Behind The Brand

Moxie Creative

Welcome to Behind the Brand, a podcast for small business owners, solopreneurs, and aspiring entrepreneurs who are ready to start strong, stand out, and stay bold. Hosted by the powerhouse marketers behind Moxie Creative, this podcast offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build and grow a memorable brand. With over 30 years of experience helping businesses grow, we share bold moves, real-life client transformations, and actionable lessons you can apply to your own business. Hear directly from our clients as we peel back the layers of their brands to reveal the bold decisions that helped them overcome challenges, grow their businesses, and stay ahead of the curve. We’re here to inspire you to think big, take risks, and be bold. Let’s get started—your next big idea is just a listen-away. Stay connected with us! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@wearemoxiecreative Facebook https://www.facebook.com/wearemoxiecreative Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wearemoxiecreative/ Behance https://www.behance.net/moxiecreative LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearemoxiecreative www.moxiecreative.com

  1. 2D AGO

    From Team Member to Emerging Leader: Taylor’s Award-Winning Journey

    Takeaways Leadership growth often happens when responsibility, ownership, and opportunity finally align.Mentorship can completely change the trajectory of a marketing career.Showing up consistently in your industry and local community creates momentum over time.In this special episode of Behind the Brand, Kelly turns the mic around and interviews Taylor after she is named the 2026 Emerging Leader by the American Advertising Federation of Central Minnesota. Together, they unpack what the award means, the career milestones that led to it, and the role mentorship, community involvement, and agency leadership played in Taylor’s journey. The conversation is honest, funny, emotional, and full of insight for marketers, creatives, and young professionals navigating their own path. Key Topics Covered: What the Emerging Leader award represents in the advertising and marketing industryTaylor’s journey from college ad involvement to industry recognitionHow helping build Moxie shaped her growth as a leaderThe power of mentorship and why it matters in creative careersAdvice for young professionals trying to stand out in a competitive job marketThe importance of networking, industry events, and community involvementWhat leadership looks like inside a creative agencyWhy this award is a milestone, not the finish lineYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@wearemoxiecreative Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearemoxiecreative Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearemoxiecreative/ Behance: https://www.behance.net/moxiecreative LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearemoxiecreative Website: www.moxiecreative.com

    38 min
  2. APR 1

    Launching Return to Joy: A Christ-Centered Coaching Brand With Heart

    akeaways Kim Johnson shares how her personal healing journey inspired the launch of Return to Joy Coaching.This episode explores trauma, grief, identity loss, and the power of faith-centered transformation.Kim explains how her 12-month coaching program helps women heal, rebuild, and rediscover joy.In this episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor and Kelly from Moxie Creative sit down with Kim Johnson, founder of Return to Joy Coaching, to talk about the story behind her Christ-centered coaching business. Kim opens up about walking through trauma and grief, losing her sense of identity, and finding healing through faith, coaching, and deep personal transformation. What started as a phrase written in a notebook during a painful season eventually became the name and mission of her business. Kim shares how attending a trauma seminar and later completing formal coaching training confirmed her calling to help women heal from hard things. She explains her 12-month coaching and discipleship program, the role of prayer in her work, and why unresolved trauma can affect every part of a person’s life. The conversation also covers identity, emotional healing, movement as a tool for release, and the importance of having someone walk beside you through grief and restoration. Key Topics Covered: The origin story behind Return to Joy CoachingHealing from trauma and grief through faith and supportIdentity loss during difficult life seasonsKim’s Christ-centered approach to coaching and discipleshipThe structure of her 12-month coaching programWhy trauma can live in the body if left unaddressedThe importance of support, empathy, and being seenOne-on-one coaching options for women not ready for a full programBuilding a purpose-driven business from personal testimonyLaunching a meaningful brand rooted in transformationYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@wearemoxiecreative Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearemoxiecreative Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearemoxiecreative/ Behance: https://www.behance.net/moxiecreative LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearemoxiecreative Website: www.moxiecreative.com

    27 min
  3. MAR 25

    What We Learned From One Year of Consistent Podcasting

    Takeaways Podcasting can be a powerful marketing tool for small businesses looking to build authority, improve SEO, and create consistent content.Behind the Brand has helped Moxie Creative strengthen client relationships, showcase its personality, and connect more deeply with the local business community.Year two will focus on smarter content repurposing, stronger guest planning, and continuing to highlight the people and businesses shaping St. Cloud.In this special anniversary episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor, Kelly, and Macki from Moxie Creative reflect on one full year of podcasting and what the experience has taught them about branding, marketing, consistency, and community. The team shares why they started the podcast, how it has supported their small business marketing strategy, and the unexpected ways it has helped them grow stronger client relationships and build local connections. They also talk candidly about the realities of creating content while running a busy agency, what has surprised them most over the past year, and how the podcast has evolved from a simple content idea into one of their favorite creative and strategic tools. If you are a small business owner, entrepreneur, or marketer considering podcasting as part of your brand strategy, this episode offers honest insight and practical inspiration. Key Topics Covered: Celebrating one year of Behind the BrandWhy Moxie Creative started a podcastHow podcasting supports SEO and content marketingUsing a business podcast to build authority and visibilityStrengthening client relationships through conversation-based contentThe value of showcasing personality and approachability in brandingLessons learned from staying consistent with content creationRepurposing podcast episodes for YouTube, Pinterest, blogs, and social mediaSupporting and spotlighting the St. Cloud small business communityGoals and ideas for year two of the podcastYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@wearemoxiecreative Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearemoxiecreative Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearemoxiecreative/ Behance: https://www.behance.net/moxiecreative LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearemoxiecreative Website: www.moxiecreative.com

    20 min
  4. MAR 18

    Battle of the Bands, B-Side, and the Future of Live Music in Central Minnesota

    Takeaways Project 37 is creating safe, sober, all-ages live music spaces in Central Minnesota.B-Side Indie Music Cafe serves as both a nonprofit coffee shop and a community-centered music venue in downtown St. Cloud.Battle of the Bands helps raise funds, spotlight young musicians, and support the future growth of the local music scene.In this episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor and Kelly from Moxie Creative sit down with John Schulte to talk about Project 37, B-Side Indie Music Cafe, and the power of building community through music. John shares his journey from hockey player to lifelong musician, drum instructor, and advocate for young artists in St. Cloud, Minnesota. The conversation explores how Project 37 began, why safe and sober all-ages music spaces matter, and how the organization built momentum by hosting shows throughout the community before opening B-Side. John also discusses the importance of giving teens and young musicians a place to perform, connect, and be part of something meaningful beyond a screen. Taylor, Kelly, and John also dive into Project 37’s annual Battle of the Bands fundraiser, which supports the organization’s mission and helps fund future improvements like a kitchen at B-Side. This episode is a powerful look at nonprofit leadership, local music advocacy, youth opportunity, and what it takes to create a thriving creative community in Central Minnesota. Key Topics Covered: John Schulte’s background in music and music educationThe mission and growth of Project 37How B-Side Indie Music Cafe serves the St. Cloud communityThe value of safe, sober, all-ages music venuesSupporting local artists with fair pay and better performance experiencesBattle of the Bands and fundraising for future growthBuilding community through music, creativity, and connectionYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@wearemoxiecreative Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearemoxiecreative Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearemoxiecreative/ Behance: https://www.behance.net/moxiecreative LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearemoxiecreative Website: www.moxiecreative.com

    29 min
  5. MAR 11

    How Tourism Marketing Drives Economic Growth in Greater St. Cloud

    Takeaways Tourism marketing supports far more than travel. It contributes to local business success and regional economic growth.Convention and Visitors Bureaus play a strategic role in attracting events, promoting community assets, and shaping destination perception.Strong storytelling and digital strategy help communities compete, grow, and create lasting engagement.In this episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor and Kelly from Moxie Creative sit down with Rachel Thompson, Executive Director of Visit Greater St. Cloud, to explore the broader impact of tourism marketing. The conversation unpacks what a Convention and Visitors Bureau actually does, how destination organizations support business and community growth, and why marketing strategy matters in building a region people want to visit, invest in, and experience. The episode also touches on the importance of digital presence, including the recent Visit Greater St. Cloud website redesign, and how storytelling shapes regional competitiveness. Key Topics Covered: Visit Greater St. Cloud and its role in the regionWhat a Convention and Visitors Bureau doesTourism’s connection to economic growthEvent attraction and regional promotionSupporting local businesses through destination marketingWebsite strategy for visitors and event plannersStorytelling as a tool for community brandingHow digital marketing helps regions compete and growYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@wearemoxiecreative Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearemoxiecreative Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearemoxiecreative/ Behance: https://www.behance.net/moxiecreative LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearemoxiecreative Website: www.moxiecreative.com

    41 min
  6. MAR 4

    Lead Generation Marketing for Small Business: What Works (and What Doesn’t)

    Takeaways Brand awareness builds recognition and trust; lead generation drives action like calls, form fills, and bookings.Lead gen works best when your owned media is solid: brand clarity, website UX, social presence, and email marketing.Paid search (Google Ads/PPC) is a bidding system—strategy, keywords, and geography determine efficiency and cost per lead.Marketing gets lumped together, but Taylor and Kelly explain why that mindset causes frustration and wasted ad spend. In this episode, they break down how brand awareness and lead generation serve different roles, why your website must be conversion-ready before you pay to drive traffic, and how modern lead generation works through paid search, landing pages, and data-driven optimization. They also cover why business owners often don’t see their own ads, why you shouldn’t click your own campaigns, and how tightening geo targeting can improve lead quality and reduce budget without sacrificing results. Key Topics Covered: Brand awareness vs lead generation: what each is designed to doOwned media essentials: brand, website, social, emailWebsite conversion blockers: confusing journeys and high-friction formsLanding pages and why they often outperform full websites for lead genPaid search basics: keyword groups, bidding, and industry cost differencesUsing data to optimize: casting a wide net, then narrowing by locationDirectory listings and Google Business Profile consistency (NAP + credibility)Why “Googling yourself” doesn’t prove your ads are working Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wearemoxiecreative Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearemoxiecreative Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearemoxiecreative/ Behance: https://www.behance.net/moxiecreative LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearemoxiecreative Website: www.moxiecreative.com

    30 min
  7. FEB 25

    How to Rebrand a Legacy Business Without Losing Loyal Customers with Jake Neu from Legacy Upfitters

    Takeaways Rebranding a legacy business is as much about customer education as it is design.Leaving a franchise can unlock pricing freedom, product flexibility, and stronger customization.Start your rebrand early—there are always more details than you expect (signage, print, photos, vendor assets).Family businesses thrive when roles are clear and compromise is built into decision-making.Team culture matters: pay fairly, avoid micromanagement, and treat employees like people.Jake Neu joins Taylor and Mo to share the 25-year journey of what’s now Legacy Upfitters—from a spray-on bedliner shop to a full-service vehicle customization destination. Jake breaks down why the company chose to step away from a franchise brand, how they handled the rebrand rollout, and what surprised them most: the community’s strong support for a locally owned, independent identity. He also shares lessons on working with family, building a strong team, and why clear goals are the key to long-term growth. Key Topics Covered: Legacy Upfitters’ origin story and expansion beyond bedlinersWhy they outgrew their franchise model and what independence changedRebranding challenges: customer perceptions, product assumptions, and communicationThe “hidden checklist” of a rebrand (signs, billboards, print, interior assets)Family business dynamics and decision-making with polar-opposite leadership stylesHiring, retention, and creating a culture that keeps great employeesRapid-fire advice: goals, respect, communication, and long-term relationshipsYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@wearemoxiecreative Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearemoxiecreative Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearemoxiecreative/ Behance: https://www.behance.net/moxiecreative LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearemoxiecreative Website: www.moxiecreative.com

    29 min
  8. FEB 18

    Why Podcasting Works for Small Businesses in 2026

    Takeaways Podcasting isn’t “too saturated”—your lived experience and stories are what make your show stand out.Most podcasts quit because creators underestimate the behind-the-scenes work; consistency is the real secret.Milestones matter: many shows drop off after episode 7, and reaching episode 20 often signals long-term success.A podcast builds trust before the sales call, helping prospects feel connected and confident in working with you.You don’t need a big studio—start with what you have, and consider a 10-min micro-podcast to build momentum.Podcast producer Abbey Graves returns to Behind the Brand to talk with Taylor from Moxie Creative about why podcasting is still a smart marketing move heading into 2026—especially for small businesses and local brands. They unpack the myth of “oversaturation,” the real reason most podcasts fail, and what it takes to create a sustainable show that supports your business goals. They also discuss how podcasting builds familiarity with prospective clients, why video matters for repurposing, and how even short-form “micro-podcasting” can be a powerful (and budget-friendly) place to start. Key Topics Covered: The current podcasting landscape and why adding video supports repurposingWhy podcasts fail (and the behind-the-scenes work most people don’t expect)The episode 7 and episode 20 milestones for podcast consistencyPodcasting as a marketing tool: social clips, blogs, newsletters, website SEOUsing podcasting to build trust and connection with prospective clientsStarting small: micro-podcasts and creating with whatever gear you have Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@wearemoxiecreative Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wearemoxiecreative Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearemoxiecreative/ Behance: https://www.behance.net/moxiecreative LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearemoxiecreative Website: www.moxiecreative.com

    22 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

Welcome to Behind the Brand, a podcast for small business owners, solopreneurs, and aspiring entrepreneurs who are ready to start strong, stand out, and stay bold. Hosted by the powerhouse marketers behind Moxie Creative, this podcast offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to build and grow a memorable brand. With over 30 years of experience helping businesses grow, we share bold moves, real-life client transformations, and actionable lessons you can apply to your own business. Hear directly from our clients as we peel back the layers of their brands to reveal the bold decisions that helped them overcome challenges, grow their businesses, and stay ahead of the curve. We’re here to inspire you to think big, take risks, and be bold. Let’s get started—your next big idea is just a listen-away. Stay connected with us! Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@wearemoxiecreative Facebook https://www.facebook.com/wearemoxiecreative Instagram https://www.instagram.com/wearemoxiecreative/ Behance https://www.behance.net/moxiecreative LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/wearemoxiecreative www.moxiecreative.com