The Curious Creative

Sean Stipp: Visual Evidence and the Future of Trust in Journalism

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 23:00:27 +0000

In this episode, Mike Kepka sits down with Sean Stipp, 3× Mid-Atlantic Emmy Award-winning visual journalist and Director of Visuals at TribLive, to explore the critical role of professional storytelling in an age of misinformation. From managing a newsroom that generates 50 million monthly clicks to navigating the ethics of AI, Sean shares why authentic, vetted "visual evidence" is the ultimate currency for building community trust. They discuss the delicate balance of leveraging high-traffic sports coverage to fund deep-dive investigative projects, the evolving technology behind modern photojournalism, and why "bad audio" is the one thing no audience will tolerate. Whether it's flying drones over 28-car pileups or documenting the release of Pittsburgh natives from foreign prisons, Sean dives into why real journalists remain essential to the democratic process.

🔗 Connect with Mike:

🌎 kepkahouse.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/mike-kepka-91721751

📸 instagram.com/kepka

🔗 Connect with Sean Stipp:

🌎 triblive.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/sean-stipp

📸 https://www.instagram.com/triblive/

💬 In an era of AI-generated content, how do you verify the images you see online? Drop a comment below!

📢 Don't forget to LIKE & FOLLOW to stay updated on future episodes of The Curious Creative!

#VisualJournalism #Storytelling #Photojournalism #TribLive #MikeKepka #KepkaHouse #TheCuriousCreative

Seth Graye: Cracking the Code on Video Data and ROI

Tue, 06 Jan 2026 23:00:32 +0000

In this episode, Mike Kepka sits down with Seth Graye —VP of Business, Operation, and Technology at Mainstream Video Productions— to dive into the "nuts and bolts" of how data transforms video from a creative gamble into a measurable success. Seth shares how he moved from the world of high-stakes cemetery sales to mastering the metrics behind video funnels, proving that while creative can be nebulous, numbers never lie. They break down the mechanics of a real-world LinkedIn campaign, discussing how to funnel an audience of millions down to high-intent leads and why changing just one variable at a time is the secret to successful iteration.

You'll learn why the first seven seconds of your video are the ultimate battleground against the "scroll" and how "self-qualifying leads" can magically move through your funnel without you lifting a finger. Seth also explains why your video strategy matters more than your camera gear and how Mainstream achieved a 500% increase in their quarterly conversion rate average through disciplined data tracking.

🔗 Connect with Mike:

🌎 kepkahouse.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/mike-kepka-91721751

📸 instagram.com/kepka

🔗 Connect with Seth Graye:

🌎 https://www.mainstreamvideoproduction.com/

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-graye-550365198/

💬 In the absence of data, whose opinion wins in your office? Drop a comment below!

📢 Don't forget to LIKE & FOLLOW to stay updated on future episodes of The Curious Creative!

#VideoData #ROIVideo #MarketingAnalytics #VideoFunnel #ACDCStrategy #DigitalMarketing #TheCuriousCreative #Mike Kepka #Kepka House

Beth Klepper: How to Stop Being a "Frivolous Marketing Tool"

Tue, 16 Dec 2025 23:00:21 +0000

In this episode, Mike Kepka sits down with Beth Klepper—founder of Mainstream Video Productions, based in Littleton, Colorado—to discuss how she transformed her business from straightforward production to a results-oriented approach to video content. Beth shares her journey of overcoming the "frivolous marketing tool" perception of video , emphasizing that one video cannot possibly do all things: awareness, consideration, and decision. They dive into why the ACDC (Awareness, Consideration, Decision) strategy is the key to proving ROI for clients. Beth details how running her own ACDC campaign revealed the critical importance of the hook in awareness content , and how the data informed her to pivot quickly and iterate. They also discuss the crucial difference between a 45-second "nice-to-have" video and the necessary runtime for a decision-stage VSL (Video Sales Letter) for clients ready to buy. Ultimately, the goal is to stop being a video vendor and become a tenacious, strategic partner, letting the data do the talking.

🎧 P.S. Stay tuned for the next episode with Seth Gray, who works with Beth on the data side of these campaigns!

🔗 Connect with Mike:

🌎 kepkahouse.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/mike-kepka-91721751

📸 instagram.com/kepka

🔗 Connect with Beth Klepper:

🌎 https://www.mainstreamvideoproduction.com/

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethkleppermainstreamvideo

📸 https://www.instagram.com/klepperbeth

💬 What's the biggest misconception you hear about video length? Drop a comment below!

📢 Don't forget to LIKE & FOLLOW to stay updated on future episodes of The Curious Creative!

#VideoStrategy #ROI #ACDCStrategy #ContentMarketing #StrategicPartner #Filmmaking #TheCuriousCreative

Nick Szpara: How to Pivot from "Gun for Hire" to Strategic Video Partner

Tue, 18 Nov 2025 23:00:29 +0000

In this episode, Mike Kepka sits down with Nick Szpara—National Sports Emmy winner and owner of Freedom Digital Media—to discuss the pivotal shift from traditional video production to results-based video strategy. Nick shares his journey of moving beyond one-off projects and "sending videos into the ether" to leveraging data and advanced tracking to quantify return on investment (ROI) for clients. They roleplay a pitch for a union recruiting video, breaking down how a single three-day shoot can be turned into a full-scale, multi-stage campaign (Awareness, Consideration, Decision) that dramatically increases conversions for apprenticeship programs and other corporate needs.

🔗 Connect with Mike:

🌎 kepkahouse.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/mike-kepka-91721751

📸 instagram.com/kepka

🔗 Connect with Nick Szpara:

🌎 https://www.freedomdigital.net/

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickszpara/

✉️ nick@freedomdigital.net

💬 What's your biggest challenge in justifying your video projects to the C-Suite? Drop a comment below!

📢 Don't forget to LIKE & FOLLOW to stay updated on future episodes of The Curious Creative!

#VideoStrategy #StrategicPartner #ROI #ContentCampaign #ProductionCompany

Matt Fuller: How the ACDC Funnel Delivers Guaranteed ROI (Not Just Pretty Pictures)

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 22:00:27 +0000

In this episode, Mike Kepka sits down with Matt Fuller—filmmaker, founder of The Inside Picture Company, and Hollywood veteran—to unpack how the ACDC (Awareness, Consideration, Decision Content) video funnel is moving video production from an expense to an investment. Matt, who transitioned from big-budget films to serving homebuilding and healthcare verticals , shares how his focus shifted from making "beautiful creative" to creating results-based video strategy. They break down the three stages of the funnel, how to use projections and data to justify your value, and how Matt's agency now offers clients guaranteed results (like 15 new appointments in 90 days).

🔗 Connect with Mike:

🌎 kepkahouse.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/mike-kepka-91721751

📸 instagram.com/kepka

🔗 Connect with Matt Fuller:

🌎 http://insightpictureco.com

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefullerman/

✉️ matt@insightpictureco.com

💬 What's your biggest challenge in proving the ROI of your video content? Drop a comment below!

📢 Don't forget to LIKE & FOLLOW to stay updated on future episodes of The Curious Creative!

#VideoMarketing #ContentFunnel #ROIVideoStrategy

Derrick Lorah: Beyond the Lens – The Agency Mindset in Video Production

Tue, 29 Jul 2025 22:00:15 +0000

In this episode, Mike Kepka sits down with Derrick Lorah —Flagship Visuals, Partner / Head of Client Experience & Director in Virginia Beach, Virginia— to unpack what it means for a production company to "think like an agency." With over 15 years of experience, Derrick shares how he and his team evolved from traditional video production to becoming strategic partners, focusing on client pain points and desired outcomes, not just deliverables. Discover how their approach, which includes understanding the nuances of various industries from tactical to lifestyle brands and working with clients like Real Truck and Operation Smile, helps them build lasting relationships and achieve measurable results. Derrick emphasizes that in today's landscape, "good work is par for the course," and the real win lies in solving the client's problems and reducing their friction.

🔗 Connect with Mike:

🌎 kepkahouse.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/mike-kepka-91721751

📸 instagram.com/kepka

🔗 Connect with Derrick Lorah:

🌎 https://flagshipvisuals.com/

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrick-lorah-17475162/

📸 https://www.instagram.com/derricklorah/

💬 How do you go beyond just "delivering a video" for your clients? Drop a comment below!

📢 Don't forget to LIKE & FOLLOW to stay updated on future episodes of The Curious Creative!

#VideoProduction #AgencyThinking #ContentStrategy #ROI #ClientPartnerships

Bob Kelly Returns: New Wins & The Power of Perseverance in Video ROI

Tue, 08 Jul 2025 22:00:21 +0000

In this follow-up episode, Mike Kepka catches up with past guest Bob Kelly of KPG Creative to get an update on his latest results-driven video strategies and ROI models. Bob shares exciting new projects, including a lead that took nearly a year to convert. Discover how perseverance pays off in securing high-value clients and expanding video campaign scopes. They also discuss optimizing LinkedIn landing pages for decision-stage content and targeting niche audiences with precision.

Watch the previous Bob's episode:

From Hollywood to Corporate: Bob Kelly on Results-Driven Video Strategy

https://youtu.be/V8OG-qTzQS0

🔗 Connect with Mike:

🌎 kepkahouse.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/mike-kepka-91721751

📸 instagram.com/kepka

🔗 Connect with Bob Kelly:

🌎 https://staging.kpgcreative.com/

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobkellykpgcreative/

✉️ bob@kpg-creative.com

💬 What's your longest lead-to-conversion story in video marketing? Drop a comment below!

📢 Don't forget to LIKE & FOLLOW to stay updated on future episodes of The Curious Creative!

#VideoMarketing #ROIDrivenVideo #ContentStrategy #Perseverance

Paul Jew: Proving ROI – The ACDC System for Video Marketing Success

Tue, 17 Jun 2025 22:00:24 +0000

In this episode, Mike Kepka sits down with Paul Jew —the driving force behind Moji Cinema in Albuquerque, New Mexico— to unpack a textbook example of results-driven video strategy. Paul, who transitioned from still photography to video, shares how his agency uses the ACDC system (Awareness, Consideration, Decision) to deliver dramatic ROI for clients. Paul Jew shares a case study where his video strategy made 2 million dollars in annual revenue for a new school, proving that when the right strategy is in place, the sky is the limit. Discover how they track engagement, convert viewers into customers, and achieve a "magical" 40x return on video investment.

🔗 Connect with Mike:

🌎 kepkahouse.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/mike-kepka-91721751

📸 instagram.com/kepka

🔗 Connect with Paul Jew:

🌎 http://mojicinema.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/paul-jew-bba2346

✉️ paul@mojistudios.com

💬 What’s your biggest challenge in proving video marketing ROI? Drop a comment below!

📢 Don't forget to LIKE & FOLLOW to stay updated on future episodes of The Curious Creative!

#VideoMarketing #ContentStrategy #ROIDrivenVideo

Vinny Mwano: The 8-Second Video Formula for Captivating Your Audience

Tue, 20 May 2025 22:00:23 +0000

Welcome to a new half-hour chit-chat about what we love: Video strategies that promise real results for our clients! In this episode, we sat down with Vinny Mwano —digital strategy consultant and creator of the 8-second video formula — to discuss how to capture attention and drive action in today's fast-paced digital world.

This was a very insightful conversation. Vinny shares his views and ideas on crafting compelling short-form video content, the importance of understanding your audience, and how to create a communications journey that converts. And he dives into real-world examples and actionable strategies for brands looking to enhance engagement and achieve real results.

🔗 Connect with Mike:

🌎 kepkahouse.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/mike-kepka-91721751

📸 instagram.com/kepka

🔗 Connect with Vinny Mwano:

🌎 vinnymwano.com

💼 www.linkedin.com/in/vinnymwano

✉️ vinny@vinnymwano.com

💬 What's your biggest challenge in creating engaging video content? Drop a comment below!

📢 Don't forget to LIKE & FOLLOW to stay updated on future episodes of The Curious Creative!

TJ Packer: Beyond Metrics – The Soul of Results-Driven Filmmaking

Tue, 03 Jun 2025 22:00:26 +0000

In this episode, Mike Kepka sits down with TJ Packer —Founder and Creative Director at Crew Pictures — to unpack the true meaning of "results-driven, high-end film and video" for brands. TJ shares his unique perspective on balancing tangible ROI (like sales and leads) with the often-overlooked intangible results, such as client satisfaction and brand pride. They dive into how understanding your "why" drives powerful video strategy and why authentic storytelling still reigns supreme in capturing audience attention and building lasting connections.

🔗 Connect with Mike:

🌎 kepkahouse.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/mike-kepka-91721751

📸 instagram.com/kepka

🔗 Connect with TJ Packer:

🌎 http://crewpictures.com

💼 https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjpacker/

📸 instagram.com/tjpacker/

💬 What results matter most to your brand's video content? Drop a comment below!

📢 Don't forget to LIKE & FOLLOW to stay updated on future episodes of The Curious Creative!

#VideoMarketing #ContentStrategy #BrandStorytelling

Andrew Swanson: The ROI‑Driven Video Playbook Every Marketer Needs in 2025

Tue, 22 Apr 2025 14:13:59 +0000

In this episode, Mike Kepka sits down with Andrew Swanson —founder of Forerunner, a boutique video agency based near Nashville— to unpack how purpose-driven video strategy is redefining what it means to get results. From building video funnels that track conversions to proving ROI for nonprofits and beyond, Andrew shares how his creative-meets-analytical mindset helped one client boost landing page engagement by 70% and unlock real-time data on what actually works. They also swap stories about their creative roots, why storytelling still matters more than ever, and how to combine emotion with metrics to create content that’s not just pretty—but profitable.

🔗 Connect with Mike:

🌎 kepkahouse.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/mike-kepka-91721751

📸 instagram.com/kepka

🔗 Connect with Andrew Swanson:

🌎 forerunner.tv

💼 www.linkedin.com/in/andrewforerunner/

✉️ Andrew@forerunner.tv

💬 What’s your biggest challenge in video marketing? Drop a comment below!

📢 Don't forget to FOLLOW & SHARE to stay updated on future episodes of The Curious Creative!

Creative Strategies with Daniel Cohen & Michael Arking from Social Motion

Mon, 17 Mar 2025 22:05:17 +0000

In this episode, Mike sits down with Daniel Cohen and Michael Arking — the innovative duo behind Social Motion— to reveal how blending authentic storytelling with data-driven tactics transforms video content into measurable results. They share their insights on merging creativity with strategy, video strategies that drive engagement and sales & behind-the-scenes secrets to turning every frame into a revenue-driving asset – join the conversation and elevate your brand!

🔗 Connect with Mike:

🌎 kepkahouse.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/mike-kepka-91721751

📸 instagram.com/kepka

🔗 Connect with Daniel Cohen:

🌎 socialmotionfilms.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/daniel-cohen-86b09b118/

📸 instagram.com/socialmotionfilms/

🔗 Connect with Michael Arking:

🌎 socialmotionfilms.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/michaelarking/

📸 instagram.com/socialmotionfilms/

💬 What’s your biggest challenge in video marketing? Drop a comment below!

📢 Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the NOTIFICATION BELL to stay updated on future episodes of The Curious Creative!

#TheCuriousCreative

#MikeKepka

#Socialmotionfilms

#MichaelArking

#DanielCohen

#VideoMarketing

#ContentMarketing

#Storytelling

Matt Gustaferro: The Art & Strategy Behind Video Production

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 23:20:09 +0000

In this episode Mike sits down with Matt Gustaferro, the creative force behind Hugo Creative, a DC-based video production company. Mike shares his fascinating journey from his years at The San Francisco Chronicle, where he documented the lives of eccentric characters, to his pivot into video production and strategy. He discusses the challenges of finding real, untold stories and how that experience shaped his approach to marketing content today.

💡 Key Takeaways from This Episode:

🔹 The art of making video content that actually drives results

🔹 Why authenticity is more than just a buzzword in creative marketing

🔹 Matt’s journey from photojournalism to leading a top video agency

🔹 How to blend emotion with data for truly impactful content

🔹 The importance of distribution & strategy—because great videos need the right audience.

🔗 Connect with Mike

🌎 kepkahouse.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/mike-kepka-91721751

📸 instagram.com/kepka

🔗 Connect with Matt:

🌎 hugo-creative.com

💼 linkedin.com/in/matt-guastaferro/

📸 instagram.com/hugo_creative

💬 What’s your biggest challenge in video marketing? Drop a comment below!

📢 Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the NOTIFICATION BELL to stay updated on future episodes of The Curious Creative!

#TheCuriousCreative

#PositiveMischief

#MattGustaferro

#MikeKepka

#VideoMarketing

#DigitalMarketing

#ContentMarketing

#Storytelling

#CreativeProcess

Brooks Patton: Breaking the Mold in Military & Government Marketing

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 11:00:27 +0000

In this episode of The Curious Creative, host Mike Kepka sits down with Brooks Patton, founder of Mother Wit, a creative video and strategy company based in Anchorage, Alaska. Brooks has built a reputation for disrupting traditional marketing strategies, particularly in military and government contracting, where innovation is often overlooked.

Brooks shares his game-changing approach to video marketing, including his work with military simulation company Plexus, where he helped reshape their messaging to compete with government-funded alternatives. His results-driven strategies focus on using emotional storytelling, awareness-based content, and engaging video experiences to drive real action—proving that marketing in these industries doesn’t have to be boring, outdated, or ineffective.

🔹 Key Takeaways from This Episode:

Innovating Military & Government Marketing – Why storytelling and emotional engagement matter in an industry known for jargon-heavy content.

From Awareness to Action – How Brooks crafts video campaigns that make high-level decision-makers pay attention and take action.

Measuring Success in a Data-Limited Industry – The challenges of tracking ROI in live environments and conferences vs. digital analytics.

The Power of Branding & Positioning – How Brooks is evolving his business by launching Contested High Ground, a niche agency dedicated to military and aerospace marketing.

Why AI Won’t Replace Creativity – Brooks’ thoughts on why AI tools are just that—tools—and why human experience, intuition, and storytelling will always set creative professionals apart.

Whether you're a marketing professional, military contractor, creative entrepreneur, or just someone fascinated by the evolution of digital storytelling, this episode delivers valuable insights on how to think bigger, bolder, and smarter in the ever-changing world of marketing.

🎧 Tune in now to learn how video strategy is transforming industries beyond entertainment!

#TheCuriousCreative #BrooksPatton #MilitaryMarketing #GovernmentContracting #VideoStrategy #DigitalStorytelling #ContentMarketing #MikeKepka #CreativeProcess #MarketingInnovation

Authentic Storytelling in Digital Marketing: Insights with Joe Wolfe

Wed, 11 Dec 2024 16:36:02 +0000

In this episode of The Curious Creative, host Mike Kepka engages with Joe Wolfe, Head of Paid Social at Optidge, a leading digital marketing agency specializing in performance-driven campaigns. Joe shares his expertise in crafting impactful paid social strategies for high-profile clients, including the Telly Awards and luxury brands like Degs & Sal.

Joe takes us through:

The essentials of paid social media campaigns, from pre-launch strategy to ongoing optimization.

How to balance creative development with data-driven decision-making to maximize ROI.

The importance of authenticity in marketing and why relatable, user-generated content can outperform high-budget productions.

His journey working with notable brands and scaling their success through innovative marketing strategies.

🔹 Key Takeaways:

Authenticity Wins: Joe emphasizes how genuine storytelling connects with audiences and drives measurable results.

Simplify for Success: Learn why starting with a few well-crafted assets often outperforms launching with dozens of variations.

Test, Refine, Repeat: Discover how analyzing metrics and iterating creative strategies can optimize campaign performance.

DIY for Impact: Joe shares why rolling up your sleeves and creating content yourself can inspire clients and jumpstart success.

Whether you're a marketing professional or a creative looking to sharpen your digital strategies, this episode is packed with practical advice and inspiration.

#TheCuriousCreative #JoeWolfe #DigitalMarketing #SocialMediaStrategy #PaidSocial #VideoMarketing #MikeKepka #MarketingTips #Storytelling #CreativeProcess #Podcast #Optidge

Ben Marcheski: From TV to Government Campaigns. Strategic Video Marketing

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 13:33:28 +0000

In this episode of The Curious Creative, host Mike Kepka sits down with Ben Marcheski, a seasoned video marketing professional whose career spans major media networks like National Geographic, PBS, and Discovery. Now the Creative Director at FedWriters, Ben shares his fascinating journey from producing high-energy TV promos to developing results-driven video strategies for government agencies.

Ben discusses his early days in media, reflecting on the evolution from traditional Nielsen-based metrics to today’s multi-platform digital tracking. Moving into the government sector, he explains the complexities of promoting agency initiatives with limited budgets and without traditional user data. Despite these challenges, Ben’s expertise has helped agencies educate the public on key initiatives and drive measurable engagement.

🔹 Key Highlights:

The Shift to Digital: Ben details his transition from traditional TV promos to digital video strategies, navigating the shift from single-channel to multi-channel marketing.

Government Campaign Challenges: Learn about the unique hurdles of government marketing, where data collection is limited, yet success depends on impactful messaging.

Crafting Effective PSA Campaigns: Ben explores the importance of PSAs and how clear, strategic content can elevate public awareness and prompt action.

Leveraging Metrics and Results: Discover how Ben’s team utilizes available metrics and analytics to refine campaigns, maximizing reach and engagement with minimal resources.

Advice for Creatives: Ben encourages aspiring marketers to stay current with the latest technology and focus on strategic, results-driven content that resonates across multiple channels.

Whether you’re a video marketer, a public sector professional, or simply curious about the impact of video in today’s digital landscape, this episode provides actionable insights into creating video that informs, engages, and delivers real value.

#TheCuriousCreative #BenMarcheski #VideoMarketing #MikeKepka #GovernmentCampaigns #PublicAwareness #DigitalStrategy #CreativeProcess #FedWriters #ResultsDriven

From Hollywood to Corporate: Bob Kelly on Results-Driven Video Strategy | The Curious Creative

Tue, 15 Oct 2024 10:00:16 +0000

In this episode of The Curious Creative, host Mike Kepka sits down with video marketing expert Bob Kelly, founder of CFG Creative. Bob shares his fascinating journey from the glitz and glamour of Hollywood TV, where he worked on iconic shows like Soul Train and Jeopardy!, to the corporate world of video production.

Bob takes us through his early career in Los Angeles, detailing how he moved from production assistant to joining the Directors Guild, only to be disrupted by the 1989 writers' strike, which eventually led him to pivot toward corporate video production. From managing live events to large-scale LED projects, Bob explains how his extensive background in television set the foundation for his success in corporate video marketing.

🔹 Key Highlights:

Hollywood Beginnings: Bob recounts his early days in the entertainment industry, working behind the scenes on major shows and even at the 1985 Oscars.

Transition to Corporate: After the writers' strike and an earthquake hit LA, Bob made the leap to Orlando and eventually settled back in Cincinnati, where he shifted to corporate video production and live events.

Building Trust and Relationships: Bob emphasizes the importance of building strong, long-term relationships with clients. He discusses how his team not only produces high-quality video but also integrates event production for a seamless experience.

Results-Driven Video Strategy: The conversation dives into the future of video marketing, focusing on measurable results rather than just aesthetics. Bob shares how tracking and optimizing video performance can lead to better client outcomes, helping companies reduce sales cycles and enter new markets.

Game-Changing Metrics: Bob explains how new tools allow his team to quantify the effectiveness of video strategies, offering clients clear data on which types of content generate the best results.

Advice for Creatives: As a final takeaway, Bob advises aspiring creatives to focus not just on beautiful imagery or storytelling, but on delivering measurable results for their clients.

Whether you're a seasoned filmmaker, marketing professional, or just interested in the evolution of video production, this episode offers deep insights into the industry’s past and future. Tune in to learn how to create video content that not only looks great but also drives real business results.

#TheCuriousCreative #BobKelly #VideoMarketing #Hollywood #CorporateVideo #MikeKepka #CFGCreative #ResultsDriven #Storytelling #CreativeProcess #BusinessStrategy #Podcast

Frank Siringo & Andres Rojas of Team Bubbly

Tue, 17 Sep 2024 06:00:16 +0000

Join us this week on *The Curious Creative* as host Mike Kepka sits down with the brilliant minds behind Team Bubbly, Frank Siringo and Andres Rojas.

This dynamic duo has been creating magic for over 12 years from their Manhattan-based full-service production agency, working with top brands like Nike, Amazon, Guinness, PayPal, and Levi's.

In this engaging episode, they share their journey, insights on teamwork, and how they've made their mark in the creative industry.

🔹 Key Highlights:

- The Origins of Team Bubbly: Frank and Andres share their unique story of how a chance meeting at a bar led to a successful partnership and the birth of Team Bubbly.

- Creative Process and Challenges: Dive into the stories behind their iconic projects and how they handle creative adversity.

- Communicating Vision and Building Relationships: Learn about the importance of authentic connections and how liking the people you work with can drive success.

- Success Stories and Iconic Collaborations: Discover the behind-the-scenes of working with brands like Saucony and how they brought Cookie Monster into the world of Lactaid.

- The Art of Storytelling in Advertising: Insights into their Levi's campaign that aimed to evoke nostalgia and connection.

- Tips for Aspiring Creatives: Get valuable advice for up-and-coming filmmakers and creators on navigating the industry.

Whether you're an aspiring filmmaker, a seasoned creative, or just someone who loves hearing about behind-the-scenes stories from the advertising world, this episode is packed with valuable insights and inspirational anecdotes. Don't miss out on how Team Bubbly stays ahead in the ever-evolving advertising landscape.

Avner Engel of Specialty Vision

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 06:00:19 +0000

Join Mike Kepka as he interviews Avner Engel about his new venture, Specialty Vision. Learn how Avner uses daily marketing videos to help specialty eye care doctors grow their practices. With years of expertise, Avner shares his innovative strategies and success stories from doctors who have transformed their business through video marketing.

Don't miss out on these valuable insights!

#EyeCare #VideoStrategy #HealthcareMarketing

David Belkin of Grid Avec

Thu, 08 Aug 2024 14:00:06 +0000

Welcome, fellow creatives, to another inspiring episode of "The Curious Creative" hosted by Mike Kepka of Kepka House. Today, Mike is joined by David Belkin, the founder of Grid Avec, Denver's newest and fastest growing community solar company. With more than seven years of experience in marketing solar projects, David brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the podcast.

In this episode, David shares his unconventional journey from being a Michelin star chef to becoming a community solar expert. He delves into his passion for renewable energy, recounting how he transitioned from culinary arts to energy brokerage, and eventually to community solar. David also discusses the importance of face-to-face interactions in the field, revealing that he's knocked on over 10,000 doors to promote solar projects.

Listeners will gain insights into the challenges and rewards of door-to-door sales, as David highlights the significance of mindset, consistency, and professionalism. He emphasizes the value of personal connections and shares anecdotes from his experiences, including how improv and sketch comedy have enhanced his sales techniques.

David and Mike also explore the role of video marketing in supporting "boots on the ground" sales efforts. They discuss how creative and entertaining content can break through the noise and effectively communicate the benefits of community solar.

Tune in to hear David's tips for aspiring sales professionals and entrepreneurs, as well as his thoughts on the future of renewable energy. Whether you're a marketing enthusiast, a renewable energy advocate, or simply curious about creative strategies, this episode has something for everyone.

Join us for an engaging conversation filled with practical advice, inspiring stories, and a touch of humor. Don't miss out on this opportunity to learn from one of the industry's most dedicated and innovative leaders.

Feel free to tune into "The Curious Creative" with Mike Kepka and be inspired by the journey and insights of David Belkin, a true community solar fanatic.

Lisa Reid of Nimble Works

Thu, 11 Jul 2024 14:08:57 +0000

Mike sits down with Lisa Reid, the co-founder of Nimble Works. With over three decades of marketing experience, Lisa shares her journey from working in major New York agencies like McCann to starting her own successful ventures with her sister, Barbara.

Discover how Lisa and Barbara's complementary skills and powerful collaboration transformed their small business into a thriving agency specializing in healthcare and health technologies. Listen as Lisa discusses the risks and rewards of leaving the security of a big agency to build something from the ground up, and the strategies that helped them succeed against formidable competitors.

Lisa shares candid insights into the challenges and triumphs of running a business, the importance of building trust with clients, and the meticulous process of creating impactful marketing content. Learn about their game-changing partnership with Philips Healthcare, where their passionate and emotional approach to pitching set them apart from larger agencies.

Lisa shares the nuances of creating authentic and relatable marketing content, especially in the healthcare industry. She emphasizes the significance of human connections, both in client interactions and in the stories they tell through their campaigns. From interviews with oncology nurses to capturing genuine moments on video, Lisa reveals the secret sauce to Nimble Works' success.

Whether you're a seasoned marketer, a budding entrepreneur, or simply curious about the creative process, this episode offers valuable lessons on the power of passion, perseverance, and personal connection in the world of marketing.

Tune in to "The Curious Creative" and get inspired by Lisa Reid's remarkable journey and the innovative spirit behind Nimble Works.

Morgan Dye of Meraki Communications Group

Thu, 30 May 2024 13:07:05 +0000

Host Mike Kepka a.k.a. ‘The Curious Creative’ is joined by Morgan Dye, Managing Partner of Meraki Communications Group.

Morgan shares her transformative journey through the diverse worlds of healthcare, transportation, social justice, and historic preservation.

Morgan discusses their groundbreaking public education campaign with The Sentencing Project, shedding light on the issues of mass incarceration in the United States. Learn about the creative process behind crafting award-winning video content that inspires and educates on a national scale.

The conversation delves into the core of inclusivity in marketing, stressing the significance of representing every voice in our campaigns. Whether you're a marketer, a communications specialist, or just someone passionate about social justice, there's something in this talk for you.

Morgan and Mike also tackle complex issues such as key performance indicators, the art of maintaining valuable client relationships, and the unique demands of crisis communications.

Key Highlights:

- Morgan's professional background and expertise.

- Story and strategy behind the success of The Sentencing Project campaign.

- Importance of diversity and inclusion in marketing.

- Best practices for managing and measuring the success of marketing efforts.

- Challenges and strategies in crisis communication.

- Don't miss out on these expert insights and engaging stories that will elevate your marketing game!

#InclusiveMarketing #DiversityInMarketing #PublicTransportation #MassIncarceration #CrisisCommunication

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