The Brand Mixology Podcast

Claire Marshall
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  • Entrepreneurship

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!

  1. LinkedIn Personal Branding: What's Actually Working in 2026

    Apr 10

    LinkedIn Personal Branding: What's Actually Working in 2026

    If you've ever wondered whether LinkedIn is actually worth your time as a founder or business owner — this episode is your answer. Jack Longman, founder of B2B personal branding agency Social Advantage, joins Claire to break down exactly what's working on LinkedIn right now, why AI search is changing everything, and how to build a presence that converts without feeling gross about it. From his unexpected backstory (punk rock touring musician to LinkedIn strategist) to the practical frameworks he uses with clients every day, this is one you'll want to listen to with a notebook open. In This Episode[00:00] Introductions — and the Jaws poster origin story [01:00] Jack's journey: from punk rock touring musician to running a personal branding agency — and why the band van was actually a masterclass in business [06:30] Why LinkedIn is the platform of choice for B2B service businesses, and how to think about it as "a networking event that's happening 24/7" [09:00] AI and content: why using AI as a shortcut is damaging credibility on LinkedIn — and how to use it properly as a tool, not a replacement for your voice [11:00] The big shift: how people are now finding businesses through ChatGPT, Claude and AI-powered Google summaries instead of traditional search — and what that means for your LinkedIn strategy [13:00] SEO vs GEO: optimising your profile so both humans and AI can find you and understand what you do [16:00] Audience Q&A begins — questions sourced from LinkedIn and Instagram [16:30] Do you need to know a lot to get started on LinkedIn? — why learning by doing beats waiting until you're ready [18:00] I'm awful at staying consistent — how do I show up without burning out? — why posting once a week IS consistency, and how batching changes everything [20:00] Overcoming the "feeling gross" barrier — the mindset shift that makes posting feel less like self-promotion [21:30] What are founders getting wrong on LinkedIn right now? — profile basics, positioning, content pillars, and why not being social on social media is the biggest mistake [25:00] Vanity metrics vs. the metrics that actually matter — why profile views are the most underrated stat on the platform [28:30] How do small businesses get traction when bigger companies seem to dominate? — why trying to out-produce them is the wrong strategy entirely [30:30] What's the best way to find your ideal clients on LinkedIn? — mapping your network, finding introducers, and the QR code trick for networking events [34:30] How do you go from connection to client? — the WhatsApp approach to DMs and why "no response is a response" [37:00] Using the Open to Work function — visibility settings, what LinkedIn pushes, and how to use content to help your search [40:00] Is LinkedIn Premium and verification worth it? — an honest answer [42:00] Social media pods — why LinkedIn will penalise you for them and why they undermine your strategy anyway [45:30] The question on the LinkedIn gender bias debate — Jack's honest take [48:30] Brand Mixology: what Jack would put in the cocktail shaker (personality) and what he'd put on ice (spam pitching in the DMs) [51:00] Where to find Jack and how to get his free guide Free ResourcesFrom Jack: Download his free guide — "How to Optimise Your LinkedIn Profile So Claude and ChatGPT Can Find You" Connect with Jack on LinkedIn and ask him for it directly, or grab it via the link below. Dowload here From Claire: Not sure if your personal brand is actually working for your business? Take the free assessment: Is Your Personal Brand Helping Your Business Grow? Start here Connect with JackLinkedIn: Jack Longman, Founder of Social AdvantageInstagram: @jackl0ngman (zero not O)Website: socialadvantage.co.ukAll socials: @socialadv0ntage (zero not O) Connect with ClaireWebsite: brandmixology.coLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/iamclairemarshallInstagram: @iamclairemarshall Key TakeawaysLinkedIn is no longer just a job board — it's the platform people visit before making a commercial decision about you8 out of 10 of Jack's recent leads found him via AI-powered search (ChatGPT or Google AI summaries) — your profile needs to be optimised for machines, not just humansConsistency doesn't mean posting daily — once a week, sustained, beats a burst and burnout every timeProfile views are a more meaningful metric than likes — someone checking your profile has taken a real next stepDon't pitch in the DMs. Sell the conversation, not the productPeople buy people. Personality is the strategy

    52 min
  2. Rewrite Your Money Story: What Every Female Founder Must Hear

    Mar 6

    Rewrite Your Money Story: What Every Female Founder Must Hear

    Are you a female founder ready to smash through your income ceiling? In this International Women's Day special, Claire is joined by the incredible Tracey, a money mentor who is revolutionising how women approach their finances. If you've ever felt that your relationship with money is holding you back, this episode is your call to action. Tracey shares her powerful journey from language graduate to finance expert, and how her own experiences with perimenopause and limiting money beliefs led her to create a system that empowers female founders to achieve record revenues. This conversation is a masterclass in understanding and transforming your money mindset for women. We delve into why so many talented female entrepreneurs struggle with charging your worth, often undervaluing their vast experience and overdelivering for clients. Tracey breaks down how our childhood experiences shape our financial behaviours and provides actionable strategies to identify and eradicate the limiting money beliefs that are sabotaging your success. It’s time to stop playing small and start building the business and life you truly deserve. We also explore the crucial link between menopause and money, a topic that is so often overlooked. Tracey explains how hormonal changes can impact your risk tolerance and financial decisions, and why the fastest-growing group of entrepreneurs are women in their late 40s and 50s. This episode is packed with wisdom on building financial resilience, the power of community, and the importance of having a clear vision for your future. Get ready to feel inspired, empowered, and equipped with the tools to rewrite your money story. Tune in to discover Tracey’s unique ‘TRACEY’ system for success, learn how to reframe your language around money, and find out why resilience is the secret ingredient for every successful female founder. Don't forget to check out the links below to connect with Tracey and access the incredible resources mentioned in the show. Key Moment Timestamps: (01:00) Meet Tracey: From Language Graduate to Money Mentor (07:05) What Are Limiting Money Beliefs & How Do They Hold Us Back? (10:50) The Power of Language: How to Reframe Your Money Story (25:15) Menopause & Money: The Unspoken Link for Female Founders (32:15) The Tenacity of Female Entrepreneurs & The Power of Community (39:50) Tracey's Word for the Cocktail of Success: Resilience (42:10) The 'TRACEY' System: A Framework for Financial Success Connect with Tracey and Claire Connect with Tracey on her website https://menomoney.co.uk/ And download her free framework to receive you very own blank check here https://request-cheque-by-post-gsxsesz.gamma.site/ Connect with Claire on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamclairemarshall/

    46 min
  3. The 4 Words That Will Transform Your Sales

    Feb 27

    The 4 Words That Will Transform Your Sales

    Stop overcomplicating your sales calls. If you’ve ever felt that "sales" is a dirty word or struggled to explain exactly what you do to a potential client, this episode is for you. Claire sits down with James Newell, the expert behind "Clear Sales Message", to decode why most businesses fail at the first hurdle of sales communication. James shares his journey from managing £600 million in corporate accounts to teaching entrepreneurs how to sell with honesty and integrity. We dive deep into the buying psychology that drives decisions, exploring why your potential customers might not be connecting the dots between your features and their needs. James explains the "False Consensus Effect" and how it sabotages your sales messaging strategy by assuming everyone sees the world from your perspective. You’ll learn how to bridge the gap between what you offer and why your customer should actually care, using simple, actionable frameworks that remove the "sleaze" from the process. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, this conversation will help you build a clear sales message that resonates. We discuss the importance of "trigger points" in the sales process simplification and how to stay at the forefront of your audience's mind without being offensive or pushy. It’s time to stop selling and start helping your customers buy. Key Moment Timestamps(01:00) - The transition from corporate sales to teaching the "Clear Sales Message" methodology.(05:30) - Understanding the False Consensus Effect: Why people don't understand what you do.(07:45) - Bridging the gap: Using "What that means is..." to connect features to benefits.(11:30) - Why your business name is the start of your sales conversation.(16:45) - The "Burden of Proof": Why it's your responsibility to make the case for your product.(24:30) - Identifying trigger points: Finding customers at the exact moment they need you.(31:00) - The power of short-form content in building long-term sales trust. Connect with James James Newell’s Website: https://www.clearsalesmessage.com/Clear Sales Message Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5aKEZBlYjarDvsACnMDU6A?si=6efcdbd2c34c4bd9James on LInkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesnewelluk/ Connect with Claire

    53 min
  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. 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
  7. 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
  8. 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
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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
    13
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Claire Marshall