Spikes Excitement Talks

What do Japan, customer centricity, aviation, food innovation and AI have in common?In this episode, Gordon sits down with Catherine Beriere, Head of Insight broad experience from Billion dollar brands to digital first scale-ups and currently Global Insight Lead for Animal and Pet at ADM, to discuss a career built on curiosity, cultural bridges and human-centric growth. From uncovering unmet consumer needs in Japan to transforming businesses at Nestlé and improving passenger experiences in aviation, Catherine shares why understanding people remains the ultimate competitive advantage.The conversation also explores leadership, innovation, the future of AI in business and why technology works best when combined with genuine human insight.Tune in for a conversation on growth, curiosity, leadership and the power of putting people at the center of business.

In this episode, Gordon speaks with Dominic Grounsell, Chief Revenue Officer at the UK Post Office, about a career shaped by transformation, curiosity and a relentless focus on impact.From starting out at Unilever, where he learned the foundations of brand marketing, to building data-driven growth models at BT and Capital One, Dominic shares how each industry shift sharpened his understanding of what really drives performance: clarity, accountability and customer impact.The conversation explores why great marketing now sits at the intersection of creativity and analytics, how digital businesses have changed the speed of experimentation and why AI and data are reshaping how companies understand and serve customers.Tune in for a conversation on transformation, data and what it really takes to build brands in a world that changes by the second.

In this episode, Gordon speaks with Julian Sauer, Head of Marketing at Puma Group about his journey from sports journalism into global sports marketing. He shares how a deep passion for sport, especially basketball, shaped his early path into storytelling and ultimately led him from journalism into communications and marketing roles at Audi, Red Bull and Puma.The discussion explores his experience building a career across highly diverse sports and brand environments, from automotive and motorsports to global sports platforms and how he learned to combine strategic thinking with storytelling. Julian reflects on working in fast-moving, international sports organizations, the realities of global sports marketing across regions such as EMEA and Africa and how data, technology and AI are reshaping how sports brands engage with audiences and build emotional connections.Tune in to hear how a lifelong passion for sport can evolve into a global marketing career spanning some of the world's most iconic sports and lifestyle brands.

In this episode, Marcela Gutierrez, Global Head of Digital Analytics & Optimization at Fossil Group, shares how curiosity, continuous learning and taking initiative have shaped her 13-year career journey. From accidentally discovering her passion for analytics to pioneering AI-powered experimentation programs, Marcela explains why the most exciting opportunities often come from creating them yourself.She discusses the future of A/B testing, the impact of AI on decision-making and why the best career moves rarely come from waiting for someone else to offer them.Tune in to learn how curiosity can become a career strategy, why initiative beats waiting for opportunities and what excites one of the leading voices in digital analytics about the future of AI.

In this episode, Philipp Züllich, Global Head of Brand at Deutsche Bank, shares why branding is ultimately about people, stories, purpose and creating meaning.Drawing on experiences from design consulting, agency leadership and now one of the world's most recognized financial institutions, Philipp explores the intersection of strategy, philosophy, creativity and human connection. He explains why brands are built from the inside out, why every employee shapes a brand and why the future of branding may be less about controlling outputs and more about defining identity.Tune in to discover what it means to shape one of Germany's most iconic brands in a world transformed by AI, fragmented touchpoints and changing expectations.

In this episode, Alessandro Panella, Advisory Board Member of Spikes,  speaks with Fabrice Digonnet, EMEA Marketing Director, Transportation & Plastic Business at Dow, about a career built on curiosity, global experience and a deep passion for Material Science, Sustainability and People.From unexpectedly joining Dow in 1995 to working across cultures and leading global innovation projects, Fabrice shares how his journey was shaped by opportunity, intuition and a willingness to embrace change rather than resist it.He also opens up about what makes Dow unique, why chemistry and sustainability have always been central to his mindset and how the future of mobility is being reshaped by recycled materials and regulation-driven innovation.Tune in to know what keeps someone excited after 30 years at the same company and many more insights about leadership, disruptive innovation, materials circularity and the evolving future of mobility in a rapidly changing world.

In this episode, Aidan Beanland, a search industry veteran with nearly three decades of experience spanning the pre-Google era, Yahoo, Silicon Valley and now Optus, explores one of the biggest shifts in digital discovery since the birth of the internet.As search evolves into AI-powered answer engines, Aidan shares his perspective on the rise of Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), the challenges of measuring visibility in a world of AI-generated answers and why the fundamentals of trust, authority and originality matter more than ever.Tune in to know more about the excitement and uncertainty of today's AI revolution and a compelling argument for doubling down on human experience in an increasingly automated world.

In this episode, Virginie Berçot, Global Brand Director at AXA, shares her journey from leading strategic and creative work at some of the world's most respected agencies to shaping one of the most ambitious brand transformations in business today.Virginie discusses why she believes creativity is a powerful force for positive change, how brands can connect business, society and customers and why the future belongs to organizations willing to challenge conventions. She also reflects on AXA's path to being named Cannes Lions Creative Brand of the Year and explains how purpose, consistency and long-term commitment can turn brand strategy into real-world impact.Tune in for insights about ambition, creativity, courage and the evolving role of brands in society.

In this episode, Steph Whitacre, Merchandise Director at Vans, shares her perspective on navigating one of the most transformative periods in retail. From her early days at Bergdorf Goodman and Burberry to leading merchandising at iconic brands, Steph reflects on the growing tension between AI-driven innovation and the enduring importance of product, brand identity and human connection.Tune in to explore how technology is reshaping shopping, why younger generations may be pushing back against a fully digital future and what it takes for brands to stay relevant in an era of constant change.

In this episode, Tatiana Schoch, Head of Marketing Life & Health Re at Swiss Re, shares her journey from academia and brand management to global B2B marketing in the reinsurance industry. From Hong Kong to Zurich, Tatiana reflects on cultural differences in consumer behavior, the power of storytelling in complex industries and how insurance is evolving from reactive protection to proactive resilience. The conversation explores AI, mentorship and why meaningful communication still depends on human insight and strong copywriting.Tune in to know more about storytelling in B2B marketing, cultural insights across global markets and why the future of insurance must become more human, preventive and trusted.

In this episode, Yuri Ezhkov, VP Creative Centre of Excellence at The Estée Lauder Companies, shares his journey from design intern and agency founder to leading global creative transformation. Yuri reflects on the rapid evolution of AI, the importance of prompt engineering and why creativity is still deeply human. From building communities through coffee shops and cosmetics to creating global brand cultures across Asia and beyond, this conversation explores what makes brands truly memorable. Moreover why consistency, emotion and commitment are the real differentiators.Tune in for insights on creativity in the age of AI, building meaningful brands and why human connection still matters more than ever.

In this episode, Laura Sileo Pavat, Global Brand Homes Director at Pernod Ricard, leading the most comprehensive network of spirit venues in the industry. With over 20 years of experience, she drives innovation, brand advocacy and guest experience across 30+ destinations worldwide, bringing energy, vision and bold approaches to the future of experiential transformative tourism.From Scottish distilleries to Champagne maisons and whiskey ranches in Texas, Laura explains why travelers today seek meaningful, transformative experiences, not just destinations. She reflects on her unexpected journey from literature professor and tour guide to global hospitality leader and why “storyliving” is replacing storytelling in modern brand experiences.Tune in for a conversation about experiential travel, human connection and why the future of tourism is all about transformation.

Marketa Kristlova, Marketing Manager for Healthy Biscuits at Mondelēz International, joins Sandra Peat for a conversation about creativity, ambiguity, agility and what it really takes to build relevant brands today.From discovering marketing “by accident” to leading major brand turnarounds at Mondelēz and Müller UK & Ireland, Marketa shares why she's most energized by undefined challenges, future thinking and creating work that delivers a win for brands, business and society alike.Tune in for insights on career pivots, inclusive innovation, creativity inside large corporations and to find out why marketers need space to think, not just sprint.

Dicla Veliz Salce, Global Brand Director for IO Women's Cancer at AstraZeneca, joins Gordon for a deeply thoughtful conversation about purpose, oncology, behavioral science and why innovation only matters when it changes real lives.From starting in pharma sales “by accident” in Mexico to shaping global oncology strategy, Dicla shares how understanding human behavior has become just as important as understanding science. Tune in for a conversation that explores the future of cancer care, the meaning of well-being and why marketing must move beyond products to truly understand human experience.

Matthew Leppanen, Director of Marketing Enablement & Partnerships at Bell, joins Gordon for a conversation about AI, transformation, leadership and why the biggest career opportunities often live in the undefined spaces.From the rise of mobile internet to today's AI boom, Matthew shares what makes this technological shift different  and why leaders should actively “fill the gaps” instead of waiting for permission. Tune in to know more about mentorship, career growth, risk-taking and the lasting impact of leadership.

Julie Jackson-Jones is Director of Marketing CRM Loyalty & Analytics at EssilorLuxottica, where she works across more than 25 brands shaping customer experience, loyalty and patient journeys. Before that, she built her career across industries including luxury fashion, music, logistics and retail with roles at Bulgari, Robert Graham Designs and more. Her unconventional path — from selling subscriptions door-to-door in New York during the financial crisis to leading CRM strategy for global luxury brands — has given her a uniquely human lens on marketing, leadership and customer behaviour.Julie shares why loyalty is ultimately about belonging, how shame and desire shape consumer behaviour and why the future belongs to marketers who deeply understand human psychology. The conversation moves from career setbacks and imposter syndrome to vulnerability in leadership, emotional intelligence in CRM and embracing uncertainty in a rapidly changing world.Tune in for a deep dive into customer psychology, career reinvention and why the strongest brands are built one human interaction at a time.

In this epsiode, Tara King, Senior Director of North America Brand & Portfolio Strategy for Bombay Sapphire at Bacardi, talks about the course of her career and how she has helped shape globally recognised beverage brands across Diageo, Vita Coco and Richmond Marketing — building brands through cultural relevance, emotional resonance and instinct-led strategy. Originally from Ireland and now based in the US, Tara brings a uniquely human perspective to modern marketing: one rooted less in noise and more in meaning.She explores how brands can earn relevance not through louder messaging but through culture, moments and human insight. From moving to New York with no job and no visa, to shaping award-winning campaigns in the spirits industry, she shares her perspective on leadership, creativity, AI and the future of brand building.Tune in for a conversation about instinct, cultural fluency, emotional relevance and why the future of marketing belongs to brands that create meaning.

In this episode Ralitza Iordanova, Global VP, Brand Marketing at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, reflects on what luxury really means today, why hospitality is ultimately about human emotion, and how the future of brands may shift from aspiration to restoration. From leading iconic hotel transformations across cultures to designing experiences that help people regulate their nervous systems, this conversation explores the intersection of luxury, wellbeing, culture and human connection.Tune in to get insights on luxury hospitality, emotional connection and why the future of wellness is about helping people slow down, reconnect and truly feel cared for.

In this episode, Saurav Mohanty, Head of Digital Products & Technology at Yum! Brands Europe, shares a remarkable journey from growing up in rural India to leading digital innovation across global brands. He reflects on how curiosity sparked his path into technology, why product thinking sits at the intersection of business and engineering and what it takes to stay grounded in a fast-moving digital world. With previous roles at EF Education First, Nestlé, IBM, and Accenture, he brings a unique blend of engineering expertise and business acumen. A Harvard MBA graduate, Saurav is passionate about using technology to create meaningful impact—especially in fostering community and supporting future generations in an AI-driven world.Looking ahead, Saurav explores the role of AI in shaping society and why building real human connection and opportunity should be at the heart of it.Tune in to hear how curiosity, resilience and big thinking can turn humble beginnings into a global career in digital innovation and why the future of tech must stay deeply human.

In this episode, Billy Cheng, Head of Consumer Data Activation & CRM at L'Oréal, shares how global experience across Asia, Europe and the US has shaped his approach to consumer data and brand relationships. With experience spanning companies like AS Watson and Reckitt, he has built deep expertise in managing large-scale consumer databases, designing CRM strategies and driving innovation across diverse markets. Billy is focused on developing a broader leadership perspective that bridges data, marketing, and business strategy. From managing databases of over 100 million consumers to driving innovation in CRM and beauty tech, Billy explains why the future isn't just about more data but better trust. He explores the balance between rapid AI-driven innovation and strong governance and why brands that master both will win in the long run.Tune in to discover how data, governance and innovation come together to build meaningful consumer experiences at scale.

In this episode, Gordon sits down with Linda Bethea, Senior marketing executive and former Chief Marketing Officer at Danone with leadership experience at companies like Diageo and PepsiCo. Linda has spent her career building and transforming major consumer brands, combining deep consumer insight with sharp business acumen. Beyond her corporate roles, she also serves as a board director for Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley.Linda shares her unconventional journey from studying psychology to leading iconic brands across food, beverage and beyond. She breaks down why great marketing is about far more than ads, how to truly understand consumers and what it takes to turn around a struggling brand. From reinventing Captain Morgan to navigating the future of AI-driven marketing, Linda offers a candid, experience-rich perspective on building brands that matter—and last.Tune in to learn how world-class brands grow beyond advertising and what it really takes to win in today's fast-changing marketing landscape.

In this episode of Excitement Talks, Sandra Peat speaks with Burcu Sahin, Director of Global Marketing for Portfolio Strategic Initiatives at Mars, about a career driven by curiosity, culture and a deep understanding of people.From starting out in investment banking to discovering her passion for behavioural economics and strategic planning, Burcu shares how a non-linear path led her to global brand building. She reflects on pivotal moments—from navigating visa setbacks that turned into global opportunities to shaping transformative growth strategies for iconic brands.The conversation explores what it really takes to build brands in today's world: understanding evolving consumer values, connecting with new generations and rethinking marketing in a more human, collaborative and culturally relevant way.Tune in to understand better why the future of brand building is about deeply understanding people and co-creating with them.

In this episode, Maik Hofmann sits down with Eugene Lee, Vice President, CMO APAC at CHAGEE, to explore a marketing career shaped by music, emotion and real human connection. From growing up in Malaysia with dreams of becoming a rockstar to leading campaigns for global brands like McDonald's, Eugene shares how creativity, culture and customer obsession define his approach.This conversation dives deep into the power of emotional marketing—from a little girl's reaction to a pink Coke glass to building challenger campaigns that disrupt entire categories. Eugene also reflects on leadership, humility and the art of scaling personal connections in a global business.Tune in to find out why the most powerful marketing doesn't just inform, it creates emotional moments people never forget.

In this episode, Gordon Euchler sits down with Florent Bondoux, Global Head of Digital, E-Commerce, Data & Analytics at Nestlé Health Science, to explore how AI is transforming health, commerce and the way we make decisions. From building a multi-billion health science business inside a global corporation to experimenting with AI-driven habit coaching and personalized wellness, Florent shares a rare inside view on where innovation is actually creating impact today.They dive into the complexity of modern health, the rise of omnichannel commerce and why the real challenge isn't data but changing how people think and act on it. Florent also reflects on leadership, career-defining moments and the growing tension between technological opportunity and societal disruption.Tune in to learn how AI is turning fragmented health data into actionable insights and why simplicity is the ultimate competitive advantage in a complex world.

In this episode, Mahabir Panigrahi, Director of Global Marketing, Consumer & Commercial Analytics Intelligence at The Coca-Cola Company, shares his journey from a self-described “numbers guy” to shaping analytics at global scale.Having worked with Coca-Cola for years as a consultant before joining full-time, Mahabir brings a rare end-to-end perspective on how data, marketing and technology intersect. He explains how analytics has evolved and why the real challenge today isn't access to data, but turning it into fast, actionable insights that drive business decisions.Mahabir dives into the impact of large language models, not as hype, but as practical tools that accelerate workflows, enhance storytelling and democratize analytics across teams. For him, AI isn't a disruption to fear—it's a powerful enabler that expands what's possible, if used with the right mindset.Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how one of the world's biggest brands is adapting to rapid technological change.

In this episode, Andrés Ruiz, Head of Digital and Consumer Experience Middle East at Pernod Ricard, shares his journey from Colombia to Madrid to Dubai and what it takes to lead digital transformation in one of the world's most dynamic regions. With nearly 15 years of experience across brands like Nestlé and agency work on global accounts, Andrés unpacks the realities behind “the glamorous side” of marketing—where strategy, sales alignment and consumer insight matter far more than just ads and social posts.Andrés also reflects on leadership, the importance of soft skills in a tech-driven world and why curiosity and trust from mentors shaped his career. Tune in to get insights on launching disruptive products with global icons to navigating the AI revolution.

In this episode, Chris Fiorillo, Global Head of Marketing at Zurich Resilience Solutions, shares how he's building a marketing engine from the ground up embedded within Zurich Insurance. With a career spanning Infosys, Mondelez and The Adecco Group, Chris brings a unique perspective on creating brands, driving digital transformation and navigating complex corporate environments while thinking like a startup.From his early roots in journalism to leading global marketing strategies, Chris explains why storytelling, strong communication and trust across leadership teams are still the foundations of great marketing. He also reflects on the importance of curiosity, continuous learning and embracing AI—not as a buzzword, but as a real shift that marketers must lead, not follow.Tune in to find out what it takes to stay relevant as AI reshapes everything and much more. 

In this episode, Ciaran McCarthy, VP Brand & Advertising at Microsoft, shares his path from art school in Dublin to his current position at Microsoft. What started with a blunt rejection from a professor became the catalyst for a career spanning agencies, global campaigns, gaming and now the frontlines of AI.Ciaran takes us behind the scenes of creative life and reflects on the pivotal shift from agency to client side, where creativity meets business impact  and what it really means to become a “creative business leader.”Now at Microsoft, Ciaran is at the heart of one of the most transformative moments in technology. He shares how AI is reshaping not just the outputs of marketing, but the entire creative process—from idea generation to prototyping and brand building. Tune in for a deep dive into curiosity, resilience, and what it takes to create meaningful work in an era where the rules are being rewritten in real time.

In this episode, Mélanie Brinbaum Head of Marketing & Consumer Communications Europe at Nestlé, shares her unconventional journey through some of the world's most iconic brands—revealing why passion, curiosity, and authenticity matter more than any carefully crafted career plan. From leading global marketing at scale to pursuing a PhD while raising a family, Mélanie opens up about the reality of juggling ambition with meaning. She reflects on the mentors who shaped her, the personal experiences that redefined her purpose and why she believes marketing's future is more human in the age of AI.Tune in for a reminder that growth comes from stretching yourself, staying curious and having the courage to be unapologetically you.

In this episode, Silke Mennenga Vishab, Co-Head of Design, Brand at JPMorgan Chase, shares her remarkable journey from a small town in Germany to co-leading design for one of the world's largest financial institutions. With roots in agency life and global beauty brands, Silke reveals how early lessons in resilience, craftsmanship, and attention to detail shaped her creative philosophy.She takes us inside the world of large-scale design systems at JPMorgan Chase, where even the smallest detail can impact millions and explains why she sees financial services as a true luxury experience. From designing credit cards like pieces of jewelry to creating immersive airport lounges, Silke shows how great design is about making people feel something.The conversation dives into the power of collecting ideas, the importance of strong creative foundations in the age of AI, and why surrounding yourself with inspiring, challenging people is key to doing your best work. Tune in to know more about the art of turning vision into experience.

In this episode, Miriam Garcke, Marketing Lead NIVEA Face & Skin Care Germany at Beiersdorf, reflects on a two-decade career shaped by iconic brands like Nivea and Eucerin. From launching products seen in millions of households to creating meaningful impact for people with real skin concerns, she shares how her motivation evolved from visibility to purpose.Miriam also talks about the power of strong leadership, trust, and a unique job-sharing model that fuels learning and collaboration. As she transitions back to Nivea, she discusses what excites her most—people, fresh challenges, and the opportunity to keep growing.Tune in to hear more about innovation in skincare, shifting consumer values, and why curiosity—paired with human connection—remains the key driver in an ever-changing industry.

Luke Paxton, VP of New Product Exploration & Incubation at Fidelity Investments, takes us on a journey from architecture and 3D design to the forefront of AI innovation. With a career shaped by reinvention—from startups to skateboards to cutting-edge tech—Luke shares how user experience has been the common thread throughout.The conversation explores how AI is transforming the way we build, learn, and create—removing skill barriers and enabling anyone to turn ideas into reality. Tune in to dive into mentorship, creativity as an adult and why the future belongs to those willing to experiment, learn and think beyond limitations.

In this episode, Gordon is joined by Shruti Bose, Head of Global Campaigns at Roche and former VP at APACD, shares her journey across continents and industries—shaped less by planning and more by embracing opportunity. From “planned happenstance” to her philosophy of “bloom anywhere,” she reflects on building a meaningful career in healthcare communications.The episode explores the shift from treating illness to enabling lifelong health, the impact of AI, and why today's communicators must navigate constant change—and take calculated risks instead of chasing perfect answers.Tune in to find out more about the power of inspiring leadership and why the future belongs to those willing to take calculated risks rather than chase perfect answers.

In this episode, Greg Lombardo VP Global Marketing at Tupperware, shares how great brands don't just grow—they evolve. From reinventing Transformers into a storytelling powerhouse to redefining Play-Doh and rediscovering the emotional core of Tupperware, Greg breaks down what it really takes to unlock a brand's full potential.Tune in for a deep dive into creativity, strategy and the art of staying true to your brand while thinking bigger than your category.

In this episode, Leonora Scarpa, VP at Procter & Gamble, shares what it really takes to build brands in a world where commerce, technology and human behavior are constantly evolving.From a 20+ year journey across innovation, digital commerce and brand building, Leonora reveals why true growth starts with curiosity and why the future of marketing depends on staying deeply connected to real human needs.A conversation on leadership, mentorship, purpose and how to integrate creativity, data and commerce without losing the human at the center.

From the Greek special forces to McKinsey, P&G, Samsung, and until recently CMO at Electrolux—Nikos Bartzoulianos shares a powerful perspective on what it takes to build brands and careers that stand out.This episode dives into the importance of bold choices, authenticity and emotional connection in a world overloaded with options. Nikos explains why great brands don't just compete on features, but on meaning and why being different beats being better.Tune in for a conversation about discipline, storytelling, cultural intelligence and the human edge in marketing.

In this episode, David Dowgiello, Director Global Social Media at Adidas, shares his journey from aspiring sports journalist to shaping global brand conversations at one of the world's most iconic companies.From early days in digital advertising to pivotal roles at Twitter and TikTok, David reflects on building a career at the intersection of culture, technology and sport. He also opens up about moving to Germany, navigating personal setbacks, and why embracing the “underdog mindset” can unlock bold, creative work.Tune in for a energetic conversation about risk, resilience and doing work that genuinely excites you.

In this episode, Gordon hosts Jason Holzman, former Senior Vice President, Creative & Production at Macy's.He shares his unconventional journey from studying literature at Harvard University to leading creative strategy at global brands like NBCUniversal and Macy's.Jason unpacks how storytelling sits at the heart of marketing, why learning “on the job” can be your greatest advantage, and how the future of branding lies at the intersection of entertainment, retail and immersive experiences.Tune in to get insights on leadership, creative feedback and why in an AI-driven world, human authenticity may become the most valuable currency of all.

In this episode, Valda Coryat, VP Marketing Consumer Products & Branded  Food Service at McCormick & Company, shares her journey from an MBA at Columbia University to leading marketing across global giants like Colgate-Palmolive, Heineken and now McCormick & Company.Valda dives into the power of mentorship, the transition from functional to emotional branding, and why trust is the real foundation of great careers. She also explores the shifting dynamics between brands, retailers, and consumers, and what it takes to build brands that endure for generations. Tune in to get insights about how a world shaped by AI and rapid change, the marketers who win will be those who stay human, intuitive and relentlessly curious.

In this episode, Gordon hosts Gaurav Datta, Global VP Personal Care at Unilever who shares how he balances legacy, innovation and consumer obsession across billion-dollar brands. So what does it take to lead some of the world's most iconic brands into the future—without losing what made them iconic in the first place? From leadership lessons to the end of “lazy marketing,” this is a deep dive into what modern brand building really demands.Tune in to learn how to grow legacy brands, lead through complexity, and win attention in a world where just stopping the scroll is already a victory.

In this episode, Gordon Euchler speaks with Thomas Ullram, Global Marketing Director for Taste & Wellbeing at Givaudan. With more than 25 years in the food and beverage industry—from Kraft Foods to flavour houses—Thomas shares how curiosity, consumer insight, and bold marketing shape the future of what we eat and drink. They explore the fast-changing world of flavours, the power of provocative brands, and why the most valuable career lessons often come from the toughest bosses.Tune in to hear why understanding consumer curiosity, embracing change and even learning from the bosses you didn't like can shape a truly flavorful career.

In this episode, Dave Cobban speaks with Sierra Thomas, Head of Brand Innovation at Crocs. Starting with a background in fine arts and art history, Sierra found her path into marketing just as social media was emerging as a powerful business tool. She shares how creativity, curiosity, and agile thinking shape modern brand building—from rapid-response marketing to culturally relevant campaigns. The conversation explores agency vs. brand-side life, the power of mentorship, and why the future of marketing may actually be more human and more “in real life” than ever before.Tune in to learn how creativity, culture, and agile thinking help brands move at the speed of the internet and why the future of marketing may be more human than ever.

In this episode, Gordon talks with Nikita Kucheryavy, Digital Activation Head at Mars Petcare, about his journey from professional ballroom dancer to a decade-long career at Mars. Nikita shares how the company's culture and values shaped his path, what it means to work at the intersection of retail media, marketing, and e-commerce, and why embracing change—especially in the age of AI—is essential for marketers today.Tune in to get how curiosity, purpose and adaptability fuel long-term growth.

In this episode, Gordon Euchler speaks with Anja Spielmann, VP Global Brand Strategy & Growth at Mars' Royal Canin, about building brands with long-term thinking.From starting as a marketing assistant at Ferrero to leading global brand transformations at Mars, Anja shares lessons on courage, leadership, and why choosing the right manager matters more than choosing the right job.They explore the power of family-owned companies, what marketers can learn from category dynamics, how she helped transform Ben's Original and why the future of marketing will be radically reshaped by AI.Tune in to find out why choosing the right manager matters more than choosing the right job. 

In this episode, Gordon Euchler speaks with Robyn Parks, Vice President and National Head of Marketing Strategy & Growth at Verizon.Robyn shares the unconventional path that took her from engineering studies to HR, and eventually into marketing leadership—building a two-decade career inside one company. She talks about the power of mentorship, why breadth of experience early in a career can matter more than rapid promotions, and how some of the biggest professional lessons come from parenting.They also explore leadership during the COVID era and why chasing impact matters more than chasing titles.Tune in to understand why the future of marketing will be shaped where technology, humanity and business meet.

In this episode, Gordon hosts Per Christiansen, Consultant - Brand, Marketing & Media at Advisory. From agency strategist to global marketing leader at KAYAK, Per shares what it really takes to scale travel brands at speed. He walks us through the high-stakes growth journey of Momondo — scaling fast, entering new markets in weeks and treating marketing like an investment portfolio, not an ad department. The conversation dives into experimentation at scale, why marketers must “throw the textbooks out the window,” and how even hard-to-measure channels like Premier League sponsorships can be turned into measurable growth engines.Tune in for a conversation about curiosity, challenger thinking and staying objective in a world where every channel eventually peaks.

In this episode, Gordon speaks with Omer Waysman, VP Marketing B2C North America at Michelin, who shares a powerful journey across industries — from Microsoft to Danone — and across continents, from Paris to the American South.What unfolds is more than a marketing career. It's a masterclass in resilience, brand building, and servant leadership. Omer opens up about failing spectacularly during a live demo, why selling a product you don't love can make you a better marketer and how winter tires can create an emotional experience of trust. Most of all, he reveals why the real KPI that excites him isn't market share — it's people growth.Tune in for insights about culture, confidence and what it really means to build brands that matter.

In this episode, Gordon sits down with Alex Nicholson, Senior Director of Digital Strategy at AstraZeneca, whose career spans from record stores and underground event promotion to leading social media transformation at USA TODAY and working with iconic brands like National Geographic.A true early pioneer of social media (full-time since 2007), Alex reflects on riding the first wave of digital disruption and what today's AI boom can learn from it. From securing facebook.com/USAToday in the early days to training 140 journalists to break news on Twitter, she shares hard-earned lessons about change management, authenticity, and the tension between technology and humanity. The conversation dives into connection, credibility, media responsibility and why the future may belong to those who can contextualize, not just create.Tune in for a exploration of digital evolution  and a reminder that in every wave of innovation, the real opportunity lies in understanding how humans connect.

In this episode, Gordon sits down with Katie Fernands, former Marketing Director at Prudential Financial and former VP Growth Marketing Manager at U.S. Bank, to explore the deeply human side of money. From personal loss and becoming a primary caregiver to shaping ultra-high-net-worth strategies, Katie shares how her lived experiences transformed her understanding of financial stability. She reveals how curiosity drew her into the industry, why “simplicity is a superpower,” and how AI should free us for deeper human connection—not replace it. Tune in for a future-facing conversation on emotional money and why the most rational decisions often begin with understanding what we feel.

In this episode, Gordon speaks with Bhavna Satyanarayan, Head of Corporate Brand Strategy & Positioning at BASF.From agency life to global leadership roles across India, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur, Bhavna shares how storytelling, strong mentorship and bold career moves shaped her journey — including returning to BASF after exploring new paths at Volvo Buses. They discuss aligning brand with business strategy, building global teams from scratch, the power of purpose-driven brands like Patagonia, and why the future of marketing lies in bringing humans and AI together — not choosing between them.Tune in for a conversation about curiosity, courage, and crafting brands that truly stand for something.

In this episode, Sandra speaks with Ginevra Adamoli-Kalbli, Director of Marketing Intelligence and Digital Analytics at Marriott International.From academia and early social media research to agency life at Epsilon and global hospitality, Ginevra shares how her love of culture, diversity, and understanding people shaped a non-linear and powerful career in analytics.They explore the evolution of “big data,” the challenge of connecting fragmented customer journeys, and why AI isn't optional anymore — it's about how creatively you use it.Tune in for a sharp conversation about insight, innovation, and the future of marketing intelligence.