The B-side with James Barrow

Ever wonder how personal experiences fuel creativity? On episode 46 of The B-side with James Barrow podcast, I catch up with Jonathan Seidler, an author, creative director, and music critic who brings a fresh perspective on culture and mental health. He's written for The Guardian, Sydney Morning Herald, and The Australian, and has a column for Esquire that dives into men's mental health and fatherhood. With a background at agencies like Leo Burnett and M&C Saatchi in Australia and London, Jonathan knows how to craft campaigns that resonate.His memoir, It's A Shame About Ray, got rave reviews and was even turned into a live performance at the Sydney Writers' Festival 2023. Plus, his debut novel, All the Beautiful Things You Love, is out now from Pan Macmillan.We kick it off talking about Jonathan's background and how he went from studying law to find a home in the creative industry. He shares some personal stories about the people and experiences that shaped his creative journey, what fuels his creativity and how his diverse influences come together in his work. He also talks about his love for music (being an unashamed Nu-metal apologist) and how creative polymaths like Tyler, the Creator and Pharrell inspire him.We jam on his creative process, exploring how he goes from a rough idea to a finished project using the 12 box method. Jonathan opens up about the emotional heart of his memoir, It's A Shame About Ray, and why writing about his father's struggles with mental illness felt so important to him. Then we get into the inspiration behind All the Beautiful Things You Love. Jonathan reflects on the experiences he and his ex-partner went through after their breakup, including selling their shared belongings and the interesting characters he met along the way.He also gives some great tips for beating creative block and staying inspired. Plus, he reflects on a piece of work he's particularly proud of and talks about how having diverse experiences and interests shapes his storytelling. And as we wrap up, he shares some solid advice for anyone looking to follow a similar path, along with his creative philosophy.This was a fascinating conversation, full of insights that are both inspiring and practical. If you want to learn more about how personal experiences drive creativity and the value of diverse perspectives in storytelling, give it a listen. Cheers!All the Beautiful things you love is available here: https://www.panmacmillan.com.au/9781761269547/or here: https://www.amazon.com.au/All-Beautiful-Things-You-Love/dp/1761269542 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wondered how advertising can drive real social change? On this episode 45 of the B-Side, I catch up with Simone Waugh, the Managing Director at Publicis Worldwide Australia. Simone is an industry powerhouse, all about using advertising to make a positive impact through the power of creativity. She's worked across a range of sectors including tourism, healthcare, education, and sports. She even led the communications for the winning Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games bid with the Queensland Government.We jam on her campaigns like "Lag Kills," tackling youth drink driving by highlighting the dangers of lag in video games, and "Red Flags," a campaign aimed at educating the community about coercive control to combat domestic violence. Simone shares her passion for amplifying First Nations voices and her role as the executive sponsor for Publicis' ANZ's emBRACE employee resource group. She also dives into ScUber, the world's first submarine rideshare program, designed to raise awareness about Australia's reef ecosystem and protect coral reefs.We unpack what it takes to build effective community campaigns and explore a range of other concepts like Simone's concept of "Kairos time" – and Simone shares memorable moments from her career, the challenges she's faced, and her vision for the future of advertising and social impact.Simone's insights are both inspiring and practical. This was a fascinating conversation, if you want to learn more about how advertising can drive meaningful change and how you can contribute to social impact through your own work. Give it a listen. Cheers.You can find Simone on LinkedIn hereOr get in touch with Publicis Worldwide Australia here Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On episode 44 of the B-Side podcast, I catch up with Toby Aldred, the newly appointed Managing Director of Saatchi & Saatchi Australia and Chief Client Officer The Neighbourhood. With close to two decades worth of experience at two of the world's leading ad agencies, Saatchi & Saatchi and M&C Saatchi, in London and Sydney, Toby's insights on the business of creativity are remarkable.As a long-termer at Saatchi & Saatchi, Toby's track record speaks volumes. From spearheading Effie award-winning brand campaigns to nurturing client relationships, he's at the forefront of creative effectiveness and client success.Toby and I go behind the scenes on the recent award-winning "Life's Little Moments" campaign for Arnott's, where we explore some of the strategic thinking that went into it, and some of the marketing decisions that led to its success. We jam on commercial creativity, leadership, and all things advertising effectiveness, cricket (which I know very little about), and most importantly why he called his cavoodle 'Kitten'. He shares his passion for collaboration, dedication to his team, maintaining perspective, and a healthy work-life balance.This episode offers a candid glimpse into Toby's world, showcasing his commitment to driving results and shaping the advertising landscape. His down-to-earth nature, super sharp wit, and insights into the industry make for a wonderfully informative and inspiring listen. So grab yourself a cuppa and an Arnott's biscuit, and enjoy my chat with Toby. Cheers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Ever wondered what it takes to lead a cutting-edge post-production studio?On episode 43 of the B-Side, and the first for 2024, I speak to Will Alexander, the Co-Founder and Executive Producer of Heckler, one of APAC's leading design, VFX, and post-production houses.Heckler was founded in 2010, with studios in the iconic Paramount Building in Surry Hills, Sydney, and the vibrant TALOK AYER STREET in Singapore. Recognised at all of the world's top awards shows, like D&AD, Cannes Lions, and Spikes Asia, Heckler's Sydney and Singapore studios house top-notch post-production suites and a team, including some of the best in the business.Will has almost two decades of experience; he has produced thousands of TVCs, music videos, art installations, live events, activations, and experiential performance pieces. Notably, he was the Executive Producer of the AACTA Award-Winning Animated Film 'A Cautionary Tail,' starring Cate Blanchett.We discuss his creative philosophy and approach to work, emphasising the importance of "owning the morning." His discipline, resilience, and commitment to empowering his team define not only his personal journey but also the ethos of Heckler.We chat about all things Heckler and what it takes to lead such a successful production company. We delve into all things visual effects and post-production. And chat about the enduring power of storytelling, adapting to tech shifts, and maintaining a client-centric approach. There's a healthy dose of hip-hop references, carwash ventures, and some real talk on men's health, battling depression, and going sober.Will's journey is a powerful testament to resilience and creativity. He's not just a visionary executive producer and founder; he's deeply passionate about his team and giving back to the community.This was a cracking episode to kick off the year with; I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Cheers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How does prompt engineering, sports coaching, and driving ROI intersect with media communications?On episode 42 of The B-side with James Barrow podcast I chat with Jason Tonelli, CEO of Zenith Australia. Jason brings over two decades of profound expertise in media, technology, and advertising to our conversation. His career path weaves through pivotal roles, from driving digital marketing revolutions to steering innovative creative businesses. At the helm of Zenith Australia, Jason champions excellence in media solutions and collaborative ventures across diverse industries.Beyond his pivotal role at Zenith, Jason is a trailblazer actively shaping the industry landscape through influential board positions, including the Audited Media Association of Australia (AMAA) and the School of Marketing and Advertising at RMIT University. His visionary leadership and forward-thinking strategies underscore his dedication to propelling the media and advertising sectors forward.Jason shares insights drawn from his extensive experience. Together, we explore pivotal themes reshaping the industry like:AI and Media Communications: Discover the intriguing blend of AI, prompt engineering, and fostering curiosity within media communications. Jason unravels how these elements converge to reshape problem-solving methodologies and cultivate a culture of continuous learning within media organisations.Zenith's ROI Strategies: Explore the strategies behind Zenith's renowned title as "The ROI Agency." Jason offers insights into the agency's methodologies, consistently delivering tangible returns on investments within the dynamic media landscape.Leadership Coaching and Team Success: Delve into the nuanced parallels between leadership coaching and sports coaching. Jason shares invaluable perspectives on tailored coaching approaches, emphasising their profound impact in amplifying individual skills, fostering cohesive team dynamics, and steering overall success within corporate environments.This was a cracking episode, packed with highly engaging insights, providing fresh perspectives and thought-provoking ideas that redefine success within the landscape of media and advertising. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we strike the right balance between business smarts and creative freedom to drive brand success?In this episode of the b-side, I sit down with Simon Brock, a digitally-native creative and agency leader who's reshaping the advertising world by serving as both the ECD (Executive Creative Director) and Managing Director at Digitas ANZ, effectively bridging the gap between traditional roles.Since 2016, Simon has been at the helm of Digitas ANZ's creative department, crafting impactful stories and experiences for brands like Arnott's, EA Games, Pernod Ricard, and Virgin Australia. We delve into a range of compelling topics, including: Balancing creativity and business growth within the unique framework of Simon's dual roles. Leveraging data-driven insights while preserving the emotional and human elements in today's data-rich marketing landscape. Strategies for adapting creative concepts across various channels, capitalising on each platform's strengths. Managing the equilibrium between personalised messaging and user privacy amidst evolving regulations. And he shares his novel 'Sober, Tipsy, Drunk' method of creative development, fostering calculated risk-taking and agile campaign adaptations to changing market conditions.This episode offers an insightful exploration of marketing technology, digital strategies, and multi-channel creativity. Simon's exceptional perspective as both a creative and business leader makes this conversation truly valuable. I hope you find our discussion as enlightening as I did.Cheers Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can creative strategy, curiosity, and courage drive brand success in today's marketing landscape?In Episode 40 of the B-Side, I speak with Catherine King, Chief Strategy Officer at Leo Burnett Australia. With over two decades of industry experience, Catherine's journey is remarkable. From her Western Sydney roots, influenced by a Taiwanese mother and a Scottish father, to her diverse career spanning journalism, startups, and advertising.We explore Catherine's fascinating career, from securing VC funding during the dot-com era to advising the World Bank and even trying her hand as a chef. Dive into her deep and diverse insights, and her emphasis on resonating with customers' desires and beliefs, and tapping into emotions and values that truly connect with audiences.Catherine also discusses balancing complexity and simplicity in advertising and the value of team collaboration in creating memorable campaigns. She highlights the need for strategy to complement creativity, enhancing creative freedom. We discuss how to provide value in advertising by solving customer pain points first. And the importance of believability, product authenticity, and trust for brands to better connect with their audiences.This episode is a deep dive into the mind and life influences of a remarkable strategic leader. I hope you find it as thought-provoking as I did. Cheers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In the weeks ahead, I invite you to revisit some past episodes. Taking this time to reflect allows us to gauge their relevance in today's world.One of these episodes, from Episode 18 of The B-side, features a captivating conversation with Tyson Yunkaporta—an academic, art critic, researcher, and author from the Apalech Clan in far north Queensland. Tyson delves into indigenous wisdom and knowledge systems as shared in his book "Sand Talk."While this episode doesn't explicitly address Australia's "Voice to Parliament," it intriguingly offers a unique opportunity to delve into indigenous culture and knowledge systems, shedding light on their lasting significance. It underlines the value of sitting alongside others, truly listening to their stories, and showing respect for differing opinions and thoughts—regardless of whether we agree. At its core, this mindset highlights the idea that every one of us contributes to this narrative, thus enriching its tapestry.As Australians continue to engage in ongoing discussions that will inevitably shape our culture and collective future, some may find this episode to be a thought-provoking reminder of the depth of indigenous wisdom. By drawing from indigenous perspectives, we may contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of the diverse range of viewpoints that exist.Join me in rediscovering the treasures within Tyson's book "Sand Talk" and gain new insights and respect for diverse perspectives. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we craft connected customer experiences in an increasingly fragmented media landscape?In episode 38 of the B-side, I had the privilege of speaking with Patrick Rowe, CEO of Saatchi and Saatchi Australia.Patrick is a creative agency leader with a proven track record of building high-performance agencies that deliver impactful, award-winning work. With over 20 years as a senior member of the Publicis Groupe team, working across Sydney and Melbourne with a wealth of expertise in retail, government, automotive, and financial services, Patrick's insights are invaluable.He shares details of his mission and his vision for leading Saatchi and Saatchi into new areas of opportunity and growth, as well as his leadership philosophy. Patrick discusses how the agency is helping brands optimise their marketing strategies across traditional and digital platforms, creating cohesive connected customer ecosystems. We also explore how advertising agencies can enhance the complete customer experience.And Patrick discusses the key ingredients for a successful client and agency partnership while unpacking the details of the client growth loop.This was a truly thought-provoking conversation. Patrick's deeply caring style of leadership, rock-solid strategic mindset, and down-to-earth approach is truly inspiring. I hope you enjoy the interview as much as I did. Cheers! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we use creativity to drive sustainability action on a global scale?On the latest episode of The B-Side with James Barrow - the first for 2023, I had the pleasure of chatting with Mike Spirkovski, the former chief creative officer of Saatchi & Saatchi Australia. He is now the co-founder of Rethink Everything, a creative company that solves complex business problems by integrating creativity and imagination to create positive and sustainable change.Mike shares his experience in the advertising industry, where he developed a passion for creating impactful ideas for good. He discusses how this led him to double down on this journey to co-found Rethink Everything, which provides him access to experts from various fields, such as environmental science, sustainability, marketing, public relations, and politics, allowing him to extend his reach beyond traditional agencies.He explains the Rethink Everything business model and how he is partnering with brands to tackle some of society's most significant challenges. Like Citizens of the Great Barrier Reef, spearheading the Great Reef Census campaign, a groundbreaking global citizen science effort to survey and protect the largest reef system in the world.We discuss how organisations can integrate sustainability initiatives into their brand purpose rather than keeping them as part of a separate ESG strategy. And we jam on purpose-driven marketing, measuring the success of sustainability campaigns, the perils of greenwashing, and the need for brands to be authentic in their actions and marketing communications.Mike and the Rethink Everything are committed to making a difference and creating unprecedented, wide-reaching impact. It was a fascinating and inspiring conversation and I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Cheers!You can find Mike here: linkedin.com/in/mike-spirkovski-6087a113Learn more about Rethink Everything here: http://rethinkeverything.au/Take part in the Great Reef Census here: https://greatreefcensus.org/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On episode 36 of the B-side I speak to Australian boxing legend Nader Hamdan. Once ranked No.2 in the world behind Oscar De La Hoya in 2003. He fought some of the world's best, across all corners of the globe waging wars against the likes of Anthony Mundine, Arthur Abraham, Sam Soliman, and John Wayne Parr.He's thrown his hat into the entertainment ring, appearing on shows like The Contender, East West, Mr Inbetween, The Ropes, Heartbreak High, and Underbelly.We talk about growing up in the diverse and once working-class suburb of Marrickville, where he was bullied as a child and became an angry, out-of-control teenager; who turned his life around by taking his passion for fighting off the street and into the ring at Newtown Police boys club. There he met trainer and fellow Marrickville legend, world champion boxer Jeff Fenech.He talks about his boxing career, shares the details of his toughest fight, and the drive that gave him the ability to push through serious injuries and never take a backward step, earning him the ring name 'Lionheart'.We discuss what happens behind the scenes of a fight promotion, the rules of trash talk, and how he caught the attention of some of the world's best once he started embracing the bad-boy persona. And we jam on the merit of 'entertainment' or 'exhibition' fights in the boxing world where YouTubers like Jake Paul or ex-footballers like Paul Gallen and Sonny Bill Williams fight legitimate boxers or MMA stars like Mark Hunt.Nader talks about his son Hassan Hamdan, a potential boxing champion in his own right, who is following in his dad's footsteps, being coached by Jeff Fenech and making waves on the boxing scene.And he talks about the principles of discipline, respect, and self-belief, being crucial to establishing his successful career in boxing, and have become the driving force behind his mission to help bring direction to troubled youth and help others turn their lives around.This was a cracking episode, Nader is a beautiful soul and a great friend, I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. Cheers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we create work that prods and provokes, with devastatingly positive commercial consequences?On episode 35 of the B-side I speak to Rob Campbell, Chief Strategy Officer of Colenso BBDO NZ, Aotearoa. Rob is an ex-session guitarist turned strategic advertising firebrand who believes in living on the edges creatively and in the power of culture, creativity and chaos. He has worked all around the globe, with some of the biggest brands like Nike, Spotify, Virgin and even Metallica at agencies like Wieden+Kennedy, and R/GA. He is now leading the strategic charge at Colenso BBDO, one of the most awarded agencies in the world. We discuss his new book Dream Small, where a group of planners and a photographer went on a road trip across New Zealand to capture how youth culture expresses how they see their life, and future, without a filter. The work uncovered some uncomfortable truths that go against the perception of New Zealand being a utopia of progress and harmony.He shares his creative approach, strategic methods, and the importance of building a culture where people are free to take risks, create chaos, and make scary good work. Rob drives home the need for diverse perspectives, the reason brands should have a point of view not just a proposition, and how brands can connect with culture rather than just being observers of it. This was a cracking episode, confronting in some ways but filled with fresh, brutally honest ideas and opinions, that give us clients and creatives plenty to think about. He is an absolute gentleman, and I fricken' loved chatting to him. Cheers, Oh, and Apologies for the poor audio quality, I had a few tech issues.You can find Rob here: https://www.colensobbdo.co.nzOr reach out to him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-campbell-723593/ Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can robots really be creative?In episode 34 of the B-side, I speak to Richard Savery, a developer of artificial intelligence and robotics, who is trying to find answers to this question and many more through music and creativity.He is a Research Fellow at Macquarie University, developing new robotic musicians, like Shimon, a freestyle rapping, singing, jazz improvising, and marimba playing robot. He completed a PhD in Music Technology (minor in Human-Computer Interaction), at the Georgia Institute of Technology, graduating in 2021.Richard's work has received widespread media attention, including a Guinness World Record for ‘First robot to participate in a rap battle', articles in Scientific American, BBC Radio, and The World According to Jeff Goldblum.He has authored hundreds of papers, some of which I refer to on the show; he's composed and orchestrated many video games, films and ads, including Fast Four featuring Roger Federer and worked for 15 years as a professional saxophonist, clarinettist and flutist.We discuss his research, and the science behind creativity in robotics and AI. How robotic musicians don't just work for us, but with us as collaborators, like equal members of a band adding their own unique style of creative spontaneously.I learn about the difference between mechanomorhphic and anthropomorphic robotic design principles. And ask if the robot music industry will put human creatives out of a job. Thankfully, according to Richard, it's more likely that the future will see robots working alongside us to create better work, not replace us, anytime soon.This was an incredibly thought-provoking and super exciting chat on the convergence of robotics, AI, and creativity. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.You can find Richard Savery and learn more about his awesome work here: https://richardsavery.com/about Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Why aren't there more creative voices in politics and what will it take to shake up the status quo?Episode 33 of the B-side is an Australian federal election edition featuring Jane Caro. An Award winning Australian columnist, author, novelist, broadcaster, documentary maker, feminist, social commentator, and advertising luminary who's running for a seat in the senate representing the Reason party.Jane pulls absolutely no punches as we discuss what the Reason party stands for, their principles on climate change, women's rights and equality for all, the erosion of public education, and the need for change towards a rational, honest, and transparent government.I have interviewed people from all sides of the political spectrum, and what I do believe is that competition and creative friction creates better outcomes. I believe healthy competition is good for everyone.Regardless of your political persuasion Jane Caro delivers a timely and powerful pitch for us to vote for healthy change. So I hope to see you at the local polling booth this weekend and if you mention the B-side I'll even shout you a democracy sausage.You can find out more about Jane Caro and Support the Reason Party here:  https://www.janecaro4reason.com.au Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we be better listeners, and what's the difference between active and deep listening? On episode 32 of The B-side, I speak to Oscar Trimboli, a global expert on listening, author, host of the Apple award-winning podcast Deep Listening and a sought-after keynote speaker. He is a marketing and technology industry veteran, having worked for Microsoft, PeopleSoft, Polycom, and Vodafone. He consults for American Express, AstraZeneca, Google, PwC, and Salesforce, and he's on a mission to create 100 Million deep listeners worldwide. Oscar has interviewed hundreds of the most diverse workplace listeners, including Air traffic controllers, hostage negotiators, spies, and foreign language interpreters, as part of research into world-class listeners and the barriers to effective listening.Throughout the episode, he role models deep listening and explains how we can all be more effective listeners, unlocking greater value from our interactions and reducing the costs associated with poor listening. He describes the neuroscience of listening, the five levels of listening, and how we can listen beyond the words being said to determine what the speaker is really trying to communicate.Oscar's refreshingly honest, pragmatic, guru-like approach and delivery is graceful, light-hearted, yet powerful and insightful. I hope you enjoy listening to the episode as much as I did.You can connect with Oscar here: https://www.oscartrimboli.comAnd take the Listening Quiz here: https://www.oscartrimboli.com/listeningquiz/ Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can graffiti writing and hip-hop be used as a force for good?On Episode 31 of the B-side, I speak to Matthew Peet, aka Mistery, one of Australia's most long-standing, influential, and prolific graffiti writers and a pioneer of hip-hop culture down under.Matt has been spraying walls, striking B-boy stances, spitting knowledge, and spreading the good word since the 80s. His work can be seen throughout Sydney (with many pieces covering walls in my old stomping ground of Petersham) and across the world, from the UK, France, Belgium, USA, Germany and New Zealand. And he's been commissioned by Coca Cola, Sydney Theatre Company, the Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) and MAD Magazine, along with doing hundreds of pieces for many private and community-based organisations.Mistery discusses growing up in the multicultural melting pot of Sydney's southwest and inner west in the '80s and how hip-hop brought people from all backgrounds together. And how he moved away from a destructive path of gangs and spraying walls illegally to a more positive one, using graffiti and other elements of hip-hop culture as a means of creative development and expression. Rather than defiance of authority.He shares how this journey led him to find faith and become a Christian Minister. And then an educator with The Street University, using his artistic skills to work with youth and help them find a positive outlet for their creativity.We jam on the difference between street artists and graffiti writers and the nuances between the various styles. Matthew shares his creative process, his approach to writing at scale, and how he comes up with his ideas. And we draw parallels between graffiti art and brand advertising. Where frequency, reach, context, novel uses of media, and a deep understanding your audience is crucial if you want your brand to be seen and noted.Matthew Peet's work and energy have inspired me since I was a kid. I find his art, passion for hip-hop culture, and dedication to his community as inspiring today as ever. I hope you enjoy the episode as much as I did in recording it.You can see more of Matthew's work here: https://piecesofmistery.comGain some creative direction and knowledge at The Street University: https://streetuni.com.auOr connect through a shared passion for hip-hop and faith at Krosswerdz: https://krosswerdz.com Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does innovation in the retail space look like? And how can we develop more impactful customer experiences?Hello and welcome to episode 30 of the B-side and our first episode for 2022. I'm kicking off the year with an awesome chat with Matt Newell, CEO and founder of The General store.Matt's journey started out with a degree in music and dreams of making it on the big stage. But with the advice of his dad he caught the agency bug, found a new passion, and built a career as a strategist in the advertising industry. Before founding his own agency, The General Store, in 2012, which has quickly become one of Australia's leading agencies dedicated to retail strategy and innovation.Matt talks about how he sets his agency apart from others, by focusing first on outcomes and delivering impact, as opposed to the outputs. And in creating genuine, informal client relationships. Where he and his team are seen as trusted partners, not just order takers. He picks my brains on what makes for an excellent agency-client relationship, given I've worked on both sides of the fence. He discusses the differences between online and bricks and mortar retail strategies. The two types of shopping experiences. What retail innovation is and what the future of retail looks like, it's not all Apple stores and Amazon guys.We reflect on the rising power of retail brands, with their ownership of rich audience insights and control over vast retail ecosystems. And we cover the challenges faced by the retail sector, tackling some tough questions like why delivery is outsourced to third parties. Why customers should carry the burden of trust with an online purchase. And how can we improve the online transaction model to benefit both the vendor and the customer.And he shares his leadership philosophy, centred on developing positive environments where optimistic people can thrive and where creativity and innovation emerge organically.This was such an insightful and refreshing chat and a cracking episode to kick the year off with. I thoroughly enjoyed hearing Matt's thoughts on retail marketing, customer experiences, innovation and strategy, and I know you will too. Cheers.You can find Matt Newell and learn more about The General Store here: https://www.thegstore.com.au      Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Some scientists believe water is conducive to creativity. I test this theory on Episode 29 of the B-side by jumping onto a boat and heading out into unscripted waters with award-winning Australian Photographer Ali Nasseri and Chief Marketing Officer Sophie Paulin.Ali is a qualified lawyer who ditched the courtroom for a camera to become a commercial photographer working with some of the world's leading advertising networks and design agencies. He is behind the highly regarded 'Bondi Republic', a photographic book celebrating Australia's most iconic suburb.Sophie is the CMO of Ordermentum, an ordering, payments, and insights platform for the food and beverage industry. A strategic and passionate marketing and digital specialist, having worked across a diverse portfolio of clients, companies, and digital disciplines, who is now shaking things up in the hospitality tech sector.Ali, Sophie and I discuss how Covid-19 impacted their respective sectors and share some of the reasons to be optimistic about 2022. We reflect on the maturity of the internet and the increasing adoption of tech in a more globally-connected, locally-engaged world.We  jam on the basics of blockchain, how NFT's could increase the value of digitally created content, and the resurgence of analogue film in cinema. Then we get into a freestyle flow-state on the very nature of ideas, whether religion just needs an update, and the mysteries of the metaverse. And just for shits and gigs we clumsily cover everything from quantum computing to cryptos; politics to single-shot photography too.This was such a fun episode to record, and on a boat in the middle of Sydney Harbour, no less. After close to two years of zoom sessions due to lock-down restrictions, a return to actual, in-person recordings was an absolute delight. Sophie and Ali are amazingly positive spirits filled with optimism and raw creative energy, and they're absolutely hilarious. I hope you have as much fun listening to the episode as I did recording it. You can find Ali Nasseri here: http://www.alinasseri.comAnd Sophie Paulin here: https://au.linkedin.com/in/sophiepaulinAnd a special thank you must go to the captain of the ship CEO of The General Store, Matt Newell, for making such an incredible day happen. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to lead the merger of two agency brands into one culturally aligned and growing business force that has quickly become one of Australia's leading media agencies?On Episode 28 of the B-side, I speak to Imogen Hewitt, CEO of Spark Foundry Australia, one of the world's leading media agencies and part of the Publicis network.Imogen has spent the last 20 years learning and honing her strategic leadership skills in full service, media, and creative agencies both in Australia and South-East Asia. A true marketing powerhouse, she was listed on Campaign Asia's 2017 and 2020 'Women to Watch list, and has been recognised on B&T's Women in Media Power List every year since 2017.Imogen chats about growing up in a working-class family in Balmain and how her fortunes changed after winning a 25k scratchy ticket that helped put her through private school and sparked her passion for working in the advertising industry.She talks about building a career  working in creative and media agencies and how this experience fostered her ability to think across disciplines and channels—giving her a hybrid strategic point of view. And how she has applied this strategic lens to the challenges faced as a new CEO, like combining two agencies with their own cultures, improving team morale, and turning around the business with a string of new business wins throughout Covid-19.We discuss why there aren't more strategists and creatives in CEO roles leading creative and media agencies. Why marketers aren't better at marketing themselves, and how she is carving out a unique point of difference for Spark through their guiding strategic pillars of people, product, and positioning.We jam on what makes for a successful client-agency relationship. Why creative and media agencies can work better together. And the importance of having a deep understanding of our customers, the context they're in, and the value they derive from marketing interactions in order to create truly successful campaigns.It was so refreshing to hear her no-nonsense views on strategy, the industry, leadership, and what it takes to run a media agency during these challenging times. I thoroughly enjoyed this chat, and I am sure you will too.You can find Imogen here: linkedin.com/in/imogen-hewitt-bb27031Learn more about Spark Foundry here: https://www.sparkfoundryww.com Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you create a brand that could outlast you?On episode 27 of the B-side, I speak to Joe Carter, Co-Founder of The Ironclad Pan Company - the only cast iron cookware made in Aotearoa, New Zealand, with a Three Generation Guarantee.Before dedicating 100% of his efforts to Ironclad, Joe worked in a variety of roles at some of the worlds most creative publishers and ad agencies like Contagious and Colenso BBDO.He chats about his time at Colenso BBDO as Partnerships Director, when the agency won Creative Agency of the Decade, and an unfathomable number of awards for work like the mobile app Kupu, for New Zealand telecommunications firm Spark. Which helps people learn to speak Te Reo Māori, the official language of the indigenous people of New Zealand.And we jam on how to build meaningful brands and his mission to demonstrate that companies like his own can be both sustainable and profitable.We discuss the Ironclad Pan marketing and growth strategy, the focus he has on understanding his customers and adding value to their experience that goes far beyond the pan itself. And balancing the short and long term objectives of the company, which offers a 100-year guarantee on their pans. Joe is an incredibly focussed and considered marketer, dedicated to creating one of the most enduring, responsible brands on the planet.He's a super-smart, super nice guy, and I really enjoyed chatting to him, I know you will too.CheersYou can find Joe here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joecarternz/And purchase an Ironclad Pan here: https://www.ironcladpan.com Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

“We have two ears, two eyes, and one mouth, and we should use them in that ratio” is a quote attributed to Greek philosopher Epictetus.On episode 26 of the B-side I speak to a man who epitomises that saying, in Simon Lister, an internationally recognised photographer and highly awarded audio engineer based in Sydney, Australia.Simon is the co-founder and executive creative director of Squeak E. Clean studios, a music and sound company with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, Melbourne and Sydney. And is the global brand photographer and film director for UNICEF.We chat about his great passion for photography and how he's spent the last 13 years capturing breathtaking photographs and film of some of the most fascinating places on earth, like India, Morocco, Myanmar, PNG, and Thailand. Bangladesh, Mozambique, Tanzania, Laos, Mongolia, Mexico, Kyrgyzstan, and Ethiopia, to name a few. And doing it on his motorbike, so he can go off the beaten track to access areas, experiences and cultures not often seen by travellers.He discusses the work he's done for UNICEF as the global brand photographer and as the director of their international brand campaign launch commercial. Which features the voices of Liam Neeson, Shakira, and Queen Rania of Jordan.Simon talks about how this powerfully emotive work for UNICEF led to being featured in the Netflix and Canon documentary series ‘Tales by Light'. Where he shares the stories of child workers in Bangladesh and Bolivia, living in some of the worlds harshest environments.Then we switch gears to jam on sound design, commercial music and the importance of sonic branding. And how marketers are missing a trick if they're not thinking about audio as an equally important tool for building brands and long term awareness.Simon is an incredibly humble yet inspiring guy. Quietly shaping the future of commercial audio whilst being committed to creating awareness of the horrendous living conditions affecting the world's most underrepresented communities.By listening, looking deep into people's eyes and sharing their stories, he's helping to make a global impact and change their lives for the better.I thoroughly enjoyed this chat, and I know you will too. Cheers.You can find Simon Lister here:https://www.squeakeclean.com/See his photography here: http://www.simonlisterphotography.com/And watch the Netflix ‘Tales by Light' trailer here: https://youtu.be/Oc9Y59kzshg Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

What are the challenges faced by creative leaders in this volatile post-covid 19 world? And what really goes on in the C-suite of an ad agency? In Episode 25 of the B-side, I speak to Mike Spirkovski – affectionately known as 'Spirko' – Chief Creative Officer of Saatchi & Saatchi Australia. He sits on the Saatchi & Saatchi Worldwide Creative Board and the Worldwide Toyota Creative Leadership Team. Mike's career spans 20 years in the industry, where he has led some of the top Agencies in Australia like Clemenger BBDO, Droga5 and Leo Burnett, and founded his own creative company, Cassius Clay.He speaks frankly about his very humble beginnings growing up in Cabramatta in Western Sydney and working in factories as a teenager. But with an inquisitive mind, a hard work ethic, and a desire to make a difference, he went from making cardboard cereal boxes, to creating campaigns for some of the worlds biggest brands, whilst scaling the advertising industry's heights to become a CCO.Mike chats about the challenges he's faced leading a team remotely during covid-19, the value of human interactions and the importance of communication in the creative process.He shared insights into the quality and purpose of the work his agency has produced during lockdown. And the successes his clients have seen as a result of it domestically.And he provides a behind-the-scenes look into the life of a Chief Creative Officer and what it takes to steer the creative direction of one of the world's most famous ad agency brands in Australia.Spirko is an inspiring and incredibly charismatic guy and someone I have tremendous respect for. If you're looking to move into a creative leadership position, I recommend listening to this episode. It's a rare thing to hear such a frank and honest account of what it takes to lead a major creative agency. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did. Cheers.You can find Mike here: https://www.saatchi.com.au/mike-spirkovski/And connect with him on Linkedin here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-spirkovski-6087a113/?originalSubdomain=au Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can you become a more persuasive writer and public speaker, and what are the most powerful ways to convince others to champion your cause?In Episode 24 of the B-side, I speak to Mr Nyunngai Warren Mundine AO. An Australian Aboriginal leader, businessman, political strategist, media commentator, author, and advocate for empowering Aboriginal Australians in building businesses and sustainable economies.He is the author of the bestselling book 'In black+white: Race, Politics and Changing Australia' and an opinion writer for Australia's top newspapers and opinion magazines, and a highly sought-after public speaker and media identity. Warren speaks about growing up as one of eleven children in a poor Catholic family, held together by incredibly hardworking, loving, yet stoic parents. And his amazing journey, from his early life in country NSW being subjected to discrimination and segregation. Then moving to one of the most multicultural suburbs in Australia, Auburn in Sydney. Where he developed a fascination for foreign cultures, overcame his personal hardships, and went on to scale the heights of political power to become National President of the Australian Labor Party and advisor to five prime ministers, both Labor and Liberal. He shares his no-nonsense, plain-speaking approach to writing, public speaking and the importance of focussing on the human effects at the core of the policies he discusses.Warren is one of the most engaging personalities in the Australian political spectrum. And arguably one of the most controversial and influential Aboriginal leaders of our time.He is a truly inspiring and incredibly fascinating man, and I am so thrilled to have been able to have him on the show. It's a cracking episode. I hope you find it as inspiring and enjoyable as I did.CheersYou can buy 'In black+white: Race, Politics and Changing Australia' here.And find Nyunngai Warren Mundine on Linkedin or Twitter. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Has the advertising industry been so busy trying to save the world, that it has lost sight of its commercial purpose?I'm kicking the year off with what many believe is one of the major problems plaguing the advertising industry, a creative effectiveness crisis. And I had the great pleasure of discussing the issue with one of my favourite advertising thought leaders, Mr Steve Harrison.Steve Harrison is a copywriter, creative director and author regarded by Campaign Magazine as the greatest Direct Marketing Creatives of his generation. He was European Creative Director at OgilvyOne and Global Creative Director at Wunderman. He started his own agency, HTW, where he won more Cannes Lions in his discipline than any creative director in the world.He is the author of highly respected books like ‘Changing the world is the only fit work for a grown man'; ‘How to write better copy'; and ‘How to do better creative work'. And his latest book ‘Can't Sell, Won't Sell: Advertising, Politics and Culture Wars' has been described by the IPA as the most provocative advertising book we've seen in years.Steve and I tackle many of the topics covered in ‘Can't Sell Won't Sell', debate what's gone wrong with advertising,  the cultural and political impacts on it, and what we need to do to fix it. And he shares his refreshingly inspiring and straightforward processes, that simplify everything from defining the marketing problem, developing the proposition, writing a good brief, and answering it with a creative and 'relevant abruption'.This was one of the most enjoyable,  refreshing and somewhat confronting chats I've had on the podcast. If you want to hear diverse opinions from some of the world's most innovative thinkers, then this is it. But brace yourself, Steve pulls no punches.And I absolutely love it. And I know you will too. Cheers.You can connect with Steve here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-harrison-b660b912Buy 'Can't Sell Won't Sell' here: https://www.amazon.com.au/Cant-Sell-Wont-Advertising-politics/dp/0957151519And find out more about the version of 'How to do better creative work' produced for those with dyslexia at: https://leoreader.com/Read the IPA's 'Crisis in Creative Effectiveness' report here: https://ipa.co.uk/knowledge/publications-reports/the-crisis-in-creative-effectiveness Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it take to create a truly good idea?In episode 22 of the B-side, I speak to Alex Wadelton, a creative director and author from Melbourne, with over 20 years experience in the advertising industry.Alex has created award-winning advertising campaigns for clients such as the AFL, Cricket Australia, Wrigley's, The University of Melbourne, Gatorade, and Schweppes. And he's come up with some ideas, that have done a world of good too.Like the statue of indigenous AFL superstar, Nicky Winmar's iconic and defiant stance against racism. The Future Landfill campaign. Where he took on the might of Woolworths and their ‘Ooshies' collectibles, highlighting how a short-term sales promotion, featuring crappy little plastic toys, can cause long-term damage to the environment.And he's just launched the ‘Million-dollar teddy bear' for Epilepsy Action Australia to help support people of all ages with epilepsy.His first book ‘The Right-brain Workout', which he co-wrote with Russell Howcroft, was a bestseller and they've recently launched the follow up ‘The Right-brain workout 2'. Alex is a passionate, humble and super nice guy, doing some incredibly good work that we should all get behind, and be inspired by. I really enjoyed our chat, and I'm sure you will too.Learn more about Alex and his awesome initiatives, like the ‘Million Dollar Teddy Bear' below:https://milliondollarteddybear.com/https://www.stuffbyalexwadelton.com/nickywinmarstatuehttps://www.stuffbyalexwadelton.com/the-melbourne-shuffle-marathonhttps://www.stuffbyalexwadelton.com/futurelandfill Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How does a native from Philly become one of Tokyo's hottest producers?In episode 21 of The B-side, I chat with Peter Grasse, an internationally recognised, multi-award-winning producer, who has helped shape the reputation of Asia-Pacific's most dynamic production companies.Peter joined Curious Film Auckland as General Manager in 2004 and soon after launched new production offices in Sydney and Singapore. He moved to Japan in 2016 and launched Dictionary Films Tokyo, where he produced work which would go on to win top advertising honours worldwide.He continues to cultivate the Asia-Pacific region's most inspiring new talent as Mr+Positive.Peter talks about his love of anthropology how an Ainu tree sap ceremony in Hokkaido led to a realisation that at 25 he should dedicate his energy to more exciting pursuits.We jam on some of the differences between the Japanese ad industry and that of the west. He shares his views on their attitudes towards creativity and ideas, and how non-Japanese can make it in the local creative industries. And we dig into why Japanese ads are known for being so batshit crazy.We discuss the role of tech, award shows, the rise of branded content. And we lament on the current state of advertising creativity and the rarity of brutally simple, smart, and well-crafted ideas.Peter is a super funny and incredibly interesting dude to chat to. I loved this chat, it's a wild one, and you're going to love it. Cheers.You can find Peter and learn more about Mr+Positive here: https://www.mrpositive.work Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when you combine a culture of creativity, with a love of the arts and a passion for technology?In Episode 20 of the B-side, I speak to Crystal Rata, a Senior Project Manager and Video Producer With over 16 years of experience working in media, digital and video production.  Across the B2B, B2C, retail, music, broadcasting, law, finance and the advertising sectors.Crystal and I talk about how she was raised on a farm in a small town called Taranaki in the North Island of New Zealand, born into a family of musicians and academics, and homeschooled by her mother who encouraged creative exploration.We talk about how these foundations formed a passion for art and science. And led to her completing a BA in Psychology and Screen Arts from Waikato University in New Zealand, and a determination to travel the world to apply her thinking.She shares how fate would see her land her dream job at Juice TV in NZ. Which led to a move over to Sydney, where she's called home for last 14 years, working for iconic brands like MTV, Billabong, and Westpac, and for agencies like 72and Sunny, BBDO, The Monkeys, VML and others.We talk about the benefits of having an eclectic skill set and the ability to adapt to a broad range of industries, technologies and specialisations. And how this has allowed her  to pursue a wider range of roles and opportunities that would be much harder to land otherwise.And we jam on everything from social media, marketing, working from home, agency life, politics and everything in between.Crystal is a soulful, genuine and incredibly talented creative all-rounder. It was an awesome chat, and I thoroughly enjoyed it, I know you will too. Cheers.You can reach out to Crystal Rata here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crystalrata   Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How does an ecommerce based, social business create a global movement of mindful consumers, provide sanitation facilities to impoverished communities, and do a crapload of good for the environment? All while giving away 50% of their profits.In episode 19 of The B-side, I speak to Vanessa Morrish, Head of Creative and Brand at ‘Who Gives A Crap' an Australian based toilet paper company that makes toilet paper rolls, that feature D&AD award winning designs made from forest friendly materials; either 100% recycled paper or bamboo. They donate fifty percent of all their profits towards building toilets and sanitation facilities for people in developing countries. Having just announced their most recent donation of $5.85 million.Vanessa and I talk about her experience in the advertising industry where she worked for some of the big agency networks on some of the worlds biggest brands. How her passion for the environment inspired her to start a side project called ‘Be An Unfucker' – a platform to encourage people to stop fucking up the planet by being more mindful consumers. And how this passion and her need for greater purpose led to a role where she could apply her creativity towards something she actually gave a shit about.We lift the lid on the ‘Who Gives a Crap' brand, the importance of their fun and non-preachy tone of voice, along with how she ensures everyone within the organisation helps shape the direction of the brand creatively. And we talk about some of the professional challenges she's faced due to COVID-19, like working remotely while leading an in-house team of creatives based in LA. Along with the struggles of maintaining a work-life balance, now the lines have blurred between home and the workspace.Vanessa is an incredibly humble, insightful, and super cool cat. Quietly fighting to improve the health of communities in need, and the environment, with a creative irreverence that I absolutely love. It was such a refreshing, honest and inspiring chat, I know you're going to love it.Cheers.Learn more about 'Who Gives a Crap' here: https://au.whogivesacrap.orgAnd check out Vanessa Morrish's side project 'Be and Unfucker' here: http://beanunfucker.com  Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can indigenous thinking save the world?In episode 18 of The B-side I speak to Tyson Yunkaporta. An academic, art critic, researcher, and author who belongs to the Apalech Clan in far north Queensland.Tyson and I discuss his new book 'Sand Talk'. A truly, remarkable, mind-bending, two-way, learning experience, that provides a template for living, and how patterns and symbolism can help us make sense of the world.It is a fun and fascinating read, filled with big, challenging ideas, covering just about everything from echidnas to evolution, the economy to evolution, Schrodinger's cat, to spirituality all through the lens of indigenous thinking.We chat about what happens when our accepted societal, economic, and global systems are viewed from this perspective, and how we could shape our future for the better by applying its wisdom. Wisdom that acknowledges the complexity of our world; where our modern societies have diverged from these complex patterns of creation seen in nature.Tyson Yunkaporta is perhaps one of Australia's most interesting and exciting thinkers. He truly sees things from a unique, universal, big picture perspective, and manages to unpack it all, in a way that is fun, and accessible to all of us, wherever we're from.We cover lots of ground, from politics, to coronavirus. So it gets pretty deep, raw and a little provocative. But I know you'll love it. So settle in, ready your mind, and enjoy.Cheers.Tyson Yunkaporta can be found here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyson-yunkaporta-04a9b969/Learn more about 'Sand Talk' here: https://www.textpublishing.com.au/books/sand-talk Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can children's books inspire and empower a future generation of leaders?In episode 17 of The B-side, I speak to Beck Feiner, an illustrator, designer and author from Redfern, in Sydney, Australia.Beck and I talk about what goes into creating a successful children's book. How she got started, her unique illustrative style, and how she landed her first publishing deal. She shares her thoughts on the industry and how through her work, she aims to shine a light on social issues, tap into the mood of our time, and promote diversity, in a fun and accessible way.We discuss how she found a new passion for illustration after leaving the ad industry to raise her two kids. And we chat about her first book, 'Aussie Legends Alphabet,' which she came up with when teaching her kids the alphabet, and realising the market lacked the fun and engaging books her kids were looking for.Beck has since published three more books with her husband, Robin Feiner. Their second book, 'If I was Prime minister,' focuses on what kids might do if they were given the keys to the Lodge. Their latest book 'The Polar Bear in Sydney Harbour' is about climate change and the power kids have to change the world for the better. I had such an enjoyable time talking to Beck, she is an incredibly thoughtful, fun and amazingly talented Aussie legend in her own right. It's a great chat, and I know you're going to love it. Cheers.You can find Beck Feiner here:http://beckfeinercreations.comhttps://beckfeiner.myportfolio.comAnd follow her on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/beckfeiner_illustrations/ Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we combine two seemingly different passions into one successful career? In episode 16 of the B-side, I speak to award-winning chef, and co-host of ‘My Kitchen Rules', Manu Feildel.Manu is one of the most popular personalities on Australian television, besides his work on MKR, he's appeared on Boys Weekend, Ready Steady Cook, Dancing with the stars (which he won) and is a judge on Australia's Got Talent. He is joining forces with good mates, Matt Preston and Gary Mehigan in a new cooking show for Channel 7 – called 'Plate of Origin'.Not one to shy away from being busy, he's a couple of other projects on the boil too, like a new studio space called 'La Botanique' in Botany Sydney, and has launched a classic French sauce range ‘The Sauce by Manu'.We chat about his humble beginnings, being raised by a single mum, quitting school at 15, and working in his father's restaurant. And how his work ethic was forged in fire through a gruelling apprenticeship under a tyrant of a boss.He shares how through his resilience and a burning desire to make a better life for himself and his family, he became a 3 hatted chef. And how fate would see his life-long love of entertainment and cooking converge to create a career he once only dreamed of.We jam on some of the trends developing in the entertainment industry, and the foodservice sector. He shares his views on the need for simplicity, authenticity and education in our culinary culture. And we go behind-the-scenes of MKR, and we have a frank and open discussion on the reality of being a celebrity in Australia.Manu Feildel is a real down-to-earth, genuine, and super nice dude. I thoroughly enjoyed our chat, and I'm certain you will too. Cheers.You can find Manu here: manufeildel.com.auLearn more about The Sauce by Manu here: https://www.bymanu.coAnd check out his new studio space 'La Botanique' here: https://labotanique.com.au  Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we create advertising that transcends the world of commerce into culture?In episode 15 of The B-side, I speak to Adam Lock, Group Creative Director at VaynerMedia from his home in New York. Originally from Sydney Australia, Adam has over 15+ years of experience as an integrated creative. And a career that's seen him work across three continents and on some of the most creative brands in the world including Budweiser, Vodafone and Burger King. With many of his campaigns being recognized at most of the major award shows. Including Cannes, Clio, D&AD, OneShow and The Effies.We discuss how, after finishing a business degree and starting out as a suit, he became an art director through his creative focus and passion for ideas. He talks about the move to New York, how his work on Burger King, led to his mission of working on Budweiser. And how he landed his gig at VaynerMedia. Where he's spent the last 4 years working with internet guru and social media marketing megastar, Gary Vaynerchuk's (AKA GaryVee). Leading the development of campaigns for Anheuser-Busch, GE and PepsiCo businesses, overseeing a department of over 30+ creatives.Adam shares what it's like working at VaynerMedia, and how their processes and ways of working differ to traditional advertising agencies. He explains The Vayner Volume Model, which involves sending out smaller content ideas via social media channels, to test how well they engage various audiences. Which then inspire and inform the creative ideas and content for more extensive campaigns. And how this real-time, customer-centred approach, takes much of the subjectivity out of the equation, allowing them to create work that resonates and is hyper-targeted to their audience.Adam's passion for creativity that connects, and for creating out-of-the-box, not-so-advertising-like solutions to marketing problems is inspiring. He's a rare talent, a super switched on dude, and a really nice guy too. I really enjoyed our chat, and I'm sure you will too.CheersYou can connect with Adam Lock here: LinkedInAnd check out some of his work we discussed on the episode here:BUDWEISER: Wade's Last SwapBUDWEISER: Wind Powered RadioBURGER KING: Grilled Dogs Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How well do you know yourself? It is said we are but a collection of memories, interactions and an ego. But does the way we are experienced by others align with our view of ourselves?In episode 14 of the B-side, I discuss this topic with Joe Hart. An organisational psychologist with a passion for understanding what makes us tick, our motivations, and the behaviours that lead us to success in life and our careers.Joe has a Bachelor of Psychology with Honours, and a Master degree in Organisational Psychology from UNSW. He has worked for Gallup, Chandler Macleod, and Samsung as an executive coach, senior consultant and employee engagement expert. He now runs his own consultancy, True Perspective. Where he helps people from a wide range of industries, find their core strengths and be more effective as leaders.We talk about the first step of personal development being a choice between living in blissful ignorance or confronting the truth. Akin to taking the red or blue pill in the Matrix, Joe believes that knowing the truth is essential if we are to grow and reach our true potential. He discusses why it's essential to understand how others experience us, in order to identify the things that are misaligned with reality, our sense of self or purpose. And the things we can do to create the realignment needed to grow.He is a fascinating guy with an eclectic background, growing up in Byron Bay and Lismore with his dad, who was a professional clown and entertainer. Jo is also a highly experienced juggler, an expert conversationalist, a Kyokushin karate enthusiast, and a father of four awesome kids to his Japanese Australian wife.We had a profound and insightful conversation, and I found it really helpful, given the craziness that's going on in the world right now. So, settle in, it's a great episode, and I really enjoyed the chat, I'm sure you will too.CheersYou can find Joe Hart here: https://joehart.com.au  And connect with him on Linkedin here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-hart-9475b934/ Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

What is the perfect recipe for launching a successful new startup?In episode 13 of The B-side, I speak to Michael Fox, CEO and Co-founder of Fable Food Co. An exciting new Australian company that has entered the fast-growing plant-based meat alternatives market, with the likes of Impossible Foods, makers of the 'Impossible Burger' and Beyond Meat.Michael talks about how he started Fable Food with co-founders, fine-dining Chef and mycologist Jim Fuller, and organic mushroom farmer Chris McLoghlin. And how the product 'Fable' is made with shiitake mushrooms as the core ingredient, to mimic the texture and flavour of favourites like pulled pork and slow-cooked beef brisket. We also chat about their marketing strategy, and how he launched the product with celebrity chef Heston Blumenthal.He shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey, the rise and fall of his previous business, Shoes of Prey, that he co-founded with ex-partner Jodie Fox, and the learnings he's made along the way. The ethical and personal reasons that led him to adopt a vegetarian diet and a healthier lifestyle. And we discuss his mission of helping end large-scale animal agriculture by encouraging people to reduce or change the role meat plays in their diets and dining culture.Michael is an inspirational, highflying entrepreneur, with his feet firmly planted on the ground. A salt of the earth type of dude, with big ambitions to improve the way we eat and live our lives. I really enjoyed our chat, and I know you will too.Fable is available at Woolworths from June 15 2020.Learn more about Fable here: https://fablefood.coYou can find Michael Fox here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelfox1/ Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Would you recognise an actor who has starred in the Avengers films, Thor, and Captain America. Three Bond movies, two Star Wars films, Harry Potter, Game of Thrones, and Batman?In episode 12 of the B-side, I speak to the Bobby Holland Hanton, one of Hollywood's most in-demand stuntmen, who you've seen perform in the biggest action films of the last decade, but probably have never heard of.Bobby is a British born, former champion gymnast-turned-stunt performer. Who has featured alongside esteemed actors such as Tom Cruise, Harrison Ford, Robert Downey Jr, Morgan Freeman, Samuel L Jackson, Angelina Jolie, Charlize Theron, Jonny Depp, and Leonardo di Caprio among others. And has worked for directing greats like JJ Abrams, Ron Howard, Chris Nolan, Steven Spielberg, Ridley Scott and Taika Waititi.He has been the stunt double for many of Hollywood's leading stars including Daniel Craig, Ryan Reynolds, Chris Pine, and Christian Bale, where he risks life and limb doing the breathtaking stunts that they wouldn't dream of doing themselves.We chat about stunt performing, how he got into the industry, and the processes behind his craft. And we go behind-the-scenes on the new action-packed Netflix smash 'Extraction', where Bobby doubles for long-time collaborator, and close friend, Chris Hemsworth.He discusses the lighter side of filmmaking and his passion for comedy, along with his other, less death-defying creative pursuits. Then we switch gears, and go deep on everything from mental health, recovering from major back surgery and how he is helping to raise awareness and fight cancer, through his work with battlecancer.com Bobby is an amazingly talented, creative and versatile performer, and is a lovely, super humble guy too. I hope you enjoy the chat as much as I did. CheersYou can find Bobby Holland Hanton here:https://www.bobbyhollandhanton.comhttps://www.imdb.com/name/nm3479192/https://www.instagram.com/bobbydazzler84/Support the effort to kick cancer's butt here:https://www.battlecancer.comAnd watch Netflix 'Extraction' and check out the 12 minute one-taker we discuss, it's bloody mind-blowing: https://www.netflix.com/au/title/80230399 Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do shifts in cultural and societal behaviours set the course of our institutions, businesses and Government?In episode 11 of The B-side, I speak to Nicky Bryson, Director of Brand & Consumer Insight at PWC and Founder of The Trenches.Nicky is a brand, marketing and cultural strategist with a foundation in business, psychology and research. Her experience spans research agencies, creative agencies and consultancies, where she's guided the strategic direction of a portfolio of iconic clients including Woolworths, Amazon, Commonwealth Bank, Macquarie Uni, Myer, GIO, Caltex, and Vodafone.We discuss the work she does at PWC, advising both Government and institutional clients on the social tone of Australia, as well as the macro and micro trends that are influencing sentiment and behaviour in a pre-and-post COVID-19 world.She speaks from her own experience, about some of the struggles young people contend with while trying to carve out careers in the highly competitive creative and marketing industries. And why she created The Trenches, a new cross-industry, free and inclusive mentoring initiative for young people working across Creative, Media, Consulting, Marketing, Publishing and Technology.Nicky is a super cool, super smart, and an incredibly talented visionary for the industry. We had a fascinating chat, and I highly enjoyed it. I'm certain you will too.You can find Nicky Bryson here:https://au.linkedin.com/in/nicky-bryson-b1032938And learn more about The Trenches here:https://www.thetrenches.com.au© Copyright The B-side with James Barrow 2020. All rights reserved. Terms of Service. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we use movement and mindfulness to help improve our potential as professionals, and in the way we live our lives broadly?In Episode 10 of the B-side, I speak to Tony Clement, Data Strategy Consultant, and Founder of The Dojo. A Human Performance Consultancy which aims to help people achieve their professional bests, through personal growth.Tony has over 15 years of digital marketing, strategy and analytics experience. Having held senior positions in creative agencies such as Big Spaceship in New York, Wunderman in London and Leo Burnett in Sydney; working with brands like Google, Youtube, Samsung, Ford and the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. Tony now runs his own Data Strategy consulting practice, Roll Deep, with clients in New York, Sydney, Melbourne and London.  He is a certified Google Analytics nerd, a statistician by trade, and has earned 4 Advertising Effectiveness Awards. He was also the ‘data creative' that won an Account Planning Group ‘Best Use of Data' award for one of Australia's largest banks.We discuss how Tony has made it his mission to help organizations and professionals diagnose the data stories that are of the highest value to them now and in the future. Along with how he applies his experience as a Yoga Instructor, BJJ practitioner and team leader to train the deep skills of people to optimize their mind, body and soul towards higher levels of performance, in life and work.Tony is one of the nicest, smartest, and probably fittest guys I've ever met in the industry, and I really enjoyed being able to speak to him again. You're going to love this episode.You can find tony here:The Dojo thedojo.teamLinkedin linkedin.com/in/tonyc2Roll Deep (His Data Strategy Consultancy) rolldeep.net/Instagram instagram.com/thedojofbt/© Copyright The B-side with James Barrow 2020. All rights reserved. Terms of Service. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we become better at thinking strategically and creating meaning from the mess that life throws at us?In episode 9 of the B-side I speak to Sydney born, New York based, hip-hop journalist-turned-strategist Mr Mark Pollard, Strategy CEO of Mighty Jungle. Strategy CEO is a made-up title, but according to Mark, people don't listen to him unless he uses the word “strategy” at all times.The title isn't too far off really. Mark lives and breathes strategy, he writes, gives talks and does strategy consulting. And holds strategy training workshops for the likes of The Economist, Twitter, Facebook, Euronews, Mozilla, the Wall Street Journal, Poo-Pourri, and bunch of agencies around the world.In a previous life, he worked agency side, leading teams at McCann, Leo Burnett, and Big Spaceship. Judged the Jay Chiat Awards and the Webbys, and sat on the Australian Account Planning Group (APG) committee. He also founded Australia's first full-colour hip hop magazine, Stealth, in 1998.He is the founder and host of the Sweathead podcast which has almost 400,000 listens. Runs the Sweathead Facebook group with nearly 9,000 strategists from around the world. And he is about to publish his first book, “Strategy Is Your Words”.Mark and I dig deep into the power of words and how they're used to give structure and purpose to the way we think, live and work. We breakdown the role of a strategist and the principles of strategy itself, and we jam on a whole lot of other topics too.Mark is a super cool cat, a razor-sharp dude, and a good friend. I really enjoyed talking to him and spending a little time inside his amazing head, as I'm sure you will too.You can find mark here: https://www.markpollard.netAnd find out more about Sweathead here: http://sweathead.co© Copyright The B-side with James Barrow 2020. All rights reserved. Terms of Service. Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

When is the right time to turn your passion into a profession?In episode 8 of the B-side with James Barrow, in the house sessions, I speak to World Champion Muay Thai fighter, and award-winning graphic designer, Ognjen Topic from his home in Brooklyn New York.Ognjen graduated from William Paterson University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree. He worked as a graphic designer from 2005 while fighting part-time, before quitting in 2013 to pursue his first passion, the brutally effective martial art of Muay Thai – and build a career as a full-time professional fighter.Known throughout the world as one of the best Muay Thai practitioners ever to come out of the United States, he holds several world titles and is one of a very small, elite group of foreign fighters to compete at the sport's highest levels.We discuss his fight career, his approach to both fighting and design, and the similarities between them, along with how he's maintaining his training regime in lockdown.Ognjen is incredibly dedicated, disciplined, and attacks everything he does with 100% commitment; and doesn't let life's setbacks phase him too much either.I really enjoyed our chat. He's a fantastic fighter, an excellent designer, and a really nice guy too.To follow Ognjen's fight career visit topicfight.com and check out his awesome creative work at topiccreative.com© Copyright The B-side with James Barrow 2020. All rights reserved. Terms of Service Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

 How can strategic design help solve today's business challenges?In episode 7 of the B-side with James Barrow, in the house sessions, I speak to Marque Kabbaz, Director of Strategic Design at Isobar, in Sydney.Marque has nearly two decades of experience as a strategy and business design lead, building both brands and businesses for some of Australia's largest organisations. He's worked across all sectors, from Financial Services to FMCG, CPG, Retail, Mining, Pharma, Automotive, Energy, and Government.Marque discusses how he effectively identifies the underlying cause of any organisational challenge. And applies human psychology and creative principles to generate lasting and effective solutions that can be operationalised throughout the entire business.He's insatiably curious, and a bit of a tech geek, with a satirical sense of humour. He also loves rock-climbing and a good single malt whiskey. And with a degree in Behavioural Psychology, he knows a thing or two about people.It was a pleasure to chat to Marque, he's a deep thinker and a lovely guy to boot.I hope you enjoy the episode as much as I did in making it.Isobar AustraliaMiyamoto Musashi: The Book of Five RingsMarque Kabbaz Linkedin© Copyright The B-side with James Barrow 2020. All rights reserved. Terms of Service   Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can emotional resilience, community and compassion help us in times of uncertainty?In episode 6 of the B-side with James Barrow,  I speak to Rebecca Yik, founder and CEO of Hatch, and head of brand experience for Lucy from her home in Bali, Indonesia.Rebecca has over 20 years in creative and digital strategy across five countries - Australia, Canada, Singapore, Thailand and Bali. She led Experience Design for SingTel, was the Head of Strategy for Tigerspike for South East Asia and led a 100+ digital team for Optus in Australia.She's spent the last ten years working within innovation teams specialising in fintech disruption. Now in Bali, Rebecca runs her own company, Hatch, dedicated to founding and growing purpose-driven sustainable businesses and leads Brand Experience for Lucy, a financial technology company that helps women entrepreneurs actualise their business ideas.Rebecca shares how she's coping with the COVID-19 lockdowns in Bali while her partner is stuck in Peru. And how she's holding down a family, while running a business and maintaining a good work-life balance too.We talk about a whole host of topics, covering her professional background, current business ventures, and some of the personal experiences that have shaped who she is today.Bek is an incredibly inspiring, compassionate, yet take-no-prisoners type of person. We had a candid, rich and insightful conversation. It gets a little full-on, so buckle up. I hope you find it as motivating and enjoyable as I did.Enjoy.https://www.welucy.com/https://www.hatchbali.com/© Copyright The B-side with James Barrow 2020. All rights reserved. Terms of Service   Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How can we unlock our creative potential in a COVID-19 world of work from home lockdowns? Starting this week on the B-side with James Barrow podcast, I'll be launching the ‘In the house sessions' where I speak to guests remotely from home, and discuss all things I would typically, along with how they're responding to the changes brought about by these crazy, unprecedented times.In this episode though, I'll be going solo, sharing my perspective on the recent events and drawing upon information supplied by the UN, who have put out a Global brief to creatives, to develop ideas that promote their public health messages. And because I suffered a touch of social isolation, lockdown-induced cabin fever, I threw in an unashamedly rubbish COVID-19 inspired D'angelo cover, for your listening pleasure.I discuss the UN's creative brief in detail and how we can maintain our health, sanity and stay creative in isolation. And I have a massive rant about a few things that are grinding my gears too if you skip through these sections I won't hold it against you.It's somewhat of a stream of consciousness so forgive me for jumping around a bit. Hopefully, you'll find it useful in some small way.UN Global call out to creativeshttps://www.talenthouse.com/i/united-nations-global-call-out-to-creatives-help-stop-the-spread-of-covid-19Working from home: https://lighthouse.mq.edu.au/article/march/working-from-home-a-managers-perspectivehttps://www.ogilvy.com/uploads/Ogilvy%20on%20Managed%20Remote%20Working.pdfWHO Mythbusters: https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/advice-for-public/myth-bustersCovid-19 Response fund: www.COVID19ResponseFund.orgFor more information on The B-side with James Barrow podcast visit: jamesbside.com To get in touch or for any tips and suggestions, please email: hello@jamesbside.com And follow me on Instagram at @bsidepodcast© Copyright The B-side with James Barrow 2020. All rights reserved. Terms of Service   Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

What drives your creativity? In episode 4 of the B-side with James Barrow podcast James speaks to graphic designer, art director and DIY electric car hobbyist, Oliver Kendal, who works at Macquarie University's Group Marketing department, in Sydney Australia.Oliver's career started 18 years ago in England, before venturing to the southern hemisphere, where he has lived in Johannesburg, South Africa and Sydney, Australia. He has worked in advertising agencies, design firms and on the client-side. Applying his creative skills to a wide range of projects across an eclectic range of clients, from gold refineries and big global car brands to small businesses and tiny start-ups, and more recently, the education sector.What inspires his creativity is the thought of making positive differences for society and the planet, big or small. Being particularly passionate about promoting sustainable solutions and alternatives in design and marketing projects, he is convinced that technology will help us do it.His nostalgic fondness for Land Rovers and high esteem for the change being created by Tesla is the driving force behind his current side project, restoring and converting his beloved 1970 Land Rover Series 2a, named Nelson, into a fully electric vehicle. You can connect with Oliver at: behance.net/oliverkendal1 linkedin.com/in/oliver-kendal-43415625/ oliverkendal.com For more information on The B-side with James Barrow podcast visit: jamesbside.com To get in touch or for any tips and suggestions, please email: hello@jamesbside.com And follow me on Instagram at @bsidepodcast© Copyright The B-side with James Barrow 2020. All rights reserved. Terms of Service   Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Can chaos benefit creativity in a world of digital perfection? In episode 3 of the B-side with James Barrow podcast James speaks to Photographer, Director and Documentary Producer, Christopher Ireland, member of The Pool Collective, an integrated production company and pool of creative resources.Christopher Ireland is an observer. His sensitivity and natural intuition enable him to capture life's real characters and moments brilliantly. Chris' highly considered and measured approach has earned him international creative accolades, with work recognised at Cannes Lions, D&AD, AdFest, The One Show, Clio and Spikes.Chris talks about some of his passion projects, including his portrait series on the residents of Greenway, a government housing estate in the affluent Sydney suburb of Kirribilli. He shares his approach to work and how he embeds himself in the lives of real people, discovering unique human narratives that he aims to portray with authenticity and respect. The pair discuss Chris' fascination with the natural shades of life, embracing all its imperfections, and how we overcome adversity by confronting our insecurities and embracing the unknowns life throws at us. Chris believes that the combination of these factors makes for more profound, creative expressions that connect with people on a deeper, fundamental human level. You can connect with Chris at: christopherireland.net Instagram: @Ireland_future Links to work and photographers mentioned in the episode: Lyndal Irons: http://lyndalirons.com.au/ The Pool Collective www.thepoolcollective.com Sean Izzard Co founder The Pool Collective https://www.seanizzard.com/ Simon Harsent Co founder The Pool Collective https://www.simonharsent.com/ For more information on The B-side with James Barrow podcast visit: jamesbside.com To get in touch or for any tips and suggestions, please email: hello@jamesbside.com And follow me on Instagram at @bsidepodcast© Copyright The B-side with James Barrow 2020. All rights reserved. Terms of Service   Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

How do you help start a startup? In episode two of the B-side with James Barrow podcast James speaks to global branding director and startup advisor Glen Barry, Partner at Moonsure Ventures, an innovation consultancy that helps leading Startups create, develop and take their ideas to market. Glen Barry's career spans 25 years, where he worked with some of the world's leading design firms like Interbrand London, Siegel+Gale New York, Future Brand and Landor. A born branding phenom, he created his first brand identity at age nine in Melbourne, a logo for his primary school that they still use to this day.. He has since branded countries, cities, the Sydney Olympics, corporates, retailers, events, not-for-profits and a range of new startups.The pair discuss Glen's approach to design, his focus on innovation and how he helps brands realise their purpose. Glen also shares the nuts and bolts of his pivot towards entrepreneurialism, how he became the co-founder of Willy Smith's Organic Apple Cider and how you can get involved in the startup scene, along with some of the things to look out for.Happy listening. Cheers.Connect with Glen online at: glenbarry.com moonsure.com linkedin.com/in/glenjbarry For more information on The B-side with James Barrow podcast visit: jamesbside.com To get in touch or for any tips and suggestions, please email: hello@jamesbside.com And follow me on Instagram at @bsidepodcast© Copyright The B-side with James Barrow 2020. All rights reserved. Terms of Service   Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.

Creativity is a universal language that crosses the borders of race, religion, social status, age, gender and culture.To be able to imagine something and make it real is one of the things that makes us human. But against the background noise of our busy lives, how can we become more creative? James Barrow is on a mission to help people unlock their creative potential and apply it to their lives, their careers and their businesses.  An award-winning creative and marketing director with over 20 years' experience in the advertising and marketing industry, he is focused on brand strategy, business transformation and big, purpose driven marketing ideas. In this series of podcasts, James goes behind-the-scenes with people who imagine things for a living. Those making waves, disrupting the norm and shaking things up. Leaders in their field, working in marketing, advertising, design, technology, film, arts and entertainment. Listen to what motivates and inspires them, and discover the methods to their madness; their processes, strategies, and philosophies. Get tips and advice on how to come up with big ideas – and then make them happen. Be inspired by their experience. Gain new insights into the biggest global trends in marketing, culture and innovation. Hear what it takes to succeed in the business of creativity.  For more information on The B-side with James Barrow podcast visit: jamesbside.com To get in touch or for any tips and suggestions, please email: hello@jamesbside.com And follow me on Instagram at @bsidepodcast© Copyright The B-side with James Barrow 2020. All rights reserved. Terms of Service   Our GDPR privacy policy was updated on August 8, 2022. Visit acast.com/privacy for more information.