Behind The Brand

Moxie Creative
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Updated Weekly

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. 4d ago

    From Biology Lab to Wedding Photographer: Kiarra Stommes' Entrepreneurial Journey

    Takeaways Turning a creative passion into a full-time business requires persistence, adaptability, and a willingness to learn.Success in photography is about much more than taking photos. Client communication, marketing, editing, and systems matter just as much.Community and networking can create opportunities that would never happen otherwise.Creative entrepreneurs often work far beyond traditional business hours.Growth comes from continually learning, evolving, and improving your craft.In this episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor and Kelly sit down with Kiarra Stommes, owner of Kiarra Rae Photography, to discuss her journey from studying biology and working in a laboratory to building a successful photography business. Kiarra shares how a camera purchase with her brother unexpectedly opened the door to a career in photography after her cousin invited her to assist with client sessions and weddings. What started as a hobby quickly became a side business, eventually growing into a full-time career. The conversation explores the realities of entrepreneurship, including managing clients, marketing, editing, systems, and balancing the many responsibilities that come with running a creative business. Kiarra also discusses her documentary-style photography approach, the importance of authentic client relationships, and why she values community over competition. Whether you're a photographer, creative professional, or aspiring entrepreneur, this episode offers practical insights into building a business around something you genuinely love. Key Topics Covered: Kiarra's transition from biology graduate to photographerLearning photography through mentorshipBuilding Kiarra Rae PhotographyGoing from side hustle to full-time entrepreneurWedding photography and client experienceDocumentary-style photographyManaging business operations behind the scenesSetting boundaries as a business ownerThe importance of networking and referralsCommunity versus competition in creative industriesLessons learned from entrepreneurshipGrowth, mentorship, and continuous learningYoutube: 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

    26 min

  2. Jun 17

    Why Q4 Winners Are Actually Decided in July

    Download the Checklist: https://moxiecreative.com/blog/why-q4-winners-make-their-moves-in-july/ Takeaways Q4 success doesn't start in October — it starts in summer. Businesses that wait until fall to launch campaigns, redesign websites, or start digital ads are setting themselves up for missed opportunities and under-optimized results.Digital marketing takes time to work. Ads need weeks to optimize, websites take two to four months to build, and competitive research doesn't happen overnight. The earlier you start, the stronger your results.Summer is the perfect window to audit the first half of your year — what worked, what didn't, and what you never got around to. A clear mid-year review sets you up for a focused, momentum-building second half.Summary of the episode Every fall, businesses panic. Leads dry up, the year is almost over, and suddenly everyone wants a new website, a digital ad campaign, and a full rebrand — by January 1st. In this episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor and Kelly of Moxie Creative break down why that Q4 scramble is almost always avoidable, and why the businesses that consistently crush the fourth quarter started planning months earlier than you'd expect. The conversation starts with a very Minnesota observation: business owners check out in the summer. They go to the cabin, they soak up the short warm season, and marketing gets pushed to the back burner. But while you're on vacation, your marketing can't be. Taylor and Kelly explain that by the time September rolls around, there simply isn't enough runway to launch and optimize a campaign that will produce real results before the year ends. Kelly walks through the practical timeline. Digital ad campaigns need two to three months to gather data and optimize. Websites take four months or more from start to launch. If your goal is to be visible and converting in October, you need to be in conversations with your agency in June or July — not Labor Day. The team at Moxie Creative isn't just order-takers; they do competitive analysis, strategy, and consultation before a single ad goes live. That process takes time, and it's the process that makes the difference. The episode closes with a concrete action step: Moxie has published a free mid-year checklist at moxiecreative.com that walks you through reviewing what worked in the first half of the year and identifying your one or two biggest priorities for the second half. You don't have to have it all figured out. You just have to start. Key Topics Covered: Why Q4 marketing success is determined in the summer, not the fallThe real timeline for digital ad campaigns, website builds, and brand initiativesHow the "summer slowdown" mentality hurts small business marketing resultsWhat it means to work with a full-service agency vs. an order-takerHow to use a mid-year marketing audit to set priorities for Q3 and Q4Moxie Creative's free mid-year marketing checklist and how to use itWhy starting before you know exactly what you want still puts you ahead Website: www.moxiecreative.com

    14 min

  3. Jun 10

    Why Finding the Right Career Fit Changes Everything with Laura Hartog of Bad Habit Brewing

    Takeaways Career alignment matters more than staying comfortableGrowth often starts when you allow yourself to explore changeStrong businesses survive by staying connected to communityWhat happens when the career path you've spent years building no longer feels right? In this episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor and Kelly sit down with Laura Hartog, Managing Director of Bad Habit Brewing Company, to discuss career pivots, burnout, leadership, workplace culture, and building businesses centered around community. Laura shares how she transitioned from a long career in marketing and education into brewery leadership, what pushed her to make a difficult career change, and how finding the right fit professionally transformed both her work and personal life. The conversation also dives into what makes Bad Habit Brewing successful in an increasingly competitive craft beverage market, why community matters more than product alone, and what modern leadership really looks like. Key Topics Covered: Career pivots and recognizing misalignmentBurnout and protecting your mental healthLeadership lessons from managing teamsBuilding businesses around communityMarketing and branding in craft beverage industriesHow Bad Habit Brewing is evolving in a changing marketCreating company cultures people genuinely loveYoutube: 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

  4. Jun 3

    What Really Happens When You Hire a Marketing Agency

    Takeaways Why free discovery meetings are critical to building better marketing strategiesHow great agencies uncover what clients actually need versus what they think they needWhy trust and communication are the foundation of successful client partnershipsWhen people think about marketing agencies, they often picture logos, websites, social media posts, and creative campaigns. But behind every creative decision is something much bigger: strategy. In this episode, Taylor and Kelly pull back the curtain on what actually happens when someone reaches out to work with a marketing agency. From discovery calls and first meetings to proposals and long-term partnerships, they explain why great marketing starts with understanding people, business goals, and solving the right problems. They also tackle common misconceptions about agencies, explain why pricing is rarely one-size-fits-all, and share what small business owners should really expect when exploring a marketing partnership. Key Topics Covered: What happens during a first marketing agency meetingWhy agencies need strategy before quoting pricingCommon misconceptions about agency partnershipsWhy trust matters more than tacticsThe proposal and onboarding processHow agencies uncover what businesses actually need 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

    19 min

  5. May 27

    Building Community Through Hospitality and Historic Spaces with Casey Austin

    Takeaways Career pivots can lead to opportunities that feel more aligned than the original plan.Community involvement and networking create unexpected professional opportunities.Foley Mansion is redefining event experiences by blending history, hospitality, and memorable moments.Summary of the Episode In this episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor and Kelly sit down with Casey Austin, Director of Operations at Foley Mansion, to talk about career transitions, community connection, and creating unforgettable experiences. Casey shares her unconventional career journey from earning a degree in early childhood education and teaching preschool to working in banking, nonprofit leadership, and ultimately stepping into her current role leading one of Central Minnesota’s most unique event venues. They dive into the fascinating history behind Foley Mansion, the restoration of the historic property after a devastating fire, and how Casey is helping shape the next chapter of the venue through events, hospitality, and community engagement. The conversation also explores the importance of networking, embracing unexpected opportunities, and having the courage to take the next step even when the path forward feels uncertain. Key Topics Covered: Casey Austin’s career journey and unexpected pivotsLessons learned from teaching and community leadershipThe history and restoration of Foley MansionBuilding a hospitality experience people rememberWhy networking and chamber involvement matterCareer growth through relationships and referralsHosting unforgettable events and experiencesAdvice for navigating career transitionsYoutube: 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

    26 min

  6. May 20

    Why Blogging Still Matters for SEO in 2026

    Takeaways Blogging directly improves SEO by creating more indexed pages and keyword opportunities.Strategic blog content helps businesses rank for customer questions and search intent.Modern SEO requires ongoing website updates, internal linking, and content structure.Businesses that consistently blog build stronger authority and long-term organic visibility.AI and evolving search behavior are changing how websites should be built and optimized.In this episode of Behind the Brand, Kelly and Taylor from Moxie Creative dive deep into why blogging still matters and how it directly impacts SEO in today’s digital landscape. They unpack the evolution of search engine optimization, how AI is changing search behavior, and why static websites are no longer enough to stay competitive online. From cornerstone blog strategies and internal linking to Google Analytics insights and customer-driven content ideas, this episode breaks down practical ways businesses can improve online visibility through blogging. Kelly also shares behind-the-scenes insights from rebuilding a client’s blog strategy from the ground up, including lessons learned about content structure, SEO organization, and why “more blogs” does not always equal better results. If your business has struggled with SEO, online visibility, or knowing what to write about, this episode offers actionable insights to help you rethink your content strategy. Key Topics Covered: Why blogging improves SEOHow blogs create more opportunities to rank on GoogleThe role of cornerstone content and internal linkingHow AI is changing SEO and online search behaviorWhy businesses need ongoing website optimizationCommon mistakes businesses make with bloggingBlog content ideas for small businessesThe relationship between blogging, authority, and trustWhy consistency matters more than perfectionThe future of SEO strategy for service businessesYoutube: 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

    25 min

  7. May 13

    How Jeremy Salzbrun Turned H&S Heating and Air Conditioning Into a Community Powerhouse

    Takeaways Why trades careers can create incredible financial opportunities without traditional college debtHow Jeremy Salzbrun transformed H&S Heating and Air into a service-first business during the recessionThe importance of community involvement and relationship marketing for local businessesIn this episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor and Kelly from Moxie Creative sit down with Jeremy Salzbrun, second-generation owner of H&S Heating and Air Conditioning. Jeremy shares the story behind the family business, how he purchased the company during the recession, and what it takes to grow a trusted HVAC brand in Central Minnesota. The conversation dives into family business dynamics, entrepreneurship, trades careers, leadership, community involvement, and the importance of building strong customer relationships. Jeremy also opens up about balancing business ownership with family life, raising a son who may become the third generation in the business, and why serving people during difficult moments gives his work deeper meaning. From lessons learned in the trades to scaling multiple businesses and creating a lasting legacy, this episode is packed with honest insight and practical wisdom for entrepreneurs and small business owners alike. Key Topics Covered: Growing up in a family-owned HVAC businessTaking over H&S Heating and Air during the recessionThe value of skilled trades careersBuilding a service-first company cultureMarketing strategies for local businessesExpanding through acquisitions and new service divisionsFamily business succession planningLeadership, faith, and community impactCreating long-term business growth through relationships 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

    40 min

  8. May 6

    Why Google Reviews Matter More Than You Think for Small Business Growth

    Takeaways Google reviews heavily influence customer decisions before they contact your businessConsistently asking for reviews is key to maintaining a strong online reputationResponding to both positive and negative reviews improves credibility and SEOBefore a customer ever calls, clicks, or walks through your door, they’ve likely already formed an opinion about your business based on your Google reviews. In this episode of Behind the Brand, Taylor and Kelly break down why reviews are one of the most powerful yet underutilized tools in your marketing strategy. They explore how reviews impact SEO, influence buying behavior, and even affect your Google Quality Score. The conversation also dives into practical strategies for getting more reviews, handling negative feedback professionally, and building a consistent system that works for your business. If you’ve been ignoring your Google reviews or aren’t sure how to leverage them effectively, this episode gives you a clear, actionable roadmap. Key Topics Covered: Why 90% of consumers read reviews before choosing a businessHow Google reviews impact SEO and visibilityThe role of social proof in buying decisionsSimple ways to consistently collect more reviewsBest practices for responding to positive and negative feedbackWhy you don’t need a perfect 5-star ratingYoutube: 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

    21 min
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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

Information

  • Creator
    Moxie Creative
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    71
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Moxie Creative 2025
  • Show Website
    Behind The Brand