In this episode, I tackle one of the most common questions I’m asked: “Do I really need a personal brand?” Many professionals secretly hope the answer is no, but the truth is, if you’re leading a business, driving growth, or representing your organization publicly, the answer is absolutely yes. I explain who benefits most from building a personal brand and share the three key reasons it’s essential: visibility, connection, and credibility. I also discuss how personal brands have evolved far beyond influencer culture and why every leader must intentionally shape how they show up online. By the end, you’ll understand exactly what makes a personal brand effective and how it can strengthen trust, drive business opportunities, and safeguard your reputation in the age of AI and digital search. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: Why I started my business and how storytelling changed everything 00:33 The most common question I get: Do I need a personal brand? 01:21 Who needs a personal brand and why leadership visibility matters 02:13 Why personal branding isn’t just for influencers anymore 03:08 The recruiter’s perspective: How social media reveals what your resume can’t 03:56 How people vet you online before connecting and what they’re looking for 04:19 Reason #1: Visibility and why showing up online drives opportunities 04:47 Reason #2: Connection and why people buy from people, not faceless brands 05:30 Real client example: How consistent storytelling attracts inbound leads 06:15 The importance of being relatable and polarizing in a positive way 06:54 Reason #3: Credibility and how earned media and AI search shape perception 07:36 How to shape your narrative and define what you want to be known for 07:56 Where to show up for maximum impact: social media, podcasts, and press 09:39 Final thoughts: How personal branding fuels growth, reputation, and trust Key Takeaways: Be deliberate about how you’re perceived online: If you don’t define what you want to be known for, algorithms and others will do it for you. Decide on the specific topics and values that reflect your expertise and consistently create content around them so your narrative stays in your control. Visibility drives credibility: People and AI search engines are constantly evaluating digital footprints. When you show up on social media, in articles, or on podcasts, you reinforce expertise and authority in places your audience already trusts. Connection starts with authenticity: Your personality and perspective are your strongest differentiators. Let people hear your voice and see your values, so they can decide early whether you’re the right fit. This saves time and attracts clients who are genuinely aligned with your brand. Earned media multiplies trust: Third-party credibility from respected outlets and platforms is powerful. A well-placed article, podcast, or feature signals that others see you as a trusted expert, making it easier for new audiences to believe in your expertise and engage. Consistent storytelling compounds over time: Each appearance, post, or quote adds another layer to your public identity. The more consistent and visible you are, the more momentum you build in attracting opportunities and establishing long-term influence. Rate, Review, & Follow on Apple Podcasts & Spotify Please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people like you who want to build a stronger business. On Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode! For Spotify, tap here on your mobile phone, follow the podcast, listen to the show, then find the rating icon below the description, and tap to rate with five stars. Connect with Christie Bilbrey http://www.stellanovamedia.com info@stellanovamedia.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christiebilbrey Instagram: https://instagram.com/stellanovamedia
