Your humanity is your superpower—people connect deeply with your authentic, imperfect self. So don’t wait to be perfect; start showing up, sharing your story, and watch your brand magic unfold.
– Beverly Cornell
In today’s fast-paced digital world, carving out a clear and authentic brand presence can feel overwhelming and confusing. Many entrepreneurs and creatives struggle with how to consistently show up in a way that truly reflects their unique magic and resonates with their ideal audience. In this insightful interview, we dive deep into the art and science of brand clarity, consistency, and connection. Our guest shares powerful strategies for building content that not only tells your story but also creates meaningful engagement with your community. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to sharpen your messaging, this conversation offers practical advice and inspiring encouragement to help you confidently own your space and grow your business with intention.
From defining your niche and content pillars to leveraging client testimonials and embracing imperfection, this interview covers the essential building blocks for creating a magnetic brand that stands the test of time. You’ll discover why showing up authentically—cringy videos and all—is actually your secret weapon to building trust and deeper connections. Plus, you’ll learn actionable tips to help you overcome perfectionism, stay consistent, and keep your momentum going without burning out. Get ready to be inspired, empowered, and equipped to take bold steps forward in your brand journey.
Thank you so much for joining us! Our readers would love to get to know you a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your backstory and how you came to focus on brand clarity for entrepreneurs?
Thank you so much for having me! My journey into brand clarity and coaching started out of a deep curiosity about how people express themselves and their businesses authentically. Early in my career, I worked with many entrepreneurs who were brilliant at what they did but struggled to clearly communicate their value and stand out in a crowded market. I noticed that no matter how talented or passionate these people were, they often felt overwhelmed, confused, or stuck trying to figure out how to show up consistently online in a way that felt true to them. This inspired me to dive into branding and marketing with a focus on clarity—not just flashy marketing tactics, but deep clarity around who you are, who you serve, and how you want to be known. That clarity, I realized, is the foundation for sustainable business growth. I created Wickedly Branded to help entrepreneurs cut through the noise, find their unique voice, and build momentum by owning their message with confidence and consistency. It’s about empowering people to tell their story in a way that feels natural and meaningful, so they attract the right clients and grow their business without burning out or losing themselves.
For people who are brand new to content creation, what would you say to someone who feels stuck on what to say or how to even get started, especially when video feels intimidating?
This is such a common challenge, and I want to emphasize that feeling stuck or unsure is completely normal. When you’re new to content creation, especially video, it can feel like you’re putting yourself under a microscope. My first advice is to shift your mindset from “I have to be perfect” to “I have something valuable to share.” The best place to start is by listening carefully to the conversations you’re already having with your clients or your target audience. What questions keep coming up? What problems are people facing? Those questions are your content goldmine because they come directly from real human needs and curiosities. For example, if a client asks you “How do I get started with yoga?” or “What’s the best way to manage stress?” those are perfect topics to turn into posts or videos. You don’t have to invent new content from scratch — lean into what’s already happening naturally in your business conversations. Also, pick one platform where you feel most comfortable or where your ideal clients hang out. Commit to posting there consistently. Maybe it’s once a week to start. Over time, you’ll build confidence, and those videos will feel less intimidating because you’re speaking directly to people you understand deeply.
Many entrepreneurs are scared of looking awkward or “cringy” on camera. How do you help people overcome that fear and get comfortable with imperfection?
That fear of being “cringy” or awkward on camera is something I hear a lot, and I’ve been there too! I still have my very first social media video saved, and honestly, it’s stiff and a little embarrassing to watch now. But here’s the truth: nobody starts out polished and perfect. Even the biggest influencers and creators you admire had their “first” videos, which were rough around the edges. The key is to embrace those early moments as essential steps in your growth, not failures. Perfectionism can be a huge block—it keeps you frozen instead of moving forward. Your audience doesn’t expect you to be flawless; they want real connection. When you show your humanity — your quirks, your stumbles, your “cringy” moments — people relate to you on a deeper level. That vulnerability builds trust. I often encourage entrepreneurs to lean into the awkwardness as part of their authentic story. Over time, as you practice, you become more natural, more conversational, and your videos feel more like chatting with a friend rather than performing on stage.
When an entrepreneur wants to get clearer on how they want to be known and what their core brand messaging should be, what practical steps do you recommend?
One of the most powerful and often overlooked tools for clarity is your testimonials and client feedback. These are real expressions from people who’ve experienced your work firsthand, and they reveal the true impact and transformation you offer. If you don’t have testimonials yet, I recommend starting to ask for them in a simple, strategic way. Sometimes clients don’t know how to word their feedback, so you can help by drafting something for them based on their comments and sending it for their approval. This makes it super easy for them and increases the likelihood they’ll say yes. Once you gather enough testimonials, review them closely and look for patterns—common phrases, words, or themes that pop up repeatedly. That’s your window into how your audience perceives you and what matters most to them. Those recurring themes become the heart of your messaging and help you define your content pillars. When you build your content strategy around what your clients value most, your messaging feels more authentic and impactful.
Can you explain what content pillars are, and how they support entrepreneurs in building a consistent and clear brand message?
Absolutely. Content pillars are like the core themes or categories that support your entire content strategy. Think of them as the pillars holding up a building—they give structure and focus to your messaging. These pillars are closely tied to your niche and the specific problems you solve. For instance, if you’re a wellness coach, your content pillars might include mindset shifts, nutrition tips, client success stories, and lifestyle habits. Each piece of content you create fits into one of these pillars, ensuring that your messaging remains consistent and targeted. This clarity helps your audience know what to expect from you and builds trust because your content feels cohesive, not random or scattered. Having content pillars also makes content creation less overwhelming because you always have a framework for what to talk about next. It’s easier to plan your posts and stay on brand.
Many entrepreneurs feel overwhelmed by the pressure to be everywhere on social media and post all the time. What do you suggest for managing this overwhelm?
This is a huge issue! So much advice out there pushes entrepreneurs to be on every platform, post multiple times a day, and constantly hustle. But the truth is, trying to do everything at once is exhausting and often leads to burnout and inconsistent results. My advice is to narrow your focus—choose one social media platform where your ideal clients naturally spend their time and focus your energy there. Own that platform with clear, consistent messaging, and build momentum over time. When you concentrate your efforts, you become an expert and a trusted voice in your niche on that platform. This focused approach reduces overwhelm, makes your marketing more manageable, and lets you build deeper connections. Once you have momentum on one platform, expanding to others becomes easier and more effective.
How can entrepreneurs maintain consistency in content creation without feeling burnt out?
Consistency is one of the biggest struggles for entrepreneurs, but it doesn’t have to mean daily posts or an exhausting content schedule. The key is to find a rhythm that works for you and your lifestyle—maybe that’s posting once a week or every few days. The important part is to show up regularly over time, not to overwhelm yourself trying to keep up with every new trend. Batch content creation can be a game changer—set aside time to create several posts or videos at once so you’re not scrambling every day. Using your content pillars makes planning much easier because you have clear themes to pull from. Also, give yourself permission to take breaks without guilt. Consistency is a marathon, not a sprint, so pacing yourself and self-care are essential for sustainable growth.
What role does storytelling play in effective branding, and how can entrepreneurs incorporate storytelling into their content?
Storytelling is the emotional heart of branding. People don’t just buy products or services—they buy the feelings and transformations those things represent. When you share your story—whether it’s your personal journey, the obstacles you’ve overcome, or your clients’ successes—you create a connection that goes beyond features and facts. Stories humanize your brand and make you relatable. Entrepreneurs can weave storytelling into their content by sharing client experiences, lessons learned, moments of breakthrough, or even day-to-day challenges. These stories don’t have to be long or elaborate—sometimes a quick anecdote can be incredibly powerful. When you tell stories authentically, your audience feels seen, heard, and understood, which builds trust and loyalty.
AI tools like ChatGPT are becoming popular. How can entrepreneurs use AI for content creation without losing their authentic voice?
AI tools are wonderful for brainstorming, drafting outlines, and generating content ideas, especially when you’re staring at a blank page. For instance, you can input your FAQs, testimonials, or content pillars into ChatGPT and ask it to suggest posts, captions, or blog outlines. This can save you a ton of time and spark creativity when you’re feeling stuck. However, it’s crucial to remember that AI is a tool, not a replacement for your authentic voice. Always personalize and edit AI-generated content to make sure it reflects your personality, values, and brand tone. The best use of AI is as a creative assistant that amplifies your unique voice, not dilutes it. This approach keeps your content genuine and aligned with who you are.
Sometimes entrepreneurs get stuck or unclear about what their next marketing move should be. What’s your advice to help them get unstuck?
When you feel stuck, the best approach is to simplify and refocus on the fundamentals. Get crystal clear on your ideal client, the problem you solve, and the core message you want to communicate. Then pick one platform and commit to showing up consistently there. Small, intentional actions—posting, engaging, listening—compound over time and lead to momentum. It’s important to choose progress over perfection and celebrate small wins along the way. Often, the feeling of being stuck comes from trying to do too much or chase shiny objects. When you get back to clarity and consistency, you’ll start to see your marketing unfold naturally and feel more manageable.
Can you explain the importance of “owning your square inch, and why it’s powerful?
“Owning your square inch” is about fully claiming your space—whether that’s on a social platform, in your niche, or within your own business mindset. It means showing up with intention and confidence in the space you’ve chosen rather than trying to stretch yourself thin or imitate others. When you own your square inch, you stop chasing external validation or trying to be everything to everyone. Instead, you focus on your unique strengths and the audience you’re best suited to serve. This ownership creates a foundation of stability and momentum. You’re no longer pushing harder and harder trying to get noticed; instead, your clarity and authenticity naturally attract the right people and opportunities.
Many entrepreneurs struggle with self-doubt when it comes to putting themselves out there. How can they overcome this mental barrier?
Self-doubt is one of the biggest hurdles, and it’s completely normal to experience it. What’s important is not letting self-doubt stop you from taking action. One helpful mindset shift is to view every piece of content or every step you take as practice—a way to learn and grow, not a test you must pass perfectly. Also, remind yourself why you started your business in the first place and who you want to help. Your message matters, and there are people out there who need what you offer. Surround yourself with a supportive community or accountability partner who can encourage you and remind you of your worth when you’re feeling low. Celebrate the courage it takes to show up, even when you feel scared. Confidence grows through doing, not waiting for perfect conditions.
How do you help entrepreneurs balance authenticity with professionalism in their branding?
Authenticity and professionalism aren’t mutually exclusive—they actually complement each other beautifully when balanced well. I help entrepreneurs understand that being authentic means showing up as their true selves, including their values, quirks, and unique perspective, while professionalism means delivering their message clearly, respectfully, and with consistent quality. It’s about being real without oversharing or losing focus. For example, you can be warm and personable in your videos or posts but still keep your content well-structured and aligned with your business goals. Authenticity builds trust and emotional connection, while professionalism builds credibility and respect. When those two are in harmony, entrepreneurs attract clients who resonate deeply and also take their work seriously. It’s a delicate balance, but once you find your own version of it, your brand feels both relatable and trustworthy.
What are some common mistakes you see entrepreneurs make when trying to build their personal brand, and how can they avoid them?
One of the biggest mistakes I see is entrepreneurs trying to be everything to everyone. This lack of focus dilutes their message and makes it harder for people to understand what they stand for or how they can help. Another common error is inconsistent posting or frequently switching content topics, which confuses the audience and undermines trust. Many also fall into the trap of copying others’ styles or content instead of embracing their own unique voice, which leads to burnout and inauthenticity. To avoid these pitfalls, I recommend starting with clarity around your niche and ideal client, committing to a clear set of content pillars, and creating a realistic content schedule you can maintain. Also, don’t be afraid to experiment and find your authentic voice—your audience will appreciate your genuine approach more than a perfect imitation of someone else. Finally, track your engagement and feedback to learn what resonates best and refine your strategy accordingly.
How has your own brand and content strategy evolved since you started Wickedly Branded?
When I first started Wickedly Branded, I focused heavily on producing a high volume of content, trying to cover every topic related to branding and marketing. Over time, I realized that less is more—focusing on a few core themes that truly reflected my passion and expertise allowed me to connect more deeply with my ideal clients. I also learned the power of storytelling and vulnerability, which wasn’t natural for me at first, but became a game changer in building authentic relationships. My content shifted from being primarily informational to being more conversational and community-focused. Another big evolution was embracing video content despite my initial discomfort—once I allowed myself to be imperfect on camera, I saw how powerful video was for connection and trust-building. Overall, my brand became more focused, consistent, and aligned with my personal values, which has helped me build momentum and make a bigger impact.
How can our readers further follow your work online?
The best way to follow my work is on Instagram at @wickedlybranded and through my website wickedlybranded.com, where I share lots of free resources and tips on brand clarity and content creation. I also offer workshops and coaching programs designed specifically for entrepreneurs who want to build authentic momentum and connect deeply with their audience. My goal is to support people who are ready to own their brand story with confidence and clarity. I’d love to connect with your readers and help them take bold steps forward in their business journeys!
Thank you so much for sharing all your incredible insights and wisdom with us today. It’s been such a pleasure having you here and learning from your experience.
Thank you! I really enjoyed our conversation. It’s always wonderful to dive deep into these topics and hopefully inspire others to find their clarity and confidence in their brand. I appreciate you having me. And to everyone listening, remember: own your magic and show up with intention. You’ve got this!
