John and Reena talk with Dave Jackson (The School of Podcasting and Ask The Podcast Coach) about building podcast communities beyond Facebook. We discuss Heartbeat, a platform that offers simple tools for managing groups, courses, and memberships. We share what works, what doesn’t, and how to keep your audience engaged without juggling too many platforms. If you’re interested in creating a community that feels more connected and under your control, this episode offers practical insight from podcasters who’ve been there. Mentioned: - https://schoolofpodcasting.com/ - https://www.youtube.com/user/personalpodcastcoach (YouTube) - https://www.heartbeat.chat/ (community app) – – What's Up! is the new show featuring John and Reena catching up on the latest streams, memes, and daydreams. It's like the office watercooler for people who don't go to an office. Copyright ©2025 Lilly Studios, All Rights Reserved. Contact John 👉 https://LillyStudios.com Contact Reena 👉 https://bettercalldaddy.com/

Kasey Riley of The Fat Plant Society shares how she turned moss into a design material that supports well-being, cuts noise, and boosts aesthetics. She explains the science behind forced-dormancy moss installations, why no watering is needed, and how installations absorb VOCs and reduce echo. Hear stories of client reactions, installation logistics and cost—about $115 per sq ft including frame—and how lightweight panels hang as art. Learn sustainable sourcing practices, design strategies like pin mounting logos over moss, and why letting nature feel chaotic is actually calming for our brains. Kasey can be reached online at https://thefatplantsociety.com _ _ Sign Criteria is hosted by John Lilly and Reena Friedman-Watts. For guest or sponsorship inquiries visit https://www.signcriteria.com

Heidi Wolfe from Wolfe Makes Art joins us to talk about her shift from art educator to full-time sign painter and muralist. She breaks down how hand-painted signs bring personality and history to modern streetscapes, and why they still matter in a digital world. Heidi shares what it’s like working with clients who don’t yet understand the value of craftsmanship—and how she bridges that gap through education and advocacy. We talk about the role of signage in walkable downtowns, what makes a design work (or fail), and how good signs can shape the identity of a place. Heidi can be reached via email: wolfemakesart@gmail.com _ _ Sign Criteria is hosted by John Lilly and Reena Friedman-Watts. For guest or sponsorship inquiries visit https://www.signcriteria.com

The latest cover of Signs of the Times—featuring a young man with blue hair and black nail polish—sparked a firestorm in a Facebook group of sign pros. But beneath the online outrage lies a deeper issue: Who’s really building the next generation of sign makers? In this solo episode of Sign Criteria | Branding for the Built Environment, John examines the labor crisis in the sign industry—from understaffed shops and aging workforces to broken recruiting practices and lopsided pay scales. Drawing from his years in fabrication, design, and project management, he lays out a practical and passionate case for rethinking how we attract, train, and retain creative talent. If you’ve ever asked why job ads don’t work, why turnover is so high, or why talented designers and installers keep leaving the industry—this episode connects the dots. John shares bold, workable solutions: modular training, transparent job listings, housing for new recruits, and a call to recruit the creatives, the misfits, the self-taught artists—the so-called weirdos. Highlights include: - The real reason sign installers are hard to find - Why creatives are the missing piece in today’s workforce - How to write a job ad that actually works - The overlooked power of flexibility, transparency, and incentives - Why it’s time to ditch old assumptions about who belongs in this field If you care about the future of signage, recruiting smarter, or simply believe creative people deserve a place to thrive—this is an episode you won’t want to miss. _ _ Sign Criteria is hosted by John Lilly and Reena Friedman-Watts. For guest or sponsorship inquiries visit https://www.signcriteria.com

In this episode of Sign Criteria | Branding for the Built Environment, Reena and John explore the overwhelming, electrifying world of New York City signage—from pulsing Coca-Cola billboards to quirky corner shops and subway confusion.   Reena shares highlights from her recent overnight trip to NYC, where the signs of Times Square left a strong impression. John breaks down the tech behind dynamic LED displays and explains how robotic arms give static signage a living, breathing feel. The duo then contrasts high-budget brand displays with tiny mom-and-pop stores squeezed into closet-sized spaces—and ponders how any of them survive Times Square rent.   They dig into the true role of signage in chaotic environments: wayfinding. Why do some airports or cities still fail to guide people clearly, even with signs everywhere? And what can designers do better? The episode wraps with a look at architectural landmarks like the Oculus and the memorial near Ground Zero, examining how form, emotion, and environment all shape the experience of public spaces.   Highlights include: - The science and spectacle of animated LED billboards - Street-level contrasts between major brands and micro-shops - Signage as orientation: lessons from airports and city centers - Why bad signage frustrates even signage professionals - Architectural inspiration from NYC’s Oculus and 9/11 Memorial Whether you’re a sign designer, urban explorer, or simply love walking through big cities, this episode uncovers how signage and space combine to tell powerful stories. _ _ Sign Criteria is hosted by John Lilly and Reena Friedman-Watts. For guest or sponsorship inquiries visit https://www.signcriteria.com

Step into the world of zombie podcasts—shows long inactive but still lurking online—and ghost podcasts—buried episodes hiding in active feeds. In this episode, we preview SpekeFest, a zombie-themed podcast conference held at the National Museum of Funeral History in Houston. Event organizer Freddy Cruz shares how he brought this eerie idea to life, despite having no prior experience in event planning. From there, the conversation searches into the soul of podcasting: Can AI-generated audio ever match the nuance and legacy of human-made shows? Reena and John unpack the cultural and creative value of pre-AI podcast content, reflect on their own “undead” projects, and argue for preserving podcasting’s human roots. Lastly, we talk burnout, podfading, and the pressure to publish on schedule—and why forgiveness and focus are key to longevity. Whether you’re a longtime podcaster, a lapsed creator, or just podcast-curious, this episode explores what it means to keep your voice alive in an ever-evolving medium. Topics include: - What qualifies as a zombie or ghost podcast - Behind the scenes of planning a first-time podcast conference - Why older, human-created content still matters - The pressure of podfading and how to overcome it - Niche, marketing, and staying the course in podcasting Plus: Why now’s the time to reclaim the “zombie podcast” label and wear it with pride. _ _ What's Up! is the new show featuring John and Reena catching up on the latest streams, memes, and daydreams. It's like the daily watercooler for people who don't go to an office. Copyright ©2025 Lilly Studios, All Rights Reserved. Contact John 👉 https://LillyStudios.com Contact Reena 👉 https://bettercalldaddy.com/

Ted Redmer, Senior Digital Technology Manager at Alliance Franchise Brands, shares how sign shops can stay ahead by thinking creatively about everyday tools. Starting on a farm and ending up in sign tech leadership, Ted walks through major shifts—from weeding vinyl by hand to full-scale digital printing. We talk about where technology is headed, especially around automation and workflow tools that help handle low-quality customer files. Ted explains why smaller shops hesitate to invest in high-end automation, and how that compares to the freedom larger independents enjoy. We also get into direct-to-substrate printers that make ADA Braille signs without drilling, opening new ways to create value. Ted talks frankly about the installer shortage, which led his team to build an installer-only franchise. If you’re in the industry or buy signs regularly, this episode will sharpen your view of what’s possible—and profitable—when you pair tech with creativity. _ _ Sign Criteria is hosted by John Lilly and Reena Friedman-Watts. For guest or sponsorship inquiries visit https://www.signcriteria.com

David Martino didn’t plan to run a sign business—he started with street art, then picked up formal training in art and architecture. Today, with 45 years under his belt, he runs Martino Signs, handling everything from small letters to giant sculptures, and even film props. David calls sign makers “renaissance men,” juggling design, fabrication, code compliance, brand standards, marketing, and installs. Each job is different, and no day looks the same. He’s built a reputation by choosing clients who align with his values, and avoiding the ones who cut corners or bring chaos. We get into why the sign industry struggles to attract and keep talent—especially when it demands high-skill, hands-on work with little media spotlight. David also shares why sign people often seem to have ADHD, take creative risks, and thrive in unpredictable environments. He opens up about jobs he’s turned down for moral reasons, the physical toll of the work, and why most people enter this field by accident—not design. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to run a creative sign shop, this episode will give it to you straight.

Before dating apps and algorithmic everything, there was Craigslist—a lawless digital bazaar where you could find your next gig, your next apartment, or your next girlfriend (sometimes all three). In this episode, John and Reena swap Craigslist war stories, from surprise TV jobs to a 3-year relationship that began with a photo-less personals ad. It’s messy, hilarious, and surprisingly human. Also: why Craigslist personals really shut down. _ _ What's Up! is the new show featuring John and Reena catching up on the latest streams, memes, and daydreams. It's like the daily watercooler for people who don't go to an office. Copyright ©2025 Lilly Studios, All Rights Reserved. Contact John 👉 https://LillyStudios.com Contact Reena 👉 https://bettercalldaddy.com/

Ozempic is changing bodies in ways no one asked for—droopy faces, limp hands, and now… what they’re calling the “Ozempic penis.” From school drop-offs to cosmetic regrets, this one is unfiltered, weird, and weirdly relatable. Story: https://www.dailymail.co.uk/health/article-14802563/Im-suffering-Ozempic-penis-latest-bizarre-effect-caused-weight-loss-drugs.html What's Up! is the new show featuring John and Reena catching up on the latest streams, memes, and daydreams. It's like the daily watercooler for people who don't go to an office. Copyright ©2025 Lilly Studios, All Rights Reserved. Contact John 👉 https://LillyStudios.com Contact Reena 👉 https://bettercalldaddy.com/

Skincare meets gut science. John and Reena talk blood treatments, eye bags, Botox, poop transplants, and survival. Health gets weird. The conversation stays honest. —— What's Up! is the new show featuring John and Reena catching up on the latest streams, memes, and daydreams. It's like the daily watercooler for people who don't go to an office. Copyright ©2025 Lilly Studios, All Rights Reserved. Contact John 👉 https://LillyStudios.com Contact Reena 👉 https://bettercalldaddy.com/

John and Reena talk about why presence matters more than format. We talk about how audiences connect with people, not schedules. There’s also a conversation about episode numbers, back catalogs, and the pressure to be everywhere online. If you’ve felt pulled toward doing more instead of showing up how you want, this will hit home. —— What's Up! is the new show featuring John and Reena catching up on the latest streams, memes, and daydreams. It's like the daily watercooler for people who don't go to an office. Copyright ©2025 Lilly Studios, All Rights Reserved. Contact John 👉 https://LillyStudios.com Contact Reena 👉 https://bettercalldaddy.com/

In this raw and honest conversation, John and Reena get into the emotional journey of personal transformation, mental health, and resilience. From confronting rare diseases to reckoning with mental health misdiagnoses, the discussion explores how labels can both hinder and help, and what it really takes to reclaim agency over your life. Listeners hear compelling stories — including a father’s struggle with his son’s rare muscular dystrophy, a giant defying expectations, and a moment of awakening at the suicide prevention hotline — that challenge traditional views of diagnosis, self-worth, and healing. This episode is about breaking patterns, rejecting limiting beliefs, and stepping into your best self, even if you haven’t met them yet. And, then there's the guy who charged $250 to edit a podcast ... follow along for the conclusion to this story. —— What's Up! is the new show featuring John and Reena catching up on the latest streams, memes, and daydreams. It's like the daily watercooler for people who don't go to an office. Copyright ©2025 Lilly Studios, All Rights Reserved. Contact John 👉 https://LillyStudios.com Contact Reena 👉 https://bettercalldaddy.com/

In this episode of Lilly, John Lilly asks “What do Christianity and Christian Nationalism really have in common — besides the name?” He breaks down how a spiritual faith rooted in humility and love is being hijacked by a political movement using the same branding. For marketers, founders, and small business owners, this is a crash course in how powerful messaging can get weaponized — and why brand confusion at this level isn’t just misleading, it’s dangerous. No politics, just branding clarity. Book a free session to learn more about branding at https://LillyStudios.com

In this episode of Lilly, John Lilly breaks down the crucial difference between your logo and your brand — and why confusing the two can sabotage your business. Using everything from ancient pottery to cattle brands and luxury cars as examples, John illustrates why your brand is your reputation, not your design. He explains why slapping on a new logo won’t magically change public perception, and how small businesses can refresh their image without alienating loyal customers. A must-listen for anyone considering a “rebrand” and hoping to grow their audience without losing their core. Book a free session to learn more at https://LillyStudios.com

Transform your marketing materials with one simple yet powerful concept: intended viewing distance.  This episode of Lilly reveals the secrets to designing eye-catching visuals that deliver measurable results. Learn how to optimize your signage, vehicle wraps, and more for maximum impact. Get ready to upgrade your marketing strategy! Book a free session to learn more at https://LillyStudios.com

In this episode of Lilly, John Lilly shares a behind-the-scenes rant about the growing trend of AI-powered podcast guest requests — and the frustrating fallout when people don’t show up. John discusses the rise of poorly targeted AI pitches, the real-world consequences of flaky communication, and the importance of respecting people’s time in business. Plus, he teases an upcoming episode featuring a fascinating small business owner using local influencers to grow a raw dog food brand. Whether you’re a podcaster or a small business owner navigating AI tools, this honest take will leave you thinking twice about how you manage outreach and appointments. Book a free session to learn more at https://LillyStudios.com

Dearly Beloved … We are gathered here today to get through this thing called life. Join John and Gary for a candid conversation that tackles the unexpected—and often absurd—challenges life throws our way.  From navigating toxic workplaces to processing grief in the age of social media, this episode is packed with relatable moments of frustration, poignant reflections, and laugh-out-loud moments of dark humor. This episode is not for the faint of heart but for anyone who needs a reminder that you're not alone in the struggle. Please share with someone who might relate. ✨ R.I.P. Don C. Taylor, April 27, 2025 ✨ Learn more at https://LillyStudios.com

🎙️ Lilly with John Lilly – Episode: “The End of SEO As We Know It” Is traditional SEO dead? In this episode, John Lilly takes a sledgehammer to the old-school strategies of keyword stuffing, reverse engineering, and algorithm-chasing, making a bold case for why authenticity is the new SEO—especially in a post-AI internet. 🤖 Tune in to hear John’s no-BS take on: - 🚫 Why keyword-stuffed content is becoming irrelevant in the age of AI - ⚡ How “Soulless Electrical Output” is ruining digital media - 🎯 What humans (and AI) actually want from your content - 🧠 How AI-driven sentiment analysis is reshaping how we discover information Whether you’re a marketer, creator, or just trying to cut through the noise online, this is your wake-up call to stop gaming the system and start creating real, human content. 🧵 Bonus: Hear John compare SEO manipulation to the observer effect—and why that matters more than ever in the new content era. Book a free session to learn more at https://LillyStudios.com

Why Signage, Not SEO, Might Be Your Brand’s Secret Weapon by John Lilly If you’ve been following the podcast lately, you’ve probably noticed a recurring theme: authenticity wins—in marketing, in content, and even in physical spaces. Tuesday, April 23: In our first episode of this theme, I broke down how to think like a designer when it comes to signage. It’s not just about slapping a logo on a wall—it’s about understanding how people move through spaces and creating visual cues that make their journey intuitive. Good signage reduces confusion, boosts brand recognition, and, yes, makes life easier for everyone. Wednesday, April 24: In the second episode, we zoomed out and looked at signage through the lens of marketing. Compared to paid ads, influencer posts, or social media campaigns, signage is one of the most cost-effective tools in your arsenal. It works 24/7, doesn’t rely on algorithms, and—bonus—it gets you off your screen and into the real world. Whether it’s vehicle wraps, window vinyl, or monument signs, this channel pays dividends over time. Thursday, April 25: And in the third episode, we got a little controversial: SEO is broken. Well, not broken—just over. With AI’s rise, search engines are now smart enough to sniff out manipulative, keyword-stuffed content. What they’re prioritizing instead is what humans have always wanted: content that feels real. That means less soulless optimization, and more honest conversation. So, what ties all these threads together? Whether it’s wayfinding, marketing, or content creation, the future belongs to those who are authentic. The good news? Signage—and any real-world expression of your brand—is one of the most authentic, high-ROI moves you can make. Book a free session to learn more at https://LillyStudios.com

🎙️ Lilly with John Lilly – Episode: “Why Signage Beats Social Media (Most of the Time)” Ever wonder why John Lilly can’t stop talking about signs? In this episode of Lilly, John breaks down why signage is the ultimate underutilized marketing tool for small business owners—and how it’s often way more effective (and affordable) than digital ads. 🚚 From vinyl lettering on your work truck to massive logos on your building, John shares the real-world benefits of great signage, including: - 💸 How signage crushes social and paid ads in cost-per-thousand impressions (CPM) - 📍 Why good signage can justify the rent you’re paying on a physical location - 🔧 The thrill of seeing your brand come to life—from design to fabrication to installation - ✅ Why signs that work are simple, functional, and don’t point people to Facebook Whether you’re ready to scale up or just looking for better ways to get noticed without burning cash on clicks, this episode is your signage wake-up call. 🌳 Bonus: Hear John’s hot take on ugly signs—and why replacing them with trees might be the best marketing move yet. Book a free session to learn more at https://LillyStudios.com

In this episode of Lilly, host John Lilly flying-elbow drops into an unexpected masterclass in marketing—straight from the crowd signs at WrestleMania. Inspired by his son and creative partner Gary, John unpacks what small business owners can learn from how fans design signs that actually get seen on national TV. 👀 Whether you’re running a sign shop, opening a hot dog stand, or just want more eyes on your brick-and-mortar, you’ll walk away with real-world tips on: - 📍 Why location is everything—both in wrestling arenas and retail storefronts - 🧠 How simplicity and clarity win over clutter - 🎨 The power of high contrast, color, and size in your signage - 🧾 Crafting short, powerful messages that resonate with diverse audiences This episode is packed with fun storytelling, practical marketing wisdom, and visual strategy insights that every mom-and-pop shop can use. If you’ve ever wondered how to stand out in a crowd (literally), this one’s for you.   🛑 Don’t just hang a sign—make it unmissable. Book a free session to learn more at https://LillyStudios.com