The Futur

In this episode of The Futur Podcast, Chris Do talks with branding veteran David Brier, author of Brand Intervention and Rich Brand, Poor Brand. They explore what separates brands that thrive from those that fade—focusing on culture, generosity, and accountability over profit. David shares how “rich” brands create environments where creativity and collaboration flourish, while “poor” brands rely only on transactions and metrics. He also reflects on his decades in design, his friendship with Gary Vaynerchuk’s Chief Heart Officer Claude Silver, and how storytelling fuels brand differentiation. From defining purpose to sustaining passion over time, David reveals why lasting success comes from empowering others and leading with radical intention. Timestamps (00:00) Intro (02:04) Why some brands struggle (04:19) Culture’s role in brand growth (06:27) The art of differentiation explained (08:45) Rich vs. poor brand traits (11:32) Building teams that thrive (14:10) Staying inspired after decades (17:04) From il

Chris Do talks with executive coach Jule Kim about why so many professionals can’t land interviews—and how to change that. Jule breaks down how applicant-tracking systems work, the mistakes most people make with their resumes, and her PIRAI framework for telling clear, impactful stories in interviews. What You’ll Learn: How to make your resume pass automated filters Why “spray and pray” job applications don’t work The design mistakes that ruin creative resumes How to use Jule’s PIRAI framework to stand out in interviews Timestamps (00:00) - Intro (02:23) - How ATS systems filter out your resume (05:46) - Why the “spray and pray” approach fails (06:55) - Inside Amazon’s hiring loop and “Raising the Bar” (09:47) - Tailoring your resume like SEO for job descriptions (13:00) - The resume design mistakes that kill your chances (16:39) - Showing authenticity and personality in your application (19:58) - Real story – landing a VC job by leaning into uniqueness (31:28) - Replac

Chris Do talks with David J. Ebner, founder of Content Workshop, about how classic storytelling techniques can transform brand messaging. They unpack how structure, character, and emotion create content people remember—and why “show, don’t tell” still wins in modern marketing. David shares how to keep brand stories authentic, give more value than you take, and stay true to your core idea. They also dive into how AI is flooding the content space, and why human, values-driven storytelling will always stand out. Register for AdobeMax using the code FUTUR25 for $400 off a full pass.   See you there!⁠ https://max.adobe.com/?cgen=7RZ35VGK&mv=other⁠ Timestamps (00:00) Intro (02:36) Story structure in marketing (09:34) Short-form storytelling tips (13:34) Building character and change (16:36) Brand content framework (18:03) Value-first storytelling (21:41) Authentic voice over fear (33:17) Core values in content (39:19) AI and human creativity (49:09) Closing thoughts and takeaways Check out today’s guest

On this episode of The Futur Podcast, Chris Do talks with Scottish visual artist Craig Black about what it takes to reinvent yourself, embrace fear, and build a thriving creative career around your own unique style. Craig’s journey spans professional football, typography, and ultimately his signature “Acrylic Fusion” technique—a paint-pouring process that’s landed him collaborations with UEFA, FIFA, and Porsche. But behind the global recognition is a story about personal risk, self-initiated projects, and betting everything on his art. Together, Chris and Craig unpack: How to pivot when your first career path fails Why personal projects can lead to global clients The strategy behind launching at the right cultural moment Building a family-first lifestyle studio without compromise Using fear as a compass for growth This episode is a masterclass in reinvention for creatives, designers, and entrepreneurs who feel stuck and want to break through with their own voice. Register

In this episode, Chris Do speaks with Ranbir Arora about reaching product–market fit without lighting the budget on fire. They explore One Day’s “university for entrepreneurs,” how the mentor-led model works in practice, and why its accredited MBA is earned by building a real business—not cranking out essays. They also cover how to start by finding a real, painful problem, prove demand before building, and work through seven types of pivots—problem, solution, customer, price, funnel, channel, messaging—from biggest to smallest to diagnose what’s stuck. Listeners walk away with clear litmus tests and simple experiments to move faster and stop guessing. Timestamps: (00:00) Intro(14:40) Fully accredited MBA path.(15:32) Partner details & rigor.(20:33) Find deep customer pain.(20:57) Validate demand before MVP.(31:12) Quality and mentor capacity.(32:15) How mentors scale time.(33:42) Training, benchmarks, oversight.(38:47) Team, pedagogy, advisory board.(41:49) The seven pivot classes.(44:25) Funnels and cha

Why do clients hesitate even when they’ve already agreed on price? In this short solo episode, Chris Do breaks down the hidden reasons deals stall—and what you can do about it. You’ll learn how to ask better questions, prove you’re listening, avoid oversharing, and keep calls tight and focused. Chris also shares subtle ways to earn trust, build rapport, and guide conversations without forcing them. If you’ve ever lost a deal after you thought it was in the bag, this episode will show you why—and how to fix it. Timestamps: (00:00) Intro (01:15) Ask deeper, smarter questions (02:46) Show prospects you listened (03:26) Avoid oversharing, build trust (04:40) Respect time, guide conversations (07:13) Note-taking builds client confidence (09:04) Power of thoughtful pauses Check out The Futur: Website: ⁠⁠https://www.thefutur.com/⁠⁠ Courses: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.thefutur.com/shop⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-futur/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Podcasts: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://thefutur.com/podcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

What makes a boss “bad”—and why do so many talented people end up working for them? Author and marketing executive Mita Malick joins Chris Do to share the stories behind her new book, The Devil Emails at Midnight, including how childhood bullying shaped her empathy and her mission to create healthier workplaces. Together, they break down 13 toxic boss archetypes, the hidden triggers that turn well-meaning leaders into bad ones, and how creatives can spot red flags before it’s too late. Whether you’re navigating a tough client, rebuilding a team, or learning how not to repeat the mistakes of past managers, this episode gives you practical tools and a fresh perspective on what better leadership really looks like. Timestamps: (00:00) – Intro (01:30) – Culture starts at home (03:25) – Driveway hate graffiti story (06:10) – Principal’s office, suspension fallout (09:33) – Book genesis: bad bosses (11:44) – The midnight-email manager problem (12:20) – Micromanagers, disengaged leadership explained (14:5

Retail isn’t dead—it’s transforming. Laura Marrero, Partner and Strategy Director at Gensler, reveals why the best brands are rethinking stores as experiences, not just points of sale. We explore the “PhD” of retail—Physical, Human, Digital—and why the future is less about malls and more about destinations that build belonging. From Westfield Century City to the rise of retailtainment, Laura explains how to design spaces that people actually want to visit. Timestamps: (00:00) – Intro (02:15) – Laura Marrero’s career path (05:42) – Why retail is transforming (09:18) – Flagships, inline, and pop-ups (12:56) – The PhD of retail (16:33) – How people choose locations (20:11) – Destination retail vs. convenience (24:07) – Case study: Century City mall (28:52) – Lifestyle experiences that work (33:15) – The parking problem explained (36:44) – Retailtainment and social connection (40:12) – Scarcity, drops, and belonging (44:20) – Closing thoughts and key takeaways Check out today's guest, Lara Marrero: Insta

Most creatives avoid building a personal brand because it feels like chasing clout. But in this conversation, Chris Do and Matt Essam flip the script: personal branding isn’t about being famous—it’s about being findable, credible, and trusted at scale. You’ll learn why “attention without influence” is meaningless, how the Know–Like–Trust framework still rules, and why your reputation is the most powerful marketing asset you’ll ever own. Chris and Matt break down the grind behind visibility—from networking events to LinkedIn strategy—and how to borrow credibility the right way. Timestamps: (00:00) – Intro (03:41) – Pre-social networking tactics explained. (04:54) – LinkedIn replaces networking events. (07:22) – Social proof builds reputation. (09:00) – Attention without influence is useless. (11:24) – Know Like Trust framework. (12:35) – Be findable, get discovered. (18:46) – Personal brand force multiplier. (20:14) – Spotlight your real substance. (33:55) – Branding compels, marketing re

Chris Do sits down with strategist and partnership builder Priscilla Lau to talk about the business of relationships. From her early days at Google and YouTube to launching Representation Matters, Priscilla shares how she helps creators and brands build partnerships that grow both revenue and community. They cover the creator economy, selling without sleaze, the “zone of genius,” and why identity and style matter in business. This episode is packed with insight for anyone wanting to level up their creative career while staying true to themselves. Timestamps: (00:00) Intro (03:05) Google/YouTube partnerships origin story (07:06) Asian American identity journey (09:02) Learning sales; 70% close (15:02) Style permission and fit (19:47) “Clothes are tools” framework (21:04) Travel uniform: layers, pockets (23:15) Style as social icebreaker (28:31) Defining your zone of genius (44:31) Legacy, parenting, purpose, service (49:00) Caltrain joy; closing reflections Hey listeners!   Here is a savings opportunit

What if the secret to standing out on LinkedIn isn’t posting more—but mastering comments? In this episode, Chris Do talks with copywriter and creative strategist Jasmin Alic about building influence, writing with rhythm, and showing up with consistency. From his early days as a rapper to becoming one of LinkedIn’s most engaging voices, Jasmin breaks down how creators can use discipline, habits, and authentic interaction to earn visibility and trust online. Timestamps: (00:00) Intro (02:05) Power of LinkedIn comments (05:10) From rap career to copywriting (10:15) Why posting daily is overrated (18:20) Engagement as habit, not job (26:00) Mastering LinkedIn algorithm timing (37:20) Finding content ideas in comments (48:15) Building trust and real community (01:01:10) Balancing business and family life (01:15:30) Discipline, mindset, and consistency (01:37:50) Rap, rhythm, and persuasive writing (01:49:10) Final reflections and key takeaways Hey listeners!   Here is a savings opportunity for the AIGA Des

What’s the real cost of internet fame? In this episode, Chris and Jodie Cook break down the hidden pressures of building a big online audience—relentless DMs, parasocial fans, and the constant demand for time and attention. You’ll learn how to set boundaries, use automation to manage inbox overload, and price coaching calls in a way that protects your energy while increasing client results. Jodie also shares the challenges of authenticity online, the perks (and pitfalls) of recognition, and why clear systems are key to thriving in the spotlight. This is a must-listen for creators, founders, and coaches who want to grow without burning out. Timestamps (00:00) — Cost of Internet Fame 02:46) — Managing Social Media DMs (05:22) — DM Automation Tools (09:16) — Coaching Call Pricing (14:20) — Client Prep Questions (22:19) — Parasocial Fan Boundaries (31:46) — Benefits of Recognition (37:28) — Online Authenticity vs Persona (44:01) — Dark S

From Atlanta studios to Hollywood sets to inventing new technology, Troy Plota has built a career on persistence and reinvention. In this conversation with Chris Do, he shares how he went from organizing model books to shooting celebrities, the $35K day that changed everything, and the app that transformed still photos into living motion. But the story doesn’t stop there. Troy opens up about clients who refused to pay, platforms that exploited his work, and why he believes DAOs could finally give artists ownership and fair compensation. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to build, lose, and rebuild again in the creative industry, this episode is for you. Timestamps: (00:00) – Intro (03:29) – Shooting Mariah Carey and Usher (05:00) – Fashion “testing” explained (09:37) – $250 shoots to $35K payday (11:12) – Free work lands a big client (13:33) – Catalog jobs and cashflow struggles (15:58) – Tony Braxton photos used without pay (20:21) – Pla

In this episode, Chris Do reunites with Allan Dib, bestselling author of The One Page Marketing Plan and Lean Marketing, to break down timeless marketing truths in a noisy AI-driven world. Using his playful “wedding episode” framework—something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue—Allan shares why fundamentals never go out of style, how AI is an Iron Man suit (not a replacement), why creativity and identity are the ultimate differentiators, and how to use simple human touches to cut through digital clutter. They explore the real challenges creators face today: obscurity vs. theft, average messaging vs. standout authenticity, and why giving away your best ideas often creates the greatest opportunities. Along the way, Allan introduces lean marketing principles, the barbell strategy, and the concept of “positive externalities” that make your marketing valuable—even to those who never buy. Timestamps: (00:00) Intro & The Wedding Episode Setup (01:19) Something Old — Fundamentals in an AI-

⁠Register for AdobeMax⁠ using the code FUTUR25 for $400 off a full pass.  See you there! In this episode, Chris Do sits down with designer, filmmaker, and creative entrepreneur Stan Nwaeze to unpack the story of how he built himself—from growing up with scarcity in Nigeria to crafting a career rooted in vision, values, and relentless curiosity. Stan traces his path from teaching himself HTML and design, to shifting into branding and UI/UX, and finally to discovering filmmaking as the medium that allows him to bring all his skills together. He opens up about building authority by sharing what he knows online, landing global clients through consistency, and why documenting your process can be more powerful than waiting to be “discovered.” Chris and Stan also dive into the bigger themes of faith, identity, and authenticity in the creator economy: why who you are comes before what you do, how to balance free work with strategic marketing, and what it takes to stand out in a noisy world shaped by AI tools and

Why do we care so much about what other people think? In this candid and thought-provoking conversation, Chris Do and Jodie Cook unpack the roots of identity, judgment, and self-worth. From school systems that condition conformity, to the subtle ways parents shape our sense of pride and achievement, Chris and Jodie explore how external validation can quietly dictate our happiness. They discuss the difference between praise and gratitude, the trap of living for weekends, and how to cultivate the courage to stand in your own truth—unapologetically. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why schools and early environments push us toward conformity How parental expectations shape identity and self-worth The difference between praise and gratitude in relationships and leadership Why living for the weekend signals deeper misalignment How judgment (of others and self) creates separation Practical ways to stop caring about others’ opinions and focus on your own path Timestamps (0

In this episode, Chris Do sits down with CPA, creator, and entrepreneur Hector Garcia to unpack how he’s blended accounting, content, and community into a career that defies categories. From building his bookkeeping firm out of Florida to becoming one of the most influential voices in the QuickBooks world, Hector shares how documenting his learning journey on YouTube turned into a thriving practice, new ventures, and over 300,000 subscribers. He opens up about selling his firm, founding a software company, and running a conference for accountants—all while wrestling with how to market without losing authenticity. Chris and Hector also explore the deeper themes of relationship-building, generosity, and long-term thinking: why showing up, serving without expectation, and creating value is the real engine behind sustainable business. Along the way, Hector breaks down his multiple income streams, the lessons learned from navigating YouTube’s algorithm, and how to turn community into opportunity. Whether you’re

What if your brand could capture attention like a Hollywood blockbuster? In this episode of The Futur Podcast, Chris Do sits down with Greg Logan—founder of Narrativity and author of Creating a Blockbuster Brand—to unpack how the world’s most successful movies can teach us how to tell unforgettable brand stories. Greg explains why the Hero’s Journey works every time, how to define your brand’s quest, and why storytelling—not facts—drives human decision-making. He also shares his four-day process for helping companies transform from forgettable to unforgettable. Whether you’re a creative entrepreneur, marketer, or business leader, you’ll walk away with practical storytelling frameworks that help you stand out, connect emotionally, and build a brand people love. What you’ll learn in this episode: Greg Logan’s 3 rules of storytelling How Hollywood formulas apply to brand storytelling Why stories are more persuasive and memorable than facts The Hero’s Journey explained (and how

Register for AdobeMax using the code FUTUR25 for $400 off a full pass.  See you there! In this episode, Chris Do sits down with brand strategist and storyteller Sun Yi to unpack the truth behind internet personas, the realities of creative entrepreneurship, and how storytelling unlocks influence. From building his agency out of a New York apartment (and sleeping in the office) to helping others reframe their own narratives, Sun shares the pivotal moments that shaped his career—including how his wife Gigi helped turn a struggling business into a thriving one. They explore the tension between craft and commerce, emotional thinking vs. structure, and what it really takes to raise your prices, trust your gut, and teach others to say “I never thought of it that way.” Whether you're building a brand, running a creative business, or trying to find your voice online, this episode is a masterclass in owning your story—on and off camera. Timestamps: (00:15) Internet Personas vs. Real Life: Who Is the Real Sun Y

In this episode, I sit down with Jodie Cook—entrepreneur, author, and powerlifter—for an unfiltered conversation on building an agency that fits the life you want to live. From rabbits, deer, and elephants to whales and dolphins, we unpack how to categorize clients, know which ones to pursue, and why chasing the wrong type can leave your business overrun, exhausted, or stuck. Timestamps: (0:00) Intro (1:46) What Are Deer Clients (3:29) Cost of Too Many Smalls (5:04) Landing Big Brand Whales (6:34) When Big Clients Overwhelm (8:52) Whales vs Third-Bid Time Wasters (10:48) Dolphin Clients Explained (12:37) Client Budgets & Competition (14:17) Moving Up to Bigger Accounts (16:02) Jumbo Smalls Drain Resources (17:32) Revenue vs Profit Truth (19:19) Avoiding Shiny Object Syndrome (20:51) Chasing Big Clients Anyway (22:59) Creative Agency Lessons (36:27) Power of Niching Down (38:15) Mid-Sized Clients’ Sweet Spot Check out today's guest, Jodie Cook: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodie-cook/ Yo