Rebrand with RuthAnn

Hosted by RuthAnn Rafiq

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May 2026

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EN-US

About the show

Rebrand with RuthAnn is the podcast for women entrepreneurs building life-first businesses while navigating the messy middle of pivoting, growth, and change. Your host, RuthAnn Rafiq, is a brand and website designer who has worked with over 100 women on their brands since 2016. With solo episodes, guest experts, and past client interviews RuthAnn brings expertise, lessons, and insight on how to make big changes in your business while staying true to your values and building success on your terms.

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May 6, 202638 min

70: Beyond Heels and Powersuits: How to Find a Style That Actually Feels Like You with Fashion Expert Amy Salinger

Today's guest is fashion expert Amy Salinger, who brings 20 years of experience across television, editorial, and personal styling. She's worked with platforms including The Oprah Winfrey Show, The Today Show, and major national retailers. Whether you're like Andy in The Devil Wears Prada wondering "what makes you think I'm not interested in fashion?" or you're obsessed with all things style, this episode is a fun discussion about how fashion impacts your work and life. Amy shares how her method helps you find your personal style, how to incorporate great style into your everyday life, and get started with styling yourself. We talk about why Amy's methods work so well - they're not intimidating, but freeing, so you feel like the best version of yourself (even if that's not in high heels and power suits). Amy also opens up about her own rebrand journey - from working in-person as a New York City stylist to going 100% virtual in Rhode Island, where she's living her best life with a quieter, simpler approach to her fashion career. This is such a juicy episode - I hope you enjoy! Takeaways How Amy’s career in fashion began in Chicago and the Oprah Winfrey show Trying many different things to find what you love doing isn’t a waste of time, it’s essential to finding what you’re passionate about. Which comes first, the clothing or the confidence? Amy’s take is the clothing How to find the style that suits you best Why dressing for the here and now is so powerful How to get started with styling yourself - the 3 adjectives that will change how you view your clothes, buying outfits and simplifying your wardrobe. When Amy realized New York City was no longer the dream and rebranded her personal and professional life to Style Method Links Mentioned: Style Method Follow Amy on Instagram Amy's 4 Question Style Quiz View the Rebranding and Website Services Download the Free Guide “7 Quick + Easy Ways to Elevate Your Brand” Follow RuthAnn on Pinterest Say Hi on Instagram or tag @r_artspace Chapters 00:00 Introduction 02:02 Amy’s background in fashion and how her career started 12:24 Confidence through dressing and how to find your personal style 20:49 Getting started with styling yourself 28:16 Amy’s personal and professional rebrand 36:40 Connect with Amy and Outro

April 22, 202613 min

69: The Missing Link Between a Successful Rebrand and One That Falls Flat

In this episode, RuthAnn Rafiq explores why some rebrands hit high highs like million dollar years and sold out programs but others fail to deliver results. RuthAnn shares three effective marketing strategies to ensure a successful rebrand launch. She emphasizes the importance of a solid marketing plan, authentic engagement, and leveraging opportunities like giveaways, workshops, and guest appearances to attract and convert clients so you can not only be energized by how you show up but have peace of mind as you see your revenue increase. Topics Difference between branding and marketing Effective marketing strategies post-rebrand How to run a successful giveaway Leveraging workshops and training sessions Guesting on other platforms for exposure The Truth is: a rebrand won’t fix your business problems - but this will Links Mentioned: Anna Rapp View the Rebranding and Website Services Join RuthAnn’s newsletter Download the Free Guide “7 Quick + Easy Ways to Elevate Your Brand” Follow RuthAnn on Pinterest Say Hi on Instagram or tag @r_artspace Chapters 00:00 Understanding Branding vs. Marketing 02:48 Effective Marketing Strategies Post-Rebrand 08:31 The Importance of a Marketing Foundation 11:29 Recap and Final Thoughts

April 8, 202629 min

68: You Don't Need Headshots, You Need a Brand Shoot That Helps You Sell with Ashley Ice

Summary: Ashley Ice is the brand photographer behind all the beautiful new photos on my website and I’m so excited to have her on the show. She shares how to get photos you are obsessed with and the difference between headshots and a brand photoshoot (and WHY you need to know this before investing). We talk about how she works with her clients, what makes her process different, the 3 things you need to be ready for your own brand photoshoot as well as my own experience and much more. If you need to update your photos, you’re thinking of refreshing your images for your marketing or website, or you're just curious, this is the episode for you. Takeaways Ashley’s fine art background and wedding photography perfectly positions her to be an expert in brand photography A brand photoshoot should include 25% of your face and 75% of you working or doing your craft. Ashley’s process includes 2 preparation meetings which are crucial for a successful shoot. Ashley’s white glove experience offers everything you would need for your brand photoshoot from makeup and hair, to videography and iPhone video. Professional photos are an investment that can last 3-6 months for content and up to years for your website. Ashley shares the 3 things you need to prepare for your photoshoot Ongoing marketing support is essential for maximizing the value of your photos, which is a service Ashley is expanding into. Links Mentioned: Ashley Ice website Follow Ashley on Instagram House of Editorial View the Rebranding and Website Services Book a Free Discovery Call with RuthAnn Download the Free Guide “7 Quick + Easy Ways to Elevate Your Brand” Follow RuthAnn on Pinterest Say Hi on Instagram or tag @r_artspace Chapters 00:00 The Journey of Rebranding 02:55 From Weddings to Brand Photography 06:03 Understanding Brand Photography vs. Headshots 07:34 The Importance of Pre-Shoot Planning 08:29 The Role of Makeup in Brand Shoots 11:18 Working with Clients Remotely 14:13 The Value of Professional Brand Photography 17:31 Getting Started with Brand Photography 20:09 The Future of Ashley's Business

March 4, 202624 min

67: But Why? Behind the Scenes of My Own Rebrand and Business Name Change

This episode is special because instead of interviewing clients on their rebrand I get to share my own journey of rebranding! I’m talking about why I chose to rebrand now, the internal shifts that brought on this desire for change, and how I’m showing up in a more clear way to reflect where I am today with my brand and website business. I highlight the importance of authenticity, messaging, and how I’m embracing key factors that help me stand out as a designer. I also offer encouragement to other women in business who also may be feeling the internal misalignment of your visuals not matching your expertise and quality. I give you some ideas for how you can make them align along with a surprise giveaway for anyone who books a discovery call in March of 2026. Takeaways Rebranding is a reflection of internal growth and external evolution How renaming your business can take time and planning Highlighting what makes you unique helps you stand out Client partnership and ongoing support are key components I’m embracing in this new era The first step to rebranding is making a decision to rebrand or not Links Mentioned: The New Rebrand with RuthAnn Website Episode 62 Agency Model Shift Ashley Ice Photography Book a Free Discovery Call with RuthAnn and Enter the Giveaway View the Rebranding and Website Services Join Studio Notes for thoughts, insights, and encouragement in motherhood & entrepreneurship. Follow RuthAnn on Pinterest Say Hi on Instagram or tag @r_artspace Chapters 00:00 The Exciting Announcement of a Rebrand 02:44 Reflecting on the Journey to Rebranding 14:01 The Process of Redesigning the Website 17:20 How the Rebrand Benefits Listeners 21:38 Celebrating the Rebrand with a Giveaway

February 18, 202632 min

66: How a Rebrand Gave Actor Meg Salisbury the Confidence to Book More Roles

Summary In this conversation, RuthAnn interviews her past client Meg Salisbury where she shares her journey in acting and modeling and how her new website helped her gain more confidence and bookings. Meg discusses the importance of branding in her career, the investments she made in her “Glow Up Year” growth in 2025 (her rebrand being one of them!), and the confidence boost she experienced after her rebrand launched which included the new logo, brand, and website. The conversation also touches on the challenges of navigating the rebrand, the things you need to look out for when hiring a designer, and how Meg is positioned for growth in 2026 with her modeling and acting and also in her coaching for actors business. Takeaways Meg is an actor, model and mindset coach for actors specializing in helping them with nervous system regulation and subconscious reprogramming Branding is crucial for actors, especially with the rise of social media Investing in oneself can lead to significant growth and opportunities Meg's 'Glow Up Year' focused on making impactful investments in her career The rebranding process boosted Megan's confidence and professional image It's important to find a designer that aligns with your vision and style Outsourcing tasks outside your zone of genius can lead to better results Links Mentioned: Meg Salisbury Website Follow Meg on Instagram This Episode Blog Post with Megan's Rebrand Sign up for a Free Site Success Audit Book a Free Discovery Call with RuthAnn View the Rebranding and Website Services Download the Free Guide “7 Quick + Easy Ways to Elevate Your Brand” Follow RuthAnn on Pinterest Say Hi on Instagram or tag @r_artspace Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Meg's Journey 08:02 Outsourcing for Success 31:36 Outro

February 4, 202623 min

65: 10 Small Changes I'm Making for More Peace and Profit in 2026

In this episode, I'm sharing my journey towards achieving more peace in my personal life and increased profit in my business. As the owner of a boutique branding agency, I love the freedom and flexibility of being able to make small changes for a big impact and these things I'm sharing today have done just that. I discuss the changes I made at the start of 2026, including personal habits and professional strategies that have positively impacted my life and work. I emphasize the importance of self-care, mindfulness, and financial awareness, providing listeners with actionable insights to enhance their own lives and businesses. Takeaways I break down 5 personal changes I've made for more peace along with 5 professional changes in my small business for more profit Waking up before the kids is a small but huge win way for more peace and calm in your day Reading the Bible before bed has helped me center my thoughts. I'm letting go of social media pressure and keeping up with the news and both these things have contributed to less stress I eliminated credit card use to increase financial awareness. Regularly reviewing subscriptions can help save money. Working with one client at a time has improved my focus and profitability. Tracking metrics can allow you to identify what works and what doesn't allowing you to make adjustments that work Links Mentioned: Episode 62 Year in Review Ryze Coffee Sign up for a Free Site Success Audit Book a Free Discovery Call with RuthAnn View the Rebranding and Website Services Download the Free Guide “7 Quick + Easy Ways to Elevate Your Brand” Follow RuthAnn on Pinterest Say Hi on Instagram or tag @r_artspace Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Peace and Profit 02:45 RuthAnn's Background and Business Journey 05:24 Personal Changes for More Peace 13:40 Professional Changes for Increased Profit 21:09 Recap and Conclusion

January 21, 2026Episode 6420 min

64: How Long Does a Brand and Website Redesign Actually Take? (Less Time Than You Think)

In this episode, RuthAnn Rafiq discusses the intricacies of rebranding and website design, emphasizing the often underestimated time commitment involved–which is less than you think! She outlines her streamlined design process, which requires minimal client commitment, and highlights the importance of having a clear vision and trust in the designer and in the process. The conversation also covers the benefits of a successful rebrand, practical steps to initiate the process, and how she values and offers ongoing design support available post-rebrand. Takeaways Sometimes rebrands can take a long time - up to a year in some cases! Clients may be pleasantly surprised that their time commitment in my rebrand process is minimal An open mind and trust in the designer are crucial for success. Your brand is a foundational piece of your business. Post-rebrand, clients can expect increased engagement and inquiries. Deciding to rebrand is the first step to making it happen. I love supporting my clients after launch that’s why I offer ongoing monthly design support, if desired Links Mentioned: Sign up for a Free Site Success Audit Book a Free Discovery Call with RuthAnn View the Rebranding and Website Services Download the Free Guide “7 Quick + Easy Ways to Elevate Your Brand” Follow RuthAnn on Pinterest Say Hi on Instagram or tag @r_artspace Read full show notes Chapters 00:00 Understanding the Rebranding Process 03:50 The Reality of Time Commitment 10:28 What Sets My Design Process Apart 13:02 Key Requirements for a Successful Rebrand 15:41 The Impact of a Rebrand 17:03 Practical Steps to Initiate a Rebrand 19:08 Client Success Stories and Final Thoughts 20:34 Outro

January 7, 2026Episode 6318 min

63: Will Your Brand Help You Hit Your 2026 Goals? How To Know For Sure

Welcome to 2026! In this episode RuthAnn Rafiq discusses the importance of ensuring that your brand is ready to support your business goals for the year and the 5 all-important questions to evaluate whether your brand will help you hit your goals or hinder your marketing efforts. The conversation emphasizes the need for a strong brand foundation to achieve marketing success here now as we begin a new year and any time you’re wanting to make the right changes to see more conversion. Takeaways So you made goals for the new year - is your brand supporting you to achieve them? You can’t out-market a weak foundation The 5 questions to know whether or not your brand is working How to know if you should make changes now or wait 3 Options for what to do next I am the designer who wants you to succeed and would love to invite you to a free Discovery Call and help give you clarity on your next best step Links Mentioned: Sign up for a Free Site Success Audit Book a Free Discovery Call with RuthAnn View the Rebranding and Website Services Download the Free Guide “7 Quick + Easy Ways to Elevate Your Brand” Follow RuthAnn on Pinterest Say Hi on Instagram or tag @r_artspace Read full show notes Chapters 00:00 Setting the Stage for 2026 Goals 04:54 Assessing Your Brand's Readiness 11:02 Identifying Gaps and Taking Action 15:59 Next Steps for Brand Success 17:33 Outro

December 24, 202527 min

62: Letting Go of the Agency Model, Therapy, and Finding Our Dream Home: My 2025 Year in Review

Summary In this episode, RuthAnn reflects on her year, sharing the lessons learned and the wins celebrated in 2025. She discusses a big pivot in her business, hitting burnout, the importance of self-care, recognizing the seasons of life, and the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. RuthAnn also highlights her personal and professional achievements, including introducing new offers, homeschooling her son, and designing for 14 business owners this year. The episode serves as an encouraging reminder that (sometimes uncomfortable) growth and change are part of the journey. Takeaways Sharing the 3 big (and hard) lessons learned Celebrating 10 personal and professional wins This year, more than any other year in recent memory, I experienced big ups and downs in entrepreneurship How I overcame burnout and the specific things that helped me How introducing a new offer helped streamline my services Homeschooling my son has been a rewarding experience I gave back in the route of hosting a Brand + Website Giveaway Tracking my analytics has opened up growth opportunities Restarting my podcast has been a fulfilling endeavor My word for the year was possibility, and many goals were achieved Links Mentioned: Ep. 60 What to Do When Your Business Pivot Fails: A Guide to Course-Correcting ⁠ ⁠Download the Free Guide “7 Quick + Easy Ways to Elevate Your Brand”⁠ ⁠ ⁠View the Rebranding and Website Services ⁠ ⁠Book a Free Discovery Call with RuthAnn⁠ ⁠Say Hi on Instagram or tag @r_artspace⁠ ⁠Read full show notes Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Year in Review Overview 02:03 Lessons Learned in 2025 13:26 Celebrating Wins of 2025

December 10, 202543 min

61: Befriending the Competition: How Finding Your People in Your Industry Changes Everything with Allison Burns

In this engaging conversation, RuthAnn Rafiq and Allison Burns explore the surprising benefits of befriending competition in the design industry. While their conversation is design-industry specific, this concept can capture any industry you find yourself in. They discuss the benefits of building supportive relationships with peers, the importance of confidence in one's unique style, and the value of community over competition. The conversation also touches on the significance of sharing knowledge while maintaining boundaries, and the introduction of Allison's mentorship program, Anchor and Grow, designed to support new designers in their journey. They also discuss how to make connections and build relationships in an ease-filled way. Takeaways Befriending competition can lead to unexpected benefits. How RuthAnn struggled with befriending other designers in the past due to comparison Connection with peers in your industry is crucial for emotional support. Sharing knowledge can elevate the entire industry. Being an open book doesn’t mean you can’t have boundaries. Authentic relationships can lead to referrals and collaborations and unexpected opportunities Networking should be approached with authenticity and generosity. Every connection has the potential to lead to opportunities. Allison’s Design Mentorship provides tailored guidance for new designers and the opportunity to find and build friendships. Links Mentioned: Visit AllieMarieDesign.com Allison's Design Mentorship Anchor and Grow Follow Allison on Instagram View the Rebranding and Website Services Book a Free Discovery Call with RuthAnn Say Hi on Instagram or tag @r_artspace Download the Free Guide “7 Quick + Easy Ways to Elevate Your Brand” Read full show notes Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Friendly Competition 02:09 Allison's Design Journey 05:47 The Importance of Longevity in Business 08:36 Navigating Inspiration and Comparison 11:54 The Value of Timeless Design 12:38 Building Relationships in the Design Community 14:54 The Importance of Connection for Mental Health 16:24 Understanding the Reality of Creative Work 19:35 Community Over Competition 22:19 Building Genuine Client Relationships 24:55 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome 26:47 The Value of Sharing Knowledge 30:36 Finding Your Unique Business Approach 32:10 The Evolution of Professional Friendships 35:40 Making Connections in Your Industry 39:46 Introducing the Anchor and Grow Mentorship