The Brand Mixology Podcast

Claire Marshall
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I’m Claire Marshall — brand strategist, creative thinker, and host of Brand Mixology. This podcast is all about shaking up the rules of success and finding your own mix of what works. Each episode, I sit down with founders, creatives, and experts to explore the ingredients that go into building a brand - and a life - you actually want. You’ll hear real stories of growth and reinvention, alongside practical insights into strategy, psychology, identity, and innovation. We dig into what makes brands truly unique, and what it takes to build one that stands the test of time. Every guest adds one success ingredient to the mix… and puts one thing they’re ready to leave on ice. Because there’s no single formula for success — just your unique blend of ideas, action, and behaviours. I can't wait to share these conversations with you!

Episodes

  1. Why Your Marketing Isn’t Working (And How to Fix It)

    FEB 13

    Why Your Marketing Isn’t Working (And How to Fix It)

    Ever feel like you’re doing all the marketing things but nothing seems to land? More posts. More emails. More effort. Still no momentum. If you’ve ever found yourself thinking “marketing just doesn’t work for my business”, this episode is for you. In this conversation, Claire is joined by Ben Miller, a B2B marketing expert and Fractional Lead with over 20 years’ experience across agency, in-house and consultancy roles. Ben unpacks the viral LinkedIn post that struck a nerve with founders and marketers alike and explains why marketing usually isn’t broken… but how it’s being approached often is. Together, they explore what a truly customer‑centric marketing strategy looks like, why treating every interaction like a sales pitch quietly kills trust, and how unrealistic expectations sabotage long‑term marketing ROI. Ben also shares why marketing patience is essential (especially in B2B), how to build stronger agency relationships, and when it might be time to bring in a Fractional CMO. If you want a calmer, smarter, more sustainable approach to growth — one that supports both your business and your life — hit play. Key Moment Timestamps (00:00) – Ben’s background: agency, in‑house, consultancy & why variety matters (02:00) – Why hiring only from your industry limits growth (04:00) – “Marketing doesn’t work”: the LinkedIn post that sparked this episode (08:10) – The Life’s a Pitch mistake: why always selling pushes people away (09:55) – The 3–5% rule: how B2B buying actually works (12:20) – Marketing vs sales: understanding their different roles (18:10) – Why patience is essential in B2B marketing (25:30) – Agencies as partners, not suppliers (29:20) – When founder‑led marketing starts to break down (31:40) – What a Fractional CMO really does (and when you need one) (34:40) – Strategy vs tactics: why skipping strategy costs you more (37:10) – Measuring the right KPIs (and avoiding panic metrics) (40:20) – Persistence, procrastination & Ben’s success cocktail Connect with us Ben LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/benmillermarketing/ Ben website https://www.benmillermarketing.co.uk/ Claire LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamclairemarshall/ Claire website https://brandmixology.co/

    46 min
  2. Visibility That Converts: PR, Credibility, and Growth in the Age of AI

    JAN 23

    Visibility That Converts: PR, Credibility, and Growth in the Age of AI

    Visibility That Converts: PR, Credibility, and Growth in the Age of AIwith Victoria Usher, Founder of GingerMay PR is often seen as something you do once you’ve “made it”. But what if visibility isn’t the reward… what if it’s part of the growth engine itself? In this episode of Brand Mixology, Claire sits down with Victoria Usher, founder of the multi award-winning PR agency GingerMay, to explore what PR really is today, when it works, when it doesn’t, and how founders can think about visibility in a way that actually supports sustainable growth. With 16 years of experience building and scaling her own agency, Victoria brings a rare dual perspective. She understands PR not just as a communications discipline, but as a strategic lever that only works when the foundations of a business are right. This is a grounded, honest conversation about timing, focus, leadership, and why PR can amplify a business, but never fix one. In this episode, we cover:What PR actually is today and how it has evolved beyond press releasesWhy timing matters more than tactics when it comes to PRThe biggest signals that a business is not ready for PR yetHow PR should sit within a wider growth strategy, not alongside itWhen visibility supports sales and when it becomes a distractionHow founders can prepare for PR before hiring an agencyWhether PR is something you can do yourself in the early stagesThe growing role of PR in GEO (Generative Engine Optimisation) and AI searchWhy credibility, trust, and quality sources matter more than everWhat sustainable growth really looks like after scaling too fastVictoria’s success “ingredient” and what founders should put on ice A standout insightPR doesn’t create credibility. It amplifies it. When the messaging, audience clarity, product, and sales foundations are in place, PR can accelerate growth dramatically. When they’re not, it simply magnifies the cracks. That’s why saying “not yet” is sometimes the most responsible advice an agency can give. Find Victoria Visit teamgingermay.com Connect https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-usher-a3013a9/ Find Claire Visit www.brandmixology.co Connect https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamclairemarshall/

    43 min
  3. Pitch Decks Don’t Win Deals. What Investors really Look For In Founders

    JAN 16

    Pitch Decks Don’t Win Deals. What Investors really Look For In Founders

    What does it truly take to succeed as an entrepreneur in today’s fast-paced, AI-driven world? This week, Claire sits down with serial founder and investor Andy Evans to uncover the realities of the founder and investor mindset. If you’ve ever wondered whether to take on funding, how to build genuine founder resilience, or why intense business focus is your greatest competitive advantage, this episode is for you. Andy shares his invaluable experience from building and selling three digital media businesses and investing in over 20 companies. He introduces his ‘Jam Sandwich’ analogy for effectively using AI in business, explaining how to leverage technology without losing the essential human touch that builds trust and authority. This is a crucial lesson for anyone navigating the complexities of modern content and marketing. Furthermore, Andy provides a rare, candid look into the world of venture capital, demystifying what investors are really looking for. He discusses the critical importance of traction, the personal traits that signal a founder is a good investment, and offers practical advice on securing investment. We also explore the nuances of personal branding for founders and why a diverse network is more critical than ever for long-term success. This conversation is packed with actionable advice and hard-won insights for every stage of the entrepreneurial journey. Tune in to learn how to make your own luck, avoid common pitfalls, and build a business that not only survives but thrives. All resources mentioned, including Andy’s investor deck template, are linked below. Key Moment Timestamps(04:30) - The ‘Jam Sandwich’: How to correctly use AI in your business. (12:45) - Should your business actually take on investment? (18:30) - The essential traits every successful founder needs. (22:30) - Why female founders might be networking in the wrong places. (29:00) - How to build a personal brand that attracts clients, not just attention. (34:00) - The ‘Ronseal Test’ for maintaining extreme business focus. (40:00) - Andy’s one word for success (and the one to put on ice). About Claire and Her GuestYou can connect and find out more about Andy here https://linktr.ee/digitalfounders You find out about Eleven Writing here https://www.elevenwriting.com/ Download the investors deck Andy mentions here http://deck.digitalfounders.co.uk/ Download the "Jam Sandwich" Thesis here http://deck.thejamsandwich.com/ If you'd like help with your own brand messaging and marketing, you can schedule a 30 min call with Claire, for free, here https://calendly.com/brandmixology/30-min-call

    44 min
  4. SEO is Dead… Or Is It?

    JAN 9

    SEO is Dead… Or Is It?

    Are you struggling to get your business seen online? With the rise of AI, the digital marketing landscape is shifting, and what worked yesterday might not work tomorrow. If you feel like you’re putting in the effort but not getting the results, this episode is your essential guide to navigating the new world of search. We’re demystifying the latest AI and SEO Strategy to ensure your brand doesn’t just survive, but thrives in this new era. This week, Claire is joined by Nick Lima, an SEO veteran with over 20 years of experience and the founder of Rank Fresh. Nick shares invaluable digital marketing tips directly from the trenches, explaining how AI is changing the way we need to think about being found online. He breaks down the critical importance of building brand authority and why consistency is the secret weapon for any SEO for small business. Nick explains the fundamental differences between how traditional Google and new AI tools rank content, offering a fresh perspective on what truly matters now. He provides actionable advice on everything from creating content that AI will favour, to the power of repurposing, the nuances of e-commerce SEO, and how to build trust and credibility that both algorithms and customers will reward. Don’t let your business become invisible. Tune in to learn how to adapt your content, build authority across platforms, and turn these changes into your biggest competitive advantage. Find all the resources mentioned and connect with Nick below. Key Moment Timestamps: (03:02) - The simple, unchanging fundamentals of getting seen online. (06:45) - How AI search is different: It’s looking for brand authority and mentions across the web. (10:10) - How small businesses can compete with huge brands in the new age of AI search. (11:30) - The truth about online reviews: why consistency beats volume every time. (14:15) - Red flags to watch for when hiring an SEO agency. (21:20) - Essential SEO tips specifically for e-commerce businesses. (26:45) - Why you should update old blog posts instead of writing new ones. (37:05) - The one thing to stop doing now: Chasing perfection at the expense of progress. Connect with usFind Nick at https://www.rankfresh.com or connect on https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicklima1/

    41 min
  5. Feeling Stuck in Life? How to Find and Pursue Your Purpose

    JAN 2

    Feeling Stuck in Life? How to Find and Pursue Your Purpose

    Are you feeling stuck in life? It’s a quiet, frustrating feeling that you’re just going through the motions, working hard but not moving towards a life that truly lights you up. If you’re questioning your path and don’t know how to find direction, this episode is your guide back to yourself. In this powerful episode, Claire is joined by the incredible Dr. Barbara Morris-Jensen (Dr. MJ), a licensed clinical psychologist who shares her own profound story of rising from trauma and homelessness to a life of meaning. Dr. MJ explains how to tune into your intuition to start finding your purpose, even when you feel completely lost or unfulfilled at work. We dive deep into the real meaning of overcoming burnout, looking at it not just as a work issue, but as a holistic signal from our body and spirit. Dr. MJ provides practical tools, like her "Wheel of Life" exercise, to help you assess where you are and identify the small, actionable steps you can take to move forward. This isn’t just another conversation about mindset; it’s a heartfelt and actionable roadmap for anyone who feels stuck. By the end of this episode, you will have the tools to start listening to your own inner wisdom, tweak the patterns that hold you back, and build a life that is rich in meaning, not just accomplishments. Get ready to get unstuck. Listen now! Key Moment Timestamps: (01:34) - Dr. MJ’s powerful story of losing and rediscovering her inner voice. (11:00) - What is the "gentle whisper" and how do you learn to hear it? (20:27) - How to know if it’s your gut instinct or just fear holding you back. (29:27) - A new perspective on burnout that goes beyond your career. (41:05) - The "Wheel of Life": A practical exercise to find true balance. (48:01) - Why "Meaning" is the most important ingredient for success. (50:20) - The one thing you need to put on ice: other people’s opinions. Connect with Dr MJ Website (here you can also join the waitlist for the new program) heydrmj.com Instagram: @heydrmj Link to the Wheel of Life Journal LinkedIn You Can also listen to Dr MJs full Oxford talk here - watched by over 1 million viewers Connect with Claire You can find out more about how Brand Mixology works on our website www.brandmixology.co and connect with Claire on LinkedIn.

    57 min
  6. Stop Chasing Approval and Start Building a Life You Actually Want

    11/21/2025

    Stop Chasing Approval and Start Building a Life You Actually Want

    Are you building a business that feels truly aligned with who you are? Or do you feel a disconnect between your personal brand and your inner self? In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Suzanne Davison, a relationships coach and therapist, who shares her powerful journey of rediscovering her own identity and aligning it with her business. We dive deep into the importance of personal branding and authenticity, exploring how a strong relationship with self is the foundation for both personal and professional success. Suzanne explains why so many entrepreneurs chase external validation and how to break free from the cycle of overcoming approval seeking. Suzanne introduces her fascinating personality profiling system, which uses four shapes (hearts, squares, diamonds, and circles) to help us understand ourselves and others better. By understanding personality types, we can improve our relationships at home and at work, fostering better communication and reducing conflict. This episode is packed with actionable advice on how to achieve business and personal life alignment, set healthy boundaries, and let go of the guilt that so often holds us back. If you’ve ever felt like you’re climbing a mountain without knowing what’s at the top, or if you’re ready to build a brand and a life that feel genuinely you, this conversation is a must-listen. We discuss practical strategies for self-discovery, the power of defining your values, and how to create a life filled with peace, freedom, and joy, rather than burnout and exhaustion. Tune in to learn how to stop chasing external approval and start building a life and business that are in true alignment with your authentic self. Connect with us Take Suzanne’s Personality Quiz Work with Suzanne Check out Claire's website Connect with Claire Key Moment Timestamps: (01:15) - The danger of building a brand that isn’t you. (05:50) - The power of a values exercise to align your business with your life. (10:45) - Why we chase external validation and how it stems from childhood. (16:30) - How to prevent burnout by defining what a successful life looks like to you. (26:20) - Understanding the four personality types (hearts, squares, diamonds, circles) to improve relationships. (38:30) - Letting go of ‘mum guilt’ and embracing a career you love. (43:50) - The top ingredient for success: Balance. Take Suzanne’s Personality Quiz Work with Suzanne

    46 min
  7. The Ultimate Business Exit Strategy to Maximise Your Freedom

    10/31/2025

    The Ultimate Business Exit Strategy to Maximise Your Freedom

    Are you building a business or just a high-stress job for yourself? Many entrepreneurs fall into the trap of creating a company that is completely dependent on them, limiting their freedom and the business's true potential. This episode tackles the critical topic of creating a robust business exit strategy, not as an end goal, but as a foundational mindset for building a scalable and valuable asset from day one. Join Claire as she chats with Christine Nicholson, a four-time Business Mentor of the Year, who shares her wealth of experience in guiding founders away from owner dependency and towards true entrepreneurial freedom. Christine unpacks the three crucial exits every business owner must navigate, revealing why thinking about your exit from the very beginning is the key to long-term success and a healthier work-life balance. She shares powerful stories, including a tragic example of what happens when succession planning is ignored, and provides a clear framework for reducing your business’s reliance on you. In this conversation, you'll learn why your entrepreneurial mindset might be the very thing holding your business back and how to shift it. Christine provides actionable advice on delegation, process implementation, and understanding your business's real value. This isn't just about selling your company; it's about building a business that can thrive without you, giving you the ultimate freedom to choose your future. Ready to stop being a prisoner in your own business? Tune in to discover how to build a company that serves you, not the other way around. Find all resources mentioned and connect with Christine below. Guest Website: [Christine's Website Link]Guest LinkedIn: [Christine's LinkedIn Profile]Your Podcast Website: [Your Podcast Link]Mentioned Book - Marianne Page: Simple, Logical, RepeatableMentioned Book - Christine Nicholson: Sell It & How to Successfully Sell Your Business c) Key Moment Timestamps: (02:03) - What is a Business Exit? (It's Not Just About Selling) (07:59) - The Tragic Story of Trevor: Why Every Owner Needs an Exit Plan (17:21) - Stalactites vs. Stalagmites: Are You Building Dependency or Empowerment? (28:40) - When Should You Start Your Exit Planning? (The Answer May Surprise You) (32:39) - The Power of Process to Reduce Owner Dependency (42:41) - 3 Actionable Tips for Established Business Owners (44:04) - 3 Crucial Pieces of Advice for Startups More About Christine You can find out more about Christine on her website https://christinenicholson.co.uk/ and connect with her on LinkedIn. More About Brand Mixology You can find out more about how Brand Mixology works on our website www.brandmixology.co and connect with Claire on a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamclairemarshall/" rel="noopener...

    1 hr
  8. The 'Watch Me' Attitude: Back Yourself and Get Paid To Speak

    10/17/2025

    The 'Watch Me' Attitude: Back Yourself and Get Paid To Speak

    Have you ever considered turning your expertise into a professional speaking career? Many people dream of sharing their message on stage but get stuck on how to start, how to get paid, and how to do it authentically. It’s a journey filled with challenges, from overcoming the fear of not being “expert enough” to navigating the industry’s unwritten rules. The path from simply speaking in public to building a profitable, impactful career as a professional speaker requires more than just a good story; it demands strategy, resilience, and a powerful mindset. In this episode, we are joined by Elliot Kay, a leading authority in the professional speaking world. After a significant career pivot from professional dancing due to injury, Elliot discovered the world of coaching and speaking, eventually building a platform that champions and develops speakers. He shares his incredible journey and unpacks the crucial distinction between public speaking and a professional speaking career, offering invaluable public speaking tips for anyone looking to make their voice heard and get paid for it. Elliot introduces his powerful “Watch Me Attitude,” a non-permissive leadership concept that has fuelled his success and can help you break through self-doubt. We discuss the importance of authentic leadership on stage, why imperfection is a currency, and how to structure your talks for maximum confidence and impact. Elliot provides a clear roadmap for aspiring speakers, covering everything from how to get started to the mindset required to handle the inevitable challenges of the industry. This conversation is a masterclass for anyone ready to stop being busy and start being productive in their pursuit of a speaking career. Tune in to learn how to simplify your approach, embrace your unique journey, and build a successful and professional speaking career with authenticity and confidence. Find out more about Elliot’s work at [Insert Guest Link] and get more resources on our website at [Insert Your Main Podcast Link]. c) Key Moment Timestamps: (02:15) - The Unexpected Journey: From Professional Dancer to Speaker (13:06) - The Key Difference: Public Speaking vs. Professional Speaking (17:37) - The Mindset Hack: Why You Must Start Before You’re Ready (25:46) - The Speaker’s Craft: How to Practice Authentically Without a Script (33:07) - The First Step: Actionable Advice for Aspiring Paid Speakers (35:57) - The Power of Defiance: Unpacking the ‘Watch Me’ Attitude (42:19) - The Recipe for Success: Why ‘Simple’ is the Key Ingredient More About Elliot You can find out more about Elliot on his website https://www.elliotkay.com and book a call with him here https://tidycal.com/mnyxkx3/connectioncalltalks More about Brand Mixology You can find out more about how Brand Mixology work on our website www.brandmixology.co and connect with me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamclairemarshall/

    45 min
  9. ‘A Series of Charming Apologies’: ADHD, Creativity & Entrepreneurship

    10/17/2025

    ‘A Series of Charming Apologies’: ADHD, Creativity & Entrepreneurship

    Do you ever feel like your brain is a whirlwind of brilliant ideas, but you struggle with the focus to see them through? For many creative entrepreneurs, this is a daily reality. The very traits that fuel innovation can also lead to procrastination, a lack of consistency, and a life filled with what this week’s guest calls ‘a series of charming apologies’. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the complex world of ADHD and entrepreneurship. This week, Claire is joined by Dan Chaput de Saintonge, a fellow entrepreneur and founder of a successful content studio who received his ADD diagnosis in his thirties. Together, they pull back the curtain on the real, unfiltered experience of running a business when your brain is wired differently. They explore how to harness ADHD superpowers like hyper-focus and rapid idea generation, while also building systems and teams to manage the challenges. It’s a candid conversation about self-awareness, the power of delegation, and why building a team with complementary skills is non-negotiable for sustainable success. Dan shares his personal journey, from the lightbulb moment that led to his diagnosis to the realisation that the ‘go it alone’ mentality can be a trap for the creative mind. This episode isn’t just for those with a diagnosis; it’s for any business owner who has ever felt like they don’t quite fit the traditional mould. You’ll learn why passion is the ultimate anchor in creative entrepreneurship and how embracing neurodiversity in business can unlock a new level of growth and fulfilment. Ready to turn your perceived weaknesses into your greatest strengths? Listen to the full episode now. (02:12) - The Stop-Start Journey: Finding a career that fits a neurodivergent brain. (07:15) - The Relief of a Diagnosis: How getting answers changes everything. (10:30) - When Your Superpower Isn’t Enough: The challenges of scaling a business as a creative. (14:18) - The Mistake of Hiring in Your Own Image: Why you need to build a team of opposites. (25:04) - ‘A Series of Charming Apologies’: The story behind the episode title. (40:50) - The Anchor of Passion: The single most important ingredient for the ADHD entrepreneur. (42:31) - On Ice: Debunking the myth of the solo entrepreneur. Find out more about Dan https://knockknockhq.com/ Find out more about Claire and Brand Mixology www.brandmixology.co

    49 min
  10. The Truth About AI In Content Creation

    10/17/2025

    The Truth About AI In Content Creation

    Is AI a threat or an opportunity for creators? In this episode, Claire is joined by David Brown, a media expert and podcast producer, to explore the real impact of AI in content creation. David shares his journey from data analytics to the world of podcasting, a pivot sparked by the surge of AI. We delve into how artificial intelligence is reshaping the creative landscape, particularly in video marketing and podcast production. Discover the surprising truth about where AI excels and where the human touch remains irreplaceable. David argues that while AI can be a powerful tool for efficiency, the heart of compelling content lies in authentic storytelling in business. We discuss the common pitfalls of over-relying on AI and how to strike the right balance to create content that truly connects with your audience. Learn how to leverage AI in marketing to streamline your workflow, from generating ideas to repurposing content, without sacrificing the personality that makes your brand unique. This conversation is packed with actionable insights for any business owner or content creator looking to navigate the age of AI. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just starting, you'll walk away with a clearer understanding of how to use AI to your advantage. Tune in to the full episode to learn more about the future of content creation. Key Moment Timestamps (00:00:47) - From Data Analytics to Podcasting: David's Unexpected Pivot (00:03:50) - The Real Impact of AI on Creative Industries (00:14:53) - Storytelling vs. Quality: What Matters More in Video? (00:21:42) - How to Use AI to Generate Better Content Ideas (00:32:30) - The Power of In-Person Connection in a Digital World (00:41:28) - The Secret to Achieving Your Biggest Goals (00:47:35) - The One Word That Defines Success in Business Connect with us: David Orion Studios https://www.orionstudios.uk/ With Ai FM - here's the direct link https://spotify.link/zZmOlUBdxXb. Connect with David on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/4dmbrown/ Claire Website www.brandmixology.co LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamclairemarshall/

    54 min
  • 10 Episodes

About

I’m Claire Marshall — brand strategist, creative thinker, and host of Brand Mixology. This podcast is all about shaking up the rules of success and finding your own mix of what works. Each episode, I sit down with founders, creatives, and experts to explore the ingredients that go into building a brand - and a life - you actually want. You’ll hear real stories of growth and reinvention, alongside practical insights into strategy, psychology, identity, and innovation. We dig into what makes brands truly unique, and what it takes to build one that stands the test of time. Every guest adds one success ingredient to the mix… and puts one thing they’re ready to leave on ice. Because there’s no single formula for success — just your unique blend of ideas, action, and behaviours. I can't wait to share these conversations with you!

Information

  • Creator
    Claire Marshall
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Claire Marshall