Koyoti Small Business Podcast

Koyoti

While Koyoti Inc. is a marketing and design studio here in Toronto, we’re going to try to go beyond our own comfort zone and talk about all elements that pertain to Small Businesses. From social media marketing to book keeping; and from sales to mental health.

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BusinessBusiness
MarketingMarketing
EntrepreneurshipEntrepreneurship

Episodes

Yips Pips and Yaps  - Season 3 Final Thoughts
Oct 28 2024
Yips Pips and Yaps - Season 3 Final Thoughts
SummaryIn this season finale of the Koyoti Small Business Podcast, host Thomas reflects on the key themes and insights from Season Three, which focused on branding fundamentals. He discusses the importance of understanding one's brand story and messaging, shares personal experiences from Coyote's rebranding journey, and looks ahead to the upcoming Season Four, which will feature more expert insights and marketing stories. Thomas encourages listeners to engage with the podcast and reach out for support in their branding efforts.TakeawaysThis season focused on the brand journey and branding fundamentals.Understanding your brand's 'why' is crucial for effective marketing.Coyote is undergoing its own rebranding process.Team-building activities can enhance the rebranding experience.Brand messaging should align with your core values and customer needs.SWOT analysis helps identify opportunities in the market.Authenticity in branding fosters a stronger connection with the audience.The upcoming season will feature expert insights from various business professionals.Listeners are encouraged to provide feedback and suggestions for future episodes.The branding bootcamp offers a structured approach to developing brand strategies.Send us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!
Conquering Brand Beasts - Things We Missed
Oct 21 2024
Conquering Brand Beasts - Things We Missed
SummaryIn this episode, JCC and Thomas discuss various aspects of branding and marketing, including the importance of core values, community engagement, and brand trust; topics and questions that they missed or needed more context for. They explore Fujifilm's response to a disaster, the role of AI in marketing, and the significance of experiential marketing. The conversation also touches on metrics and KPIs for small businesses, emphasizing the need for a holistic approach to branding and marketing strategies.TakeawaysFujifilm's initiative to restore photos after the tsunami highlights the importance of core values in branding.Understanding your core values can guide your business decisions and community engagement efforts.Brand trust is crucial for long-term customer relationships, especially among younger consumers.AI can be a powerful tool in marketing, but it should be used to enhance human creativity, not replace it.Experiential marketing can create meaningful connections with consumers, extending the brand experience beyond traditional methods.Metrics and KPIs should focus on customer engagement and retention rather than just sales figures.Building a brand is about creating a narrative that resonates with your audience.Community involvement can strengthen brand loyalty and trust.The shape of the marketing funnel has evolved, requiring brands to adapt their strategies accordingly.Authenticity in messaging is key to building lasting relationships with customers.Send us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!
Yips, Pips, and Yaps - 5 Pillars Of Competition For Product Based Companies
Oct 14 2024
Yips, Pips, and Yaps - 5 Pillars Of Competition For Product Based Companies
SummaryIn this episode of the Coyote Small Business Podcast, Thomas discusses the complexities of developing a new product-based company in a competitive market. He highlights the importance of understanding product viability, the challenges of being a first mover, and the five key areas—service, price, variety, quality, and design—where businesses can compete. The conversation emphasizes the need for a strong brand strategy to differentiate in the market.TakeawaysDeveloping a new product is both easier and more difficult than ever.Being a first mover has its challenges, including market education.A product may not be viable due to high costs or lack of interest.Timing is crucial for product success in the market.Competing on price is often not sustainable for small businesses.Quality can justify higher prices but requires investment.Design can differentiate products in a crowded market.Every product-based company must consider the five pillars of competition.Brand strategy is essential for market differentiation.Storytelling can resonate with consumers and enhance brand loyalty.Send us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!
Conquering Brand Beasts - Brand Considerations For A Brick And Mortar Location
Oct 7 2024
Conquering Brand Beasts - Brand Considerations For A Brick And Mortar Location
An ongoing segment with KSBP we're calling Conquering Brand Beasts. Marketing mavericks talking about topics all things marketing.SummaryIn this episode, Thomas and JCC discuss the importance of brick and mortar locations for businesses. They share stories of brands using unique vehicles to create brand experiences on the road. They emphasize the need for businesses to choose the right location and consider the demographics and demand in the area. They also discuss the significance of signage in attracting customers and creating brand recognition. Additionally, they highlight the importance of the interior decor aligning with the brand's image and story. In this conversation, Thomas and JCC discuss the importance of branding in brick and mortar businesses. They explore how signage, interior design, uniforms, and customer experience all contribute to the overall brand image. They also discuss the role of HR in maintaining brand authenticity and the importance of aligning brand fundamentals with all aspects of the business. The conversation emphasizes the need for businesses to understand their core values and lean into them to create a memorable and cohesive brand experience.TakeawaysChoose the right location for your brick and mortar store based on demographics and demand in the area.Invest in signage that reflects your brand and attracts customers.Ensure that the interior decor aligns with your brand's image and story.Create unique brand experiences on the road using vehicles or installations. Signage, interior design, and uniforms contribute to the overall brand image in brick and mortar businesses.HR practices and employee treatment play a role in maintaining brand authenticity.Businesses should align their brand fundamentals with all aspects of the business.Understanding core values and creating a memorable brand experience is crucial for success.Send us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!
Small Business Spotlight - Thornhill Doulas
Sep 30 2024
Small Business Spotlight - Thornhill Doulas
SummaryIn this episode of the Koyoti Small Business Podcast, host Thomas speaks with Suyin and Petra from Thornhill Doulas about their experiences and insights into the world of doula services. They discuss their personal journeys to becoming doulas, the various roles doulas play in supporting families during childbirth and postpartum, and the importance of having a doula for expectant parents. The conversation also covers the myths surrounding postpartum care, the certification process for doulas, and how to choose the right doula for your family. Suyin and Petra emphasize the significance of comfort and trust in the doula-client relationship and share details about the additional services offered by Thornhill Doulas.TakeawaysEvery expectant parent would benefit from having a doula.Doulas provide essential support during the postpartum period.Navigating information overload is a key role of doulas.Comfort and trust are crucial in the doula-client relationship.Doulas help educate parents on newborn care.Postpartum doulas focus on the well-being of the birth parent.There are no dumb questions in parenting; all inquiries are valid.Doulas can assist with sleep consulting and lactation support.Certification and ongoing education are important for doulas.Choosing the right doula involves personal connection and comfort.Contact Thornhill DoulasEmailWebsiteInstagramFacebookPhoneSend us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!
Conquering Brand Beasts - Engaging the Community with Paraphernalia Functional Paraphernalia: Examples and Impact
Sep 23 2024
Conquering Brand Beasts - Engaging the Community with Paraphernalia Functional Paraphernalia: Examples and Impact
SummaryIn this episode, Jonathan Chan Chung (JCC) and Thomas Wu discuss the importance of paraphernalia in branding. They explore the evolution of paraphernalia from the 90s to the present day and how it has become an essential part of the customer experience. They highlight the difference between paraphernalia and merch, emphasizing the need to represent the brand properly. They also discuss the power of nostalgia and community engagement in creating effective paraphernalia. The conversation includes examples such as the Szechuan sauce from McDonald's and the use of paraphernalia at anime conventions. Paraphernalia, such as promotional items and giveaways, can be used to keep a brand top of mind and evoke positive emotions. It is important for paraphernalia to represent the brand's core values and provide value to the recipient. Examples of effective paraphernalia include shoe horns from Redwing, travel chargers from Riverbed, and paper crowns from Burger King. Paraphernalia can be used in various contexts, such as trade shows, client gifts, awards and recognition, and product shipments. It creates tangible connections and memorable experiences for customers.TakeawaysParaphernalia has evolved from simple promotional items to an essential part of the customer experience.Effective paraphernalia represents the brand properly and engages the community.Nostalgia can be a powerful tool in creating paraphernalia that resonates with customers.Understanding your market and their consumer behaviors is crucial in designing and distributing paraphernalia.Investing in high-quality paraphernalia can leave a lasting impression on customers. Paraphernalia should represent the brand's core values and provide value to the recipient.Functional items, such as shoe horns and travel chargers, can be effective paraphernalia.Paraphernalia can create tangible connections and evoke positive emotions, such as joy and nostalgia.It can be used in various contexts, including trade shows, client gifts, awards and recognition, and product shipments.Building a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!Send us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!
Yips, Pips, and Yaps - Embracing Core Values: Fujifilm's Branding Lesson
Sep 16 2024
Yips, Pips, and Yaps - Embracing Core Values: Fujifilm's Branding Lesson
SummaryFujifilm's story is about overcoming challenges, embracing change, and staying true to core values. They started as an underdog in the film industry, but through strategic decisions and embracing new technologies, they became a rival to Kodak. Fujifilm diversified into various markets, including pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and data storage. They also demonstrated courage and bravery in making changes and staying committed to their vision. The company's dedication to preserving photography culture was evident in their efforts to restore photos after the 2011 earthquake. Small businesses can learn from Fujifilm's history by avoiding arrogance, embracing change, and staying true to their brand and core values.TakeawaysAvoid arrogance, bureaucracy, and complacencyEmbrace change and pivot when necessaryHave courage and conviction in your decisionsStay committed to your vision and brandLearn from experiences and apply knowledgePreserve and protect your core valuesSupport and assist in causes aligned with your brandMarketing is about doing things that align with your brandFUJIFILM Photo Rescue Project: https://photo-rescue.fujifilm.com/en/index.html#mokujiBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!Send us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!
Conquering Brand Beasts - Creating Engaging and Relatable Social Media Content
Sep 11 2024
Conquering Brand Beasts - Creating Engaging and Relatable Social Media Content
SummaryIn this episode, Thomas and JCC discuss the evolution of Snoop Dogg's brand and how he has expanded beyond his origins in hip hop. They also explore the importance of social media in building a brand and the different platforms available. They emphasize the need for authenticity and understanding your audience when using social media. They also discuss the challenges and opportunities of monetizing social media and mention platforms like Patreon, Kickstarter, and OnlyFans. In this conversation, John and Thomas discuss the importance of authenticity and community building on social media. They explore the power of platforms like TikTok and Clubhouse, as well as the role of influencers in marketing. They also highlight the value of creating engaging and relatable content, and the importance of staying true to your brand's core values. The conversation concludes with tips for small business owners on social media best practices, including the importance of giving value, being consistent, and building a sense of community.TakeawaysSnoop Dogg has successfully expanded his brand beyond hip hop and has become an aspirational figure by leveraging his talent, connections, and personal growth.Social media platforms offer opportunities for businesses to connect with their audience, but it's important to be authentic and speak in a way that resonates with them.The social media landscape is constantly changing, and it's important to adapt and explore different platforms to reach your target audience.Monetizing social media can be challenging, but there are opportunities to generate revenue through platforms like Patreon, Kickstarter, and OnlyFans.Building a loyal fan base and engaging with them through various tiers and exclusive content can help qualify leads and create a core group of supporters. Authenticity and community building are key to success on social media.Platforms like TikTok and Clubhouse offer unique opportunities for engagement and connection.Influencers can be powerful allies in marketing efforts.Creating engaging and relatable content is essential.Staying true to your brand's core values is crucial.Small business owners should focus on giving value, being consistent, and building a sense of community.Send us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!
Yips, Pips, and Yaps - Shiny Object Syndrome
Sep 2 2024
Yips, Pips, and Yaps - Shiny Object Syndrome
SummaryIn this episode, the host discusses the concept of shiny object syndrome in marketing, where marketers get distracted by the latest trends and technologies without a clear strategy. The host provides examples of shiny object syndrome, such as the hype around non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and the use of flash technology in websites. The host also explores the potential pitfalls of relying too heavily on artificial intelligence (AI) in marketing, particularly for commercial realtors. Instead, the host emphasizes the importance of personalization, building relationships, and focusing on business goals and brand strategy.takeawaysShiny object syndrome in marketing refers to the tendency to get distracted by the latest trends and technologies without a clear strategy.Examples of shiny object syndrome include the hype around non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and the use of flash technology in websites.Relying too heavily on artificial intelligence (AI) in marketing, especially for commercial realtors, may not be effective as it lacks personalization and the human touch.Building relationships, focusing on business goals, and formulating a solid brand strategy are key to successful marketing.Building a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!Send us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!
Conquering Brand Beasts - Service Design: Designing the Customer Journey
Aug 26 2024
Conquering Brand Beasts - Service Design: Designing the Customer Journey
SummaryIn this episode, Jonathan and Thomas discuss service design and its importance in creating a seamless and enjoyable user experience. They start the episode with a discussion on branding stories, including the promotion of video games by companies like Chex and Captain Crunch. They then dive into the concept of service design, using examples from the banking industry and pizza delivery to illustrate how consistency and attention to detail can enhance the customer experience. They also touch on the shift from minimalism to maximalism in branding and the importance of adapting to new technologies and trends. In this conversation, Thomas discusses the importance of service design and the impact it has on the customer experience. He shares personal anecdotes about his experiences with service providers and highlights the need for consistency and clear communication. The conversation emphasizes the need for businesses to understand their customers' journey and create a seamless and enjoyable experience at every touchpoint. Examples from companies like Mountain Equipment Co-op and Canada Goose demonstrate how service design can be implemented effectively. The conversation concludes with a reminder to set realistic expectations and deliver on them to ensure a positive customer experience.TakeawaysService design involves designing the customer experience across all touchpoints to ensure consistency and satisfaction.Consistency in branding and service delivery is crucial for building trust and loyalty with customers.Service design extends beyond the service itself and includes elements like product design and packaging.Brands need to adapt to new technologies and trends to stay relevant and engage with customers.The shift from minimalism to maximalism in branding reflects changing consumer preferences and the need to stand out in a crowded marketplace. Service design plays a crucial role in shaping the customer experience.Consistency and clear communication are essential for a positive customer experience.Understanding the customer journey and creating a seamless experience at every touchpoint is key.Examples from companies like Mountain Equipment Co-op and Canada Goose demonstrate effective service design.Setting realistic expectations and delivering on them is vital for customer satisfaction.Building a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!Send us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!
Yips, Pips, and Yaps - Embracing a Unique Brand Position
Aug 12 2024
Yips, Pips, and Yaps - Embracing a Unique Brand Position
Building a small business community for small businesses. Sharing experiences, information and stories to help grow the community. New episodes posted every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here! SummaryIn this episode, Thomas discusses the importance of bravery and taking risks in building a brand. He emphasizes the need to differentiate oneself from competitors and avoid becoming a commodity. Thomas provides examples of companies like Porter Airlines and Karen's Diner that have successfully embraced unique brand positions. He also highlights the importance of persistence and long-term vision in branding. Thomas concludes by emphasizing the need to invest in your brand and have the courage to take a stand.TakeawaysBravery and taking risks are essential in building a brand.Differentiating yourself from competitors is crucial to avoid becoming a commodity.Persistence and long-term vision are key to branding success.Investing in your brand gives your business a specific voice and direction.Send us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!
Conquering Brand Beasts - Optimising Your Copywriting. Write For People, With SEO In Mind.
Aug 5 2024
Conquering Brand Beasts - Optimising Your Copywriting. Write For People, With SEO In Mind.
SummaryIn this conversation, Thomas and Jonathan discuss the importance of copywriting for small businesses. They highlight the need to start with understanding your brand, audience, and value proposition. They emphasize the importance of storytelling and connecting with customers on an emotional level. They also discuss the role of SEO, landing pages, and email sequencing in effective copywriting. In this conversation, Thomas and John discuss various aspects of copywriting for small businesses. They cover topics such as email sequencing, writing articles and social media posts, SEO, newsletters, and landing pages. They emphasize the importance of understanding your audience and speaking directly to them, as well as continuing the conversation and directing it towards the desired action. They also mention the use of empathy in copywriting and the need for continuity between ads and landing pages.Keywordscopywriting, small business, brand, audience, value proposition, storytelling, emotional connection, SEO, landing pages, email sequencing, copywriting, small business, email sequencing, articles, social media, SEO, newsletters, landing pages, audience, empathy, continuityTakeawaysStart with understanding your brand, audience, and value propositionTell a compelling story that connects with customers on an emotional levelConsider SEO and landing pages to optimize your websiteUse email sequencing to build one-on-one relationships with customers Understand your audience and speak directly to them in your copywriting.Continuously engage with your audience through email sequencing, newsletters, and social media posts.Use SEO tools to identify trending topics and keywords to incorporate into your articles.Create landing pages that continue the conversation from your ads and direct the audience towards the desired action.Empathy is important in copywriting to understand and address the pain points of your audience.Building a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!Send us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!
Yips, Pips, and Yaps - The Koyoti Logo: From Concept to Creation
Jul 29 2024
Yips, Pips, and Yaps - The Koyoti Logo: From Concept to Creation
SummaryIn this episode, Thomas discusses the backstory of how Coyote came up with their logo. Initially, Coyote was intended to be a holding company, but eventually became a marketing agency. Thomas worked with a designer friend to develop the logo, focusing on the visualization of the name and the animal. The final logo depicts a coyote howling at a full moon, symbolizing ambition and the pursuit of goals. Thomas also emphasizes the importance of going on a brand journey before creating a logo.Keywordslogo, brand strategy, visualization, name, animal, folklore, font, design concepts, moon, ambition, pursuit, clearing, subtlety, depth, messaging, imagery, brand journeyTakeawaysThe development of a logo should be based on a brand strategy and a brand journey.Consider the visualization of the name and the animal when creating a logo.A logo should reflect the ambition and pursuit of goals.Pay attention to subtlety, depth, and visual appeal in a logo design.Regularly evaluate and update the font usage of a logo.Going on a brand journey before creating a logo can help ensure it reflects the brand.Building a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!Send us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!
Yips, Pips, and Yaps - Deciding On Koyoti As A Name
Jul 15 2024
Yips, Pips, and Yaps - Deciding On Koyoti As A Name
SummaryIn this episode, Thomas discusses how the name Coyote was chosen for the company. He explains that his fascination with the character of Coyote in North American folklore and his love for Warner Brothers' Wile E. Coyote influenced the decision. Thomas also highlights the attributes of coyotes that align with the values of small business owners, such as persistence, adaptability, courage, and collaboration. He concludes by explaining the significance of the spelling 'K-O-Y-O-T-I' and how it reflects his multicultural background.KeywordsCoyote, company name, folklore, mythology, small business, persistence, adaptability, courage, collaboration, multiculturalTakeawaysChoosing a company name that reflects your values and interests can be meaningful and impactful.Coyotes possess attributes that small business owners should strive to emulate, such as persistence, adaptability, courage, and collaboration.The spelling of a company name can be used to reflect personal identity and cultural background.Understanding the origins and symbolism behind a company name can deepen its significance.Building a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!Send us a textPlease help the humanitarian efforts regarding the current conflict in Ukraine. Please help by donating, or by spreading the word.For more information, please click hereBuilding a small business community for small business. Sharing experiences, information, stories, and tips to help grow the community. New Episodes every Monday!For more information about Koyoti, please visit: www.koyoti.comHave questions or comments about what we're doing? Email us here!