https://simplecast.com The Naked Brand Branding is personal and to fix big issues in business, we need to have many uncomfortable conversations. We need to strip back brands to their fundamentals and start to rebuild from there. Welcome to the Naked Brand. 2020 - 2022 en Tue, 17 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000 Tue, 17 May 2022 09:00:11 +0000 https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com The Naked Brand https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/7416d754-67bc-4480-a0f4-a4d2d917f23e/a1b20fc3-5a7f-49bf-a072-9c3f05c08678/3000x3000/tnb-podcast-art-1400x1400.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com episodic Branding is personal and to fix big issues in business, we need to have many uncomfortable conversations. We need to strip back brands to their fundamentals and start to rebuild from there. Welcome to the Naked Brand. Mike Leon no https://feeds.simplecast.com/pkMMSIec contentmarketing, leadership, brand, advertising, branding, brands, brandstories, brandstorytelling, business, digitalmarketing, marketing, podcast Mike Leon mleon@brandheroes.ca d1d11355-18e3-4859-af47-f5ace52fc794 The Automotive Brand Tue, 17 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Jim Shorkey) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-automotive-brand-V2IdOu66 The Automotive Brand Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Jim Shorkey 00:30:12 Imagine yourself behind the wheel of a fast car, you feel like the world is yours.. but, that feeling starts to change as you grow up and the practical side of you starts to kick in.. The price of gas, the environment and safety. In this episode we speak with Jim Shorkey, Former CEO of the Jim Shorkey Auto Group in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, about the auto brand. What is the auto brand and how does it make people feel? What is that gives us such an impression and feeling when it comes to this little thing we ride around in? Imagine yourself behind the wheel of a fast car, you feel like the world is yours.. but, that feeling starts to change as you grow up and the practical side of you starts to kick in.. The price of gas, the environment and safety. In this episode we speak with Jim Shorkey, Former CEO of the Jim Shorkey Auto Group in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, about the auto brand. What is the auto brand and how does it make people feel? What is that gives us such an impression and feeling when it comes to this little thing we ride around in? vehicle, automotive, values, cars, branding, sales, auto no full 13 2 c126398a-4910-4baa-a8ad-4444693c8a2d The Audacious Brand Tue, 10 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon, Mohamad Fakih, Heather Purdon) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-audacious-brand-bG16zPHM The Audacious Brand Mike Leon, Mohamad Fakih, Heather Purdon 00:31:04 How audacious of you! Wow, you had the audacity to do that? The term 'audacious' often has a negative connotation to it - until you become an entrepreneur. Suddenly, the word 'audacious' becomes impressive. In business you sometimes have to go out on a limb and build from the ground up. In this episode we speak with Mohamad Fakih, Founder and President of Paramount Fine Foods. How audacious of you! Wow, you had the audacity to do that? The term 'audacious' often has a negative connotation to it - until you become an entrepreneur. Suddenly, the word 'audacious' becomes impressive. In business you sometimes have to go out on a limb and build from the ground up. In this episode we speak with Mohamad Fakih, Founder and President of Paramount Fine Foods. audacious, ceo, immigration, immigrant story, branding, paramount foods, marketing no full 12 2 f9fecf59-8315-4b06-a27e-c78ceaebbc71 The Influencer Brand Tue, 3 May 2022 09:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon, Sarah Mariano, Heather Purdon) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-influencer-brand-iyLhz7T8 The Influencer Brand Mike Leon, Sarah Mariano, Heather Purdon 00:35:10 Influence and branding - it's no secret that influencers are a huge part of brand culture. But what happens when the influencer becomes the brand? What is enough to give you influence and real credibility? Is it being really good at what you do or is it likeability? In this episode we speak with Sarah Mariano, Creator of Performance Stretch Therapy. Sarah has used social media, Instagram & Pinterest in particular, to build her business and influence in the stretch therapy community. Influence and branding - it's no secret that influencers are a huge part of brand culture. But what happens when the influencer becomes the brand? What is enough to give you influence and real credibility? Is it being really good at what you do or is it likeability? In this episode we speak with Sarah Mariano, Creator of Performance Stretch Therapy. Sarah has used social media, Instagram & Pinterest in particular, to build her business and influence in the stretch therapy community. instagram, influence, pinterest, youtube, influencer, branding, social media, marketing no full 11 2 484b6c29-558c-4b75-a1af-834fab076d20 The Money Brand Tue, 26 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Ricardo McRae) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-money-brand-ZGOzfe9F The Money Brand Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Ricardo McRae 00:41:05 For the love of money! We live, love, betray and fight for money. But money and wealth itself has changed - it's no longer just about the physical coin in your pocket. Money has evolved to cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Blockchain. The story of money has changed but our love for it remains the same. In this episode we speak with Ricardo McRae, a licensed financial broker that specializes in helping families grow and save money. For the love of money! We live, love, betray and fight for money. But money and wealth itself has changed - it's no longer just about the physical coin in your pocket. Money has evolved to cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Blockchain. The story of money has changed but our love for it remains the same. In this episode we speak with Ricardo McRae, a licensed financial broker that specializes in helping families grow and save money. bitcoin, investing, money, finance, podcast, finances no full 10 2 c81b039f-481f-4fe1-af17-45fbcd265bc5 The Brand of Religion Tue, 19 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Rev. Jeff Rock) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-brand-of-religion-uTGP6RjQ The Brand of Religion Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Rev. Jeff Rock 00:37:52 The Brand of Religion - yes, it's a global brand! Belief and values are a huge part of branding - as they are with religion. But what is the brand of religion exactly? And how do we help people keep the faith? The Naked Brand welcomes Rev. Jeff Rock of Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto. MCC Toronto is a vibrant, welcoming and progressive church rooted in Christian tradition. The Brand of Religion - yes, it's a global brand! Belief and values are a huge part of branding - as they are with religion. But what is the brand of religion exactly? And how do we help people keep the faith? The Naked Brand welcomes Rev. Jeff Rock of Metropolitan Community Church of Toronto. MCC Toronto is a vibrant, welcoming and progressive church rooted in Christian tradition. religious, religion, church, faith, values, branding no full 9 2 feb77f83-1a07-469e-8b74-7612d2e0940c Branding Recovery Tue, 12 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Andrew Hodd) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/branding-recovery-u47sJonk Branding Recovery Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Andrew Hodd 00:37:27 'Recovery' is a word we've heard over and over again throughout the pandemic - and in many contexts. What does recovery look like for our economy? What does it mean from a branding standpoint? And how do we sell it to businesses and society as a whole? In this episode we speak with Andrew Hodd, business owner & President of Vantage Venues, about Branding Recovery. 'Recovery' is a word we've heard over and over again throughout the pandemic - and in many contexts. What does recovery look like for our economy? What does it mean from a branding standpoint? And how do we sell it to businesses and society as a whole? In this episode we speak with Andrew Hodd, business owner & President of Vantage Venues, about Branding Recovery. economy, recovery, small business, benefits, covid-19, subsidy no full 8 2 10262aba-e2f5-464c-bf8c-3cc54f1e3d15 The Brand of Masculinity Tue, 5 Apr 2022 09:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Dan Faill) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-brand-of-masculinity-1ZSfVCJ1 The Brand of Masculinity Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Dan Faill 00:35:59 There's been a lot of discussion and discourse around masculinity - but what does masculinity actually look like? What is the 'brand of masculinity'? And how has our definition of masculinity evolved over time? And does our definition need to be refined? In this episode we speak with Dan Faill, speaker and consultant, about The Brand of Masculinity. There's been a lot of discussion and discourse around masculinity - but what does masculinity actually look like? What is the 'brand of masculinity'? And how has our definition of masculinity evolved over time? And does our definition need to be refined? In this episode we speak with Dan Faill, speaker and consultant, about The Brand of Masculinity. toxic masculinity, men, podcast, masculinity, branding, podcasting, marketing no full 7 2 35d56029-71e0-432b-a079-ec435c95aa00 The Brand of Reinvention Tue, 29 Mar 2022 09:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Amanda Acker) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-brand-of-reinvention-SttEOOWH The Brand of Reinvention Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Amanda Acker 00:29:46 Are we as humans capable of reinvention? Or are we hardwired to be who we are? Is reinvention a fancy new hair cut or a reboot of our fundamentals? In this episode we speak with Amanda Acker, Host of 'The Let Good Things In Show', who knows first-hand what personal reinvention looks like. Are we as humans capable of reinvention? Or are we hardwired to be who we are? Is reinvention a fancy new hair cut or a reboot of our fundamentals? In this episode we speak with Amanda Acker, Host of 'The Let Good Things In Show', who knows first-hand what personal reinvention looks like. addiction, rebranding, reinvention no full 6 2 982975b0-3460-42b9-a9e1-71f3b9493ee6 The Brand of Mental Health Tue, 22 Mar 2022 09:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Heather Purdon, Mike Leon, Sara Makin) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-brand-of-mental-health-_HirSku9 The Brand of Mental Health Heather Purdon, Mike Leon, Sara Makin 00:30:01 There's no doubt that mental health is more important than ever. But is the right perception of mental health getting out there? Do we need to have a bigger conversation about how it's portrayed in the media and in what we watch and read? And what does mental health have to do with branding? In this episode we speak with Sara Makin, Founder of online counselling platform Makin Wellness, about The Brand of Mental Health. There's no doubt that mental health is more important than ever. But is the right perception of mental health getting out there? Do we need to have a bigger conversation about how it's portrayed in the media and in what we watch and read? And what does mental health have to do with branding? In this episode we speak with Sara Makin, Founder of online counselling platform Makin Wellness, about The Brand of Mental Health. online, mental health, branding, brands, counselling no full 5 2 f37657dd-a2cd-428e-a4e0-05d3f30c857a The Brand of Movement Tue, 8 Mar 2022 10:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Esie Mensah) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-brand-of-movement-b6Wi1Hqs The Brand of Movement Mike Leon, Heather Purdon, Esie Mensah 00:40:51 What is the 'brand of movement' and how does it bring us together? Can movement inspire a movement? And how can movement be used to elevate one's voice? In this episode we speak with choreographer, dancer and public speaker Esie Mensah about The Brand of Movement. What is the 'brand of movement' and how does it bring us together? Can movement inspire a movement? And how can movement be used to elevate one's voice? In this episode we speak with choreographer, dancer and public speaker Esie Mensah about The Brand of Movement. no full 4 2 694fdb44-3968-489b-8f8e-510b91612f15 A tale of two brands: personal vs. corporate Tue, 22 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Khari Gaynor, Mike Leon, Heather Purdon) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-brand-of-personal-vs-corporate-branding-doAh2qJ7 A tale of two brands: personal vs. corporate Khari Gaynor, Mike Leon, Heather Purdon 00:34:45 Will the real brand please stand up? How does one navigate the tricky balance of personal and corporate branding? Can the two brands co-exist? Or are they standalones? In this episode we speak with Khari Gaynor, growth and branding strategist and Vice President of Aha Insurance, about how personal and corporate brands can both help and hurt each other. Will the real brand please stand up? How does one navigate the tricky balance of personal and corporate branding? Can the two brands co-exist? Or are they standalones? In this episode we speak with Khari Gaynor, growth and branding strategist and Vice President of Aha Insurance, about how personal and corporate brands can both help and hurt each other. balance, branding, personal vs. corporate, entrepreneur no full 3 2 aeb4f940-5544-4c07-ad0d-a66914866e93 The Brand of Vulnerability Tue, 15 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon, Janey Brown, Heather Purdon) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-brand-of-vulnerability-ntF4myB3 The Brand of Vulnerability Mike Leon, Janey Brown, Heather Purdon 00:38:23 What does it mean to be truly vulnerable? Is it a superpower or weakness? And how can brands benefit from letting down their guards and embrace vulnerability? In this episode we speak with professional singer and trauma-informed coach Janey Brown about The Brand of Vulnerability. What does it mean to be truly vulnerable? Is it a superpower or weakness? And how can brands benefit from letting down their guards and embrace vulnerability? In this episode we speak with professional singer and trauma-informed coach Janey Brown about The Brand of Vulnerability. vulnerable, podcast, mindfulness, authentic no full 2 2 ef90e7bc-882b-41cc-bd52-e08ef524d58b The Brand of Geek Tue, 8 Feb 2022 10:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-brand-of-geek-n2ZG0Tvd The Brand of Geek Mike Leon 00:27:15 And we're back! Excited to kick off season 2 of The Naked Brand with the Brand of Geek. What is the brand of geek - and does it come with an all access pass? Or is it an exclusive club with a secret handshake? The Naked Brand welcomes Andy Burns, founder and publisher of the pop culture website Biff Bam Pop! Andy is also the author of books on Twin Peaks and Stephen King's The Stand. And we're back! Excited to kick off season 2 of The Naked Brand with the Brand of Geek. What is the brand of geek - and does it come with an all access pass? Or is it an exclusive club with a secret handshake? The Naked Brand welcomes Andy Burns, founder and publisher of the pop culture website Biff Bam Pop! Andy is also the author of books on Twin Peaks and Stephen King's The Stand. no full 1 2 4a1deeca-7f7f-435f-8e1e-f32fc886496e The Family Brand It’s our season finale and what better way to bring all 17 episodes together than talking about family. 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Family is About Love

FIAB IG

FIAB FACEBOOK

 

]]> Thu, 29 Jul 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Frank Nelson, Mike Leon, Jennifer Nugent, BJ Barone, Devon MD Jones) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-family-brand-WbpLCtJA It’s our season finale and what better way to bring all 17 episodes together than talking about family. 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Family is About Love

FIAB IG

FIAB FACEBOOK

 

]]> The Family Brand Frank Nelson, Mike Leon, Jennifer Nugent, BJ Barone, Devon MD Jones 00:49:34 It’s our season finale and what better way to bring all 17 episodes together than talking about family. So excited to host the founders of Family is About Love, Frank Nelson and BJ Barone. They join The Naked Brand to share how their family was thrust into the spotlight almost overnight because of one picture! We delve into The Family Brand and so much more, questioning the true definition of family. Is family just blood or is family the people around you that make you feel loved? How do Brands approach family? Are brands telling the right stories about families? Are brands listening? How inclusive are they actually being? We discuss how blood isn’t always thicker than water; the power of representation and visibility in branding and the responsibility of brands. Spoiler alert: “Family is about love but on the flip side, love isn’t always about family” Thank you all for tuning into Season 1 of The Naked Brand, look out for Season 2 coming in Fall 2021. It’s our season finale and what better way to bring all 17 episodes together than talking about family. So excited to host the founders of Family is About Love, Frank Nelson and BJ Barone. They join The Naked Brand to share how their family was thrust into the spotlight almost overnight because of one picture! We delve into The Family Brand and so much more, questioning the true definition of family. Is family just blood or is family the people around you that make you feel loved? How do Brands approach family? Are brands telling the right stories about families? Are brands listening? How inclusive are they actually being? We discuss how blood isn’t always thicker than water; the power of representation and visibility in branding and the responsibility of brands. Spoiler alert: “Family is about love but on the flip side, love isn’t always about family” Thank you all for tuning into Season 1 of The Naked Brand, look out for Season 2 coming in Fall 2021. mcdonalds, gay agenda, family, dove brand, family values yes full 17 1 53268c12-d929-40e2-9caf-f4cbed75196d The Sustainable Brand For years brands have been trying to increase their focus on sustainability. How are they doing? What should they be thinking about and what are some opportunities for brands of all sizes to embed sustainability not just in their business practices but into the way they build their brand?

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Megan Takeda-Tully

Suppli

]]> Thu, 22 Jul 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Jennifer Nugent, Megan Takeda-Tully, Mike Leon, Devon MD Jones) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-sustainable-brand-WunmkSBd For years brands have been trying to increase their focus on sustainability. How are they doing? What should they be thinking about and what are some opportunities for brands of all sizes to embed sustainability not just in their business practices but into the way they build their brand?

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Megan Takeda-Tully

Suppli

]]> The Sustainable Brand Jennifer Nugent, Megan Takeda-Tully, Mike Leon, Devon MD Jones 00:34:58 For years brands have been trying to increase their focus on sustainability. How are they doing? What should they be thinking about and what are some opportunities for brands of all sizes to embed sustainability not just in their business practices but into the way they build their brand? The Naked Brand welcomes Megan Takeda-Tully, the founder and CEO of Suppli – a company that allows consumers to enjoy takeout from their favourite restaurants in reusable containers, skipping the guilt associated with single-use container waste. Prior to founding Suppli, Megan oversaw an impact investment portfolio of more than $100 million, working with entrepreneurs all over the world to tackle social challenges through innovative business models. For years brands have been trying to increase their focus on sustainability. How are they doing? What should they be thinking about and what are some opportunities for brands of all sizes to embed sustainability not just in their business practices but into the way they build their brand? The Naked Brand welcomes Megan Takeda-Tully, the founder and CEO of Suppli – a company that allows consumers to enjoy takeout from their favourite restaurants in reusable containers, skipping the guilt associated with single-use container waste. Prior to founding Suppli, Megan oversaw an impact investment portfolio of more than $100 million, working with entrepreneurs all over the world to tackle social challenges through innovative business models. circular economy, make use dispose, move the movement no full 16 1 05624ffc-302a-4631-ad05-10e9a55f6115 Who Really Owns Brands? There’s not as much legacy and loyalty in the media anymore with the rise of social media, celebrity & pop culture. With a 24-hour news cycle and media personalities jumping from station to station, you're always looking for the next big thing. 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Dave Woodard

]]> Thu, 15 Jul 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Jennifer Nugent, Mike Leon, Dave Woodard, Devon MD Jones) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/who-really-owns-brands-soVuQTQ1 There’s not as much legacy and loyalty in the media anymore with the rise of social media, celebrity & pop culture. With a 24-hour news cycle and media personalities jumping from station to station, you're always looking for the next big thing. 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Dave Woodard

]]> Who Really Owns Brands? Jennifer Nugent, Mike Leon, Dave Woodard, Devon MD Jones 00:28:59 There’s not as much legacy and loyalty in the media anymore with the rise of social media, celebrity & pop culture. With a 24-hour news cycle and media personalities jumping from station to station, you're always looking for the next big thing. Today on The Naked Brand we are excited to welcome Dave Woodard, an award-winning journalist who has spent over 20 years in the broadcasting industry, to look into Who Owns Brands from a media perspective. Brands are usually owned by someone that you don’t usually see. We tackle who really owns the brands? Who makes the decisions? What role does the public play in shaping that brand? And what happens when brands behave badly? Dave Woodard is an award-winning journalist who has spent over 20 years in the broadcasting industry. Senior reporter at Global News Radio in Toronto - Dave has covered some of the biggest stories over the last 2 decades and won a Regional RTDNA award as part of team coverage of the Long-Term Care sector during the first wave of the Pandemic. At home, Dave is married with two children and runs trails like his life depends on it. There’s not as much legacy and loyalty in the media anymore with the rise of social media, celebrity & pop culture. With a 24-hour news cycle and media personalities jumping from station to station, you're always looking for the next big thing. Today on The Naked Brand we are excited to welcome Dave Woodard, an award-winning journalist who has spent over 20 years in the broadcasting industry, to look into Who Owns Brands from a media perspective. Brands are usually owned by someone that you don’t usually see. We tackle who really owns the brands? Who makes the decisions? What role does the public play in shaping that brand? And what happens when brands behave badly? Dave Woodard is an award-winning journalist who has spent over 20 years in the broadcasting industry. Senior reporter at Global News Radio in Toronto - Dave has covered some of the biggest stories over the last 2 decades and won a Regional RTDNA award as part of team coverage of the Long-Term Care sector during the first wave of the Pandemic. At home, Dave is married with two children and runs trails like his life depends on it. we are all in this together, fake news, brands behaving badly no full 15 1 ded58c2d-3a09-4c5e-8c3b-c7d84fd7c9fa The Brand of Play Play has proven to be a powerful force in developing young minds and hearts.  So why not with brands too? Can brands learn from play based learning techniques used by educators to help drive innovation, further diversity and inclusion and promote the general wellbeing of team members and customers? Should brands play more?

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Danielle Saint-Onge on IG

Books by Danielle Saint-Onge

]]> Mon, 12 Jul 2021 12:52:53 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Jennifer Nugent, Mike Leon, Danielle Saint-Onge, Devon MD Jones) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-brand-of-play-rGs3ryRc Play has proven to be a powerful force in developing young minds and hearts.  So why not with brands too? Can brands learn from play based learning techniques used by educators to help drive innovation, further diversity and inclusion and promote the general wellbeing of team members and customers? Should brands play more?

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Danielle Saint-Onge on IG

Books by Danielle Saint-Onge

]]> The Brand of Play Jennifer Nugent, Mike Leon, Danielle Saint-Onge, Devon MD Jones 00:31:34 Play has proven to be a powerful force in developing young minds and hearts. So why not with brands too? Can brands learn from play based learning techniques used by educators to help drive innovation, further diversity and inclusion and promote the general wellbeing of team members and customers? Should brands play more? Danielle Saint-Onge is an elementary educator with extensive experience in early learning and special education who teaches for the Upper Grand District School Board. One of the cornerstones in Danielle’s teaching practice is to enhance a child’s experience in school through empowering parents and caregivers with the knowledge they need to navigate the school system and engage teachers in positive partnerships that promote student achievement and wellbeing. On top of being a full time teacher, Danielle is also a published author of children's fiction and non-fiction books. She believes strongly in the power of play and literacy to bring social change and is active in her school community to support positive play and learning at school and home for families. Play has proven to be a powerful force in developing young minds and hearts. So why not with brands too? Can brands learn from play based learning techniques used by educators to help drive innovation, further diversity and inclusion and promote the general wellbeing of team members and customers? Should brands play more? Danielle Saint-Onge is an elementary educator with extensive experience in early learning and special education who teaches for the Upper Grand District School Board. One of the cornerstones in Danielle’s teaching practice is to enhance a child’s experience in school through empowering parents and caregivers with the knowledge they need to navigate the school system and engage teachers in positive partnerships that promote student achievement and wellbeing. On top of being a full time teacher, Danielle is also a published author of children's fiction and non-fiction books. She believes strongly in the power of play and literacy to bring social change and is active in her school community to support positive play and learning at school and home for families. failure, brand of play, peloton, pivot no full 14 1 0430ef7f-997c-434f-85c3-b31008e22ed4 The Drill Vs. The Hole: A tale of two branders My late father would say “Everybody’s selling something!” And he’s right, we are always selling something. If that’s true then what are we buying?

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Drill vs Hole Article

Brent Closs

]]> Thu, 1 Jul 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Jennifer Nugent, Devon MD Jones, Brent Closs, Mike Leon) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-drill-vs-the-hole-tale-2-branders-2LKEIUwu My late father would say “Everybody’s selling something!” And he’s right, we are always selling something. If that’s true then what are we buying?

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Drill vs Hole Article

Brent Closs

]]> The Drill Vs. The Hole: A tale of two branders Jennifer Nugent, Devon MD Jones, Brent Closs, Mike Leon 00:30:34 My late father would say “Everybody’s selling something!” And he’s right, we are always selling something. If that’s true then what are we buying? Today we host Brent Closs, who is probably one of the only people who loves Brand theory as much as I do :-) Brent Closs is a marketing communications and branding professional whose career and marketing perspective is built upon an education in the Fine Arts. Successful marketing, like successful art, influences the audience in the way you intend. We take another deeper look into The Drill vs. The Hole Theory and also nerd out on multiple brands, their presence and their evolution, between two branders! Brent started in the Marketing field as a graphic designer, expanding his capabilities and experience working for several Canadian Insurance Companies. In these roles Brent led several large-scale rebranding projects and dozens of product and service launch initiatives. Now with CAA Club Group Brand works across most of the organization’s brands, helping one of Canada’s most trusted brands remain relevant and engaged with the Members they serve while building and growing with new audiences. Brent loves to: Guide companies through transformational change, especially building and reinventing brands Make complex topics simple to understand Build high performing teams that drive marketing success by keeping the customer at the center of all decision making Drive content marketing and consumer education programs My late father would say “Everybody’s selling something!” And he’s right, we are always selling something. If that’s true then what are we buying? Today we host Brent Closs, who is probably one of the only people who loves Brand theory as much as I do :-) Brent Closs is a marketing communications and branding professional whose career and marketing perspective is built upon an education in the Fine Arts. Successful marketing, like successful art, influences the audience in the way you intend. We take another deeper look into The Drill vs. The Hole Theory and also nerd out on multiple brands, their presence and their evolution, between two branders! Brent started in the Marketing field as a graphic designer, expanding his capabilities and experience working for several Canadian Insurance Companies. In these roles Brent led several large-scale rebranding projects and dozens of product and service launch initiatives. Now with CAA Club Group Brand works across most of the organization’s brands, helping one of Canada’s most trusted brands remain relevant and engaged with the Members they serve while building and growing with new audiences. Brent loves to: Guide companies through transformational change, especially building and reinventing brands Make complex topics simple to understand Build high performing teams that drive marketing success by keeping the customer at the center of all decision making Drive content marketing and consumer education programs mcdonalds cafe, apple computers, redbull, dyson, dewalt, wash the dishes, black and decker, mcdonalds pizza, caa no full 13 1 3094529c-016c-4e60-91df-cac5ea2f60a2 Why Brands Matter: City Building Edition On The Naked Brand we are always talking about Brands in some shape or form. As the pandemic thunders on the subject of brands are starting to become more mainstream. 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Lanrick Bennett Jr.

#BuildBackBetter

#Nimbyism

]]> Thu, 24 Jun 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon, Jennifer Nugent, Devon MD Jones, Lanrick Bennett Jr.) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/why-brands-matter-city-building-edition-82oBwZh0 On The Naked Brand we are always talking about Brands in some shape or form. As the pandemic thunders on the subject of brands are starting to become more mainstream. 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Lanrick Bennett Jr.

#BuildBackBetter

#Nimbyism

]]> Why Brands Matter: City Building Edition Mike Leon, Jennifer Nugent, Devon MD Jones, Lanrick Bennett Jr. 00:35:09 On The Naked Brand we are always talking about Brands in some shape or form. As the pandemic thunders on the subject of brands are starting to become more mainstream. Why Brands are important? Why People are Brands? How Brands help bring people together through creating culture. And a topic that I’m planning to have multiple episodes on... Why Branding is important now more than ever! In this episode we focus on Why brands are more important than ever... when it comes to Building Cities. We can’t discuss city building without tackling Gentrification and Nimbyism. To delve deep into this topic the Naked brand welcomes Lanrick Bennett Jr., the Managing Director of 8 80 Cities. Lanrick held previous positions as the Hub Manager at Artscape Wychwood Barns, Regional Advisor in the Ontario Provincial Government and Education Officer at the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame. As an advocate for social programs, Lanrick was one half of #JacksLibraryTour, where he and his 5-year-old son visited all 100 Toronto Public Libraries using public transit. He is a year-round urban cyclist who champions protected cycling infrastructure in multiple forms. Taking a page out of his improv training with the Second City, he celebrates the concept of “Yes, And,” which will enable him to keep moving the concepts of 8 80 Cities forward. On The Naked Brand we are always talking about Brands in some shape or form. As the pandemic thunders on the subject of brands are starting to become more mainstream. Why Brands are important? Why People are Brands? How Brands help bring people together through creating culture. And a topic that I’m planning to have multiple episodes on... Why Branding is important now more than ever! In this episode we focus on Why brands are more important than ever... when it comes to Building Cities. We can’t discuss city building without tackling Gentrification and Nimbyism. To delve deep into this topic the Naked brand welcomes Lanrick Bennett Jr., the Managing Director of 8 80 Cities. Lanrick held previous positions as the Hub Manager at Artscape Wychwood Barns, Regional Advisor in the Ontario Provincial Government and Education Officer at the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame. As an advocate for social programs, Lanrick was one half of #JacksLibraryTour, where he and his 5-year-old son visited all 100 Toronto Public Libraries using public transit. He is a year-round urban cyclist who champions protected cycling infrastructure in multiple forms. Taking a page out of his improv training with the Second City, he celebrates the concept of “Yes, And,” which will enable him to keep moving the concepts of 8 80 Cities forward. citybuilding, torontoraptors, gentrification, toronto, nimbyism no full 12 1 116dd741-61ac-4a64-8253-42cfd6f689f7 The Privilege Brand Privilege is a much-discussed and very nuanced term, especially these days. But what does it mean for the way brands truly understand and address the issues of privilege within their organizations? 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Jael Richardson

FOLD Canada 

 

]]> Thu, 17 Jun 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Jennifer Nugent, Mike Leon, Jael Richardson, Devon MD Jones) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-privilege-brand-oBC8ooE_ Privilege is a much-discussed and very nuanced term, especially these days. But what does it mean for the way brands truly understand and address the issues of privilege within their organizations? 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Jael Richardson

FOLD Canada 

 

]]> The Privilege Brand Jennifer Nugent, Mike Leon, Jael Richardson, Devon MD Jones 00:40:43 Privilege is a much-discussed and very nuanced term, especially these days. But what does it mean for the way brands truly understand and address the issues of privilege within their organizations? For brands who are trying to ensure their own story as one that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion, what's the playbook they need to follow to ensure they stay true to it? We explore the unpacking of privilege as: What have you been given? What did you begin with? At whose expense? Jael Richardson is the author of The Stone Thrower: A Daughter’s Lesson, a Father’s Life, a memoir based on her relationship with her father, CFL quarterback Chuck Ealey. The Stone Thrower was adapted into a children’s book in 2016 and was shortlisted for a Canadian picture book award. Richardson is a book columnist and guest host on CBC’s q. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Guelph and lives in Brampton, Ontario where she founded and serves as the Executive Director for the Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD). Her debut novel, Gutter Child is a dystopian story of courage and resilience released in January 2021 with HarperCollins Canada. Privilege is a much-discussed and very nuanced term, especially these days. But what does it mean for the way brands truly understand and address the issues of privilege within their organizations? For brands who are trying to ensure their own story as one that embraces diversity, equity and inclusion, what's the playbook they need to follow to ensure they stay true to it? We explore the unpacking of privilege as: What have you been given? What did you begin with? At whose expense? Jael Richardson is the author of The Stone Thrower: A Daughter’s Lesson, a Father’s Life, a memoir based on her relationship with her father, CFL quarterback Chuck Ealey. The Stone Thrower was adapted into a children’s book in 2016 and was shortlisted for a Canadian picture book award. Richardson is a book columnist and guest host on CBC’s q. She holds an MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Guelph and lives in Brampton, Ontario where she founded and serves as the Executive Director for the Festival of Literary Diversity (FOLD). Her debut novel, Gutter Child is a dystopian story of courage and resilience released in January 2021 with HarperCollins Canada. no full 11 1 dbdb7316-6b5f-4210-bc06-e1f6c605de81 The Culinary Brand Food plays a big role in all our lives and our culture!

As our food expectations evolve from basic fuel to food as an experience, the relationship between people and food has become more complicated. Emotion and guilt have become intertwined with what and how we choose to consume food, which has forced our chefs/cooks to have to adjust how they brand and deliver food. 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

The Grove at Western Fair District

James Smith

]]> Thu, 10 Jun 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon, Devon MD Jones, James Smith, Jennifer Nugent) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-culinary-brand-wkzBChVU Food plays a big role in all our lives and our culture!

As our food expectations evolve from basic fuel to food as an experience, the relationship between people and food has become more complicated. Emotion and guilt have become intertwined with what and how we choose to consume food, which has forced our chefs/cooks to have to adjust how they brand and deliver food. 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

The Grove at Western Fair District

James Smith

]]> The Culinary Brand Mike Leon, Devon MD Jones, James Smith, Jennifer Nugent 00:38:46 Food plays a big role in all our lives and our culture! As our food expectations evolve from basic fuel to food as an experience, the relationship between people and food has become more complicated. Emotion and guilt have become intertwined with what and how we choose to consume food, which has forced our chefs/cooks to have to adjust how they brand and deliver food. In this episode, we welcome chef/cook James Smith, an Aussie who came to Canada 30 years ago, with over 30 years of culinary, academic, and leadership experience. We dive into how we are educating the next generation of chefs to meet these expectations. Which comes first, The Market view or People’s desire? James’ primary passion has always been about food, healthy, and clean eating, hospitality, and culinary arts having trained as a chef and worked at several Toronto landmark restaurants including - Scaramouche, Truffles at the Four Seasons, and Boba restaurants. James also brings a wealth of experience in Food Media having worked on Food Network productions such as Christine Cushing Live, Martin Yan’s Chinatowns, Cook Like a Chef Series, as well as working with Canadian Living Magazine as a writer, and recipe creator. James’ personal education journey includes obtaining a Culinary Management Diploma as well as his Red Seal Chef Certification before he completed his MBA in Hospitality and Tourism from the University of Guelph. James is the Program and Development Manager for The Grove at Western Fair District. The Grove is the District’s agri-business hub where participants share resources, space, and connections to create the right conditions for innovation, education, and growth. Food plays a big role in all our lives and our culture! As our food expectations evolve from basic fuel to food as an experience, the relationship between people and food has become more complicated. Emotion and guilt have become intertwined with what and how we choose to consume food, which has forced our chefs/cooks to have to adjust how they brand and deliver food. In this episode, we welcome chef/cook James Smith, an Aussie who came to Canada 30 years ago, with over 30 years of culinary, academic, and leadership experience. We dive into how we are educating the next generation of chefs to meet these expectations. Which comes first, The Market view or People’s desire? James’ primary passion has always been about food, healthy, and clean eating, hospitality, and culinary arts having trained as a chef and worked at several Toronto landmark restaurants including - Scaramouche, Truffles at the Four Seasons, and Boba restaurants. James also brings a wealth of experience in Food Media having worked on Food Network productions such as Christine Cushing Live, Martin Yan’s Chinatowns, Cook Like a Chef Series, as well as working with Canadian Living Magazine as a writer, and recipe creator. James’ personal education journey includes obtaining a Culinary Management Diploma as well as his Red Seal Chef Certification before he completed his MBA in Hospitality and Tourism from the University of Guelph. James is the Program and Development Manager for The Grove at Western Fair District. The Grove is the District’s agri-business hub where participants share resources, space, and connections to create the right conditions for innovation, education, and growth. no full 10 1 385dc554-5464-4571-a2ad-87d1297fd164 The Mom Brand Mom’s usually hold a special place in our hearts. The presence or absence has a major effect on who we turn out to be.  As the standard of living increases worldwide, and the need for 2 income homes continues to rise, we ask how has the role and perception of the mom brand changed? And how does the marketing to moms need to change?

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Antonia Fifi 

]]> Thu, 3 Jun 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Antonia Fifi, Mike Leon, Devon MD Jones, Jennifer Nugent) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-mom-brand-404U4Q3N Mom’s usually hold a special place in our hearts. The presence or absence has a major effect on who we turn out to be.  As the standard of living increases worldwide, and the need for 2 income homes continues to rise, we ask how has the role and perception of the mom brand changed? And how does the marketing to moms need to change?

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Antonia Fifi 

]]> The Mom Brand Antonia Fifi, Mike Leon, Devon MD Jones, Jennifer Nugent 00:31:35 Mom’s usually hold a special place in our hearts. The presence or absence has a major effect on who we turn out to be. As the standard of living increases worldwide, and the need for 2 income homes continues to rise, we ask how has the role and perception of the mom brand changed? And how does the marketing to moms need to change? With the rise of social influencers and their creation of “authentic” branding. We have seen many mom’s turn their motherhood into a business. In this episode we speak with Antonia (Toni) Fifi, a scholar, an entrepreneur, a successful influencer and of course, a mom! Antonia is a Caribbean bohemian mom of two. With a business degree from the University of Toronto and a degree in Fashion Design from the former International Academy of Design and Technology she started her career as a Fashion Buyer and later opened her own chain of women’s clothing boutiques in Trinidad and Tobago. When her son was diagnosed with developmental delays she closed her businesses to assign the necessary time to his needs. Those needs brought her and her family of four back to Toronto, Canada in 2018. Now a new immigrant, Antonia knew she had to pivot and @tonififi was born. Today she is a motherhood and lifestyle influencer, sharing everything from special needs parenting to fashion. Mom’s usually hold a special place in our hearts. The presence or absence has a major effect on who we turn out to be. As the standard of living increases worldwide, and the need for 2 income homes continues to rise, we ask how has the role and perception of the mom brand changed? And how does the marketing to moms need to change? With the rise of social influencers and their creation of “authentic” branding. We have seen many mom’s turn their motherhood into a business. In this episode we speak with Antonia (Toni) Fifi, a scholar, an entrepreneur, a successful influencer and of course, a mom! Antonia is a Caribbean bohemian mom of two. With a business degree from the University of Toronto and a degree in Fashion Design from the former International Academy of Design and Technology she started her career as a Fashion Buyer and later opened her own chain of women’s clothing boutiques in Trinidad and Tobago. When her son was diagnosed with developmental delays she closed her businesses to assign the necessary time to his needs. Those needs brought her and her family of four back to Toronto, Canada in 2018. Now a new immigrant, Antonia knew she had to pivot and @tonififi was born. Today she is a motherhood and lifestyle influencer, sharing everything from special needs parenting to fashion. fashionablemom, moms, fashion, mothers, mombrand, branding, brands, lifestyle, momfluencer yes full 9 1 a93448cf-cb41-435f-889d-2d157c08486d Branding Change In this episode of The Naked Brand we explore the role of brands during movements of change. How do we stay relevant while also staying true?

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Daniel Roukema

 

]]> Thu, 27 May 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Jennifer Nugent, Daniel Roukema, Mike Leon, Devon MD Jones) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/branding-change-8XXz2s6O In this episode of The Naked Brand we explore the role of brands during movements of change. How do we stay relevant while also staying true?

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Daniel Roukema

 

]]> Branding Change Jennifer Nugent, Daniel Roukema, Mike Leon, Devon MD Jones 00:36:49 In this episode of The Naked Brand we explore the role of brands during movements of change. How do we stay relevant while also staying true? “Pivot” has possibly become our least favourite word. But the truth is, most organizations have had to change what they offer and how they do it in at least some way. “You can’t change community unless they are a part of your structure.” The Naked Brand welcomes special guest Daniel Roukema, an award-winning community economic development and communications leader who has dedicated his career to social impact. As these companies start to pivot, we discuss the how’s and why’s these brands need to start the journey of social change from the top of the organization with internal processes. Daniel is the CEO of MDR Public Affairs, a communications and organizational design agency that supports clients committed to building and supporting safer, healthier, and greener communities. A recognized facilitator, speaker, and instructor, Daniel also works closely with Canadian regulatory bodies promoting the sector’s mandate to protect consumers in a fairer and more informed marketplace. In this episode of The Naked Brand we explore the role of brands during movements of change. How do we stay relevant while also staying true? “Pivot” has possibly become our least favourite word. But the truth is, most organizations have had to change what they offer and how they do it in at least some way. “You can’t change community unless they are a part of your structure.” The Naked Brand welcomes special guest Daniel Roukema, an award-winning community economic development and communications leader who has dedicated his career to social impact. As these companies start to pivot, we discuss the how’s and why’s these brands need to start the journey of social change from the top of the organization with internal processes. Daniel is the CEO of MDR Public Affairs, a communications and organizational design agency that supports clients committed to building and supporting safer, healthier, and greener communities. A recognized facilitator, speaker, and instructor, Daniel also works closely with Canadian regulatory bodies promoting the sector’s mandate to protect consumers in a fairer and more informed marketplace. structure, business, brand, branding, pivot, change, marketing, communications no full 8 1 fa56298b-a3a2-4680-8136-c214f7fc33d9 The Entrepreneurship Brand If we look at entrepreneurship as a brand, what’s the pulse and the personality of that brand? What is the brand of entrepreneurship when you’re creating something out of essentially nothing!

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Joe Canavan

]]> Thu, 20 May 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Mike Leon) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-entrepreneurship-brand-aBnQTAQ4 If we look at entrepreneurship as a brand, what’s the pulse and the personality of that brand? What is the brand of entrepreneurship when you’re creating something out of essentially nothing!

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Joe Canavan

]]> The Entrepreneurship Brand Mike Leon 00:45:32 If we look at entrepreneurship as a brand, what’s the pulse and the personality of that brand? What is the brand of entrepreneurship when you’re creating something out of essentially nothing! In this inspiring episode we explore the evolving brand and scope of the entrepreneur and entrepreneurship itself. The Naked Brand hosts Joe Canavan, a highly regarded executive, a passionate investor and an inspiring entrepreneur. Joe has built and sold several asset-management firms over the years, including GT Global (Canada), Synergy Asset Management and LOGiQ Asset Management. He also had stints as chairman and CEO of Assante Wealth Management (Canada) Ltd. and United Financial Corp. and as director of national sales at Fidelity Investment Canada ULC. Joe has been a mentor and board member at NEXT Canada since it was launched in 2010 as an initiative that aims to foster lifelong entrepreneurship. We speak to Joe about hiring the entrepreneurial/Intrapreneurial mindset; the mental health that entrepreneurs face and The future of entrepreneurship in Canada. If we look at entrepreneurship as a brand, what’s the pulse and the personality of that brand? What is the brand of entrepreneurship when you’re creating something out of essentially nothing! In this inspiring episode we explore the evolving brand and scope of the entrepreneur and entrepreneurship itself. The Naked Brand hosts Joe Canavan, a highly regarded executive, a passionate investor and an inspiring entrepreneur. Joe has built and sold several asset-management firms over the years, including GT Global (Canada), Synergy Asset Management and LOGiQ Asset Management. He also had stints as chairman and CEO of Assante Wealth Management (Canada) Ltd. and United Financial Corp. and as director of national sales at Fidelity Investment Canada ULC. Joe has been a mentor and board member at NEXT Canada since it was launched in 2010 as an initiative that aims to foster lifelong entrepreneurship. We speak to Joe about hiring the entrepreneurial/Intrapreneurial mindset; the mental health that entrepreneurs face and The future of entrepreneurship in Canada. brandcanada no full 7 1 b25ea6f8-87b1-45ff-b01a-fa930b60ac48 The A.I. Powered Human Brand In this episode we take Artificial Intelligence and we apply it to…… I’m sure you guessed it,  Brands!

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Sheldon Fernandez

Darwin AI

]]> Thu, 13 May 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Sheldon Fernandez, Devon MD Jones, Jennifer Nugent, Mike Leon) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-ai-powered-human-brand-CDxib0s7 In this episode we take Artificial Intelligence and we apply it to…… I’m sure you guessed it,  Brands!

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Sheldon Fernandez

Darwin AI

]]> The A.I. Powered Human Brand Sheldon Fernandez, Devon MD Jones, Jennifer Nugent, Mike Leon 00:33:23 In this episode we take Artificial Intelligence and we apply it to…… I’m sure you guessed it, Brands! We explore the idea of whether brands can stay true to their values and personalities as AI powered consumer interactions become a bigger part of the overall brand experience. For example, if I order take-out from an AI powered voice, am I going to feel the same things I would if I was speaking to a human? What is the fine balance between improving process and staying relevant?Does AI become more empathic than a human being? Our special guest is the CEO of Darwin AI, Sheldon Fernandez. His goal is to Illuminate the black box of Artificial Intelligence. Sheldon is a seasoned executive with a deep and expansive academic and professional background across a myriad of subject areas: Computer Science, Enterprise Architecture, Product Development, Artificial Intelligence, philosophy, theology, philanthropy, Creative Writing and Entrepreneurship. An abiding Renaissance man in an era of specialization; technologist, philosopher, teacher and wordsmith rolled into an enigmatic but effervescent whole. Through his leadership of Darwin AI, he wants to systematically innovate across the industry by continually searching for and creating opportunities; creating a sustainable competitive advantage through its world class technology; fostering a creative and equitable environment for all employees. In this episode we take Artificial Intelligence and we apply it to…… I’m sure you guessed it, Brands! We explore the idea of whether brands can stay true to their values and personalities as AI powered consumer interactions become a bigger part of the overall brand experience. For example, if I order take-out from an AI powered voice, am I going to feel the same things I would if I was speaking to a human? What is the fine balance between improving process and staying relevant?Does AI become more empathic than a human being? Our special guest is the CEO of Darwin AI, Sheldon Fernandez. His goal is to Illuminate the black box of Artificial Intelligence. Sheldon is a seasoned executive with a deep and expansive academic and professional background across a myriad of subject areas: Computer Science, Enterprise Architecture, Product Development, Artificial Intelligence, philosophy, theology, philanthropy, Creative Writing and Entrepreneurship. An abiding Renaissance man in an era of specialization; technologist, philosopher, teacher and wordsmith rolled into an enigmatic but effervescent whole. Through his leadership of Darwin AI, he wants to systematically innovate across the industry by continually searching for and creating opportunities; creating a sustainable competitive advantage through its world class technology; fostering a creative and equitable environment for all employees. no full 6 1 ebc593d6-3b43-401d-ad4c-b71e9a1ee479 The Real Brand: Will your real brand please stand up We all wear a lot of hats but, how do you make sure all those hats cover a central story? Joining me on the other side of the mic, I welcome the fearless Producer of the Naked Brand, Devon MD Jones. 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Devon MD Jones Website

Devon MD Jones Instagram

Devon MD Jones Linkedin

]]> Thu, 6 May 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Devon MD Jones, Jennifer Nugent, Mike Leon) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-real-brand-PeMyDAfV We all wear a lot of hats but, how do you make sure all those hats cover a central story? Joining me on the other side of the mic, I welcome the fearless Producer of the Naked Brand, Devon MD Jones. 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Devon MD Jones Website

Devon MD Jones Instagram

Devon MD Jones Linkedin

]]> The Real Brand: Will your real brand please stand up Devon MD Jones, Jennifer Nugent, Mike Leon 00:31:52 We all wear a lot of hats but, how do you make sure all those hats cover a central story? Joining me on the other side of the mic, I welcome the fearless Producer of the Naked Brand, Devon MD Jones. Devon and I have been friends for over 15 years and I’ve seen her wear many hats. From Executive Assistant and Spoken word poet, to a competitor on Canada’s Smartest Person, and now as a Stretch Therapist, Personal Trainer and Administrative Consultant she has navigated many different roles and many industries. But how do you make sure the right side of your brand comes out at the right time? We sit down to discuss how her brand has evolved and how she is able to stay true to her brand no matter what ‘hat’ she is wearing. We all wear a lot of hats but, how do you make sure all those hats cover a central story? Joining me on the other side of the mic, I welcome the fearless Producer of the Naked Brand, Devon MD Jones. Devon and I have been friends for over 15 years and I’ve seen her wear many hats. From Executive Assistant and Spoken word poet, to a competitor on Canada’s Smartest Person, and now as a Stretch Therapist, Personal Trainer and Administrative Consultant she has navigated many different roles and many industries. But how do you make sure the right side of your brand comes out at the right time? We sit down to discuss how her brand has evolved and how she is able to stay true to her brand no matter what ‘hat’ she is wearing. no full 5 1 fed52ddc-cce8-499b-8a7d-fb88646b0ef6 The Drill vs. The Hole: Real Estate Edition The Drill vs. the Hole is one of the best brand theories you may have used, but you’ve probably never heard of. 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Drill vs Hole Article

Jamie Harish on Linkedin

Jamie Harnish on Instagram

]]> Thu, 29 Apr 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Devon MD Jones, Mike Leon, Jamie Harnish, Jennifer Nugent) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-drill-vs-the-hole-real-estate-edition-l4l2672i The Drill vs. the Hole is one of the best brand theories you may have used, but you’ve probably never heard of. 

Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Drill vs Hole Article

Jamie Harish on Linkedin

Jamie Harnish on Instagram

]]> The Drill vs. The Hole: Real Estate Edition Devon MD Jones, Mike Leon, Jamie Harnish, Jennifer Nugent 00:31:07 The Drill vs. the Hole is one of the best brand theories you may have used, but you’ve probably never heard of. Years ago a Prof of mine introduced me to a phrase that would change my life. “Marketers sell the drill, consumers buy the hole,” a paraphrase from legendary Harvard Business School marketing professor Theodore Levitt. Simple words that should be so obvious, except it’s not. Essentially it means: The DRILL: What product / service are you selling? The HOLE: What does it empower your audience to do? Now take it a step further. What is the end experience that ultimately happens because your consumers were able to buy that thing they needed? Figure that out and you are not only selling more than “stuff”, but you are inspiring your audience to sell it for you. That’s the power of this one old statement. See why I love it so much? I invited Jamie Harnish, a residential real estate agent dedicated to help guide his clients and help them navigate the ever-challenging Toronto real estate market. Using his 9 years of prior teaching experience in the maths and sciences, Jamie uses a logical, research-driven approach to help first-time buyers and first-time sellers make smart, educated real estate decisions. The Drill vs. the Hole is one of the best brand theories you may have used, but you’ve probably never heard of. Years ago a Prof of mine introduced me to a phrase that would change my life. “Marketers sell the drill, consumers buy the hole,” a paraphrase from legendary Harvard Business School marketing professor Theodore Levitt. Simple words that should be so obvious, except it’s not. Essentially it means: The DRILL: What product / service are you selling? The HOLE: What does it empower your audience to do? Now take it a step further. What is the end experience that ultimately happens because your consumers were able to buy that thing they needed? Figure that out and you are not only selling more than “stuff”, but you are inspiring your audience to sell it for you. That’s the power of this one old statement. See why I love it so much? I invited Jamie Harnish, a residential real estate agent dedicated to help guide his clients and help them navigate the ever-challenging Toronto real estate market. Using his 9 years of prior teaching experience in the maths and sciences, Jamie uses a logical, research-driven approach to help first-time buyers and first-time sellers make smart, educated real estate decisions. theory, leadership, home buying, business, real estate, brand, realtor, brand theory, sellinghappiness no full 4 1 6a7a8bf4-ac0c-40bc-be7e-096427add811 The True Power of a Brands Story Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

RicardoMcRae.com

Ricardo on Linkedin

Ricardo on Instagram

]]> Thu, 22 Apr 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Ricardo McRae, Jennifer Nugent, Mike Leon, Devon MD Jones) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-true-power-of-a-brands-story-e4_yl7sL Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

RicardoMcRae.com

Ricardo on Linkedin

Ricardo on Instagram

]]> The True Power of a Brands Story Ricardo McRae, Jennifer Nugent, Mike Leon, Devon MD Jones 00:36:00 The True Power of a Brands Story with Ricardo Mcrae When we really talk about brand, we have to talk about the story. The story can do so many things, not just for a brand, but for the organization, from recruiting all the way to PR. Stories are what power the brand in a lot of ways. On the podcast this week Mike invites artist & creative turned financial expert, Ricardo Mcrae, who embodies the spirit of brand storytelling. Ricardo is a licensed financial broker that specializes in helping families and entrepreneurs grow and save money. Before his foray into financial services, Ricardo was the award-winning entrepreneur behind the boutique consultancy, Wedge15. He appears frequently in the media, is a highly sought-after speaker and is the host of The Framing Podcast Podcast. Ricardo is well known for both his TEDx talk and as the Founder of BlackInCanada.com. His website is Canada’s leading source on Black Excellence reaching over 1M people in 100 countries, with 30K+ fans and followers on social. What is your Brand's story? The True Power of a Brands Story with Ricardo Mcrae When we really talk about brand, we have to talk about the story. The story can do so many things, not just for a brand, but for the organization, from recruiting all the way to PR. Stories are what power the brand in a lot of ways. On the podcast this week Mike invites artist & creative turned financial expert, Ricardo Mcrae, who embodies the spirit of brand storytelling. Ricardo is a licensed financial broker that specializes in helping families and entrepreneurs grow and save money. Before his foray into financial services, Ricardo was the award-winning entrepreneur behind the boutique consultancy, Wedge15. He appears frequently in the media, is a highly sought-after speaker and is the host of The Framing Podcast Podcast. Ricardo is well known for both his TEDx talk and as the Founder of BlackInCanada.com. His website is Canada’s leading source on Black Excellence reaching over 1M people in 100 countries, with 30K+ fans and followers on social. What is your Brand's story? leadership, brand, storytelling, power, pr, marketing, brand story, entrepreneurship no full 3 1 bd63dffe-eb97-421f-8070-deef1c6fdaa5 The Virtual Brand Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Camille

]]> Thu, 15 Apr 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Devon MD Jones, Camille, Mike Leon, Jennifer Nugent) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-virtual-brand-BgDf7R_0 Your Naked Brand Website

Mike Leon 

Camille

]]> The Virtual Brand Devon MD Jones, Camille, Mike Leon, Jennifer Nugent 00:29:57 Since the pandemic nobody has become a stranger to virtual. From Virtual calls to Virtual Dance Battles! As we emerge from the pandemic we ask, is virtual going to play a different role or is it just a passing phase? The Naked Brand welcomes Solutions Consultant, Camille to take a deep dive into how we maintain connection and stability within our brand while moving to a virtual world. Camille specializes in creating actionable solutions for businesses to Camille has worked in the upper management tiers of large corporations. From operations management, executive-level management, and corporate restructuring. Known as “The Fixer.” Camille brings corporate locations and entire departments out of the red, and into the black! After a very successful 12-year run, she transitioned out of her career while it was at its peak. “I knew that if I could make corporations successful, I could do the same for passionate entrepreneurs, and myself!” Pulling from her proven methods and intuitive resourcefulness, she helps fellow entrepreneurs breathe life into their vision. Since the pandemic nobody has become a stranger to virtual. From Virtual calls to Virtual Dance Battles! As we emerge from the pandemic we ask, is virtual going to play a different role or is it just a passing phase? The Naked Brand welcomes Solutions Consultant, Camille to take a deep dive into how we maintain connection and stability within our brand while moving to a virtual world. Camille specializes in creating actionable solutions for businesses to Camille has worked in the upper management tiers of large corporations. From operations management, executive-level management, and corporate restructuring. Known as “The Fixer.” Camille brings corporate locations and entire departments out of the red, and into the black! After a very successful 12-year run, she transitioned out of her career while it was at its peak. “I knew that if I could make corporations successful, I could do the same for passionate entrepreneurs, and myself!” Pulling from her proven methods and intuitive resourcefulness, she helps fellow entrepreneurs breathe life into their vision. virtual brand, gigeconomy, business, brand, solutions no full 2 1 6b3b432d-1dec-4574-bd6c-cefb8d427cde The Leadership Brand Your Naked Brand Website

The Leadership Brand Article

Mike Leon 

Josh Siegal

]]> Thu, 8 Apr 2021 04:00:00 +0000 mleon@brandheroes.ca (Jennifer Nugent, Devon MD Jones, Mike Leon, Josh Siegal) https://thenakedbrand.simplecast.com/episodes/the-leadership-brand-svyaesxW Your Naked Brand Website

The Leadership Brand Article

Mike Leon 

Josh Siegal

]]> The Leadership Brand Jennifer Nugent, Devon MD Jones, Mike Leon, Josh Siegal 00:29:24 There’s been a lot said lately about the need for great leadership, but what is a leadership brand and what does it have to do with being a great leader? We explore some of the key elements that I feel make up The Leadership Brand with Josh Siegal. Josh is currently the Vice President of Organizational Effectiveness at Wave, an all-in-one financial management solution small business owners can’t live without. At Wave, Josh leads all things around Talent Acquisition, Learning & Development, and driving Mission & Values. Prior to Wave, Josh has had a breadth of experience in both the private, NFP, and academic fields, even teaching Organizational Behaviour at multiple Universities. In addition to his day job, Josh has been training non-stop as one of ten participants in the 2020 (Reloaded) version of the Fight to End Cancer. These white collar professionals are putting their faces on the line as part of a bigger fight, the fight to end cancer in our lifetime. There’s been a lot said lately about the need for great leadership, but what is a leadership brand and what does it have to do with being a great leader? We explore some of the key elements that I feel make up The Leadership Brand with Josh Siegal. Josh is currently the Vice President of Organizational Effectiveness at Wave, an all-in-one financial management solution small business owners can’t live without. At Wave, Josh leads all things around Talent Acquisition, Learning & Development, and driving Mission & Values. Prior to Wave, Josh has had a breadth of experience in both the private, NFP, and academic fields, even teaching Organizational Behaviour at multiple Universities. In addition to his day job, Josh has been training non-stop as one of ten participants in the 2020 (Reloaded) version of the Fight to End Cancer. These white collar professionals are putting their faces on the line as part of a bigger fight, the fight to end cancer in our lifetime. brand leadership, professional development, leadership, brand, marketing no full 1 1