Who we are
MARZ MARCELLO (They/Them)
CEO | Co-Founder
About
Marz is an experienced Operations Manager, PR Agent, Project Manager, Audio Engineer and Podcast Producer, Executive Producer and NCAA Broadcast Engineer with over a decade of expertise in terrestrial radio, podcasting, public relations and communications.
They have a proven track record in earned media, podcast guest booking and team management. In one year they successfully booked over 100+ earned media placements and led their team in the booking of 1,000+ earned media placements featuring thought leaders on podcasts.
Recognized for their leadership skills, Marz has also successfully built multiple departments for various different entities. This was done through the creation of organizational structures, developing processes and procedures and building pipelines to maintain timely execution on client deliverables.
They formerly co-hosted an AM/FM radio show, were formally trained and certified in audio production. They have skills in all aspects of audio production, including editing, recording, mixing, and mastering. They can even build you a microphone!
Michael Bickett (He/Him)
COO | Co-Founder
About
Michael is an award-winning podcaster and founder of the digital media company Geeks Under the Influence based in Richmond, VA. Along with developing and producing a multitude of shows for other creators, Michael has used his extensive comedy and writing backgrounds to host six different podcasts in his time running the network.
Over his ten years in the industry, Bickett has amassed over a thousand appearance and production credits along. Michael has regularly mentored podcasters and industry professionals through his group The RVA Community of Podcasters. His focus on elevating the digital creator community led to a position as Customer Service Manager at Podchaser where he met Marz Marcello. He later went on to work as Head of Customer Experience at RSS.com.
Marz and Michael stayed in touch after their time at Podchaser, and while catching up on a call, they identified underutilized revenue streams within the digital content industry. This was the beginning of an idea, that in April 2024, officially became Certified Crucial. Bickett’s previous career in electrical equipment distribution aided them in developing a unique merchandising and fulfillment strategy for digital creators and brands. Certified Crucial is the culmination of a unique skill set that spans decades of Michael’s working life, and fullfilling his passion for empowering and supporting creators.
Who is Certified Crucial?
Certified Crucial, LLC was formed out of a personal mission to help creatives recognize, access, and unlock the full potential of audiences. Our services provide the tools and resources necessary to effectively monetize products and content. The company’s founders are creators themselves. Marz, Michael, and the rest of the Certified Crucial team are committed to fostering a thriving and collaborative creative community; A place where every voice is celebrated and amplified.
Certified Crucial is an LGBTQIA+ owned company offering digital creators unique and high-quality merchandising options for fans. We have the traditional merch you’d expect on any creator webstore, and unique items custom-tailored to your audience niche.