For the first episode of YES BRAND Season 7, Hersh sits down with Lindsay Tjepkema - a 3x founder and visionary B2B marketing leader with 20+ years of experience. She founded venture-backed SaaS startup, Casted, the first podcast and video marketing platform for B2B brands. As CEO, she led the company it to rapid growth with clients like IBM, HubSpot, and Salesforce. Now, as the founder of Human Brands Win, she helps founders build authentic, breakthrough brands. A sought-after speaker at SXSW, INBOUND, B2BMX, and more, Lindsay’s insights have been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, NPR, and TechCrunch. She is a Forbes Business Council member, co-leader of the Women of Pavilion Community, and a passionate advocate for founders defining success on their own terms. Lindsay lives near Boston with her husband and three sons.

Linda Rawson is a technology entrepreneur, author, inventor, and C-level executive. As President of DynaGrace Enterprises, a Women-Owned Small Business in rural Morgan, Utah, she has secured millions of dollars in federal government contracts, conducting cutting-edge Technology R&D for prestigious clients like the Air Force and Naval Research Laboratories. Her journey began as a software engineer in the 1980s, a time when women in technology were a rarity in Utah. Overcoming challenges and exceeding expectations, Linda's background seamlessly blends technical expertise with sharp business acumen. Beyond her corporate success, Linda is passionate about empowering women entrepreneurs. As the founder of GovConBiz, a company that helps businesses with Federal Government Contracting, and an author, she shares her insights and experience to help others navigate the path to success. She believes in the power of work-life balance. She enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, pursuing amateur photography, and embracing the outdoors through activities like golf, hiking, scuba diving, and winter activities. She brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the conversation about public speaking, sales, and the entrepreneurial journey. Want to learn the secrets to government contracting? Be sure and listen to Linda Rawson as she shares her experience, strategy and tidbits about government contracting. https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/govconbiz-with-linda-rawson/id1525772424 Follow Linda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindarawson/

Steve Biegel has an encyclopedic knowledge of what has and hasn’t worked in advertising over the past several decades... running deeper still is his understanding of purpose and the role it plays in the brand-consumer relationships of today.   An award-winning ad veteran, Steve got his start as a copywriter with experience at agencies like Ammirati & Puris, Ogilvy, Havas, and others. He served as Partner/Executive Producer at WildChild Content in NY, where he oversaw branded content campaigns and produced social impact films such as THE WALK.    Going back to his writing roots, Steve - who has also been an adjunct professor at Queen’s College - is currently working with a publisher, writing a book on conscious-driven marketing, and how to craft brands that people don’t just buy, but love, believe in, and advocate for.  Steve’s take blends psychology, behavioral economics, cultural insights, and hard-as-a-diamond data with real-world case studies, offering a practical roadmap to build brands that matter in a skeptical, value-driven world. In a real throwback to the history of human connection, he discusses tribe-building and the clubs consumers wish to join, along with adapting technologically in our times. “think, say, and do what is needed to become the version of themselves they aspire to become.” Connect with Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-biegel-1b03503/

With over 14 years of experience, he've seen ups and downs. Built his first venture from scratch to $10 million ARR, but also faced failures, like in ed-tech. Learning from mistakes, he explored the world of crypto, even wrote a book about it. In 2021, he founded AcknoLedger to explore web3.0's potential, raising $2.5 million. Then, in 2022, got hooked on socialfying and launched "Voice of Crypto," and moved to London giving everyone a say in the crypto world. It's growing fast, with 1 million users. It's not just another news outlet; they are a community-driven platform with over 1 million active users. Their goal is to demystify crypto and make it accessible to everyone, using simple language that anyone can understand. Alongside Voice of Crypto, he launched "Vitamin i," a marketplace for web3.0 influencers. Vitamin i connects brands with influencers who are shaping the future of the internet. It's more than just a marketplace; it's a platform for collaboration and innovation in the ever-evolving landscape of web3.0. https://www.linkedin.com/in/abhisheksinghrajpurohit/

Arias WebsterBerry is a highly successful entrepreneur, digital marketing strategist, and business coach, best known for founding WebsterBerry Marketing, Ignite Funnels, and Launch Ignition Ai. With over a decade of experience in digital marketing, he has generated over $112 million in revenue for his clients by helping them grow their online presence and scale their businesses using automation and cutting-edge marketing strategies. Arias is also the author of Content Cannon, a guide that empowers entrepreneurs to create impactful content strategies that resonate with their audiences and drive business growth. His mission is to help 1,000 entrepreneurs achieve $100,000+ and 100 entrepreneurs generate $1 million by 2026.

Daniel is an executive with a proven track record of driving transformational leadership and strategic growth across Fortune 100 to SMB's within Energy, Manufacturing, CPG, Technology, and Professional Services. Increased market share by 31% and revenue by 107% by developing and executing comprehensive global market development strategies.Achieved 27% improvement in new business revenue and 60% operational efficiency through data-driven Power BI insights.Spearheaded enterprise-wide transformations resulting in 50% improvement in customer KPIs and 92% reduction in compliance penalties.

Mark Rampolla is a visionary entrepreneur and the founder of ZICO Coconut Water, a brand that helped create the now $8 billion global coconut water category. After growing ZICO into one of the fastest-growing beverages worldwide, Mark sold the company to Coca Cola in 2013. He then transitioned into investing, co-founding PowerPlant Partners, where he played a key role in the plant-based food movement, including the success of Beyond Meat. In 2020, Mark made a bold move by repurchasing ZICO from Coca Cola with a group of investors, including Jesse Itzler and tennis star Naomi Osaka. Now, through GroundForce Capital, Mark manages $500 million in assets, focusing on health, wellness, and sustainability investments. His journey reflects a deep commitment to innovation and positive change in the consumer goods industry.

CEO (YU2SHINE) & Unconquerable mE Program Director With over 30 years of business and leadership experience, Marla Ballard is dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve their highest potential.Her journey encompasses significant achievements, including being a top producer and trainer for an international wellness company, serving on multiple non-profit boards of directors, and founding successful companies and business networking organizations. As CEO of YU2SHINE, along with the YU2SHINE Founder, Victoria Rader, Marla leads a global mission of quantum personal development. She exemplifies living a God-guided life filled with love, compassion, freedom, and unity. Under her leadership, YU2SHINE aims to help each person shine their unique light and live authentically. Certifications and Expertise Marla holds several prestigious certifications: ⇢ Professional Enlightenment Coach ®⇢ Free mE® EFT Practitioner & Instructor⇢ThetaHealing® Certificate of Science⇢YU2SHINE Quantum Light Touch Practitioner⇢ Bachelor of Science in Animal Science⇢ Speaker, Trainer, International Best-Selling Author

Peter Murphy Lewis is the innovative founder of StrategicPete.com and a distinguished fractional Chief Marketing Officer. Specializing in translating complex marketing data into clear, actionable strategies, Peter is pivotal in driving revenue and growth across diverse sectors, including software, travel, media, and more uniquely, zoos and banks. His ability to find commonalities in seemingly disparate industries sets him apart in the field of strategic marketing. Beyond his consulting prowess, Peter is also the host of two television shows and the producer and narrator of a compelling documentary, blending his expertise with a natural talent for storytelling. Living with his family in a literal zoo in Wichita, Kansas (YES!), Peter's life is as colorful and dynamic as his professional endeavors. Known for his skill in assembling and leading high-performance teams, Peter is the trusted advisor for CEOs seeking to demystify their marketing efforts and accelerate business growth. https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermurphylewis/ https://strategicpete.com/

UK-based Toni McLelland serves clients globally, as an RSA Fellow, Critical Friend, Business Mentor, and founder of The Compassionate Organisation Framework and Leadership Model.  Known as "The Queen of Compassion" and "The Compassionate Businesswoman," she comes with a sprinkling of #TonisFairyDust and has been described as fairy dust personified. Toni is an inspirational, people-leader and one that passionately navigates C Suite and board members through individual and business challenge, crisis and change management for futureproofing and sustainability in business. She is a business specialist for third sector, social and public causes and has led organisations in this space for over 30 years. A veteran in DEIB which underpins all her work she also has her own ‘BLEND’ leadership change model and is keen to assist leaders with business acumen to futureproof business whilst leading the People and Sustainability agendas.

Meet Amy Zander, The Mobstress of Marketing, and Founder of Zeedia Media, which helps clients increase SEO and online content through social media marketing, blogging, content management, training, podcast launches, and website and logo design. In her own words, "Your brand should be VERY powerful yet very SIMPLE. One single emotional connection done right. That is what Brand Archetypes is about. What is your Brand Archetype?"

Accountant turned Voice Over Actor! It's never too late to follow your passion. Renée shares her story of transitioning from corporate, to entrepreneurship and finally stepping into her true passion, the creative space. Having voiced for Crisco, Greenpeace and others, she shares the highs and lows of making a transition at middle age. It's about being true to yourself and what you really love.

Jake Setterlun, a 28-year-old entrepreneur from Milwaukee, WI, began his business journey at the age of 19 while navigating college and searching for his life's direction. Along the way, he has experienced both remarkable successes and significant setbacks, including failed ventures, scaling to million-dollar months, losing it all, and rebuilding from scratch. These experiences have given Jake a unique and diverse perspective on business and starting from the ground up. His businesses have been featured in Inc., Yahoo Finance, and Influencive and were recognized with the prestigious 2024 Inc. 5000 award for being the fastest-growing marketing company. Website: https://jakesetterlun.com/

Patrick Boylan is a skilled multi-instrumentalist and co-founder of MuseFlow, a groundbreaking music EdTech platform often referred to as "The Duolingo of Music Education." Frustrated by the limitations of traditional music education, Patrick began exploring self-directed practice, which reignited his passion for music and led him to focus on sight reading as an engaging learning tool. MuseFlow teaches bite-sized skills through sight reading, allowing students to master new concepts efficiently and enjoyably by focusing on reading and playing music at first sight. Patrick loves shared his insights on learning and EdTech, inspiring parents, teachers, and self-learners to help students and themselves achieve flow state through MuseFlow’s unique approach. http://museflow.ai Coupon Code for 50% Off:  YES50

Robert first got started in crypto in 2013. His mission is to equalize the playing field to bring new financial opportunities to everyone worldwide. Having dealt with problems of blockchain incompatibilities and observing struggles of web3 mass adoption, he sought to build a protocol to bring everything together: any token to any token, on any network.

Holly Porter stands as a beacon of resilience, a 15-time best-selling author, seasoned philanthropist, and a true survivor. Her incredible journey includes a 70-day battle with COVID-19, from which she emerged with unwavering determination. Passionate about wellness, she leads a non-profit dedicated to aiding the long COVID community.  Holly's infectious joy embodies hope, her wisdom uplifting others, proving that healing is possible after the toughest of battles, inspiring countless lives along the way. Holly’s newly founded Retreat RnR just launch a SaaS Platform early 2024. This is a game changer for any Retreat Leader! Connect with Holly Website: HollyPorterInternational.com Email: holly@hollyporter.com Website: AdventureBucketWish.org

Through the Creativity Found podcast, online directory and membership, Claire Waite Brown inspires and encourages adults to get creative, and connects people that want to take up a creative activity with artists and crafters who can show them how.

As a mentor and coach to entrepreneurs, serial-entrepreneur Jeremy B. Shapiro helps founders find Entrepreneurial Freedom as a true business owner – an important distinction that many entrepreneurs can easily miss when working “in” their business instead of “on” their business. For over two decades, through structured masterminding, one-on-one coaching, and consulting work, Jeremy has been helping entrepreneurs discover the core strengths in themselves and their business and attain the freedom they deserve. Connect with Jeremy What is Entrepreneurial Freedom and Freedom Interview Stories: https://bayareamastermind.com/freedom/ Effective Mastermind Hot Seats: https://bayareamastermind.com/hot-seats/ Defined: What is a Mastermind: https://bayareamastermind.com/about/what-is-a-mastermind/ The Power of the Master Mind: https://bayareamastermind.com/power-master-mind-napoleon-hills-think-grow-rich/  The Three Kinds of Mastermind Groups: https://bayareamastermind.com/mastermind-group-near-me/  Your Freedom Number: Escaping the Rat Race https://bayareamastermind.com/freedom-number/   https://instagram.com/bayareamastermindhttps://linkedin.com/in/jeremyshapiro/https://linkedin.com/company/bay-area-mastermind/https://facebook.com/BayAreaMastermind

"Jon Bassford really piqued my curiosity about operations," Hersh admits when commenting on this episode. And that makes sense, because Jon is an ops professional and entrepreneur driven by his Curiosity! It is his super power and it has driven his personal and professional advancement. After law school, Jon put this inquisitiveness to work launching, managing, and improving operations for venture backed startups to global nonprofits with impact! Today, Jon is known for his curiosity-driven leadership, helping organizations and individuals innovate, change, and grow through by adopting Curiosity as their superpower.

Hersh sits down with Kimberly Wifeling, who has been described as a “force of nature” - an apt description, Hersh points out. She is determined to use that force to make a significant positive impact on our world. Kimberly Wiefling helps people achieve what seems impossible, but is "merely difficult." She’s the author of the globally popular book Scrappy Project Management - The 12 Predictable & Avoidable Pitfalls Every Project Faces; the founder of Wiefling Consulting, and cofounder of Silicon Valley Alliances. Her latest book, “Turning Ideas Into Impact”, is an anthology with 15 other Silicon Valley consultants. A physicist by education, she worked at HP for 10 years in 7 different engineering and project management roles, including leading an R&D team launching a new mass spectrometer, then 3 years in Silicon Valley startups leading product development teams in hardware, software, and complex systems involving both. She’s worked with 50+ globalizing Japanese companies, and with people from over 50 different countries, helping organizations solve global problems profitably. Kimberly lives and works in Silicon Valley, and has helped to start, run and grow many small businesses, including several that are still alive and profitable, and one of which grew to millions in revenue with only seed funding from her and the other founders.  Kimberly’s superpower is turning managers into leaders and groups into true teams who can achieve “impossible” together.