Many brands do them, most brands miss the mark – testimonials. They are too often bland, generic, and do little to add value. In fact, many do brand damage. In under 17 minutes, Corey Kay and Mickey Maher draw on 30 years in media and their work with Thinking Cap Solutions to show where brands go wrong, how to get it right, and the lessons they have learned creating testimonials for leading businesses from Real Estate, Radio, Sports Clubs and more. You’ll hear why written reviews and five sta...
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Many brands do them, most brands miss the mark – testimonials. They are too often bland, generic, and do little to add value. In fact, many do brand damage. In under 17 minutes, Corey Kay and Mickey Maher draw on 30 years in media and their work with Thinking Cap Solutions to show where brands go wrong, how to get it right, and the lessons they have learned creating testimonials for leading businesses from Real Estate, Radio, Sports Clubs and more. You’ll hear why written reviews and five sta...
Many brands do them, most brands miss the mark – testimonials. They are too often bland, generic, and do little to add value. In fact, many do brand damage. In under 17 minutes, Corey Kay and Mickey Maher draw on 30 years in media and their work with Thinking Cap Solutions to show where brands go wrong, how to get it right, and the lessons they have learned creating testimonials for leading businesses from Real Estate, Radio, Sports Clubs and more. You’ll hear why written reviews and five sta...
Are you frustrated by slow social media growth, even though your business is thriving? In this episode of the Thinking Cap Solutions podcast, we dive into the dangerous game of focusing on vanity metrics like follower counts and likes. Hosts Corey Kay and Mickey Maher challenge the common misconception that bigger numbers equal bigger success, sharing a personal story about a business owner who was discouraged by his social media stats despite his revenue soaring. Learn why a small, engaged c...
In episode 25, we explore why the best real estate agents aren’t just great negotiators, they’re great content creators. Drawing from over 30 years in media, we break down the real opportunity in real estate: building trust, standing out, and creating real connections before the listing appointment. Because if your only content is “just sold” and “just listed”… you’re playing the same game as everyone else. We discuss: Why real estate brands of the future will look more like mini media compan...
Is podcasting really killing radio? In this episode of the Thinking Cap Solutions Podcast, we get into the podcast vs radio debate and break it down. We chat: The two different business models with differing audience needs & habitsWhy attempting the radio model on podcasts (or vice versa) just won't workWhat each medium can learn from the otherAussie audience numbers in 2025 (They might surprise you)What content creators need to understand about both without fearing eitherIt ...
When two of the world’s most powerful men (Trump & Musk) carry on like schoolkids online, it’s more than just headlines — it’s a masterclass in poor emotional intelligence. This episode’s not political. It’s personal and professional. We’re unpacking what real emotional intelligence looks like (and doesn’t), why it matters more than ever, and how to build it in leadership and life. Mickey Maher and Corey Kay bring relatable examples, real talk, and a breakdown of the five key traits — fro...
Not every creative clash is about the idea itself. More often, it’s about how the people behind the idea work together. In this episode, we unpack the three personality types you're most likely to encounter when shaping creative work as part of a team. Whether you're managing, coaching, producing, selling, or delivering content, knowing how to read the room and guide different personalities can be the difference between missed potential and standout results. Through something we've seen first...
In episode 21 of the Thinking Cap Solutions Podcast, Corey Kay and Mickey Maher dive into how brands of all sizes can seize the day to drive deeper audience connection. From local moments to national headlines, this episode explores how timely, well-aligned content creates cut-through in an always-on world. You'll learn: Why seizing the day is more than a social post — it’s a mindset shiftHow to build a content strategy that allows you to be reactive and relevantWhat brands like cafes, real e...
⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains conversations about mental health, suicide, and personal loss. Please listen with care. This isn’t our usual episode. There’s no structure. No polish. Just two blokes sitting down to talk about something we couldn’t ignore. The recent deaths of Adam and Troy Selwood shook us. Not just because of who they were, but because of what their story says about the silent battles so many men are fighting — even those who seem to have it all. We hit record, not...
In this episode, Corey Kay and Mickey Maher delve into the critical importance of identifying your Point of Difference (POD) in today's saturated markets. Drawing from their extensive experience in media and branding, they discuss how a well-defined POD can set your brand apart, foster genuine connections, and drive success. Through real-world examples—from Bunnings' community-centric approach to Koala's eco-friendly innovations—they illustrate the power of standing out. Whether you're a real...
In this episode of the Thinking Cap Solutions Podcast, we dive into the dynamics of managing two very different personality types: the analytical and the creative. Drawing from decades of leadership experience, Corey Kay and Mickey Maher share their insights on coaching, working with, and balancing these two styles in any team or industry. If you're working with creatives who thrive on spontaneity and analyticals who need structure and planning, this episode is for you. We explore the challen...
In this episode of the Thinking Cap Solutions Podcast, we dive into the growing debate between audio and video in podcasting. While video consumption continues to surge, we discuss why audio-first content is still king. Adding a visual element to your podcast can enhance engagement without the need for full-length video episodes so we also explore alternatives such as bite-sized video clips, behind-the-scenes content, and teaser videos, allowing you to evolve with the growing tren...
Change isn’t just inevitable, it’s constant. And for leaders, how you respond to it matters. In this episode of the Thinking Cap Solutions Podcast, Mickey Maher and Corey Kay unpack what effective change management really looks like. Drawing from their experience leading large scale transformation in the media industry, they explore the four essential pillars to navigating change with clarity and confidence. You’ll hear insights on: Creating alignment through strong communication and le...
Can you really be friends with your boss outside of work without it messing up your career? In this episode, we unpack the good, the bad, and the messy reality of boss-employee friendships beyond the office. From trust, transparency, and team culture to the risks of favoritism, blurred boundaries, and tough conversations, we share our experience and expertise including strategies to make it work. 🔹 When friendships at work fuel success vs. when they create complications 🔹 How leaders c...
In the wake of Cyclone Alfred, local businesses in SEQ and Northern NSW have a unique opportunity, not just to reopen, but to reconnect with their communities in meaningful ways. In this episode, we explore how brands can step up, show genuine heart, and build long-term trust. From free coffees and phone charging stations to partnering with local vendors and offering a helping hand, the businesses that show up now will be the ones customers stay loyal to in the future. This episode covers: - ...
Taylor Swift isn’t just a global superstar—she’s elite at audience engagement. Whether you love her music or not, there’s no denying that her connection with fans is next level. But what if you could apply the same strategies to your brand? And in true Swiftie fashion, this just happens to be Episode 13—her lucky number. Coincidence? Maybe. But given how intentional she is with every move she makes, we’ll take it as a sign this episode is a must-listen. In Episode 13 of the Thinking Cap Solut...
"An email. A meeting. The words, 'You can bring a support person.' Before anything is said, you already know—your job is gone." Last week, many talented people in media found themselves out of work. Redundancies don’t just affect those being let go—they impact the colleagues left behind, the teams scrambling to adjust, and the leaders forced to deliver the news. In this episode of the Thinking Cap Solutions Podcast, we break down what happens next: ✔ For those made redundant – Processing the ...
Bad leadership exists in every industry—but does that mean you’re stuck? In this episode, we explore how to not just survive, but thrive under weak, ineffective, or even toxic leadership. We break down common poor leadership traits, from lack of communication to favoritism, and share practical strategies to stay professional, grow your career, and even step up as a leader—without the title. Plus, we reveal when it’s time to exit stage left. 🚀 Whether you’re struggling with a disengaged boss o...
In episode 10 of the Thinking Cap Solutions Podcast, Mickey and Corey dive into the controversial topic of toxic high performers—those who excel in results but damage team culture. Inspired by a viral LinkedIn article from Chad Gono, we explore: ✅ What defines toxic behavior in the workplace? ✅ The challenge leaders face in managing high performers who exhibit negative traits. ✅ Real-life leadership experiences handling difficult team dynamics. ✅ Why some organizations tolerate toxic talent a...
Welcome to our first Thinking Cap Solutions podcast of 2025! We’re talking the trends and strategies that will shape the future of content, podcasting, and audience engagement. In this episode, we reveal our Top 5 Sure Things for 2025: 1️⃣ The unstoppable growth of podcasting & what it means for creators & brands. 2️⃣ Why visual content—video episodes & shareable clips—is essential for success. 3️⃣ How to embrace AI as a creative and practical ally in your strategy. 4️⃣ The import...
With a combined 30+ years media experience working with talent across the country, Mickey Maher and Corey Kay from ThinkingCap Solutions share their process for uncovering, developing and evolving personal brands. Discover how your personal brand is the foundation of a content strategy that not only sets you apart but deeply connects with audiences. Mickey and Corey break down their proven process for helping individuals and businesses craft authentic, impactful personal brands that re...
Many brands do them, most brands miss the mark – testimonials. They are too often bland, generic, and do little to add value. In fact, many do brand damage. In under 17 minutes, Corey Kay and Mickey Maher draw on 30 years in media and their work with Thinking Cap Solutions to show where brands go wrong, how to get it right, and the lessons they have learned creating testimonials for leading businesses from Real Estate, Radio, Sports Clubs and more. You’ll hear why written reviews and five sta...
