In today’s episode, host Hayley Bohan sits down with Gilles Essiembre, founder and head coach of O2Max, a company that helps clients improve longevity and athletic performance through metabolic and respiratory training.

If you’re an entrepreneur who’s struggled with finding the right market, balancing personal priorities with business, or staying persistent in the face of setbacks, this episode is packed with insights just for you.

Key Points Discussed:

• The Power of Adaptation: Gilles shares how he had to pivot his marketing strategy from targeting athletes to focusing on longevity clients. This switch played a pivotal role in the growth of his business.
• Following Your Gut: Sometimes, your instincts are the best guide in business. Gilles talks about when to trust your gut, even if it means walking away from potential profit to do what's best for the client.
• Balancing Life and Business: Hayley and Gilles discuss the challenge of balancing health and business and how stepping back to reassess can prevent burnout.
• Finding the Right Clients: After years of trial and error, Gilles found success by marketing to clients who value longevity, proving that focusing on the right audience can transform your business.
• One Handshake Away: Gilles explains the importance of networking, as a single introduction can change the trajectory of your business.
• The Importance of Respiratory Training: Gilles breaks down how respiratory muscle training can improve your body’s efficiency, leading to better oxygen absorption, improved fat burning, and even enhanced cognitive function. This kind of training not only benefits athletes but also contributes to long-term health and longevity.

Additional Resources:

• Connect with Gilles at O2max or on LinkedIn.
• Listen to Hayley’s interview with Kathryn Speer on proactive health
• See how you can work with Hayley to clarify your message too, here.

Tune in to hear how staying flexible and prioritizing relationships has helped Gilles build a thriving, purpose-driven business.

Don’t forget to subscribe to the Daring Dreams podcast and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode!

Welcome to another episode of Daring Dreams: Heart & Strategy in Small Business Marketing. In this episode, Hayley Bohan sits down with Sean Casey, a seasoned entrepreneur and Professional Golf Association of Canada coach, who shares his journey of building BurlOak Indoor Golf—an innovative, full-service golf facility catering to golfers year-round.

Key Takeaways:

1. The Power of Taking the Plunge: Sean emphasizes the importance of committing fully to your vision, even when the path is uncertain. His journey from concept to opening Burloak Indoor Golf highlights the need for perseverance and adaptability.
2. Navigating Challenges: Learn how Sean overcame the hurdles of COVID-19 shutdowns and the unexpected closure of his previous academy, leading to the birth of a new business that not only survived but thrived.
3. Creating a Premium Experience: Discover the thought process behind creating a high-end golf facility, from selecting the right location to designing an unforgettable customer experience. Sean’s focus on quality—from the technology used to the ambiance—sets Burloak apart in a competitive market.
4. Balancing Work and Life: Sean opens up about the challenges of maintaining work-life balance while running a demanding business. He shares practical advice on stress management and the importance of staying passionate about your work.

Resources & Links:

Burloak Indoor Golf – Check out Sean’s golf facility in Burlington, Ontario.

HeartMath – A tool mentioned by Sean for managing stress through mindfulness and heart rate variability.

Getting Started- Check out the Marketing On Purpose Academy and set the foundation for consistent and more predictable revenue. 

Feeling inspired to turn your passion into a thriving business? Tune in to hear Sean’s journey and take the first step towards making your dream a reality.

Is your marketing sucking the life out of you? Dramatic, yes, but certainly the way many small business owners feel. Join host, Hayley Bohan, in this episode of Daring Dreams: Heart & Strategy in Small Business Marketing as she transforms the dread of marketing into an enjoyable and effective part of your business journey.

In this episode, Hayley dives into the common struggles small business owners face with marketing. From hating the process to feeling overwhelmed by a lack of results, she addresses it all. Hayley shares three signs that marketing is draining you, offers actionable steps to combat these issues, and provides a powerful mindset shift that can turn marketing from a chore into a helpful tool for your business.

Key Takeaways: Three Signs Marketing is Draining You:

1. You hate marketing.
2. You're not seeing results.
3. You keep putting it off.

Two Quick Actions to Improve Marketing:

1. Assess and adjust your current efforts.
2. Play to your strengths and interests.

One Mindset Shift:

View marketing as a way to help your ideal customers find and choose you.

Instagram Strategy Tips: https://www.instagram.com/hayley_bohan/

Feeling drained by your marketing efforts? Tune in to this episode and discover how to breathe new life into your strategies. Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review if you found this helpful!

Ever wondered what it takes to break free from the corporate grind and start your own business? Join us in this episode of Daring Dreams as we chat with Sue Oland, a former corporate leader who made the bold move to entrepreneurship.

Guest Introduction: In this episode, host Hayley Bohan sits down with Sue Oland, a seasoned corporate marketer and leader who recently founded Good People Business Consulting. With a wealth of experience in corporate strategy and leadership, Sue shares her journey of leaving the corporate world behind to pursue her entrepreneurial dreams.

Summary: Sue Oland opens up about her transition from a high-level corporate career to starting her own business. She discusses the reasons behind her decision, the challenges she faced, and the personal growth that came with embracing entrepreneurship. From overcoming the fear of promoting herself to redefining what success means, Sue’s story is a testament to the bravery and determination required to make such a significant life change.

Key Points:

• Sue’s background in corporate marketing and leadership
• The concept of "golden handcuffs" and why Sue decided to break free
• The hurdles and personal challenges faced during the transition
• The importance of redefining success and identity as an entrepreneur
• Tips on finding authentic marketing strategies that work for you

Additional Resources: Visit Good People Business Consulting Website

Follow Good People Business Consulting on Instagram @GoodPeopleConsultants

Subscribe to Daring Dreams for more inspiring stories and actionable marketing insights. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review and share it with your network!

Welcome back to Daring Dreams: Heart & Strategy in Small Business Marketing! In this inspiring episode, host Hayley Bohan chats with Lorraine Peters, founder of the Development Academy and a participant in the upcoming Miss Universe Canada pageant. Lorraine's story is one of courage, resilience, and the unyielding pursuit of passion.

Guest Introduction: Lorraine Peters is not only a seasoned entrepreneur but also a beacon of inspiration for women everywhere. With a rich background in modeling and personal development, Lorraine has dedicated her life to helping others build confidence and soft skills. Now, she's taking on a new challenge as the oldest contestant in the Miss Universe Canada pageant.

In this episode, Lorraine shares her incredible journey from teaching self-improvement courses to pivoting her business during the pandemic and finally stepping into the world of beauty pageants. Hayley and Lorraine discuss the importance of bravery in pursuing one's dreams, the challenges of niching down in business, and the transformative power of self-confidence.

Key Points:

• Lorraine's background in modelling and personal development.
• The impact of the pandemic on her business and her pivot to focusing on newcomers to Canada.
• The personal breakthrough moment with Hayley reshaped Lorraine's understanding of her purpose.
• The decision to compete in the Miss Universe Canada pageant and the significance of this step.
• The broader implications of bravery and vulnerability in both business and personal growth.

Additional Resources: Follow Lorraine Peters on Instagram and LinkedIn Learn more about the Development Academy here.

Don't forget to subscribe to Daring Dreams and leave us a review! Follow us on social media for more inspiring stories and actionable marketing tips.

Welcome to the first episode of Daring Dreams: Heart & Strategy in Small Business Marketing. Today, Hayley Bohan dives into her absolute favourite topic – the importance of building a brand strategy for small business owners and solopreneurs. In this episode, Hayley introduces the "three, two, one" framework, offering three compelling reasons, two actionable tips, and one inspiring story on why you need to create a brand strategy.

Show Notes:

• Introduction: Hayley Bohan discusses the significance of infusing personal values and beliefs into your business through a brand strategy.
• Three Reasons to Create a Brand Strategy:
  • Clarity: A well-defined brand strategy provides clarity on your brand’s identity, messaging, and differentiation in the market.
  • Meaning: Infusing personal values and beliefs into your brand creates a meaningful and fulfilling business journey.
  • Ease: A strong brand strategy simplifies marketing efforts by providing a clear direction and consistent messaging.
• Two Actionable Tips:
  • Know Your Customers: Engage with your customers to understand why they choose your business.
  • Believe in Your Legacy: Envision your business as more than just a product or service – see it as a lasting legacy.
• Inspiring Story: The journey of Khryspn Jensen, a first aid trainer, who transformed her business through a solid brand strategy, eventually creating a franchise model.
• Call to Action: Visit our website to learn more about building a brand strategy, and check out Hayley’s book, "Brand Worth Loving," for a step-by-step guide.

Additional Resources:

• Brand Worth Loving Book
• Marketing On Purpose Website
• Legacy Builders Lab (Learn to create your Brand-Worth-Loving with Hayley)

If you're ready to bring clarity, meaning, and ease to your business, create a brand strategy. Head over to our website for resources and courses to get you started. Don't forget to subscribe to Daring Dreams for more insightful episodes!

Welcome to another episode of the Daring Dreams podcast! I'm your host, Hayley Bohan, and today, I'm thrilled to be joined by my dear friend and past client, Kathryn Speer. Kathryn is the owner of Thermography Clinic NB, and her story is a must-listen for anyone contemplating a leap into entrepreneurship or looking for proactive health strategies.

Key Points:

• Kathryn's impressive journey from a corporate executive to a thriving small business owner in the health sector.
• How thermography plays a crucial role in proactive health, detecting physiological changes before they develop into diseases.
• Kathryn's personal health scare that led her to discover thermography and eventually build her business.
• The challenges she faced starting her business during the pandemic and how she overcame them.
• The importance of identifying and understanding your ideal client for business success.
• The value of showing up authentically and consistently in business and health.

Guest Introduction: Kathryn Speer is the passionate owner of Thermography Clinic NB. With a background in corporate business and a personal health scare that changed her life's direction, Kathryn now dedicates her work to proactive health and wellness through thermography.

Additional Resources:

• Learn more about Kathryn's clinic: Thermography Clinic NB
• Follow Kathryn on Instagram: @thermography_clinic_nb

If you’ve been inspired by Kathryn’s journey and want to take a proactive step in your health, visit Thermography Clinic NB to learn more about how thermography can help you. Don't forget to subscribe to the Daring Dreams podcast for more inspiring stories and actionable marketing insights!

In this episode of Daring Dreams, host Hayley Bohan sits down with Vero Arseneault, the creative mind behind Ava Rose and Sail Away jewelry. Vero shares her journey from crafting jewelry in a small rural town to seeing her designs worn by celebrities at the Emmys and featured in Vogue. 🎉

While her jewelry was already turning heads, Vero realized that her brand needed a transformation to match her bold, artistic vision. That’s where Hayley came in. In this conversation, they dive deep into how Vero built a brand that reflected her values of inclusivity, creativity, and self-expression, turning it into one that resonates on a global scale.

What You'll Learn in This Episode:

• How Vero went from a small-town artist to an Emmy-featured jeweler.
• The key steps to transforming a business from the ground up with a customer-focused brand strategy.
• How to build a brand that’s not just seen but felt by your customers.
• The importance of aligning your business with your personal values and beliefs to achieve authentic growth.
• Practical tips on how to rebrand your business to stand out in a crowded market.

Resources Mentioned:

1. Bold jewelry for all humans at Ava Rose 
2. Fashion jewelry at Sail Away.
3. Follow Ava Rose Jewelry on Instagram or TikTok.
4. Learn more about Hayley’s Marketing on Purpose Days (held in NB, Canada)
5. Learn more about how to build your own Brand-Worth-Loving with Hayley's book. Buy on Amazon.

If you’re feeling stuck in your branding journey or ready to elevate your business, this episode is a treasure trove of insights. Tune in, get inspired, and don’t forget to subscribe and leave a review!

Welcome back to Daring Dreams: Heart & Strategy in Small Business Marketing! This episode features Lisa Moser, a former parole officer turned passionate quilt shop owner. Host Hayley Bohan dives into Lisa’s inspiring journey, from her first custom quilts to KP Quilting Studio’s expansion as a beloved local hub. Lisa opens up about her courageous leap from a stable career to fulfilling her entrepreneurial dream, the strategic pivots she made during COVID-19, and how embracing change helped her business thrive.

What You’ll Learn:

• How a life-changing request from a friend set Lisa on a new career path
• Why her calculated risks and flexible planning propelled her forward.
• The importance of authenticity, community, and customer loyalty in building a resilient business
• How the COVID-19 pandemic unexpectedly fueled KP Quilting Studio’s growth

Key Takeaway:

Lisa’s journey shows that the right mix of passion, adaptability, and trust in your community can lead to unexpected growth—even in the most challenging times.

Resources Mentioned:

KP Quilting Studio: kpquiltingstudio.com

Follow KP Quilting Studio on Facebook

Tune in to hear Lisa’s story and get inspired to embrace your own daring dreams. Whether you’re facing setbacks or dreaming of a new path, this episode has something for you!

In today’s episode, host Hayley Bohan dives into one of the most powerful strategies small business owners can adopt: niching down. If you’ve ever felt hesitant about narrowing your target audience, this episode will help you reframe that fear into opportunity. Hayley outlines why reaching everyone actually means reaching no one, and shares inspiring examples, from GoPro to Bubbles and Bombs, demonstrating how businesses thrive by targeting a specific audience.

This episode’s 3-2-1 breakdown includes:

• Three reasons why niching down creates stronger customer connections, boosts authority, and improves ROI.
• Two actionable ways to discover and establish your niche.
• One must-follow tip for targeting the right customers without fear of losing potential buyers.

Hayley also shares advice from her book Brand Worth Loving, encouraging you to zero in on a “minimal viable audience” to increase loyalty, customer connection, and profitability.

Guest Mention: Hayley teases an upcoming episode with Judith and Justin from Bubbles and Bombs, who honed in on sensitive skincare to create a unique and impactful niche in the skincare market.

Resources Mentioned:

Brand-Worth-Loving: How to Build An Authentic Small-Business Brand that Inspires.

Build Your Buyer Persona Online Course

Ready to find your niche and stand out? Tune in for practical advice, real-world examples, and a bit of brand philosophy to help you take your business to the next level by narrowing your focus.

In this powerful episode of Daring Dreams, host Hayley Bohan sits down with Pam Pastrik, founder of NB Copes, a nonprofit that provides creative, holistic grief support to families navigating the loss of a loved one. Pam’s journey began with personal tragedy, but she transformed her pain into a purpose-driven organization that’s helping others heal. Along the way, she has faced the unique marketing challenges of building a nonprofit—crafting a message that’s not just compelling, but deeply personal and heart-centered. Pam shares the marketing strategies that have helped NB Copes grow and become a key player in supporting grieving families on the East Coast. With a focus on local engagement, long-term community building, and art therapy, Pam’s story is both inspiring and insightful for anyone navigating the complexities of nonprofit marketing.

You’ll hear about:

• Storytelling as a core marketing tool: Pam’s ability to authentically share her own experiences with loss helped establish deep emotional connections with families, sponsors, and supporters. Building a grassroots movement: How Pam shifted from a national organization to a local nonprofit, enabling NB Copes to resonate with local stakeholders and donors.
• The power of long-term communities: Instead of short-term programs, NB Copes fosters ongoing relationships between grieving families, creating a lasting support system and reinforcing loyalty to the organization. Art therapy as a differentiator: Learn how Pam’s passion for art became a key part of NB Copes’ brand, positioning it as a unique service in the region.
• The importance of advocacy and evidence: Pam explains how she used research on the impact of grief on children to convince stakeholders of the nonprofit’s importance, helping to secure critical funding.
• Leveraging relationships: Pam highlights how forming meaningful connections with key community members helped her gain traction for NB Copes, ultimately leading to organic growth and deeper community involvement.

This episode isn’t just about marketing a nonprofit—it’s about doing so with heart. Pam’s approach is a masterclass in blending purpose, passion, and strategy to build an organization that truly makes a difference.

Guest Bio: Pam Pastrik is the founder of NB Copes, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting families coping with grief and loss. Drawing from her personal experiences and her background in art therapy, Pam has created a grassroots movement that combines creativity, community, and compassion to provide long-term healing for families. NB Copes offers family retreats and art-based programs designed to foster connection and offer holistic support. Learn about NB Copes here.

Key Takeaways:

1. Storytelling Matters: Personal stories are the cornerstone of nonprofit marketing. Pam’s willingness to share her own grief has helped her build trust and engage donors.
2. Long-Term Connections Build Loyalty: Fostering a sense of community beyond single programs creates a strong, supportive network that stays engaged with the organization.
3. Use Your Passion to Differentiate: Incorporating Pam’s background in art therapy has not only provided healing for families but also helped NB Copes stand out in the nonprofit space.
4. Start Local for Sustainable Growth: Focusing on local engagement, Pam was able to establish a grassroots movement, building support through authentic relationships.

Are you inspired by Pam’s story of purpose-driven marketing? Don’t miss this chance to learn how to build a nonprofit brand with heart. Subscribe to Daring Dreams and share this episode with anyone interested in nonprofit marketing or community-building strategies.

In this episode of Daring Dreams, Hayley Bohan sits down with Tanya Nace, CEO of World Hope International Canada, to reveal the marketing strategies and bold moves that led to life-changing results.

Tanya explains how their shift to a virtual model, creation of a clear donor persona, and use of short-form video content transformed both their brand and the communities they serve. From drilling wells that provided clean water and safety to building schools that stopped girls from being exploited, this episode is the perfect blend of strategy and heart. Discover how marketing can do more than drive growth—it can change lives.

Key Points:

• Marketing with Impact: How World Hope used branding, storytelling, and donor personas to create a sustainable growth model.
• Transformation through Action: Real-world results from strategic marketing, including clean water access and education initiatives.
• Donor Engagement Tactics: The power of personalized outreach and online events to keep donors connected and inspired.
• Embracing Short-Form Content: How quick, engaging videos on social media drove donor involvement and spread awareness.
• The Role of Hope: How World Hope balances hopeful messaging with the serious, impactful work they do around the globe.

Additional Resources:

• Learn more about World Hope International Canada and their transformative projects at worldhope.ca.
• Follow Hayley Bohan on Instagram and LinkedIn for marketing tips and inspiring business stories.

Want to see how strategy meets heart in small business marketing? Subscribe to Daring Dreams and learn how to build a brand that transforms both your business and the world!

Judith and Justin Sweeney, the founders of Bubbles and Balms, share their inspiring journey of building a values-driven skincare business over the past 10 years. From battling imposter syndrome to navigating major pivots during the pandemic, they’ve learned how to turn challenges into opportunities.

🎯 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How to build confidence and push past imposter syndrome.
• Why simplifying your product offerings can lead to greater success.
• The importance of mental health in entrepreneurship.
• Lessons on pivoting and adapting during times of uncertainty.

📌 Episode Highlights:

00:00 – Meet Judith and Justin Sweeney and their passion for skincare.

05:50 – Overcoming imposter syndrome as new entrepreneurs.

15:30 – How they pivoted from in-person markets to e-commerce during COVID-19.

25:45 – Why simplifying product offerings improved their marketing and sales.

32:10 – The value of a strong brand identity and lessons from rebranding.

43:20 – Managing mental health challenges while building a business.

50:10 – Key advice for entrepreneurs on learning, mentorship, and persistence.

💡 Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

Bubbles and Balms: Visit their website: bubblesandbalms.ca

Hayley’s book Brand Worth Loving: Check it out here ✨

Ready to Build Your Dream Business? Tune in now to hear Judith and Justin’s inspiring story and get actionable advice to fuel your entrepreneurial journey.

Don’t forget to: Subscribe to Daring Dreams on your favorite platform.

Leave a review to let us know your favourite takeaway. Every review helps us reach more small business owners who dare to dream big!

Feel like your marketing is trying to reach everyone—but landing with no one? This episode will show you exactly what happens when you get hyper-clear on who you serve and how to speak to them. Hayley Bohan sits down with Jason Bahamundi, founder of Run•Tri•Bike, a digital media brand built for everyday endurance athletes. What started as a niche idea is now a global movement—and it all began with a laser-focused message.

Guest Introduction:

Jason Bahamundi is the founder of Run•Tri•Bike, a digital media company on a mission to prove that there's space at the starting line for everybody—and every body. With 25 years in sales and marketing, Jason launched the brand during the pandemic and has since grown it into an international platform of newsletters, social content, and a podcast network. He shares exactly how he did it—without chasing trends or trying to be everything to everyone.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why niche brands grow faster (and how to know if you're too broad)
• The value of saying the same thing over and over again (until it sticks)
• How Jason pivoted from print to digital without losing advertisers
• Why storytelling beats hard selling in niche marketing
• The key to building loyal brand partnerships (and knowing when to say no)
• How Run•Tri•Bike speaks to a defined audience—and still reaches globally
• Jason’s mantra: Get bored with your message—it means it’s working

Mentioned in This Episode:

RunTriMag.com

Start With Why by Simon Sinek

Hayley’s Buyer Persona Course (create messaging that connects)

If you’re building a brand with heart but feel scattered in your strategy—this episode is a masterclass in clarity. Tune in now, share it with a business bestie, and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes of Daring Dreams.

Would you ever believe that worms and laughter could be the foundation of a successful business—and a killer marketing strategy?

In this episode, Hayley Bohan sits down with Cathy Nesbitt, founder of Cathy’s Crawly Composters, to dig into the dirt (literally!) on unconventional marketing, media magnetism, and how staying rooted in purpose can power your brand visibility.

Guest Introduction: Cathy Nesbitt is a health and sustainability advocate, a multi-award-winning entrepreneur, and the founder of three eco-minded ventures: Cathy’s Crawly Composters, Cathy’s Sprouters, and Cathy’s Laughter Club. Based just north of Toronto, Cathy has been transforming perceptions of composting for over 23 years—and she’s been featured in over 300 media stories for her efforts.

Summary: Cathy shares her incredible marketing journey, from launching a worm composting business nobody wanted to touch, to becoming a sought-after media source and workshop leader. She dives into:

• How she used timely press releases and current events (like the 2002 Toronto garbage strike) to generate buzz.
• Why educating through schools became her gateway strategy.
• How laughter yoga helped her combat burnout—and became her next marketing tool.
• Her grassroots approach to visibility: showing up everywhere, pitching creatively, and saying “yes” to media.

Marketing Takeaways:

• The power of press releases in positioning yourself as a solution.
• Why passion-fueled persistence outperforms polished strategies.
• How leveraging personal quirks and authenticity makes your business magnetic.

Resources & Links:

1. Cathy's Crawly Composters Website
2. Free Laughter Yoga Tuesdays
3. Cathy's YouTube Channel

4. Cathy's Linked In

5. Marketing On Purpose 

Got an unconventional business idea? This episode will convince you to stop hiding and start pitching! Subscribe, leave a review, and join our marketing community over at Marketing On Purpose.

Feeling like you’re making it up as you go? Wondering if you're "qualified" enough to build your business? You’re not alone — and you don’t have to stay stuck there.

Guest Intro: In this episode, Hayley Bohan sits down with Patricia Regier, founder of Regier Education Inc. Patricia is a learner-focused educator, entrepreneur, and speaker who helps people create engaging and inclusive online learning experiences. With over 20 years of experience in adult education, a Master’s degree, and a YouTube channel with over 900,000 views, Patricia empowers facilitators, small business owners, and leaders to design courses and content that truly connect — whether through tools like YouTube, digital platforms, or live workshops. She is also passionate about creating inclusive, neurodiversity-aware learning environments that serve diverse groups of learners.

Summary: Patricia shares her honest entrepreneurial journey — one that started with exploration, pivoting, and figuring it out as she went. While her story is deeply relatable for many entrepreneurs, Hayley provides key insights into how starting with brand clarity can help business owners avoid costly detours, overcome imposter syndrome faster, and build with confidence. They also discuss comparison traps, how AI tools can boost confidence, and why understanding marketing basics is crucial even when outsourcing.

Key Marketing Strategy Takeaways:

• Why brand clarity accelerates growth (and minimizes imposter syndrome)
• How Patricia built a thriving YouTube channel as part of her marketing strategy 
• The real risks of "comparisonitis" and how to avoid it
• What you need to know before hiring outside help for marketing
• The importance of small, consistent steps in content creation

Additional Resources:

🎁 Free YouTube Startup Tips from Patricia

✅ Patricia Regier – Regier Education Inc. - Website

✅ Connect with Patricia on LinkedIn

✅ Subscribe to Patricia’s YouTube Channel

✅ Follow on Instagram

✅ Patricia’s book: The Online Shift

✅ Hayley Bohan’s Branding Resources — learn how to build clarity from the start! If you’re tired of winging it and ready for brand clarity, confidence, and a real growth plan, check out my branding services and strategy sessions. I help entrepreneurs get unstuck and build with heart and strategy.

Have a brilliant business idea but unsure how to bring it to market? This episode is your blueprint. Marketing isn’t just part of the launch—it IS the launch.

Guest Introduction: Sara Furlong-Warren, Chief Content Officer and Co-Founder of Storyay, joins Hayley Bohan to share how her team successfully launched an innovative children's product using a highly strategic marketing approach. With 20 years of experience in kids’ entertainment and publishing, Sara brings deep insight into what it takes to go from idea to fully funded Kickstarter.

Episode Summary: Launching a business isn't just about building the product—it’s about building the market. In this episode, Sara shares:

• How Storyay reimagined children's reading with serialized, personalized, mailed stories.
• Why they prioritized brand strategy before anything else.
• The importance of a pre-launch runway and how they used social media, PR, and live TV appearances to build early trust.
• How Kickstarter served as both funding and a powerful marketing tool.
• The importance of educating the customer when selling something truly unique.
• The vital role email marketing plays in conversion and retention.
• How the team built out a full-circle strategy to drive attraction, conversion, retention, and expansion.

Whether you’re launching a new product or considering a pivot, Sara’s approach is a masterclass in small business marketing strategy.

Additional Resources:

Connect with Sara and learn more about Storyay

Instagram - TikTok - Facebook - Website

Connect with Hayley

Instagram - Facebook - Website - Book

 👉 If you're feeling stuck on your own business launch, make sure you're following Daring Dreams and subscribe for more marketing strategy deep dives!