Unlock the secrets to running a thriving PR and marketing agency in this episode of Marketing Agency Power Hour! Host Cal Wilder sits down with Ethan Rasiel, co-founder and CEO of Lightspeed PR & Marketing, to uncover what it takes to build lasting client relationships, manage crises with confidence, and grow a global agency with integrity.

From mastering client communication to building resilient teams and responsibly integrating AI, Ethan shares his hard-earned lessons from decades in both agency and in-house roles, including at Edelman and Samsung. Get ready to rethink how you communicate your value, train your clients, and lead your team toward sustainable success in today’s fast-paced marketing world.

Takeaways:

• Don’t assume clients know what happens behind the scenes. By proactively communicating wins and processes, agencies reinforce their value and strengthen client trust.
• Many clients don’t naturally know how to collaborate effectively with agencies. Honest, “tough love” feedback builds healthier, more successful long-term relationships.
• The best agencies tell clients what they need to hear, not just what they want to hear. Protecting your team from toxic clients ensures your culture and productivity thrive.
• Agency success depends on empowering teams to operate independently. By promoting flexibility, work-life balance, and accountability, leaders can prevent burnout and create an agency that runs smoothly, even without the founder’s constant involvement.
• AI can streamline research and drafting, but human oversight is essential for quality and authenticity. Specialization in emerging fields can position an agency as an industry leader while maintaining trust and precision.

Connect with Ethan:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ethan-rasiel-03998/
• Lightspeed PR & Marketing’s Website: https://lightspeedpr.com/
• Email: ethan@lightspeedpr.com
• PR Confidential: Unlocking the Secrets to Creating a Powerful Public Image book - https://www.amazon.com/PR-Confidential-Unlocking-Creating-Powerful-ebook/dp/B0CBCKYGMP

Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://marketingagencypowerhour.com/
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19ECltpQuJWu6rfXlx98wT
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/marketing-agency-power-hour/id1809205281
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/344bea8c-7897-4dfc-8cdc-f31a92514243
• iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-marketing-agency-power-hou-272863996/
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/marketing-agency-power-hour-6067409
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingAgencyPowerHour

Take your marketing agency to the next level with powerful insights on AI, automation, and how to scale your business efficiently. It’s time to streamline your operations, boost client results, and build a global team that runs like a well-oiled machine. And who better to guide you than serial entrepreneur, founder, and CEO of Robert Gerov Media, Robert Gerov.

You’ll learn how to leverage AI tools to automate onboarding, content creation, and project management while keeping the human touch that ensures top-notch quality. Gain confidence in building scalable systems through solid Standard Operating Procedures, and discover how to measure real success using metrics that matter, like revenue growth, lead quality, and client retention.

Takeaways:

• Learn how AI and automation can supercharge your agency’s efficiency and results.
• Discover the power of well-documented SOPs for scaling operations and maintaining quality.
• Master the art of parallel workflows to eliminate bottlenecks and speed up delivery.
• Measure success with metrics that truly matter; revenue, lead quality, and client retention.
• Build a diversified global team to enhance flexibility, resilience, and creativity.
• Prioritize employee happiness and flexibility for long-term engagement and performance.

Connect with Robert:

• Robert’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertgerov/
• Robert Gerov Media’s Company Website: https://robertgerov.com/

Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://marketingagencypowerhour.com/
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19ECltpQuJWu6rfXlx98wT
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/marketing-agency-power-hour/id1809205281
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/344bea8c-7897-4dfc-8cdc-f31a92514243
• iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-marketing-agency-power-hou-272863996/
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/marketing-agency-power-hour-6067409
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingAgencyPowerHour

Unlock the secrets to powerful business communication with presentation expert, Mike Teixeira, Founder and President of Deck Presentations. In this episode, Mike breaks down how clear, confident presentations can drive real results, whether you're pitching clients, leading a team meeting, or creating content for social media. From conquering public speaking nerves to designing visuals that actually support your message, Mike shares a proven framework to help you connect with any audience. Learn how to build communication skills across your team and turn every presentation into a strategic advantage.

Takeaways:

• Use video and storytelling to simplify complex ideas and boost your brand presence.
• Build public speaking confidence through practice, coaching, and safe environments.
• Apply the three-pillar method: plan with purpose, design with clarity, and rehearse to refine.
• Match your slide detail to the format; simple for live talks, detailed for handouts.
• Combine AI tools with human insight for efficient, emotionally resonant presentations.

Connect with Mike:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miketeixeira/
• Deck Presentations Website: https://presentationsbydeck.com/
• The No Fear Presenting Podcast: https://the-no-fear-presenting-podcast.simplecast.com/

Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://marketingagencypowerhour.com/
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19ECltpQuJWu6rfXlx98wT
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/marketing-agency-power-hour/id1809205281
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/344bea8c-7897-4dfc-8cdc-f31a92514243
• iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-marketing-agency-power-hou-272863996/
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/marketing-agency-power-hour-6067409
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingAgencyPowerHour

Transform the way you think about customer relationships with powerful insights on increasing lifetime value, leveraging Net Promoter Scores, and using AI to unlock what truly drives loyalty. In this episode, Jon Stamell, marketing strategist and founder of OOMIJI, breaks down how to turn customer feedback into an actionable strategy that scales.

You’ll learn how to pitch bigger clients, build a standout agency culture, and create long-term success by focusing on what matters most: real customer connection. Get inspired to lead smarter, work leaner, and bring fresh thinking to your CRM and growth strategy.

Takeaways:

• Use AI to analyze NPS feedback and uncover what your customers really care about.
• “Niche widening” helps agencies scale by pitching larger accounts with confidence.
• Great agency culture starts with mentoring, trust, and a flat team structure.
• Remote teams thrive with consistent, personal connection and leadership.
• Future-ready agencies prioritize critical thinking and smart use of AI tools.

Connect with Jon:

• Jon’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stamell/
• Oomiji’s Company Website: https://oomiji.ai/
• Jon’s Email to Connect: jon@oomiji.com

Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://marketingagencypowerhour.com/
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19ECltpQuJWu6rfXlx98wT
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/marketing-agency-power-hour/id1809205281
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/344bea8c-7897-4dfc-8cdc-f31a92514243
• iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-marketing-agency-power-hou-272863996/
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/marketing-agency-power-hour-6067409
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingAgencyPowerHour

Take your agency leadership to the next level with honest, actionable insight about authenticity, networking, and building a business that supports both growth and personal fulfillment. Get ready to hear from marketing agency founder Tara Johnson, CEO of AlchemyThree and Alchemy Wealth Marketing, as she shares her journey from artist to company leader.

You’ll learn how to network effectively (even as an introvert), build a referral engine through community and partnerships, and redefine success beyond just the numbers. This episode is packed with real talk about delegation, financial literacy, and how to create a thriving business and a life you love.

Takeaways:

• Show up with authenticity and build real relationships so that people connect with you, not just your pitch.
• Prepare for networking by researching attendees and focusing on quality over quantity.
• Join mastermind and accountability groups to gain support, mentorship, and real-world feedback.
• Delegate and empower your team so you can focus on vision, not just operations.
• Redefine success: growth is important, but so is freedom, flexibility, and creativity.

Connect with Tara:

• Tara’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alchemythreefounder/
• Alchemy Wealth Marketing’s Website: https://alchemywealthmarketing.com/
• Tara’s Email: tara@alchemythree.com
• Tara’ s Tiny Art Gallery: https://www.instagram.com/littlefreegallery_concord?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://marketingagencypowerhour.com/
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19ECltpQuJWu6rfXlx98wT
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/marketing-agency-power-hour/id1809205281
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/344bea8c-7897-4dfc-8cdc-f31a92514243
• iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-marketing-agency-power-hou-272863996/
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/marketing-agency-power-hour-6067409
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingAgencyPowerHour

Authenticity and strategic content can power agency growth and client trust. In this episode of the Marketing Agency Power Hour, host Cal Wilder sits down with Lauren Douglass, Founder of Reverve Agency and a seasoned marketing leader with over 18 years of experience across corporate and agency roles.

Lauren shares her journey from corporate life to founding her own agency, emphasizing how authenticity, strategic content repurposing, and thought leadership can elevate agency visibility and client trust. She discusses the importance of using platforms like LinkedIn to consistently engage audiences, aligning messaging with client values, and building a strong personal brand. Lauren also explores how AI is reshaping content creation, and the challenges she faced when launching and scaling Reverve Agency. Beyond business, Lauren reflects on creativity, perseverance, and her personal growth journey, including experiences like attending Burning Man.

Whether you’re building an agency from the ground up or refining your online presence, Lauren’s insights offer a roadmap to building connection, credibility, and long-term success.

Takeaways:

• Use LinkedIn and content repurposing to maintain consistent, multi-channel engagement
• Align marketing messages with your clients’ core values to build deeper trust
• Embrace AI as a supportive tool in content creation while maintaining authenticity
• Stay resilient and intentional when starting and scaling your agency

Connect with Lauren:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ladouglass/
• Reverve Agency: reverve.xyz
• Humans & Brands Podcast: https://brandinnovators.podbean.com/

Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://marketingagencypowerhour.com/
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19ECltpQuJWu6rfXlx98wT
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/marketing-agency-power-hour/id1809205281
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/344bea8c-7897-4dfc-8cdc-f31a92514243
• iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-marketing-agency-power-hou-272863996/
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/marketing-agency-power-hour-6067409
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingAgencyPowerHour

Revolutionizing financial systems is a game-changer for scaling agencies strategically and sustainably. In this episode, the host sits down with James Kwon, Founder, CEO & Lead Strategist at Figmints Digital Creative Marketing.

James shares how he built a multi seven-figure agency by rethinking financial management through a system he developed called “Slices,” inspired by the Profit First model. He explains how the Slices system not only transformed his agency’s profitability but also redefined its compensation structure, team incentives, and growth strategy. The conversation explores how James integrates the Slices methodology across business units, combines it with the EOS framework, and coaches other agency owners through cohort-based programs. James also opens up about his journey from the culinary world to digital marketing, the role of faith in his leadership style, and his passion for building purpose-driven businesses.

Whether you’re running a creative agency, looking to improve financial health, or seeking a deeper sense of mission in your work, James’s insights offer a powerful framework for sustainable and strategic growth.

Takeaways:

• Implement the Slices system to align finances, compensation, and performance
• Use the EOS model to create structure and drive operational efficiency
• Build pay-for-performance models that reward impact, not just effort
• Integrate faith, purpose, and passion into the core of your business strategy

Connect with James:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamkwon/
• Company Website: https://www.figmints.com/

Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://marketingagencypowerhour.com/
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19ECltpQuJWu6rfXlx98wT
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/marketing-agency-power-hour/id1809205281
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/344bea8c-7897-4dfc-8cdc-f31a92514243
• iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-marketing-agency-power-hou-272863996/
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/marketing-agency-power-hour-6067409
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingAgencyPowerHour

Consistency and strategic AI integration are essential for long-term success in B2B marketing. In this episode, the host sits down with Nick Stamoulis, B2B Fractional CMO of Brick Marketing, a B2B Digital Marketing Agency.

Nick shares how his 25 years of experience have shaped his persistent, process-driven approach to digital marketing. He explores a “Wear ’em down marketing” strategy, which focuses on consistently engaging target audiences across multiple channels including SEO, websites, trade shows, and AI-powered content strategies. The conversation dives into customizing marketing strategies for mid-market and enterprise clients, aligning KPIs with business goals, and integrating emerging technologies such as generative engine optimization. Nick also highlights the importance of conducting thorough audits, maintaining clear processes, and sustaining long-term client relationships. He shares how Brick Marketing is preparing for future growth by thoughtfully adopting AI and evolving its service offerings.

Whether you’re leading a B2B marketing team, scaling an agency, or integrating AI into your workflows, Nick’s insights deliver practical guidance and a clear roadmap for sustainable success.

Takeaways:

• Embrace consistency to build lasting engagement across channels
• Tailor KPIs and strategies to align with each client’s unique goals
• Integrate AI and generative engine optimization to stay ahead of marketing trends
• Prioritize audits and process-driven execution for sustained client success

Connect with Nick:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickstamoulis/
• Brick Marketing: brickmarketing.com/

Ways to Tune In:

• Transistor: https://marketingagencypowerhour.com/
• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/19ECltpQuJWu6rfXlx98wT
• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/marketing-agency-power-hour/id1809205281
• Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/344bea8c-7897-4dfc-8cdc-f31a92514243
• iHeart Radio: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/269-marketing-agency-power-hou-272863996/
• Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/marketing-agency-power-hour-6067409
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingAgencyPowerHour