Episodios

  • 228. Business Therapy: Consulting Insights with Erica Escalante
    Aug 19 2025
    Ever dreamt of running your own cozy coffee shop but have no idea what actually goes on behind the counter? Erica Escalante has brewed up a life in the cafe world— from Starbucks barista to flipping struggling businesses into must-visit neighborhood spots. Join Michelle and Erica as they dive into what it really takes to lead a happy team, why employee drama is actually YOUR problem, and how to make your cafe a unique experience. If you’re ready for an honest look at the world of small business ownership, this is the conversation you can’t miss. Erica Escalante is a nationally respected cafe and bakery consultant, known for her honest, strategic, and heart-centered approach to small business operations. With nearly two decades in the specialty coffee industry—including almost 10 years owning and operating cafes and a commissary kitchen—she now dedicates her work to helping independent cafe owners across the country build profitable, sustainable, and people-centered businesses. She’s the founder of the Reina Cafe Accelerator, a 24-week mentorship program for cafe owners, and a frequent speaker at industry events like Coffee Fest and SCA Expo. Erica lives in Los Angeles, is a proud mom of two, and is on a mission to reshape the coffee industry for the better—one shop at a time. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Addressing team leadership concernsNavigating workforce challenges todayOvercoming fear in business leadershipWhy hiring an advisor benefits you as a business ownerThe value of an outside eyePatience and progress over timeThe financial realities of running a cafeStanding out: differentiation and storytellingStrategic perception in businessBrand strategy: value vs. volumeTransitioning from cafe owner to consultant ---------------------- RESOURCES: Partner with MKW Creative Co. on your rebrand!Episode 175: Offboarding Checklist for Brand DesignersEpisode 154: Streamline Your Design Process with Canva with Juls Christie-Clark ----------------------- Guest info: To learn more about Erica and her distinct style, follow her on Instagram @Escalante_Erica, on Facebook @Erica Escalante or visit her website, EricaEscalante.com. ----------------------- Boring packaging? Forgettable branding? Sticker Giant fixes that with custom stickers and labels designed to make your brand stick—literally. Use code KMA25 at stickergiant.com for 25% off your first order. ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook GroupInstagramTik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma. ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard
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    50 m
  • 227. Branding File Management Made Simple
    Aug 12 2025
    Ever feel like your branding assets are scattered everywhere and you’re one missing file away from chaos? Let Michelle show you how to keep your digital pantry stocked and your creative kitchen ready for action. Discover the difference between storing assets on Canva vs. Google Drive and get practical tips for organizing your logos, colors, fonts, and more without losing your brand consistency. Whether you’re one of our branding clients or just getting your brand off the ground, this 101 on file handoff, smart storage, and designer-approved digital hygiene is the recipe you need to keep your files organized. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: The different folders you can expect with a MKW Creative Co. branding projectGoogle Drive: the bunker of branding assetsCanva: your branding kitchenDifferences between file typesWorking between Google Drive and CanvaSetting up your Canva brand kitPracticing good Canva hygieneMaintaining brand consistency across platformsDatabases and archiving ---------------------- RESOURCES: Partner with MKW Creative Co. on your rebrand!Episode 175: Offboarding Checklist for Brand DesignersEpisode 154: Streamline Your Design Process with Canva with Juls Christie-Clark ----------------------- Social media in 2025 is pure chaos—platforms are shifting, algorithms are unpredictable, and keeping up feels like a full-time job. That’s why we're sharing our 2025 Social Media Webinar that we share with all of our clients. It's a no-BS breakdown of what’s working, what’s dead, and how to build a strategy that actually delivers. Whether you’re a brand owner or a social media pro, this resource is your shortcut to navigating the wild west of online marketing. Tune in at MKWCreative.co/resources/p/2025socialmedia ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook GroupInstagramTik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma. ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard
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    19 m
  • 226. Balancing Creativity and Business with Amanda Moul
    Aug 5 2025
    Learn what creative professionals really need to succeed. Amanda Moul, VP of Account Management at The Shipyard, joins Michelle to talk about the intersection of creativity, business, and leadership. From transitioning from a design background into account management to leading big-name campaigns, Amanda shares her insights on balancing hard and soft skills, building a personal brand, and thriving in a fast-changing industry. They discuss everything from generational shifts in work ethic to how AI is reshaping advertising. If you want to level up both your creativity and your career strategy, this episode is packed with lessons. Amanda helps brands find their voice, navigate challenges, and bring big ideas to life—on time, on budget, and with purpose. She's passionate about translating business objectives into actionable strategy, fostering collaborative team environments, and ensuring creative work stays connected to real audience insight. Her leadership style is rooted in transparency, trust, and a deep belief that the best work happens when teams feel supported, empowered, and aligned. Her current role at The Shipyard empowers her to be part of the full process, leading talented and passionate teams to transform research and insights into strategic, impactful advertising programs and business solutions for reputable clients across various sectors, including government, non-profit, sustainability, energy, tourism, entertainment, and education. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Amanda’s career shift from design to account management.The importance of balancing creativity with business strategy.Soft skills and leadership in agency life.Generational differences in work ethic and personal branding.The role of internships, portfolios, and LinkedIn in job hunting.Taste vs. technical skills—how to stand out as a creative.Agency vs. freelance work: finding your career fit.AI in advertising—risks, ethics, and opportunities.Public speaking and communication as underrated career skills.The future of advertising and adapting to changing platforms. ---------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 128: Meet the Team: Online Business Manager Cody Garner-Howe ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To work with Amanda, follow the Shipyard on Instagram @TheShipyard and visit their website, TheShipyard.com ----------------------- Social media in 2025 is pure chaos—platforms are shifting, algorithms are unpredictable, and keeping up feels like a full-time job. That’s why we're sharing our 2025 Social Media Webinar that we share with all of our clients. It's a no-BS breakdown of what’s working, what’s dead, and how to build a strategy that actually delivers. Whether you’re a brand owner or a social media pro, this resource is your shortcut to navigating the wild west of online marketing. Tune in at MKWCreative.co/resources/p/2025socialmedia ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook GroupInstagramTik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma. ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard
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    43 m
  • 225. Avoid Creative Burnout with Meg Wagler
    Jul 29 2025
    How can you find the magic when you unplug? Illustrator and muralist Meg Wagler joins Michelle to talk about cultivating creativity, balancing digital and analog mediums, and finding inspiration in unexpected places. They discuss the power of curiosity, the value of having non-monetized hobbies, and how Meg’s artist residency in Finland reshaped her approach to rest and creativity. From building an “inspiration bin” to exploring dreamscapes, Meg shares how artists can avoid burnout while creating meaningful, vibrant work. This episode is a deep dive into the intersection of art, life, and the power of slowing down. Meg Wagler is a visual story teller, illustrator, and creative speaker based in the midwest and known internationally for her vibrant art, thoughtful concepts and dynamic energy. After a career start in graphic design and art direction, Meg left the agency world in 2019 to practice art & illustration. She's worked with brands and organizations around the country painting murals, illustrating campaigns, and building experiences. She recently founded Overlay, Inc., a non profit arts organization hosting a mural and music festival in the midwest. She's got 2 kids, 2 dogs, 5 chickens and 1 very patient partner. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Meg's journey from graphic design to illustrationDefining your artistic styleInterplay between digital and physical mediumsCreating your inspiration bin for fresh ideasDiversifying your artistic tasteLessons from her Finland artist residencyWhat we're capable of when we're at easeExploring dreamscapes and immersive art conceptsReintegrating into daily life after creative sabbaticalsAdvice for staying curious and avoiding burnout ---------------------- RESOURCES: Blog: 2025 Design Trend Predictions ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about Meg and her creative practice, follow her Instagram @MegWagler_Illustration, on Facebook @MegWaglerIllustration and visit her website, MegWagler.co/ ----------------------- Social media in 2025 is pure chaos—platforms are shifting, algorithms are unpredictable, and keeping up feels like a full-time job. That’s why we're sharing our 2025 Social Media Webinar that we share with all of our clients. It's a no-BS breakdown of what’s working, what’s dead, and how to build a strategy that actually delivers. Whether you’re a brand owner or a social media pro, this resource is your shortcut to navigating the wild west of online marketing. Tune in at MKWCreative.co/resources/p/2025socialmedia ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook GroupInstagramTik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma. ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard
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    48 m
  • 224. Pivot Your Creative Business with AMD Creative
    Jul 22 2025
    Discover why confidence is the secret ingredient to creative success. Adelaide returns to the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast to share her unfiltered journey of restructuring her agency, building confidence, and embracing creativity on her own terms. She and Michelle discuss boundaries, working remotely, and why creative entrepreneurs need to “coast through the cringe” to grow. From starting a new course to leaning into public speaking, Adelaide opens up about what it really takes to evolve as both a business owner and creator. Remember: confidence is built, not given. Adelaide Matte is the founder of AMD Creative, a thriving agency based in Birmingham, Alabama. With a sharp eye for design and a deep understanding of branding and storytelling, she has built AMD Creative into a sought-after agency that helps businesses and individuals craft authentic narratives. Adelaide is passionate about trend forecasting and creativity in all its forms, often following the latest in fashion and occasionally sewing her own clothes. A steadfast advocate for women’s empowerment, she fosters environments where women can thrive and grow. Through her leadership and mentorship, she inspires others to embrace their potential, creating a ripple effect of positivity and progress. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: The CEO mindset and restructuring AMD Creative for flexibility and growthSetting boundaries as a young agency ownerFinding your creative flow and maximizing itLaunching Coast Through the CringeThe phases of going from cringe to confidenceFueling your creativity outside of workPublic speaking and personal branding evolutionSocial media, authenticity, and follower expectationsFinding balance between personal identity and business ---------------------- RESOURCES: Follow Coast Through the Cringe on InstagramEpisode 116: Creative Agency Life with Adelaide MatteEpisode 055: Life According to Creative Agency Owners - Adelaide Matte of AMD Creative ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about AMD Creative, follow them on Instagram and TikTok @AdelaideTheCreator and visit their website, AMDBirmingham.com ----------------------- Social media in 2025 is pure chaos—platforms are shifting, algorithms are unpredictable, and keeping up feels like a full-time job. That’s why we're sharing our 2025 Social Media Webinar that we share with all of our clients. It's a no-BS breakdown of what’s working, what’s dead, and how to build a strategy that actually delivers. Whether you’re a brand owner or a social media pro, this resource is your shortcut to navigating the wild west of online marketing. Tune in at MKWCreative.co/resources/p/2025socialmedia ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook GroupInstagramTik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma. ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard
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    44 m
  • 223. Client Case Study: Falling Waters Landscape
    Jul 15 2025
    Good design starts with good questions. MKW Creative Co. client Ryan Prange of Falling Waters Landscape shares his approach to designing outdoor spaces that feel intentional, livable, and distinctive. He and Michelle discuss the importance of asking better questions, delivering hospitality-level service, and truly listening to clients. From high-end residential gardens to restaurant patios, Ryan explains why great design isn't just about aesthetics but about creating spaces people want to use. Tune in to learn about intuitive design. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Building a work ethic through the family businessForming your communication style with clientsHaving a hospitality mindsetLeadership and team collaborationAsking the right questions to your clientsShowing off your range while being authentic to your styleRyan's restaurant design approachInitiating budget conversationsAdapting design for commercial vs. residentialCalifornia lifestyle and outdoor livingPersonal mission & inspiration ---------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 215: Client Case Study: FRG Real Estate (Part 2)Episode 204: Crafting Your Artistic Style with Jessica Molina ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about Falling Waters Landscape, follow them Instagram & Facebook @FallingWatersLandscape and visit their website, FallingWatersLandscape.com ----------------------- Social media in 2025 is pure chaos—platforms are shifting, algorithms are unpredictable, and keeping up feels like a full-time job. That’s why we're sharing our 2025 Social Media Webinar that we share with all of our clients. It's a no-BS breakdown of what’s working, what’s dead, and how to build a strategy that actually delivers. Whether you’re a brand owner or a social media pro, this resource is your shortcut to navigating the wild west of online marketing. Tune in at MKWCreative.co/resources/p/2025socialmedia ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook GroupInstagramTik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma. ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard
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    42 m
  • 222. Turning Anxiety Into Action with Whitney Alexandra
    Jul 8 2025
    Your brand still matters even when the world is on fire. This week, Whitney Alexandra returns on the podcast to unpack the necessary work of showing up online authentically, why your business needs Fabulous Fridays, and why getting back to in-person connecting and tactile hobbies is so important. It’s about building a brand that’s resilient, relevant, and ready for real connection. Whitney Alexandra is a Performance Coach for top women entrepreneurs who want to create limitless wealth and a fabulous life beyond their wildest desires. She has spent the past 20+ years helping powerful business owners unlock their peak potential. Through her signature approach rooted in evidence-based performance coaching strategies, Whitney’s clients experience transformational shifts in a fraction of the time — often up-leveling every area of their lives and businesses in a matter of mere months. In 2023, Whitney was named a member of the prestigious Forbes Business Council. As a thought leader and contributor on this global platform, Whitney is focused on opening up higher-level conversations and connections to women entrepreneurs all over the world. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: What female entrepreneurs are struggling with todayShowing up authentically onlineCourage vs. Confidence – Why business owners need both, especially now.Social Media Anxiety – Holding opposing truths in tough news cycles.Client mindset blocksBoundaries for creativesWhat would happen if social media disappeared todayFabulous Fridays – Rest as a strategy, not indulgence.Resisting performative postingTeam conversations about brand valuesOffline connectionLow-stakes creativity ---------------------- RESOURCES: Episode 138: 10x Your Biz and Build a Life You Love with Whitney AlexandraTEDx Anxiety as Fuel for Creativity with Sharon Dowell ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about Whitney and her coaching, follow her Instagram @WhitneyAlexandra and on Facebook @WhitneyInc and visit her website, WhitneyAlexandra.co ----------------------- Social media in 2025 is pure chaos—platforms are shifting, algorithms are unpredictable, and keeping up feels like a full-time job. That’s why we're sharing our 2025 Social Media Webinar that we share with all of our clients. It's a no-BS breakdown of what’s working, what’s dead, and how to build a strategy that actually delivers. Whether you’re a brand owner or a social media pro, this resource is your shortcut to navigating the wild west of online marketing. Tune in at MKWCreative.co/resources/p/2025socialmedia ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook GroupInstagramTik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma. ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard
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    43 m
  • 221. The Strategy Behind Viral, Fan-Loved Branding with Cookie in the Kitchen
    Jul 1 2025
    Make your audience feel seen, and they'll do the marketing for you. Cookie in the Kitchen has built the kind of brand people want to show off, share, and celebrate—even Harry Styles. She and Michelle dig into the strategy behind art that feels personal, why fandom is community gold, and how nailing the details turns customers into evangelists. From TikTok virality to capturing an artist’s “lore” on a cookie, Emily proves branding is about seeing people deeply. If you want your work to feel irresistible, this episode is your blueprint. Hi friends, I’m Emily, the cookie girl! I’m an entrepreneur, cookie artist, and content creator based in Nashville, TN. My mission is to make people feel like celebrities and celebrities feel like people with the delightfully-edible art of handcrafted decorated cookies. I started Cookie in the Kitchen at the age of 11 as one of many creative phases, and ran it throughout middle, high school and college. (Turns out it wasn't a phase!) I now create cookies full-time for social media brand partnerships, musicians and celebs, as well as local Nashville custom orders. ------------------------ In today's episode, we cover the following: Being a young entrepreneurKnowing your audience deeplyFandom as community-buildingCollaborating with Harry StylesEmily's creative processSocial media viralityBranding beyond aestheticsCollaborating with your audienceBalancing art and businessAdvice for creatives ----------------------- GUEST INFO: To learn more about Emily and Cookie in the Kitchen, follow her Instagram and TikTok @CookieInTheKitchen, on Facebook @CookieInTheKitchen2011 and visit her website, CookieInTheKitchen.com. ----------------------- Social media in 2025 is pure chaos—platforms are shifting, algorithms are unpredictable, and keeping up feels like a full-time job. That’s why we're sharing our 2025 Social Media Webinar that we share with all of our clients. It's a no-BS breakdown of what’s working, what’s dead, and how to build a strategy that actually delivers. Whether you’re a brand owner or a social media pro, this resource is your shortcut to navigating the wild west of online marketing. Tune in at MKWCreative.co/resources/p/2025socialmedia ----------------------- WORK WITH MKW CREATIVE CO. Connect on social with Michelle at: Kiss My Aesthetic Facebook GroupInstagramTik Tok ----------------------- Did you know that the fuel of the POD and the KMA Team runs on coffee? ;) If you love the content shared in the KMA podcast, you're welcome to invite us to a cup of coffee any time - Buy Me a Coffee! ----------------------- This episode is brought to you by Zencastr. Create high quality video and audio content. Get your first two weeks free at https://zencastr.com/?via=kma. ----------------------- This episode of the Kiss My Aesthetic Podcast is brought to you by Audible. Get your first month free at www.audible.com/kma. This episode was edited by Berta Wired Theme music by: Eliza Rosevera and Nathan Menard
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    38 m