ViralBrand with Rick Schirmer

About ViralBrand with Rick Schirmer

Welcome to Viral Brand TV with Rick Schirmer! This show explores the strategies behind today’s most viral brands and features interviews with the masterminds who create them. Host Rick Schirmer uncovers the mindset, marketing tactics, and growth strategies that turn bold ideas into buzzworthy movements. If you’re an entrepreneur, marketer, or creator ready to build a brand people can’t ignore, this show is for you.

Publisher

Rick Schirmer

Category

tv & film

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

24 Feb 2026

Latest episode

27 Aug 2026

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   27 Aug 2026

   EP15 - Jonathan Baruch: From Hollywood Agent to Entrepreneur, Building Talent Careers & Shaping Stories That Last

   In this episode of ViralBrand, Rick Schirmer sits down with talent manager, producer, and entertainment entrepreneur Jonathan Baruch for a behind-the-scenes conversation about building a lasting career in Hollywood, developing talent, and creating opportunities for storytellers. Jonathan shares his journey from moving to Los Angeles in the late 1980s with dreams of becoming a Hollywood producer to starting in the mailroom at ICM and eventually becoming a talent agent. After gaining experience at Artists Management Group, Jonathan went on to launch his own talent management and production company, which he has led for nearly two decades. Today, he represents writers, filmmakers, and other creative storytellers across the entertainment industry. Rick and Jonathan discuss the importance of relationships, persistence, and understanding the business behind creative careers. Jonathan also shares insights from his decades-long relationship with Eric Tuchman, co-showrunner of The Handmaid's Tale, and his work within film and television. The conversation offers a candid look at what it takes to build a sustainable career in Hollywood, navigate an evolving entertainment landscape, and create opportunities by combining creative vision with entrepreneurial thinking.

2. 

   4 Aug 2026

   EP 13 - Sarah Kate Bennett: Influencer Marketing, Brand Partnerships & Building Authentic Campaigns

   In this episode of ViralBrand, Rick Schirmer sits down with Sarah Kate Bennett (SK), influencer marketing strategist at Troops & Allies, for an inside look at what it takes to build successful brand partnerships and impactful influencer campaigns. Since joining Troops & Allies in 2021, Sarah Kate has played a key role in managing influencer relationships, coordinating campaigns, overseeing partner contracts, and ensuring seamless execution for major entertainment releases. Her work has supported high-profile projects including I Can Only Imagine 2, The Best Christmas Pageant Ever, Jesus Revolution, and Flamin’ Hot. Together, Rick and Sarah Kate discuss how authentic relationships drive successful influencer marketing, why organization and collaboration are essential behind the scenes, and how brands can create campaigns that genuinely connect with audiences. They also explore current trends in creator partnerships, campaign strategy, event planning, and what it takes to thrive in the fast-moving world of digital marketing. Whether you're a brand, entrepreneur, marketer, or content creator, this conversation offers valuable insights into building meaningful partnerships that create lasting impact.

3. 

   4 Aug 2026

   EP14 - Billy Garrett: Turning Creativity into Business & Building Unique Brands

   In this episode of ViralBrand, Rick Schirmer sits down with entrepreneur, artist, and maker Billy Garrett for a fascinating conversation about creativity, innovation, and building a business by embracing what makes you different. From growing up in Malibu and working in a surf shop at just 12 years old to careers in acting, cosmetology, and design, Billy's journey has been anything but conventional. Today, he is the founder and sole craftsman behind Wired Up Manufacturing, where he handcrafts one-of-a-kind lighting pieces and functional art that have earned a loyal following around the world. Billy shares how a broken BB gun transformed into his very first lamp, sparking a business that has flourished for more than a decade through Etsy and custom commissions. His work demonstrates that creativity and craftsmanship can become a thriving business when paired with authenticity and persistence. Together, Rick and Billy explore the entrepreneurial mindset, taking creative risks, and why success often comes from following curiosity rather than a traditional career path. Billy also discusses launching multiple ventures—including his Sunshine Sauce food brand and his experience buying and selling products online—revealing the importance of staying adaptable and always looking for new opportunities. They also discuss branding, craftsmanship, problem-solving, and how building something unique can help entrepreneurs stand out in today's competitive marketplace. Whether you're an artist, maker, entrepreneur, or someone looking to turn a passion into a business, this conversation is an inspiring reminder that creativity can become your greatest competitive advantage.

4. 

   8 Jul 2026

   EP12 - Pastor Paul Taylor: The Wilderness Way, Spiritual Growth & Building a Foundation That Lasts

   In this episode of ViralBrand, Rick Schirmer sits down with Pastor Paul Taylor for a meaningful conversation about faith, leadership, and navigating life's wilderness seasons with purpose and perseverance. Drawing from his own personal journey and the principles behind The Wilderness Way, Pastor Paul explains how seasons of uncertainty, waiting, and discomfort can become the very places where character is strengthened and lasting spiritual foundations are built. Together, Rick and Pastor Paul explore the biblical concept of the wilderness, highlighting how figures such as Moses, Jesus, Elijah, and the Apostle Paul all experienced seasons of preparation before stepping into greater purpose. Pastor Paul also reflects on his own 20-year wilderness journey, sharing how surrendering his plans ultimately led him toward a deeper relationship with God and a clearer understanding of his calling. Central to the discussion is The Wilderness Way's framework of the "12 Stones"—foundational principles that include truth, obedience, wisdom, discernment, humility, self-control, perseverance, forgiveness, repentance, and security in God. These timeless biblical values provide a roadmap for spiritual maturity and personal transformation. Rick and Pastor Paul also discuss the importance of communicating faith in practical, accessible ways and how clear messaging can help people engage with biblical truth across every stage of life. This episode offers encouragement for anyone walking through a difficult season, reminding listeners that the wilderness is often where God prepares us for what comes next.

5. 

   2 Jul 2026

   EP11 - Molly Lavik: Spatial AI, Holograms & Building the Future of Human Connection

   In this episode of ViralBrand, Rick Schirmer sits down with entrepreneur, investor, educator, and innovation leader Molly Lavik for a fascinating conversation about emerging technology, entrepreneurship, and the future of human connection through spatial AI. A former professor and mentor to Rick during his time at Pepperdine University, Molly has spent her career helping organizations and entrepreneurs embrace innovation and stay ahead of technological change. Long before today's AI revolution, she was introducing interactive learning technologies and exploring new ways for people to engage with digital experiences. Today, Molly is helping lead growth and innovation at Proto, a pioneering spatial AI company that creates holographic experiences through volumetric AI technology. Using life-sized holographic avatars, Proto is transforming industries ranging from healthcare and education to entertainment and communications. Together, Rick and Molly discuss how holographic technology is bringing specialist doctors into underserved communities, creating new opportunities for patient care, and enabling meaningful interactions across distances that once felt impossible. They also explore the emerging world of AI-powered legacy preservation, including projects involving cultural icons such as Stan Lee and Ozzy Osbourne, as well as the emotional and ethical implications of using AI technology to preserve memories and human connection. Beyond technology, Molly shares lessons learned throughout her entrepreneurial journey, including the importance of resilience, grit, mentorship, and discovering the work you simply cannot ignore. This episode offers an inspiring look at the intersection of innovation, humanity, and the technologies that may define the future.

6. 

   2 Jul 2026

   EP10 - Luanne Dietz: Brand Storytelling, Community Building & Human-Centered Marketing

   In this insightful episode of ViralBrand, Rick Schirmer sits down with brand storytelling pioneer Luanne Dietz to explore how the most successful brands build meaningful connections through authentic stories and community-driven marketing. Luanne shares her unique career journey from photojournalism to becoming an early innovator in branded content and brand storytelling. During her time at CNN, she helped launch one of the first brand studios, creating compelling short-form documentaries and branded films that transformed how advertisers connected with audiences. The conversation dives into her work with global brands including Starbucks and Amazon, where she developed impactful storytelling initiatives that prioritized human experiences over product promotion. Luanne reflects on creating a documentary in Rwanda highlighting an all-female coffee cooperative and discusses how authentic storytelling can inspire audiences while strengthening brand loyalty. She also shares insights from one of her most successful projects, Human by Design, a groundbreaking multi-platform campaign that explored the future of human augmentation through documentary filmmaking, live events, and immersive storytelling experiences. Throughout the episode, Luanne emphasizes a powerful philosophy that is reshaping modern marketing: community is the new campaign. Rather than focusing solely on selling products, she believes brands should build communities around shared values, purpose, and meaningful experiences. This episode explores branding, storytelling, marketing innovation, audience engagement, content strategy, and how businesses can create deeper relationships with the people they serve.

7. 

   21 Apr 2026

   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.

8. 

   14 Apr 2026

   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.

9. 

   7 Apr 2026

   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.

10. 

    31 Mar 2026

    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.

11. 

    24 Mar 2026

    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.

12. 

    17 Mar 2026

    EP4 - Mastering Influence & Viral Growth with Rachel McCord

    In this episode of ViralBrand TV, Rick Schirmer sits down with his wife, entrepreneur and visionary Rachel McCord, hailed as the “mastermind of all time.” Together, they dive into the strategies that make products and ideas go viral, emphasizing the power of creating movements rather than just building brands. Rachel shares actionable advice for entrepreneurs: focus on solving real problems, tap into existing waves of desire, and cultivate passion that drives relentless execution. The conversation also explores the nuances of influencer versus creator marketing, scaling with AI, and launching ventures that truly resonate with your audience.

13. 

    10 Mar 2026

    EP3 - Seoul’s Secret Sauce: Kenji Claudio on K-Culture, Marketing & Viral Brands

    On this episode of ViralBrand TV, Rick Schirmer sits down with marketing strategist Kenji Claudio to explore the explosive influence of South Korean culture on the global stage. From K-pop to K-beauty, Kenji shares his insider perspective on how Korea has become the “Capital of Cool” and a powerhouse of cultural exports. Drawing from 15 years of experience in marketing, PR, and TV with brands like Target, Kia, Quiksilver, and Fox Sports Asia, Kenji explains how Korean brands creatively reinvent Western products for global audiences and leverage platforms like TikTok to reach the world. He also discusses his personal journey moving to Korea, the entrepreneurial culture of the country, and how faith, food trends, and even pickleball intersect with business. This episode is perfect for anyone curious about global marketing, K-culture, and the art of exporting not just products, but influence.

14. 

    3 Mar 2026

    EP2 - Clicks, Shares, Repeat: Inside Eric McClellan’s World

    In this high-energy episode of ViralBrand TV, host Rick Schirmer sits down with actor, creator, and viral strategist Eric McClellan. With a background in entertainment, tech, and nonprofit fundraising, Eric has mastered the art of making content explode online — from his first TikTok videos in 2019 to orchestrating viral campaigns for major brands. Eric breaks down the mechanics behind viral videos, the psychology of attention, and the three pillars of Chick-fil-A’s legendary raving fan strategy: operational excellence, second-mile service, and emotional connection. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from working on campaigns for Disney, Nutter Butter, and the movie Reagan with Dennis Quaid, as well as lessons learned from mentors like Adley Kinsman, whose content reaches billions of views each month. Listeners will gain actionable insights into creating engaging, shareable content, building authentic emotional connections, and leveraging digital platforms — all while keeping their creativity and humor intact.

15. 

    24 Feb 2026

    EP1 - The Human Algorithm: Building Brands That Go Viral with Steve Morales

    In this episode of ViralBrand TV, host Rick Schirmer sits down with marketing and e-commerce expert Steve Morales to explore the evolving landscape of brand growth, emotional connection, and viral marketing. They share stories from their early careers — from grassroots campaigns at Disney and music labels to navigating the dawn of social media on platforms like MySpace. Steve emphasizes that while technology and platforms are tools for growth, successful marketing ultimately comes down to understanding people and creating deep emotional connections. The conversation highlights strategies for smaller brands and entrepreneurs, from leveraging TikTok’s algorithm to building authentic collaborations, to “shut up and shoot” content creation. They also discuss Morales’ recent work with the snack brand Waivers and share insights from Schirmer’s book Launchpreneur and the marketing classic Contagious. Listeners will gain actionable takeaways on connecting with audiences, embracing digital opportunities, and building brands that resonate on a human level.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.