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Making the Brand

Making the Brand

Written by: Joel Mathew
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Joel Mathew, Founder and CEO of Chicago-based digital marketing firm, Fortress Consulting, sits down with clients to talk about how they got their start, and what led them to where they are today. You will learn all about entrepreneurship, sales, advertising, branding, and more.© 2025 Making the Brand Careers Economics Leadership Management & Leadership Marketing Marketing & Sales Personal Success
Episodes
  • Hope, Hustle, and Hard Lessons, ft. Phil Sanders
    Jun 30 2025

    Joel first met Phil Sanders, Founder & CEO of Multiply, after hearing him speak at a conference—and instantly knew they were wired the same way.

    In this episode of Making the Brand, Phil gets real about what entrepreneurship actually looks like (and what it definitely doesn’t). No fluff. Just honest, hard-earned insights on building, scaling, and staying sane along the way.

    Tune in for an unfiltered conversation about leadership, growth, and the mindset it takes to build something that lasts.

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    50 mins
  • Inside a Woman-Led Precision Shop That Beats Big Competitors, ft. Debbie Sommers
    Apr 10 2025

    What does it take to lead a woman-owned precision machining company in a male-dominated industry, and win while doing it? Debbie Sommers, President of Lakeview Precision and client of Fortress, joins Joel Mathew to share how she’s built a powerhouse shop known for integrity, innovation, and outworking the competition.

    In this episode, Debbie talks candidly about her leadership journey, the values that drive Lakeview’s success, and how they continue to earn business from some of the world’s biggest brands.

    👉 Don’t miss this one if you’re into manufacturing, entrepreneurship, or just a good underdog story.

    Subscribe for more real conversations with leaders making bold moves.

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    27 mins
  • Soccer, Service, and Storytelling ft. Andy McDermott
    Feb 10 2025

    In this episode of Making the Brand, Andy McDermott shares his remarkable journey from professional soccer player to law enforcement officer, full-time actor, and now a leader in youth sports and community development. He discusses his passion for using sports to positively impact underserved communities, particularly through his work with Intentional Sports, located in Chicago's west side, where he oversees a world-class sports facility that offers much more than just sports training. Intentional Sports was created to be a community for young people and families in Chicago, providing safe, enriching, after-school and summer activities for young people. Andy reflects on the lessons learned from his diverse career, the importance of intentional time management, and his faith as a guiding force in taking bold leaps.

    Check out the Intentional Sports website for more information: intentionalsports.org

    Or email Andy at andy@intentionalsports.org to inquire about partnership opportunities.

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    47 mins
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