Podchaser Logo Rate on Podchaser

full

full
Published on:

3rd Jun 2025

36 | Rachel Durkan | How to Use Audience Research for Marketing Succes

What if the secret to scaling your business wasn’t working harder—but thinking smarter? In this episode of Fingerprints on Success, Bill Barrett sits down with Rachel Durkan, founder and CEO of Paradigm Marketing and Design, to explore the intentional strategies that led to her agency’s long-term success. Rachel shares how she turned a one-woman marketing operation into a thriving team of specialists, and why quitting—when done with clarity and purpose—can be one of the smartest business moves.

She also opens up about the emotional side of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the power of systems, mentorship, and surrounding yourself with people smarter than you. Whether you’re a founder, team leader, or aspiring entrepreneur, this conversation will challenge how you think about growth, success, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.


If you've enjoyed this episode of the Fingerprints on Success podcast, be sure to leave a review and subscribe today!


Enjoy!


In This Episode You'll Learn:

  • Why every marketing strategy should start with deep audience research
  • How storytelling and emotional triggers help convert prospects
  • The most common branding mistakes professional firms make
  • Why strong messaging can help you attract talent, not just clients
  • How to balance authenticity with data-driven content
  • Tips on refining your messaging without overhauling your identity
  • How Rachel’s agency uses behavioral profiles to design effective campaigns
  • Why marketing is no longer optional for law firms and other B2B providers
  • And much more…



Guest Bio:

Rachel Durkan is the President of Paradigm Marketing and Design, an award-winning full-service agency that specializes in helping professional firms clarify their messaging and build data-informed strategies that scale. With a background in psychology and over a decade of experience in B2B marketing, Rachel is known for fusing emotional intelligence with analytics. Her team works closely with clients to create tailored branding and marketing systems that not only resonate with their target audience but also deliver measurable results.


Resources:

ParadigmMarketingandDesign.com 

Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn


Disclaimer:

The views, information, or opinions expressed during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of the Fingerprints on Success podcast or its affiliates. The content provided is for informational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional advice. We make no representations as to the accuracy, completeness, suitability, or validity of any information on this podcast and will not be liable for any errors, omissions, or delays in this information or any losses, injuries, or damages arising from its display or use. Listeners should consult with a professional for specific advice tailored to their situation. By accessing this podcast, you acknowledge that any reliance on the content is at your own risk.



All Episodes Previous Episode

Listen for free

Show artwork for Fingerprints On Success

About the Podcast

Fingerprints On Success
Welcome to “Fingerprints on Success,” the podcast that highlights the distinctive imprints left by influential business leaders, mentors, and thriving entrepreneurs.

Your host is none other than Bill Barrett, an award-winning corporate and business law attorney, and the CEO of Mandelbaum Barrett PC. Join us every week as we explore the captivating stories and insights of a diverse array of serial entrepreneurs, seasoned professionals, inspiring leaders, and accomplished coaches.

Together, we'll uncover the hidden secrets and strategies that have propelled our guests to success in both their professional and personal lives.

At Mandelbaum Barrett PC, Bill and his team have been providing comprehensive legal services to businesses and individuals across the country. Now, they are excited to bring that same level of knowledge and experience to these podcast discussions.

Get ready to be inspired, informed, and motivated. It's time to dive into the stories that have shaped success. Without further ado, let's get to the show!"
Learn more: https://www.mblawfirm.com/

About your host

Profile picture for William Barrett

William Barrett

Chief Executive Officer and Corporate Law attorney William S. Barrett provides strategic advice to companies and organizations of all sizes from formation to dissolution and every stage in between. He has over 20 years of experience representing a wide range of businesses with a unique focus in mergers and acquisitions. He is known for the personal attention that he gives his clients and the energy he brings to every deal. Bill has a reputation as a deal maker who knows how to be creative and get things done.

Bill often serves the role as outside general corporate counsel to his clients and advises them on issues concerning contracts, employment law compliance, developing policies, executive compensation programs and agreements, as well as business succession and related tax planning. His representative clients include commercial organizations and entrepreneurs in the areas of manufacturing, industry, service, banking, finance, insurance, construction, real estate development, as well as healthcare professionals of varying disciplines and organizations. Throughout his career, Bill has successfully managed the purchase or sale of hundreds of businesses, professional practices and facilities.

In the healthcare space, Bill is well recognized as a transactional lawyer in dental and medical practice transitions, practice sales and purchases, associate buy-ins, start-ups, and the structuring of dental services organizations (DSOs) and management services organizations (MSOs).

He is the author of “Pain-Free Dental Deals: An Entrepreneurial Dentist’s Guide to Buying, Selling and Merging Practices” and “The DSO Decision: Winning Answers from Every Angle.” He has written many articles addressing the legal and business needs of licensed professionals and facilities. He regularly speaks on a wide variety of topics to professional tradeshows, associations, study groups, societies, as well as students and residents at dental schools across the country.