In this episode of The Story Project, Joanna sits down with Ariel Kuhn, Creative Strategist at Studio EightyEight, to talk about the magic behind Brand Sessions—a custom experience designed to help leaders in the profession discover their brand story with clarity and authenticity. Ariel shares how the Discovery phase is all about asking the right questions to uncover a client's "why," creating a strong foundation for building a meaningful and memorable brand.

Together, they pull back the curtain on what it's like to experience a Brand Shoot at Studio EightyEight—from the intentional prep work to the fun, relaxed atmosphere on shoot day. With practical tips and personal reflections, the conversation reminds listeners that discovering your voice and owning your story is one of the most powerful things you can do for your business. Whether you're building a new brand or refreshing an existing one, this episode will leave you inspired to tell your story.

Key Takeaways

Point 1: The first step is to get started!
Point 2: Find out what people come to you for and how to meet that need.
Point 3: Make it your own. Find your voice and share it in the way that feels authentic to you because someone needs it.

Guest Information

Ariel Kuhn is a Creative Strategist at Studio EightyEight, photographer, writer, Enneagram 6, and a lil bit of a homebody. She's a girl mom living in Columbus, Ohio and an introvert. Ariel grew up wanting to be a teacher but switched her major to English. Around that time, she picked up a camera to play around with and went on her merry way. After a windy road and a few jobs in both the creative and education spaces, she now gets to teach, write, photograph, and use the visual and strategic creativity she loves. Today, Ariel walks with clients through a process to bring their own brand to life.

How to Connect with Ariel Kuhn

Website: https://www.s8e8.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/arielviewcreative/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arielmkuhn/
Email: ariel@s8e8.com

Episode Highlights

[18:30]: Discovery tools Studio 8E8 uses for brand building
[21:51]: The creative process of working with women and women-owned businesses
[22:50] Brand Session best moments

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Welcome to The Story Project—a video-driven podcast spotlighting the voices of high-achieving women in dentistry. These are the educators, innovators, and leading voices shaping the future of the profession.

Each episode offers an intimate look at the stories behind their leadership—why they chose dentistry, what drives them forward, and how they're navigating the complex intersection of purpose, business, and personal growth. We celebrate the courage it takes to lead, the challenges they've overcome, and the legacies they're building—not just in their practices, but across the industry.

This is a space for fearless, thoughtful conversation with the women redefining what's possible in dentistry.

To connect or inquire about being a guest, reach out to @joannafscott or visit www.joannascott.com.

032: Building Your Brand from Scratch: Story, Strategy, and Visual Identity with Ariel Kuhn