FiredUp! - The Startup Marketing Podcast

Firebrand

FiredUp! is the show for marketers working in early and late-stage startups. Each week, we walk through fresh strategies and tactics to build brand and drive demand for your startup. Featuring interviews with marketing leaders, our take on the latest trends, and practical tips about PR, content marketing and growth marketing, we promise plenty of signal with some noisy fun along the way. FiredUp! is hosted by the team at startup marketing agency, Firebrand. Learn more at firebrand.marketing today. 

  1. Why GEO is a Team Sport

    6D AGO

    Why GEO is a Team Sport

    As AI tools become a gatekeeper to your brand's visibility, a traditional SEO strategy is no longer enough. On this episode of FiredUp!, the team dives into generative engine optimization (GEO) and explains why it's a team sport. We unpack what geo is, its different citation sources, and how to align your PR, content, and SEO teams to improve your rankings and maximize your AI search impact. This week, episode 107 of the FiredUp! podcast is about why GEO is a team sport!  Download the Multiplier Marketing Megapack today. Exclusive offer for all our listeners — get all our Startup Guides in one go! Over 50 pages of advanced tips and advice that dive deep into content marketing, search advertising, and marketing attribution. In this episode of the FiredUp! podcast, the Firebrand team shares the importance of having all of your teams working together on GEO and actionable steps you can take right now to coordinate your efforts across your PR, content marketing, SEO, affiliate marketing, and influencer marketing teams. Morgan, Nicole, and Chris discuss: GEO as an extension of SEO: On-site optimizations you would normally do for SEO—like a fast site, quick loading times, and proper HTML markup—will also apply to geo.PR’s new crucial role: AI search tends to favor journalistic sources, with one report showing that 27% of LLM citations come from news publications. This means getting editorial placements is more important than ever for geo.How your competitors are shaping your brand's narrative: Competitors can influence AI's perception of your brand by publishing their own listicles and content that discusses your company.Why third-party validation is key: In addition to journalistic sources and owned content, roughly a third of citations come from third parties, including influencers, analysts, and review sites like G2 and Capterra. Think about your team. Are your SEO, PR, and content teams aligned on a geo strategy? Get everyone in a room to work out responsibilities and start tackling this new frontier together. Thank you for listening! Tune in to all the episodes for practical tips on crushing your startup marketing goals. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! CONNECT WITH FIREBRAND: Firebrand is a startup marketing agency. We help tech startups secure outsized marketing outcomes on their path to growth. Youtube LinkedIn X (Formerly Twitter) Work with Firebrand Apply to Be a Podcast Guest Send us a text

    33 min
  2. AI’s Role in Content Creation with Keith O’Brien

    SEP 18

    AI’s Role in Content Creation with Keith O’Brien

    Should we be utilizing AI in our content creation? While AI tools like ChatGPT can generate a blog post in seconds, many marketers and writers are questioning if the quality is worth the effort of editing. On this episode of FiredUp!, we explore the real-world implications of using AI for writing with former journalist and content strategist Keith O’Brien to unpack where AI excels, where it falls short, and the philosophical questions that come up along the way. This week, episode 106of the FiredUp! podcast is about AI’s role in content creation!  Download the Multiplier Marketing Megapack today. Exclusive offer for all our listeners — get all our Startup Guides in one go! Over 50 pages of advanced tips and advice that dive deep into content marketing, search advertising, and marketing attribution. In this episode of the FiredUp! podcast, Keith O’Brien shares his feelings and observations about using AI for writing and content creation and actionable steps you can take right now to experiment with AI in an ethical way.  Keith O’Brien is the Founder and Lead Consultant at Total Emphasis, a digital strategy and consulting organization providing primarily B2B content strategy, training, ghostwriting, and social media expertise to startups and established organizations in the finance, enterprise technology, IT, HR, and business consulting space. He also runs several newsletters: 141miles.com, a publication about the Jersey Shore, and The Diffraction, a music publication.  Keith, Morgan, and Nicole discuss: AI’s lack of quality and nuance when creating content.The pros and cons of utilizing AI for research.the role of human creativity in content creation and the unique value that human writers bring to the process.Think about your own content creation process. Where can you use AI to boost productivity without sacrificing quality or your own expertise? Share this episode with a colleague and subscribe to FiredUp! for more insights into the world of marketing and technology. Thank you for listening! Tune in to all the episodes for practical tips on crushing your startup marketing goals. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! CONNECT WITH KEITH: LinkedIn Total Emphasis CONNECT WITH FIREBRAND: Firebrand is a startup marketing agency. We help tech startups secure outsized marketing outcomes on their path to growth. Youtube LinkedIn X (Formerly Twitter) Work with Firebrand Apply to Be a Podcast Guest Send us a text

    45 min
  3. The AI Backlash Hits Marketing

    SEP 11

    The AI Backlash Hits Marketing

    The growing backlash against AI-generated content is finally hitting the marketing sphere. Is your marketing strategy feeling the effects? On this episode of FiredUp!, Morgan, Nicole, and Chris sit down to explore why marketers and B2B buyers are pushing back against the overuse of artificial intelligence in content creation, how use of AI is affecting brand reputation, and more.  This week, episode 105 of the FiredUp! podcast is about the AI backlash hitting marketing!  Download the Multiplier Marketing Megapack today. Exclusive offer for all our listeners — get all our Startup Guides in one go! Over 50 pages of advanced tips and advice that dive deep into content marketing, search advertising, and marketing attribution. In this episode of the FiredUp! podcast, the Firebrand team shares how skepticism about AI’s authenticity, trustworthiness, and effectiveness is reshaping the marketing landscape and actionable steps you can take right now to maintain your brand’s reputation and the trust of your buyers while still utilizing AI responsibility in your business.  Morgan, Nicole, and Chris discuss: Why marketers and buyers alike are increasingly wary of AI-generated content.The data shows that AI-written blogs, emails, and ads have lower engagement, higher bounce rates, and weaker search rankings compared to human-created content.Why fact-checking your content is more important than ever.How marketers can leverage AI for efficiency without sacrificing the human connection that buyers are seeking.Are you ready to navigate the AI backlash in your marketing strategy? Share this episode with your team, subscribe for more expert discussions, and join the conversation: How is your brand responding to the AI backlash? Thank you for listening! Tune in to all the episodes for practical tips on crushing your startup marketing goals. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! CONNECT WITH FIREBRAND: Firebrand is a startup marketing agency. We help tech startups secure outsized marketing outcomes on their path to growth. Youtube LinkedIn X (Formerly Twitter) Work with Firebrand Apply to Be a Podcast Guest Send us a text

    35 min
  4. How B2B Buyer Behavior is Changing

    SEP 4

    How B2B Buyer Behavior is Changing

    Are you feeling the shift in how B2B buyers are researching and purchasing solutions? In today's landscape, shaped by new AI technology and ongoing economic pressures, the traditional marketing playbook is no longer enough. This episode of FiredUp! dives deep into the data and trends revealing why buyers are more self-reliant and how AI is acting as a "gatekeeper" to their shortlists. Join us as we explore what this means for your content strategy and how you can adapt to meet buyers where they are. This week, episode 104 of the FiredUp! podcast is about how B2B buyer behavior is changing!  Download the Multiplier Marketing Megapack today. Exclusive offer for all our listeners — get all our Startup Guides in one go! Over 50 pages of advanced tips and advice that dive deep into content marketing, search advertising, and marketing attribution. In this episode of the FiredUp! podcast, the Firebrand team shares the tremendous role of AI in buyer research and actionable steps you can take right now to build substantial brand trust.  Morgan and Nicole discuss: The impact of AI and AI-powered search on B2B buyer behavior and marketing strategies.The evolving role and structure of buyer committees in the purchasing process.The increasing importance of brand trust, user reviews, and third-party validation.Navigating economic pressures: adapting product offerings, pricing, and marketing to tighter budgets and longer sales cycles.Do you have content that speaks to the different personas on a buying committee? Think about your full-funnel content journey and where you have gaps. Thank you for listening! Tune in to all the episodes for practical tips on crushing your startup marketing goals. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! CONNECT WITH FIREBRAND: Firebrand is a startup marketing agency. We help tech startups secure outsized marketing outcomes on their path to growth. Youtube LinkedIn X (Formerly Twitter) Work with Firebrand Apply to Be a Podcast Guest Send us a text

    42 min
  5. How to Be a Great Spokesperson

    AUG 28

    How to Be a Great Spokesperson

    Are your senior executives ready for media interviews? In today's competitive landscape, being an effective spokesperson is a crucial skill, yet many leaders are unprepared for the challenges of an interview. On this episode of FiredUp!, Morgan McLintic and Chris Ulbrich discuss the fundamentals of spokesperson readiness, from mastering key messages to handling tough questions and ensuring your message is heard. This week, episode 103 of the FiredUp! podcast is about how to be a great spokesperson!  Download the Multiplier Marketing Megapack today. Exclusive offer for all our listeners — get all our Startup Guides in one go! Over 50 pages of advanced tips and advice that dive deep into content marketing, search advertising, and marketing attribution. In this episode of the FiredUp! podcast, the Firebrand team shares why it is important to have a senior executive as a spokesperson and actionable steps you can take right now to prepare your executives to give awesome interviews.  In this episode, Morgan and Chris discuss: Understanding the role of a spokesperson and the importance of aligning your agenda with a journalist’s.The difference between marketing messages and media messages, and the importance of internalizing the media messages before the interview.How to build professional relationships with reporters the right way.The importance of taking the time to prepare for an interview and how your PR team should help you.Think about the last time you or a senior leader did a media interview. Were you truly prepared? Share this episode with your team and start preparing for your next opportunity. Thank you for listening! Tune in to all the episodes for practical tips on crushing your startup marketing goals. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! CONNECT WITH FIREBRAND: Firebrand is a startup marketing agency. We help tech startups secure outsized marketing outcomes on their path to growth. Youtube LinkedIn X (Formerly Twitter) Work with Firebrand Apply to Be a Podcast Guest Send us a text

    39 min
  6. Interactive Content in the AI Era

    AUG 21

    Interactive Content in the AI Era

    Is your content getting lost in the "sea of sameness" created by generative AI?  Are your website visitors bouncing before you can capture their interest? As B2B buyers become more dependent on AI for their initial research, it's harder than ever to stand out and capture valuable first-party data. On this episode of FiredUp!, Morgan McLintic and Nicole Pytel discuss why interactive content can be the solution to these challenges, helping you boost engagement, collect rich data, and differentiate your brand. This week, episode 102 of the FiredUp! podcast is about interactive content in the AI era!  Download the Multiplier Marketing Megapack today. Exclusive offer for all our listeners — get all our Startup Guides in one go! Over 50 pages of advanced tips and advice that dive deep into content marketing, search advertising, and marketing attribution. In this episode of the FiredUp! podcast, the Firebrand team shares the importance of interactive content in the new era of AI and actionable steps you can take right now to optimize the way you use the data collected through interactive content.  Morgan, and Nicole discuss: The rise of interactive content due to AI, allowing for quick content creation and consumption changes.The value of assessments in providing actionable advice and adding value to the user.How to best use data collected from interactive content in things for lead nuturing and sales insights.Best practices for distributing and promoting interactive content, including paid and organic channels, email, and employee sharing. Think about an existing lead generation asset you have, like a guide or playbook. How can you turn it into a more interactive, "choose your own adventure" experience? Thank you for listening! Tune in to all the episodes for practical tips on crushing your startup marketing goals. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! CONNECT WITH FIREBRAND: Firebrand is a startup marketing agency. We help tech startups secure outsized marketing outcomes on their path to growth. Youtube LinkedIn X (Formerly Twitter) Work with Firebrand Apply to Be a Podcast Guest Send us a text

    29 min
  7. Creating a Category, Closing Series A with Aaron Cannon

    AUG 19 · BONUS

    Creating a Category, Closing Series A with Aaron Cannon

    Are you a startup founder looking to disrupt an industry with AI, but unsure how to secure significant funding? Do you want to understand what it takes to get noticed by top-tier VCs and build a category-defining company?  In this episode of Funded, we speak with Aaron Cannon, Co-founder and CEO of Outset, an AI-moderated research platform, as he shares the incredible journey of closing their $17 million Series A funding. Discover how Outset leveraged AI to create a new market category, achieved rapid customer adoption with global brands, and navigated the complexities of fundraising from Y Combinator to a successful Series A. Download the Multiplier Marketing Megapack today. Exclusive offer for all our listeners — get all our Startup Guides in one go! Over 50 pages of advanced tips and advice that dive deep into content marketing, search advertising, and marketing attribution. Aaron is the co-founder and CEO of Outset, where he’s leading the development of the world’s first agent-led research platform powered by AI-moderated interviews. He brings over a decade of experience in product strategy and leadership from roles at Tesla, Triplebyte, and Deloitte, with a passion for building tools that bridge design, business, and user research. Aaron studied economics and entrepreneurial leadership at Tufts University and continues to mentor young innovators. Aaron, Morgan, and Chris discuss: What AI-moderated research is, how it enables companies to understand human behavior.How Outset's AI presents questions via voice and text, allowing participants to respond with video, voice, or screen share.Aaron's prediction that AI-moderated research will eliminate the distinction between quantitative and qualitative data.The process of securing $17 million in Series A funding led by 8VC.Why choosing the right individual partner is more important than the firm itself.How Y Combinator provides brand cachet, a supportive community, intense focus, and a structured environment.That fundraising is primarily about storytelling and the importance of continuously refining your narrative based on feedback.Aaron Cannon's journey with Outset AI provides a masterclass in securing venture capital by building an innovative product, understanding your market deeply, and mastering the art of the fundraising narrative. Thank you for listening! Tune in to all the episodes for practical tips on crushing your startup marketing goals. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! CONNECT WITH AARON CANNON: LinkedIn Outset CONNECT WITH FIREBRAND: Firebrand is a startup marketing agency. We help tech startups secure outsized marketing outcomes on their path to growth. Youtube LinkedIn X (Formerly Twitter) Work with Firebrand Apply to Be a Podcast Guest Send us a text

    38 min
  8. How to Raise the Profile of Your CEO

    AUG 14

    How to Raise the Profile of Your CEO

    Executive visibility has become a key priority for startups, but with the rise of LinkedIn and the impact of AI, the rules have changed. In this episode of FiredUp!, Morgan McLintic, Chris Ulbrich, and Nicole Pytel discuss why executive visibility is having a moment, how to get your CEO's content to stand out, and the crucial commitments required for a successful campaign. This week, episode 101 of the FiredUp! podcast is about how to raise the profile of your CEO!  Download the Multiplier Marketing Megapack today. Exclusive offer for all our listeners — get all our Startup Guides in one go! Over 50 pages of advanced tips and advice that dive deep into content marketing, search advertising, and marketing attribution. In this episode of the FiredUp! podcast, the Firebrand team shares the different methods of elevating your CEO's public profile and personal brand and actionable steps you can take right now to boost your CEO’s visibility.  Morgan, Chris, and Nicole discuss: Executive visibility is a key priority for startups because content shared by executives averages three times the engagement of the same posts from corporate pages. The CEO's profile can lift the entire company's brand, making the executive a key asset for driving sales.LinkedIn is a top platform for thought leadership, but AI's influence has made it easier to generate content, while also making it harder to stand out with quality.Thought leadership requires "leading thoughts" and a real commitment, not just visibility. The executive must have a strong point of view and a willingness to participate, as the big ideas for content should come from them, not the PR team.Authenticity and multi-channel presence are essential for building a personal brand. An executive visibility campaign should extend beyond LinkedIn to other channels like podcasts, company blogs, and newsletters to build a community and leave a lasting impression. Do you have a CEO who is willing to take the personal risk and put in the time to build their public profile? Evaluate your executive's desire and commitment before starting a campaign. Thank you for listening! Tune in to all the episodes for practical tips on crushing your startup marketing goals. Don’t forget to follow, rate, and review the podcast, and tell us your key takeaways! CONNECT WITH FIREBRAND: Firebrand is a startup marketing agency. We help tech startups secure outsized marketing outcomes on their path to growth. Youtube LinkedIn X (Formerly Twitter) Work with Firebrand Apply to Be a Podcast Guest Send us a text

    32 min
5
out of 5
17 Ratings

About

FiredUp! is the show for marketers working in early and late-stage startups. Each week, we walk through fresh strategies and tactics to build brand and drive demand for your startup. Featuring interviews with marketing leaders, our take on the latest trends, and practical tips about PR, content marketing and growth marketing, we promise plenty of signal with some noisy fun along the way. FiredUp! is hosted by the team at startup marketing agency, Firebrand. Learn more at firebrand.marketing today.