Why I Social

Aaron Kilby is Director of Marketing and Business Development at Artisan Colour. He’s also the creator of #Mediachat - one of the most popular and longest running Twitterchats on-going. At the time we recorded, he was getting ready to host Randi Zuckerberg, the sister of Facebook creator Mark Zuckerberg. It’s important to note (since we talked about so many great things we never got around to it) that Aaron is well-known for his love of bacon. His experience in the graphic design industry, however, is often not discussed and it was a true joy to learn about where his passion for the industry came from in this episode. This Week On Why I Social, Aaron and I talk about: The story behind #mediachat (enter #pantschat) Getting into graphic design The power of fonts Get To Know Aaron Twitter: @Kilby76 As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. Y

For the first time in Why I Social history, this week's podcast features not one, but two guests! Cody and Katie Stevenson.  The pair is a married couple who I've had the pleasure of getting to know (as well as host at my house for a BBQ earlier this summer). They're perhaps best known for some of their great travel stories which caught my attention early on.  Both are proficient in social media as a relationship building platform. Most recently, Cody launched his own podcast (Big Rigs and Pancakes) which focuses on conversations and getting to know people. It's the anti-social, Why I Social, and it's fantastic.  This Week On Why I Social, Cody, Katie and I talk about: Starting a podcast Traveling across the country ...and of course, how they met. Get To Know Cody and Katie Twitter: @TheCodyVision (Cody) @KatieS914 (Katie) @brppodcast (Podcast) As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you’re also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Ra

Albert Qian (@albertqian) is Global Marketing and Communications Manager at Ingram Micro located in Silicon Valley. His list of experiences and jobs showcase his unique set of skills and his networking capabilities. I first encountered Albert while being a guest on MCEOTalk (on the same episode as him) and immediately found myself fascinated by what he was doing. His work, in particular on a project called Albert's List, truly put other people first. It was an innovative use of social media that deserved attention. Quite frankly, I wanted to learn more. On this episode of Why I Social, you'll learn more along with me. This Week On Why I Social, Amanda and I talk about: How failure led to success Living in the Silicon Valley Albert's List Get To Know Albert Twitter: @albertqian As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. You can also follow

Amanda Pensack (@RoxyDigital) is marketing director at ECM Solutions in North Carolina. Her career includes stints as a social media and digital producer for WSOC-TV as well as founder of Roxy Digital - to name a few. She's a real go-getter who's career focus should take her a long way. Perhaps what interested me most about Amanda is her involvement with Social Roadtrip - which was also mentioned on episode 29 with Joel Renner - and her passion for connecting people. Her energy and interest in helping others build relationship immediately drew my attention.  This Week On Why I Social, Amanda and I talk about: Improv acting Being a millennial Social Roadtrip As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. You can also follow the podcast on Twitter at @WhyISocial. Thank you to BenjoBeats (@BenjoBeats) and Jeff Januszek (@JeffJanuszek) for their cont

A few weeks ago, I began asking you, the listener to tell me your favorite #WhyISocial moment. Just three weeks later, I've put together a collection of all the moments you included (or as many of them as I could). It wasn't enough, however, to include just your favorite moments. I wanted to include YOU. Each moment is introduced to you by the person whom suggested it so you'll hear first-hand why it's been recommended! So, sit back and enjoy YOUR favorite moments and if yours isn't included take a moment to use #WhyISocial to share it after the podcast is over. Fan Favorites include: Casie Shimansky Carlos Gil Tim McDonald Ted Rubin As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. You can also follow the podcast on Twitter at @WhyISocial. Thank you to BenjoBeats (@BenjoBeats) and Jeff Januszek (@JeffJanuszek) for their contributions (music and vo

Working in career services can offer a range of challenges. Just because you work in career services, however, doesn't mean you work on resumes all day. Joel Renner is Manager, Digital Strategy and Career Services at George Washington University. Joel has managed social media for some time, but did not have his own personal account until recently. When he began to tweet, I notice him almost immediately. In particular, his methodology of growing his personal brand while starting his personal Twitter account was unique and has been highly successful. Additionally, he has spent the bulk of his career in higher education, but on the podcast he shares his insights into his world which includes cooking, soccer and his passion for connecting people This week on Why I Social, Joel and I talk about Living in Alaska Working in higher education and career services His Twitter connection process And much, much more... Connect with Joel Twitter (Personal): @JoelRRenner As always, share YOUR thoughts on the late

When you think of the social media terminology "Human to Human", you think of Bryan Kramer. Bryan is the author of “There is No B2B or B2C: It’s Human to Human #H2H” and "Shareology". I've had the pleasure of chatting with Bryan here or there in the past two years on Twitter. My conversation with him on this week's episode was further proof that Bryan is a CEO who practices what he preaches. From TED Talks to Keynote address, Bryan has established himself as a leader in the science of sharing. To be honest, he's quite frankly just a fun guy to talk with. This week on Why I Social, Bryan and I talk about How one prepares for a TED Talk The difference between writing your first and second book ...and much much more Connect with Bryan Twitter (Personal): @bryankramer Bryan's Blog: http://www.bryankramer.com/ Amazon Author Page As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when

Video has been a popular topic as of late. With the rise of streaming video, it seems like you can't avoid the topic. Amy Schmittauer knows video and runs Savvy Sexy Social with the goal of empowering brands to embrace their personality and share it with the world!   Her insights on branding, marketing and social media caught my attention following an episode of #MCEOTalk.  Get to know Amy as we discuss the challenges of running an event, creating a great video and memes!  Connect with Amy Twitter (Personal): @schmittastic Twitter (YouTube Channel): @savvysexysocial YouTube: SavvySexySocial  As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial.  Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. You can also follow the podcast on Twitter at @WhyISocial. Thank you to BenjoBeats (@BenjoBeats) and Jeff Januszek (@JeffJanuszek) for their contributions (music and voiceover) to the podcast.

Sometimes you connect with someone on social media and instantly connect. That was the case when I met Casie (that's Kay-Cee) Shimansky. It could have been our shared fandom of comics. It may have been our passion for social media. It is possibly the fact that we both support many of the same causes.  Here's what else you should know. Casie has worked in social media for most of her career. She's an empowered individual who is making a difference in the world. In particular, her work with the St. Baldrick's Foundation is inspiring.  Get to know Casie as we discuss working in theme parks, Social Shake-up 2015 and girl geekdom.  Note: We also discuss pizza because she's from New Jersey originally and by audience request are required to continue the New York versus Chicago pizza debate.  Connect with Casie Twitter: @TheNameIsCasie As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial.  Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates w

You name the industry and there's a good chance Gary J. Nix has worked in it. After 18+ years in traditional and digital marketing, he's currently serves as Chief Strategy Officer for bdot.  My first opportunity to finally meet Gary in person came at this year's Social Media Week in New York City. He's a member of Social Media United Nations (much like previous guests Sid Hassim and Amy Vernon) and all-around good guy (with a side of snark).  Get to know Gary as we discuss buzzwords, sports logos and the growth of Social Media Week.  Connect with Gary Twitter: @Mr_McFly As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. You can also follow the podcast on Twitter at @WhyISocial. Thank you to BenjoBeats (@BenjoBeats) and Jeff Januszek (@JeffJanuszek) for their contributions (music and voiceover) to the podcast.

A few weeks ago when I initially recorded this episode, Sherrie Rohde had just started a new job as Magento's Community Manager. This week, she just completed her move for that same position. It's truly an honor to help celebrate her success by sharing it with the Why I Social community.  Sherrie first caught my attention through her amazing work with My Community Manager and #CMGRHangout (every Friday on Twitter and Google Hangouts).  Get to know Sherrie as we discuss Myers-Briggs, My Community Manager and tabletop gaming! Connect with Sherrie Twitter: @SherrieRohde As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. You can also follow the podcast on Twitter at @WhyISocial. Thank you to BenjoBeats (@BenjoBeats) and Jeff Januszek (@JeffJanuszek) for their contributions (music and voiceover) to the podcast.

It's fair to say if you're reading this text right now, it's more than likely you've worked with a product from a company that Guy Kawasaki has worked for or with. With BA from Stanford and an MBA from UCLA, Guy has been a leader in the social media world for a long-time. Whether you've read one of his books or heard him speak at one of his many keynotes, it's hard to think of a social media world that doesn't include him. He's also a true joy to speak with and a man willing to give up an hour of his time to talk to Why I Social - for which I am naturally grateful. Get to know Guy as we discuss working at Apple, keynote speaking and the crazy stuff kids say. Connect with Guy Twitter: @GuyKawasaki Webpage: GuyKawasaki.com As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. You can also follow the podcast on Twitter at @WhyISocial. Thank you to Benjo

What do mechanical engineering degrees and yo-yos have in common? Chris Mikulin! He's the owner of CLWY, a high end yo-yo company, based in Canada. He's also fresh off an appearance on the Social Pros Podcast.  From Snapchat to Twitter, Chris has been successful in creating great digital strategy and building a successful business based on the power of community. He's also one of the nicest people you'll probably ever meet. One conversation with him and I promise you that you will agree.  Get to know Chris as we discuss our yo-yos, meeting Bryan Kramer and performing at Social Media Marketing World. Connect with Chris on Twitter: @ChrisMikulin As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. You can also follow the podcast on Twitter at @WhyISocial. Thank you to BenjoBeats (@BenjoBeats) and Jeff Januszek (@JeffJanuszek) for their contributions (musi

When I first met Vincenzo Landino on Twitter, I felt like there was something to him. I couldn't put my finger on it. It wasn't long after that I invited him to help me out here or there on a little side project of mine called Why I Social. Since first meeting Vincenzo, he's done some very cool things. He's become the host of #MCEOTalk and in many rights, a bit of a Meerkat celebrity. One thing is for sure - his personality and willingness to help others will stands out.  Get to know Vincenzo as we discuss our Why U Social project, getting involved with MillennialCEO and epic karaoke. Connect with Vincenzo on Twitter: @VincenzoLandino As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. You can also follow the podcast on Twitter at @WhyISocial. Thank you to BenjoBeats (@BenjoBeats) and Jeff Januszek (@JeffJanuszek) for their contributions (music and voi

Britt Michaelian launched the Mass Amplify Podcast around the same time that Why I Social went live. Both podcasts hit the new and notable at the same time. Both myself and Britt conversed quite a bit about podcasting and supported one another's podcast. Basically, this podcast collaboration is long-overdue. Last Thursday, Britt released an episode of the Mass Amplify Podcast that featured me. Today, that conversation continues and instead focuses on the founder of Mass Amplify herself. Get to know Britt as we discuss podcasting, writing and having her own profile on IMDB.

Ted Coine is the CMO of Meddle and his previous experiences in leadership and entrepreneurial positions throughout his career make him someone I've long desired to have on the show. He's also co-author of "A World Gone Social" with previous Why I Social guest Mark Babbitt.  Get to know Ted, as we discuss co-writing "A World Gone Social", joining Meddle.it and English as a Second Language. Note: Starting today, every Tuesday will be the day new episodes go live. In weeks that include two episodes, you'll get a new episode on Tuesday and Friday.  Connect with Ted on Twitter: @TedCoine As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. You can also follow the podcast on Twitter at @WhyISocial. Thank you to BenjoBeats (@BenjoBeats) and Jeff Januszek (@JeffJanuszek) for their contributions (music and voiceover) to the podcast.

One word to describe Melany Berger? According to her blog that word is snarky. That same blog, MelanysGuydlines.com, is up for a Shorty Award the day many may be listening to this episode (4/2015). In all fairness, she already won the Vox Populi vote for most fan votes for the blogger category - so she's off to a great start.  Melany is also an Advisory Board member at the University of Arizona for the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences and enjoys teaching students about the future of social media and how they can turn social media influence into a profession. My introduction to Melany came in a recent episode of Social Hangout. What stood out to me immediately was the level of energy she brings to any conversation. It's safe to say she brought that to Why I Social.  Get to know Melany as we discuss blogging, being a Shorty award finalist and annoyance of before and after fitness photos on Instagram. 

I've had the pleasure of knowing Alexandra Shinert for over 5+ years starting with her time as a student at King's College in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. In recent years, the way she has used social media has impressed me as she's built relationships and connections the way every student should.  As she approaches graduation from New York University with a Master of Arts Degree in Media, Culture and Communication, I felt it was finally time to share her with my audience. Make no mistake, this episode is very personal to me. I hope you are as impressed with Alexandra as I am.  Get to know Alex as we discuss television as a means of storytelling, the value of the mentor/mentee relationship and Paterson, NJ.  Connect with Alexandra on Twitter: @AShinert As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. You can also follow the podcast on Twitter at @WhyIS

Gregory Galant the the co-creator and executive producer of The Shorty Awards honoring the best of social media. Greg’s also the cofounder and CEO of Muck Rack, a digital PR and journalism platform. I had the pleasure of meeting Greg this past February at Social Media Week (NYC) and was impressed not only by his knowledge, but his passion for social media. In truth, I remain jealous of his status as a member of the Twitter first name club.  Get to know Greg as we discuss the challenges of being an entrepreneur, the story behind the creation of the Shorty Awards and building his first web site (and includes a mention of Prodigy Internet).  Connect with Greg on Twitter: @Gregory As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. You can also follow the podcast on Twitter at @WhyISocial. Thank you to BenjoBeats (@BenjoBeats) and Jeff Januszek (@JeffJanusz

Amy Vernon spent over 20 years of her career in the journalism field before (as her LinkedIn profile describes so well) the Great Newspaper Culling of 2008. She seamlessly integrated herself into the digital age and has been a leader in the social media industry since.  Get to know Amy as we discuss the evolution of journalism, blogging and of course, bacon.  Connect with Amy on Twitter: @AmyVernon As always, share YOUR thoughts on the latest episode using #WhyISocial. Of course, you're also invited to subscribe on iTunes or Stitcher Radio if you'd like to get updates when the latest episode is live. You can also follow the podcast on Twitter at @WhyISocial. Thank you to BenjoBeats (@BenjoBeats) and Jeff Januszek (@JeffJanuszek) for their contributions (music and voiceover) to the podcast.