™, keynote speaker, founder of Brighter Presence™ (formerly Growing Social Now), CoryWest Media, and WIRED PR Works, Fractional CMO, marketing and PR strategist, author, and photographer. I work with leaders who want to build trust, influence, and a brighter presence in an AI-powered world. Need a keynote speaker or visibility strategist for your next event? Visit BarbaraRozgonyi.com. Thanks for listening. I can't wait to continue the conversation with you. BarbaraRozgonyi.com | LinkedIn: Barbara Rozgonyi | Newsletter + Podcast: Brighter Presence

    Brands and Podcasting with Brandon Birkmeyer, Brands on Brands
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About

How do you make sure your expertise gets recognized, trusted, and chosen? Brighter Presence explores how accomplished leaders close the Expert Gap™, the distance between what they know and how clearly others understand their value in an AI-shaped world. I'm Barbara Rozgonyi, an international keynote speaker, strategic advisor, and publisher of wiredPRworks, and each episode examines how reputation, communication, personal branding, thought leadership, and AI-powered discovery shape who gets noticed, recommended, invited, hired, and remembered. Through focused interviews with executives, CMOs, association and conference leaders, speakers, researchers, founders, and other influential experts, Brighter Presence reveals: How accomplished people become known for what they know What builds, or quietly undermines, trust and credibility How LinkedIn, search engines, media, and AI systems interpret expertise How thought leadership leads to speaking, media, leadership, and business opportunities How to build meaningful visibility without becoming a 24/7 content machine You'll also hear my own solo insights, including my Brighter Presence frameworks and observations from decades at the intersection of leadership, PR, marketing, technology, and human connection. Because expertise alone isn't enough. What gets seen shapes what gets chosen. Brighter Presence was formerly known as Growing Social Now. CONNECT WITH BARBARA Keynote Speaking & Strategic AI-PR-Brand Marketing Advisory: https://BarbaraRozgonyi.com LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/barbararozgonyi Subscribe and follow on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube

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