In this week's video, we explore why even the most prestigious and established brands are struggling to maintain their edge in an ever-changing market. Elite brands once relied on their name, exclusivity, and reputation—but in today’s world, that's no longer enough. People are looking for more than just a product; they want to connect with brands that offer a sense of belonging and community. We dive into how top-tier brands are facing challenges in reaching the next generation of affluent consumers and what they can do to regain their influence. From traditional wealth management firms to luxury fashion, the shift from simply selling products to creating experiences is real—and it’s something every brand needs to understand. Join the conversation: What are some of the luxury or elite brands you’ve remained loyal to, even when cheaper alternatives were available? Why do you choose them? Drop your thoughts in the comments below. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I didn’t have a budget. Or connections. Or even a fully-formed plan. What I did have was an idea—and a camera in the corner of a one-bedroom apartment. This episode unpacks a defining moment from my early YouTube days: how I went from filming solo workouts in my NYC apartment to partnering with one of the most iconic luxury landmarks in Manhattan—The Plaza Hotel. No money exchanged. No backdoor connections. Just a different kind of value. It’s a story that challenges the traditional playbook: How do you earn trust… before you have credibility? How do you create opportunity… when no one’s opening doors? It turns out, the answer had nothing to do with pitching—and everything to do with perspective. I stopped asking what I needed, and started solving for them. That shift became the foundation of what would later become a global curriculum on influence. Key Reflections from the Episode: 💡 Real influence isn’t bought—it’s built through value exchange 💡 “No budget” can be your greatest creative superpower 💡 Influence starts when you stop leading with your ask 💡 The best partnerships often begin with a problem you didn’t know they had Let’s open the conversation: Is paying for posts really “influencer marketing”? Or just modern-day ad spend? Share your thoughts—I’m listening. 📍Next up: Why Creating Community Trumps Selling Products (Hint: Even Wall Street's Elite Are Changing The Game) #InfluenceRedefined #BrandStrategy #NoBudgetBigMoves #ThePlaza #AmandaRussell #ContentWithPurpose #MarketingThatMatters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One topic of conversation we haven't really discussed on the show is regarding the subject of NFTs - a topic that mystifies even the most forward thinking marketers and brand executives. Even if we understand the general concept, few of us really grasp how can they be used for brand marketing.Yet, it is undeniably the future and to compete the brands who are leveraging this are coming out ahead - just look at the likes of Dior and Louis Vuitton, not to mention small startups now sky rocketing thanks to their use of NFTs. Ok ok, so we understand the potential power, but where do you even? begin? Most of us are not technology platforms, nor do we have endless pockets to shell out. In this episode, Doug Neil, ex Universal EVP Doug Neil was named Marketing, Brand Chief At NFT Platform Chronicle breaks it down for us, and gives us the way of the land, alongside actionable insight on how you may want to use NFTs and what you can do to get started. For more information: •Chronicle: https://www.chronicle.io/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

While most think of influencer marketing in terms of social media users representing consumer brands, what if you are a B2B company. Does influencer marketing translate well in a B2B paradigm? We are joined by Tim Williams, CEO of Onalytica, whose company has been helping B2B brands generate results with influencer marketing for nearly decade. He also explains the rationale behind their recent launch of the world's largest influencer marketplace - for B2B! For more information: •Onalytica: https://onalytica.com •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After spending 10 years over-working and burning out while building a credit card processing company into 38 states and a networking events company for over 30,000 people (which she later sold), she learned the wrong way to do it, and then discovered that there was a better way. Darrah Brustein has both inspired and influenced millions to reach higher and dream bigger. Having worked with Shaq, Deepak Chopra, Seth Godin, Bobbi Brown, Jillian Michaels, Adam Grant, Robert Herjavec, Nastia Liukin, Cam Newton, and the list goes on as well as brands like Chase, Visa, Toyota and FedEx, she digs into what it takes to build true influence, and it has nothing to do with 'following a passion' or taking great Instagram photos. We were riveted by this episode, a must listen! For more information: •Darrah Brustein: https://darrah.co/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most CMOs accept that with intense global competition and increased commoditization of products and services, the final frontier in differentiation is in the customer experience. This is the basis of what customer experience marketing is all about, and today we have the world's leading expert on the subject, Dan Gingiss, who just wrote the definitive book on the subject, The Experience Maker. In our conversation we take customer experience marketing one step further to unpack the natural intersection it has with influencer marketing, and how companies can begin to treat their customers as influencers and encourage them to incite word-of-mouth marketing. For more information: •Dan Gingiss: https://dangingiss.com •The Experience Maker: https://dangingiss.com/the-experience-maker-book/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A huge focus of this podcast is about showcasing brands and people who have achieved incredible levels of true influence in their space, and that is very different from simply having a social media following. In fact, some of the most powerful examples hapen completely offline. Dr Curtis Crane's episode will give you goosebumps, not only has he literally saved lives and created new ones becoming one of the most influential people in the space of transgender surgery, BUT he has done so entirely OFFLINE. So what does this mean? We talk about how to go about achieving real influence, and Dr Crane gets candid about cutting his teeth on the use of online to grow that influence and the movement! For more information: •Dr. Curtis Crane: https://cranects.com/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Roger Dooley is one of the true thought leaders in the field of neuromarketing. He has focused his work on understanding unconscious influence, and has written a best-selling and authoritative book (Brainfluence) and has a podcast of the same name. If we are trying to figure out what influences people, and 95% of what influences people is in the subconscious, what tools do we have to better understand influence? Listen in as Roger shares his wealth of knowledge and experience on the subject with us. For more information: •Roger Dooley: https://rogerdooley.com •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How do you launch a beauty brand and get the biggest celebrities and A-listers on the planet to endorse you without having to shell out the big $$$ (or any $$$)? How do you win investors with no beauty-brand experience? How do you get on the shelves of conglomerates like Target in one of the most hyper competitive industries? Nyakio Grieco not only founded and sold the award winning skincare brand, Nyakio Beauty, with all but no resources and experiences, but she hustled her way to the top and is now leading a movement to give influence and expertise to other founders. This is the story of true influence and how to leverage it to build an empire and a movement for the greater good of the world. For more information: •Nyakio Beauty: https://www.nyakio.com/us/en •Thirteen Lune: https://thirteenlune.com/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pranav Yadav is one of those brilliant people in the industry I respect a lot who I've wanted to have on the show because I think he brings something so incredibly valuable (plus he's witty)! He's the founder/CEO of Neuro-Insight, a key player in building the neuromarketing industry, and he has changed how brands and customers communicate for the better. He has also been on every 'top of the top' list worth mentioning in our industry including Ad Age 40 Under 40, AMA 4 Under 40, Ad People of the Year, Forbes 30 Under 30, and Forbes Under 30 All-Star Alumni. This conversation literally takes all the guess work out of the future of marketing. He's one of the smartest and influential people among the neuromarketing industry, so having him on the show to learn from is a big pleasure! For more information: •Neuro-Insight: https://www.neuro-insight.com/ •Pranav Yadav on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pranavyadavpy •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In every episode we dig in to find out their actionable secrets and strategies to command real influence, and in this episode Kanika Chadda Gupta, former CNN journalist and top rated podcaster who is also a master of creating connections with high profile individuals, explains how she was able to get some of the most influential women in the world, including Rebecca Minkoff, Bobbi Brown, Natalie Morales and many more to stand behind her when she changed careers and quickly built what is now one of the top rated podcasts for working women. Whether it's securing lucrative sponsorships, solidifying dream clients, or building a lead magnet, Kanika divulges some brilliant concepts and ways to think about influence marketing that might just inspire you to raise your own bar. For more information: •Kronologie Agency: https://www.kronologieagency.com/ •That's Total Mom Sense Podcast: https://kanikachaddagupta.com/podcast/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Many would say you'd be crazy to try and compete with the L'Oreal's and Estee Lauder's of the world to launch a beauty brand, especially with no experience in the beauty space. That didn't stop Divya Gugnani, a former Goldman Saks executive, to defy the odds, successfully launching what is now one of the most beloved all natural cosmetics brands in the world: Wander Beauty. She discusses how she broke through with stars like Heidi Klum, Emma Roberts, and Sarah Jessica Parker spreading the word for her. Add to that, the company has been featured in many notable media outlets, such as Vanity Fair, Allure, and Marie Claire, and has won over 30 beauty awards, including multiple Allure "Best of Beauty" awards. Neal and Amanda catch up with Divya to dig deep into how she did it, from launch to retention. This 20 minutes packs so much wisdom, you will want to grab a pen and paper to take notes! For more information: •Divya Gugnani on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/divya-gugnani-6ba98 •Wander Beauty: https://wanderbeauty.com •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

I didn’t set out to disrupt how we measure influence—but that’s exactly what happened. When I launched this community experiment, I wasn’t just testing engagement. I was testing a principle I’ve spent years exploring: real influence isn’t about followers or flashy credentials—it’s about meaningful connection and lasting impact. And you proved it beautifully. Our experiment revealed something powerful that goes against what most marketing “experts” preach. The most influential voices weren’t the first to comment, the most credentialed, or the loudest. They were the ones who created value that transcended the algorithm. They did it through: -Thoughtful vulnerability in sharing real challenges -Genuine generosity in offering perspective to others -Resonant connection that amplified everyone’s understanding This is what I call the Value-Connection Matrix of influence—where the quality of your contribution meets the depth of your engagement. Let me introduce our Three Strong Members who embodied this kind of influence: 🥇 Erin @erinbreitenbach4362 — You didn’t try to have all the answers. You asked better questions. Your presence invited deeper exploration and elevated our conversations. 🥈 Kana @kanalivolsi7124 — You named the tension between performance and authenticity in a way that gave voice to what so many of us feel. Your words created clarity and connection. 🥉 Allan @allanlxn1— You modeled influence as evolution, not perfection. Your willingness to refine your thinking publicly made a lasting impact. Real influence isn’t about performance. It’s about presence. If you've ever questioned your impact in the noise of social media—this is for you. This isn't just content. It’s a learning lab in motion. And you’re a crucial part of it. Join the next chapter: 1. Share a moment from your week when something or someone influenced your thinking or decision. 2. Offer perspective on two other community members' experiences. The real masterpiece isn’t what we build online—it’s how we create value for each other. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode is proof that any one at any age can use social media to build their brand, cultivate a global community, and ultimately transform their life! We interview the most famous plumber, YES plumber, in the world, Roger Wakefield, and learn how this man started a YouTube channel to gain more clients and how he grew it to make 7 figures annually JUST from YouTube! Roger discusses how he came to be an influencer and why, what his experience has been collaborating with brands, and he gives sound advice for those out there looking to build their own influencer platforms.This show isn't just informative, it's inspiring and will move you to action - GUARANTEED! For more information: •Roger Wakefield on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGIMKh92vaL0_Yc0u4GYhHA •The Trades Academy: https://www.thetradesacademy.com/gittnow •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Businesses that innovate yield unparalleled influence. But how does an organization or ourselves innovate? Author of the newly published RE:Think INNOVATION, Carla Johnson, argues that people make innovation much harder than it has to be. She also says that coming up with great ideas isn't a talent one is born with or a skill that takes years to learn. Are you ready to innovate to influence? Listen in for an inspiring episode guaranteed to get you started innovating! For more information: •Carla Johnson: https://carlajohnson.co •RE:Think INNOVATION on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3hPmW31 (affiliate) •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Content is the currency of digital media, but its more than that: Smart businesspeople are becoming content entrepreneurs and launching businesses from their content. New media companies are being born every day. Learn how to build influence through content from the #1 authority on content marketing, best-selling author and founder of Content Marketing Institute AND Content Marketing World, Joe Pulizzi. For more information: •Joe Pulizzi: https://thetilt.com •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The king of sports marketing, Brandon Steiner, breaks down his approach to building influence in a unique way, with incredible unique and inspiring examples of how he did it, not just with some of the biggest athletes of our time, but to create and scale his influence into so many ventures. This podcast took an expected twist and provided priceless value that will leave you inspired! For more information: •Brandon Steiner: https://brandonsteiner.com/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Most business leaders misunderstand influencer marketing to be just about selfies and vanity metrics. The core concept of influence marketing, creating and tapping into influence, has been around way before social media. It is also equally applicable to businesses as it is to consumers. Listen in to Amanda and Neal's advice for those of you that want to achieve more with your business or career through building influence inside and outside of social media. For more information: •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does it take to become one of the most respected influencers in the highly competitive space of fitness? Caroline Pearce has done it all, from world class athlete to the host across some of the biggest broadcasting platforms for sports (ESPN and SKY), to being the face and chief educator of several top equipment and nutrition brands - and they all work and support each other. Caroline had to take a major pivot with the rise of social media. How was she to stay relevant in world where instagram followers was valued more than expertise, credentials and training? Well, she has mastered it! And been able to combine both traditional and social media, and forge partnerships worthy of 'best of' case studies. Find out how she did it, and how you can too. This episode is so inspiring, you won't want to miss it! For more information: •Caroline Pearce on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolinepearce/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Host of Good Morning LA LA Land and Fanvestor Report talks about the hustle to garner the mainstream spotlight in traditional media. For more information: •Jezlan Moyet's Moyet Rose Wine: https://blendtique.com/moyetrose/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week Neal and Amanda do something a little different! They speak to renowned Board Certified Orthopedic Surgeon and Stanford Continuing Studies Instructor Dr. Allan Mishra, who has been working to grow his side hustle into a full-fledged business. Dr Mishra asks Neal and Amanda for advice. If you are an entrepreneur, or just looking for guidance on how to grow your audience, this is the episode for you. For more information: •Dr. Allan Mishra's Dare to Be Vital: http://daretobevital.com/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is the man that created the $4 billion television network E! which pioneered the entertainment of mainstream celebrities. But what many don't know are the bigger ventures he's scaled all over the world, from China to Russia - there are few people that hold more influence than Larry Namer. In this candid interview, we ask Larry about what he's learned about influence, who has it, how to achieve it, and his strategies for observing popular cultures anywhere in the world and then being able to create content that is relevant in that country. For more information: •Fanvestor: https://www.fanvestor.com/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ann Handley, co-founder of MarketingProfs, began her career as a journalist, and her roots in storytelling and understanding the needs of her audience helped her launch a media business which has since evolved into becoming the premiere destination for professionals and educators to learn and get training for marketing, The best-selling author of two books, The Content Code and Everybody Writes, Ann continues to trail blaze the path forward for enterprises and professionals on how to create content that connects in a deep way. Learn all about how Ann built her influence through and content and how you and your company can as well. For more information: •Ann Handley: https://annhandley.com •MarketingProfs: https://marketingprofs.com •Ann Handley's Books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Ann-Handley/e/B003OSWOGS •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nothing teaches you the power of influence more than when you don't have it. This realization didn't come from books or experts—it emerged from those humbling moments when visibility didn't translate to impact. I've spent years navigating the tension between what we're told influence is and what actually moves people to action. What I've discovered challenges everything we've been conditioned to measure and celebrate. There's a deceptively simple truth about influence that changed everything for me—a missing piece that explains why some voices cut through while others, equally qualified, go unheard. We're not the purely logical beings we pretend to be in boardrooms and strategy sessions. This isn't just theory—it's the difference between campaigns that look successful on paper but fail to drive action, and those quieter moments that create seismic shifts in behavior. Watch to discover the equation that will transform how you build influence in business and life. #AmandasPlaybook #Influence #TrustBuilding #AuthenticLeadership Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When Mark Cuban calls YOU ask for an investment in your company, you know you have a pulse on influencer marketing, not to mention a truly influential company! But when you look at what Shep and his company have accomplished in just 3 short years, it's no surprise. He has spearheaded the growth of cult-like communities for some of the world's fastest-growing brands, known for creating the most unique and sought-after campaigns which have driven actionable engagement, billions of impressions, and sparked massive trends across social media. There is so much value in every minute of this interview you may want to grab a pen and takes notes. No matter what you are currently doing, you will benefit from this perspective because this future is already upon on. For more information: •Shep Ogden [Offbeat Media Group]: https://www.omg.media/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The world of talent management is very confusing - even people who do it have trouble explaining it. And if you've ever reached out to a celebrity or social media star, chances are you may have been passed along to some agent or manager. In my experience, this is often where the buck stops, as many marketers get turned off. But having had a talent manager myself back when I (Amanda Russell) was in the fitness world, the power of a great one can be a game changer for both the brands and the influencer . It doesn't necessarily mean the influencer is going to cost you a fortune, or that you cannot form a real and personal relationship, quite the opposite is true. The key comes to navigating how to get through what I like to call the golden gatekeeper. To do this you need to understand their role and how to connect with them first. Johanna Voss represents a number of highly successful influencers ranging in categories from lifestyle to finance, and she gives perspective on how to navigate the waters of managers and agents, and what marketers need to know about working with them. For more information: •Johanna Voss: https://www.johannavoss.com/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Miri Rodriguez went from a Community Manager to becoming one of Microsoft's top influencers and Storytellers. Now she is the author of Brand Storytelling and advises other companies how to bring out the stories from their employees. Listen in as Miri teaches you about the unique connection between storytelling and influence. For more information: •Miri Rodriguez: https://mirirod.com/en/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New York Times Best-Selling author Dave Kerpen emerged as a major marketing influencer out of nowhere with his Likeable brand, books, and successful agency. Dave explains the importance of branding and relationships in building and sustaining influence. For more information: •Dave Kerpen: https://davekerpen.com/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rand Fishkin did not wake up one day and decided he was going to build one of the leading SEO software platforms. He has been on a mission to help people, whether it is search engine optimization with MOZ or making market research accessible to everyone through SparkToro. Rand shares his incredible entrepreneurial journey and is a living testament that nice guys don't always finish last. For more information: •SparkToro: https://sparktoro.com •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Whether it's A-list celebrities looking to launch their own brands or successful entrepreneurs looking for advice, there is one person they call: Dave Alberga. Dave is the silent and humble influence behind many of the biggest brands you know. It seems as if anything he touches turns to success, and for the first time ever, he opens up about the factors he believe have led to this. His answers will surprise and delight you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In business, ambitious people either aspire to become an influential leader in their industry, or grow a company into greatness, Dr John Layke managed to do both, and he is far from stopping. What has been his formula to translate influence across categories? Find out in this riveting interview. Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Group: https://www.beverlyhillsplasticsurgerygroup.com/johnlayke/ Beverly Hills MD: https://beverlyhillsmd.com/ Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jessy Grossman not only manages influencer talent, she also founded the rapidly growing community of women marketers. Her view of influencer marketing comes from the lens of influencers as social media content creators. Women In Influencer Marketing: https://iamwiim.com/ Jessy Grossman on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessygrossman/ Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How does one become an influencer in a crowded online space and launch a successful business? John Lee Dumas began as a podcaster and now generates 7 figures from a variety of digital and physical products. His Entrepreneurs on Fire podcast is one of the most popular business podcasts of all time. JLD shares what he has learned on his entrepreneurial journey and a culmination of his analysis with his new book, The Common Path to Uncommon Success. Reference Links •The Common Path to Uncommon Success on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3csHfAC (affiliate) •John Lee Dumas Website: https://www.eofire.com/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Barry's Bootcamp CEO Joey Gonzalez explains the human science that enabled them to influence the way people work out, and got celebrities flocking to them! Joey shares how Barry's Bootcamp changed the game for fitness and created a cult-like following with an audience that includes Hollywood's top A-list celebrities flocking to them and bragging about it. Not an easy feat, but Joey reveals exactly how they did it, starting with building the infrastructure. Reference Links •Connect with Joey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gonzalezjoey •Join Barry's Bootcamp! https://www.barrys.com/country-select/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when achievement becomes the very thing stopping you from growing? After my recent Amanda's Playbook launch event, I received this refreshingly direct feedback: "Great event, but I'm still not entirely sure what Amanda's Playbook is all about." The truth? The ambiguity isn't a failure—it's intentional. In this episode, I reveal: -Why established success paradoxically makes us MORE risk-averse at the precise moment we should be innovating -How my journey from competitive runner to fitness entrepreneur to academic taught me the danger of "first place paralysis" -The unexpected reason I returned to YouTube after years in academia and corporate consulting -Why learning together creates stronger connections than presenting perfectly polished ideas JOIN THIS WEEK'S EXPERIMENT: Make your way over to my YouTube video and comment your biggest influence challenge (personal or professional), then respond to at least two other community members. Next week, I'll highlight the three most influential contributors who share meaningful challenges and thoughtful responses. This isn't just content to consume—it's an invitation to build something together. Amanda's Playbook is a living laboratory where we'll test what actually works now, not what worked years ago. 🔔 Subscribe for weekly experiments, strategies, and insights on building real influence in 2025 and beyond. #TheStatusParadox #BuildingInfluence #AmandaRussell #MarketingStrategy #LeadershipChallenge #InfluencerMarketing #CommunityBuilding Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The motorcycle-driving, tattoo loving classic 'bad boy look' that Shane Vitaly had rocked since his anti-authoritarian childhood was not a likely candidate to create a global jewelry brand...for men! And yet by age 34 he boasts an 8 figure (and vastly growing) empire. In addition to the complete story of how he built his kingdom, he talks about identifying influencers early on and the role it has played in scaling his business. •Connect with Shane on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaneforan1/ •Shop Vitaly Design! https://www.vitalydesign.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the professional and private spheres, we are constantly searching for ways to maximize our influence. In this interview, Jen Groover challenges the old persuasion styles of marketing that hold most people and business back from actualizing their growth potential. She argues that influence is something that can be learned but it starts with a transformation in how we think. Reference Links •Jen Groover's The More Method: https://amzn.to/2NrsYv7 (affiliate) •Jen Groover's Website: https://jengroover.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Austin Ligon has demonstrated influence at the highest level, the ability to not simply launch a new product, but an entirely new concept, in an industry peppered with skepticism: buying cars. Our conversation with him covers his time as cofounder of CarMax from its inception to his retirement in 2006. Since then, we discuss his key roles in other ventures as director of Redfin, Rev.com, CarTrade and Startup Angels. He continues to influence aspiring leaders by serving on the board of St. John College, Yale School of Management and University of Texas, Plan II Honors Program. As one of the inaugural members of the UT Texas Fellows, 2018, he mentors others who aspire to new heights in their own roles as influencers. His perspective of leadership and active engagement is inspiring to all. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The man who literally broke the 'model' for what it means to be a fashion photographer. Having worked with every major iconic face of our time, Nigel not only understands influence, he has amassed what can be considered industry-changing influence - from prime time reality shows to furniture collections, clothing labels and gyms, the man knows what it takes to grow one's brand, no matter the space. Reference Links • Nigel Barker: http://www.nigelbarker.tv/ • Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co • Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We often think of influence as being about individuals with large followings, but Rampolla makes the case for leveraging all stakeholders as strategic key influencers. Rather than large followings, he argues the value of going deep and narrow with influencer engagement. Reference Links • Mark Rampolla: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marksrampolla • Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co • Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lamborghini CMO Katia Bassi has paved a new way of defining influence from her leadership. Learn why "Brands should inspire to expand people's cultural horizons". Reference Links • Katia Bassi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katia-bassi-6692655/ • Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co • Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jesse Itzler on what it REALLY takes to achieve INFLUENCE (and it's NOT experience). Reference Links • Jessie Itzler: https://jesseitzler.com • Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co • Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andy Roddick talks about no longer cringing at the word 'influencer', and how to leverage fame to create greater social good influence. Reference Links •Andy Roddick Foundation: https://www.arfoundation.org/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Listen to influencer marketing authors and professors Amanda Russell and Neal Schaffer talk about why they are launching The School of Influence podcast and why you should be excited enough to hit the subscription button and listen in! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After walking away from YouTube years ago and vowing never to return, I'm back—with a revelation that ironically explains exactly why I left. My journey since those early fitness videos has transformed me in ways I never anticipated. It's led me through building subscription businesses, selling a production company, publishing a book, and ultimately into the halls of prestigious business schools who’s mission is to “shape how business and marketing is taught to future leaders”. But something profound happened that compelled me to break my "never returning to YouTube" promise. This isn't just another comeback story or content creation venture—it's a response to a critical disconnect I've witnessed firsthand, one that affects anyone trying to build something meaningful in today's digital landscape. Each week, I'll be sharing a revolving mix of insights, examples & real-time experiments that bridge the gap between theory and implementation. This isn't just content for you to consume—you're essential to the process as we discover what actually works in 2025 (not 2010). To my original fitness community who've witnessed every pivot of this journey—thank you for your unwavering support. The authenticity we built together remains at the heart of this new chapter. Watch or listen to discover why I believe we need to revolutionize marketing education and how we'll do it together. 📍 New episodes weekly 📍 Join the community testing real strategies in real-time 📍 First experiment launches next week 📍 Follow me on Instagram and TikTok for more! @amandasplaybook #AmandasPlaybook #MarketingRevolution #MarketingEducation #TheoryToPractice #DigitalMarketing #RealTimeMarketing #MarketingCommunity #2025Marketing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover how an ordinary water cooler transformed into a $300 status symbol without being different OR unique. In this episode, I break down YETI's extraordinary influence strategy that turned customers into brand evangelists. I reveal the three key principles behind YETI's massive success: Identity Over Innovation- Why YETI sells who you become, not what you buy Community Over Commodity- How they created an exclusive club people pay to join Movement Over Marketing- The genius of having customers pay to advertise for you As someone who's built a career studying influence and developed MBA curriculum at institutions like Kellogg School of Management and Bocconi University, I share practical insights on what makes brands truly influential. YETI didn't try to stand out from the crowd - they became the crowd everyone wanted to stand in. Learn the difference between attention and true influence, and why emotional connection trumps rational features every time. Whether you're a marketer, entrepreneur, or just curious about brand influence, this case study offers valuable lessons on creating movements instead of just marketing products. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

When we talk about influence in social media, we tend to dwell on consumer-centric sites such as Instagram and TikTok. But what about influencing the world through your creation of a robust personal brand? Or perhaps leveraging your employees to yield more influence for your brand through social media? Are Instagram and TikTok still the ideal places to invest time and energy? Of course not, and this is something today's guest, Sandra Long, has been speaking and writing about for nearly a decade, including her definitive work "LinkedIn for Personal Branding." When you and your company are ready to influence the influential demographic that is on LinkedIn, listen in as Sandra uncovers both how to improve our personal branding and influence on LinkedIn as well as how brands can leverage the influence of their employees on the unique and often misunderstood social network that is LinkedIn. For more information: •Sandra Long on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/longsandra/ •LinkedIn for Personal Branding on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/LinkedIn-Personal-Branding-Ultimate-Guide/dp/B08VCQWRQ8/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Why is it that some companies have rockstar founders and CEOs? Why does EVERYONE know the name of say Steve Jobs, but few know the names of his successors or partners for that matter? Why do some leaders get all the glory, and some none at all? Donnetta Campbell, Founder of TheSocialArchitects, LLC (www.thesocialarchitects.co), has created a unique social media architecture and methodology that delivers authentic social engagement for brands, institutions, and senior leaders. She developed and orchestrates a powerful "peer-to-peer" influencer leadership, specializing in "earned-influence" personal brand building and guiding corporate digital platforms through her #SocialPR™. She fuels her eco-system with over 300 top influencers and offers clients an influential reach into social's key networks. Brand partners, including SAP, NASDAQ, A+E Networks, Bloomberg Images, Innovation Enterprise, Power Shift Forum, Crowe Horwath and The Harry Walker Speakers Agency are embracing her unique models, SocialPR™, SocialDolby™, and SocialHR™ to optimize their impact. To date, Donnetta's strategic initiatives have generated over 8.7 billion impressions for more than 350 personal brands and 100 events. She is passionate about educating groups regarding Social Influencer Models and opens 'Innovation Enterprises Brand Innovation Summits' around the globe. She has spoken at SMW; Crowe Horwath; SAP'S Global Offices, HR and Executive Leadership Groups; Digital Summit for National Retail Federation; Advertising Club of NY; Georgetown University; Oxford University; Tribeca Disruption Innovation Awards; UCONN Business School; and CUNY Social Media Weekend. She was chosen as the Social Media Disruptor in Residence for Harvard's and Tribeca's Disruptor Foundation. For more information: •Donnetta Campbell on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnettacampbell •The Social Architects: www.TheSocialArchitects.co •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Smart organizations have realized the incredible influence that key employees can and have yielded online. Timothy Hughes, CEO and Co Founder of DLA ignite, has been at the forefront of this movement of helping companies large and small transform their organizations digitally through both Social Selling and Smarketing, which are also the names of two books Timothy has written. Listen in as Timothy breaks down the steps you should take to ensure you digitally transform your business and tap into the opportunities and influence that await. For more information: •Timothy Hughes on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothyhughessocialselling/ •DLA ignite: https://dlaignite.com/ •Amanda Russell: https://amandarussell.co •Neal Schaffer: https://nealschaffer.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices