Ep# 152: The biggest difference in small businesses is the business owner with Dr. Stefan Zavalin
Welcome to another exciting blog post, where I share insights from my recent podcast episode on the Hello Dorsey podcast. This time, I had an enlightening conversation with Stefan, a self-proclaimed professional unicorn, who has carved a niche for himself in the world of video marketing.
Meet Stefan: The Professional Unicorn
Stefan is not your typical video marketer. He proudly refers to himself as a professional unicorn, a testament to his belief that everyone has the potential to be unique and special. His mission is to help people convey their authentic selves on video, capturing their human side and creating engaging video marketing content.
Stefan's love for videos dates back to his middle school days. Despite pursuing a doctorate in physical therapy, he realized his passion for video and creativity was too strong to ignore. He champions the power of individuality and encourages people to communicate in their unique way.
The Power of Video in Today's World
As someone who has incorporated video into my 9 to 5 job, I found common ground with Stefan's love for video. I shared my experience of figuring out ways to record videos using Zoom and how people started asking me for training on recording standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Stefan emphasized the importance of video in the entrepreneurial world, especially in the era of Zoom. He pointed out that many people claim to be uncomfortable on camera during Zoom calls, but they are already on camera. According to Stefan, the real fear is judgment and criticism of their content, not being on camera.
Overcoming Limitations and Embracing Authenticity
Stefan shared his perspective on overcoming limitations and embracing authenticity in business. He used the metaphor of blindness to illustrate how people often underestimate their abilities when faced with obstacles. He shared his personal experience of preparing for a TEDx talk as a blind individual, highlighting how his vision limitation actually pushed him to overprepare and deliver a better presentation than those who relied on their scripts.
The Importance of Differentiation in Small Businesses
Stefan discussed the importance of differentiation in small businesses. He emphasized that while larger agencies may have more resources and expertise, small business owners can still offer unique value through their personal touch and individual experiences. He used the example of coaches, explaining that people choose coaches not just for their expertise, but also for the connection they feel with them as human beings.
Authenticity vs Humanity: The Taylor Swift Example
Stefan distinguished between authenticity and humanity, using Taylor Swift as an example. He explained that being authentic means being true to oneself, while showing humanity involves connecting with others on a deeper level. He encouraged small business owners to showcase their personality and unique traits to attract customers who resonate with their human side.
Uncovering Your True Self in Video Marketing
In terms of video marketing, Stefan advised listeners to be themselves, but acknowledged that it's a process of uncovering one's true self. He suggested that trying different things and being open to experimentation is key to finding your authentic voice in video marketing.
In conclusion, my conversation with Stefan was a deep dive into the world of video marketing, authenticity, and individuality. His insights serve as a reminder that in a world where everyone is trying to fit in, standing out could be your biggest asset.
Where to find Stefan:
Website: https://www.stefanzavalin.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092042015304
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stefan.zavalin/
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