Beyond The Shelf

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This show is an open exploration of the people and process behind E-Commerce. Through conversations with innovators in the space, we learn the stories of these leaders and their strategies for E-Commerce success. You can join our mailing list and access more content at itsrapid.ai.David's past guests have included: Bryan Gildenberg from the CPG Guys, Todd Hassenfelt from Colgate-Palmolive, Anne Zybowski from Circana, Randy Mercer from 1WorldSync, Jared Taitel from PepsiCo, David Novak from Salsify, Harvey Ma from Albertsons Media Collective, Carter Jensen from General Mills, Pam Perino from Ghirardelli Chocolate, and many more.

David Feinleib


    • Apr 17, 2026 LATEST EPISODE
    • weekdays NEW EPISODES
    • 30m AVG DURATION
    • 128 EPISODES


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    Latest episodes from Beyond The Shelf

    BTS Live from Syndigo Connect: Russ Dieringer (Stratably)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 17, 2026 9:56


    We're live from Syndigo Connect 2026!  In this BTS Live miniseries, we'll be featuring interviews some of the best and brighest minds in in the digital commerce space, right from the show floor. Connect with Russ on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    BTS Live from Syndigo Connect: Tim Sullivan (Syndigo)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 16, 2026 4:51


    We're live from Syndigo Connect 2026!  In this BTS Live miniseries, we'll be featuring interviews some of the best and brighest minds in in the digital commerce space, right from the show floor. We continue the miniseries with Russ Dieringer, Founder and CEO of Stratably. He joins Dave to break down what's real vs hype when it comes to AI and agentic commerce, where brands are seeing traction today, and why strong data foundations remain critical to unlocking meaningful impact.Connect with Tim on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    REWIND: Breaking the Digital Shelf Bottleneck — with Acosta Group's Joe Lamberson

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 14, 2026 30:30


    This week we're replaying our 3/10/26 episode with Joe Lamberson, Director of Digital Initiatives & Partnerships at Acosta Group, to discuss how brands can modernize digital shelf execution and keep up with rapidly rising retailer expectations.With Acosta supporting thousands of brands across retail and ecommerce, Joe has a unique perspective on the operational challenges brands face—from content creation and item setup to retailer scorecards and image requirements.A major theme of the episode is the Acosta × It'sRapid partnership, and how automation is helping brands scale digital shelf content creation while maintaining quality and compliance.They discuss:Why digital shelf content refresh has become an always-on processHow AI is helping brands break the speed / quality / cost tradeoff in content creationThe growing importance of mobile hero images and retailer scorecardsHow Acosta works with technology partners like It'sRapid to help brands scale content executionWhy image creation, visual analytics, and automation are becoming essential capabilitiesWhat generative search and AI could mean for product discoverabilityConnect with Joe on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    BTS Live from Shoptalk: Kiri Masters (Retail Media Breakfast Club)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2026 5:48


    We wrap up our BTS Live at Shoptalk Miniseries with Retail Media Breakfast Club's Kiri Masters, who talks with Dave about the next phase of retail media.As AI reshapes the shopper journey, Kiri explains why traditional ad formats — especially sponsored product ads — may become less central, and how retailers will need to rethink monetization and customer experience.She also shares perspective on emerging AI shopping experiences and why the industry is still in a rapid test-and-learn phase. Connect with Kiri on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidIs your PDP ready for AI? Get Your Free PDP Readiness AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    BTS Live from Shoptalk: Daniel Torres Dwyer (The FMCG Guys)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 8, 2026 5:34


    In this BTS Live Minisode from Shoptalk, Dave speaks with Daniel Torres Dwyer of The FMCG Guys about key themes emerging from the event.While AI continues to dominate the conversation, Daniel points to a more nuanced reality — where excitement is balanced with caution as brands navigate uncertainty and evolving market conditions.He also shares thoughts on emerging AI-driven commerce experiences and where they may — or may not — deliver real impact.Connect with Daniel on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidIs your PDP ready for AI? Get Your Free PDP Readiness AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    BTS Live from Shoptalk: Lauren Livak Gilbert (Digital Shelf Institute)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 6, 2026 5:50


    Our BTS Live from Shoptalk Miniseries continues! Dave speaks with DSI's Lauren Livak Gilbert about how AI is impacting both organizations and the digital shelf.Lauren highlights the growing importance of talent, upskilling, and internal transformation as AI reshapes the industry, and explains why brands should focus on evolving their content strategies - not replacing them.Connect with Lauren on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidIs your PDP ready for AI? Get Your Free PDP Readiness AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    BTS Live from the Commerce Media Brand Summit: Shawn McGahee (Roundel)

    Play Episode Listen Later Apr 1, 2026 11:58


    Our BTS Live from the Commerce Media Brand Summit miniseries concludes with Shawn McGahee, Sr. Director, Performance and Insights at Roundel.Shawn speaks with Dave about the growing maturity of retail media — from a focus on ROAS to a deeper emphasis on incrementality, measurement, and real business outcomes.He shares how Roundel is approaching measurement through a portfolio of testing methods, why brands need to start with clear business objectives, and how retail media insights — especially from creative — can extend beyond campaigns to influence broader strategy.Connect with Shawn on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidIs your PDP ready for AI? Get Your Free PDP Readiness AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    BTS Live from Shoptalk: Manish Sharma (Think Blue)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2026 7:06


    Our BTS Live series continues - this time from Shoptalk 2026!  In this minisode, Dave speaks with Manish Sharma from Think Blue about the next phase of AI in digital commerce.As AI moves beyond experimentation, the focus is shifting toward workflow automation, productivity gains, and measurable business impact.Manish shares how he's seeing this evolve across brands, retailers, and technology partners — and why the next step is proving real, scalable value across the ecosystem. Connect with Manish on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidIs your PDP ready for AI? Get Your Free PDP Readiness AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    BTS Live from the Commerce Media Brand Summit: Collin Colburn (IAB)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 27, 2026 9:50


    This episode is part of our BTS Live miniseries, featuring quick conversations recorded on the show floor at the WBR Commerce Media Brand Summit in Atlanta.Dave speaks with Collin Colburn of the IAB about the next phase of retail media maturity.As the space evolves beyond rapid growth, the focus is shifting toward omnichannel integration, improved measurement, and greater transparency.Collin shares how brands are connecting retail media with channels like CTV and social, why incrementality remains a key priority, and how gaps in measurement transparency continue to hold the industry back.He also highlights a growing opportunity around creative — as retail media expands beyond lower-funnel performance into full-funnel engagement.Connect with Collin on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidIs your PDP ready for AI? Get Your Free PDP Readiness AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    BTS Live from the Commerce Media Brand Summit: Jack Kneuper (Perdue Farms)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 25, 2026 6:55


    This episode is part of our BTS Live miniseries, featuring quick conversations recorded on the show floor at the WBR Commerce Media Brand Summit in Atlanta.Dave speaks with Jack Kneuper of Perdue Farms about the evolving role of performance marketing in a fragmented, omnichannel landscape.As the traditional funnel breaks down, brands must ensure every touchpoint — from CTV to retail media to in-store — is working together to drive results.Jack shares how Perdue is prioritizing creative quality across channels, leaning into more authentic content to engage younger audiences, and using AI to automate reporting and improve operational efficiency. Connect with Jack on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidIs your PDP ready for AI? Get Your Free PDP Readiness AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    BTS Live from the Commerce Media Brand Summit: Skye Frontier (Incremental)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 23, 2026 6:46


    This episode is part of our BTS Live miniseries, featuring quick conversations recorded on the show floor at the Commerce Media Brand Summit in Atlanta.Dave speaks with Skye Frontier of Incremental about the evolving role of measurement in retail media.As budgets expand beyond shopper and trade into brand investment, brands are being held to a higher standard — shifting from ROAS to incrementality and focusing on true business impact.Skye shares how brands are moving beyond last-touch attribution, embedding new measurement frameworks across workflows, and rethinking how retail media drives growth across the full portfolio.Connect with Skye on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidIs your PDP ready for AI? Get Your Free PDP Readiness AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    BTS Live from the WBR Commerce Media Brand Summit: Celia Van Wickel (Russell Stover)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 20, 2026 10:21


    This episode is part of our BTS Live miniseries, featuring quick conversations recorded on the show floor at the Commerce Media Brand Summit in Atlanta.Dave speaks with Celia Van Wickel of Russell Stover about how brands are evolving their commerce media strategies — from expanding search across retailers to shifting KPIs beyond ROAS toward share of voice, new-to-brand, and incrementality.She also shares how her team is scaling retail media and digital shelf content with limited resources, and how Russell Stover is partnering with It'sRapid to streamline creative production, adapt content across retailers, and drive more consistent performance across seasonal campaigns.Connect with Celia on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidIs your PDP ready for AI? Get Your Free PDP Readiness AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    BTS Live from the WBR Commerce Media Brand Summit: Michele McNamara (Newell Brands)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 18, 2026 8:52


    This episode is part of our BTS Live miniseries, featuring quick conversations recorded on the show floor at the Commerce Media Brand Summit in Atlanta.Dave speaks with Michele McNamara, Director of Digital Commerce & Omni Activation at Newell Brands, about how brands are thinking about measurement, incrementality, and mobile-first shopper behavior.They also discuss Newell's work with It'sRapid on mobile hero imagery, and how optimizing for mobile discoverability is helping drive stronger performance with retail partners, by making products easier to find and more relevant in the moment.Connect with Michele on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidIs your PDP ready for AI? Get Your Free PDP Readiness AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    BTS Live from the WBR Commerce Media Brand Summit: Andrew Groom (The Wine Group)

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 16, 2026 7:00


    This episode is part of our BTS Live miniseries, featuring quick conversations recorded on the show floor at the Commerce Media Brand Summit in Atlanta.In this minisode, Dave speaks with Andrew Groom, Senior Director of Digital Marketing and Ecommerce at The Wine Group, about how AI is helping brands optimize audiences and creative, and how the company is partnering with It'sRapid to accelerate campaign development and ecommerce content iteration.They also discuss innovation in ready-to-drink beverages, managing large product portfolios across retailers, and how digital campaigns are increasingly connecting with in-store moments.Connect with Andrew on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidIs your PDP ready for AI? Get Your Free PDP Readiness AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Breaking the Digital Shelf Bottleneck — with Acosta Group's Joe Lamberson

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 10, 2026 30:30


    Dave sits down with Joe Lamberson, Director of Digital Initiatives & Partnerships at Acosta Group, to discuss how brands can modernize digital shelf execution and keep up with rapidly rising retailer expectations.With Acosta supporting thousands of brands across retail and ecommerce, Joe has a unique perspective on the operational challenges brands face—from content creation and item setup to retailer scorecards and image requirements.A major theme of the episode is the Acosta × It'sRapid partnership, and how automation is helping brands scale digital shelf content creation while maintaining quality and compliance.They discuss:Why digital shelf content refresh has become an always-on processHow AI is helping brands break the speed / quality / cost tradeoff in content creationThe growing importance of mobile hero images and retailer scorecardsHow Acosta works with technology partners like It'sRapid to help brands scale content executionWhy image creation, visual analytics, and automation are becoming essential capabilitiesWhat generative search and AI could mean for product discoverabilityConnect with Joe on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Driving Growth Through Customer-First Retail Media – with Tesco Media's Stephen Shepherd

    Play Episode Listen Later Mar 3, 2026 23:16


    This week on Beyond the Shelf, Dave sits down with Stephen Shepherd, Head of Strategy & Consulting at Tesco Media, to explore how retail media has evolved from a tactical revenue stream into a strategic growth engine.With nearly two decades in the space — beginning with Dunnhumby's early retail media initiatives — Stephen brings a data-first perspective to how retailers and brands should think about customer experience, creative, and measurement.In this episode, Dave and Stephen discuss:Why retail media must stay customer-first (not tech-first)The “win-win-win” model: retailer, brand, and customerHow creative storytelling and data science overlapThe importance of micro-decisions across the customer journeyWhere AI is quietly solving operational complexityWhy ROAS may not be the right north star anymoreConnect with Stephen on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Experiment More and See What Happens— with Tenacity Venture Capital's Ben Narasin

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2026 32:05


    Dave's guest this week is Ben Narasin, Founder and General Partner of Tenacity Venture Capital. Ben is a venture capitalist and longtime entrepreneur who invests at the intersection of technology, commerce, and consumer behavior — with a career spent backing (and building) companies that shape how brands sell and operate in a digital-first world.In this episode, Dave and Ben talk about how the VC lens on commerce has evolved, why “AI strategy” is quickly moving from curiosity to ROI scrutiny, and what founders and operators should do as the pace of change accelerates. Ben shares a pragmatic framework: empower teams to test, pilot, and measure quickly — because you can't research your way into winning with emerging technology.Connect with Ben on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Performance Marketing that Drives Incrementality — with Ibotta's Chris Riedy

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 17, 2026 32:58


    Dave's guest this week is Chris Riedy, CRO at Ibotta, where he's helping evolve promotions and offers into a true performance marketing engine for CPG brands.In this episode, Chris breaks down why great sales is really about problem-solving, trust, and empathy - not transactions. He shares how Ibotta has evolved from a consumer app into a platform that connects manufacturers, retailers, and shoppers in moments that change behavior.Dave and Chris also dig into what makes promotions incremental instead of subsidized, how creative and offers can travel across retail media and even into CTV, and why AI and machine learning are most powerful when they help marketers learn faster, not guess better.Connect with Chris on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Creative Strategy Before Creative Execution — with Matt Gehring

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 10, 2026 28:43


    Dave's guest this week is Matt Gehring, a returning guest on Beyond the Shelf and a seasoned growth advisor, independent brand strategist, and Fractional CMO.Since first appearing on the show in 2024, Matt has stepped into a new chapter of his career — advising startups and early-stage companies on how to build momentum from the ground up. He brings deep experience from senior marketing and growth roles at brands including Rothy's, Everlane, Dutch, and Lifeforce, where he's helped teams navigate the critical 0-to-1 phase.Dave and Matt dig into what actually drives early growth: building strong customer insight loops, prioritizing focus over channel sprawl, and launching campaigns that balance speed with strategic clarity. Matt also shares why creative strategy often breaks down before creative execution ever begins, and how AI can support ideation and acceleration when paired with clear direction.Connect with Matt on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    The Digital-First Approach — with Benedict Enterprises' Scott Benedict

    Play Episode Listen Later Feb 3, 2026 28:26


    Dave's guest this week is Scott Benedict, retail strategist, longtime merchant leader, and former Walmart and Sam's Club executive with 35+ years across brick-and-mortar, eCommerce, and global retail. Today he runs Benedict Enterprises and serves as part of RETHINK Retail's advisory group, helping brands and retailers navigate the rapidly evolving commerce landscape.In this episode, Scott and Dave dive into:How a “digital-first” assortment strategy is transforming retailWhy leading retailers now build online → store, not store → onlineThe emerging connection between digital retail media and in-store mediaWalmart vs. Amazon's differing approaches to AI — and why that mattersWhat solution selling looks like in an AI futureWhy foundational data and system integration must come before innovationThe biggest opportunities for brands in 2026 and beyondConnect with Scott on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Transforming the Digital Shelf with AI - with Nestlé's Gloria DeCoste

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 27, 2026 27:52


    Dave's guest this week is Gloria DeCoste, Director of eCommerce & Digital Shelf Capabilities at Nestlé.In this episode, Gloria and Dave explore what it  means for brands to be present in an AI-driven commerce environment - not just visible, but structured, accurate, and ready for how discovery is changing.Gloria shares how large organizations like Nestlé are thinking about the content supply chain, why foundational data and consistency matter more than ever, and how AI is reshaping the way products are found, evaluated, and purchased. They also discuss the shift from traditional search to AI-assisted discovery, and why brands that prepare now will have a meaningful advantage as these tools mature.Connect with Gloria on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    How Regional Retailers Can Win in Retail Media — with DIGITS' Dave Glaza

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 20, 2026 26:37


    Dave's guest this week is Dave Glaza, Founder & CEO of DIGITS Agency and a retail media pioneer who helped launch Target's original Cartwheel loyalty app.In this episode, Dave and Dave discuss why most retail media budgets fall short, how shopper data can be turned into real commercial outcomes, and what it takes to build a competitive retail media network in fragmented, mid-market environments. They also explore testing versus “tried and true” tactics, the role of CTV and influencers, and how AI-driven product discovery may reshape retail media over the next few years.Connect with Dave on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Functional Foods in an Omnichannel World — with Kettle & Fire's Niccolò Gloazzo

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 13, 2026 27:41


    Dave's guest this week is Niccolò Gloazzo, Senior Director of Media & Omnichannel at Kettle & Fire, the brand that helped pioneer shelf-stable bone broth and functional soups.Niccolò shares how Kettle & Fire grew from a digitally native brand into a national retail presence, and what it takes to manage DTC, Amazon, retail media, and in-store growth as a single, connected system.The conversation covers why starting in DTC can create leverage across other channels, how reviews and content portability drive performance, and how retail media has evolved into a full-funnel growth engine. Niccolò also shares how seasonal moments, creative testing, and AI-driven planning are shaping the brand's approach to modern commerce.Connect with Niccolò on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Creative Finds the Audience — with Salt Media's Jordan Witmer

    Play Episode Listen Later Jan 6, 2026 32:06


    Dave's guest this week is Jordan Witmer, Managing Director of Retail Media & Consulting at Salt Media, where he helps brands unify creative, data, and performance across today's fragmented retail media landscape.Jordan's journey spans Black & Decker, Hershey, and Johnson & Johnson (now Kenvue), giving him a rare, full-funnel view of how commerce, media, and measurement intersect.In this episode, he and Dave unpack:Why ROAS isn't dead — it's just misunderstoodHow to balance brand goals and item-level data for smarter optimizationThe shift toward campaign-first creative that adapts across every platformWhy physical retail is making a comeback in an AI-saturated worldConnect with Jordan on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    REWIND: Reimagining Creative for Today's Shopper — with PepsiCo's Jared Taitel

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 30, 2025 41:50


    This episode originally aired on October 31, 2023.  We'll be back with a brand-new episode of Beyond the Shelf on 1/7/26.  Happy Holidays!Dave sits down with Jared Taitel, Director, eCommerce Marketing at PepsiCo, for a wide-ranging conversation on scaling creativity in one of the world's most complex digital commerce environments.Jared shares how PepsiCo approached creative automation early - and how the partnership with It'sRapid helped his team move away from one-off asset creation toward a more scalable, repeatable model across thousands of SKUs. The conversation explores what it takes to operationalize creative at enterprise scale, without sacrificing quality or brand standards.Dave and Jared also discuss Jared's unconventional path from the music industry into marketing leadership, the mindset shifts required to navigate constant change, and how emerging technologies, including generative AI, are reshaping retail media, content production, and team workflows.Connect with Jared on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    REWIND: Elevating Digital Commerce Content at Scale — with Mondelēz's Eric Altschul

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 23, 2025 28:57


    This episode originally aired on April 1, 2025. We'll be back with a brand-new episode of Beyond the Shelf on 1/6/26.  Happy Holidays!Dave sits down with Eric Altschul, Director of Digital Commerce Content at Mondelēz International, to discuss how one of the world's largest CPG companies approaches digital content, automation, and the digital shelf.Eric shares how eCommerce evolved from a secondary priority into a core function at Mondelēz, the role content plays in shaping shopper experiences across retailers, and why mobile-first visuals and PDP optimization are critical to winning online. He also discusses how partnerships - including Mondelēz's work with It'sRapid - help teams automate and standardize content creation across thousands of SKUs while meeting retailer-specific requirements.Connect with Eric on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Modern Puzzles, Smarter Content — with Buffalo Games' Matt Krueger

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 16, 2025 28:23


    Dave's guest this week is Matt Krueger, SVP of Digital Commerce & Marketplaces at Buffalo Games, home to some of the most beloved puzzles and games in North America.Matt shares how he's helping bring a modern, data-driven approach to a classic category — from keeping content fresh across thousands of SKUs to using AI and creative experimentation to stay ahead of platform changes.He and Dave dig into how Buffalo Games balances storytelling with analytics, why creative inspiration sometimes comes from outside your own category, and what it takes to keep a “low-velocity” product exciting on the digital shelf.Listen for an inside look at how digital strategy, content innovation, and AI are reshaping the puzzle aisle.Connect with Matt on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Inside the Checkout Revolution — with Worldpay's Richard Gilbert

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 9, 2025 26:48


    Dave's guest this week is Richard Gilbert, Head of Retail Partnerships at Worldpay. With more than a decade shaping the future of payments - from SaaS platforms to PayPal and now Worldpay - Richard has a front-row seat to how the checkout experience is evolving.He and Dave discuss how payment technology is becoming a brand moment, not just a transaction - from instant checkout and tokenization to BOPIS workflows and the rise of AI in commerce. Richard also shares what makes a truly great retail partnership and why he believes we're just scratching the surface of B2B payment innovation.Connect with Richard on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Smarter Amazon Advertising — with AdLabs' Carly McMillen

    Play Episode Listen Later Dec 2, 2025 27:33


    Dave's guest this week is Carly McMillen, Director of Marketing at AdLabs. Carly shares how she's flipping the traditional PPC playbook—focusing on contribution margin instead of ROAS—and what that means for smarter, more sustainable growth. She and Dave also dive into how brands can stand out on Amazon, the creative strategies that still make a difference, and the new AI tools changing the way advertisers test and optimize campaigns.Plus, Carly breaks down what's next for Amazon Marketing Cloud and why data-driven storytelling is quickly becoming every brand's biggest advantage.Connect with Carly on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    REWIND: Always Ask Why - with Ahold Delhaize USA's Joanna Crishock

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 25, 2025 47:34


    This week we're re-airing our 10/21/25 episode featuring Joanna Crishock, VP of Digital Merchandising & Operations at Ahold Delhaize USA. She shares how she's helping iconic brands like Food Lion, Stop & Shop, Giant Food, and The Giant Company stay agile, customer-focused, and digitally connected.  From her early days in consumer insights to leading omnichannel strategy across merchandising, operations, and retail media, Joanna brings a powerful “why-first” mindset to every challenge.Dave and Joanna discuss:How to bridge retail media and merchandising teamsWhat true customer-centricity looks like in digital retailWhy asking why is the key to better strategy and collaborationHow Joanna's team helps brands deliver personalized, seamless experiencesWhat makes AD USA's retail media offering stand outPlus: from Halloween treat planning to back-to-school dinners, why the best retailers solve for real life, not just transactions.To find out more about AD USA's retail media and full-funnel omnichannel capabilities, reach out to a member of their sales team at ad.retail.media.sales@aholddelhaizeusa.comConnect with Joanna on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    From Local Stores to National Impact – with Ace Hardware & RedVest Media's Molly Hjelm

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 18, 2025 28:50


    This week Dave is joined by Molly Hjelm, Corporate Vice President & Head of Retail Media at Ace Hardware's RedVest Media, . Molly shares what it takes to build a retail media network from scratch, while honoring the voice of thousands of independently owned stores.She breaks down what hyperlocal really means (it's not just geography), how she applied learnings from grocery and dollar, and why in-store activation still matters in a digital-first world.Connect with Molly on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    How to Win College Consumers – with Snag's Carter Zwick

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 11, 2025 23:23


    This week on Beyond the Shelf, we're joined by Carter Zwick, Partnerships and Insights Lead at Snag, a retail activation platform helping brands get in front of the Gen Z shopper with smarter sampling and real-world insights.College students are some of the most valuable—and most overlooked—shoppers in the market today. So how do you reach them early and build brand loyalty that lasts?Carter shares how his own caffeine habits were shaped in a college dorm room, why brands need to meet students where they are (physically and emotionally), and how to turn sampling into something measurable, actionable, and long-term.What You'll Learn:Why the college campus is one of the most powerful—and underutilized—marketing arenasHow early brand experiences shape long-term loyaltyWhat new brands can do to win share from legacy competitorsWhy product sampling isn't just for awareness—it's a long gameConnect with Carter on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Redefining Skincare on the Digital Shelf – with Advantice Health's Ash McMullen

    Play Episode Listen Later Nov 4, 2025 36:44


    This week's guest is Ash McMullen, Head of E-Commerce at Advantice Health.  At Advantice, Ash leads eCommerce and Amazon strategy for the brands Kerasal, AmLactin, Triple Paste, Dermoplast, New-Skin and Domeboro.  Dave and Ash explore:How Ash helped scale her dad's Amazon business before agencies were even a thingWhy audience and content come before product in today's innovation cyclesWhat it takes to rebrand brick-and-mortar hero products for today's digital-first worldWhy micro-influencers are gaining groundHow Ash builds teams that thrive through chaos (and Prime Day curveballs)Connect with Ash on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    REWIND: The Science of Shopping - with Behavioral Researcher & Author Paco Underhill

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 28, 2025 35:38


    This week we're re-airing our episode from this past August with Paco Underhill, renowned behavioral researcher, retail anthropologist, and best-selling author of Why We Buy.Paco has spent decades studying how and why we shop—and what our behavior reveals about the changing nature of retail. In this episode, he and Dave dig into:How physical stores are evolving in a digital-first worldThe surprising shopper trend reshaping the beauty categoryWhat AI can't replicate when it comes to in-store experiencesThe friction points modern brands must solve to win customer loyaltyWhether you're in eCommerce, store design, or brand strategy, this conversation is packed with timeless insights from one of retail's most influential thinkers.Connect with Paco on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Always Ask Why - with Ahold Delhaize USA's Joanna Crishock

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 21, 2025 47:34


    This week Dave is joined by Joanna Crishock, VP of Digital Merchandising & Operations at Ahold Delhaize USA. She shares how she's helping iconic brands like Food Lion, Stop & Shop, Giant Food, and The Giant Company stay agile, customer-focused, and digitally connected.  From her early days in consumer insights to leading omnichannel strategy across merchandising, operations, and retail media, Joanna brings a powerful “why-first” mindset to every challenge.Dave and Joanna discuss:How to bridge retail media and merchandising teamsWhat true customer-centricity looks like in digital retailWhy asking why is the key to better strategy and collaborationHow Joanna's team helps brands deliver personalized, seamless experiencesWhat makes AD USA's retail media offering stand outPlus: from Halloween treat planning to back-to-school dinners, why the best retailers solve for real life, not just transactions.To find out more about AD USA's retail media and full-funnel omnichannel capabilities, reach out to a member of their sales team at ad.retail.media.sales@aholddelhaizeusa.comConnect with Joanna on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Reimagining the Supply Chain – with McLane Company's Murat Genc

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 14, 2025 35:30


    What does it take to digitally transform a $50 billion supply chain business?This week's guest, Murat Genc, President and Chief Information & Digital Officer at McLane Company, shares how he's helping a 130-year-old company embrace the future of technology.From his early days building algorithms in college to leading transformations at P&G, Whirlpool, and now McLane, Murat brings a rare blend of technical depth, leadership savvy, and startup mentality to every challenge he faces.You'll learn about:The “always-on” mindset driving McLane's modernizationBuilding AI assistants that work across every departmentHow emerging brands are breaking through with McLane's helpWhat it really takes to scale transformation across legacy systemsConnect with Murat on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Making the Creative Work Harder — with Retail Media Veteran Brian Anthony

    Play Episode Listen Later Oct 7, 2025 25:49


    This week's guest is Brian Anthony.  Brian  was in retail media before it was even called retail media. From his early days at Triad, helping launch the first LeBron James campaigns on walmart.com, to his current work shaping strategy across RMNs and brands, Brian brings a wealth of perspective to the evolution of the space.In this episode, he and Dave talk about:The early days of retail media and how far it's comeWhat makes great creative (hint: simplicity, alignment, and execution)How to bridge the gap between brand and retailer voiceWhy data is only as good as the creative that brings it to lifeTips for streamlining approval workflows and avoiding late-stage breakdownsWhat every brand should be asking before launching a campaignConnect with Brian on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    The Pivot or Die Mindset - with Pacvue's Melissa Burdick

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 30, 2025 42:44


    This week we welcome Melissa Burdick, Co-Founder and President of Pacvue, the leading Commerce Operating System that unifies retail media, commerce management, and measurement. A former Amazon executive with nearly a decade of experience, Burdick helped launch Amazon's CPG/Health & Beauty retail business and was an early leader in Amazon Advertising. In 2018, she co-founded and bootstrapped Pacvue, scaling it from a startup into a global company with over 700 employees, supporting more than 70,000 brands and agencies across 95+ retailers including Amazon, Walmart, Target, and Instacart. Under her leadership, Pacvue tripled its revenue annually, leading to a high-profile acquisition in 2021. Recognized as a thought leader in the commerce and retail media space, Burdick has been named an Inc. Top 100 Female Founder, Ad Age Leading Woman, P2PI Woman of Excellence, and Campaign's Most Inspiring Woman. She is also a designated Amazon Ambassador and a frequent media commentator, appearing on platforms such as Bloomberg Technology. In this episode, Dave and Melissa cover:The founding story of Pacvue and its explosive growthWhy retail media needs more than automationHow TikTok is rewriting the rules of discovery commerceThe AI use cases that are actually workingWhy ROAS might need a rebrandConnect with Melissa on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Reaching Every Shopper, Everywhere – with Jeff Cohen

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 23, 2025 34:24


    This week we're joined by returning guest Jeff Cohen. Jeff is a go-to voice in the world of retail media. You'll hear Jeff's take on signal-based media, AI-powered ad creation, and the biggest creative blockers that brands still face today. He also shares why strategy, content, and creative execution can no longer live in separate silosConnect with Jeff on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Sustainability That Sells: Turning Purpose into Action - with Marie-Agnés Daumas

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 9, 2025 25:57


    This week we're joined by Marie-Agnès Daumas. With a background spanning TerraCycle and Colgate-Palmolive, Marie-Agnès brings a career's worth of insight into retail leadership, sustainability strategy, and how to connect with the modern consumer.In this episode, she shares lessons from the frontlines of purpose-driven commerce: How to make sustainability resonate at the shelfWhy simple creative matters more than ever The surprising power of a faucet (!) How her team at Terracycle turned a Colgate-Palmolive initiative into a global movementWhy the best shopper marketing blends data, design, and a clear call to actionConnect with Marie-Agnés: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marie-agnes-daumas/Get the It'sRapid Creative Automation Playbook: https://itsrapid.ai/creative-workflow-automation-playbook/Take It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI survey: https://www.proprofs.com/survey/t/?title=ffgvdEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    How to Launch (and Win) with Influencers and Algorithms - with ProductWind's Tim Wilson

    Play Episode Listen Later Sep 2, 2025 34:40


    Dave's guest today is Tim Wilson, Chief Revenue Officer at ProductWind, a platform helping brands use influencer marketing to drive real results—especially in retail environments like Amazon and Walmart.Tim's career has spanned eComm, tech, and analytics—with past roles at CommerceIQ, Pattern, and 1010data. In this episode, he shares what he's learned about launching products, winning with algorithms, and why influencers aren't just for top-of-funnel anymore.We dig into:How to “market to the algorithm” and why it matters for PDP visibilityThe rise of AI-driven search and the battle for the top 5 organic spotsHow ProductWind helps brands use creators to build momentumWhy ROAS is harder to come by—and how to improve it before you spendHow influencer marketing can make retail media more efficientAnd yes, Dave pitches a hot sauce brand. (It actually sounds kind of good.)Connect with Tim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timothywilson/Get the It'sRapid Creative Automation Playbook: https://itsrapid.ai/creative-workflow-automation-playbook/Take It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI survey: https://www.proprofs.com/survey/t/?title=ffgvdEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    The Science of Shopping - with Behavioral Researcher & Author Paco Underhill

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 12, 2025 35:38


    This week's guest is Paco Underhill, renowned behavioral researcher, retail anthropologist, and best-selling author of Why We Buy.Paco has spent decades studying how and why we shop—and what our behavior reveals about the changing nature of retail. In this episode, he and Dave dig into:How physical stores are evolving in a digital-first worldThe surprising shopper trend reshaping the beauty categoryWhat AI can't replicate when it comes to in-store experiencesThe friction points modern brands must solve to win customer loyaltyWhether you're in eCommerce, store design, or brand strategy, this conversation is packed with timeless insights from one of retail's most influential thinkers.Connect with Paco on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    How to Drive Smarter Retail Execution – with Spectrum Brands' Mir Zaman

    Play Episode Listen Later Aug 5, 2025 32:45


    What do rocket science and commercial operations have in common? More than you think!In this episode, Mir Zaman, Vice President of Commercial Operations at Spectrum Brands, shares what he brought with him from the aeropsace industry to Amazon—and now to one of the most diverse brand portfolios in consumer goods. From challenging legacy systems to scaling creative content across categories like pet care, home improvement, and garden, Mir offers a clear blueprint for modern growth.We also dive into:Lessons from nearly a decade at Amazon (and how to keep that entrepreneurial spirit alive in big companies)Building a center of excellence that still feels like part of the teamThe power of two-way door decisions—and knowing when to test, pivot, or go all-inWhy AI will only work in CPG if it's tailored to different stages of maturityConnect with Mir on LinkedInFollow Beyond the Shelf on LinkedInLearn More about It'sRapidGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Smarter Media Measurement and Incrementality – with Clerdata's Meghan Corroon

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 29, 2025 28:01


    This week we're joined by Meghan Corroon, Co-Founder and CEO of Clerdata. In a world full of spend reports, inflated ROAS claims, and buzzwords like "directional" or "efficiency," Clerdata helps brands see clearly which investments are moving the needle - and which are just noise.Meghan brings a deeply analytical mindset (honed through time at the Gates Foundation and beyond) and mixes it with real-world brand empathy. The result? A grounded, accessible conversation on what it takes to really measure media impact, make smarter cross-channel decisions, and bring teams together around the data that matters.Episode highlights:Defining incrementality (without the jargon): Meghan breaks down why it's not just a buzzword — and how true incrementality can drive smarter decisions.Why retail media measurement is still so messy — and how brands can start untangling it without blowing up their workflow.The reality of cross-functional data meetings: what works, what doesn't, and how to avoid death by dashboard.The Amazon trap: Why brands often over-index on tried-and-true media investments (and what they're overlooking).How Clerdata helps teams think more like scientists — challenging assumptions, testing tactics, and shifting from gut to growth.Connect with Meghan on LinkedInGet the It'sRapid Creative Automation Playbook Take It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    How Expert-Led Content Is Rebuilding Brand Trust - with The Desire Company's Eric Sheinkop

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 22, 2025 30:37


    What if you could swap out your influencer campaign…for a NASA astronaut?This week on Beyond the Shelf, Eric Sheinkop, CEO of The Desire Company, breaks down why expert-led content is outperforming traditional UGC and influencer videos—and how his team built a community of world-class experts to power high-converting content across Target, Sam's Club, Best Buy, Amazon, and more.We get into:Why shoppers are craving real expertise at the point of purchaseHow expert-led videos improve conversion—and build trustWhat makes PDP video different from social or UGCHow neuroscience and FTC compliance factor into Desire's content processThe ROI of going video-first—and how brands can scale without burning outConnect with Eric on LinkedIn Get the It'sRapid Creative Automation PlaybookTake It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI surveyEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by MixaudProducer: Jake Musiker

    How Great Retail Events Come Together – with Groceryshop & Shoptalk's Rocquan Lucas

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 15, 2025 34:06


    This week we're joined by Rocquan Lucas, VP of Content at Groceryshop and Shoptalk, where he leads speaker recruitment, agenda development, and content strategy for two of the most influential retail events in the world.Rocquan shares his journey from interning at Internet Week NY to curating high-impact events attended by thousands of the biggest names in CPG, grocery, and tech.In this episode, we talk about:How to design content for 5,000+ attendees – Rocquan shares the mix of research, instinct, and collaboration that goes into building a world-class agenda for Groceryshop and Shoptalk.Behind the scenes of speaker selection – From CEOs to challengers, hear how the team curates speakers who bring both credibility and fresh perspective.Why editorial integrity matters – Rocquan explains why Groceryshop avoids pay-to-play programming—and how that creates trust with both attendees and speakers.The trends shaping 2025 events – GenAI, retail media, and unified commerce are in—but so is creating content that resonates across functional silos.What makes a great on-stage moment – Practical advice for presenters: come prepared, have a point of view, and remember you're there to connect—not recite.Connect with Rocquan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rocquan/Get the It'sRapid Creative Automation Playbook: https://itsrapid.ai/creative-workflow-automation-playbook/Take It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI survey: https://www.proprofs.com/survey/t/?title=ffgvdEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Embracing Change: How to Be Agile in the Age of AI – with Status: Alpha's Alicja Spaulding

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 8, 2025 30:44


    This week we're joined by Alicja Spaulding, Founder of Status: Alpha, who helps marketing leaders operationalize AI, digital transformation, and creative agility.Alicja started her career in the music industry—cutting her teeth in the early days of digital disruption—and has since built brands in architecture, food, and now AI-enabled strategy. She's worked with startups and mid-market manufacturers alike, helping them become more nimble, less siloed, and more prepared for what's next.In this episode, we talk about:How to build marketing teams that are ready for rapid changeThe difference between automation and AI strategyWhy AI isn't your strategy—it's your foundationHow to think about large language models (and when not to)The power of working yourself out of a jobConnect with Alicja: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicjaspaulding/Get the It'sRapid Creative Automation Playbook: https://itsrapid.ai/creative-workflow-automation-playbook/Take It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI survey: https://www.proprofs.com/survey/t/?title=ffgvdEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    REWIND: What's Next in Retail Media Tech – with Walmart Connect's Diana Finster

    Play Episode Listen Later Jul 1, 2025 20:43


    We're off this week, so we're re-airing Dave's interview with Walmart Connect's Diana Finster from earlier this month. They discuss:Walmart's approach to closed-loop measurement and omnichannel ROIHow to balance scale and precision in media strategyThe launch of Walmart Connect's Display Advertising API—and how partners like It'sRapid are helping advertisers move fasterWhat great creative looks like, and why it's core to performanceWhat Diana is focused on heading into Cannes 2025We'll be back next with with a brand-new episode of Beyond the Shelf!Connect with Diana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianabethge/ Get the It'sRapid Creative Automation Playbook: https://itsrapid.ai/creative-workflow-automation-playbook/Take It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI survey: https://www.proprofs.com/survey/t/?title=ffgvdEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    Building Global Content Infrastructure – with Church & Dwight's Julie Clifford

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 24, 2025 30:48 Transcription Available


    This week we're joined by Julie Clifford, Global eCommerce Acceleration & Capabilities Senior Manager at Church & Dwight.Julie's journey from art teacher to global ecommerce leader has one big throughline: helping others succeed. In this episode, she shares how that mindset fuels her work in marketing tech, content strategy, and digital transformation across markets worldwide.We cover:Why global consistency matters—and where localization still winsHow to balance creative agility with brand guardrailsManaging rights, risk, and nuance in global content workflowsThe vendor framework Julie uses (save money, make money, or mitigate risk)How her team is scaling content globally through partnerships—including their work with It'sRapidConnect with Julie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-clifford-salesmarketing/ Get the It'sRapid Creative Automation Playbook: https://itsrapid.ai/creative-workflow-automation-playbook/Take It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI survey: https://www.proprofs.com/survey/t/?title=ffgvdEmail us at sales@itsrapid.io to find out how to get your free AI Image AuditTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    How to Turn Post-Purchase Moments into Ad Revenue – with Thanks' Doron Ostrin

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 17, 2025 28:59


    This week we're joined by Doron Ostrin, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Thanks – the customer-first ad network that's transforming how brands show up after checkout.Doron shares why the most underutilized moment in digital commerce might just be the one right after a purchase—and how Thanks is turning it into a high-performing, brand-building opportunity.We also dig into:Why interruptive advertising needs a rethinkThe creative philosophy behind “ads that don't feel like ads”How Thanks landed a game-changing deal with eBayMaking room for better monetization without killing UXWhy newsletters might be the next frontierRapid Rundown QuestionsFavorite brand using post-purchase media: Cashback platforms — “Free money after checkout. Customers love it.”Most effective creative format: Thanks Embed — “Invites users in instead of pushing. Big performance lift.”Tool you can't live without: Superhuman or LinkedInBook or thinker that shaped your approach: The Hard Thing About Hard Things — “Wartime vs. peacetime CEO mindset.”Hobbies and reset button:Kids and cooking with fire (pizza oven, BBQ, Big Green EggConnect with Doron: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doronostrin/Get the It'sRapid Creative Automation Playbook: https://itsrapid.ai/creative-workflow-automation-playbook/Take It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI survey: https://www.proprofs.com/survey/t/?title=ffgvdEmail us at sales@rapidads.io with code “BEYOND2025” to find out how you can save more than $1,000 on our Digital Sell Sheets and Retail Media Automation solutionsTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

    What's Next in Retail Media Tech – with Walmart Connect's Diana Finster

    Play Episode Listen Later Jun 10, 2025 20:43


    This week we're joined by Diana Finster, Head of Agency, Media & Tech Partnerships at Walmart Connect.Diana's team is leading the charge on what retail media can be—bridging physical and digital, performance and storytelling. With deep experience across brands, agencies, and platforms, she's uniquely positioned to talk about the evolving relationship between content, commerce, and conversion.In this episode, we talk about:Walmart's approach to closed-loop measurement and omnichannel ROIHow to balance scale and precision in media strategyThe launch of Walmart Connect's Display Advertising API—and how partners like It'sRapid are helping advertisers move fasterWhat great creative looks like, and why it's core to performanceWhat Diana is focused on heading into Cannes 2025Whether you're a brand, agency, or platform, Diana's perspective offers a rare look at where the future of retail media is headed.Connect with Doron: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianabethge/ Get the It'sRapid Creative Automation Playbook: https://itsrapid.ai/creative-workflow-automation-playbook/Take It'sRapid's Creative Workflow Automation with AI survey: https://www.proprofs.com/survey/t/?title=ffgvdEmail us at sales@rapidads.io with code “BEYOND2025” to find out how you can save more than $1,000 on our Digital Sell Sheets and Retail Media Automation solutionsTheme music: "Happy" by Mixaud - https://mixaund.bandcamp.comProducer: Jake Musiker

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