In this thought-provoking episode of the Brand Retro Podcast, we’re joined by Emma Donovan, Co-Founder and Brand Strategist at Dapper, to delve into the heart and soul of branding. Our conversation illuminates the critical importance of infusing personal essence into our brands, highlighting how the authenticity and passion of the creators shape and define a brand’s identity. Emma shares her expert insights on cultivating brands that resonate deeply with audiences by embracing the unique stories and values of the people behind them. We explore the journey of brand creation, from conceptualization to execution, and how embracing authenticity leads to a genuinely authentic experience for both the brand and its audience. If you’re seeking to understand the dynamics of creating a brand that truly reflects its creators and stands out in today’s crowded marketplace, this episode with Emma Donovan offers invaluable guidance and inspiration on navigating the path to authenticity and success.
Who’s the Guest?
Emma Donovan is a dynamic professional with over 15 years of expertise in brand strategy, content writing, and entrepreneurship. Her keen eye for identifying unique opportunities has been a cornerstone of her entrepreneurial journey, demonstrated by her ventures across diverse and innovative projects. In 2010, she launched a pop-up backpackers’ hostel for the FIFA World Cup in South Africa, showcasing her ability to tap into timely opportunities with creativity and flair. By 2014, Emma had co-founded Yellow Door Collective, a marketing and events agency, further solidifying her role as a versatile entrepreneur. Her latest venture, Dapper, co-founded in March 2021, serves as a brand studio with a keen focus on the human experience in brand development.
Highlights
03:11 Emma’s company’s values: To cultivate joy which should come from an authentic energy 06:05 Dapper’s offerings: A six-month process based on self-discovery and personal branding and a three-month online course on global accessibility
09:33 Why having a compelling story adds value to the brand and underlines the difficulty, but importance, of finding a singular brand tone in companies with multiple co-founders
13:31 How important it is to give clients breathing space and time to reflect
18:47 Why some clients are reluctant to “buy in”
20:47 Learning from successful influencers and adapting the lessons to your personal journey, to gain an advantage and create their brand from an authentic place.
22:38 The importance of breaking down advice and applying only what is beneficial to avoid disrupting the business
23:26 Why not being able to apply all sections of an advice does not discredit the source, but rather, it just might not apply to your particular circumstance at the time
24:46 Brand comes before marketing and setting the foundation right would make everything else fall in place
Episode Resources
Connect with Mike Brevik:
Connect with Emma Donovan
- https://becomedapper.com/
- https://www.instagram.com/become.dapper/
- https://www.linkedin.com/company/becomedapper
Subscribe, Share and Review
To get the next episode subscribe with your favorite podcast player.
- Subscribe with Apple Podcasts
- Follow on Spotify
Leave a review on Apple Podcasts