Archives: Episodes

This is the second of three clips I’ve made from my Up Next Charlie West presentation, target market and offer. I stress the importance of narrowing down your focus to a niche that aligns with your solutions. You should aim to address the shared problems of this niche group, as the more precise your message, the better it resonates.

I highlight the shift in marketing strategies from the past to the digital age. While earlier advertisements used to open with broad qualifiers like “Are you a homeowner in West Virginia?” digital marketing allows for more detailed and specific messaging, reducing the need for such broad strokes.

I also share a remarkable marketing story about Charles Atlas, who successfully tapped into the adolescent boys’ niche by addressing their common issue of bullying. He didn’t change his course; he just tailored his message to a specific target market, achieving remarkable success.

In essence, I emphasize that your marketing message should always answer the “What’s in it for me?” question for your audience. Keep your offers straightforward and solution-focused. Remember, simplicity often leads to marketing triumphs, and owning your niche can be the key to success in the ever-evolving world of marketing.

This is the first of thee clips I’ve made from my Up Next Charlie West presentation, my focus is purely strategic; I don’t delve into the tactical details, but I’m more than willing to address those individually.

First, I want to express my gratitude to this audience for committing their valuable time.

My background includes content creation, video production, and animation. I’ve ventured into various fields, from forensic animation to children’s programming, even landing content on PBS and showing at children’s festivals. In recent years, I’ve been involved in news and live sports production, serving as the marketing director at Advantage Technology.

Today, I make a bold promise: I’ll reveal unexpected marketing superpowers if you stay tuned. But to embark on this journey, you’ll need to shed preconceived notions, as I share high-level psychological tricks for running your marketing.

Remember this acronym, TOPP: Target, Offer, Position, and Perspective. These are the four essential elements I’ll get into. So, let’s journey together, challenge our assumptions, and explore the depths of marketing strategy.

In this episode of the Kanawha Valley Hustler, I talk to Dwayne Boggess. Dwayne is a commercial account executive at Optimum Business, and I as I asked him, “What’s your hustle, buddy?” Dwayne explains that his hustle revolves around taking care of businesses, ensuring they get the best Internet, phone, video, and email services possible. His goal? Keep them away from those dreaded 800 numbers.

We got a glimpse into the history of Optimum, from its Charter days to its merger with Altice USA. Dwayne clarified the difference between Optimum and Optimum Business, emphasizing the unique service requirements for businesses.

Our conversation shifted to the world of Internet service providers, where Dwayne stressed the importance of a secure network and excellent customer service. We touched on the art of sales, highlighting the significance of trust and relationships.

We also explored Dwayne’s side gig as a spirits broker, launching Wok of Vodka with Edgewater Spirits. It’s been quite the journey for him, from selling veggies by the roadside to becoming a seasoned sales pro and entrepreneur.

In wrapping up the episode, I couldn’t help but admire Dwayne’s journey, going from selling vegetables on the roadside to becoming a seasoned sales professional and a successful entrepreneur.

Until next time, this is Joe Justice, the Kanawha Valley Hustler, reminding you to hustle hard, hustle smart and hustle with a smile!

Recording the Kanawha Valley Hustlers podcast at the Goodwill of Kanawha Valley Blue Lot today, and it’s buzzing with energy. I’m joined by Jamon Schmidt, who handles content management at Goodwill of Kanawha Valley and Nicole Christian, President of the Charleston Area Alliance.

Jamon shares insights into event planning, emphasizing the thrill of graphic design work and the joy of seeing people enjoy their meticulously organized events. He admits that the anxiety leading up to an event is the downside, but they combat it by trusting their planning process and teamwork.

Next, I talk to Nicole Christian, president of the Charleston Area Alliance, who reveals their mission to drive economic and community development in the Kanawha Valley. She highlights their Small Business Incubator, which offers affordable spaces and resources to emerging entrepreneurs.

Nicole underscores the importance of community involvement, encouraging residents to shape the community’s future. She emphasizes that the community’s vitality relies on the active engagement of its members.

I’m reminded of two words: “invested” and “authentic.” They encapsulate the spirit of the Kanawha Valley, where people genuinely care and actively participate in the community’s development.

As I record this episode of Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I have a presentation tomorrow. I’m excited about it, and I hope you’ve signed up for it. It’s part of the Up Next Charlie West Professional Development series.

Today, I’m sharing some insights on public speaking. First off, knowing your subject inside out is essential. Confidence comes from being well-versed in your topic.

Stories are your secret weapon. People connect through stories, so have a handful ready to make your point relatable and engaging. Personal stories work wonders.

When you’re speaking to a crowd, don’t look at everyone at once. Speak to one person at a time. It eases nervousness and makes that personal connection.

Practice is crucial. Start small, speaking to a friend or colleague, and work your way up. You’ll learn by doing.

Lastly, don’t bore your audience with a PowerPoint full of bullet points or scripted note cards. Be spontaneous, know your subject, share compelling stories, and engage dynamically.

As I wrap up today, remember that becoming a proficient public speaker takes time and practice. So, hustle hard, hustle smart, and always wear that smile. Until next time, this is Joe Justice, the Kanawha Valley Hustler, signing off.

In this episode of Kanawha County Hustlers, recorded live at the Kanawha County Library, I talk with Jon Casto, an ICU nurse with a fascinating side business. Jon’s venture revolves around an all-natural stem cell activation technology. It’s a new frontier in health and wellness, and it’s been intriguing to learn about.

Jon shares stories of incredible transformations: from Crohn’s disease patients experiencing relief from bleeding to chronic knee pain vanishing within a week of patch use. These stories underscore the potential of blending healthcare expertise with cutting-edge technology.

The takeaway? The future of health and wellness is promising, and Jon’s work is a testament to that. If you’re curious about this technology, reach out to him at 304-389-2722.