Explore every episode of the podcast Vox & Coin
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unicorn Campaign: Kettle & Fire with Niccolò Gloazzo | 20 Jun 2025 | 00:22:27 | |
In this episode of Unicorn Campaigns, host Dave Valentine sits down with Niccolò Gloazzo, a former Nike marketer turned growth leader at Kettle & Fire, the premium bone broth brand redefining what it means to win in the DTC and retail space. From performance-driven playbooks to brand partnerships that break category norms, Niccolò shares what it takes to scale smart — even in uncertain times. 🔥 In this episode, you’ll learn: How Niccolò transitioned from global giant Nike to the fast-paced, high-stakes world of Kettle & Fire and DTC strategy. Why product quality is non-negotiable — and how it underpins loyalty across both digital and in-store shoppers. The tactics that help Kettle & Fire bridge online marketing with retail media, and why omnichannel consistency is crucial for growth. How influencer marketing and brand collaborations open new audiences and drive full-funnel performance. What consumer behavior is telling us in an age of economic uncertainty, and how premium brands can still thrive. 🎯 Whether you're running paid campaigns, launching a wellness CPG brand, or exploring how to connect online and offline, Niccolò’s insights on marketing, strategy, and leadership deliver the goods. Keywords for discovery: Kettle and Fire, Niccolò Gloazzo, bone broth brand, DTC marketing, retail media strategy, influencer campaigns, omnichannel growth, brand loyalty, consumer behavior trends, performance marketing podcast, CPG marketing, Unicorn Campaigns podcast 📲 Learn more at kettleandfire.com or follow them on social to see how premium wellness meets premium marketing. 🎧 Subscribe to Unicorn Campaigns for more behind-the-scenes stories of wildly successful marketing moves that built brands worth raving about. | |||
| Vox & Coin: Marketing Myths That Refuse to Die | 18 Jun 2025 | 00:55:35 | |
In this episode of Vox & Coin, hosts Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek and Dave Valentine take a wrecking ball to some of the most dangerous and costly myths in marketing—from the belief that marketing ends at the sale to the idea that slapping up a logo means you have a brand. 💡 Spoiler: If your CMO thinks their job ends once someone buys… you’re in trouble. ✨ This episode covers: Why “marketing ends at acquisition” is a myth that kills retention The real cost of building an in-house marketing team vs. hiring an agency Why Google punishes your AI content dump (yes, really) The secret math behind SEO success (and how AI messes it up) Why nobody reads every word on your website—and what they actually do instead What the F-pattern is and how it should shape your page design and copy 🧠 Plus: “Marketing is the setter, not the spiker”—a volleyball analogy for your funnel A live cost breakdown of in-house vs. agency SEO (with eye-popping numbers) The truth about copywriting: it’s all about the hole, not the drill Rapid-fire mythbusting: hosting, logo design, content velocity, Google Ads, and more Why Liquid Death and Minecraft trailers are chef’s kiss examples of brand mastery 🎯 Whether you’re an eCom brand scaling to 8 figures, a scrappy founder on your 3rd pivot, or a CMO tired of internal politics, this episode arms you with the insight (and firepower) to stop wasting time on bad ideas—and start leading marketing that actually works. Search-optimized keywords: marketing myths 2025, agency vs in-house marketing, SEO content strategy, AI content Google penalty, branding vs logo, customer retention vs acquisition, digital marketing strategy podcast, website copywriting tips, F pattern content design, hiring a marketing agency vs team, bad marketing advice myths, SaaS marketing podcast, ecommerce growth tips, behavioral marketing strategy. 💥 It’s blunt. It’s brutal. It’s the myth-busting episode your CMO needs to hear. Need help growing without falling for the usual marketing lies? Visit us at voxandcoin.com or follow Jake @wizardmarketing and Dave @realdeval. 🎙️ Subscribe and drop us a review—so more brands, founders, and marketers can stop following bad advice and start building brands that last. | |||
| Vox & Coin: Choose Engagement Over Followers for Social Success | 20 May 2025 | 00:44:36 | |
Welcome to the first episode of Vox & Coin, where eCommerce insights collide with unfiltered conversation. Hosted by Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek and Dave Valentine, this debut episode dives deep into the real ROI of influencer marketing and why engagement rate trumps follower count in 2025 and beyond. Whether you’re a startup founder, marketing exec, or eCom brand owner, this episode breaks down:
Plus, we unpack a real-world example where a product gifted to a small creator outperformed campaigns with creators 10x their size—and why that kind of authentic brand advocacy is the future of social commerce. This isn’t theory—it’s the playbook. From Topgolf and Totino’s to Lincoln and Duolingo, we dissect what works, what flops, and what you should do next. If you’re tired of wasting money on follower counts and want to grow your brand with real engagement, authentic partnerships, and high-converting content, this is your new favorite podcast. Keywords to help you find us: influencer marketing, eCommerce podcast, TikTok algorithm, micro-influencer strategy, engagement rate, social media ROI, user-generated content, authentic branding, product marketing, digital advertising, social proof. Subscribe and leave a review if you’re ready for honest takes and tactical breakdowns that’ll help you market smarter, not louder. Follow Jake at @wizardmarketing and Dave at @realdeval on TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn. | |||
| The Last Drop: Cereal Killer - A Subscription Cereal & Puzzle Box | 16 Jun 2025 | 00:45:56 | |
What do cereal, puzzles, and a dash of murder mystery have in common? Find out on this episode of The Last Drop, where Dave and Jake crack open a deliciously clever business idea: Cereal Killer – a monthly subscription box that delivers unique cereals paired with interactive puzzles straight to your doorstep. As they sip a crisp Fonio Lager from Our Culture Brewing Company, the duo dives deep into: Branding and packaging innovation Nostalgia-driven marketing (decoder rings, anyone?) Subscription mechanics and unit economics Collaborating with puzzle makers and legacy cereal brands The big question: better ingredients vs. better storytelling Whether you're a cereal connoisseur, puzzle fanatic, or just love watching business ideas come to life with a side of banter, this episode is packed with insight, strategy, and laughs — all the way down to the last drop. Subscribe to The Last Drop and discover what happens when creativity meets commerce over a cold drink. Got a wild business idea? Drop it in the comments – we might just build it next. | |||
| Unicorn Campaign: Morning Mugs with Tyler DellaRatta | 13 Jun 2025 | 00:40:32 | |
In this episode of Unicorn Campaigns, host Dave Valentine sits down with Tyler, the founder of Morning Mugs, a Baltimore-based coffee shop that’s redefining the café experience one color sleeve at a time. What started as a playful mug game in an office kitchen turned into a full-blown brand movement — with lines out the door and customers dreaming in purple. 🔥 In this episode, you’ll learn:
🎯 Whether you’re building a food & beverage brand, launching a brick-and-mortar store, or just want to turn customers into storytellers, Tyler’s approach to joy-first marketing and playful consistency is packed with inspiration. Keywords for discovery: Morning Mugs Baltimore, gamified coffee shop, coffee marketing ideas, small business branding podcast, experiential marketing, brand storytelling, coffee sleeve game, customer retention strategy, emotional branding, cafe entrepreneur journey, marketing joy, Simon Sinek brand why, hospitality marketing podcast, Unicorn Campaigns podcast 📲 Follow @morningmugscoffee on all platforms or stop by one of their Baltimore locations to play the color game yourself. 🎧 Subscribe to Unicorn Campaigns for more behind-the-scenes stories of wildly successful marketing moves that built brands worth raving about. | |||
| Vox & Coin: Why Most Customer Journeys Suck | 11 Jun 2025 | 00:51:15 | |
In this episode of Vox & Coin, hosts Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek and Dave Valentine break down why most brands butcher the customer journey—and how to fix it with intentional design, strategic delight, and marketing that actually anticipates what your customer needs next. 💡 Spoiler: If your post-purchase flow starts with a receipt and ends with silence, you’re doing it wrong. ✨ This episode covers:
🧠 Plus:
🎯 Whether you're an eCom brand, agency owner, or SaaS startup, this episode gives you the playbook to stop losing customers after the sale—and start creating moments they’ll actually remember. Search-optimized keywords: customer journey optimization, post-purchase marketing, customer delight strategy, onboarding experience tips, product packaging UX, how to improve retention 2025, best customer experience brands, re-enrollment marketing, delight-driven UX, Apple packaging psychology, SEO onboarding tips, small business marketing podcast, behavioral marketing insights, service business retention strategy. 💥 It’s insightful. It’s unexpected. It’s the wake-up call your customer journey needed. Need help mapping your journey or upgrading your onboarding flow? Visit us at voxandcoin.com or follow Jake @wizardmarketing and Dave @realdeval. 🎙️ Subscribe and leave a review—so more founders, creatives, and brand builders can stop sending receipts and start building relationships. | |||
| Unicorn Campaign: Zebra with Ken Newman | 06 Jun 2025 | 00:42:50 | |
In this episode of Unicorn Campaigns, host Dave Valentine chats with Ken Newman, the VP of Marketing at Zebra Pen — a brand that's quietly revolutionizing how we think about something as simple as writing. From songwriter competitions to fortune cookie fortunes, Ken’s creative strategies prove that even the most everyday products can spark unforgettable campaigns. 🔥 In this episode, you’ll learn: How Zebra Pen created national buzz by aligning with National Songwriters Day and spotlighting undiscovered artists who still write lyrics by hand. The origin of the iconic “Find Zen in Your Pen” campaign — and how it evolved from a product differentiator into a movement around mindfulness and mental health. Why Zebra invested in a 3D animated zebra mascot, and how simple packaging changes helped consumers finally “get” the brand. The wild marketing idea that put Zebra Pen inside millions of fortune cookies—and why it worked. Ken’s leadership philosophy, shaped by years as a coach and educator, and why great marketing starts with great internal culture and management. 🎯 Whether you’re selling tech, tools, or tangible goods, Ken’s story is a masterclass in emotional branding, out-of-the-box campaigns, and staying relevant in a digital-first world. Keywords for discovery: Zebra Pen marketing, songwriting campaign, pen and paper movement, find zen in your pen, creative brand strategy, consumer product campaigns, coaching leadership in marketing, product storytelling, Ken Newman Zebra, Unicorn Campaigns podcast, fortune cookie marketing, songwriting sweepstakes, mental health awareness marketing, small budget big brand impact 📲 Follow Ken on LinkedIn and explore Zebra Pen’s campaigns at zebrapen.com — and don’t miss their ZenOffice videos on YouTube for a clever twist on office culture. 🎧 Subscribe to Unicorn Campaigns for more behind-the-scenes stories of wildly successful marketing moves that built brands worth raving about. | |||
| Vox & Coin: Champagne Tastes on a Water Budget | 04 Jun 2025 | 00:46:15 | |
In this episode of Vox & Coin, hosts Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek and Dave Valentine get brutally honest about budgets, expectations, and what it really takes to get results in SEO and paid ads. Spoiler: if you’re thinking small and local without the revenue to back it up, you might not be ready for the big leagues—and that’s okay. 💰 From real talk about low-budget pain to practical thresholds for meaningful ROI, this episode covers:
🧠 Plus:
🎯 Whether you're running ads yourself, hiring an agency, or building your first marketing funnel, this episode is your no-BS benchmark for what actually works—and what just wastes time and money. Search-optimized keywords: minimum ad budget 2025, how much to spend on ads, SEO pricing breakdown, SEO vs ads ROI, digital marketing spend thresholds, best ad budget for small business, SEO timeline 2025, when to quit a client, local SEO budget tips, Facebook ads budget 2025, PPC spend calculator, marketing agency expectations, campaign ROI marketing podcast, advertising milestones by spend, real client marketing stories. 💥 It’s raw. It’s real. It’s the conversation you wish someone had with you before you lit your last $3,000 ad budget on fire. Want tailored help with your budget or strategy? Visit us at voxandcoin.com or follow Jake @wizardmarketing and Dave @realdeval. 🎙️ Subscribe and leave a review—it helps more founders and marketers find the show and stop wasting cash on weak strategies. | |||
| Unicorn Campaign: The Dirty Italian with Talya Pessolano | 30 May 2025 | 00:27:36 | |
In this episode of Unicorn Campaigns, host Dave Valentine chats with Talya Pessolano, the founder of The Dirty Italian — a South Boston deli that’s anything but ordinary. From importing rare cheeses to crafting custom grazing tables for baby showers, Talya’s brand blends bold flavor, hospitality, and high-performing marketing that turns everyday customers into raving fans. 🔥 In this episode, you’ll learn:
🎯 Whether you're running a local food business or a national eCommerce brand, Talya’s journey highlights the power of personal branding, community collaboration, and keeping your marketing both simple and stunning. Keywords for discovery: South Boston deli, The Dirty Italian, charcuterie catering Boston, email marketing success story, small business growth podcast, unicorn campaigns podcast, trending audio Instagram, social media strategy for restaurants, female food entrepreneurs, Boston food scene, grazing tables Boston, Italian catering Southie, food service marketing tips, from software to deli owner, small business marketing ideas. 📲 Follow Talya at @taliasdirtyitalian on Instagram or visit thedirtyitalian.com to learn more. 🎧 Subscribe to Unicorn Campaigns for more behind-the-scenes stories of wildly successful marketing moves that built brands worth raving about. | |||
| Vox & Coin: The Marketing Tools That Blew Our Minds | 28 May 2025 | 00:49:35 | |
In this episode of Vox & Coin, hosts Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek and Dave Valentine unpack the most mind-blowing marketing and business development tools they’ve ever used—and why choosing the right tech stack can make or break your growth. 🧰 From enterprise dashboards and AI automations to lightweight, budget-friendly solutions, this episode covers:
🔍 Plus:
🎯 Whether you're a solo founder or leading a marketing team, this episode is your no-fluff, all-playbook breakdown of the software stack we use and recommend to real businesses every day. Search-optimized keywords: marketing tech stack, AI tools for marketing, automation software, best CRM for small business, SEO dashboard 2025, Zapier vs Make, Adriel review, best proposal software, repurpose.io, best social media posting tools, startup marketing software, digital agency tools, influencer marketing stack, project management Monday.com vs Asana, best free CRM 2025, top SaaS for business owners, tools for sales enablement. 💥 This is your toolkit. No sponsorships. No fluff. Just the software that’s actually working for real businesses in 2025. Want to talk tools for your brand? Hit us up at voxandcoin.com or find Jake @wizardmarketing and Dave @realdeval. 🎙️ Subscribe and leave a review to help other marketers and founders discover the show! | |||
| Unicorn Campaign: Platesfull with Sharon Kuriakose | 23 May 2025 | 00:12:18 | |
Sharon Kuriakose, the CEO and Co-founder of Plates Full, an innovative online personal chef marketplace discusses the motivations behind creating Plates Full, the company's rapid growth across Texas, and their unique marketing strategies. He shares insights on the importance of trust, quality, and customer obsession. Sharan emphasizes the significance of networking, partnerships, and a multi-faceted marketing approach to building a successful business. Tune in to learn more about Plates Full's mission to become the go-to brand for in-home dining experiences and their future expansion plans. | |||
| Unicorn Campaign: Jack Georges Inc. with Jack Georges | 22 Aug 2025 | 00:22:54 | |
What does it take to build a luxury brand that lasts nearly four decades? In this episode of Unicorn Campaigns, Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek sits down with Jack Georges, founder of his namesake leather goods company, to uncover the grit, discipline, and timeless craftsmanship that built a high-end brand long before the internet changed everything. From starting out as an immigrant working 80-hour weeks for $2.50 an hour to running his own U.S. manufacturing operation, Jack’s story is one of resilience, adaptation, and relentless focus on quality. Together, Jake and Jack dig into:
🎯 Whether you’re building an e-commerce brand, launching a luxury product, or just starting out, this episode is packed with timeless wisdom on growth, resilience, and staying true to your craft. 🔔 Subscribe for more real stories of brand builders, trailblazers, and innovators who turned sparks into Unicorn Campaigns. 📣 Connect with us: Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek on TikTok: @jakethewizard Jack Georges: JackGeorges.com | |||
| Vox & Coin: The Business of Faking It | 20 Aug 2025 | 00:45:19 | |
What do Tommy Hilfiger, Warby Parker, and a viral TikTok account have in common? In this episode of Vox & Coin, Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek and Dave Valentine tackle the age-old business question: Can you fake it till you make it? From puffing up early client rosters to pulling all-nighters for projects they had no idea how to complete, Jake and Dave share raw stories of when they stretched the truth—and how it shaped their businesses. They also break down:
Plus: Lessons from Elon Musk, Gary Vee, and even taco trucks on when to project bigger than you are—and when to just own your size. 🎯 Whether you’re a founder, marketer, or side-hustler with big dreams, this episode unpacks the psychology, strategy, and pitfalls of “faking it” on your way to the top. 🔔 Subscribe for more marketing hot takes, business breakdowns, and legendary brand stories. 📣 Connect with us: Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek on TikTok: @jakethewizard Dave Valentine: @realdeval on TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, and more. 📡 Also check out our other shows: Unicorn Campaigns – Real success stories from real brands The Last Drop – Creative business strategy meets barstool banter | |||
| Vox & Coin: Your Logo is Not Your Brand | 23 Jul 2025 | 00:37:27 | |
Ever wondered why some brands are unforgettable while others fade into obscurity? In this episode of Vox & Coin, Dave Valentine and Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek dive deep into the power of branding—what makes it work, why it fails, and how even the boldest rebrands (looking at you, HBO Max) can sometimes backfire. From Mr. Rogers’ sweaters to Dave Grohl lookalike contests, Walter Cronkite prank calls, and the timeless lessons of The Beatles, we cover why brand consistency matters—and how evolving without losing your core identity is one of the hardest business challenges out there. We break down:
If you’re a founder, entrepreneur, or marketing leader, this episode is packed with practical insights and fun stories that’ll change how you think about your brand. Subscribe for more Vox & Coin episodes – where business, marketing, and culture collide with humor and real-world experience. Follow us:
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| The Last Drop: The Soundry - Music Retail, Restaurant, & Venue | 21 Jul 2025 | 00:55:19 | |
Welcome to another episode of The Last Drop – where business ideas flow as smoothly as the drinks we pour! 🍹 In this episode, Jake and Dave are joined by special guest Phil to create and tear apart a bold new concept: “The Soundry” – a multi-location boutique music store fused with a lounge, bar, and live music venue. From gear testing in private recording booths to live performances where the instruments on stage go on sale (at a discount!), we’re building a hybrid business that reinvents the music retail experience. Along the way, we dive into:
Of course, no episode of The Last Drop is complete without drinks! This week, we’re sipping on Kuleana Rum, an all-organic Hawaiian sugarcane rum that’s smooth enough to enjoy straight – but perfect for mixing, too. If you love big ideas, creative business building, and a good pour, you’ll want to stay until the end. Cheers, and don’t forget to subscribe! 👉 Follow Vox & Coin Network for more shows like this: https://www.youtube.com/@VoxandCoin 👉 Try Kuleana Rum: https://kuleanarum.com/ | |||
| Unicorn Campaign: Blanka with Adam Chuntz | 18 Jul 2025 | 00:16:01 | |
In this episode of Unicorn Campaigns, Dave sits down with Adam, the founder of Blanka, a game-changing platform that empowers anyone to launch or scale a beauty product line with ease, zero minimums, and minimal risk. From premium North American-made products to seamless fulfillment, Blanka merges the power of high-quality private labeling with the efficiency of dropshipping—helping creators, influencers, and businesses bring their brand visions to life. Adam shares the journey behind Blanka’s success, revealing how the team built a product-led growth strategy fueled by SEO, discoverability, and strategic partnerships with platforms like Shopify and Wix. He also dives into the psychology of cosmetics during economic downturns, explaining the “Lipstick Index” and how beauty products remain resilient and recession-proof. Listeners will discover:
Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or an established brand seeking innovative ways to expand, this episode is packed with inspiration and actionable takeaways. Check out Blanka: blanka.co Follow Blanka on socials: @blankabrand 👉 Hit subscribe, drop a comment, and don’t forget to check out our other shows. 📲 Follow Jake (@thewizardmarketing) and Dave (@realdeval) on all the socials. | |||
| Vox & Coin: Marketing Controversial Products with Curiosity | 16 Jul 2025 | 00:43:08 | |
In this candid, hilarious, and thought-provoking episode, Jake and Dave crack open one of their wildest client stories yet about marketing products—yes, it involves adult diapers... for very consenting adults. 😳 When a staff member quit over the campaign and awkward conversations abounded, it sparked a bigger question every marketer, agency, and brand rep eventually faces: Can you ethically and effectively market a product you don’t personally agree with—or would never use yourself? Along the way, we explore: The surprising reality of niche consumer communities Whether being outside the audience makes you a better marketer Stories from Viagra-Cialis infused honey, political campaigns, and furry fandoms The tension between stereotyping vs. nuanced marketing What makes a brand truly rebellious (Liquid Death, Wendy’s Twitter, and more) How to market to the heretics within your audience This episode is a masterclass in uncomfortable truths, bold branding, and the messy magic of connecting with real humans—even when things get weird. 💬 If you’ve ever wrestled with a questionable product or debated your brand’s moral line, this one’s for you. 👉 Hit subscribe, drop a comment, and don’t forget to check out our other shows: 🦄 Unicorn Campaigns – Deep dives into wildly successful marketing strategies 🍸 The Last Drop – Building fake businesses with real marketing strategies before finishing our drinks 📲 Follow Jake (@thewizardmarketing) and Dave (@realdeval) on all the socials. | |||
| The Last Drop: aWear - Emotionally Intelligent Jewelry Brand | 14 Jul 2025 | 00:42:36 | |
In this episode of The Last Drop, Jake Tlapek and Dave Valentine kick things off with bloopers and bevs—this time, sipping on Deschutes Tropical Fresh IPA—before diving deep into their latest business invention: AWEAR, an emotionally intelligent jewelry line that tracks your mood and connects you with your social circle based on emotional syncing. This isn't just a wearable. It’s a fully imagined social wellness platform that starts with mood-tracking rings and necklaces and ends with real-time emotional connectivity, privacy-protected passive listening, and friend alerts when someone in your circle needs a check-in—or a celebration. They explore:
It’s a wild ride of tech, empathy, and business smarts—so grab a drink, wear your feelings on your wrist, and don’t miss this one. 🎧 The Last Drop is part of the Vox & Coin Media Network. Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you get your fix. Follow Jake (@thewizardmarketing) and Dave (@RealDVal) for more. | |||
| Unicorn Campaign: Our Culture Brewing with Shakeel Radford | 11 Jul 2025 | 00:31:42 | |
In this flavorful episode, we crack open a cold one with Shakeel Radford, co-founder of Our Culture Brewing, to explore how craft beer can be more than a beverage—it can be a vessel for culture, community, and authentic storytelling. Shakeel walks us through the journey of Our Culture Brewing’s partnership with Creature Comforts and how their residency program led to a third stunning can release—crafted with purpose, not just design. We talk shop about direct-to-can printing, launching their largest 80-barrel batch, and the challenges of growing a brand that honors West African traditions with ingredients like fonio while standing out in an industry that’s shrinking. From garage brews and competitive taste tests between co-founders, to distributing across 103+ retail locations in Georgia and beyond, Shakeel reveals what it takes to build a Black-owned brewery grounded in intentionality, representation, and high-quality beer. We also dive into the deep work of market research, flavor curation, and why Our Culture is committed to elevating others through education, grants, and transparency. This episode is a must-listen if you care about authentic brand positioning, crafting culture, or just want to hear how four friends are changing the face of brewing—one pour at a time. Highlights include: The origin story rooted in friendship and community. How farm-to-glass partnerships bring intentionality to every batch. The blueprint for scaling through collaboration (not just capital). The emotional weight of creating a safe space for underrepresented beer lovers. Why their first solo-branded product may reshape the Southeast craft beer scene. Grab your glass—this is a toast to change, craft, and culture. 🍻 | |||
| Vox & Coin: Turn a Branding Mistake Into a Viral Win | 09 Jul 2025 | 00:52:03 | |
What do a blank email, a shame bell, and a ruined Disney vacation have in common? In this episode of Vox & Coin, Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek and Dave Valentine dive deep into how brands big and small can bounce back from PR blunders, bad reviews, and full-blown corporate misfires—and even come out stronger. Jake shares the hilarious story of sending a blank email to 7,000 people… and how it turned into a lead-generating conference masterstroke. The duo also breaks down: Why mistakes are inevitable (especially when you're moving fast) What separates brands that recover from those that crumble How Disney turned a poop-filled disaster into lifelong brand loyalty How Tylenol’s 1982 crisis management still sets the gold standard Why bad reviews hurt more than good ones help—and how to respond when a rando drags your name in the comments Plus: The power of sincere apology, how delight turns into loyalty, and the psychology behind why we forgive brands that care. 🎯 Whether you're a founder, marketer, or customer service lead, this episode is a playbook for turning your next screw-up into a story worth sharing. 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for more marketing stories, hot takes, and unicorn campaign breakdowns. 📣 Connect with us: Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek on TikTok: @jakethewizard Dave Valentine: @realdeval on TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, and more. 📡 Also check out our other shows: Unicorn Campaigns – Real success stories from real brands The Last Drop – Creative business strategy meets barstool banter #marketingpodcast #brandstrategy #crisisPR #customerexperience #VoxAndCoin #businessgrowth #contentmarketing #marketingmistakes #podcastclips | |||
| The Last Drop: Refynr - AI Tech Stack Audit Tool for B2B | 07 Jul 2025 | 00:46:06 | |
Welcome back to The Last Drop – where the drinks are strong, the ideas are stronger, and we take fake businesses way too far 🍸 This week, Jake and Dave crack open a bottle of Me Familia Flores Tequila Reposado Cristalino (with a sneaky bonus shot in the cap) and dream up one of our favorite B2B SaaS ideas yet: Refiner. 👉 Refiner is an AI-powered tool that analyzes how your team actually uses your software — identifying underused tools, time-wasting features, and efficiency black holes — and turns that data into cost-saving, productivity-boosting insights. It’s like CRO for your internal tech stack. But we don’t stop there. We dive into: How to build a product that sells itself (especially to CFOs) Why screen recording might beat API integrations The sneaky way to sell your data back to the SaaS platforms themselves The exit play (hello, Microsoft?) And why this product could evolve into a whole damn software ecosystem Oh, and we definitely pitch turning it into an AI agent training company while we’re at it. Because of course we do. 🍹 Come for the tequila, stay for the tech dreams. 🥃 Hit play, finish your glass, and if you build Refiner, we want our cut. 🎧 Don’t miss an episode — we drop every M/W/F on the Vox & Coin Network. 📲 Subscribe for more fake business brilliance. 💬 Tried the tequila? Built the SaaS? Let us know in the comments. 🎙 Follow us: Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek → @thewizardmarketing everywhere Dave Valentine → @realdeval (Twitter, TikTok, Insta) | LinkedIn: Dave Valentine 👀 Find more of our shows at [Vox & Coin Media Network] #TheLastDrop #B2BSaaS #StartupIdeas #TechStack #Efficiency #AItools #FakeBusinessRealVibes #TequilaAndTech | |||
| Unicorn Campaign: Sharefront with Yaron Cohen | 04 Jul 2025 | 00:19:28 | |
What if retail wasn’t just about selling products—but about creating community? In this episode of Unicorn Campaigns, we sit down with the visionary behind ShareFront, a revolutionary co-retail platform that’s redefining how brands show up IRL. Our guest went from leasing stores in NYC to building curated retail ecosystems—called The Den—where like-minded but non-competing brands thrive under one roof. From international DTC brands struggling to break into U.S. retail to creatives who’ve never run a storefront, ShareFront offers a fully managed, low-risk launchpad that delivers more than just foot traffic—it delivers synergy. You’ll hear:
Plus, discover what’s next as ShareFront explores wellness-based locations, dating app activations, and other unexpected verticals. 🔗 Learn more: thesharefront.com 📸 Instagram: @sharefront | @theden If you’re a brand ready to build community and drive sales, this episode will change how you think about physical retail. | |||
| Vox & Coin: FIFA Club World Cup? More like FUBAR. | 02 Jul 2025 | 00:50:55 | |
So... you’ve got the best football (yes, soccer) clubs in the world playing on U.S. soil, with a $100M prize on the line and somehow the stadiums are half empty. What gives? In this episode of Vox and Coin, Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek and Dave “Definitely-Not-in-Red” Valentine break down the marketing missteps, media rights mayhem, and why Gen Z is choosing YouTube over UEFA. We talk Club World Cup confusion, live sports strategy, streaming platform struggles, and what the Savannah Bananas can teach FIFA about filling seats and capturing hearts. 👕 Spoiler: merch and spectacle matter more than you think. 💡 Topics include:
🎧 Listen for fun. Stay for the breakdown of how to actually build buzz, sell tickets, and make people care. 👇 Drop a comment and tell us: would you go see a $100M match in your city? Or are you streaming something else entirely? 🔔 Subscribe to Vox and Coin for more spicy takes on marketing, media, and making magic out of missed opportunities. 📱 Follow us everywhere: @thewizard.marketing | @realdeval #FIFAClubWorldCup #SportsMarketing #VoxAndCoin #SavannahBananas #StreamingWars #SoccerInUSA #MarketingFail #ContentStrategy #BlueyIsKing | |||
| Unicorn Campaign: OLPRO with Daniel Walton | 15 Aug 2025 | 00:21:14 | |
What do melamine plates, rainy camping trips, and a stubborn streak have in common? In this episode of Unicorn Campaigns, Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek sits down with OLPRO founder Daniel Walton to uncover how he went from doodling rejected product ideas in corporate meetings to building one of the UK’s most recognizable camping brands. Daniel shares the bold leap from retail to direct-to-consumer e-commerce—starting with no money, no safety net, and a deep love for the outdoors. The two dig into:
🎯 Whether you’re an e-commerce founder, outdoor enthusiast, or just someone chasing a bold idea, this episode is packed with inspiration, practical strategy, and proof that big brands can start with small, scrappy moves. 🔔 Subscribe for more real-world brand stories, growth strategies, and marketing insights that take campaigns from spark to unicorn status. 📣 Connect with us: Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek on TikTok: @jakethewizard Daniel Walton: OLPROShop.com + @OLPRO on Instagram and Facebook | |||
| The Last Drop: Honeydo - Crowdsourced Handyman App | 30 Jun 2025 | 00:53:03 | |
What do last-minute home repairs, labor shortages, and carbon-negative rum have in common? Find out on this episode of The Last Drop, where Jake and Dave build Honeydo — an Uber-style app for handyman services that promises to demolish the honey-do list once and for all. While sipping Kuleana Rum (a sustainable, organic spirit made from freshly harvested Hawaiian sugarcane), they map out every corner of this billion-dollar idea, from hiring 1099 contractors to disrupting entire industries with on-demand services. Inside the episode: 🔧 Solving real-world headaches with a handyman app 📱 App UX and logistics (inspired by Uber, Turo, and DoorDash) 🔍 Skill-tagging, verified toolsets & project-specific reviews 💰 Monetization via job fees, credit card processing, and project financing 🧠 How to scale with VCs, pitch decks, and A-player teams 🔥 Why landscapers, plumbers, and pest control companies might hate this app Whether you’re a VC junkie, SaaS builder, frustrated homeowner, or just love watching wild ideas get the full brand + business treatment, this one’s got it all — right down to the last drop. 🎙️ Subscribe to The Last Drop and discover what happens when creativity meets commerce over a cold drink. Got a business idea worth building? Drop it in the comments — we might just make it real. #TheLastDrop #StartupPodcast #HoneydewApp #HandymanApp #BusinessIdeas #OnDemandServices #MarketplaceModel #VentureCapital #UberForContractors #KuleanaRum #BrandBuilding #TechStartup #CreativeEntrepreneur | |||
| Unicorn Campaign: Hass Avocado with Gina Widjaja | 27 Jun 2025 | 00:23:32 | |
In this episode of Unicorn Campaigns, host Dave Valentine sits down with Gina Widjaja, the marketing force behind the Love One Today campaign targeting health professionals. Discover how she led a movement rooted in science—positioning avocados as a nutritious, evidence-based choice and elevating their place in conversations between doctors, dietitians, and patients. 🥑 In this episode, you’ll learn:
🎯 Whether you’re in CPG, produce marketing, or trying to create brand affinity from scratch, Gina’s insights will reshape how you think about growth, perception, and purpose-driven media. Keywords for discovery: Gina Widjaja, Hass Avocado Board, food & beverage branding, avocado campaign, CPG strategy, category marketing, produce industry campaigns, cultural branding, Unicorn Campaigns podcast, emotional advertising, brand storytelling, demand generation 📲 Learn more about the Love One Today campaign at https://loveonetoday.com/ and follow Gina’s work redefining how categories create culture. 🎧 Subscribe to Unicorn Campaigns for more behind-the-scenes stories of bold marketing moves that made brands unforgettable. | |||
| Vox & Coin: Is AI Content in Marketing Ethical? | 26 Jun 2025 | 00:39:44 | |
What happens when a Cannes Lions-winning ad is accused of using AI to fabricate a CNN broadcast? In this episode, Jake "The Wizard" and Dave dive into the Whirlpool campaign scandal that has the marketing world buzzing. But that's just the beginning. We explore the broader implications of AI-generated content—where's the line between innovation and deception? From doctored testimonials and AI UGC to ethical AI regulations and whether AI might actually dumb itself down over time, this episode pulls no punches. 💡 Topics Covered:
⚡ Favorite Quote: "I want AI to do my laundry so I can do art—not the other way around." 🎧 Whether you're a marketer, business owner, or just a curious mind, this episode digs deep into how AI is transforming—and possibly distorting—the landscape of creativity, business, and humanity. 👇 Like, Comment, and Subscribe to join the conversation. 📢 Listen to more from the Vox & Coin Network, including:
📲 Follow Jake @TheWizardMarketing 📲 Follow Dave @RealDevil (TikTok, Instagram, LinkedIn) | |||
| The Last Drop: Vellum - Luxury Stationery | 23 Jun 2025 | 00:52:05 | |
What do fountain pens, forest gin, and a handcrafted desk aesthetic have in common? This week on The Last Drop, Jake and Dave uncork Vellum — a luxury analog goods brand built for writers, thinkers, and anyone tired of the digital grind. As they sip Freeland Spirits’ Forest Gin (a Portland-made dry gin with locally sourced botanicals), the duo pens an entire business plan around turning high-end pens, paper, and desk accessories into must-have objects of daily ritual and timeless elegance. Inside the episode: ✒️ Brand storytelling for luxury writing goods 📦 Packaging that feels like opening a poem 🪵 Sourcing challenges as a marketing advantage 🔁 Scarcity, heirlooms & one-of-a-kind product drops 📜 Can your brand be invitation-only… via handwritten letter? Whether you're a luxury brand enthusiast, design nerd, analog romantic, or just someone who loves watching wild business ideas come to life, this one’s for you — all the way down to the last drop. 🎙️ Subscribe to The Last Drop and discover what happens when creativity meets commerce over a cold drink. Got a wild business idea? Drop it in the comments — we might just build it next. #TheLastDrop #LuxuryBrand #AnalogLife #StationeryAddict #FountainPens #CreativeEntrepreneur #FreelandGin #BrandBuilding #MarketingPodcast #ProductDesign #BusinessIdeas #DeskGoals | |||
| Vox & Coin: Why Your SEO Traffic Is About to Tank | 13 Aug 2025 | 00:56:47 | |
What do a donut, an alligator, and a billion-dollar search engine have in common? SEO. In this episode of Vox & Coin, Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek and Dave Valentine unpack how AI, Google’s lawsuits, and a wave of seismic algorithm updates are transforming SEO—and what that means for brands in 2025. Jake breaks down the massive pre-AI shifts that changed SEO forever: from Google’s Helpful Content updates to the “spam purge” that tanked traffic for even well-established sites. Then, the duo dives into the AI revolution—how Google’s AI Overviews and soon-to-launch AI Mode are changing the click-through game, why “alligator” graphs have SEOs sweating, and which industries will feel the biggest hit. You’ll also learn:
Plus: Dave and Jake get real about the brands crushed by algorithm changes, why Bing conversions are secretly higher, and how to “future-proof” your visibility in a world where search is fragmenting faster than ever. 🎯 Whether you’re a founder, marketer, or SEO pro, this episode is your blueprint for staying visible—and profitable—through the biggest shake-up in search history. 🔔 Subscribe for more marketing deep dives, hot takes, and behind-the-scenes strategy breakdowns. 📣 Connect with us: Jake “The Wizard” Tlapek on TikTok: @jakethewizard Dave Valentine: @realdeval on TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, and more. 📡 Also check out our other shows: Unicorn Campaigns – Real success stories from real brands The Last Drop – Creative business strategy meets barstool banter | |||
| Unicorn Campaign: Kuleana Rum Works with Steve Jefferson | 08 Aug 2025 | 00:39:33 | |
In this episode of Unicorn Campaigns, we dive deep with Steve, co-founder of Kuleana Rum Works, on how a sailing trip through the Caribbean turned into a mission to redefine what rum could be. We explore how a sip of agricole rum led Steve and his wife back to Hawaii to start a distillery rooted in heritage, excellence, and responsibility. Steve unpacks how hard choices lead to an easier life and how that principle shapes every decision at Kuleana, from farming heirloom sugarcane to creating additive-free spirits. We discuss:
Whether you’re a founder, a marketer, or a lover of craft spirits, this episode will expand your thinking on business, branding, and doing good while doing well. 🌺 Visit: kuleanarum.com 📍 Distillery & farm: Big Island, Hawaii 🍹 Bar & restaurant: Kuleana Rum Shack | |||
| Vox & Coin: Stop Trying to Be Apple | 06 Aug 2025 | 00:50:23 | |
In this episode, Jake and Dave sound off on one of the most frustrating trends in branding: everyone trying to look, feel, and market like Apple. From solar companies with identical sun logos to jewelry brands mimicking Silicon Valley minimalism, it’s time for a wake-up call: your brand isn’t standing out; it’s disappearing. They break down what real brand differentiation looks like, how to play to your strengths (instead of chasing someone else’s), and why features, price, and experience are the only levers that matter—until your brand actually has power. 💡 Topics include:
Whether you're at $500K or $50M and aiming to scale, this episode is packed with hot takes, strategy, and the reminder that brand isn’t just what you say. It’s how you behave, look, and show up every day. 👉 Subscribe for more irreverent takes and real insights on growing brands that actually matter. | |||
| The Last Drop: BroDega - Third Place Sandwiches & Companionship | 04 Aug 2025 | 00:42:20 | |
In this episode of The Last Drop, your host Jake "The Wizard" Tlapek is joined by a longtime friend, colleague, and first-time guest Josh Joseph. Together, they dive headfirst into the brilliant madness that is The BroDega—a local sandwich shop concept that combines high-quality food with low-pressure, stylized micro-chat therapy sessions. It's not quite a tavern, not quite a café, but something brand new that’s part lounge, part community hub, and all about the vibe. They explore:
Of course, all of this is washed down with a taste test and review of Glen Ry’s 12-Year Aged Japanese Mizunara Oak Cask-Finished Scotch (Jake) and a hot plug for Raven’s Brew Deadman’s Reach Coffee (Josh). Whether you're a business dreamer, an introvert in need of connection, or just in it for the sandwich ideas, this episode is packed to the crust with insights, laughs, and unexpected takes. As always, we run it down to the last drop. Guest Links 🧠 Connect with Josh Joseph on LinkedIn More From The Wizard 🎙️ Follow The Last Drop and check out our other shows on the Vox & Coin Network:
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| Unicorn Campaign: Clementine's Creamery with Jim Harper | 01 Aug 2025 | 00:25:27 | |
What happens when a micro creamery with punk rock roots turns its 10-year anniversary into a full-blown cultural campaign? In this episode of Unicorn Campaigns, host Jake Tlapek sits down with Jim Harper, Chief Marketing Officer of Clementine’s Ice Cream, to unpack one of the most unforgettable brand activations you’ve never heard of. From a rock hitting his window at the top of the episode to tales of gooey butter cake and vinyl records, Jim shares how Clementine’s has scaled from a single location to a network of micro creameries while maintaining their hand-crafted identity. But the real highlight? Their anniversary campaign, “Tasty Tracks on Wax”—a vinyl record featuring 12 original songs about ice cream, created by St. Louis artists and distributed to customers. The result was less about direct ROI and more about becoming part of people’s lives—and their living rooms. Jake and Jim also explore:
If you’re a brand builder, product marketer, or just want to geek out about ice cream and integrated campaigns that break the mold, this episode is your jam. 🔗 Mentioned:
🎙️ Subscribe to Unicorn Campaigns on your favorite podcast app, and check out other shows on the Vox & Coin Media Network. | |||
| Vox & Coin: Don't Cut Corners On Your Branding | 01 Aug 2025 | 01:02:11 | |
In this episode, we dive deep into the art and science of marketing messaging and branding. Join us as we explore: The power of “depositioning” and how clever messaging can set your brand apart. Real-world examples from Wendy’s, Taco Bell, Burger King, and more The psychology behind memorable ad campaigns and why some taglines stick for decades. How to craft messaging that resonates with your audience and drives results The importance of testing, iteration, and finding your unique voice in a crowded market. Hilarious stories, industry insights, and practical tips for business owners, marketers, and creatives. Whether you’re a small business owner, a marketing professional, or just love great advertising, this episode is packed with actionable advice and entertaining banter. 👍 If you enjoy the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and leave a comment! 🔔 Follow us on Twitter, TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn for more content and updates. Find Jake at @TheWizardMarketing Connect with Dave at @realDval. Thanks for watching! | |||
| Unicorn Campaign: Peter's Cleaners with Vicky Whiter & Clare Gill | 25 Jul 2025 | 00:23:32 | |
What happens when a traditional, slow-moving industry gets a bold shake-up? In this episode of Unicorn Campaigns, we talk with Vicki and Claire from Peter’s Cleaners—the UK’s first dry cleaner to combine in-shop services with innovative 24/7 drop-off and pick-up pods. Vicki shares her journey of leaving city life in 2016 to take over a small-town dry cleaner and transform it into a modern, tech-forward brand. From discovering that the dry cleaning industry was stuck in outdated habits to pioneering a pod-based system (inspired by Costa Express coffee machines), Vicki’s vision brought convenience, scalability, and fresh energy to a decades-old business model. Claire walks us through their cheeky, conversation-starting marketing campaigns—featuring memorable lines like “Drop Your Trousers” and “Talk Dirty to Me”—that cut through the noise and made the local community not just customers, but investors. We dive into how they successfully raised funds through crowdfunding, leveraging a combination of hyper-local trust, brand refresh, and paid ads to bring their pods to life. You’ll hear: The story behind their 24/7 dry cleaning pods and the challenges of introducing a new model to a traditional market. How humor and clever headlines drove adoption in an industry not known for creativity. The inside scoop on their crowdfunding campaign, from brand refresh to investor engagement. Lessons learned from navigating COVID-era setbacks and staying resilient while 40% of their competitors closed shop. This episode is packed with inspiration for any entrepreneur looking to modernize a traditional business while building deep community connections. Learn more about Peter’s Cleaners https://peterscleaners.co.uk/
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