ViralBrand with Rick Schirmer

EP9 - Creating a Brand That Lasts with Amy Caldwell

Amy Caldwell joins Rick Schirmer for an insightful conversation on what it truly means to build a viral brand in today’s digital world. More than a single viral moment, Amy explains that sustainable brand growth comes from creating something that is inherently shareable, a brand fueled by authentic advocacy, community trust, and meaningful storytelling. Drawing from her journey of building Boundless from the ground up after a successful career in script development, Amy shares how she carved out a unique niche centered on relatable faith and coffee, using personal storytelling to create a deep emotional connection with her audience. This episode dives into the power of niche marketing, with special focus on the faith based community as one of the most engaged and influential audiences. Amy also offers practical strategies for creators and entrepreneurs looking to grow online: the importance of consistency, owning a clear brand identity, leveraging influencers based on engagement rather than follower count, and embracing the future of vertical content for mobile first storytelling. For anyone building a personal brand, media platform, or mission driven business, this conversation is filled with actionable wisdom on turning authenticity into momentum.

EP8 - Building Brands That Last with Chuck Bradford

In this episode of ViralBrand TV, Rick Schirmer sits down with Chuck Bradford, a leader whose career spans Delta Airlines, Chick-fil-A, and now his own fintech startup, Cord Analytics. Chuck shares insights from over forty years of experience on what makes a brand go viral, emphasizing alignment, adaptation, and adding value. He discusses fan-driven advocacy, the importance of operational excellence, and how emotional connections drive lasting brand success. The conversation also explores Cord, a fintech platform designed to streamline investment analysis, and how Chuck applies the same principles from marketing and leadership to entrepreneurial ventures. Listeners will gain actionable takeaways on building brands, cultivating relational equity, and leading with purpose, principle, and perseverance.

EP7 - Take a Shot at Happiness with Survivor Producer Maria Baltazzi

In this episode of ViralBrand TV, Rick Schirmer sits down with Emmy-winning producer and author Maria Baltazzi, one of the original producers of Survivor. From shaping a cultural phenomenon on national television to creating her #1 Amazon bestseller, Take a Shot at Happiness, Maria shares her journey of discovering purpose, resilience, and well-being. She discusses the creative methods she teaches—like phone photography and reflective journaling—to cultivate happiness, as well as practical tools like “Savoring the Good” and “Thought-Stopping.” The conversation also explores her luxury well-being travel company, Sojourn Explorers, where transformational experiences blend adventure, mindfulness, and sustainability. Maria demonstrates how storytelling, science, and intentional living can help anyone produce a life that feels intentional, inspired, and deeply lived.

EP6 - The Business of Show Business with Stephan Manpearl

In this episode of ViralBrand TV, Rick Schirmer sits down with entertainment marketing legend Stephan Manpearl, whose career spans over four decades and more than 600 feature films, including Raiders of the Lost Ark, Star Trek, and Airplane. Stephan shares his journey from consumer product marketing to Paramount Studios, where he revolutionized film marketing and helped launch Entertainment Tonight. A former UCLA marketing professor and seasoned industry strategist, Stephan dives into niche communities, market segmentation, and the power of engagement to make campaigns go viral. From early examples like The Blair Witch Project to modern AI-driven influencer marketing, he offers rare insights on what it takes to build campaigns that resonate and create cultural impact. Stephan’s one piece of advice: embrace change and always look forward, not backward.

EP5 - The Original Influencer: Kate Morgan on Publicity Power

In this episode of ViralBrand TV, Rick Schirmer sits down with powerhouse publicist Kate Morgan, whose clients span beauty, wellness, lifestyle, and beyond. Kate shares her journey from arriving in America with just $300 to running a globally recognized boutique PR firm. She reveals the strategies behind earning editorial placements in Vogue, GQ, Oprah, and more, and explains why a strong PR strategy is as essential as marketing for building viral, lasting brands. From identifying “white space” in crowded markets to leveraging affiliate programs and Amazon presence, Kate unpacks the modern rules of publicity, media, and brand credibility. Entrepreneurs and business leaders will gain insights on how to secure dream clients, create viral buzz, and master the art of influence in today’s fast-changing media landscape.