The Jason and Bart Show

TheJasonAndBartShow

How we operate our agencies and how we can help others operate theirs. And some fun guests along the way.

  1. Ben May from The Code Company - Understanding the Future of Web Development

    09/12/2023

    Ben May from The Code Company - Understanding the Future of Web Development

    Ben May from The Code Company - Understanding the Future of Web Development Join us for a riveting conversation with Ben, founder and managing director of the Code Company. This globally recognized enterprise, WordPress agency, has been solving complex problems for prominent digital publishers in the Asia Pacific region and the U.S. Ben charts his journey from founding his company, weathering an economic downturn, and maneuvering the challenges brought about by the pandemic. We explore hybrid work, the current hiring landscape, and client's aversion to digital marketing. Listen in as we take a deep dive into the discipline and focus it takes to establish and run a niche enterprise in the WordPress space. As we move along, we delve into the challenges of servicing clients across different time zones. The Code Company is unique in its approach, as it operates within certain time boundaries. Ben also shares his insights on how the company has had to adjust to a more educated and informed client base. With a surge in demand for data-driven solutions, it's fascinating to learn how the Code Company has been able to adapt and stay ahead of the curve. We end our conversation discussing the future of the internet and web development. Ben shares his thoughts on the potential of chat bots, AI, and the future of domain names. We question whether the internet can exist without websites, and if a shift away from website-based content consumption is imminent. Join us as we ponder the future of AI, the rise of first party data and the martech industry, and even contemplate the idea of a chip implanted in the brain for internet access.

    30 min
  2. Andi Graham -Navigating Business Chronicles with Visionary Leader

    08/15/2023

    Andi Graham -Navigating Business Chronicles with Visionary Leader

    Join us as we journey through the business chronicles of visionary leader, Andi Graham, founder and CEO of Big Sea, a trailblazing marketing agency that uses the art of storytelling to empower mission-based organizations. We'll unravel the pivotal moments and milestones that have shaped Big Sea's prosperous journey over the span of two eventful decades. We'll unpack the multifaceted intricacies of leading a solo business and the enormous bravery it took to merge with another agency, all the while providing an intimate glimpse into Andi's entrepreneurial voyage. We also lift the lid on Big Sea's revolutionary approaches to hiring and pricing, and their forward-thinking adoption of AI tools within their workflows. As we unravel the intricacies of their operations, you'll discover how the timeless skills of English majors are put to use in creating superior chatbot prompts. Andi also throws light on the unique leadership challenges encountered during the integration of two agencies, wading through an economic freeze, and the task of finding work for their new team members. Finally, we shine a light on the professional evolution of the Big Sea team amidst changing clientele and industries they serve. Tune in to draw insights from Andi's inspiring journey and (0:00:01) - Founder Discusses Big Sea's Journey (0:11:28) - Hiring and Pricing Challenges in Agency (0:21:49) - Challenges and Growth in Leadership

    30 min
  3. Todd Ross Nienkerk - The Rise, Challenges and Evolution of Four Kitchens

    08/08/2023

    Todd Ross Nienkerk - The Rise, Challenges and Evolution of Four Kitchens

    Join us as we engage with Todd Ross Nienkerk, CEO of Four Kitchens, on his incredible growth story. We kick things off by retracing the transformational journey that began with Four Kitchens merging with Advomatic two years ago, an event that almost doubled the number of active client relationships. Todd guides us through the changes, growth strategies, and challenges that followed, offering insight into the dynamics of blending different business models. As we progress, we delve into the critical aspects of managing rapid growth, cash flow, and integration. Todd shares the exhilarating experience of Four Kitchens' acquisition of Manatee, which led to a 50% increase in headcount overnight. We explore the challenges faced with their COO being on maternity leave at the same time and the emotional roller coaster that comes with such rapid expansion and the potential for new clients and verticals. In the latter part of our chat, we turn to the more challenging side of business – downsizing. Todd discusses the tough decisions they had to make as the economy slowed down and how they strategized to keep the team intact. We then shift gears to discuss the future of content and imagination, drawing on Todd's thoughts on augmented reality, virtual reality, and algorithms' role in shaping our world. Listen in for a truly inspiring journey of growth, challenges, and transformation in the world of tech. --------- EPISODE CHAPTERS --------- (0:00:00) - Four Kitchens Transformation and Growth Journey (0:11:41) - Cash, Marketing, Growth, and Integration (0:15:40) - Challenges and Downsizing in Business (0:21:03) - Approaching Downsizing and Business Development Challenges (0:37:39) - Discussion About Meow Wolf Art Experience (0:42:14) - The Future of Content and Imagination

    45 min
  4. Seth Goldstein on Harnessing AI for Effective Digital Marketing

    08/01/2023

    Seth Goldstein on Harnessing AI for Effective Digital Marketing

    (0:00:01) - Marketing Strategies and Small Business Clients (0:09:13) - Meetings, Webflow, and AI in Marketing (0:14:48) - Improving Writing and AI Technology (0:20:37) - Using Stock Photography and Unsplashed Pictures Uncover the secrets of digital marketing as we engage in an insightful conversation with Seth Goldstein from Goldstein Media, revealing how his agency supports clients in an array of services from curating websites and mastering WordPress to SEO and paid marketing. Come with us on this riveting journey, where we shine a light on Seth's podcast, Entrepreneurs Enigma, a collaborative platform where he assists clients with marketing and strategic needs. We also scrutinize the current marketing landscape, highlighting the curious trend of budgets pouring in for marketing, yet with projects being postponed. Ever wondered how to optimize your time by scheduling multiple meetings in one location? Or ever been intrigued by the complexities of website hosting and maintenance? We're here to satisfy your curiosity and more! We also venture into the exhilarating realm of AI and its game-changing impact on marketing. Listen to our personal experiences, as we discuss AI's transformational potential in areas like writing and video editing. Seth opens up about his use of tools like Lexpage, Grammarly, and Superhuman, emphasizing the importance of infusing personal flavor into work and harnessing AI to streamline processes. As we draw to a close, we ponder over the role of stock photography in crafting a professional look for websites and the significance of crediting photographers. The conversation takes an exciting turn as we investigate how AI can turbocharge production and efficiency. Don't miss out on this episode jam-packed with insights, anecdotes, and expert advice that will guide you through the intricate world of digital marketing and beyond!

    22 min
  5. Dan Maccarone - The Importance of Strategy in Agency Work

    07/18/2023

    Dan Maccarone - The Importance of Strategy in Agency Work

    Dan Maccarone is the part owner of Fools Gold, a bar in New York City, and the founder of Charming Robot, a product design company. He has over 15 years of experience in the industry and specializes in creating great user experiences that generate revenue for his clients. Summary: Dan Maccarone, part owner of Fools Gold and founder of Charming Robot, discusses the importance of strategy in the agency world. He emphasizes the need for collaboration between clients and agencies, where the client brings their vision and the agency brings their expertise to create something wonderful. Dan also shares his obsession with travel and his excitement about using AI tools like Chat GPT to plan his trips and generate ideas for his clients. Key Takeaways: Collaboration between clients and agencies is crucial for creating successful projects. Strategy should be a priority in the agency world, as it helps generate revenue for clients. Using AI tools like Chat GPT can save time and generate new ideas for travel planning and client projects. 0:00:17 Introduction to the episode 0:00:49 Dan Maccarone introduces himself and his work 0:02:21 Discussion about the importance of making money for clients 0:04:43 Favorite kind of project and client 0:06:51 Difference between boss mentality and leader mentality 0:08:45 Negative connotation of the word "strategy" 0:11:36 Importance of strategy in agency work 0:14:16 Negative experiences with consultants and strategists 0:18:56 The role of account management in agencies 0:25:29 Discussion about the use of Chat GPT and AI in travel planning

    35 min

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How we operate our agencies and how we can help others operate theirs. And some fun guests along the way.