Meet Steven Picanza

Today we’re excited to be connecting with Steven Picanza again. If you haven’t already, we suggest you check out our prior conversation with them here.

Steven, thanks for joining us again. Just to level set a bit for folks who may have missed our last interview together, can you briefly introduce yourself?
Thank you for having me back—San Diego will always have a special place in my heart!

For those who don’t know me, I’m Steven Picanza, a branding and marketing strategist with a passion for helping businesses and individuals transform ambitious ideas into brands that people believe in. Over the years, I’ve worked with everyone from startups and small businesses to purpose-driven organizations and global enterprises, focusing on creating strategies that resonate with audiences and drive meaningful impact.

I wear a few hats—literally and figuratively.

I’m a consultant, speaker, educator, and entrepreneur.

Co-founder of ANEWBrand, where we specialize in branding for the greater good of humankind, working with non-profits and socially conscious businesses to elevate their presence.

Host of Talking with Branders, a podcast for Branders Magazine, where we dive into the world of branding and marketing with leading minds in the industry.

Co-founder of NJ Content Studio, a creative hub helping businesses create consistent and high-quality branded content in Haddonfield, NJ.

What sets me apart is my ability to seamlessly merge strategic thinking with creative execution. With over 15 years of experience in branding, content strategy, and storytelling—paired with a track record of working alongside top-tier agencies and brands—I deliver actionable insights that consistently drive impactful results.

But more importantly, I make branding human—I help businesses and individuals find their authentic voice, connect with their audience, and tell stories that truly matter.

My journey has been one of constant growth and evolution.

From my early days in San Diego, where I fell in love with the art of storytelling and strategy, to launching multiple ventures and helping countless businesses achieve their branding goals, I’ve learned that great branding isn’t just about a logo or a tagline—it’s about creating a meaningful connection. And that’s the philosophy I bring to everything I do.

Great, so let’s jump into an update on what you have been up to since we last spoke. What can you share with us?
Since our last conversation, it’s been an exciting journey full of growth and new ventures.

One major highlight has been redefining the focus of ANEWBrand to “branding for the greater good of humankind.” We’re working with non-profits and socially conscious businesses to create brands that resonate deeply and make a meaningful impact.

I also co-founded NJ Content Studio in Haddonfield, NJ—a creative hub for small businesses, content creators, and podcasters. We’re gearing up for a big (re)launch, and I’m stoked about the opportunities this space will bring to the community.

The Talking with Branders podcast continues to be a platform for incredible conversations with some of the best minds in branding. It’s been a rewarding way to explore the art and science of building iconic brands.

On the personal side, balancing these ventures with parenting has been a challenge, but it’s taught me to focus on what truly matters and stay grounded in my purpose.

Right now, I’m most excited about scaling these projects and continuing to make branding human, impactful, and accessible. The next chapter is all about building momentum and staying true to what I love most—helping brands and people thrive.

Alright, so let’s do something a bit more fast-paced and lighthearted. We call this our lightning round and we’ll ask you a few quick questions.

Favorite Movie: Gladiator

Favorite Book: The Alchemist

Favorite TV Show: The Soprano

Favorite Band or Artist: Dream Theater

Sweet or Savory: Savory

Mountains or Beach: Mountains

Favorite Sport (to watch): Soccer

Favorite Sport (to play): Soccer

Did you play sports growing up (if so which ones): Yes, soccer and baseball

As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up: Rockstar

French Fries or Onion Rings: Fries

Chuck Rhodes or Bobby Axelrod: Who?

Favorite Cartoon growing up: Scooby Doo

Favorite Childhood movie: Iron Eagle

Favorite Breakfast Food: Espresso

What would the perfect day look like for you? Please give us as many details as possible.
The perfect day starts with family. I’d wake up early, make espresso, and spend the morning with Melissa and my son, Leonardo—maybe making pancakes or just enjoying time together before the day gets busy.

After that, I’d dive into creative, focused work—whether it’s crafting a brand strategy, recording a podcast, or collaborating on a new project. I love starting my day by building something meaningful.

Lunch would be a mix of good food and great conversation, catching up with a client, friend, or collaborator who inspires me.

In the afternoon, I’d head to NJ Content Studio to work on exciting projects with clients or brainstorm ideas with the team. Being in a creative space energizes me.

The evening would be all about family again—cooking dinner together, laughing, and winding down. After Leonardo is asleep, I’d take some time to reflect, plan, or write, ending the day with purpose and gratitude.

Website: https://www.stevenpicanza.com

LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/stevenpicanza

Twitter: https://x.com/picanza