Emma Lenhart

I didn’t set out to start a marketing agency—it began as an experiment in creative storytelling and audience engagement. Years ago, I launched a foodie blog called Chicago Foodie Guy to test and optimize content that resonated with a specific audience: food enthusiasts in Chicago. What started as a creative outlet soon evolved into a platform that attracted a loyal following and sponsorships. Every sponsored post, brand collaboration, and social media campaign taught me something about marketing. I realized it wasn’t just about promoting a product but creating a story that resonated. I loved helping businesses—big and small—connect with audiences in authentic and meaningful ways. That realization sparked the idea for my next chapter: starting a marketing agency. At Clark & Co, we channel that same creativity and passion for storytelling to help businesses grow. Whether crafting digital campaigns or building high-performing websites, our focus is on connection—just like I learned in my *ChicagoFoodieGuy* days. If there’s one thing my journey has taught me, it’s this: the most impactful brands are built on genuine stories and a deep understanding of their audience. And it all starts with a leap of faith—whether it’s launching a blog or starting a business. So, what’s the story you’re waiting to tell? Let’s write it together. #EntrepreneurJourney #StorytellingInMarketing #BusinessGrowth #ChicagoFoodie #ClarkAndCo

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I’ve been running my video company for over six years now—crazy to think about! Over those six years, video has changed a lot for marketing teams. You can no longer rely on just one or two high-budget videos; you need a lot of video content (without sacrificing quality) to hold your audience’s attention. This shift has created several challenges for marketing teams: 1. Per-project pricing gets expensive at scale. 2. Projects often change (even on the day of the shoot), leading to scope creep and surprise invoices. 3. Repurposing videos later requires a whole separate quoting process. 4. Bringing video production in-house can be just as expensive. That’s why I’m excited to announce a new rebrand for Capture and how we are moving to a flat-rate, unlimited offer. Our two new plans, ALL-IN and EDIT-ONLY, are designed specifically to solve these problems. Get all the videos and video editing you need for a simple flat rate. Check out the website for more details! Our goal is to make video easy for your marketing team, and this rebrand strengthens our mission even further. I’m excited to start promoting this over the coming months and can’t wait to see what the next six years bring for my business!

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"FB mikestoneallstateagency IG mikestoneagency LI mikestone4336 🚨You're being USED. 🚨 Let me break it down for you: advertising is powerful because it taps into our subconscious. Mountain Dew doesn’t spend $7 million on a Super Bowl ad to make a quick sale the next day—they’re embedding their brand in your mind. So when you’re standing at the gas station, staring at the drink cooler, your brain says, “Oh yeah, Mountain Dew!” That’s not an accident—that’s intentional branding. This isn’t just for billion-dollar companies. As agents, small business owners, or entrepreneurs, the same principles apply. You’re not just selling today; you’re building trust and familiarity for when your audience is ready to buy. Social media is your Super Bowl ad—it’s your chance to be top of mind. Post consistently, engage authentically, and show up in your audience’s feed so when they’re ready to make a decision, your name is the first that comes to mind. It’s not about being pushy; it’s about staying present. Want to learn more about how to master the art of branding and make advertising work for you? Check out this episode of The Sales Factory podcast with Mike Stone where we dive into the strategies that keep your business thriving. 🔗 Do the smart thing - watch now at https://lnkd.in/eJdMpbQ3 #TheSalesFactory #Podcast #MikeStone #MountainDew #SuperBowl #AdvertisingTips #CoachCarroll #BrandBuilding #MarketingTips #TopOfMindAwareness #SmallBusinessSuccess"

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Hawk... you know... Should brands follow trends? As tempting it maybe on the virality of said trend... 1. Only if it fits the brand image and values. 2. Only if it is relevant and also has some value for the target audience. 3. Only if you are not following all trends all the time. 4. Only if you have some clever idea that is different from what other brands are doing in following such trend. Of course the nature of the trend is that we get on and stay as close to it without infringing copyright or open ourselves for lawsuits - but a lazy copy paste is not a good way. Put some effort, come up with a clever idea that taps into the trend. And no, for this particular trend, it's not a good fit for most of the brands. Sure some brands could - I can see a condoms (you know with extra lube), cough medicine (or dry mouth medicine if there is any) or .. I can't think of more, but I'd keep my brand away from this trend - unless we have a clever idea!!! ADWEEK attempts to answer. Check it out.

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In 2020 and 2021, I had my two best years as a freelance copywriter. I have a theory. (Here’s a pic of 2021 Terry—shorter hair, a little thinner around the cheeks, back in my Chicago private office space.) Well, two obvious reasons are we were all chronically online and had time on our hands. My theory is because I was creating content I wanted to see. Yes, I want to add value, build trust, build brand awareness and all the terms you learn from paid ad marketing courses. But I created videos, did live mini masterclasses, hosted an online game show, did podcast interviews. I also brought it back to my offers, newsletter, and to follow me on platforms. People were finding my content. Seeing my personality. Leads came in and then became clients. I still create, but not showing my face as much. This is something I’m looking to do more of. My point—for those reading and wondering what type of content I should do, how I can attract potential clients and meaningful relationships in your industry… Create content you like. If you force it because you think it’s what others want, it won’t feel genuine. Nobody can do it like you. Create things that you feel are missing and that you would enjoy. People will like it too—the people you want to do business and network with. Tell me, have you ever felt a post did better because you created it for you first? #freelance #contentcreators

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Want to increase the effectiveness of your sales and marketing? Make sure those two teams are talking to each other.

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Make it make sense. What is driving voters to support progressive-leaning ballot measures (think protecting abortion rights and raising the minimum wage) while voting for conservative candidates? My colleague Meisha Thigpen brings a behavioral lens to it. And the answer is kind of simple. As Meisha says, "few of us really understand how to “fix” the economy. Or Gaza. Or racism. I’d bet that even fewer people truly understand what their preferred political candidates will do about these issues". Whereas local issues are easier to understand and, importantly, easier to connect how the consequences will impact you and your life.

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Read this part twice, "in order to identify issues and THEN address them." Seek to understand and then to solve. Also...processes can be tested; communications can be tested. Not everything is/or requires a tech solution. #citizenexperience #equity #efficiency #bpr

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#SignalSpotting #TheComebackDarling 5 months ago, I shared with you that beloved designer, Zac Posen, was Gap's new EVP, Creative Director. I also shared this fun and smart collab with Jungle, literally the sound of TikTok for most of late winter and spring 🔗 https://lnkd.in/gn4N5gTN. Since then, they have: 👕 Overhauled its channels & experiences (animated + styled site update, new social channels and engagement and community builds) 👕 Dropped a limited edition white t-shirt dress (donned by actress, Anne Hathaway) avail only online and sold out PRE-ORDER in less than an hour. It doesn't even arrive for a few more months 🔗 https://lnkd.in/gEAkURSM 👕 Are rumored to be building a new Roblox experience though nothing concrete on this. They did launch an experience in 2022 that has since rebranded. 👕 Have an awesome and partially sold out collab with madhappy that just dropped a few days ago 👏 via Jenna Stone 🔗 https://lnkd.in/gF7xHWrw 👕 The clothes feel and look more styled, IMO. No doubt that the new leadership team brought in to reimagine the 360-experience gave runway for the styling as well. What do you think about a legacy brand making agile changes to keep up with the kiddos? I like it! (And I am an 80s sweatshirts and white-slat store design GAP girl)

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📌"Free" Brand Exposure Brand exposure just doesn't happen. And it's certainly not free. That Boom Washing Powder branded T-shirt worn by a the local vegetable seller while on her sales route through the local township would have never happened if not for well-thought distribution and promotion. Stop banking "free" exposure from just anyone/anything- even 8 year old Kenyan pupil, Ricca Pokot knows exposure isn't free 😂 😂 ! #marketing #sales #contentcreation

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Creative professionals are under pressure as they juggle remote teams, hybrid work models, and increasingly fast-paced deadlines, leading to burnout. The traditional "command and control" leadership style is no longer effective. Creatives need guidance, mentorship, and genuine investment in their growth. Clear goal setting and a strategic approach to project management are key to their success. #Leadership #coaching #mentorship #creative #guidance

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Whenever I'm told by agency/client that we don't have the capacity to pull off a killer lil' campaign, I reference Liquid Death. Right now (09/04/24), they have 4 active mini-to-medium pieces running. Two separate merch collabs with NASCAR and Bad Birdie, a #HotFudgeSundae water with Van Leeuwen Ice Cream, and their summer giveaway of an L-39 Aerojet. Every can purchased gets you an entry at winning "The Dehydrator." I'm at 326 entries. All that to say: you/we don't have to giveaway a jet. Find an unconventional collaborator, create (and advertise) a short-run of t-shirts and merch to generate some buzz, win customers, and be fun. Good work doesn't take much.

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When was the last time you really took a step back to look at your brand? A quick brand audit can reveal a lot about how you’re being perceived. Here’s my go-to checklist for making sure brands stay sharp and connected with their audience: 1. Know Your Audience Are you reaching the people you set out to serve? Look at who’s engaging with your content and if their needs still match your brand’s message. 2. Check Visual Consistency Do your logo, colors, and fonts stay consistent across platforms? Even small changes can weaken brand recognition. 3. Review Content Quality Take a scroll through your recent posts. Is the tone right? Is it engaging? Quality content builds trust. 4. Listen to Feedback Scan through customer reviews and comments. Any patterns? Feedback is a goldmine for spotting perception gaps. 5. Spot the Competition Are you standing out? Understand what makes you unique and make sure it’s front and center. 6. Revisit Your Mission Is your brand’s story still relevant? Your audience wants to connect with a purpose - make sure yours is clear. 7. Optimize Your Online Presence Run an SEO check to see if your brand is easy to find and accurately represented. These simple steps help keep your brand fresh, consistent, and aligned with what your audience really wants. #Branding #BrandedMerch #BrandedMerchandise

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:: REPUTATION IS EVERYTHING. IT'S ALSO YOUR BRAND :: Tune into my conversation with Bob Cutler, expert mixologist & restauranteur, and discover why a strong reputation and the buzz when you’re not in the room truly define your brand’s power.

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Ok this hits home in a lot of ways. As a small nimble studio we've had the immense fortune to successfully work on a wide variety of projects. And yet we still get that question of "yeah but have you done THIS?" One of the most inspiring campaigns we worked on, and the one I'm most proud of, was the Love Your Butt campaign for colon cancer awareness month. Before we pitched, we didn't know a single thing about colon cancer, and I believe that helped us. We weren't afraid of "what hadn't worked" before. We viewed the challenge as a clean slate and wanted to create something that accomplished the goal: get people to talk about colon cancer and encourage action. By all accounts it was widely successful. Don't take my word for it. The CEO has said "HUGO gave us the most successful awareness campaign of all time!" Isn't that right, Michael Sapienza. Here's what I've learned...it doesn't matter if you're promoting a new season of Shark Week, encouraging conversations about colon cancer, wrapping a security vehicle, or selling a hotel room. The goal is ALWAYS the same: get people to pay attention. So, whether you know the topic inside and out, or not at all, approach it as a novice, ask "why not?" instead of saying "we can't," and finally, the HUGO secret sauce, create a space where the client feels safe, valued, and heard. That's Creative Therapy at work. So, yeah, Paul Suggett, it's more than ok to have never been there. We could use more never been there's. Preach it! And if you're curious about the Love Your Butt campaign, here it is: https://lnkd.in/eXP9Frps

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Absolutely love how simple and straight-to-the-audience this ad is! The "Ramen Programmer" perfectly captures everyday moments while showcasing the variety and convenience of Prime Video. Sometimes, the simplest ideas create the strongest impact. Courtesy: AdsOfTheWorld.com #BrilliantExecution #AmazonPrimeVideo #SimpleYetEffective

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Ever notice how agencies seem to lose their creative spark after the pitch? Here’s what most people don’t understand... The truth is, most creative agencies are lying to you. Not intentionally, but through a broken system that’s been normalized. You meet the A-team during pitches, then wonder where they disappeared to during the execution. But here’s what’s actually happening: The “disappearing creatives” aren’t running away with your money. You see, there are two types of creatives: 💡 The ones who dream up the big ideas 🚀 The ones who bring those ideas to life Yet most clients think they’re being bait-and-switched when the rockstar creatives from the pitch meetings seem to vanish. This might feel like wasted budget and unmet promises… like the magic you bought into was just an illusion. 🚨 But that’s actually how it SHOULD work 🚨 Those initial creatives? They’re like special forces. They drop in, create the breakthrough concept, then move on to the next mission. The execution team then takes those concepts and turns them into reality. They’re the ones who understand the daily grind, the platform constraints, and how to deliver quality content FAST. At Movement we call the former “conceptualizers.” The current ad agency model feels broken because most agencies pretend their big idea people will handle everything. 😒 Then clients feel betrayed when different teams take over 😩 The work suffers from lack of clear handoff processes 😭 Everyone loses because expectations weren’t managed ‼️But there’s a better way: Marketers win when creatives lean into their strengths. You get your bold, first-to-market ideas with seamless delivery and real results - no confusion, no compromise. Conceptualizers are valuable precisely because they’re able to maintain perspective and keep pushing creative boundaries. At Movement, we’re reimagining how agencies should work. Our structure ensures conceptualizers and execution teams work in sync ✨ 💡 Conceptualizers stay involved as directors 🚧 We build processes for clean handoffs between teams 🤝 Clients always know who’s responsible and why I truly believe marketers deserve agency partners who build honest processes around this truth rather than hiding it. What’s your take? Have you faced this challenge with agencies? I’d love to hear how it played out. #marketing #digitalmarketing #socialmedia

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