Personal Branding Power Tips In this episode of the Brand Design Masters podcast, Philip delves into an advanced perspective on personal branding, which he dubs 'Personal Branding 2.0'. Philip explores the evolution of personal branding and discusses how creative professionals can leverage new platforms and formats, like short-form video on TikTok and Instagram Reels, to build an authentic presence. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling, community building, and collaboration in establishi...
Jun 11, 2025•12 min•Ep. 157
The Best LinkedIn Video Strategy for 2025 In this episode of the Brand Design Masters podcast, Philip addresses the often-overlooked potential of LinkedIn for video marketing. He discusses the importance of understanding different LinkedIn video formats, including feed videos, short videos, and LinkedIn Live, emphasizing their unique advantages. Philip outlines a seven-step guide to leveraging LinkedIn video to attract an ideal audience, starting with understanding video formats and starting sma...
Mar 17, 2025•12 min•Ep. 156
10 Mistakes Small Businesses Will Make This Year If you’re a small business owner, agency, or freelancer working with small businesses, this episode is a must-listen. I’m breaking down the 10 biggest mistakes small businesses will make this year—mistakes that can slow growth, hurt profits, or even put you out of business if you’re not careful. From ignoring AI and automation to neglecting customer retention , these missteps can mean the difference between thriving and struggling. The good news? ...
Mar 03, 2025•12 min•Ep. 155
Have you ever wondered how AI tools like ChatGPT, Gemini, or Bard decide which content to recommend? If you're a content creator looking to expand your reach, this episode is a must-listen. I recently had a game-changing conversation with someone who discovered my work—not through YouTube or Google, but through ChatGPT. That’s when it hit me: AI-driven recommendations are a massive, untapped opportunity for creators. Unlike traditional SEO, these AI tools don’t rank content the same way Google d...
Feb 24, 2025•14 min•Ep. 154
How to Find a Job in the Creative Industry Landing a job in today’s creative industry isn’t easy—especially if you’re mid-to-late career. But it’s far from impossible. In this solo episode, I break down five proven strategies to help you stand out in a competitive job market, refine your approach, and ultimately secure the role you’ve been striving for. We’ll cover: • How to tailor your resume for Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and hiring managers • The key updates you need to make on your Lin...
Feb 17, 2025•12 min•Ep. 153
Networking Strategies for Designers and Entrepreneurs Episode 152 In this episode, Philip explores how networking has evolved with the rise of remote work and digital platforms. He shares innovative, non-standard networking tactics that go beyond traditional methods such as industry mixers and LinkedIn messages. Philip emphasizes the importance of a strong online presence and gives actionable tips for optimizing platforms like LinkedIn, Behance, and Dribbble. He also introduces niche platforms, ...
Feb 10, 2025•14 min•Ep. 152
Best Content Marketing Strategy for 2025 Episode 151 A great content marketing strategy includes more than just producing and posting as much as possible. That’s why I’m breaking down the most impactful shifts in content marketing for 2025 and beyond. This episode dives into the strategies that are working right now—based on trends in audience behavior and the changing tools of the trade. Whether you're building a brand, growing a business, or amplifying your career, these insights will help you...
Feb 03, 2025•17 min•Ep. 151
The Power of Brand Alignment with Brandon Coleman, Jr. In this episode, Philip welcomes Brandon Coleman, Jr., a legend in branding and strategic consulting with over five decades of experience. Brandon discusses his journey in branding, launching a successful strategic branding firm, and writing his book, 'Brand On!: the Hidden Power of Brand Alignment.' He emphasizes the importance of brand alignment, sharing actionable insights and real-life examples to help entrepreneurs and businesses amplif...
Jan 27, 2025•32 min•Ep. 150
In this episode of the Brand Design Masters podcast, host Philip delves into the journey from designer to creative director. He outlines five key steps: gaining exposure to upper management, managing and mentoring others, mastering project planning and delivery, managing clients and presentations, and being solutions-oriented. Philip emphasizes the importance of visibility, leadership skills, reliability, strategic thinking, and solving problems. He also highlights a crucial 'power-up' bonus ste...
Jan 20, 2025•15 min•Ep. 149
Experience Transformative Growth with Joseph Bojang In this episode, Philip welcomes special guest Joseph Bojang, a certified coach with expertise in human behavior, marketing, and business. Joseph shares his unique journey from running a marketing agency to becoming a transformational coach. The discussion explores the difference between problems and dilemmas, the significance of archetypes in personal development, and the importance of mindfulness practices. They delve into overcoming business...
Jan 13, 2025•39 min•Ep. 148
In this episode of the Brand Design Masters Podcast, Philip interviews Amanda Webb, Owner of Spiderworking , who specializes in digital marketing ROI, Google Analytics, and analytics mentoring. Amanda shares her journey from film to digital marketing, insights into optimizing marketing efforts through analytics, and the importance of understanding data for business growth. They discuss topics including content creation, the ROI Escalator process, UTM tracking, AI in analytics, measuring marketin...
Jan 06, 2025•42 min•Ep. 147
In this episode of the Brand Design Masters podcast, host Philip welcomes Ash Chow, a launch strategist and conversion copywriter, who shares her journey from law school to becoming a renowned copywriter for creators and coaches. They discuss the fundamentals of effective copywriting, understanding client pain points, and the importance of pre-launch content. Ash also explains her 'power framework' for successful launches and shares insights on the impact of AI on the copywriting industry. Wheth...
Dec 30, 2024•42 min•Ep. 146
7 Ways to Future-Proof Your Career Episode sponsored by: Wix Studio https://wixstudio.com In this episode, Philip shares invaluable insights on how to future-proof your career amidst inevitable changes and challenges. He recounts his own seven major career pivots, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, continuous learning, and expanding skill sets. Philip discusses current threats such as AI in design, the rise of independent contractors, and the shifting dynamics in the agency world, while...
Dec 23, 2024•30 min•Ep. 145
Episode sponsored by: Wix Studio https://wixstudio.com In this episode of the Brand Design Masters podcast, host Philip VanDusen welcomes David Brier, owner of DBD International and author of 'Rich Brand Poor Brand: How to Unleash Your David in a World of Goliaths' delve into the recent controversial Jaguar rebrand and its potential implications, discussing whether it is a bold risk or a disastrous move. They explore key themes from David's new book, including the importance of corporate culture...
Dec 16, 2024•38 min•Ep. 144
Loren Greiff: Navigating the Job Market Today Episode Sponsored by: Wix Studio https://wixstudio.com On this episode of the Brand Design Masters podcast, Philip welcomes career coach and strategist Lauren Greiff . Her company PortfolioRocket is a proprietary career curriculum enabling people to GET FOUND for 80-85% of the job opportunities that are not posted online - a methodology that treats executive job seeking like what it really is: a strategic campaign to claim your worth. In our chat, Lo...
Dec 09, 2024•39 min•Ep. 143
How to Find Freelance Clients Podcast sponsor: Wix Studio https://wixstudio.com This episode delves into effective methods for securing freelance clients. It explores two primary approaches: promotion, where you actively reach out to potential clients, and attraction, where you draw clients to you through strategic actions. Key topics include leveraging personal connections, the importance of personalized communication, the power of video messaging, and the use of advertising on platforms like F...
Dec 02, 2024•38 min•Ep. 142
Email List Building: Strategies and Tips Podcast sponsor: Wix Studio https://wixstudio.com In this episode, the Philip discusses the importance of building an email list and offers practical advice on how to create and grow one effectively. Emphasizing the value of owning your marketing real estate, the speaker provides step-by-step guidance on acquiring email subscribers, choosing the right email service provider, and using content as a lure. Various lead magnet ideas such as ebooks, checklists...
Nov 25, 2024•24 min•Ep. 141
Top 10 Branding Trends for Small Businesses in 2024 Podcast sponsor: Wix Studio https://wixstudio.com In this episode, the discussion centers on the top 10 branding trends that small businesses should focus on in 2024. The key trends highlighted include building a compelling digital presence, leveraging social media for branding, adopting sustainable and ethical branding practices, and personal branding for entrepreneurs. Other crucial points cover the significance of content marketing, targetin...
Nov 18, 2024•11 min•Ep. 140
Episode Sponsored by: Wix Studio: https://wixstudio.com In this candid and informal rant, Philip shares nine crucial pieces of advice for creative professionals navigating today's challenging job market. Drawing from over 30 years of experience, Philip emphasizes the importance of self-advocacy, understanding HR's role, building a personal brand, and maintaining a mindset of continual learning. He also discusses industry ageism, the significance of networking, having a versatile skill set, and t...
Nov 11, 2024•25 min•Ep. 139
In this episode of the Brand Design Masters podcast, host Phillip VanDusen welcomes Robert Smith, an internationally recognized branding expert, professor, and author. They discuss the importance of investing time in oneself rather than focusing on transient technical skills, emphasizing the value of creativity, peer interaction, and mental health. Robert shares insights from his latest book 'Stop Looking for Zebras', which guides creative professionals on achieving long-term career success. Key...
Nov 04, 2024•42 min•Ep. 138
In this episode, I sit down with Maureen Clough, a passionate advocate for age inclusion and the host of the popular podcast It Gets Late Early. Maureen is a former journalist and director of strategic partnerships for a variety of tech companies turned speaker, podcaster, and career strategist for professionals over 40. Her advocacy has been highlighted in outlets such as Wired, Business Insider, and Inside Edition. Maureen first caught my attention with a viral LinkedIn post reacting to the ag...
Oct 28, 2024•56 min•Ep. 137
Career Pivot Strategies for Creative Pros If you're a seasoned creative professional ready for a career pivot this episode is for you. In it I share proven career transition strategies tailored for mid-late career designers, branding experts, and creative professionals. Learn how to navigate shifts in your career, diversify your income with freelancing or consulting, and pursue more fulfilling work by leveraging your years of experience. I discuss key topics like up-skilling in digital marketing...
Oct 21, 2024•49 min•Ep. 136
Episode Sponsored by: WIX STUDIO: https://wixstudio.com In this episode, I explore how to build confidence as a creative professional and why it’s crucial for success in the creative and entrepreneurial world. Confidence isn't just about constant success; it's about embracing failure, pushing beyond your comfort zone, and doing things that scare you. I'll share insights on how resilience, not perfection, is the true foundation of confidence, and why small, consistent risks can significantly boos...
Oct 14, 2024•13 min•Ep. 135
Mentioned: Wix Studio: https://wixstudio.com BONFIRE Mastermind Community https://philipvandusen.com/bonfire What are the top trends in social media marketing for 2024-2025 that are set to redefine how brands and creators connect with their audiences? Whether you're a freelancer, a small business owner, or managing social media for a company, these insights are essential for staying ahead in the fast-evolving digital landscape. In this episode, you'll learn how YouTube has emerged as the top pla...
Oct 07, 2024•17 min•Ep. 134
Mentioned: BONFIRE Mastermind Community https://philipvandusen.com/bonfire Let's dive into the state of the web design industry for 2024-2025. We'll discuss creative fulfillment, financial success, collaboration, and the impact of AI. You'll learn how small teams can earn more, why the highest paid web designers use project-based pricing, and how to overcome common industry challenges like finding more clients and burnout. You'll also discover how creatively fulfilled web designers tend to be mo...
Sep 30, 2024•13 min•Ep. 133
Mentioned in this episode: BONFIRE: The Mastermind Community for Established Creative Pros https://philipvandusen.com/bonfire Building a meaningful and profitable network is crucial for small business and agency success. In this episode, I reveal 10 powerful strategies that will elevate your networking game and help you create valuable connections. You'll learn how to leverage social media platforms, attend industry events, and join professional groups to expand your reach and make lasting conne...
Sep 23, 2024•11 min•Ep. 132
Mentioned in this episode: BONFIRE: The Mastermind Community for Established Creative Pros https://philipvandusen.com/bonfire AI is transforming the digital landscape, especially creative branding and design agencies and staying ahead is crucial. In this episode, discover how integrating AI into your processes can enhance creativity, streamline services, and drive growth. Learn about the rise of AI and its benefits, like automating repetitive tasks and personalizing content. I’ll also share insi...
Sep 16, 2024•11 min•Ep. 131
Every agency needs more clients! Running a successful branding, design, or creative agency isn’t easy. Beyond delivering top-notch work, continuously bringing in new clients is critical. In this video, I’ll share the #1 POWER TIP for client acquisition that you might not be using yet! We’ll cover essential strategies: understanding your target audience, building a strong online presence, networking, and leveraging content marketing. You’ll also discover how to utilize a CRM to optimize your sale...
Sep 09, 2024•10 min•Ep. 130
Let’s do a deep dive into the journey of becoming a Creative Director! In this episode, I’ll dispel common myths and provide a detailed roadmap on how to rise through the ranks in the creative industry. You’ll learn why hands-on experience in design, copywriting, video editing, UX/UI, and other creative fields is essential, and why you can't just jump straight into a senior management role without experience as a designer. We’ll cover the importance of mentorship, taking and giving constructive ...
Sep 02, 2024•16 min•Ep. 129
Are you struggling with anxiety and fear around your career? Stressed and unmotivated? Or spinning and not sure how to focus in a really productive way? Our world is filled with constant challenges—whether it’s the looming threat of AI on creative jobs, the trend of companies hiring part-time contractors over full-time employees, or the relentless barrage of notifications and distractions—we need effective strategies to stay resilient and focused. In this episode, I share practical tools, tactic...
Aug 05, 2024•45 min•Ep. 128
