Branding can seem like a key to a magical doorway that, once found, will unlock potential and momentum. Choosing the just-right words and images to convey the work you're doing feels both crucial and overwhelming. With Brand Something Beautiful, Steve Brock offered me clarity and encouragement, turning all of my second-guessing into a joyful journey of discovery. With his artist's eye, patient guidance, and laughter, he invites those of us doing work of our hearts to find the language and imagery we need to both deepen our understanding of what we're truly doing-that deep why-and to widen our reach and impact in ways that do feel, yes... a little bit magic.
- Naomi Kinsman, Illumineer & Founder of Creative Lift
I've had the chance to watch Steve Brock work with all kinds of clients, and honestly-he's one of the best brand strategists I've ever seen. He listens deeply, makes connections no one else would think of, and somehow turns branding into something not just practical, but powerful, simple, and even fun. Now he's captured that same magic in this book-a true gift for anyone wanting to build their brand. I immediately thought: every writer, artist, photographer, and entrepreneur I know needs a copy.
- Barbara Takata, Executive Vice President, Masterworks
Two great obstacles of entrepreneurship are understanding what you do and getting others to understand what you do. These both require someone or some process to help you move from that tornado-brain, tongue-tied hell to a place of clarity. Steve Brock is that someone and, in Brand Something Beautiful, he offers us one of the most empowering gifts a creator can receive---the ability to clearly see yourself and your work.
- Marlita Hill, Choreographer and author of Nail that Niche
More than a branding workbook, Brand Something Beautiful is a guide for creatives who know they have something meaningful to share but need to assemble a clear plan for how to connect it to the world. Steve Brock has taken decades of experience and distilled it into a practical, inspiring, and deeply accessible process that guides artists, writers, and makers to move from vision to voice to value. I've worked at the epicenter of culture, arts, and social movements for over twenty years, and I can say with confidence that this is one of the most useful, actionable, and encouraging resources I've seen for creatives. If you want to stop guessing about your brand and start building something that truly resonates, this book belongs on your desk.
- Erik L¸kkesmoe, Creative Strategist for entertainment, government, and social impact
Back when I was just a baby thinking about turning 30, Steve Brock took me under his wing and gave me a world-class education in branding. It changed my life and has shaped every business I've built and every ounce of communication with my audience. This book is your chance to be mentored by one of the most brilliant minds in branding and marketing. Steve Brock provides not only clear, decisive information about why branding matters, but also the key exercises and thought experiments you need to create your unique brand and bring your creative work to your audience. Start at the beginning, do it all-and it will change your creative life and business.
- Michelle Mays, Author of The Betrayal Bind
