Brand for Good
Today would have been my dad’s 91st birthday, and as I reflect on his life and leadership, I am reminded of the state of compassion in our world today. My dad spent his career as a city manager and chief administrative officer. He negotiated with unions, worked with city councils, and built trust by listening, respecting, and connecting with people—even when they disagreed. In this episode, I share personal insights from my dad’s legacy and explore why compassion is not a weakness but a radical strength in leadership. From online hate to real-world divisions, we’ve lost some of our...
info_outlineBrand for Good
You’ve heard it a thousand times: people do business with brands they know, like, and trust. But here’s the challenge: we’re living through a trust recession. Just like in an economic downturn, where money is scarce and harder to earn, trust is now scarce and harder to build. In this episode, I share: Why the trust recession is happening (and the two root causes I see most clearly) What it means to strengthen the pillars of know, like, and trust in today’s marketplace Why being a Category of One requires not just words, but proof How to create consistent opportunities for...
info_outlineBrand for Good
Most entrepreneurs try to stand out by doing more — more offers, more hustle, more marketing. But here’s the truth: doing more doesn’t make you different. Thinking differently does. In this episode of Brand for Good, I share the shift that changes everything: Category of One Thinking. This isn’t just a marketing tactic — it’s a mindset. It’s the process of moving beyond comparison and competition, and instead claiming the space that only you can fill. You’ll learn: Why every business is unique, but most don’t sound unique What a Category of One Statement really is — and...
info_outlineBrand for Good
We’ve all been told to “educate our audience.” But what if all that explaining is actually hurting your ability to sell? In this episode, I break down why more information doesn’t lead to more conversions—and what actually does. I talk about my concept of belief-based branding and how it accelerates trust, shortens the sales cycle, and positions you as the obvious choice in your space. I cover: Why explaining your offer in detail often repels the right clients The difference between clarity and connection Three powerful messaging shifts to create emotional resonance How to...
info_outlineBrand for Good
Today’s conversation with Heather Hetchler, MA, is one that will stick with me for a long time. Heather is an author, speaker, and communication consultant who equips women in midlife to face unexpected challenges with clarity, confidence, and courage. A seasoned relationship coach and breast cancer survivor, Heather is a master at reframing our most difficult life transitions into opportunities for growth. We dive into why work-life balance is a myth, the power of perspective when navigating personal and professional challenges, and how grief is often the hidden thread running through so...
info_outlineBrand for Good
What happens when your perfectly planned vacation gets turned upside down? In this episode, I share the story of my three‑week trip to Lakeside, Ohio — a place that usually brings me peace, clarity, and joy — and how this time, everything went differently than expected. From juggling three generations under one roof to two unexpected hospitalizations, the trip became a real‑time lesson in flexibility, leadership, and the power of letting go. I explore why expectations can set us up for disappointment, in life and business, and what it means to focus instead on the essence of what...
info_outlineBrand for Good
When you think about hiring, you might focus on résumés, skill sets, and experience. But here’s the truth I’ve learned over years of building teams: the people you hire are your brand. In this episode of Brand for Good, I’m sharing my best tips for hiring people who will not only do the job but also strengthen your reputation, culture, and long-term growth. We’ll talk about why skills aren’t enough, the one question I always ask before making a hire, and how the wrong person can cost you far more than their salary. Whether you’re bringing on your first contractor or expanding a...
info_outlineBrand for Good
In this special episode of Brand for Good, I’m turning the mic over to two very bright voices—our summer interns, Arielle Teppert and Alyssa Kilpatrick. Over the past two months, they’ve immersed themselves in the world of purpose-driven marketing at Prosper for Purpose, learning everything from social media strategy to brand messaging to how AI fits into the future of creative work. In their own words, they share what it’s like to intern at a purpose-driven agency, what surprised them most about working in a real-world setting, and how hands-on experience has shaped their views on...
info_outlineBrand for Good
Most people think visibility is the key to growing their brand. But here’s the truth I’ve learned—and what I unpack in this episode: Visibility gets you seen. Credibility gets you sales. And they are not the same thing. In this solo episode of Brand for Good, I’m diving deep into what I call the currency of credibility—the invisible authority that makes your audience lean in, trust you, and choose you (even before you pitch them). Whether you’re a coach, consultant, creative, or nonprofit leader, this episode will help you understand: The difference between visibility and...
info_outlineBrand for Good
If you’re an entrepreneur or small business owner, here’s the truth: you will never grow without taking risks. And I’m not talking about reckless gambles—I’m talking about calculated, courageous leaps. In this episode, I’m sharing the four types of risk that show up at every level of business and how some of the most successful entrepreneurs, from Sara Blakely to Rihanna, made bold moves in the face of uncertainty. You’ll also learn about some of the risks I took in my journey—and why I believe the best bet you’ll ever make is on yourself. Whether you’re debating a pivot,...
info_outlineIn this episode of Brand for Good, I’m talking with Fred Meyers, the founder of Queensboro, to explore the origins, evolution, and enduring impact of branded apparel. Fred’s journey from a college dorm room entrepreneur to a leader in custom embroidered apparel is filled with insights, innovations, and personal stories that inspire and inform.
Key Highlights:
-
From Inspiration to Inception:
Fred recounts how his early experiences with iconic Lacoste Alligator shirts and the simple act of doing laundry sparked an unexpected entrepreneurial journey. Discover how a gap in the market led him to create Queensboro and offer customizable, high-quality shirts that helped companies share their brands with the world. -
Innovative Beginnings:
Learn about the early innovations that set Queensboro apart—from embracing the 800 number for customer calls to developing custom software on Dbase3 to manage orders and logos. Fred explains how these tech-forward moves helped streamline operations and enhance customer service. -
A Focus on Relationships:
Fred dives into why building deep, personal connections with small and medium-sized businesses has been key to Queensboro’s success. He contrasts the loyalty and trust cultivated through serving countless individual entrepreneurs with the challenges of handling larger accounts. -
Navigating Change & Growth:
Follow the evolution of Queensboro as Fred discusses moving from New York to Wilmington, North Carolina, and finally to Dallas, Texas. Each transition brought its own challenges, but also the opportunity to build a dedicated team and refine the business model for lasting impact. -
The Power of Branded Apparel:
Explore the transformative role that a well-designed logo and quality apparel can play in establishing a brand identity. Fred shares why investing in your logo is crucial and how wearing branded apparel can foster pride and unity within a team. -
On-Demand & Sustainable Trends:
Fred touches on the future of the industry, highlighting the importance of on-demand production models and innovations in sustainable fabric dyeing and finishing. Get his take on how these trends will shape the industry in the years to come. -
Special Offer:
Don’t miss out on a unique opportunity! Queensboro is currently featuring a new customer acquisition offer: For just $4.95, you can get a premium quality polo shirt with your custom embroidered logo. Plus, enjoy free logo setup and, with orders of 50 or more, free shipping. It’s the perfect chance for solopreneurs and creative entrepreneurs to elevate their brand with an affordable, high-quality product.
Learn how thoughtful innovation, strong customer relationships, and a commitment to quality can transform a simple idea into a lasting legacy. Whether you're an entrepreneur or a branding enthusiast, Fred’s story offers valuable lessons on building a brand that endures.
Guest Links
Website: https://www.queensboro.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/queensboro
X: https://x.com/queensborousa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/queensborousa/#
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/queensboro
Brand for Good Links
Email your thoughts about this episode: [email protected]
Join the Peerless Brands Facebook community by Prosper for Purpose: https://www.facebook.com/groups/peerlessbrands
Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineschuchart/
Follow Lorraine on Instagram: @lorraineschuchart
Follow Prosper for Purpose on Instagram: @prosper4purpose
Additional resources from Prosper for Purpose: https://www.prosperforpurpose.com