Agency Bytes

Ep 085 – Dia Bondi – How to Ask for More

Featuring: Dia Bondi

In Episode 085 of Agency Bytes, I had the privilege of sitting down with Dia Bondi, a communications expert and author of Ask Like an Auctioneer. Dia shares her fascinating journey from the world of auctioneering to becoming a sought-after communication coach.

We dive deep into the art of asking effectively in high-stakes situations, exploring how to embrace rejection, craft impactful asks, and understand the value behind what you're offering. Dia introduces her powerful framework for building and delivering asks with confidence and clarity.

This episode is packed with insights on training your mindset to recognize what you truly want, articulate it boldly, and go after it fearlessly. Dia inspires us to make our dreams known and actively chase our goals with intention and determination.

If you’ve ever struggled with asking for what you deserve, this conversation is one you don’t want to miss!

Key Takeaways

• Asking like an auctioneer involves maximizing potential asks.
• Rejection should be seen as a sign of success, not failure.
• Design your asks based on what you truly want, not what you think you can get.
• Understanding the perceived value is crucial in negotiations.
• The offer inside the ask should benefit both parties involved.
• Mindset plays a significant role in how we approach asking for what we want.
• It's important to communicate your dreams to those around you.
• Asking for more can lead to greater outcomes than anticipated.
• The process of auctioneering provides valuable insights into effective communication.
• Honesty and generosity should guide your asks, not manipulation.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Asking Like an Auctioneer
05:16 The Connection Between Asking and Auctioneering
10:28 Mindset: Embracing Rejection
15:30 Designing Your Ask
20:57 The Offer Inside the Ask
27:03 Final Thoughts and Rapid Fire Questions

Dia Bondi is a Communications Catalyst, Speaker, and Author of Ask Like an Auctioneer: How to Ask for More and Get It. She coaches VC-backed founders, executives, and ambitious professionals to speak powerfully when the stakes are high. She helped Rio de Janeiro win the right to host the 2016 Summer Olympics and has helped countless leaders secure hundreds of millions in decisions and resources. A hobbyist fundraising auctioneer, Dia’s TEDx Talk was selected as a TED Editors’ Pick, showcasing how to make the kinds of asks that can change everything.

 

Learn more about Dia and her services on her website.

Ep 084 - Jacquelyn Laufer & David Yassky, Driver Digital – Fashionable Agency Culture

Featuring: Jacquelyn Laufer & David Yassky, Driver Digital

In this episode of Agency Bites, I had the pleasure of sitting down with David Yasky and Jacqueline Laufer, the dynamic duo behind Driver Digital. Let me tell you, their story of building a thriving agency in the fashion and e-commerce space is nothing short of inspiring!

We dove deep into the secret sauce of their partnership, and it's all about knowing your strengths and playing to them. David and Jacqueline shared some golden nuggets on how they've defined their roles and fostered a culture that keeps their team excited to come to work every day. They've cracked the code on maintaining joy in the workplace!

We also got into the nitty-gritty of building those long-lasting client relationships that are the lifeblood of any agency. And if you're looking to level up your leadership game, you won't want to miss their thoughts on effective leadership and the power of mentorship.

If you're ready for a dose of inspiration, practical wisdom, and maybe a laugh or two, tune in to this episode. Trust me, you won't regret it!

Key Takeaways

• Both David and Jacqueline ran their own agencies before partnering.
• Driver Digital specializes in fashion, beauty, and e-commerce.
• Defining roles in a partnership is crucial for efficiency.
• Fostering a positive culture is essential for team morale.
• Maintaining joy in the workplace enhances productivity.
• Building lasting relationships with clients leads to success.
• Effective leadership involves immediate feedback and open communication.
• Mentorship plays a vital role in personal and professional growth.
• Success is attributed to strong relationships and quality work.
• Saying no to projects that aren't a good fit is empowering.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Driver Digital
01:01 The Journey to Partnership
02:58 Niche Focus in Fashion and E-commerce
06:16 Defining Roles in the Agency
10:26 Fostering a Positive Agency Culture
15:41 Maintaining Joy in the Workplace
19:31 Building Lasting Client Relationships
22:01 Leadership Styles and Team Management
25:04 The Importance of Mentorship
29:03 Success Through Relationships
33:02 Rapid Fire Questions and Key Takeaways

David Yassky is a creative leader and brand developer with over eighteen years of dynamic experience combining the worlds of editorial, fashion, retail and ecommerce. His editorial roots, entrepreneurial acumen, and strong industry relationships make him a unique asset that artfully straddles the creative and business worlds. David began his career as a Fashion Editor at Women’s Wear Daily and W Magazine before going on to consult for a variety of iconic brands including Tory Burch, Anthropologie, and Gap. David was the co-founder and President of The Aisle New York, a progressive digital startup in the bridal ecommerce space, and later he served as Fashion and Editorial Director of the large American ecommerce site, IDEELI. He is the founder and creative director of Driver Creative & Driver Digital – helping transform iconic brands including Anne Klein, Bergdorf Goodman, and Joseph Abboud.

Jacquelyn Laufer, is an E-Commerce, Digital Marketing, Solutions, and Project Management consultant with over 14 years of experience specializing in the luxury fashion, beauty, and travel industries. Having launched Henri Bendel’s first ecommerce website, Bond No. 9’s second, and built online experiences with Estee Lauder Companies, Coty, Edit New York and Blissworld, Jacquelyn is known for helping companies scale their business. Most notably, Jacquelyn founded e-commerce consulting and project management firm Rebuild Girl, which led the re-platforms for brands such as L’Objet, Anne Klein, Joseph Abboud, Creed Boutique, Hanky Panky, and more. Jacquelyn enjoys building consensus, effectively motivating and helping teams hit their mark, defining digital solutions and integrations to help brands grow, and most importantly hanging out with her husband and rescue dog.

 

Contact Jacquelyn and David on their website, Instagram, or LinkedIn.

Ep 083 – Jody Sutter, The Sutter Company – Build, Win, Scale

Featuring: Jody Sutter, The Sutter Company

In Episode 083, I had the pleasure of chatting with Jody Sutter, owner of Sutter Company, about her journey in business development and our shared mission of supporting small marketing agencies with their sales and marketing efforts. Jody introduces her Build Win Scale System—a practical, step-by-step approach to help agencies identify their ideal clients, improve messaging, and strengthen their teams for business growth.

Throughout our conversation, Jody shares why it's crucial for agencies to focus on sales and marketing fundamentals, like pinpointing the right clients and solving their unique challenges. We also explore how to tackle seasonality in the agency world and the power of prioritizing one thing at a time for sustainable success. Don’t miss this insightful episode!

Key Takeaways

• Focus on the basics of sales and marketing, such as identifying your ideal client and solving their problems.
• Prioritize and focus on one thing at a time to make progress.
• Use the dips in business to work on strategic projects and improve your agency.
• Consider integrating AI tools to streamline processes and improve efficiency.
• Reflect on the value you provide to your clients and turn it into a compelling message.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
06:32 The BuildWin Scale System
12:58 Challenges and Pitfalls in Agency Business Development
17:41 Managing Seasonality in the Agency Business
20:12 Prioritization and Focus
25:15 Integrating AI in Agency Operations
31:05 Turning Value into a Compelling Message
32:40 Closing Remarks

Jody is the owner of The Sutter Company, a business development coaching and advisory firm, and the inventor of the BUILD WIN SCALETM system, a step-by-step process designed to help leaders of small marketing agencies identify and activate their natural talents for sales and marketing, leading to a sustainable approach to winning new business.

Contact Jody on her website.

Ep 082 – Chris Martinez, Bloom Partners – Operational Underdogs

Featuring: Chris Martinez, Bloom Partners

In episode 082, I sit down with Chris Martinez, CEO and founder of Bloom Partners, who shares his journey from building a successful marketing agency to transitioning into management consulting. Chris dives into the importance of data-driven strategies and setting clear KPIs for each department, emphasizing how these metrics fuel growth. We discuss the impact of AI on the industry, and Chris encourages agency owners to embrace the new possibilities it brings. He also talks about the critical role of personal fulfillment in business success—how finding joy in all areas of life directly boosts both individual and company performance.

Key Takeaways

• Set clear KPIs for each department in your agency and track them using simple tools like Google Sheets.
• Embrace AI and leverage its capabilities to improve efficiency and productivity in your agency.
• Focus on personal fulfillment in physical health, mental health, relationships, and business to achieve overall success.
• The business is a reflection of you, so ensure that other areas of your life are in balance for optimal performance.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
03:08 Building a Marketing Agency and Transitioning to Management Consulting
05:54 Data-Driven Strategies and Clear KPIs
09:00 Embracing AI in the Agency Industry
12:56 The Importance of Personal Fulfillment in Business

Chris Martinez, CEO and Founder of BLOOMAgency.io, has turned his passion for helping underdogs into a thriving business, growing his company from zero to millions in revenue. Recognized with a 2021 Stevie Award for Minority-Owned Business of the Year, Chris also hosts the popular podcast *Operation Agency Freedom*. He is the author of four books, including the Amazon Bestseller *It’s Not JUST A Website*, and his latest release, *Facts Not Feelings*, offers insights on scaling a marketing agency with data-driven strategies.

Contact Chris on his website, on Instagram, or learn about Agency Freedom Live.

Ep 081 – David C. Baker, Punctuation – Preparing to Sell Your Agency

Featuring: David C. Baker, Punctuation

In episode 081, I sit down with David C. Baker, a renowned consultant, author, and speaker in the advertising agency world. We explore David's journey from grad school to founding his consultancy, Punctuation, and later bringing his son into the business. David shares key traits that drive successful agencies—courage, discipline, strategic positioning, and effective team management. We discuss business resets, lead generation, and the science behind agency positioning, along with the advantages of running an agency with future acquisition in mind. Beyond business, David talks about his personal passions like motorcycling, woodworking, and photography. Tune in for valuable insights into managing and scaling a creative agency.

Key Takeaways

• Courage and discipline are key traits for agency leaders
• Positioning is crucial for agency success and requires testing and refinement
• Running an agency as if you're going to sell it can lead to better overall performance
• Woodworking, motorcycle racing, and photography are David's hobbies
• Stop things that no longer serve you and simplify your life

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
03:07 The Importance of Courage and Discipline in Agency Leadership
06:29 The Process of Positioning and Testing
11:17 Keys to Making an Agency Attractive for Sale
15:16 David's Hobbies: Woodworking, Motorcycle Racing, and Photography
18:20 Advice for Agency Owners: Stop and Simplify

David C. Baker is an author, speaker, and advisor to entrepreneurial creatives worldwide. He has written 6 books, advised 1,000+ firms, and keynoted conferences in 30+ countries. His work has been discussed in the Wall Street Journal, Fast Company, Forbes, USA Today, BusinessWeek, CBS News, Newsweek, AdWeek, and Inc. Magazine. He lives in Nashville, TN. His two most recent books are at http://www.expertise.is and https://www.tradecraft.is His work has also been featured in the NY Times, where he was recently referred to as “the expert’s expert”. He co-hosts the most listened-to podcast in the creative services field (2Bobs).

Contact David on his website, or LinkedIn, or learn about his MYOB Conference.

Ep 080 – Kevin Rapp, Ultra Friends – No Free Work

Featuring: Kevin Rapp, Ultra Friends

In episode 080, I had a great conversation with Kevin Rapp, co-founder and chief creative officer of Ultra Friends. We dive into the exploitation of creatives and the crucial role of valuing creativity in business. Kevin shares his journey from working in agencies and studios to going in-house at a fast-growing startup, where he learned to focus not just on the craft, but on delivering real value to the business.

We discuss why creatives should stop pitching for free and start advocating for the true worth of their work. Kevin’s key takeaway? Understand and confidently articulate the immense value that creativity brings to the table.

This episode is a must-listen for any creative professional looking to elevate their impact and take control of their worth in the business world!

Key Takeaways

• Creatives need to shift their focus from the craft alone to delivering value to the business.
• Pitching for free devalues creativity and sets an unhealthy dynamic in client relationships.
• Understanding and articulating the true value of creativity is crucial for success.
• Advocating for fair compensation and valuing creativity leads to better career opportunities and financial growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
03:30 Transitioning from Agency to In-House Startup
06:09 Shifting the Focus to Value and Business Impact
09:55 Starting Ultra Friends and Optimizing Creative Content
15:05 The Importance of Not Pitching for Free
20:59 The Devaluation of Creativity and Self-Worth
26:00 Setting the Tone and Advocating for Fair Compensation
31:53 Understanding and Articulating the True Value of Creativity

Kevin is the co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of the creative agency Ultra Friends. He's an accomplished creative leader with almost two decades of experience in the field. And he's built a mild reputation for himself by shouting into the internet void on Linkedin.

Contact Kevin on his website.

Ep 079 – Nicole Ayres, Jumpsuit – From Jumpsuit to Jumpboards

Featuring: Nicole Ayres, Jumpsuit

In episode 079, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nicole Ayres, founder of Jumpsuit and creator of Jumpboards. After leaving the big agency world to freelance, Nicole built her own thriving agency—Jumpsuit—with zero paid ads and zero employees. She has since developed Jumpboards, a revolutionary end-to-end solution for agencies that streamlines everything from discovery calls to project handoff.

Nicole shares how Jumpboards empowers freelancers to confidently pitch larger projects and helps agencies operationalize business development, scoping, budgeting, and resource allocation. At the heart of her success? A strong belief in her team and a culture of collaboration and empowerment.

This episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to scale their agency or improve operational efficiency. Don’t miss out on Nicole's inspiring story and the game-changing strategies she’s developed!

Key Takeaways

• Building an agency without paid ads or employees is possible by leveraging a network of trusted freelancers.
• Jumpboards is a technology that streamlines the agency process and allows freelancers to pitch larger projects.
• Trust in your team is crucial for agency success.
• Creating a culture of collaboration and empowerment leads to a more fulfilling and productive work environment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
08:21 Transitioning from Freelancer to Agency Owner
19:19 Introducing Jumpboards
27:31 The Future of Agencies and Freelancing
32:01 Personal Interests and Advice

Nicole Ayres left the big agency, freelanced (500k first year, built an agency with zero paid ads and zero employees that runs itself, now building technology to democratize it all.

Contact Nicole at Jumpsuit Agency or Jauntboards.

Ep 078 – Jhana Li, Spyglass Ops – Maximizing Team Performance

Featuring: Jhana Li, Spyglass Ops

In episode 078, Jhana Li, founder of Spyglass Ops, shares her inspiring journey from living van life to building her own successful operations consulting company. She talks about how she helps agency owners scale their businesses while regaining personal freedom by mastering the power of operations.

Jhana highlights how crucial operations are for growth and profitability, explaining how optimizing team performance, delegating tasks effectively, and implementing solid systems and processes allow founders to focus on high-value activities that drive real results. This episode is packed with practical insights for anyone looking to scale their agency while building a more efficient, sustainable business.

Key Takeaways

• Operations is crucial for scaling an agency and maximizing profitability.
• Optimizing team performance and implementing systems and processes are key to success.
• Founders should focus on high-value activities and delegate tasks to free up time.
• Raising the bar for success and setting higher standards can lead to team growth and success.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Background
03:04 The Importance of Operations in Scaling
08:23 Maximizing Team Performance
17:23 Raising the Bar for Success

Jhana Li, founder of Spyglass Ops. Jhana started as a COO for multiple startups - while living van life. After seeing countless founders stall out & trap themselves without the proper Operations, 3 years ago Jhana decided to start Spyglass Ops. Since then she has helped more than 100 businesses scale past 7 & 8-figures. Through Operations consulting, recruitment, and training, Spyglass Ops empowers founders to simultaneously scale their businesses while regaining their personal freedom.

Jhana Li started as a COO for multiple startups (while simultaneously traveling full-time in a converted van through N & S America). After seeing countless founders stall out & trap themselves without the proper Operations, 3 years ago Jhana decided to start her own company, Spyglass Ops. Since then she has helped 100+ businesses scale past 7 & 8-figures. Through Operations consulting, recruitment, and training, Spyglass Ops empowers founders to simultaneously scale their businesses while regaining their personal freedom.

Contact Jhana on their website, Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, and YouTube.