Psm: Professional Services Marketing

Deirdre and Damion are both gearing up for SMPS Amplify, and with Damion serving as one of this year’s conference chairs, we’re giving them a little breathing room this week.   In the meantime, we’re bringing back a listener favorite: “Finding Your Why & Trusting the Process: Rethinking Goals.” Originally released in February, it’s one of our top-performing episodes—and for good reason.

Your firm’s site greets visitors long before a proposal or a handshake. In this episode of the PSM Show, co-hosts Damion Morris and Deirdre Booth sit down with content strategist and copywriter Ben Culbreath to unpack what your homepage is really saying—and why that message may be turning prospects or future hires away.   Ben shares field-tested ways to move a reader from “nice photos” to “let’s talk,” beginning with a simple litmus test—searching for the word you—and a copy layout known as the F pattern. He explains how clear headlines, client-focused language, and specific calls to action guide visitors through services, culture, and career paths without forcing them to hunt for key details.   The conversation covers: • Positioning your firm through story instead of slogans • Using client interviews to surface authentic phrases that spark attention • Showing the how behind your work to add value and context to price discussions • Turning the careers page into a true recruiting tool that filters fit and boos

Executive presence might sound like a buzzword, but in this episode of the PSM Show, Damion Morris and Deirdre Booth get to the heart of what it really means. They break it down into practical, learnable elements: composure, communication, and appearance. Through honest conversation and real examples, they show how presence is not about being polished or loud—it’s about showing up with consistency, clarity, and intention. They explore how poise under pressure signals confidence, why language shapes perception, and how your physical presence—including in virtual meetings—affects how others receive you. Deirdre shares insights from coaching leaders across the AEC space and offers advice for those navigating early leadership roles, especially women and introverts. This episode also touches on personal branding, emotional regulation, and the mindset shifts that help professionals move from reacting to leading. Whether you’re already in a leadership seat or aiming for one, this conversation offers guidance on how

What does it take to lead with purpose, authenticity, and impact in the AEC industry? In this special episode of The PSM Show, co-host Damien Morris reflects on receiving the 2025 Leonardo Award from SMPS Los Angeles—a prestigious honor recognizing a career built on vision, creativity, and service. Joined by co-host Deirdre Booth, Damien shares the personal and professional milestones that shaped his leadership journey, the mentors who inspired him, and the importance of lifting others along the way. From finding your strengths to building engaged teams, mentoring with intention, and creating meaningful change in your firm, this episode is full of real talk and practical insights for marketers at every stage of their careers.

What does it take to move from marketing manager to CMO in the AEC industry? In this episode, we talk with Jennifer Haferbecker, founder of On Your Market Set Go, about the mindset shifts, strategic thinking, and evolving expectations that shape today’s marketing leaders. Jennifer shares how marketing teams can support firm growth, influence business decisions, and build internal alignment—especially during times of change. We also explore the rise of the fractional CMO model, the expanding role of marketing in mergers and acquisitions, and the importance of showing up as a strategic partner at every level. Whether you’re leading a team or looking to grow into your next role, this conversation offers real guidance for building a meaningful and future-ready career.

What if your biggest career breakthrough isn’t about a title or a checklist, but about learning to observe and adapt? In this episode, we talk with Joanna Kozłowski, strategist, coach, and founder of Resolute Consulting, about how to take charge of your own growth—even when no one’s handing you the playbook. Joanna shares what it means to become an anthropologist of your own career, how to decode workplace culture, and why marketers need to connect professional development to business outcomes. With roots in adult education and a deep background in AEC marketing and BD, Joanna brings sharp insights and plenty of real-world advice for building confidence, telling better stories, and showing up with purpose.

Coaching a team for interviews is about more than polishing presentations. It is about protecting confidence, creating emotional safety, and helping people show up as the best version of themselves. In this episode, Deirdre Booth and Damien Morris dive into how to coach the coaches by training leaders to give feedback that grows people instead of tearing them down. They explore what it means to coach with empathy, how to time feedback for maximum impact, and how to adapt coaching styles to different personalities. Whether you are leading interview prep or stepping into coaching for the first time, this conversation will give you fresh tools to support your teams when it matters most.

Let’s get real—shortlist interviews are high-pressure, high-stakes moments where everything you’ve built—your strategy, story, and team—comes down to one shot. In this episode, Damion Morris and Deirdre Booth unpack what it really takes to show up in the room and deliver. This isn’t a conversation about perfect slide decks or canned responses. It’s about the human side of the interview—the mindset, the chemistry, and the culture that drives real connection. From frameworks and firm culture to the psychology of safety and the power of storytelling, Damion and Deirdre get into the details of how great teams prep—and why preparation isn’t just logistics, it’s leadership. You’ll hear practical strategies for coaching, team building, and managing competing priorities. You’ll learn why slides shouldn’t be your crutch, how to help technical staff feel safe and confident, and why Q&A is often the make-or-break moment. And yes, you’ll hear what happens when the wheels fall off—and what it takes to get them back on

In this episode of The PSM Show, Deirdre Booth goes one-on-one with longtime friend and bold brand-builder Nicole Posten, founder and principal of On Point Architecture. Based in Mesa, Arizona, Nicole launched her firm while on maternity leave—baby on one hip, CAD drawings on the screen, and zero interest in playing it safe. Nicole brings the same energy to her marketing as she does to her design work: unapologetically real, fiercely professional, and refreshingly human. From naming her firm “On Point” to embracing a brand voice that’s quirky, brassy, and undeniably her, Nicole shares how authenticity has been the not-so-secret weapon behind her 75% repeat client rate and year-over-year business growth.   This is a masterclass in doing business your way—and making no apologies for it. If you’ve ever struggled to find your brand voice or felt the pressure to blend in, Nicole’s story is your permission slip to stand out.

Success isn’t just about working hard—it’s about working smart. In this episode, Deirdre Booth sits down with Rachel Charlton, founder of Sticky Communications, to explore seven lessons she wished she had learned sooner in her AEC career. They break down the power of taking initiative, how to lead with purpose, and why understanding the why behind your work can shape both your career and workplace relationships. Rachel also shares how young professionals can navigate challenges like balancing expectations, avoiding burnout, and using data-driven insights to gain influence. Beyond career strategy, they dig into the mindset shifts that can make all the difference—how to advocate for yourself, step out of your comfort zone, and turn rejection into redirection. Whether you’re new to AEC or looking to take your career to the next level, this episode offers real-world advice to help you grow and succeed.

Sticking to goals is easy when motivation is high—but what happens when that initial spark fades? In the third installment of our goal-setting series, Deirdre and Damion explore how to stay connected to your goals by digging into the why behind them. They discuss the difference between setting goals for external validation versus personal fulfillment and how aligning with your deeper purpose leads to lasting progress. They also break down the role of self-awareness in navigating change and how external feedback can reveal blind spots, strengths, and unexpected opportunities. By paying attention to both internal motivation and outside perspective, you can gain a clearer picture of what truly matters and adjust your path with confidence. Finally, they discuss the art of letting go—learning to trust the bigger picture, even when things don’t go as planned. Whether you’re questioning a goal or facing setbacks, this episode offers a refreshing take on staying flexible, focused, and connected to what really drives

In the second episode of our goal-setting series, Deirdre and Damion rethink traditional success by shifting the focus from achievement to transformation. Instead of chasing goals for the sake of external recognition, they explore how goals should serve as stepping stones toward personal growth. They introduce the NICE goal framework as an alternative to traditional SMART goals, highlighting the importance of setting goals that align with personal values and long-term vision. Through personal stories and practical strategies, they share how discipline and consistency play different roles in success, why sustainable progress matters more than rigid perfectionism, and how self-awareness can reshape the way we set and pursue goals. This conversation offers a fresh perspective on goal setting, emphasizing who you become in the process—not just what you accomplish.

New year, fresh start? Maybe. But let’s face it: the pressure to set ambitious resolutions and overhaul your life on January 1st is overwhelming—and often counterproductive. In this episode, hosts Damion and Deirdre take a deep dive into the mindset shift we all need: moving from hustle culture to a life that’s fulfilling, intentional, and aligned with what truly matters. Drawing from their personal journeys, the hosts explore why societal expectations around goal-setting can lead to burnout and frustration, and how to approach 2025 with clarity and balance instead. They challenge the conventional “new year, new you” narrative and replace it with a focus on how you want to feel and who you want to become. Whether you’re navigating career milestones, striving for personal growth, or simply trying to reclaim some peace in a chaotic world, this episode is filled with inspiration and actionable ideas. The discussion touches on the importance of balance, the value of joy and connection, and how to make progress wi

This episode marks the transition of longtime co-host Frank Lippert as he steps away to focus on his role as Director of Strategy at Delve Underground. For the past three years, Frank has been a trusted voice for candid, honest conversations about leadership, marketing, and the human side of professional services. His reflections on this journey offer valuable insights on authentic leadership, succession planning, and navigating change — themes that every professional can relate to. But as one chapter closes, another begins. The PSM Show is proud to welcome its new co-host, Damion Morris, a proven marketing leader from PCL Construction known for his innovative thinking, dynamic presence, and ability to spark meaningful conversations. Together with co-host Deirdre, Damion promises to bring fresh energy, bold ideas, and timely discussions on the topics that matter most to today’s professionals. Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com

In this episode, Deirdre sits down with Uniqueka Walcott, a renowned writer and speaker, to discuss personal branding, career ownership, and workplace culture. Known as the "Billion Dollar Bid Writer," Uniqueka shares her journey of crafting a strong personal brand through strategic communications and offers insights from her experience to help individuals embrace authenticity and boost visibility. The conversation highlights pivotal career moments, emphasizing self-guidance and the importance of a supportive network. Uniqueka addresses challenges in career ownership, including mindset shifts and actionable feedback, and stresses the necessity of recognizing when change is needed. Strategies for overcoming obstacles and cultivating a workplace culture of mutual respect are also explored. Key takeaways include rejecting disrespect, being discerning with feedback, and embracing proactive change, providing listeners with practical insights to advance their personal branding and career growth.   Uniqueka Wal

Cause Marketing is where A/E/C firms partner with non-profits to develop campaigns that do good things for the community, help the non-profit and their cause, and advance the brand and goodwill of the company investing in it. PSM Show cohost Frank Lippert talks to Jodi Sommers of Jodi Sommers Marketing and Megan Falkenstein of Sponsors, Inc. to learn more about what goes into doing great cause marketing—the kind of campaigns where everyone benefits and everyone wins.   Jodi Sommers, CPSM, Jodi Sommers Marketing Jodi Sommers spent the past twenty-five years providing her expertise to a diverse array of AEC firms. With a bachelor’s degree in marketing from the University of Florida, she has dedicated her career to the art of marketing ever since. Jodi is a Certified Professional Services Marketer and a LEED Green Associate. She served as the President of the Southwest Oregon Chapter of the American Marketing Association and led a sustainable business organization in Eugene, Oregon for three years. In 2023, Jodi

Frank sits down with Laurie Lumish, Principal and Director of Marketing and Business Development at Degenkolb Engineers, and CFO Maury Ballif to explore the secrets of building a strong working relationship that sets a new industry standard. In this engaging conversation, you'll gain practical advice on enhancing your role within the company, developing empathy, mutual understanding, and fostering seamless collaboration between marketing and finance teams. Laurie and Maury address common challenges and offer strategies for overcoming them. Their combined experience provides valuable lessons for any professional aiming to strengthen team dynamics. Tune in for actionable tips to build your internal partnerships and achieve outstanding results.   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Frank and Deirdre share their insights on making the most out of your professional conference experience. They discuss strategic networking, setting realistic expectations, and engaging effectively with speakers. You'll also learn about the importance of taking notes and adhering to proper conference etiquette, especially during the final keynote session. Whether you're new to conferences or a seasoned pro, this episode is filled with valuable tips to enhance your participation and takeaway.   Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com 

Coffman Engineers is known for having some of the most talented, long-standing, happy marketers in A|E|C. And Chad Heimbigner, COO, and Board Director, is part of the reason why. From his heartfelt servant leadership to collaborative partnerships to lifelong learning, Chad embodies the best traits of a strong technical leader who stands by the team. Deirdre, Kate, and Chad talk about what makes a leader advocate and how to build an intentional, positive marketing/BD/leadership culture.   Coffman Engineers is a multidiscipline engineering consulting firm with almost 800 team members in 21 offices across the United States. Chad is also an active volunteer with several community organizations and serves on the University of Idaho Civil and Environmental Engineering Advisory Board.   Resources: Chad Heimbigner - LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chad-heimbigner-96b76131/  Coffman Engineers - www.coffman.com  Gonzaga University, Women Lead Conferences - https://www.gonzaga.edu/school-of-leadership-studies/le

Knowing what you know now, what advice would you give to your younger self? Deirdre Booth and Kate Robinette swap professional and personal advice in this fireside chat. If you have advice to share, please post to our social media pages on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram #psmshow! Resources: Burnout: The Secret to Unlocking the Stress Cycle, by Emily and Amelia Nagoski (available on Amazon.)  First, Break All the Rules: What the World's Greatest Managers Do Differently, by Marcus Buckingham (available on Amazon) Citizenship in a Republic (The Man in the Arena), by Theodore Roosevelt Music by RomanSenykMusic on Pixabay. www.pixabay.com