Branding, Storytelling & Authenticity with Laura L. Benn


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Feb 17 2025 75 mins  

In this engaging conversation, Laura shares her journey from aspiring journalist to successful photographer and brand strategist.

She discusses the importance of storytelling, authenticity, and community in branding, as well as the challenges of navigating social media and burnout.

Laura emphasizes the need for personal values in branding and the significance of maintaining a human connection in an increasingly automated world.

The discussion also touches on the joy of creative pursuits and the role of imagination in building a unique brand experience.

Takeaways

  • Laura transitioned from journalism to photography after corporate layoffs.

  • She emphasizes the importance of brand strategy in creating impactful messages.

  • Social media can be both a useful tool and a source of burnout.

  • Storytelling is a fundamental aspect of human connection and branding.

  • Brand building is akin to world building, allowing for creativity and uniqueness.

  • Authenticity is crucial in branding; imitation does not lead to success.

  • Community can be small and still meaningful; it doesn't have to be large.

  • Privacy is important for business owners; not everything needs to be public.

  • Imagination is a powerful tool in the creative process.

  • Finding joy in creative pursuits is essential for fulfillment.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Laura's Journey

05:04 From Journalism to Photography: A Career Shift

07:52 The Power of Spite: Building Gooseberry Studios

10:36 Brand Strategy: Merging Storytelling and Visuals

13:18 Navigating Social Media: The Double-Edged Sword

16:11 The Art of Storytelling in Brand Building

18:53 Finding Your Unique Brand Voice

21:32 Desires vs. Shoulds: The Entrepreneurial Dilemma

24:19 Crafting a Memorable Brand Experience

32:46 The Impact of a Smaller Audience

34:34 Building a Unique Brand Ecosystem

36:24 The Creative Process of Brand Strategy

39:03 Clarifying Brand Identity and Boundaries

41:42 The Importance of Privacy in Personal Branding

45:01 Navigating Personal Values vs. Brand Values

47:00 Attracting the Right Audience

50:26 Reconnecting with Humanity in Branding

56:12 The Role of Automation and AI in Business

59:37 Finding Inspiration in Offline Activities

01:01:23 The Art of Conversation and Connection

01:04:47 Rediscovering Joy Through Reading and Hobbies

01:08:31 Personal Inspirations and Community Connections

01:10:08 Advice for Navigating Uncertainty

01:11:27 Embracing Imagination and Creativity

Stay Wild.

Check out the Collective Creator Academy: https://join.the-wild-collective.com/rebel-tribe-facilitator1709663546309

Follow Laura L. Benn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gooseberrystudios/

Explore more: Visit her website →: https://www.gooseberrystudios.com/

Get exclusive insights: Join her newsletter →: https://thegooseberryreview.substack.com/

Grab her book: [Beautiful Everydays: A Guide to Living in the Here and Now] → : https://www.indigo.ca/en-ca/beautiful-everydays-a-guide-to-living-in-the-here-and-now/9781738214709.html

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