Show notes
What if you could build a powerful brand not by chasing big media hits, but by consistently lighting “a lot of little fires”?Karen Leland, branding and marketing strategist, author, and CEO of Sterling Marketing Group, is Kevin St. Clergy’s guest this week. With over 15 years of guiding Fortune 500 companies and entrepreneurs, her work bridges the gap between business systems and authentic brand presence.Together, they unpack how branding has shifted from quick sprints to enduring marathons, where targeted messaging, ongoing self-audit, and overcoming blind spots – not drunk marketing or ego – are key to staying relevant and impactful.In this episode, Kevin and Karen will discuss:(00:00) Introduction(03:43) Journey to branding and marketing(08:37) Starting many fires persistently(10:58) Targeted marketing beats broad exposure(15:10) Personal branding beyond the self(19:09) Stop reactive drunk marketing(22:20) Thought leadership requires substance(25:56) Revitalizing a construction brand(28:02) Navigating branding challenges today(30:46) Why the problem is your culture(37:47) Key branding and marketing insightsKaren Leland is president of Sterling Consulting Group, a branding and customer service expert with over 25 years of experience helping leaders and teams excel. She’s the Brand Mapping Strategy, and a respected keynote speaker and consultant on business communication and service culture.Connect with Karen:Karen’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karentiberleland/Sterling Consulting Group: https://sterlingmarketinggroup.com/Resources Mentioned:The Brand Mapping Strategy by Karen Leland: https://www.amazon.com/dp/159918589XJoel Barker’s Paradigm Paralysis: https://jeffshore.com/2010/01/paradigm-paralysis/From Stuck to Breakthrough:Ready to break free from what’s holding you back? Join the From Stuck to Breakthrough challenge.This FREE, five-day live experience will help you uncover hidden solutions to your toughest challenges—whether it’s in your business, health, wealth, or relationships.Sign up today at blindblaming.com.
