If you’re here, chances are you’re trying to answer a few big questions:

• How do I stand out in a noisy, AI-fueled world?
• How do I build trust when skepticism is at an all-time high?
• How do I grow my influence without feeling salesy, performative, or ego-driven – and make a bigger impact along the way?
  

You’re not alone and you’re in the right place.

My mission is to help leaders and entrepreneurs build thought leadership focused on impact, not ego – to accelerate trust for their organization and have a lot of fun along the way.

The Challenge You’re Facing

We’re living in a moment where:

• Audiences are overwhelmed by automation and sameness
• Trust in institutions and businesses is declining
• Attention is scarce, but credibility is even scarcer
  

AI has made it easier than ever to publish—but harder than ever to be believed.

The good news?

People may distrust companies, but they’re still willing to trust leaders who are visible to them in an authentic, mission-driven way.

When leadership is visible, interesting and grounded in purpose, it creates an unfair advantage for the organization.

The Core Idea

I believe entrepreneurship is one of the greatest forces for good in the world—and that leaders who communicate with clarity, conviction, and authenticity can scale their impact far beyond their title or organization.

That belief drives everything you’ll find here.

This is where thought leadership meets strategy, and where AI becomes a tool for amplification, not imitation.

How I Work With Leaders

I help leaders build people-driven brands that accelerate trust for their organizations through:

• Keynotes & workshops
• Books & content
• Board & advisory work

I am honored to be cofounder and Chairman of the award-winning full-service agency, Zilker Media, where we build trusted leaders and organizations through people-driven marketing.

If writing and publishing a book is part of your journey, I also help lead The Authority Company, home of Forbes Books, Entrepreneur Books and others.

A Bit of Context (Because It Matters)

I’m Rusty—an Austin native who believes deeply in leadership, entrepreneurship, faith, and doing meaningful work with good people.

I live in the Texas Hill Country with my wife, Paige, and our three kids. Teaching, writing, speaking, coaching—and occasionally embarrassing my children—are all part of the deal.

But this site isn’t about my résumé.

It’s about helping you navigate leadership in a rapidly changing world—with clarity, confidence, and tools that actually work.

Where to Go Next

• If you’re looking for practical ways to grow your platform, explore the resources here.
• If you’re considering a speaker or workshop leader, let’s talk.
• If you’re looking for an amazing agency of record to help you build a more trusted brand for your company, check us out at Zilker Media.
• If AI is on your radar but you don’t want to lose your voice, you’ll feel at home here.
  

I’m glad you’re here—and I hope this site serves you well.

To your success,
Rusty

Resources