Meet RJ Sampson of Crater Brand Exploration

Today we’d like to introduce you to RJ Sampson.

Hi RJ, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I was born in Tucson, AZ where I went to Tucson Hebrew Academy and then Catalina Foothills High School. I was exposed to a wide range of interests such as sports, music, and technology. In college, I jumped between a few different majors, ultimately landing on Psychology and with a Marketing Minor. The psychology I was most interested in and took classes towards was more focused on why people make the decisions they make.

After college, I got a job running marketing for a restaurant in Tucson as well as becoming their bar manager. From there, I took a detour into the world of wine and took a job and Total Wine, where my efforts ultimately led me to become a certified Sommelier. It was during this time I made a move to Scottsdale, AZ. With this new certification, I went back to the restaurant industry, where I quickly realized I no longer wanted to be in that industry.

My next job would challenge me in a completely new way with the role of software sales for a company called Mindbody. It was here I got a took under the hood of many small businesses and really learned the major issues they struggle with. It was also during my time at Mindbody that I started to design logos on the side. During my time at Mindbody, I learned a lot about myself and quickly became one of their top sales representatives. I recommend anyone try a sales job at least once. It teaches you a lot.

When the pandemic hit, is when I was let go from Mindbody and made the decision to work on my Branding business full time. It’s one of those blessing in disguise scenarios; like the universe was pushing me towards the job I was supposed to be doing.

Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
As every business owner knows, starting your own business is crazy and takes a lot of work and effort. My biggest struggle has been found my place and voice in the branding world. Like any industry, there is a lot of noise and competition happening, so trying to find a food hold and get known is always the first big hurdle.

We’ve been impressed with Crater Brand Exploration, but for folks who might not be as familiar, what can you share with them about what you do and what sets you apart from others?
Crater Brand Exploration is a Brand Strategy and Identity Design Firm. We work with businesses to help them truly understand what their business is about on a deeper level and how to set it apart not only visually but strategically as well. When I first started designing logos, I’ve run into so many owners who couldn’t explain to me clearly what their business was truly about more than just “we sell a product or service”. This leads to very uninspired design work. Through those experiences, I’ve developed a Branding Workshop that I put my clients through to help them truly understand why they’re in business for more than just money. I recently rebranded my own business through this workshop and came out with a much richer and more distinct brand for myself,

This process consists of three phases: Phase 1 – Purpose – understanding why you’re in business. Phase 2 – Strategy – how to ensure your business stands out. Phase 3 – Design – creating your own unique visual identity.

What I’m most proud of with my business is not only the fun and creative concepts I get to create for my clients but the feedback I get from our sessions from the owners; that they get a clearer understanding and deeper connection to their work through our time together. Starting a business is in itself crazy and for the owners, I work, this is their livelihood. I’m proud that I’m able to help them make their business more successful so their surroundings can thrive as well.

What matters most to you? Why?
What matters to me is doing the best work I can for my clients because they have real-world implications on their lives. I literally help owners get to define or redefine their business and their brand. It’s harder than ever for businesses to stand out because there are so many more businesses in the world. I want to make sure that owner has the best chance possible to succeed so they can feed their family and add value to their community.

I have great respect for those that bet on themselves and start their own business because it is not easy. It’s a roller coaster of thoughts and emotions;; a non-stop onslaught of problems and challenges they have to overcome. If I’m able to make that easier or help them get more clear and connected to their purpose, then I’ve done my job. Business owners start their businesses because they have a dream and a vision. I want to help enable those people to go after them with not only confidence but a clear strategy.

Contact Info:

• Email: impact@craterbranding.com
• Website: www.craterbranding.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/craterbranding/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CraterBranding
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcUl1-Gto70ZVeDa-vswu4A
• Other: www.behance.net/rjsampson