Marketing the 912
Welcome to Marketing the 912 – the podcast built specifically for South Georgia's thriving business community in Savannah, Bryan County, and Effingham County.
Each episode brings you candid conversations with local business owners, managers, and entrepreneurs who share their real-world experiences navigating the exciting opportunities and inevitable challenges of running a business in our region.
But we don't stop at stories. Every episode delivers actionable business and marketing strategies you can implement immediately to accelerate your own growth. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting your entrepreneurial journey, Marketing the 912 gives you the local insights and proven tactics you need to succeed in South Georgia's unique market.
Marketing the 912
Savannah Actor Mark McCullough on Hollywood, Risk, and the Business of Branding | Marketing the 912
How does a Savannah-born actor end up in Hollywood blockbusters alongside Tom Cruise and Captain America? In this episode of Marketing the 912, we uncover what South Georgia businesses can learn from his story.
Episode Summary
Mark McCullough grew up near Savannah and worked his way from Effingham County to the big screen. Today, he shares lessons from Hollywood that every business owner in South Georgia can apply — from consistent marketing to finding your authentic brand.
Host Jan Southern and Mark explore how the acting business mirrors entrepreneurship: building a personal brand, networking the right way, and turning rejection into momentum. With over 35 years of marketing experience, Jan connects Mark’s story to what works right here in Bryan, Effingham, and Chatham County.
If you’re growing a business in the 912, this episode is full of powerful takeaways about risk-taking, persistence, and knowing your value.
Key Takeaways
• Why personal branding matters for both actors and business owners
• The power of consistent marketing — even when results take time
• How to handle imposter syndrome and keep moving forward
• The importance of mentorship and learning from successful people
• Why authenticity is your biggest marketing advantage
Guest Bio
Mark McCullough is a Savannah native and Hollywood actor known for roles in Captain America, American Made, and Free State of Jones. He also founded The Working Actor’s Lab, coaching actors across the U.S. and abroad.
Resources Mentioned
#MarketingThe912 #SouthGeorgiaBusiness #SavannahMarketing #912Marketing #EffinghamCounty #PoolerBusiness