Boonrise

12/17/2024

A common mistake of marketing videos is that the content can feel more like a book report than a story.

Providing data alone doesn't generate emotion, which then doesn't generate action. If you tell a story based on that data with a hook, heart, and a thread that connects it all together, you can spark hope, curiosity, and action. So stay away from book reports and start crafting stories.

12/09/2024

Most great video interviews follow a specific rhythm of “what” and “why” questions. The “what” question is going to provide context and information. The “why” question is going to provide emotion and passion, and gets to purpose. When interviewing someone, rotate between “what” and “why” questions.

“What do you do?”
“What does this product do?”
“Why is that important?”

You need information to know the subject. But, what will hook people and make them care is the question of "why does this matter?"

12/05/2024

If you’re making marketing content, make sure you know what you want your audience to feel and make sure you’re crafting a story that will create and reflect that emotion so that it sparks hope and action. Don’t just serve up a pile of data. Craft a story. Stories create emotion. Emotion creates action. Because we feel before we do.

11/25/2024

Transforming the Bible into a library of books was a fun challenge. Thanks to Donny Black, Sarah Albanese, and Iron Wing Studios for the opportunity and to the amazing Justin Dunn Illustrations for the awesome artwork!

11/19/2024

It was pleasure to tell the story of this awesome project of collaboration among SonLight Power, BLOC Ministries, Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden, and City Of Cincinnati Government. Thanks to Kevin Sasson, Mark Fisher, Mackenzie Sharpshair, and Dwight Young for taking time for interviews.

11/12/2024

Five Lessons Learned From Year One of Business Ownership

This month marks one year since I officially became a business owner with my acquisition of Boonrise. It’s been a fun journey thus far and I have already learned a ton.

1. Speedboats are more fun than cruise ships. Both are great, but I enjoy being nimble and partnering with freelancers rather than building a large company. I like the ability to be able to move quickly to help clients when they need a swift last minute solution.

2. I am “They.” Win or lose, good or bad, the responsibility of the company is mine. If “the company” isn’t implementing a strategy I think is best I can only look in the mirror.

3. Teammates and community come in a variety of forms. Just because you’re a solopreneur doesn’t mean you’re alone. Though there are times I miss daily collaboration with co-workers, I’ve found meaningful work connections through freelance partners, repeat clients, and friends who are also professional creatives.

4. Self-defined structure is powerful. When you are your boss it can be fun, but also overwhelming. For me, creating some structure and routine for myself propels my productivity. As Zach Daulton says, you still need to set an alarm, take a shower, and wear real pants every day.

5. Helping others succeed gives me a dopamine rush. I know it sounds super trite. But, this is something I’ve discovered over the years and it’s been further confirmed over the last year. When my clients and freelance partners experience success, recognition, or just really kill it on a project or initiative I get a buzz.

11/01/2024

Run ‘n gun kind of day.

10/31/2024

Thanks again to the Cindependent Film Festival and Allyson West for the opportunity to talk corporate storytelling. And yes, that is H. Jon Benjamin's (Bob's Burgers) and Karyn Parsons (Fresh Prince of Bel Air), who were also at the festival :) Thanks to and Jake Stahl for photos.

10/26/2024

Stop by the Cincinnati Friars Club today!

10/22/2024

Leadercast has been a favorite client for more than 10 years now and their projects continue to be a highlight. Be sure to check out their two hour leadship development program Super Teams II with Jon Sanchez and Julie Kroger Bauke.

10/18/2024

We had a great time producing this music video along with Iron Wing Studios and a fun group of cast and crew.

09/27/2024

Attended my first CreativeMornings/Cincinnati event. Thank you to the Cincinnati team and to artist Sarah Imran!

09/18/2024

Come join me on Friday afternoon and learn:
#1 Rule of Corporate Storytelling
Frameworks Used by George Lucas & Pixar
7 Questions to Ask in (almost) Every Interview
Video Production Techniques for Novice & Newbies
Best Practices for Outsourcing Big Projects

$14 or free with a Cindependent Film Festival pass. All money goes to support this awesome community organization.

Making videos that spark hope & action with humor & heart.

09/04/2024

This is perfect for marketing & communications professionals, non-profits, and young video professionals. Link in comments.