Welcome to the PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo podcast, the ultimate podcast for entrepreneurs and personal branding enthusiasts who are ready to take their brands to the next level. If you're looking to start, grow, and scale your personal brand to elevate your business and maximize profits, this podcast is for you. Each episode is packed with expert interviews, actionable tips, and exclusive content designed to inspire and empower you. Plus, with every episode, you have the chance to win exciting prizes, making your listening experience both rewarding and engaging. Hosted by Dillon Kivo, a WSJ and USA Today bestselling author of "The Authority Playbook," this podcast draws on his extensive experience in transforming over 4,000 personal brands and working with some of the most iconic names in the entrepreneurial space. Dillon brings unparalleled insights and real-world strategies to help you succeed in your personal branding journey.
Welcome to The PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! In today's episode, we explore why a Google Knowledge Panel is the new business card for experts, consultants, founders, coaches, authors, and personal brands. Learn why your Google search results have become your most important first impression, how Knowledge Panels influence trust, AI platforms, and buying decisions, and why owning your name online is becoming essential in today's digital economy. Whether you're building a personal brand, growing your consulting business, or positioning yourself as an authority in your industry, this episode explains why your digital credibility matters more than ever and how Google and AI are shaping your reputation long before anyone speaks to you. Highlights: • "Your Google moment is the most important first impression you will ever make." • "A Google Knowledge Panel is the blue check mark of Google, except it's even more powerful." • "Your knowledge panel works for you 24/7. Google does the selling for you." • "We live in a world where your digital first impression is your real first impression." • "The most important part about a Google Knowledge Panel is literally owning your name on Google and AI." Timestamps: 00:00 - Intro 00:48 - Your Google Search Is Your First Impression 02:10 - What Is a Google Knowledge Panel? 03:38 - Why It Is the Most Valuable Digital Real Estate 05:29 - The Trust Signal That Changes Everything 07:35 - Why AI Makes Knowledge Panels More Important Than Ever 10:07 - Why Your Name Is Your Brand 11:15 - How Knowledge Panels Compound Over Time 12:41 - The Biggest Mistakes People Make 14:57 - Why There Are No Shortcuts 16:19 - Your Digital First Impression Is Your Real First Impression 17:28 - Why You Must Own Your Name on Google 18:34 - Outro Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: PersonalBranding.com/
Welcome to The PersonalBranding.com Podcast with Dillon Kivo! In today's episode, Dillon breaks down why writing a book may be the highest-leverage authority move a founder can make in 2026. This episode dives into how books create long-term credibility, shift buyer perception before the first sales call, and help founders clarify what they truly believe about their business and industry. If you've ever wondered whether writing a book is still worth it, this conversation will completely reframe how you see books as a strategic business asset. Highlights: "A book is the only piece of content you'll ever make that compounds for probably the rest of your career." "By the time a serious buyer gets on a call with you, they've already formed an opinion about you." "You're not pitching them anymore. They're meeting the person who wrote that book." "The act of writing the book changes the founder, not just the founder's market position." "You don't need a million readers. You need the right thousand readers." Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: PersonalBranding.com/
If you're a personal injury lawyer running ads, buying leads, and still blending in with every other firm, this episode is your wake-up call. Dillon Kivo breaks down the harsh reality of today's legal landscape: saturation. Every firm is using the same marketing playbook, which forces lawyers into a race where visibility is bought—not earned. But authority changes everything. In this episode, Dillon explains why earned media—being featured in publications like Forbes, Yahoo, or USA Today—is one of the most powerful ways to build trust, attract higher-quality clients, and stand out in a crowded market. Unlike paid ads that stop working the moment you stop spending, media placements compound over time, strengthening your SEO, credibility, and referral network. You'll also learn: Why clients trust media features more than ads How authority influences referrals and even jury perception The real reason most lawyers never pursue PR Practical steps to start positioning yourself as the go-to expert in your niche If you're ready to stop competing on price and start competing on authority, this episode will show you exactly where to begin. Highlights "You're competing on ad spend, not authority—and that is an expensive, exhausting race to the bottom." "That's not an ad—that's proof. That's credibility you can't buy with a bigger media budget." "One feature in the right publication can generate trust and leads for years." "Clients don't just come in—they come in already trusting you." "Your personal brand is the one asset that outlasts any ad campaign, algorithm, or market shift." Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: PersonalBranding.com/
Welcome to PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! In today's episode, we explore the powerful business lessons hidden inside the story of David and Goliath. Dillon breaks down why the real takeaway isn't simply that the underdog can win, but that success often comes from refusing to compete on someone else's terms. We'll look at how entrepreneurs, creators, and founders can build advantage by leaning into their unique strengths, mastering a specific skill, and approaching challenges with conviction instead of intimidation. Highlights: "Do not compete on your competitor's terms. Do not try to be a smaller, worse version of the giant." "Your weakness might actually be your edge if you learn how to use it." "The entrepreneurs who break through usually aren't the ones with the broadest skillset. They're the ones who got disproportionately good at one thing." "Confidence isn't about ignoring reality. It's about choosing which reality you focus on." "What's already in your hand might be the exact advantage you need." Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: Personalbranding.com
*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "request-68e03d40-abd0-8323-813c-0a591f3eb415-0" data-testid= "conversation-turn-6" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Stepping away from tactics, metrics, and growth advice, Dillon reflects on what the past year actually felt like. It's a quieter conversation about progress that doesn't always show up on paper, the tension between effort and visible results, and why not every meaningful season can be measured by numbers alone. Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: PersonalBranding.com
*]:pointer-events-auto scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]" dir="auto" tabindex="-1" data-turn-id= "7c43e20b-8dfd-44ef-b28c-99a47e0a5ae5" data-testid= "conversation-turn-2" data-scroll-anchor="true" data-turn= "assistant"> Welcome to PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! Today, Dillon dives into the real engine behind fast–growing credibility: social proof. This episode focuses on why people trust what other people trust — and how testimonials, case studies, collaborations, reviews, recognition, and community shape the strength of your personal brand. Dillon breaks down how he uses social proof in his own business and why these signals matter more today than ever. Professional. Actionable. Transformative. This is a masterclass in building trust the right way. Highlights: "People trust what other people trust — that's the core of social proof." "Testimonials are only powerful when they tell a real story of transformation." "A case study proves your results weren't an accident — they were intentional and repeatable." "User-generated content hits differently because people trust real humans more than polished marketing." "Community is one of the strongest forms of social proof on earth — it shows people that your work matters." Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: PersonalBranding.com
Welcome to PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! Today, Dillon dives into the essential topic of building confidence in your brand's voice. This episode focuses on why most people don't actually have a brand voice problem—they have a confidence problem. Dillon breaks down the truth about consistency, authenticity, and clarity, and how putting in the reps is the real shortcut to building a voice your audience trusts. Highlights: "Your brand voice isn't hiding inside a design choice—it's hiding behind a lack of confidence." "Every impression is either building trust or creating confusion. There is no neutral." "Confidence doesn't show up first. Confidence is the reward for doing the work." "The only wrong tone is a fake one." "Familiarity creates trust, and trust is the ultimate competitive advantage." Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: PersonalBranding.com
Welcome to a new episode of PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! Today, Dillon dives into How to Set SMART Goals for Your Personal Brand. This episode focuses on turning vague dreams like "I want to grow" into clear, measurable, and achievable steps that actually move your brand forward. You'll learn how to avoid unrealistic expectations, stay relevant to your brand vision, and keep yourself accountable with time-bound targets. Dillon also shares practical examples you can use right away, from growing your email list to improving consistency on social media. This episode is designed for entrepreneurs, creators, and professionals who want clarity, focus, and real progress in their branding journey. Highlights "A goal without a deadline is just a wish." "SMART goals turn big fuzzy dreams into trackable actions." "Achievable doesn't mean aiming low—it means aiming realistically." "Relevance filters out shiny objects and keeps you focused on what matters." "The more SMART goals you achieve, the more momentum you build." Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: PersonalBranding.com
Welcome to a new episode of PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! Today, Dillon dives into the power of YouTube for personal branding. This episode focuses on why YouTube is one of the most effective platforms to grow your influence, build authority, and create long-lasting trust with your audience. Whether you're starting from scratch or ready to level up your video strategy, you'll learn how to deliver real value, build stronger audience connections, and create content that works for you long after you hit upload. Highlights "YouTube isn't just a social platform—it's the second largest search engine in the world." "Every video you post becomes part of your digital library, constantly working for your brand." "People come to YouTube for three things: information, entertainment, or inspiration. Give them one—or all three." "Authenticity matters. Don't be a polished robot. Be someone your audience can connect with." "Consistency trains both your audience and the algorithm to take you seriously." Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: PersonalBranding.com
Welcome to a new episode of PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! Today, Dillon unpacks Social Media Algorithms: How to Navigate Them for Growth. This episode focuses on breaking down what algorithms really are, how they decide who gets seen, and the exact steps you can take to get them working for your brand instead of against it. Highlights "An algorithm is just a set of rules. Learn the rules, and you can start playing to win." "Every post either pulls people deeper into your orbit… or teaches the algorithm to bury you." "Engagement is the currency of social platforms. Don't just post and ghost—reply, connect, and build a loop." "Stay relevant. Deliver the content your audience actually followed you for." "Exposure without community is empty calories. It doesn't stick." Outro / Call to Action Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: PersonalBranding.com
Welcome to a new episode of PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! In Episode 30, Dillon explores The Ethics of Personal Branding: What to Avoid. This isn't a lecture on do's and don'ts—it's a practical guide to building a brand that attracts loyalty, withstands scrutiny, and lasts. Instead of hype or manipulation, Dillon shows you how to anchor your reputation in proof, authenticity, and long-term trust. If you've ever wondered how to make your brand compelling without relying on clickbait or empty promises, this episode is your blueprint. Dillon exposes the ethical mistakes that destroy credibility such as overpromising, fake scarcity, and manipulation. He then shows you how to replace them with strategies that build trust over time. You will discover why proof beats promises, why giving credit creates allies, and how to serve your audience first while still staying profitable. Highlights "Your brand is a bank account. Deposits are kept promises. Withdrawals are hype you can't prove." "Proof is your real edge—anyone can copy a claim, but no one can copy your proof." "Overpromising is sugar. Looks good. Wrecks the system." "Tag, cite, link. If you're inspired by someone, say it. Credit creates allies, not enemies." "Manipulation works once. Then you're that person." Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: PersonalBranding.com
Welcome to a new episode of PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! Today, Dillon dives into the importance of using analytics to measure your brand's performance. This episode focuses on how leveraging the right data can provide you with key insights into how your brand is performing, what's working, and where adjustments are needed. Whether you're building your brand or optimizing an existing one, this episode will show you how to use analytics to make smarter decisions and grow your influence. Highlights: "Think of analytics as your brand's report card—they show you exactly how well you're doing and where there's room for improvement." "Without data, you're navigating blindly. Analytics remove the guesswork and help you focus your efforts on what really works." "Engagement, reach, conversion rates—these are the metrics that matter when it comes to tracking your brand's success." "Using A/B testing and audience feedback, you can refine your content strategy and optimize for better results." Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:58 - Why Analytics Matter 02:05 - Key Metrics to Focus On 02:23 - Using Data to Improve Content Strategy 05:16 - A/B Testing and Adjusting Your Approach 05:27 - Tracking Long-Term Trends 06:28 - Building Community Through Analytics 08:10 - Outro Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: Personalbranding.com/
Welcome to a new episode of PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! In this episode, Dillon dives into the power of consistency across your digital platforms. He breaks down why maintaining a unified brand message across LinkedIn, Instagram, websites, and other online spaces is essential for building trust and recognition. Dillon also shares expert tips on aligning your visuals, voice, and engagement strategy to create a cohesive personal brand. Whether you're an entrepreneur, professional, or influencer, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you stand out and make a lasting impression. Highlights: 💡 "Your audience should recognize your brand instantly—no matter where they find you." 💡 "Consistency isn't just about looks; it's about building trust and credibility with every interaction." 💡 "If your brand voice changes from one platform to another, you risk confusing your audience." 💡 "Engagement matters! Show up consistently to strengthen relationships and create real impact." Timestamps: 1:01 - Why Consistency Matters for Personal Branding 1:43 - Aligning Your Visual Identity Across Platforms 2:33 - Crafting a Consistent Voice and Tone 3:27 - Tailoring Your Message While Staying Cohesive 4:12 - The Role of Engagement in Brand Consistency 5:02 - Measuring and Adjusting for a Stronger Presence 5:32 - Final Thoughts & Next Steps 🔗 Follow Dillon @DillonKivo 🚀 Build your Personal Brand today: PersonalBranding.com
Welcome to a new episode of PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! In this episode, Dillon dives into the power of LinkedIn for personal branding. He breaks down the key elements of an optimized LinkedIn profile, from crafting a compelling headline and summary to building a strong network and engaging with valuable content. Dillon also shares expert tips on positioning yourself as an industry leader and using LinkedIn to create opportunities. Whether you're an entrepreneur, professional, or influencer, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you stand out and build a personal brand that attracts the right connections. Highlights: 💡 "Your LinkedIn profile isn't just a digital resume—it's your personal brand's storefront to the world." 💡 "A well-crafted headline can make the difference between being overlooked and standing out as a thought leader." 💡 "Building a personal brand isn't about who you know—it's about who knows you." 💡 "Engagement is key. If you're not showing up, you're missing out on potential opportunities." Timestamps: 1:10 - Why LinkedIn is Crucial for Personal Branding 1:40 - Crafting the Perfect Headline & Summary 3:40 - Showcasing Your Experience & Achievements 4:44 - The Power of Networking & Engaging on LinkedIn 5:51 - Creating Valuable Content to Establish Authority 6:51 - Getting Recommendations & Endorsements 8:02 - Final Thoughts & Next Steps 🔗 Follow Dillon @DillonKivo 🚀 Build your personal brand today: PersonalBranding.com
Welcome to a new episode of PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! In this episode, Dillon dives deep into the art of scaling your personal brand. You've built a strong foundation and grown your audience—now it's time to take things to the next level. But scaling isn't just about numbers; it's about expanding thoughtfully and strategically while staying true to who you are. Dillon explores the key indicators that signal it's time to scale, the importance of authenticity in growth, and how to leverage networking and new channels for sustainable expansion. Whether you're an entrepreneur, thought leader, or content creator, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you navigate your branding journey. Highlights: "Scaling isn't just about a bigger audience—it's about a deeper connection with the right audience." "If you try to scale too aggressively, you risk losing the authenticity that made your brand successful in the first place." "Your network is one of the most powerful assets when scaling your personal brand. Build relationships before you need them." "Sustainable growth means balancing ambition with feasibility. Don't sacrifice quality in the name of expansion." Timestamps: 0:00 - The Importance of Scaling Your Personal Brand 0:29 - Signs That You're Ready to Scale 2:12 - Scaling with Authenticity 3:44 - Leveraging Networking & Community 5:16 - Expanding Your Reach with New Channels Follow Dillon @DillonKivo
Welcome to a new episode of PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! In this episode, Dillon explores the essential role of mentorship in entrepreneurship. He delves into the various types of mentors, how to find the right fit, and the keys to nurturing a successful mentor-mentee relationship. Dillon also discusses the challenges that can arise and how to overcome them, as well as the importance of paying it forward by becoming a mentor yourself. Whether you're just starting your entrepreneurial journey or well into building your business, this episode is packed with valuable insights to help you accelerate your growth and achieve your goals. Highlights: "Mentorship gives you the access to insights that aren't in any other business book or online course that you can buy." "Mentors don't just share their successes. They're willing to talk about their failures too. And sometimes learning about what not to do can be just as impactful as learning what to do." "Mentorship isn't just a one time relationship where you meet for coffee one time, right? It can grow over time, where you're meeting once a month or whatever." "By supporting others, you keep the cycle going and help build a stronger entrepreneurial community." Timestamps: 0:00 - The Importance of Mentorship in Entrepreneurship 1:50 - Types of Mentors and Their Roles 3:07 - Finding the Right Mentor 3:53 - Nurturing the Mentor-Mentee Relationship 4:24 - Implementing Mentor's Advice 5:24 - Building a Mentor Community 6:09 - Challenges in Mentorship 7:07 - Conclusion Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: Personalbranding.com/
Welcome to a new episode of PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! In this episode, Dillon dives into the topic of finding balance between your personal life and professional hustle as a business owner. He shares practical tips and strategies to help you avoid burnout and stay energized, including setting boundaries, prioritizing what matters most, building a support network, and practicing self-care. Highlights: "Being a business owner is challenging enough without sacrificing your own health and well-being." "Designate work hours and stick to them as best as you can. This not only prevents burnout, but it also signals to your clients and team that you're serious about your time." "Being intentional about what you choose to focus on helps you avoid being pulled into 1000 directions." "Taking care of yourself is taking care of your business. When you feel physically and mentally well, you're able to show up as your best self." "The most important thing is that, in the long run, you're creating a life where both your personal happiness and professional goals can thrive." Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 00:31 - Why Work/Life Balance Is Important 01:00 - Setting Boundaries 02:56 - Being Clear about Your Goals 04:02 - Delegating Tasks to Focus Better 04:42 -Self-Care for Entrepreneurs 05:42 - The Impact of Technology 07:36 - Conclusion Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: Personalbranding.com/
Welcome to a new episode of PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! In this episode, Dillon shares powerful strategies for building a strong, meaningful network that can open doors and propel your personal and professional growth. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, adding value to others, and nurturing relationships over the long-term. Highlights: "Networking should be about giving just as much as receiving." "A good first impression is made by being present, listening actively, and asking thoughtful questions." "Maintaining your network is just as important as building it." "Being intentional about your network can help you find new clients, look for collaborations, or even just valuable advice." "Networking isn't a one-time event. It never actually stops, and it shouldn't if you want to maintain a strong network." Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction 01:12 - Understanding meaningful connections 02:30 - First impressions 04:31 - Nurturing connections 05:50 - Connecting people to one another 07:37 - Online networking opportunities 08:50 - The importance of consistency in networking 09:37 - Conclusion Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: Personalbranding.com/
Welcome to a new episode of PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! In this episode, Dillon explores the topic of impostor syndrome - that nagging feeling that your achievements aren't real or that you've somehow tricked people into thinking you're more capable than you are. He shares actionable tips for entrepreneurs to recognize, address, and overcome impostor syndrome, enabling personal and business growth. Highlights: "Impostor syndrome can hit hard, especially for entrepreneurs who are constantly pushing boundaries and stepping out of their comfort zones." "Each setback brings you one step closer to success by teaching you valuable lessons." "Impostor syndrome might never fully go away, but the more you practice these strategies, the wider that voice of self doubt becomes." "Remember imposture syndrome doesn't define your ability or worth. Keep reframing your thoughts, lean into your support network and celebrate each small win along the way." Timestamps: 0:00 - Understanding Impostor Syndrome 1:09 - Reframing Negative Thoughts with Realistic Self-Talk 2:17 - Keeping a Wins Journal 2:53 - Leaning into Community Support 3:45-Embracing Failing Forward 4:19 - Setting Realistic Goals and Celebrating Small Wins 5:15 - Using Visualization to Reinforce Confidence 5:53 - Redefining Success Personally 6:29 - Accepting That Impostor Syndrome Persists 7:19 - Final Thoughts and Encouragement Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: Personalbranding.com/
Welcome to a new episode of PersonalBranding.com with Dillon Kivo! In this episode, Dillon dives into the psychology of pricing and how to effectively put a value on your personal brand. He explores the fundamentals of pricing, the role of unique selling propositions, the impact of pricing on perception, and practical strategies like market research, value-based pricing, and tiered pricing structures. Highlights: "If you undervalue yourself or priced your service too low, it can give potential clients the impression that your services might not be high quality." "The point of market research is to get a sense of where you fit, not to undercut yourself." "Most people tend to choose the middle option because it feels like it's a safe bet." "The clients you truly want to attract are the ones who see the value in what you're offering." Timestamps: 0:00 - Understanding the Value of Your Personal Brand 1:11 - The Role of Unique Selling Proposition (USP) 2:06 - Psychology of Pricing and Perception 3:01 - Market Research and Value-Based Pricing 4:43 - Anchoring with Pricing Tiers 5:52 - Staying True to Your Value 6:40 - Final Thoughts Follow Dillon @DillonKivo Launch your personal brand: Personalbranding.com/
