Marketing Moves

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we chatted with Charlie Anderson, the YouTube creator turned pizza maker behind Cleveland’s viral sensation, Good Pizza. Charlie shares how a pandemic-fueled passion for sourdough baking launched his online following—and ultimately, a brick-and-mortar restaurant serving up artisan New York-style pies. From mastering fermentation to crafting content that converts followers into loyal customers, Charlie dives into the strategy behind blending digital influence with a physical food brand. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at growing a business that’s as much about community and craft as it is about crust.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we sat down with Montana Banner, Director of Project Management and Communications at Thrive Peer Recovery Services. Montana shares Thrive’s inspiring origin story and its mission to support individuals through all stages of recovery, from ER visits to incarceration. She discusses the power of lived experience in building trust, the importance of peer-led programs like Survive to Thrive, and how Thrive addresses underserved populations—including survivors of human trafficking and isolated older adults. With a focus on grassroots outreach and workforce development, Montana offers a powerful perspective on what it means to market hope, healing, and human connection. In need of peer recovery support? Call 1-877-636-3777 or refer at https://thrivepeersupport.com/referrals/. To reach the Cuyahoga County Mental Health Warmline, call 440-886-5950.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, entrepreneur and community builder Manny Larcher shares his journey from his roots in St. Lucia to launching colaeb, a platform helping businesses cut costs and boost efficiency through authentic networking and AI tools. He reflects on the contrast between communal and individualist cultures and how that shaped his approach to leadership, business, and meaningful relationships. Manny shares the founding story of colaeb during the pandemic, the value of face-to-face connection in a digital world, and how problem-solving can be the most effective networking strategy. This episode is packed with practical wisdom on building community, leading with authenticity, and driving growth through strategic collaboration.

This episode of Marketing Moves features Jordan Bigelow and Julian Ayzman, co-founders of YaYa & Co, a sustainable home decor brand making waves with small-batch products and ethical sourcing. The duo shares how co-founder Candy launched YaYa & Co to disrupt fast furniture with community-driven craftsmanship and a mission rooted in social impact. The conversation covers how YaYa & Co markets to values-driven Gen Z shoppers, collaborates directly with artisans, and creates content that reflects their handmade ethos. Plus, they offer a behind-the-scenes look at growing the business, expanding product lines, and building out their new headquarters—all while staying true to their core values.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we are joined by Jackie Wachter, Co-Founder of luxury leather goods brand, FOUNT. In an energizing conversation with Madison Riddell, Jackie shares how a simple Christmas gift idea sparked an omnichannel business rooted in craftsmanship, sustainability, and community. From making each bag by hand alongside her business partner and husband, Phillip, to launching several brick-and-mortar locations and an eCommerce store, the FOUNT story is equal parts heart and hustle. Jackie and Madison dive into the brand’s go-to marketing tactics—like creating hype around “color drops” and launching viral giveaways—and how their retail storefronts create an immersive brand experience. Jackie also unpacks FOUNT's sustainable approach, commitment to repair over replace, and their exciting roadmap for product growth. This episode is full of gems for any brand-builder looking to dominate in premium retail.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, Ali Bonar, co-founder and CEO of Oat Haus, shares how her personal recovery from an eating disorder led to the creation of Granola Butter, the first oat-based spread of its kind. She opens up about the challenges of launching a new product category, the power of organic influencer partnerships, and the strategic storytelling that helped Oat Haus land in major retailers like Whole Foods and Costco. Ali also gets real about the mental health side of entrepreneurship, managing social media pressures, and what’s next for Oat Haus.

In this special episode of Marketing Moves, we take you inside From Bans to Breakthroughs: The 2025 Social Media Situation, a live event hosted at VividFront. With social media platforms in flux, ad costs rising, and emerging players like Neptune and Lemon8 making waves, our expert panel explored the shifting digital landscape and how brands can stay ahead. From leveraging first-party data to optimizing paid social strategies and embracing new content formats, this discussion uncovers the key tactics marketers need to future-proof their strategies. Tune in for actionable insights on diversifying social media approaches, maximizing ROI, and staying agile in an ever-changing market.

Mugsy Bakes co-founders Devin Climer and Nina Lawless share their inspiring journey from healthcare to entrepreneurship, crafting gluten-free, dairy-free desserts that celebrate indulgence without guilt. They discuss building an authentic brand, standing out with innovative packaging, and fostering a loyal community in a competitive market. Balancing motherhood and business, they reveal their approach to sustainability, marketing strategies, and the exciting future of Mugsy Bakes. This episode is a masterclass in turning pass ion into a purpose-driven brand that resonates with consumers.

Entrepreneur and CMO Andy Tran takes us on a dynamic journey from launching an architecture firm in his early career to spearheading Arthur Street Ventures, a powerhouse in venture design and investment. He reveals the secrets to marketing in high-stakes industries like defense and wellness, emphasizing the power of authenticity, bold storytelling, and deep relationship-building. Andy also dives into his work with brands like La Caza Spirits and SISU Lifestyle, sharing how community engagement fuels brand success. With a spirit of adventure and an insatiable curiosity, he unpacks the lessons that have shaped his career and his fearless approach to business and marketing.

This episode of Marketing Moves features Blake Babcock, VP of Client Engagement at Staffing Solutions Enterprises, in a conversation about the power of personal branding in today’s professional landscape. Blake shares insights from his journey in the staffing industry, the evolving world of recruitment, and how professionals can align their personal brands with company values to build trust and credibility. The discussion explores authenticity, the impact of social media on visibility, and strategies for navigating today’s candidate-driven job market.

This episode of Marketing Moves features Owen Hester, CEO and founder of LPx, a platform revolutionizing private fund reporting and investor relations. Owen shares his journey from finance to entrepreneurship, the challenges of marketing a SaaS product in a complex industry, and the growing need for transparency in fund administration. The conversation explores the distinctions between private equity, venture capital, and hedge funds, as well as the role of relationships and word-of-mouth in LPx’s growth. Owen also reflects on his vision for the future of private investing.

This episode of Marketing Moves features Ryan Schreiber, founder of Streamline, an app simplifying the streaming experience by consolidating sports, shows, and movies in one platform. Ryan shares his journey of launching Streamline, balancing startup life with fatherhood, securing funding, and building a loyal community. He highlights the app’s unique social features, sports integration, and user-driven growth. The conversation also explores marketing strategies, influencer collaborations, and the importance of adapting to user feedback in a competitive market.

This episode of Marketing Moves explores the power of branding core values in shaping business culture and client relationships with Heidi Baumgart, co-executive director of the Small Giants Community. Heidi shares her leadership journey and insights on how well-defined values drive decision-making, employee engagement, and customer loyalty. The conversation offers practical strategies for integrating core values into daily operations, making this episode a must-listen for businesses looking to stand out in a competitive market.

On this episode of Marketing Moves, we chat with David Sylvan, Chief Strategy, Innovation, and Marketing Officer at University Hospitals and President of UH Ventures, about the intersection of healthcare innovation and marketing. David provided insights on UH Ventures’ approach to tackling industry challenges through internal development and external partnerships, the role of hospital-affiliated venture capital, and Cleveland’s impact as a healthcare innovation hub. David also shed light on using AI, data, and personalized marketing to enhance patient engagement and transform healthcare delivery.

On this episode of Marketing Moves, we sat down with Darlene Campana, Owner and President of Direct Opinions, to explore the power of customer feedback in driving business growth. Direct Opinions uses customized surveys to uncover valuable insights for B2B and B2C organizations—going beyond satisfaction scores to truly understand customer experiences. Darlene shares her expertise in market research, revealing how feedback can shape marketing strategies, improve operations, and boost revenue. Listen to learn the importance of leadership buy-in and turning insights into action.

On this episode of Mini Moves, we chatted about why HubSpot stands out as a comprehensive CRM solution. We explored HubSpot's marketing-friendly features, which are grounded in inbound principles, and the critical role of team buy-in for successful adoption. We also share tips for evaluating business processes and data models before integration, discuss common CRM pitfalls, and explain why HubSpot is an excellent fit for businesses with long sales cycles and active lead-generation efforts. Tune in for practical advice on optimizing CRM strategies and determining if HubSpot is right for your business.

On this episode of the Marketing Moves podcast, we interviewed Lindsey Gamble, an Influencer Marketing & Creator Economy Consultant and Advisor, recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice in the Creator Economy. Lindsey shares his journey to becoming a prominent industry expert, with insights from his time at Mavrck (now Later). The discussion explores the evolution of influencer marketing, the rising importance of creators in both B2B and B2C strategies, and Lindsey’s tips for building a standout LinkedIn presence. They also tackle hot topics like TikTok’s regulatory hurdles and the transformative potential of AI in the creator economy. Tune in to learn how brands can forge authentic creator partnerships, diversify marketing strategies, and navigate the ever-changing digital landscape.

On this episode of Marketing Moves, we interviewed Justis Mendez, managing partner at OneSixOne Ventures, about his inspiring rise from a challenging upbringing to leading the way in venture capital. Mendez shares his journey in the tech industry, his work supporting startups in enterprise software and government tech, and the key role of community and relationships in the startup ecosystem. The conversation also explores his collaboration with Jake Paul on BETR, a revolutionary micro-betting platform, and how innovation in sports tech intersects with venture capital. Discover insights on founder-market fit, fundraising, and marketing strategies for emerging companies in this compelling conversation.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we sat down with Mac Anderson, co-founder and chief commercial officer of Cleveland Kitchen, the top kraut and kimchi brand in the U.S. Mac shares the journey from farmers' markets to CPG success, revealing key marketing strategies, the power of influencer partnerships, and the role of consumer education in promoting fermented foods. Discover how Cleveland Kitchen blends quality, sustainability, and community to thrive in a competitive market.

On this episode of Marketing Moves, we sat down with Matt Buder Shapiro, Chief Marketing Officer of Vytalize Health, to explore the strategies behind the fastest-growing private company in the U.S. Matt shares his entrepreneurial journey, insights into Cleveland's thriving startup scene, and the innovative tactics driving success in healthcare marketing. From cultivating trust with primary care physicians to leveraging personalized medicine, Matt offers actionable advice for navigating the complexities of the healthcare tech industry. Tune in to discover how relationships and innovation can transform patient care.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we chatted with Franco Kraiselburd, the founder and CEO of Asclepii, a biotech startup redefining regenerative medicine. Franco discusses his inspiring journey from scientist to entrepreneur, the groundbreaking Artemis technology, and his mission to make advanced medical treatments affordable and accessible to all. Along the way, he shares valuable insights on mentorship, personal branding, and navigating challenges as a young founder in healthcare. Don’t miss this thought-provoking conversation about innovation, passion, and the future of medicine.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, John Ghiorso, founder of Orca Pacific, shares his journey from leading a top Amazon-focused agency to creating a venture studio for scaling marketing agencies. He discusses the importance of timing, niche specialization, LinkedIn strategies, and streamlining operations with the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). John also highlights the role of strong general managers in building teams and driving growth, offering actionable insights for agency success in today’s digital landscape.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we sat down with Adam Wilde, CEO of TRG Multimedia, as he shared how his company is redefining content creation through high-quality video, photography, and CGI. From his journey as a creative professional to TRG's innovative approach to storytelling, Adam dives into the importance of investing in quality content to scale your brand. Learn about TRG's comprehensive services, their client-first philosophy, and future trends in marketing content. Plus, Adam offers final advice for brands looking to streamline their content strategy.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we sat down with Connor Balderson, Marketing Manager at Market Garden Brewery, to uncover the art and strategy behind marketing in the craft beer industry. From maintaining brand authenticity to building impactful partnerships, the conversation dives deep into how the brewery balances tradition, innovation, and community engagement. Tune in to explore the evolving trends in beer marketing and how Market Garden Brewery is staying ahead in the competitive craft beer scene.

In this episode of Mini Moves, our team sat down to unpack the evolving world of marketing attribution. As privacy regulations and the decline of third-party cookies reshape attribution, we share strategies for measuring meaningful conversions throughout the funnel. We also discuss the role of AI and media mix modeling in tackling these challenges, offering listeners a fresh, holistic approach to evaluating marketing success.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we sat down with Dan Perella, a trailblazer in the consumer products industry, to explore his journey from co-founding Ideastream Consumer Products to helping lead Chagrinovations. Dan shares invaluable lessons on the power of consumer feedback in shaping success​​ful products, overcoming scaling challenges, and building lasting relationships with suppliers. He also dives into the evolving role of social media and e-commerce in modern marketing, offering actionable insights for marketers and entrepreneurs eager to innovate in the consumer space.

Dana Allender, Founder of SUN - We Grow You, and Kyle Mollison, Director of B2B Marketing at VividFront, dive into a dynamic debate on whether sales or marketing leads the way in B2B success. Dana focuses on relationship-building and understanding customer needs, while Kyle highlights the power of targeted strategies and AI-driven personalization. They emphasize the importance of aligning both teams to generate leads, close deals, and sustain growth, wrapping up with a Q&A on fostering collaboration.

On this episode of Marketing Moves, we sat down with Andrew Rising, Managing Partner of Encore Venture Labs, a Cleveland-based venture studio. Listen as Andrew talks about his professional journey, Encore’s mission to fuel regional growth by tapping into Cleveland’s industrial roots, and the studio’s unique approach to building businesses from scratch. Andrew discusses the power of founder-led marketing, the importance of community-driven innovation, and Encore’s focus on sectors like advanced manufacturing and clean energy. This insightful conversation unpacks the keys to creating sustainable ventures through authentic, market-aligned strategies.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we sat down with Brooke Sirak, VP of Kaulig Capital, to talk about her path into investment banking and her current leadership role. She shares insights on building meaningful relationships post-COVID, overcoming challenges for women in finance, the importance of mentorship, and achieving work-life balance. Plus, she offers inspiring advice for women stepping into leadership roles.

On this episode of Marketing Moves, we are joined by Rachna Lathar, Commercial Strategy Director at Jumpstart, to talk about the impressive growth of Ohio VC Fest. Learn how the event scaled from 550 to 700 attendees in just nine months through strategic marketing, featuring LinkedIn outreach, personalized communication, and more. Rachna also shares event highlights, from startup showcases to a panel on resilience for women entrepreneurs, and offers a sneak peek at planning for 2025. Perfect for event marketers and startup enthusiasts alike.

In this Mini Moves, we sat down with Kyle Mollison, the Director of B2B Marketing at VividFront, to explore how small and mid-sized B2B brands can create scalable digital go-to-market strategies. Drawing from his extensive background in industrial B2B advertising, the conversation compares digital/inbound strategies with sales-led approaches and emphasizes how SMBs can leverage digital experiences to build customer trust. Tune in to learn how to map out your customer’s journey and craft a strategy that resonates in today's digital-first world.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we chatted with AI education expert Doan Winkel about his journey to becoming a pioneer in AI-driven learning. Listen as we explore how AI is transforming education by boosting efficiency, personalizing learning experiences, and reshaping teacher-student interactions. Doan also shares practical AI applications in the classroom and addresses common misconceptions, highlighting the profound impact AI can have on modern education.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we sat down with Kris Snyder, Chief Revenue Officer at Ninety and founder of Impact Architects. Kris shares his entrepreneurial journey, from growing up in a farming community to scaling companies like Vox Mobile during the dot-com era. Learn how EOS (Entrepreneurial Operating System) helps streamline operations, and discover how Ninety's platform is driving data-driven decision-making and accountability in organizations. Plus, Kris hints at the future of AI and automation in business processes. Tune in for insights on entrepreneurship, technology, and efficiency!

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we chat with Natalie Bell, a prominent content creator and founder of The City Social. Natalie shares her journey and offers insights into her approach to social media and shares her story on building a singles community through The City Social. Natalie's story illustrates the intersection of personal authenticity and strategic planning in building successful social media and community-driven business ventures.

In this episode of Mini Moves, Keenya Kelly, a video marketing and social media strategist, dives deep into how businesses can harness the power of TikTok for growth. Focusing on her work with female entrepreneurs, product-based businesses, and consultants, Keenya shares actionable strategies for leveraging TikTok shop, creating authentic content, and collaborating with influencers. Tune in for insights on why staying proactive on TikTok is crucial for your business success.

In this episode of Marketing Moves, Jeffrey Stern, Principal of O.H.I.O. Fund and Co-Founder of Axuall, talks about his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the significance of open communication in startups. He discusses his Lay of the Land podcast, designed to inspire Cleveland's entrepreneurial community. Jeffrey shares insights on the O.H.I.O. Fund and highlights the power of storytelling in attracting venture capital.

Last month we held our inaugural Christmas in July panel discussion here at VividFront! We brought together industry experts to share valuable insights on how e-commerce brands can effectively prepare for the upcoming Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales. The panel included Aaron Saks, President of Green Paper Products, and our very own VividFront specialists, Toni Pekar and Nate Statt. Together, they discussed actionable marketing strategies that brands can implement now to ensure success during the holiday shopping season.

On this episode of Marketing Moves, we are joined by Sam Duvall, President of Topnotch Management. Listen as Sam talks about all things Tennis in the Land powered by Rocket Mortgage. Learn the innovative marketing strategies that Sam and his team used, how they fostered key partnerships with Rocket Mortgage and Rocket Entertainment Group to deliver enhanced player and fan experiences, and about the Changeover initiative focused on making tennis more accessible.

On this episode of Marketing Moves, we interviewed Baiju Shah, President and CEO of the Greater Cleveland Partnership. Discover how Baiju, a Cleveland native, is spearheading efforts to revitalize the city. Learn about GCP's focus on dynamic businesses, talent growth, inclusive opportunities, and community appeal. Listen to learn about success stories that highlight Cleveland's potential for growth and why it’s an attractive place to live.

On this episode of Marketing Moves, we are joined by Dallas Hogensen, co-founder and CEO of Felux, a B2B marketplace transforming the steel industry. Dallas discusses his journey from working at companies like Lyft to developing Felux in Ohio. He shares how Felux addresses technology gaps, their new Account-Based Marketing strategy, and achieving $16 million in revenue without prior marketing. Tune in for a deep dive into the future of the steel industry and Felux's innovative approach, including their use of AI, plans for a venture capital fund, and commitment to the Midwest startup ecosystem.

In this Mini Moves episode, we dive into the importance of content creation with an in-house content creator and brand specialist. Learn why every brand must prioritize content in their marketing strategy and discover actionable insights on staying authentic, leveraging trends, and creating impactful content that resonates with your audience. Don't miss tips for aspiring content creators and a pitch to business owners on the future of social media marketing.

Co-founder of GrooveRyde, a former boutique fitness studio in Cleveland, Zosimo Maximo, shares his journey from working in film production and creative direction for Fortune 500 companies to co-founding a unique fitness boutique and private social club in Cleveland. Listen as Zosimo shares his secrets to brand consistency and invaluable advice for creatives! You won’t want to miss this exciting dive into all aspects of being a serial creative. Press play to listen now!

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we are joined by David Gilbert, the President and CEO of Destination Cleveland and the Greater Cleveland Sports Commission. David shares his journey and the strategic efforts behind promoting Cleveland as a premier destination for major sporting events. Learn about the marketing tactics, community engagement, and economic benefits that come with hosting high-profile events. Discover how Cleveland's unique appeal and robust planning process have successfully attracted events like the Women's Final Four. Tune in for an insightful discussion on the challenges and triumphs of positioning Cleveland on the national stage, and gain invaluable marketing insights applicable to any city or business looking to scale. Click the play button to listen now!

In this episode of Marketing Moves, we sit down with Russ Bates, the visionary CEO of NXTGEN Clean Energy Solutions, to explore the transformative impact of clean energy on small to medium-sized businesses (SMBs). Russ shares insights on how NXTGEN helps businesses achieve their sustainability goals while enhancing their bottom line. Discover the importance of sustainability policies, the role of clean energy products like solar panels and EV charging stations, and the value of customized solutions. Learn how embracing sustainability can attract eco-conscious customers, talented employees, and investors. Tune in to uncover actionable strategies and inspiring initiatives that can digitally scale your business and contribute to a greener future. Click the play button to listen now!

We sat down with the Mayor of Cleveland, Justin Bibb, to discuss his inspiring journey from the private sector to the heart of Cleveland's political landscape. Tune in to hear Mayor Bibb's actionable plans and his vision for a brighter, more prosperous Cleveland. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in urban development, political strategy, and the future of this great city.

Learn about the evolution of influencer brand trips from YouTube to TikTok. In this episode of Mini Movies, we tackle the costs, logistics, and smart cost-cutting hacks of influencer brand trips, while addressing criticisms of extravagance and brand disconnect. Learn how diverse and micro-influencers are changing the game, featuring stories like Jenna Palek’s influencer and Waterboy’s customer-inclusive trips. You won’t want to miss this exciting look into the world of influencer brand trips, press play to listen now.

A lifetime of exposure to technology has significantly shaped Gen Z’s behavior when it comes to purchasing habits and media consumption. Andrew Roth, Founder and CEO of dcdx, helps businesses better understand and connect with Gen Z through tailored marketing. He joins Marketing Moves to talk about his research business, the relevance of Gen Z culture, favorite brands amongst Gen Z, and how to speak their language. If you want to appeal to Gen Z as a marketer, click here and press play!

Want to engage a community? Sell love – that’s the key, according to Kumar Arora, CEO of Arora Ventures. Behind everything he does as an entrepreneur, he contemplates how he can positively impact those around him. He joins this episode to discuss turning your brand into a gift for others, the importance of content, overcoming the battle scars, making time for silence, and how to leave a legacy as a business owner. If you want to leave your mark as an entrepreneur, start now, by listening to this week's episode.

In the non-profit sector, marketing should remain a critical priority despite common resource challenges. John Litten, President & CEO of the Greater Cleveland Habitat for Humanity, encourages nonprofit leaders to focus on storytelling. He joins Marketing Moves to talk about the nuances of non-profit marketing, cultivating volunteers, measuring success, and maintaining good rapport within the community. If you're a nonprofit leader looking to better connect with your audience, tune in for this week’s episode!

Let’s Talk Shoptalk: Ft. Nate Statt and Joe Testa (VividFront) Join VividFront Director of Web Accounts Nate Statt and Chief Technology Officer Joe Testa as they break down Shoptalk, the conference highlighting the latest and greatest in the commerce space. They talk what worked and what didn’t, their favorite sessions, what the networking was like, and a white-out beach party that included Ludacris. Yes, that Ludacris. If you’re into ShopTalk and to learn more about these types of events, grab a snack and press play!