From Zenzi to Aptera – A Journey of Innovation and Purpose

Introduction
The journey from founding Zenzi Communications to helping Aptera Motors raise over $140 million has been nothing short of transformative. While Zenzi was a pioneering force in the marketing world, my desire for deeper fulfillment led me to discover the power of values-based marketing, a strategy that would not only shape my career but also drive incredible success for the companies I’ve worked with.

The Birth of Zenzi
In 2002, I founded Zenzi Communications with a mission to disrupt traditional marketing and create authentic connections between brands and their audiences. Over two decades, we worked with well-known brands like Nestle, Chiquita, and Crystal Geyser, helping them build strong, lasting relationships with their customers. Despite our success, something was missing.

A New Perspective
The arrival of my son, Elliott, gave me a fresh perspective on what truly matters in life and in business. I realized that the most impactful campaigns we had run were those that resonated on a deeper level, connecting with people’s values and fostering a sense of community. This revelation led me to explore values-based marketing, a concept that was still largely untapped in the industry.

The Power of Values
My journey into values marketing began with a chance encounter—a Tweet that connected me with a psychology professor at San Francisco State. Together, we conducted research that uncovered six primary value types that drive consumer behavior. This wasn’t just academic; it was a revolutionary approach to marketing that would become Zenzi’s differentiator.

Transformation and Success
Armed with this new understanding, I transformed Zenzi into the world’s first values marketing agency. We developed a proprietary method to link these values to specific marketing strategies, creating campaigns that truly resonated with audiences on a subconscious level. This approach not only set us apart but also led to extraordinary results, culminating in Zenzi’s acquisition by Aletheia in 2021.

Joining Aptera Motors
After selling Zenzi, I joined Aptera Motors as Chief Marketing Officer, applying the principles of values marketing to help the company raise over $100 million through equity crowdfunding. Our success was driven by a shared vision for sustainable transportation and a commitment to building a passionate community of supporters. By aligning our campaigns with the values of our audience, we were able to turn customers into loyal advocates and investors.

What Now?
The journey from Zenzi to Aptera has been a testament to the power of values-driven marketing. It’s not just about what you sell; it’s about what you stand for. As I continue my journey, now with The Crowd, I am more committed than ever to helping purpose-driven companies succeed by tapping into the deeper motivations that drive us all.

If you’re ready to take your marketing to the next level and build a community of passionate supporters, let’s connect. Together, we can create campaigns that resonate on a deeper level and drive real, lasting success.