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The podcast for leaders of creative agencies who want to work on their business as confidently as they work in it.
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Chip Griffin and Gini Dietrich share practical advice for PR and marketing agency owners build better businesses.
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Conversations with Leaders and Founders of Marketing Agencies, sharing wisdom on how they built their company, lessons they wish they knew when they started, and marketing and agency strategies for the months and years ahead.
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We look to understand how the very best marketing agencies motivate and lead their teams. We interview inspiring agency owners and leaders who are bucking the typical trend and getting outstanding scores in the AgencyBenchmarker research. If you want to run a brilliant agency with stunningly productive and engaged people then this is the podcast for you.
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It’s business as usual in their 250th episode, as Chip and Gini continue to share their unvarnished opinions. At the risk of this being their last episode, they have once again chosen to tell you what you’re doing wrong as an agency owner. The hosts share specific examples of agency owners breaking or ignoring rules that they don’t like — or that c…
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In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss strategic planning for growing an agency in 2025. They stress the importance of planning during Q4 and consistently gathering ideas throughout the year, whether digitally or using methods like post-it notes. They highlight the common mistake of agencies relying solely on referrals or word-of-mouth without proa…
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In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the critical aspects of onboarding new clients in the agency world. They emphasize the importance of setting clear expectations, proactive communication, and understanding client processes. The conversation includes tips for achieving quick wins without overburdening clients, integrating with client systems, a…
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In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of having clear alcohol policies in agencies. They explore the evolving norms of alcohol consumption in professional settings, the necessity of having written rules, and the implications for office events, client meetings, and expenses. Drawing on their experiences and insights from expert Patri…
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In this episode, Chip and Gini explore the challenges of ageism within the PR and marketing industries, with a focus on agencies. They discuss the stereotypes associated with older professionals, particularly concerning their perceived familiarity with platforms like TikTok. They emphasize the value of experience and the misconceptions around the c…
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Q3 agency owner survey shows overall optimism, but dissatisfaction with state of business development
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In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss results from the SAGA Q3 Agency Owner Survey. Despite a difficult year, the survey reveals widespread optimism among small agency owners regarding future revenue and profit growth. However, there is a noted contradiction, as not as many respondents plan to increase headcount. The discussion highlights agency o…
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Tim Kelsey is the Managing Director of Pronto Marketing, a web development and marketing agency specializing in building, supporting, and promoting WordPress websites for small businesses. Over his 14-year tenure at Pronto, he has grown from an entry-level role in SEO to now overseeing a diverse team of over 90 members spanning Central and South Am…
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In this episode, Chip and Gini dismantle the myth that agency management can rely on a one-size-fits-all approach. They emphasize the importance of understanding the diversity and unique needs of different types of agencies, such as PR, ad, and digital agencies. Chip and Gini discuss their experiences in various agency environments and highlight th…
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In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of effective reporting for agencies. Many agency leaders view reports as a necessary evil, but when done right they can actually become an important contributor to profits. Chip and Gini recommend auditing existing reports to eliminate unnecessary ones and creating meaningful reports that direct…
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Marcel Petitpas is the CEO and Co-founder of Parakeeto, a consultancy dedicated to optimizing agency profitability. With roles such as Head Strategic Coach at Dan Martell and former COO at Gold Front, he leverages his experience as a strategic coach and consultant to aid agencies and SaaS in operational and profitability optimization. As a sought-a…
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In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the pros and cons of using LinkedIn for agency growth and professional engagement. They touch upon the challenges of spam and overautomation, and emphasize the importance of personalized, thoughtful interactions. They also share strategies for repurposing content, such as tailoring blog posts to different audi…
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In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the pivotal role of trust within agency teams. They explore common scenarios where agency owners struggle with trusting their employees, often due to micromanagement tendencies, ill-defined roles, or unrealistic expectations. They emphasize the importance of clear communication, proper onboarding, and creating…
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Agencies sometimes find themselves mired in micromanagement, worried about the wrong things, or presenting ill-considered solutions to clients. Much of this can be avoided by asking “So What?” more often. In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of that one question and how it can lead to more effective decision-making for agency owner…
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Leeann Leahy is the CEO of The VIA Agency, an independent creative agency based in Portland, Maine. With a background in account planning and strategy, Leeann transitioned into agency leadership, championing creativity, fun, and strategic thinking in her approach to advertising. Her commitment to innovation and employee engagement has propelled VIA…
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In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of email marketing for agencies. They emphasize that email newsletters should be a top priority for agencies to nurture leads, share content, and maintain direct communication with clients. The conversation highlights the risks of relying solely on social media platforms, which can change or dis…
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If you’re a regular listener, you know that Chip and Gini have strong feelings about staying away from RFPs when possible. But sometimes they can’t be avoided. In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss offer practical tips for handling RFPs efficiently, like templatizing repeat information, asking insightful questions, and focusing on building relatio…
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In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss whether PR agencies should report to the head of communications or the head of marketing. They reference a LinkedIn post by Parry Headrick, which suggests that PR agencies should ideally report to the communications lead. Chip and Gini explore various considerations such as the size and structure of the client…
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For years, agency advisors like Chip and Gini have implored agencies to be strategic and avoid being simple order takers. Owners were told that this shift was key to increasing profitability and client retention. But has it gone too far? In this episode, Chip and Gini examine whether agencies have hit ‘peak strategy’ as suggested recently by Blair …
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In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the widespread apprehension about AI in the agency world, urging listeners to embrace the technology rather than fear it. They emphasize that AI will not replace jobs but will change the nature of work, making tasks more efficient and allowing for more strategic focus. The conversation also explores how agency…
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Jason Therrien is the Founder and CEO of thunder::tech, an integrated marketing agency specializing in digital marketing, brand strategy, and advertising. Since 1997, he has been an entrepreneurial force in the Great Lakes region, creating impact as an investor, board member, and civic volunteer. His dedication to problem-solving and value-driven r…
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Are you finding biz dev harder in 2024 than you expected? In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the increased risk aversion and prolonged decision-making processes among clients and prospects in the agency industry, especially in light of economic uncertainties and the 2024 U.S. election. They emphasize the importance of agencies adapting by provi…
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“If an employee is too critical to take vacation, your problem isn’t the employee.” In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of ensuring that no one in an agency, including owners and key employees, is too indispensable to take time off. They explore the belief versus reality of being irreplaceable, and provide actionable strategies fo…
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Sharon Toerek is the Owner and Founder of Toerek Law, where she dedicates her practice to advising independent marketing and creative services agencies on protecting and monetizing their intellectual capital. A marketing law attorney with extensive experience in copyright, trademark, and content protection, Sharon offers strategic counsel on licens…
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Don’t sugarcoat it when writing up a job description or interviewing potential new hires – painting a rosy picture that doesn’t match reality will only cause you headaches down the road. In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of being open and honest about work expectations at your agency, including hours, tasks, and working conditio…
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Gen Z employees tend to have a different (not worse!) approach to their jobs than the older generations do. Which means that as an owner, you need to evolve the way you communicate with and manage them. In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss those differences and the importance of effective communication and feedback in managing and leading. They h…
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Jason Mitchell is the CEO and Co-founder of Movement Strategy, a forward-thinking social media marketing agency that began in his college dorm room. With expertise in emerging technologies and social platform trends, Jason guides his agency in leading social-centric branding initiatives for high-profile clients such as Netflix, Amazon, and Warner B…
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It must be nice to own an agency because then you’re earning the big bucks, right? Many agency employees complain that clients pay so much more than they are making, so the owner must be reaping a huge profit. It makes it easy to think that setting out on your own and working for clients directly is the right answer. In this episode, Chip and Gini …
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Hiring seasoned professionals sounds like it will solve a lot of headaches you have as an agency owner. But will it? In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of balancing senior and junior hires in agencies, highlighting the pros and cons of primarily staffing with senior level talent. They emphasize the need for clear expectations, re…
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Luke Komiskey is the Founder and CEO of DataDrive, a consulting firm specializing in managed analytic services. With over a decade of experience, Luke has played a pivotal role in making data analytics more accessible to various businesses. Under his leadership, DataDrive has evolved into a global team of professionals supporting over 150 organizat…
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Chip and Gini discuss recent updates from the federal government affecting agency owners, including a ban on non-compete agreements and changes to salary thresholds for overtime exempt employees. It emphasizes the importance of compliance, working with professional advisors, and making necessary adjustments to HR policies. Key takeaways Gini Dietri…
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You trust your team, right? In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the importance of agency owners letting go of micromanaging, trusting their team, and focusing on building a scalable business. They emphasize the need for owners to delegate tasks and avoid being bottlenecks. They also touch on the challenges and benefits of transitioning from bein…
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Jon Tsourakis is the Co-owner, President, and Chief Revenue Officer at Oyova, an agency offering integrated digital solutions such as app development, web design, and marketing to create efficient processes for company growth. Jon is a serial entrepreneur and marketing strategist whose continual study of brand identity, business communications, buy…
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Matthew Connor, Founder and CEO of CyberLynx, began his programming career at 12 years old while working as a coder for his father’s company. His passion led him to develop his own company, which focuses on offering premium IT services and protecting growing businesses from ransomware. CyberLynx, previously known as Your IT Department, continues to…
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Chip and Gini discuss the intricacies of fractional leadership roles within clients. They share their experiences and provide advice on managing relationships, setting clear boundaries, handling administrative tasks, and positioning yourself accurately in these roles. Key takeaways Chip Griffin: “Fractional roles tend to work best when there’s a fr…
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Kevin Hourigan is the President of Spinutech, a full-service website design and digital marketing agency dedicated to developing customized and data-driven digital marketing solutions. Before merging his business with his current business partner, Kevin founded Bayshore Solutions, which he operated for over two decades. He’s been an active YPO memb…
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Start-up clients may not have the funds to pay you, but still need service, so why not consider receiving equity as payment? In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the potential pitfalls of that approach. They caution against exotic payment schemes such as equity or pay for performance, emphasizing the risks and complexities involved. They also hig…
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In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the fear of hiring employees, the implications of using contractors, the financial considerations, and the benefits of having employees. They emphasize the need to align hiring decisions with long-term business goals and not to be afraid of hiring employees when it makes sense financially. Key takeaways Chip G…
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Jon Morris is the Founder and CEO of Ramsay Innovations, which helps businesses quickly scale through financial education and strategic funds allocations. In September, Jon founded Fiscal Advocate, which specializes in helping marketing communication firms manage their finances, gain business insights, and grow revenue. Before joining Ramsay Innova…
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Employee complaints? Accountable only to yourself? Trying to create a work culture? Welcome to agency ownership! In this episode, Chip and Gini discuss the challenges and frustrations of owning an agency, emphasizing the importance of seeking accountability and support, and reflecting on one’s own role in addressing issues. The discussion also incl…
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