271. Surviving the Budget Squeeze in Branding and Marketing

We're pressing pause on the podcast, but don't worry, we're not disappearing. Michelle pulls back the curtain on why it's time for a breather, what shifting gears means for creative projects, and how this break is setting the stage for something even better! Make sure you're following us, so you get notified as soon as we're back! 

What does it take to launch a luxury condo brand from the ground up when the building doesn't even exist yet? Step behind the scenes with Michelle as she unveils the strategy, creative moves, and real estate secrets that brought a condo's Milwaukee debut to life. From mastering the art of hype (and keeping things under wraps) to creating irresistible social content and plotting the juiciest lead capture plan ever, this episode is your all-access pass to branding magic and making big decisions. If you've got big brands (or big dreams) to launch, don't miss this one. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Creating an opportunity deck Identifying your positioning map Developing a marketing strategy Setting up Instagram teasers Creating a subscriber access point Designing branded merch Launch marketing plan and outreach Capturing community and lifestyle elements ---------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 268: What Entrepreneurs Need to Know About Brand Merch Episode 262: Mapping Client Touchpoints for Service-Based Businesses Episode 176: Client Case Study: Piano C Property Management ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO.   Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Heartbeat Group Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok -----------------------   -- COFFEE -- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! -- STICKER GIANT -- This episode is sponsored by Sticker Giant. Elevate your branding with labels and stickers that will attract attention in all of the right ways. Bring your designs to life by visiting StickerGiant.com and using promo code MKW25 for 25% off when you spend $150 or more! Code is valid for one-time use only. Expires December 31st 2026. -- ZENCASTR -- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high-quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma -- AUDIBLE -- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma.   This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

In the age of AI overload and digital sameness, it's time to stand out with print. Michelle reveals how what makes good print design and how to make your brand impossible to ignore— from eye-catching direct mail and tactile packaging to look-books people want to keep. Get the inside scoop on luxury catalogs, creative print marketing, hybrid strategies, and why thoughtful snail mail is the ultimate attention hack in 2026. Ready to create something your audience can actually hold onto? Tune in for print ideas, branding best practices, and plenty of inspiration for brands and creatives craving serious longevity. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: The marketing landscape shift from physical to digital Why did print design die in the first place? Value of print today in 2026 What MKW Creative Co. is doing to bring print back How to elevate your print pieces to be multi-functional Current print design trends and opportunities in 2026 Unboxing culture and branded touchpoints in your packaging Ideas for creating curated designs and world-building with packaging Considerations before sending designs off to print ---------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 268: What Entrepreneurs Need to Know About Brand Merch Episode 198: Marketing Without Social Media Episode 147: The Power of Print in the Digital Age with MoreWithPrint ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO.   Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Heartbeat Group Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok -----------------------   -- COFFEE -- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! -- STICKER GIANT -- This episode is sponsored by Sticker Giant. Elevate your branding with labels and stickers that will attract attention in all of the right ways. Bring your designs to life by visiting StickerGiant.com and using promo code MKW25 for 25% off when you spend $150 or more! Code is valid for one-time use only. Expires December 31st 2026. -- ZENCASTR -- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high-quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma -- AUDIBLE -- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma.   This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Patriarchy, performance, and the power of women. This week, Michelle on the podcast (for the 5th time!) with Ashli Pollard to dig deep into what it really takes to smash the status quo in business and beyond. They dive into financial independence, feminist values, and why today's wealth gap isn't accidental. From the wild west of AI and the dark side of tech, to redefining success in a matriarchal light, you'll hear candid takes on what it means to actually support women— plus the unfiltered truth about ambition, allyship, and building something that lasts   Ashli Pollard is a trusted brand strategist and marketing leader with over a decade of experience across consumer and CPG growth, as well as B2B and agency experience. She is the founder of The Do-ers® and Dial Zero Marketing, and has supported globally recognized brands, public figures, and thousands of women founders through clear strategy and strong execution. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Gender bias in everyday design and thoughts on Invisible Women Matriarchal structures Thoughts on capitalism and policy Thoughts on the book Yesteryear Female societal expectations AI's impact on creative jobs Women in tech AI use and ethics Matriarchal vs patriarchal success Societal shifts and feminism ---------------------- RESOURCES: Invisible Women by Caroline Criado-Perez Yesteryear by Caro Claire-Burke Episode 272: Navigating the Ethics of AI in Design with Lauren deVane Episode 155: Beyond the TikTok Ban with Amber and Ashli Episode 121: Let's Thread with Ashli Pollard ---------------------- Guest info: To learn more about Ashli and her work, follow her on Instagram and TikTok @ashli_p, or visit her website, Jointhedoers.com ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO.   Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok -----------------------   -- COFFEE -- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! -- STICKER GIANT -- This episode is sponsored by Sticker Giant. Elevate your branding with labels and stickers that will attract attention in all of the right ways. Bring your designs to life by visiting StickerGiant.com and using promo code MKW25 for 25% off when you spend $150 or more! Code is valid for one-time use only. Expires December 31st 2026. -- ZENCASTR -- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high-quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma -- AUDIBLE -- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma.   This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Ever wish you could hit rewind and start your business with everything you know now? Time travel with Michelle as she shares the ten bold moves she'd make if she restarted MKW Creative Co. today. From building a killer portfolio before posting on socials to negotiating contracts that actually work for you, this episode lays out the playbook for anyone ready to ditch rookie mistakes and build a business that clients can't stop referring. Find out how to nurture your network and get creative with compensation. Let's fast-track your business. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Tip #1: Portfolio first, social media second Tip #2: Identify your referral network and nurture them Tip #3: Contracts and proposals that expire Tip #4: Be kind to the clients you love (grandfather rates) Tip #5: Testimonial-centric content Tip #6: Implement client surveys for data and improvement Tip #7: Create your encyclopedia of knowledge Tip #8: Recognize the risk for first-time clients and compensate creatively Tip #9 Develop a paywall or advanced content Tip #10: Regularly schedule face-to-camera content and prioritizing in-person events ---------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 251: How to Work with MKW Creative Co. in 2026 Episode 202: Creating DIML & Case Study Content Step-by-Step Guide Episode 110: Our Services & How We Work Episode 105: How I Started My Brand Design Business ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO.   Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Heartbeat Group Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok -----------------------   -- COFFEE -- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! -- STICKER GIANT -- This episode is sponsored by Sticker Giant. Elevate your branding with labels and stickers that will attract attention in all of the right ways. Bring your designs to life by visiting StickerGiant.com and using promo code MKW25 for 25% off when you spend $150 or more! Code is valid for one-time use only. Expires December 31st 2026. -- ZENCASTR -- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high-quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma -- AUDIBLE -- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma.   This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

The ethics of AI in design are stirring up more drama than a reality TV reunion, so Michelle and your favorite AI auntie, Lauren deVane, are diving headfirst into what's helpful and what's misdirected rage. Get the inside scoop on creative boundaries, data centers, and why bullying local businesses for using ChatGPT is officially "out." This conversation unpacks how to actually use AI without losing your mind — or your moral compass.   Lauren deVane, also known as @youraiauntie is an ex-Ulta Beauty social creative director turned creative futurist and AI educator. She's taken her 10+ years of creative marketing experience and is now helping visual creatives, marketers, entrepreneurs, and brand builders on how to integrate AI into their existing workflows ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Public perception vs. reality of AI in June 2026 The realities of data centers Ethical dilemmas in tech use Concerns about AI misuse in the US AI safety and video editing advancements Setting boundaries with clients AI vs designer and photographer debate Iterative prompting and accuracy concerns with generative AI AI and modern surveillance Future of Smart Glasses AI and neurodiversity opportunities Getting good content from AI Questioning the authenticity of scripted content Build a community presence ---------------------- RESOURCES: FOF100OFF for $100 off fofcourse.com AND KMA30OFF gets them $30 off Prompty Poppins https://bemusedstudio.myflodesk.com/prompty Episode 216: AI for Brand Designers with Lauren deVane Episode 192: Authenticity and AI with Lauren deVane Episode 162: Leveraging AI Tools for Innovative Marketing with Lauren deVane ---------------------- Guest info: To learn more about Lauren and her distinct style, follow her on Instagram @YouAIAuntie, or visit her websites, FOFCourse.com, TheBemusedStudio.com, and JoinBaisCamp.com. ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO.   Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok -----------------------   -- COFFEE -- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! -- STICKER GIANT -- This episode is sponsored by Sticker Giant. Elevate your branding with labels and stickers that will attract attention in all of the right ways. Bring your designs to life by visiting StickerGiant.com and using promo code MKW25 for 25% off when you spend $150 or more! Code is valid for one-time use only. Expires December 31st 2026. -- ZENCASTR -- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high-quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma -- AUDIBLE -- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma.   This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Is your current marketing strategy going silent? Michelle gives the lowdown on what to do when your marketing spend hits a wall, why "going dark" is basically a brand crime, and exactly how to trim expenses without ditching your strategy. Get the know-how for protecting your brand equity, making your clients stickier than ever, and learning why a little creativity in a crisis might just be your business's superpower. If you're ready to turn those scary budget convos into smart solutions (and stop panicking about your next lead), this is your time to show up, stay seen, and thrive when times get tough. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Building leads through referrals Client retention strategies Budgeting for social media management Repositioning your value Adjusting price and brand strategy Helping corporate escapees freelance Reputation management and economic shifts Protecting your business when multiple clients leave Creative strategy and budgeting tips ---------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 156: Creating a Brag-Worthy Brand Strategy ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO.   Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Heartbeat Group Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok -----------------------   -- COFFEE -- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! -- STICKER GIANT -- This episode is sponsored by Sticker Giant. Elevate your branding with labels and stickers that will attract attention in all of the right ways. Bring your designs to life by visiting StickerGiant.com and using promo code MKW25 for 25% off when you spend $150 or more! Code is valid for one-time use only. Expires December 31st 2026. -- ZENCASTR -- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high-quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma -- AUDIBLE -- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma.   This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Do you feel like social media is just one big popularity contest that leaves you creatively drained? Let's shake things up. Join Manu Muraro shares how to make your brand stand out in a saturated feed, how to actually enjoy content creation, and why celebrating those small wins might be your new secret weapon. From tackling the Instagram algorithm to surviving the world of copycats and award shows, this episode is for every entrepreneur ready to take center stage online.   Manu Muraro is the founder of Your Social Team, a content marketing brand helping small business owners grow through strategic email marketing and Instagram content. Manu is also the creator of The Reelies Awards, the first award show celebrating Small Business Owners and Creators through Instagram Reels. A former creative at Cartoon Network, Manu brings award-winning experience to everything she creates — from email templates to done-for-you social content that saves time and drives results. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Changing role of social media Origin of the Reelies Creating an awards show In-person events Adapting to changes in content The Instagram algorithm and oversaturation over the years Building genuine client relationships Staying on top of social media trends Discussing visual trends in design Discovering and using Unscreen Handling content copying issues Setting up your social media account Creating a presentation outline TikTok's impact on discovery Judging criteria for Reelies Importance of in-person meetings Winning awards for client projects ---------------------- RESOURCES: Get your 1 free entry for the Reelies Blog: Starting a New Instagram Account? Here's what your first 9 posts should be ---------------------- Guest info: To learn more about Manu and Your Social Team, follow her on Instagram and TikTok @YourSocialTeam, Facebook @WeAreYourSocialTeam, and visit her website, YourSocial.Team ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO.   Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok -----------------------   -- COFFEE -- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! --STICKER GIANT-- This episode is sponsored by Sticker Giant. Elevate your branding with labels and stickers that will attract attention in all of the right ways. Bring your designs to life by visiting StickerGiant.com and using promo code MKW25 for 25% off when you spend $150 or more! Code is valid for one-time use only. Expires December 31st 2026. -- ZENCASTR -- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high-quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma -- AUDIBLE -- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma.   This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Feeling like everyone on the Internet has it more together than you? Shannon Keating joins Michelle to get real about the pressure to be perfect, the chaos of social media, and why "rotting" on your phone is stealing your joy. Whether you're stuck in a comparison spiral or need a nudge to put your phone down and actually live, this episode shares the tips on building confidence, finding balance, and remembering you're more than enough.   Shannon Keating is a life coach, Human Design reader, Reiki energy healer, retreat host, public speaker, and co-founder of GEMS, a nonprofit that supports girls in building confidence, connection, and emotional well-being. She specializes in working with young women and teen girls, helping them come home to themselves, trust their intuition, strengthen their self-worth, and create deeply nourishing relationships. Through her coaching, retreats, and healing work, Shannon is passionate about helping women and girls feel deeply rooted in themselves and empowered to create lives and relationships that feel true to them. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Shannon's origin story Common roadblocks for young women Creating social media boundaries Mapping your business out in seasons What Shannon's retreats offer Skill development through Toastmasters The importance of in-person engagement vs. screen time Social learning and group growth ---------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 079: Life According to PR & Human Design Expert Kaila O'Connor Episode 066: Life According to PR Pro Ashley Graham ---------------------- Guest info: To learn more about Shannon, follow her on Instagram @ShannonKeating, Facebook @ShannonKeatingCoach, and visit her website, ShannonKeating.com ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO.   Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok -----------------------   -- COFFEE -- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! --STICKER GIANT-- This episode is sponsored by Sticker Giant. Elevate your branding with labels and stickers that will attract attention in all of the right ways. Bring your designs to life by visiting StickerGiant.com and using promo code MKW25 for 25% off when you spend $150 or more! Code is valid for one-time use only. Expires December 31st 2026. -- ZENCASTR -- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high-quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma -- AUDIBLE -- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma.   This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard

Ever wondered if selling branded merch is worth it, or just another shiny distraction? Michelle pulls back the curtain on what it takes to create merchandise that adds value to your business. From mastering the art of print-on-demand to crafting bespoke gifts that leave a lasting impression, discover the strategic decisions behind every product drop. With insights on platforms, margins, and the delicate dance between brand presence and profit, this will have you rethinking your next merch move. ---------------------- In today's episode we cover the following: The difference between merch and branded items Print on demand services Squarespace vs. Shopify Limited edition product strategy Finding the maximum real estate for your merch Custom products in bulk for conferences Inventory management considerations ---------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 262: Mapping Client Touchpoints for Service-Based Businesses Episode 254: Client Case Study: Studio Tigre Episode 230: Client Case Study: The Galavant Society Episode 131: Building a Merch Brand with Caitlyn Rastetter of Dental Hygiene Nation   ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO.   Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook Group Instagram Tik Tok -----------------------   -- COFFEE -- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! -- ZENCASTR -- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high-quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma. -- AUDIBLE -- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma.   This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard