TOP CMO

In this episode, Tom and Ben unpack the branding implications behind this week's biggest business headlines. They start with Apple's latest developer conference and whether the company is still seen as an innovation leader or has shifted into incrementalism. They also discuss a quirky new hold-music feature that Tom is excited about, and how Apple's brand promise of “things just work” creates high stakes when launching new products.They then shift to the protests in LA, examining how Trump's political maneuvers reframe the Democratic brand—and whether brands should speak up or stay silent in politically charged moments. The conversation moves into the Musk–Trump fallout, including stock crashes, retaliation threats, and what it means for Tesla's brand and Elon's decision-making.Next, they dig into Mondelez's lawsuit against Aldi for Oreo copycats, highlighting how brand confusion can spark legal battles. From there, they analyze Warner Bros. Discovery's decision to spin off streaming and cable units, the larger trend of strategic brand separation, and what it means for the media landscape.The episode closes with insights on global layoffs, the rise of the “AI economy,” how brands should handle internal messaging during cutbacks, and Alibaba's new AI-driven virtual try-on feature—what it signals for fashion, e-commerce, and marketing creativity.

Welcome to the new era of BRANDED. In this refreshed format, Ben Kaplan and Tom Cain team up weekly to break down the biggest stories in branding, marketing, tech, and business—with sharp takes, bold questions, and zero fluff.In this episode:Hailey Bieber sells her skincare brand for $1B—how attention became the most valuable currencyMeta signs a nuclear deal to power AI—literallyApple tries to reinvent itself with a major UI overhaul—but is it still innovative?Tesla's global sales slump—what's really going wrongSalesforce targets data dominance with a new acquisitionPlus: How generative AI is changing the job market and what it means for creators, marketers, and brands

In this episode of Branded, Ben Kaplan sits down with Bridget Evans, the Global Head of Business Marketing at Spotify, to unpack the platform's growing role as a multimedia advertising powerhouse. Bridget breaks down Spotify's evolution from a primarily audio-based brand into a dynamic player in video advertising and podcast monetization.They explore:Spotify's strategic pivot to include more video-first experiences, including video podcasts, music videos, and lyric videos.The award-winning “Spreadbeats” B2B campaign that turned Excel spreadsheets into media channels to reach media buyers in unexpected ways.How Spotify is supporting mid-tier and micro-podcasters through the Spotify Partner Program and new monetization tools.The balance between owned/licensed content and supporting a broader creator economy.Why podcasting fosters deep engagement and trust, making it a unique advertising channel with powerful reach.The future of AI in audio, from content discovery to personalized playlists and DJ experiences.Bridget's thoughts on data-driven marketing, brand storytelling, and why creative opportunities on Spotify are more expansive than ever.Plus, Bridget shares the best career advice she ever got from Gary Vaynerchuk: “Don't focus on being the first—focus on being the best or the most creative.”

In this episode, we sit down with Meghann McNally, Chief Marketing Officer at Wrench Group, to explore how she's transforming the home services industry through predictive analytics, local brand empowerment, and a bold growth mindset. From leading digital disruption in traditionally offline sectors to integrating marketing with data science, Meghann shares her approach to building trust, scaling rapidly, and avoiding “one-size-fits-all” marketing traps.Whether you're scaling a brand or trying to outpace competitors, this episode is packed with actionable insights on how to lead with both heart and hard numbers.

Rand Fishkin—founder of Moz, cofounder of SparkToro, and now leading indie game studio Snackbar—joins us to talk about what it really takes to build a brand people care about. From disrupting the SEO world to rethinking audience research, Rand shares how transparency, community, and a bit of rebellion have shaped every step of his journey. We dig into why most marketers get audience targeting wrong, how SparkToro is fixing it, and what launching a video game has in common with startup life. Plus, Rand opens up about burnout, honesty in branding, and why Lost and Founder struck a nerve with so many entrepreneurs.If you're in marketing, startups, or just like hearing from someone who tells it like it is—this one's for you.

In this episode of Branded, Ben Kaplan speaks with Jennie Platt, the Chief Marketing Officer of TD Bank US. With a career spanning American Express, Citi, and now TD, Jennie shares her unique perspective on how large financial institutions can remain genuinely connected with their customers.She dives into TD's Unexpectedly Human brand promise, explaining how it's more than just a tagline, it's a company-wide commitment to understanding and anticipating customer needs. Jennie discusses the power of data-driven marketing, why personalization matters more than ever, and how TD is blending digital innovation with old-school human touch to redefine banking experiences.From dog-friendly ATMs to real-time data insights, Jennie reveals the strategies behind TD's growth and how they're staying ahead in a rapidly evolving financial landscape. Whether you're in marketing, finance, or just curious about how big brands build real connections, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

How do you scale a beloved burger brand without losing the heart that made it special?In this episode of Branded, host Ben Kaplan speaks with Chris Dull, President and CEO of Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers. Chris opens up about the balancing act of fast growth and genuine hospitality—sharing how Freddy's has expanded into 37 states, reimagined its digital experience, and stayed laser-focused on franchisee success.From caramelized steakburgers to post-pandemic innovation, this conversation dives into the power of brand consistency, listening to your guests, and creating “one-of-a-kind moments” in everyday life.If you're in branding, franchising, or just trying to grow something the right way—don't miss this one.

How does a global giant like IKEA stay affordable, sustainable, and deeply personal—all at once? In this episode of Branded, host Ben Kaplan sits down with Belen Frau, a senior global leader at IKEA who's helped shape the brand from the inside out. With over 20 years at the company, Belen shares how IKEA's democratic design philosophy drives everything from flat-packs to climate impact. From launching secondhand platforms to redefining what it means to be “for the many,” this is a masterclass in brand purpose, strategy, and resilience.

What does it take to make a 150-year-old bank feel like a startup?In this episode of Branded, host Ben Kaplan talks with Shruti Patel, Executive Vice President and Chief Product Officer for Business Banking at US Bank, about reinventing customer experience in one of the most regulated industries on the planet.From AI-powered tools to embedded financial products, Shruti shares how US Bank is transforming the way it serves small businesses—while still staying grounded in trust, compliance, and community. It's a conversation about balancing innovation with responsibility, and how big banks can stay nimble in a FinTech-first world.

What do you ask a man who's helped shape the future of both education and technology?In this episode of Branded, host Ben Kaplan sits down with John Hennessy—former President of Stanford University and current Chairman of Alphabet (yes, the Google one)—for a rare conversation about leadership, innovation, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.From founding tech companies to guiding the next generation of Silicon Valley leaders, Hennessy shares what separates good ideas from great ones, why humility beats hype, and how to stay grounded when you're building for the stratosphere.This isn't just a conversation about tech. It's about legacy.

In this episode of Branded, hosted by Ben Kaplan, we sit down with Camilla Matias, COO of Brex, to unpack the bold decisions, hard-earned lessons, and unconventional thinking behind one of FinTech's most remarkable scale-ups.Camilla joined Brex when it was a scrappy startup solving one problem: helping fellow founders get access to corporate credit. Today, Brex is a global financial platform used by both startups and Fortune 500 giants.We explore:How Brex went from “do everything” chaos to ruthless focusWhy scaling down was key to scaling upThe power of building your own infrastructure—and your own brandHow a Brazilian mindset shaped Brex's adaptability and cultureWhat most leaders get wrong about growth, AI, and simplificationWhether you're a founder, operator, marketer, or just obsessed with how great companies grow—this episode is packed with insights you don't want to miss.

In this powerful episode of BRANDED, host Ben Kaplan speaks with Maryam Banikarim—former Global CMO at Hyatt Hotels, co-founder of NYC Next, and the visionary behind The Longest Table. Maryam shares her inspiring journey, navigating a non-linear career path defined by pivots, purpose, and resilience, ultimately becoming a passionate advocate for community-building in New York City.Discover how Maryam leveraged purpose-driven leadership, brand storytelling, and authentic relationships to drive tangible impact. She emphasizes the importance of brands genuinely understanding and committing to their values, particularly during times of crisis, and provides valuable insights for marketers and leaders eager to foster meaningful community, loyalty, and brand strength.Whether you're managing career transitions, seeking to fortify your brand, or striving to build enduring communities, this conversation offers indispensable advice from one of today's most influential leaders.

Trust isn't just a marketing buzzword—it's the foundation of every successful brand. But how do you measure it? How do you build it? And how can businesses turn trust into a real competitive advantage?In this episode of Branded, host Ben Kaplan sits down with Dana Bodine, VP of Marketing at Trustpilot, to explore how brands can leverage customer reviews as more than just testimonials—they're a powerful intelligence tool that shapes reputation, drives conversions, and builds long-term credibility.Ben and Dana dive into: Why trust scores matter more than you think—and how just a 0.1% increase can boost conversion rates by 8x The psychology of reviews—why customers actually trust a 4.8-star rating more than a perfect 5.0 The real impact of responding to customer feedback (even negative reviews can become your biggest asset!) How Trustpilot is shaping brand perception in industries like finance, insurance, and e-commerce The fine line between using reviews for marketing and ensuring authenticityIf you're in marketing, branding, or business growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Because in today's world, trust isn't just a nice-to-have—it's a must-have.

In this episode of Branded, Ben Kaplan sits down with Michael Costello, CEO of GNC, to unpack how a 90-year-old health and wellness brand is adapting to today's fast-changing market.With supplements available everywhere—from Amazon to your local grocery store—why would anyone still choose to shop at GNC? Michael shares how GNC is redefining its consumer experience, using data, personalization, and trust to set itself apart from the competition. He breaks down GNC's Five C's strategy, talks about what really matters to today's customers, and explains how the brand is evolving without losing what made it successful in the first place.Key topics include: Why in-store experiences still matter in an online-first world How GNC is using data and loyalty programs to better serve customers The biggest shifts in health and wellness trends right now The challenges of leading a legacy brand in a crowded marketWhether you're into fitness, business, or just curious about how brands stay relevant, this conversation offers a fascinating inside look at the future of GNC—and what other companies can learn from it.

Host Ben Kaplan sits down with Kathryn Bricken, the powerhouse behind Doughlicious, to uncover how she took her passion for baking from school events to Whole Foods shelves across the U.S. Kathryn shares the highs and lows of scaling a global brand, disrupting the frozen snack industry, and making bold moves in a competitive market.But that's not all—this episode also features insights from Liquid Death and Campbell's, as we explore what it takes to build a brand that stands out. From shaking up the beverage world to reinventing legacy food giants, Ben Kaplan leads the conversation on innovation, strategy, and the art of brand disruption.

Ben Kaplan sits down with Mark Bertolini, CEO of Oscar Health and former head of Aetna, to break down one of the biggest healthcare turnarounds in recent history.Oscar Health was bleeding cash, fully dependent on the Affordable Care Act, and struggling to turn a profit. Within just 10 weeks, Mark uncovered $1.4 billion in hidden opportunities, restructured the business, and set it on a path to profitability for the first time ever.In this episode, Mark reveals:Why Oscar's original founders avoided hiring healthcare experts—and how that nearly doomed the company.How AI and large language models cut costs by 1400 basis points.The high-stakes reality of running a company that depends entirely on the U.S. government.His no-nonsense approach to leadership, from fixing broken businesses to out-negotiating industry giants like CVS.What most CEOs get wrong about running a business—and why courage and curiosity matter more than anything else.This is a must-listen for anyone in business, tech, or leadership, as Mark and Ben break down what it really takes to transform an industry built to resist change.

Healthcare marketing is evolving fast—legacy brands are fighting to stay relevant, disruptors are reshaping the industry, and consumers are more skeptical than ever. In this episode of Branded, host Ben Kaplan explores what it takes to stand out, build trust, and drive engagement in this competitive space.We hear from Katelyn Watson, CMO of Talkspace, on how the company pivoted its brand and made virtual mental health care more accessible. Robert Krane, co-founder of Talkiatry, shares how he tackled one of the biggest challenges in psychiatry—access to care. And Pam Morrisroe of Breakthrough T1D discusses the nonprofit approach to building credibility and deepening audience trust.From brand refreshes to social impact marketing, partnerships, and storytelling, this episode is packed with insights for anyone navigating the healthcare industry. Whether you're in marketing, healthcare, or brand strategy, this conversation delivers valuable lessons on standing out and making an impact.

What does it take to build a $160B brand in a world driven by data and trust? In this episode of Branded, host Ben Kaplan sits down with Alice Cherry from S&P Global to reveal the branding strategies that transformed a legacy name into a financial intelligence powerhouse.Discover how a bold rebrand, a high-stakes merger, and a relentless focus on essential intelligence helped S&P Global stand out in a crowded market. Alice shares the challenges of uniting diverse teams under one mission, the power of familiarity over awareness, and why even B2B brands need emotional connections to grow.Whether you're crafting your own brand strategy or just fascinated by how global giants stay relevant, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

Chuck E. Cheese isn't just a childhood memory—it's a brand that faced bankruptcy, a pandemic, and a struggling reputation. But instead of fading into nostalgia, it pulled off one of the boldest brand transformations in entertainment history.In this episode of Branded, host Ben Kaplan sits down with David McKillips, President & CEO of CEC Entertainment, to unpack the $350 million reinvention of Chuck E. Cheese. From wiping out $700M in debt to revamping every location in the U.S., McKillips shares how the company evolved to stay relevant for a new generation.How did they pivot from crisis to comeback? Why did they ditch the animatronics? And what's next for Chuck E. Cheese as a global entertainment brand?Find out in this deep dive with Ben Kaplan on Branded!

In this episode of Branded, Ben Kaplan sits down with Katherine Bond Debicki, Chief Marketing, Digital, and Technology Officer for KFC Canada, to explore how one of the world's most iconic brands stays relevant in a rapidly changing food landscape. Katherine breaks down the three major waves of disruption that have shaped the quick-service restaurant (QSR) industry—from the invention of the drive-thru to the rise of digital ordering and now, the shift toward experience-driven marketing. She shares how KFC leverages its legendary brand assets, like the 11 herbs and spices, the Colonel, and the bucket, while modernising the customer experience to engage new generations of consumers. We also dive into the power of consumer insights, discussing how KFC stays ahead of the competition by focusing on what matters to customers today—from viral food trends to cultural relevance, like their recent Taylor Swift campaign.Finally, we explore what QSR brands can learn from other industries, how earned media and strategic data are shaping marketing, and why the future of fast food isn't just about value—it's about offering a moment of escape, excitement, and personalisation. And stay tuned—later in the episode, we explore the world of customisable, sugar-free indulgence with Skinny Mixes, a brand redefining how we enjoy our favourite drinks.

In this episode of Branded, Ben Kaplan sits down with Sarah Crockett, CMO of DSW (Designer Shoe Warehouse), to discuss the art of reviving a retail giant. With eight months in the role, Sarah shares her strategy for repositioning DSW, tapping into consumer insights, and creating an emotional connection with customers across generations. She explores the challenge of bringing back the brand's "heat", navigating multi-channel retail, and adapting to cultural shifts. Plus, she reveals why physical stores remain her #1 marketing channel, the power of storytelling in marketing, and the biggest myth about retail's future. - What does your shoe choice say about you? - How do brands stay relevant in a fast-changing world? - Why does Sarah hate big campaign reveals? If you care about brand strategy, consumer psychology, or marketing innovation, this episode is a must-listen.

What makes Jack in the Box one of the most crave-worthy fast-food brands? In this episode of Branded, host Ben Kaplan sits down with Ryan Ostrom, Chief Customer Officer at Jack in the Box, to uncover the bold marketing strategies, digital innovations, and brand positioning that keep them ahead of the competition.Ryan reveals how Jack in the Box stays relevant in a rapidly changing industry—leveraging celebrity collaborations with icons like Snoop Dogg, expanding into new markets, and mastering the art of digital loyalty. He also shares insights into the "Crave Strategy," a framework that drives everything from menu innovation to social media engagement.Whether you're a marketing enthusiast, a fast-food fan, or just curious about how brands build cult-like followings, this episode serves up valuable lessons on staying competitive, connecting with customers, and making a lasting impact.

In this episode, Ben Kaplan sits down with Rory Sutherland, Vice Chairman of Ogilvy UK, to explore the fascinating intersections of behavioral science, marketing, and human psychology. Rory shares his insights on how small, seemingly insignificant changes can drive massive consumer behavior shifts and why reframing is essential in marketing strategy. The conversation touches on Jaguar's rebranding, the role of humor in advertising, and the unexpected power of irrationality in decision-making. Rory also discusses the importance of seeking out opportunity costs, the value of curiosity in creativity, and how brands can differentiate themselves by leveraging unconventional thinking. Packed with humor, real-world examples, and sharp observations, this episode is a masterclass in creative problem-solving and the surprising power of ideas that defy logic.

Introducing BRANDED! In this announcement, we reveal the exciting merger of TOP CEO and TOP CMO into one powerhouse podcast. Get a sneak peek into the bold stories and big ideas driving the world's most iconic brands. Featuring names like Rory Sutherland, Liquid Death, and the former CMO of Nike, this is your front-row seat to the minds shaping the future of branding. Perfect for anyone curious about how brands break through and stay legendary.

In this episode of TOP CMO, Ben Kaplan sits down with Karen Budell, CMO of Totango, to explore the challenges and opportunities of navigating a high-speed merger with competitor Catalyst. Karen shares her journey from journalist to marketing leader, offering insights on aligning teams, crafting compelling brand narratives, and integrating diverse marketing strategies. Discover how Karen's background in storytelling and content marketing informs her approach to customer success and growth, and learn why she champions non-traditional career paths. Whether you're a marketing enthusiast or a business leader, this episode is packed with actionable advice on building stronger teams, driving customer retention, and leveraging thought leadership.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Courtney Weis, Managing Director of Brand Marketing at FP Movement, Free People's activewear brand. Courtney shares her journey from talent management to leading a brand that celebrates diverse forms of movement. Discover how FP Movement thrived during the pandemic, leveraging influencer partnerships, community engagement, and a strong brand identity to achieve remarkable growth. In this episode, we dive into: How FP Movement built a community-first approach during the pandemic. The balance between influencer creativity and brand alignment. Key traits every marketer needs for success. Courtney's career advice for aspiring marketers. Get ready to be inspired by Courtney's vision, adaptability, and passion for creating authentic connections with customers. Perfect for marketers, fashion enthusiasts, and anyone looking to build a brand that stands out.

In this episode of Branded, Ben Kaplan sits down with Dustin Godsey, Chief Sales and Marketing Officer for the Milwaukee Bucks, to discuss how a basketball team transforms into a global content and entertainment powerhouse. Dustin shares insights into building fan engagement across local and international audiences, launching innovative content initiatives like the Bucks' podcast network, and leveraging superstar players like Giannis Antetokounmpo as influencers. Discover how the Bucks combine data-driven strategies, cultural relevance, and creative storytelling to super-serve their local market while expanding their reach to a worldwide fanbase. Plus, hear behind-the-scenes stories of turning championship wins into marketing milestones and how the Bucks stay resilient beyond their "championship window."

In this episode, we dive into the audacious and hilarious world of Liquid Death with Greg Fass, the brand's VP of Marketing. Discover how this water company defied industry norms with a bold, comedy-first approach, turning a healthy beverage into a cultural phenomenon. Greg shares insights on Liquid Death's viral marketing strategy, unexpected collaborations, and the power of earned media to "win the internet" on a budget. From corpse paint to casket coolers, Liquid Death isn't just selling water—it's redefining what a brand can be. With host Ben Kaplan.

In this episode of Top CMO, Ben Kaplan sits down with Melody Lee, the Chief Marketing Officer of Mercedes-Benz USA, to explore how one of the world's most iconic luxury brands is staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. Melody shares insights on balancing the brand's storied heritage with cutting-edge innovation, from embracing electrification and autonomous driving to reaching new, diverse audiences in the U.S. market. Drawing from her impressive career—spanning roles at Cadillac, Shiseido, and Herman Miller—Melody reveals how she's navigating the challenges of redefining luxury, building brand relevance, and leveraging multicultural marketing to shape the future of Mercedes-Benz. Plus, she opens up about her biggest lessons as a marketing leader, the best advice she's ever received, and the one headline that changed her perspective on messaging forever. Whether you're a marketer, a car enthusiast, or someone curious about how global brands adapt to a changing world, this episode is packed with valuable insights and candid reflections. Don't miss it!

In this episode, Amy Halford, CMO of Thrive Pet Healthcare, shares how she's redefining pet healthcare marketing by blending trust, innovation, and customer-centric strategies. From building emotional connections with pet owners to leveraging digital transformation, Amy reveals the unique challenges of marketing services over products, lessons from her time at Best Buy and General Mills, and how Thrive is shaping the future of veterinary care. If you've ever wondered what it takes to build a trusted brand in the healthcare industry, this is the episode for you.

Discover how The RealReal's CMO, Sri Batchu, is redefining luxury resale marketing with host Ben Kaplan. From leveraging AI and diversifying marketing bets to building passionate customer loyalty, this episode dives into the strategies driving $2 billion in sales annually. A must-watch for marketers, innovators, and anyone curious about the future of e-commerce!

In this episode of TOP CMO, Jackson Carpenter speaks with Janelle Hanley, CMO at the Hospital for Special Surgery, to uncover the art of marketing healthcare without it feeling like marketing. From leveraging short-form video to building trust through patient stories, Janelle shares how her consumer-brand approach revolutionizes orthopedic care. Dive into the strategies that blend creativity, consumer insight, and purpose to meet patients where they are and guide them toward the best care choices. Whether you're in healthcare or marketing, this conversation is a masterclass in meaningful engagement.

In this episode of Top CMO, we sit down with Noha Abdalla, the Chief Marketing Officer of Choice Hotels, to explore what it takes to market a portfolio of 22 hotel brands, including Comfort Inn, Cambria, and the recently acquired Radisson Hotels Americas. Noha shares her journey from rebranding Animal Planet to leading marketing innovations in the hospitality industry, and how she balances the needs of consumers, franchisees, and investors. We dive into the challenges of creating emotional connections with guests, the role of AI in modern marketing, and the art of making every dollar count. Whether you're a marketer, a business leader, or simply curious about what drives success in the competitive world of hospitality, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration.

On this episode of TOP CMO, host Ben Kaplan speaks with Adrienne Ingoldt, Chief Marketing Officer at Pilot Company—the largest network of roadside travel centers in North America and a key part of Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway portfolio. Adrienne reveals how she's leading a monumental shift from a B2B-focused strategy to creating a consumer-first brand that resonates with everyone from professional truck drivers to road-tripping families. Explore the innovative ways Pilot Company is breaking out of a commoditized category, using data-driven personalization, loyalty programs, and emotional storytelling to win over hearts (and wallets). Adrienne shares exclusive insights into building brand awareness in a historically overlooked industry, balancing B2B and B2C priorities, and driving customer loyalty with cutting-edge marketing techniques. If you're a CMO or marketing leader eager to learn how to create consumer loyalty in competitive markets—or just fascinated by how marketing can transform entire industries—this is an episode you can't miss.

In this insightful episode of TOP CMO, Jackson Carpenter chats with Dave King, CMO at HeyGen, to explore the cutting-edge world of AI-powered video creation. Discover how Heygen is revolutionizing video production by making it faster, more personalized, and accessible to businesses of all sizes. Dive into the challenges of marketing to a global audience, the impact of AI on content creation, and strategies for building trust and safety in digital storytelling. Gain inspiration from Dave's rich career spanning Salesforce and Asana, and learn how to adapt and thrive in a fast-evolving marketing landscape.

In this episode, we dive into the heart of what makes Ace Hardware a beloved and resilient brand with Kim Lefko, Chief Marketing Officer of Ace Hardware. Kim shares insights into how Ace celebrates 100 years of service and community through initiatives like its new documentary series, which captures heart-warming stories of "Red-Vested Heroes" going above and beyond for their customers. Discover how this co-op retailer keeps a local focus while growing to over 5,000 stores nationwide, stays true to its three pillars of service, convenience, and quality, and continually reinvents its brand to stay relevant in the digital era. Kim's candid take on customer trust, the power of authenticity, and why staying rooted in a brand's ethos matters—especially in today's crowded retail space—make this a conversation brimming with lessons for marketers and business leaders alike. Tune in to be inspired by the legacy and future of the “helpful place.”

In this episode of TOP CMO, Ben Kaplan sits down with Rowan Tonkin, CMO of Planful, to discuss the evolving landscape of financial planning and how companies can achieve profitable growth in today's market. Rowan shares insights on shifting from a "growth at all costs" mindset to a more controlled, sustainable approach. They dive deep into the challenges of staying industry-agnostic while tailoring marketing strategies to diverse personas, and how marketers can foster stronger relationships with CFOs by aligning on commercial and financial metrics. Tune in to explore how Rowan navigates the balance between short-term wins and long-term value in a dynamic business environment.

Join us on TOP CMO as we sit down with Wendy Wu, CMO of SailPoint, to explore her journey from Microsoft to Google and beyond. Wendy shares key insights into navigating the evolving landscape of marketing, the importance of being data-driven, and her experience shaping SailPoint into a leader in identity security. Whether you're interested in SaaS, leadership, or crafting a winning marketing strategy, this episode delivers actionable takeaways for aspiring CMOs and seasoned professionals alike.

In this episode, Eric Hanson, CMO of Mitel, shares insights on repositioning a long-established company to navigate industry shifts and challenge modern market hype. Eric dives into strategies for aligning sales, marketing, and product teams, overcoming the pandemic's impact, and ensuring long-term success in a hybrid business communications landscape. Tune in to learn how to redefine a brand's story while maintaining core values in a dynamic market environment.

In this episode, Ben Kaplan sits down with Kristen D'Arcy, Chief Marketing Officer at True Religion, to explore how the iconic denim brand reinvented itself. Kristen shares insights on maintaining authenticity, connecting with urban culture, and co-creating with customers to keep the brand relevant. From navigating turnarounds and embracing digital-first strategies to executing 360-degree holiday campaigns, she offers a candid look at how True Religion is resonating with new audiences while staying true to its roots. Tune in to hear about the exciting collaborations, bold moves, and what's next for this legendary brand.

In this episode of TOP CMO, Jackson Carpenter sits down with Nate Chang, CMO of CycleBar—the world's largest indoor cycling franchise with over 200 locations globally. Nate shares his experience navigating the challenges of maintaining brand consistency while adapting to the unique needs of franchisees. From his days leading the rebrand of Yoga Six to expanding CycleBar's presence, Nate dives into the strategic insights that help franchise marketers empower local owners, stay relevant, and evolve in a competitive fitness industry. Tune in to hear how customer feedback, adaptable marketing, and a strong brand vision have shaped CycleBar's continued growth and success​.

In this episode of TOP CMO, Ben Kaplan interviews MariCarmen Ribes, Chief Marketing Officer of Kyndryl UK and Ireland, who shares the inside story of how Kyndryl emerged from its IBM legacy to become a bold, independent brand. With over 25 years of experience, MariCarmen dives into what makes the “Kyndryl Way” unique—a culture built on being restless, empathetic, and devoted. She explains how these core values are not just internal principles but are infused into every customer interaction, redefining how Kyndryl builds trust and strengthens relationships post-spin-off. From creating a distinctive identity to implementing a comprehensive account-based marketing strategy, MariCarmen provides a masterclass in modern marketing, leadership, and the power of culture. She also explores Kyndryl's strategic use of AI, shares lessons learned from navigating damaged customer relationships, and offers her perspective on achieving work-life balance as a leader.

In this episode of TOP CMO, we sit down with Melissa Waters, CMO of Upwork, to explore the evolution of remote work, the power of AI in talent acquisition, and the challenges of rebranding a global freelancing platform. Melissa shares insights on how Upwork is shifting the narrative from a transactional marketplace to a long-term staffing solution, while navigating the rise of AI and maintaining a strong company culture in a remote-first environment. Tune in to hear her strategies for driving brand awareness and fostering a community of innovation and high-quality talent.

In this episode, Ben Kaplan sits down with Elisa Padilla, the dynamic CMO of the New York Red Bulls. With over 20 years of marketing leadership across top brands like HBO, Apple, and the Miami Marlins, Elisa shares her insights on how to create unforgettable fan experiences and build community through sports. From youth programs to influencer marketing and the "Messi Effect," Elisa dives deep into what it takes to engage audiences in one of the world's most competitive markets. Tune in to hear her winning strategies for connecting with fans and elevating a brand's true potential.

In this episode of TOP CMO, host Jackson Carpenter sits down with Barry Westrum, former CMO of Taco John's, to explore the fast-food industry from the inside. Barry shares insights from his 30+ year career, spanning iconic brands like Taco Bell, Dairy Queen, and Del Taco. They discuss the power of emotional connections in marketing, the importance of quality in a competitive space, and how Taco John's differentiates itself with bold flavors and innovation. Learn how Barry's experience in product development and franchise relationships has shaped the success of beloved food brands.

In this episode of Top CMO, Jackson Carpenter sits down with Pam Morrisroe, CMO of Breakthrough T1D, to dive into the power of data-led rebranding, building trust in non-profit marketing, and the importance of agency experience in shaping a successful marketing career. Pam shares key insights from her 30+ years in top marketing roles, offering strategies on name testing, leveraging partnerships, and using user-generated content to boost engagement. Tune in to explore the lessons every CMO should know and how to drive mission-led campaigns with data-driven precision.

Join us on this episode of TOP CMO as Ben Kaplan sits down with Chad Waetzig, the CMO of Crunch Fitness, to explore how Crunch has grown from 125 to over 465 locations worldwide. Chad shares his insights into franchise marketing, the importance of localizing campaigns, and why listening to franchisees is key to success. Discover how Crunch's unique "high-value, low-price" model, coupled with creative storytelling, helps the brand compete with industry giants. Plus, learn how the pandemic reshaped fitness trends and how Crunch is adapting with hybrid workout solutions.

In this episode of TOP CMO, Jackson Carpenter sits down with Zarina Stanford, the CMO of Bazaarvoice, a leader in user-generated content and customer feedback solutions. With over 25 years of marketing leadership experience across companies like IBM, SAP, and Rackspace, Zarina shares insights on the evolving role of the CMO, the power of user-generated content, and how brands can leverage consumer feedback for product development. Tune in to discover how CMOs are shifting from marketing experts to pivotal business leaders in today's digital landscape.

In this episode of TOP CMO, Ben Kaplan interviews Adam Salgado, CMO of Heritage Grocers Group. Adam shares how the company connects with Hispanic and Latino communities through culturally authentic marketing and strong community ties. He discusses the importance of understanding diverse audiences, the impact of the pandemic on grocery shopping, and innovative promotions like the Lotteria sweepstakes. This episode is a must-listen for marketers looking to enhance their multicultural strategies.

In this episode, we dive deep into the journey of Alison Lindland, the CMO of Movable Ink. Alison shares how she joined the company as its 14th employee and helped transform it into a unicorn business. From navigating the challenges of a startup to leading innovative marketing strategies, Alison discusses her approach to scaling customer success and her philosophy on leadership. Discover how Movable Ink leverages AI-powered content to drive personalized marketing experiences, including collaborations with big brands like Spotify and Dunkin' Donuts. Whether you're interested in startup growth, the evolution of MarTech, or leadership insights, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for marketers at all levels. Tune in to hear Alison's thoughts on building a strong culture, the role of CMOs as change agents, and the strategic decisions that have defined her career.

For this episode of TOP CMO, host Ben Kaplan speaks with Pierre Dadd, former CMO of Virtua (formerly Terra Virtua), a pioneering metaverse and digital collectibles platform. The episode explores the evolution of marketing in Web3, with a focus on the role of community engagement, the metaverse, and NFTs. Pierre shares insights from his experiences at major brands like LEGO and Disney, discussing how those lessons influence his approach to building immersive experiences in the metaverse. The conversation covers challenges in educating new audiences, adapting traditional marketing strategies, and navigating the fast-paced world of Web3 innovation.