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In 2025, the Indian rupee has quietly become Asia’s worst-performing currency but the real impact isn’t just on trading screens, it’s inside Indian homes. From higher cooking oil prices and costlier foreign education to travel bills and shrinking savings returns, rupee volatility is reshaping middle-class finances in ways few anticipate. Why is the currency weakening despite strong GDP growth, healthy forex reserves, and a manageable current account deficit? Host Anirban Chowdhury talks to Madan Sabnavis, Chief Economist, Bank of Baroda to unpack how import inflation seeps in with a lag, why RBI interventions focus more on volatility than levels, and why currency swings hurt consumers more than a steady decline. With foreign investors pulling billions out, US-India trade talks stalled, and global sentiment overpowering fundamentals, the rupee’s fate may lie beyond domestic control. Listen In:You can follow Anirban Chowdhury on his social media: X and Linkedin Check out other interesting episodes from the host like Battle Beyond Borders, Peace Perished: Explaining the Pahalgam Terror Attack, Corner Office Conversation with Sridhar Vembu, CEO, of Zoho Corporation, Rebel Foods’ chief on Building Brands, Tech, and an IPO on the Horizon and much more. Catch the latest episode of ‘The Morning Brief’ on The Economic Times Online, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Amazon Music and Youtube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Half your milk comes from animals grazing on land the government calls wasteland. The mutton in your biryani? Same story. We're talking ₹1.3 lakh crore annually 5% of India's GDP built on ecosystems we've systematically mislabeled as worthless since the British needed a tax category for "land we can't monetize. Now we're converting these "wastelands" into solar farms at scale without asking the millions of pastoralists who depend on them, or calculating the carbon stored beneath them, or wondering what happens when milk and meat prices spike because we've paved over the free grazing grounds that keep them affordable. The twist? These aren't degraded lands waiting for rehabilitation. They're ancient grasslands and savannas that have existed for millennia, doing exactly what they're supposed to do. We just never bothered to look closely enough to notice. Until now, when it might be too late. Host Anirban Chowdhury asks Dr Abi Vanak, Director, Centre for Policy Design at the Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and the Environment (ATREE-CPD), to explain. Listen in:You can follow Anirban Chowdhury on his social media: X and Linkedin Check out other interesting episodes from the host like Battle Beyond Borders, Peace Perished: Explaining the Pahalgam Terror Attack, Corner Office Conversation with Sridhar Vembu, CEO, of Zoho Corporation, Rebel Foods’ chief on Building Brands, Tech, and an IPO on the Horizon and much more. Catch the latest episode of ‘The Morning Brief’ on The Economic Times Online, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Amazon Music and Youtube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
India’s nuclear energy framework is set for its most consequential reset in decades with the passage of the Shanti Bill. In this episode, host Anirban Chowdhury speaks to ET’s executive editor, politics Pranab Dhal Samanta and Anubhuti Vishnoi to unpack what the new law changes and why it matters now. The discussion traces India’s long nuclear journey: from staying outside the Non-Proliferation Treaty and building indigenous capabilities, to gaining global legitimacy after the Indo-US nuclear deal. Yet, despite access to international fuel and technology, expansion remained sluggish, constrained by strict liability norms and a tightly controlled, state-led model. The Shanti Bill seeks to change that. It consolidates existing laws into a single framework, removes supplier liability, aligns compensation rules with global conventions, and introduces graded liability caps. Crucially, it opens the door to private participation, separates regulatory and operational roles, and clarifies responsibilities across the nuclear fuel cycle while keeping strategic control with the state. As nuclear power is expected to play a larger role in India’s long-term energy mix, this episode explains how the new framework could reshape the future of civilian nuclear power in the country. You can follow Anirban Chowdhury on his social media: X and LinkedinCheck out other interesting episodes from the host likeBattle Beyond Borders, Peace Perished: Explaining the Pahalgam Terror Attack, Corner Office Conversation with Sridhar Vembu, CEO, of Zoho Corporation, Rebel Foods’ chief on Building Brands, Tech, and an IPO on the Horizon and much more.Catch the latest episode of ‘The Morning Brief’ on The Economic Times Online, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Amazon Music and Youtube.Credits: Films Division, Indian National Congress, DNAIndiaNews, AP Archive, MintSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why do small businesses still wait months to be paid, even when the law says 45 days? In this episode of The Morning Brief, we examine one of the most persistent stress points in India’s MSME ecosystem: delayed payments. Host Anirban Chowdhury speaks with Basant Kaur, Country Head of C2FO and Ramesh Dharmaji Senior advisor of the Global Alliance of Mass Entrepreneurship (GAME) to unpack why payment backlogs—running into over 7.3 lakh crore rupees—continue despite legal mandates. The conversation moves from banking credit flows and risk appetite to the promise and pitfalls of platforms like TReDS, and why buyer participation remains the missing link. The episode also explores whether regulation alone is enough, or if behavioural change, digital infrastructure, and faster dispute resolution are equally critical. As MSMEs power jobs, exports, and growth, the discussion raises a timely question: can India fix its payment bottleneck before it chokes the very enterprises driving its economy?Tune inYou can follow Anirban Chowdhury on his social media: X and LinkedinCheck out other interesting episodes from the host likeBattle Beyond BordersPeace Perished: Explaining the Pahalgam Terror AttackCorner Office Conversation with Sridhar Vembu, CEO, of Zoho CorporationRebel Foods’ chief on Building Brands, Tech, and an IPO on the HorizonBooking’s APAC Chief on Travel Trends, AI, and LoyaltyReliance’s AI PlaybookText-to-Theater? How AI is Rewriting Cinema Part 1How AI is Rewriting Cinema Part 2 Catch the latest episode of ‘The Morning Brief’ on The Economic Times Online, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Amazon Music and Youtube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Recorded live at The Sugar Club, this special edition of The Entrepreneur Experiment brings three standout Irish founders on stage for an honest, high-energy conversation about building modern businesses in public. Aine Kennedy, founder of The Smooth Company and newly crowned EY Entrepreneur of the Year, shares how she launched her first product with no budget, built everything herself, with the help of her family, and turned documenting the journey on TikTok into 150 million organic views, now shipping to 70 countries worldwide. Nadia Adan, founder of Ashford Motors, breaks down how she went from a small yard and a handful of cars to creating one of Ireland's most recognisable automotive brands - by obsessing over customer experience, moving faster than traditional dealers, and using social media to build trust at scale. Rounding out the panel, Jack Pierse, co-founder of Wayflyer and now Bold Golf and Happy Stack, reflects on launching a fintech at the start of COVID, scaling to €100 million per month in lending, the realities of hypergrowth, and what he's doing differently this time. From viral content and community-led growth to staying lean, moving fast, and learning the hard lessons of scale, this live episode is packed with real-world insight, plenty of humour, and unfiltered founder stories. An entertaining and insightful listen for you! Show Notes Hosted by Gary Fox, with Aine Kennedy, Nadia Adan, and Jack Pierse Recorded live at The Sugar Club, Dublin How Aine Kennedy launched The Smooth Company from scratch and built a global brand by documenting the journey online Turning TikTok into a growth engine: 150 million organic views and customers in 70 countries Why building in public — without gatekeeping — is changing who feels able to start a business Nadia Adan's rise from a small car yard to one of Ireland's most recognisable automotive brands Using customer service, flexibility, and speed to outperform traditional main dealers Dealing with online trolls when reputation and real-world sales are on the line The Wayflyer origin story: launching during COVID and scaling to €100M per month in lending The realities of hypergrowth, rapid hiring, and the lessons learned the hard way Why Jack Pierse is building his second company, Happy Stack, slower and leaner A candid, entertaining live discussion on growth, community, and staying adaptable in modern business Links & Resources The Smooth Company – https://www.thesmoothcompany.com/ Ashford Motors - https://www.ashfordmotors.ie/ Happy Stack – https://www.happystack.com/ Bold Golf - https://bold-golf.com/ —— Subscribe to our newsletter for weekly inspiration on Business, Brain and Body, as well as exclusive events, courses and more, straight to your inbox. It's free! https://www.mrgaryfox.com/subscribe-1 --- Visit my partners Azure Communications: https://bit.ly/azureEE Nostra: https://bit.ly/3HHwSMo —- Music Credit: “Nobody Knows” by Andrew Applepie — used under royalty-free license.
Laura Donnelly is the Vice President of Marketing for the Philips Distilling Company, where she leads brand strategy and growth across a diverse spirits portfolio. Under her leadership, Prairie Organic Spirits expanded its Bee Better initiative focused on supporting pollinator heath and environmentally responsible farming. She shares insights on purpose driven marketing and the Bee Better mission, along with some fun facts about these vital partners in creating the foods we enjoy
Wir heißen Euch willkommen zu einer neuen Episode des Digital Product Talks! Heute zu Gast ist Murat Acevit, ehemaliger CPO von AlphaTauri, dem premium Modelabel von Red Bull.
Anderson Schoenrock is the Co-founder and CEO of Memory Ventures, a fast-growing portfolio of direct-to-consumer e-commerce brands and services specializing in digitization, wall art, gifting, and 3PL/logistics solutions. Paul Bigham is the President and Founder of Bigham Agency, a marketing, advertising, and strategic consulting firm specializing in nonprofit outreach, brand development, and omni-channel communications. Dale Castro is the Co-founder and Chief Creative & Strategy Officer at Overlap Interactive, a full-service digital marketing and development agency specializing in creative strategy, web design, SEO/paid media, and holistic omnichannel digital experiences. Esther Kiss is the Founder & CEO of Born To Influence, the go-to PR firm for entrepreneurs, founders, and brands that aim to challenge the status quo through their innovative approach, products, and services. In this episode… Navigating the fast-paced, ever-changing world of business can feel overwhelming, especially when trying to stay ahead, grow sustainably, and make meaningful connections. What if there were smarter, more actionable ways to preserve memories, scale brands, enhance communication, and leverage cutting-edge tools — without the usual trial and error? Anderson Schoenrock, Paul Bigham, Dale Castro, and Esther Kiss reveal how they're redefining entrepreneurship, marketing, and personal branding with innovation, strategy, and practical insights. Anderson shares how Memory Ventures grows multiple direct-to-consumer brands and a 3PL business while introducing eco-friendly products like dissolvable wrapping paper and specialty coffee through Crema Coffee Products. Paul discusses mindset, communication, and strategies for raising funds for large-scale humanitarian initiatives. Dale highlights leadership lessons, agency growth strategies, and his favorite business books. Esther offers guidance on personal branding, media exposure, and using AI tools to create efficient, impactful content. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz talks with Anderson Schoenrock, Paul Bigham, Dale Castro, and Esther Kiss about building sustainable businesses and achieving long-term growth. They share practical insights on emotional intelligence, copywriting, productivity, and modern tech adoption to help listeners sharpen their skills, innovate, and strengthen relationships.
A zero-commission bet that rewired India’s e-commerce playbook. In this episode of The Morning Brief, host Samidha Sharma and ET’s Pranav Mukul break down Meesho’s unconventional rise with CEO Vidit Aatrey from leveraging WhatsApp resellers and an asset-light model to becoming a category-shaping marketplace challenging Amazon and Flipkart without owning warehouses. With 50% order growth, positive cash flows, and plans to go public, Meesho now eyes AI-led personalisation, financial services, and deeper entry into affordable categories. But as return rates climb, margins thin, and investor scrutiny sharpens, a bigger question looms: can Meesho scale sustainably while staying true to its low-cost DNA? Tune in.You can follow Samidha Sharma on her Linkedin, X profiles and read her Newspaper Articles. You can follow Pranav Mukul on her Linkedin, X profiles and read her Newspaper Articles. Check out other interesting episodes from the host like Battle Beyond Borders, Peace Perished: Explaining the Pahalgam Terror Attack, Corner Office Conversation with Sridhar Vembu, CEO, of Zoho Corporation, Rebel Foods’ chief on Building Brands, Tech, and an IPO on the Horizon and much more.Catch the latest episode of ‘The Morning Brief’ on The Economic Times Online, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Amazon Music and Youtube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
My guest this week is Jason John, a seasoned marketing leader and entrepreneur who has spent his career at the crossroads of culture and digital innovation. Jason has served as CMO at 1-800-Flowers.com and Publishers Clearing House, and he has held senior marketing roles at several iconic retail and lifestyle brands, including J.Crew and Martha Stewart, where he led large-scale digital transformation and customer growth.He was also part of Gilt Groupe during the height of the flash-sale era, helping drive triple-digit growth and contributing to the development of one of the first scaled mobile e-commerce apps. And because that wasn't enough, Jason recently launched True North Group, a venture that brings together brands, athletes, and communities through premium live experiences and purpose-driven partnerships.Known for blending data, creativity, and cultural insight, Jason is passionate about harnessing AI, performance marketing, and purpose-driven storytelling to build movements—not just campaigns.
India's biggest overhaul of labour laws has officially taken shape, reshaping how millions of workers and thousands of businesses will operate. In this episode, host Anirban Chowdhury, ET’s national editor, economics, Deepshikha Sikarwar and Yogima Seth Sharma talk to labour secretary Vandana Gurnani, Poorvi Chothani, founder and MD of LawQuest and Anjali Sardana, founder of Pronto about what the shift from 29 separate laws to four unified labour codes really means from a stricter, clearer wage definition to the long-awaited recognition of gig and platform workers. We explore how the new 50% basic pay rule could alter take-home salaries, why fixed-term employees now stand on par with permanent staff, and how the raised retrenchment threshold aims to balance flexibility with worker safeguards.The conversation also examines the realities of state-level implementation, potential compliance challenges for companies with distributed teams, and the government’s push toward faceless, tech-enabled filings. Whether you’re an employer preparing for transition or a worker trying to understand your rights, this episode offers a sharp, practical guide to India’s new labour landscape.Listen in: You can follow Anirban Chowdhury on his social media: X and LinkedinCheck out other interesting episodes from the host likeBattle Beyond Borders, Peace Perished: Explaining the Pahalgam Terror Attack, Corner Office Conversation with Sridhar Vembu, CEO, of Zoho Corporation, Rebel Foods’ chief on Building Brands, Tech, and an IPO on the Horizon and much more. Catch the latest episode of ‘The Morning Brief’ on The Economic Times Online, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Amazon Music and Youtube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
India’s Women in Blue have just delivered a World Cup win that electrified the nation, but what comes after the euphoria? In this episode of The Morning Brief, host Anirban Choudhury talks to branding and marketing veterans Harish Bijoor and Lloyd Mathias about what this historic moment means for the future of women’s cricket from visibility and storytelling to sponsorships, fan economies and year-round opportunities. We look at the structural shifts the sport needs, the commercial forces shaping its next phase, and what it will take to turn one breakthrough win into a sustainable, thriving ecosystem. Are we finally ready to build women’s cricket for the long haul?Tune in: You can follow Anirban Chowdhury on his social media: X and LinkedinCheck out other interesting episodes from the host likeBattle Beyond Borders, Peace Perished: Explaining the Pahalgam Terror Attack, Corner Office Conversation with Sridhar Vembu, CEO, of Zoho Corporation, Rebel Foods’ chief on Building Brands, Tech, and an IPO on the Horizon and much more. Catch the latest episode of ‘The Morning Brief’ on The Economic Times Online, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Amazon Music and Youtube.Credit: StarsportsSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Today in the business of podcasting: today is the last day to submit to the Podscape winter update, Tom Webster discusses building a brand to sell with your podcast, IAB Australia announces first 2026 event dates and survey, The Podglomerate presents 22 industry leaders looking back at the year and forward to the next, tracking how loyal your podcast audience is, and Eventbrite partners with Listener.com. . Find links to every article covered by heading to the Download section of SoundsProfitable.com, or by clicking here to go directly to today's installment.
T. Christian Helms is the creative force behind Helms Workshop, a branding agency based in Austin known for crafting bold, character-driven brands. He's a designer, writer, speaker, and former Pentagram-er who once designed a logo in a Burger King bathroom (yep, really).In this episode, Christian and Nicholas Kuhne dive into why design without thinking is dead, how to build a brand that makes people feel something, and what separates a pretty logo from a movement. If you've ever been frustrated by clients picking the “safe” option, or wondered whether brand agencies still matter in an AI-driven world – this is the one to queue up.
Today in the business of podcasting: today is the last day to submit to the Podscape winter update, Tom Webster discusses building a brand to sell with your podcast, IAB Australia announces first 2026 event dates and survey, The Podglomerate presents 22 industry leaders looking back at the year and forward to the next, tracking how loyal your podcast audience is, and Eventbrite partners with Listener.com. . Find links to every article covered by heading to the Download section of SoundsProfitable.com, or by clicking here to go directly to today's installment.
He's taught future CEOs, launched student-run stores, and believes most consultants are a waste of money. In this episode, we're back with John Talbott, senior marketing faculty at the Kelley School of Business to talk about what 17 years in the classroom has taught him about learning, leadership, and retail. John shares how Kelley trains students for real-world careers, the origin story behind Kelly Outfitters, and why motivation is the most powerful factor in education. He also reflects on post-pandemic retail, how Home Depot outpaced expectations, and why every bank should think more like a store. From early e-commerce to environmental impact, this one's packed with honest takes and sharp insights from one of the most respected voices in marketing education. Connect with John Talbott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtalbott1/ If you need branded solutions for your events, giveaways and employee engagement, check out Club Colors: https://www.clubcolors.com
When terror walks in wearing a stethoscope or carrying a university ID, how do you even begin to see it coming?”The Delhi car blast has forced India to confront an unsettling new reality: white-collar extremism, where trained professionals—doctors, engineers, academics—operate far from the traditional profile of militancy. In this episode of The Morning Brief, host Anirban Chowdhury traces how a few posters on the outskirts of Srinagar opened a trail leading investigators into a covert network built to blend in, not stand out. To unpack this shift, we speak with ET’s Hakeem Irfan Rashid, who maps the origins of the case, and experts — Dr. Christine Fair and psychologist Dr. John Horgan, author of the acclaimed book The Psychology of Terrorism — who explain how modern extremism is becoming fluid, grievance-driven, and increasingly shaped by online radicalization. As internet-enabled lone-wolf actors rise and global conflict zones spill over into new geographies, the conversation asks a pressing question: are India’s institutions, intelligence frameworks, and even our basic assumptions about risk prepared for this next phase of threat?Tune InYou can follow Anirban Chowdhury on his social media: X and LinkedinCheck out other interesting episodes from the host likeBattle Beyond BordersPeace Perished: Explaining the Pahalgam Terror AttackCorner Office Conversation with Sridhar Vembu, CEO, of Zoho CorporationRebel Foods’ chief on Building Brands, Tech, and an IPO on the HorizonBooking’s APAC Chief on Travel Trends, AI, and LoyaltyReliance’s AI PlaybookText-to-Theater? How AI is Rewriting Cinema Part 1How AI is Rewriting Cinema Part 2 Catch the latest episode of ‘The Morning Brief’ on The Economic Times Online, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, JioSaavn, Amazon Music and Youtube.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of the Drop in CEO podcast, host Deb Coviello welcomes Terry Blachek, an accomplished entrepreneur and franchise leader with over 35 years of experience in the health, fitness, and consumer lifestyle sectors. Terry shares his journey from humble beginnings to scaling major fitness brands like Orange Theory Fitness, discusses the importance of clarity, business models, and mindset, and offers actionable advice for leaders looking to grow and sustain their businesses. Episode Highlights: 2:22 — Terry’s entrepreneurial roots and early career in fitness and business 6:18 — The founding and explosive growth of Orange Theory Fitness 10:25 — The power of clarity, communication, and solving the right problem in business 19:36 — Mindset, overcoming adversity, and building a personal advisory board Terry Blachek is an accomplished entrepreneur, speaker, and franchise leader with over 35 years in health, fitness, and lifestyle industries. As Managing Director at Franvest Capital Partners, he scales high-growth brands, including The Dog Stop. A founding partner of Orangetheory Fitness, he built Austin Fitness Group into 130+ studios and earned induction into the Orangetheory Hall of Fame. A recognized industry voice, he’s spoken at IHRSA, Disney Institute, and hosts the Tuesday with Terry podcast. Formerly an executive at Crunch, Lifestyle Family Fitness, and The Fitness Company, Terry continues to inspire leaders with his proven expertise in growth, culture, and performance. Company Website: https://franvest.ca/our-team/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/terry_blachek/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-blachek-78431a174/ For more information about my services or if you just want to connect and have a chat, reach out at: https://dropinceo.com/contact/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bobby Steinbach, co-founder of legal marketing firm, MeanPug, shares why SEO isn't enough and how law firms can scale smarter with branding, AI, and omnichannel strategy.
If you live in Minnesota, you know there are two things that keep you going through the long winters: a good pair of boots, and a great cup of coffee. For years, that coffee often came from Caribou, where Jim's guest this week, Erin Newkirk, most recently served as Chief Brand & Marketing Officer, helping guide a beloved global coffeehouse with more than 850 locations across 11 countries. Erin left Caribou coffee shortly after we recorded this show to start her own training & coaching company.Erin's story stretches far beyond coffee. Her career spans Fortune 500s, startups, coaching, and everything in between, always with the same ambition: to build brands, businesses, and breakthroughs that spark movements people can feel. She began her career at the test-prep company Kaplan, earned her MBA from Indiana University's Kelley School of Business, and honed her brand chops at General Mills, shaping icons like Cheerios and Pillsbury. Then she leapt into entrepreneurship, founding Red Stamp, a mobile-first lifestyle brand that reimagined personal connection and scaled to millions before it was acquired. Today, Erin brings that same energy to her work as an advisor and board member. partnering with founders, executives, and mission-driven ventures including ModernWell, Omnia Fishing, and TurnSignl, an award-winning service providing 24/7 real-time legal assistance.Recorded in person at the Best Buy Studios in Minneapolis, here is Jim's conversation with the leader who believes in grounding herself each day—and helping others grow along the way.---This week's episode is brought to you by Best Buy Ads.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Marketing is undergoing a seismic shift as technology, consumer behavior, and leadership styles evolve. Michael Kassan, a trailblazer at the intersection of media, marketing, and innovation, has helped shape that transformation. He joins Inside the ICE House to share how modern leaders must adapt their thinking to stay ahead, build resilient brands, and navigate the complexities of a rapidly changing landscape. Kassan reflects on his journey, the future of marketing in an AI-driven world, and the leadership principles that continue to guide him through disruption and opportunity.
Scott Clary is a serial entrepreneur, brand strategist, and the creator and host of the top-ranked Success Story podcast, where he's interviewed some of the world's most influential entrepreneurs, leaders, and visionaries. With an impressive career advising startups and building global brands, Scott has become a go-to voice on growth, leadership, and the mindset required to win in today's competitive landscape. At the heart of Scott's work is a deep belief that success is far more than financial achievement — it's about ownership, purpose, and the relentless pursuit of meaningful goals. He shares practical strategies for building powerful personal brands, creating content that connects, and cultivating audiences that truly care. His insights have helped countless founders, creators, and business leaders not only grow their companies but also design lives that align with their values. Driven by an entrepreneurial obsession and a passion for storytelling, Scott is on a mission to empower others to take agency over their ambitions and turn bold ideas into lasting impact. Whether he's behind the mic, on stage, or advising high-growth businesses, Scott brings clarity, candor, and actionable wisdom to every conversation — inspiring people everywhere to define and achieve success on their own terms. Timestamps: 00:00:00 Cold Open 00:00:08 Title Sequence 00:00:28 Show Notes VO 00:01:13 Intro Into Interview 00:31:36 Insertion 00:32:58 Interview Resumes 01:08:16 Outro
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Wyatt Lonergan, a visionary investor at VanEck Ventures, as he shares his incredible journey of becoming a key player in Web3 and blockchain innovation. Wyatt's story is one of curiosity, resilience, and a passion for building the future of finance. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a crypto enthusiast, or simply curious about Web3, this episode is packed with insights on stablecoins, DeFi, tokenized assets, and venture capital.What You'll Learn:
In this podcast episode, we discuss how do you decide when to lead with data versus when to trust your team's creative instinct, how your brand can stand out on social media, how shopper expectations changed, and more. Listen to the discussion with Vice President of Content and guest host, Suzy Davidkhanian, Principal Analyst, Sky Canaves, Chief Content Officer at The Lead, Sonal Gandhi, and SVP of Marketing at Lulu's, Patrick Buchanan. To learn more about our research and get access to PRO+, go to EMARKETER.com Follow us on Instagram at: https://www.instagram.com/emarketer/ For sponsorship opportunities, contact us: advertising@emarketer.com For more information, visit: https://www.emarketer.com/advertise/ Have questions or just want to say hi? Drop us a line at podcast@emarketer.com For a transcript of this episode, click here: https://www.emarketer.com/content/podcast-building-brands-that-stand-world-that-never-turns-off-with-lulus-lead-reimagining-retail © 2025 EMARKETER Consumers skip ads but not rewards. Fetch drives performance with 12.5M+ monthly users and 11.5M+ receipts scanned daily, capturing 88% of household spend. Your brand becomes the reward earning real engagement, verified purchases, and lasting loyalty. Fetch: America's Rewards App. Where brands are the center of joy. Learn more at business.fetch.com.
Send us a textWhat does it take to build something that truly lasts? In this powerful episode, host Dionne Malush sits down with Bryan Smeltzer, the visionary strategist behind brands like Oakley, TaylorMade, Adidas, and K-Swiss. From his blue-collar beginnings to leading global business transformations, Brian shares how resilience, authenticity, and faith shaped his journey, and how those same values can ignite your own.Together, they explore what it really means to stay passionate through burnout, lead with vision through adversity, and build brands rooted in authenticity and purpose. Brian's story isn't just about business success; it's about staying grounded in faith, family, and the courage to keep seeing what others can't.If you've ever felt stuck, lost your spark, or wondered whether it's too late to start again, this conversation will remind you: it's never too late to become a visionary.Connect with Bryan here:Website: https://bryansmeltzer.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryansmeltzer/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bryansmeltzer33/Support the showConnect with Dionne Malush Instagram: @dionnerealtyonepgh LinkedIN: /in/dionnemalush Website: www.dionnemalush.com Facebook: /dmalush LinkTree: https://linktr.ee/dionnemalush
What if your business could heal, inspire, and transform just like a great medicine? In this soul-stirring episode of the Fusionary Health Podcast, Dr. Shivani Gupta is joined by Ryan Riley, co-founder of Cellcore and Fifth Hammer, who reveals how he turned his entrepreneurial journey into a mission of service, impact, and alignment.Ryan shares the transformational story of how India, Ayurveda, and herbal medicine shaped his founding of one of the most innovative gut health brands in the world. He opens up about sourcing mimosa pudica seed, partnering with India's Ministry of AYUSH, and co-creating Para 1 and Para 2 products rooted in ancient wisdom and backed by modern science.Together, Shivani and Ryan explore themes of servant leadership, pruning for purpose, building community, and the emotional toll of being a visionary founder. This is a conversation for anyone seeking to build a company or a life that truly serves and inspires.
OverviewHave you ever felt like you're navigating life's challenges alone, especially as a single mother? In this heartfelt episode, I sit down with Lailani Guzman, a multidisciplinary creator and solo mom, to explore her journey of self-discovery, faith, and creativity.Lailani opens up about her path to single motherhood, sharing the difficult decisions she made to break generational patterns and create a healthier environment for herself and her daughter. Her story is a testament to the strength and resilience that many solo moms possess.We discuss the struggles of asking for support and the importance of building a community as a single parent. Lailani's experiences highlight the courage it takes to overcome shame and reach out for help when needed.Faith and Healing: A Powerful CombinationLailani shares how faith has become her unwavering source of strength and guidance. She explains how her spiritual journey has intertwined with her healing process, offering insights into:The role of faith in overcoming life's challengesFinding gratitude in all situationsLearning to forgive and grow through difficult experiencesCreativity as a Tool for Self-Expression and HealingAs a brand strategist and visual artist, Lailani discusses how creativity has been a constant thread throughout her life. She introduces us to her inspiring "Paint and Praise" workshops, which combine art and spirituality to create a unique healing experience.Wisdom for Solo MomsLailani offers three powerful tips for solo moms navigating life's challenges:Invite God into every decisionDon't be afraid of changeBe the example you wish you hadThis conversation with Lailani Guzman is a reminder that you're not alone in your journey as a solo mom. It's an invitation to embrace faith, creativity, and community as tools for healing and growth.Are you ready to be inspired and find new ways to thrive as a single mother? Listen to this episode and discover how you can tap into your own strength and creativity to create a beautiful life for yourself and your children.Connect with Lailani: Threads | Substack Newsletter | Instagram=============Attend our next Solo Moms Connect Meetup. RSVP here.Join our Facebook group hereSubscribe to SoloMoms! Talk. Follow us on Instagram @solomomstalkhttps://solomomstalk.mysites.io/podcast-2-copy/breaking-cycles-and-building-brands-lailani-guzmans-story This podcast is hosted by Captivate, try it yourself for free. This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Podcorn - https://podcorn.com/privacy
Geoff Cook's career took off the night he met MoMA's CMO—and helped create the iconic MoMA QNS brand. Since then, he's shaped brands from MILK and NeueHouse to Times Talks, JFK Terminal 4, and the Prince Estate. Partner at Base, mentor at TechStars, and global culture expert, Geoff shares how bold branding can leave a lasting cultural impact. What You'll Learn in This Episode - How a single encounter can launch a career and define a creative trajectory - Why human connection is at the heart of every successful brand experience - The concept of “world-building” in branding and how it fosters community - How to balance AI as a tool without losing creative originality - Key considerations for branding early-stage companies and preserving cash Episode Chapters (00:00) Intro (00:33) Jeff Cook's career breakthrough at MoMA (02:10) Early lessons from DKNY and international branding (04:07) Culture-driven branding from Milk to global institutions (07:40) Translating cultural expertise to JFK Terminal 4 (10:09) World-building brands to foster human connection (12:19) AI in creative work: opportunities and guardrails (20:12) Mentoring early-stage companies and branding pitfalls (26:27) Brands that make Jeff smile About Geoff Cook Geoff Cook's career catapulted on the night he met MoMA's CMO at a Base party in Manhattan, where he discussed developing the institution's new branding for its temporary museum in Queens. The project, MoMA QNS, was the first in a string of iconic brands he has helped to create, including MILK, NeueHouse, JFK Terminal 4, Iconiq, The New York Times' Times Talks & Food Festival, the Prince Estate, and countless others. Geoff approaches branding with a sharp understanding of business strategy and a finger on the pulse of global culture (he speaks four languages and savors local flavor everywhere he travels). As a partner at Base, Geoff asks companies big questions and helps answer them with unexpected, visionary solutions. The result is very often a profound cultural impact. Geoff also puts his branding acumen to use as a mentor at renowned tech accelerator, TechStars, and serves as a board member at Sentral. What Brand Has Made Geoff Smile Recently? Geoff is impressed by On, a Swiss-based athletic brand. He admires how On builds a cohesive, coherent world through product design, store experiences, and creative campaigns that surprise and delight. The combination of Swiss precision and playful, culturally relevant marketing makes On a standout in his eyes. Resources & Links Connect with Geoff on LinkedIn. Check out the Base Design website and Instagram. Here's the Design Week article on AI we discussed. Listen & Support the Show Watch or listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon/Audible, TuneIn, and iHeart. Rate and review on Apple Podcasts and Spotify to help others find the show. Share this episode — email a friend or colleague this episode. Sign up for my free Story Strategies newsletter for branding and storytelling tips. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I'll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
This week, Mike steps “behind the scenes” with Graham Kuhn, the creative force behind Focus Films, whose life reads like a screenplay of transformation, grit, and passion. From the wrestling mats of small-town Wisconsin to the world's grand opera stages — and ultimately to the helm of his own film company — Graham's story proves that the path to success is rarely a straight line. When the pandemic hit days after launching his business, Graham faced what felt like the final curtain. Contracts vanished, plans unraveled — but instead of tapping out, he rewrote the script. Drawing on the resilience forged in wrestling and the discipline learned from decades on stage, he turned adversity into opportunity. Through community, mentorship, and a deep belief in the power of authentic storytelling, Graham brought Focus Films to life — and helped countless others tell stories that matter. Graham opens up about the fear of success, the magic that comes from genuine connection, and the courage it takes to stay true to yourself — even when the world is watching. From helping clients shine on camera to crafting stories that move hearts and minds, this conversation is all about transforming passion into purpose. IN THIS EPISODE: ➡️
JP links back up with two power players in the game — Gino, the mind behind The Gotti Brand, and Jordan from Blueprint Cannabis — for a round-two sit-down to catch up on what's new from coast to coast.Gino is gearing up to drop The Gotti Brand in New York while still keeping his West Coast operations moving, proving that real legacy can thrive on both ends of the map. Jordan, fresh off consulting gigs and traveling grows across the country, is back home in Sacramento, locking in at the Blueprint headquarters and dialing their next chapter of craft excellence.This one's all about building, evolving, and expanding — two brands that started with passion for the plant now playing on a national level without losing the culture that built them.⸻
In this episode of the Cash Rich Exit Podcast, Colleen O'Connell-Campbell welcomes Joanna Track, serial entrepreneur, strategist, and founder of Good Eggs & Co. Joanna has launched and exited multiple businesses - including Sweet Spot, eLuxe, and The Bullet - and now leads Good Eggs & Co., a consultancy focused on content and context marketing. Known for her candid, no-nonsense approach, Joanna shares what she's learned about building brands with staying power, navigating exits, and avoiding common pitfalls that entrepreneurs face. Key Highlights: Redefining success in an exit: why an exit doesn't always equal success, and how legacy plays a role. From Sweet Spot to The Bullet: Joanna's journey of launching and scaling digital-first businesses in Canada, often ahead of the curve. The capital gap for women entrepreneurs: reflections on raising millions in funding and the systemic challenges women still face. Don't build on rented land: Joanna's hard-won philosophy on creating assets you own (like email lists and websites) versus relying on platforms you don't control. Content with context: why brands need to serve before they sell, focus on the long game, and create authentic, relatable voices. Personal brand vs. business brand: why people buy from people, and how leaders can use thought leadership to strengthen both. Growth mindset: why Joanna shifted from saying she wanted to keep Good Eggs small, to embracing its rapid growth trajectory. Fun, frank advice: be yourself, be authentic, and test - because the biggest risk is never putting your ideas into the world. Whether you're scaling, selling, or starting fresh, Joanna's story offers lessons in resilience, ownership, and building a brand that thrives beyond you. If Joanna's insights sparked ideas for your own business or exit strategy, connect with host Colleen O'Connell-Campbell on LinkedIn or to schedule your complimentary Wealth Gap Analysis. *** The Cash Rich Exit Podcast is brought to you by O'Connell-Campbell Wealth Management at RBC Dominion Securities. All opinions expressed by the host, Colleen O'Connell-Campbell, and podcast guests are solely their own opinions and do not reflect the opinion of RBC Dominion Securities. This podcast is for informational purposes only before taking any action based on information in this podcast you should consult with a qualified professional. Colleen O'Connell-Campbell is a Wealth Advisor at RBC Dominion Securities, a member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund.
What if your next move isn't another location—it's owning a moment in your guest's life?Mark Rampolla built ZICO into a category and now backs founders with a $600M fund; his playbook is built for operators under pressure. We talk about the five-year reality of product-market fit, why velocity per store beats “more units,” and how owning a specific occasion (post-workout, post-shift, post-party) unlocks scale.Mark breaks down risk discipline—grow deep before wide—and what acquirers actually buy: a future customer and a missing occasion, not just a product.If you're tempted to expand because it feels like progress, this episode shows a sharper path: focus, proof, and traction that travels.To learn more, visit groundforcecapital.com ____________________________________________________________Free 5-Day Restaurant Marketing Masterclass – This is a live training where you'll learn the exact campaigns Josh has built and tested in real restaurants to attract new guests, increase visit frequency, and generate sales on demand. Save your spot at restaurantbusinessschool.comFull Comp is brought to you by Yelp for Restaurants: In July 2020, a few hundred employees formed Yelp for Restaurants. Our goal is to build tools that help restaurateurs do more with limited time.We have a lot more content coming your way! Be sure to check out our other content:Yelp for Restaurants PodcastsRestaurant expert videos & webinars
This week, I sat down with Suze Dowling, Chief Business Officer and Co-Founder of Pattern, for a conversation about what it really takes to build brands that last. Suze has spent more than a decade helping companies launch, scale, and connect with customers in meaningful ways, and today Pattern is a family of seven home-focused brands built around one mission: making everyday life more joyful.We cover entrepreneurship, brand strategy, and the real lessons learned from building in the DTC space. Suze shares how she and her co-founders went from running a world-class branding agency to realizing the hard truth that building an operating business is a whole different challenge. She opens up about their biggest early mistake — creating their first brand for themselves instead of their customers — and why “direct with consumer” is the only way to win.We also get into why a brand is like a human being, with depth, layers, and personality that evolves over time, and why so many companies still get this wrong. Suze explains how product quality, customer education, and thoughtful retention strategies go hand-in-hand with building a strong brand. And she doesn't shy away from the business side either, talking about margins, pricing, capital, and why most consumer founders should think twice before raising institutional funding.If you're building a consumer brand, leading a team, or just curious about how to connect with customers in ways that actually last, this episode is packed with insights you can use right away.Listen now for lessons on brand building, customer experience, and why empathy and clarity will always beat hype.
In this episode, he explains what changes when a CMO takes on the operator role, and why much of marketing fails to connect with real customers. From leading global brands to launching his own, Brian shares how clarity, strong execution, and customer focus drive real results. A practical look at what works—and what founders should stop wasting time on.
Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupIn this episode of the DTC Podcast, we sit down with Alex Schultz, the CMO and VP of Analytics at Meta, to unpack nearly two decades of hard-earned marketing insights from inside one of the most influential tech companies on the planet.From his scrappy beginnings as an affiliate marketer trying to pay for college, Alex rose through the ranks at Facebook—helping launch self-serve ads, custom audiences, and building the company's analytics function from the ground up.Now, as CMO, he shares how he thinks about brand vs. performance, why incrementality measurement is non-negotiable, and what it really took to lead the rebrand from Facebook to Meta in under seven months.In this episode, you'll learn:How affiliate thinking creates real marketersWhy starting with performance-driven urgency creates marketers who understand what actually drives growthThe self-serve ad platform strategy that unlocked small business scaleAlex shares how linking product and marketing—from in-product CTAs to retargeting drop-offs—became Meta's growth engineWhy incrementality is the foundation of modern marketingForget last-click—true marketers use lift tests, holdouts, and on/off testing to see what really worksHow to build brands on performance platformsYes, you can build a brand on Meta—but only if you measure it rightThe inside story of the Meta rebrandIncluding a midnight WhatsApp from Zuckerberg and a literal house fireWhy creative strategy—not media buying—is the future in an AI worldAgencies will evolve, but those who control the data + creative inputs will control outcomesHow Alex is using creator marketing, email, and retargeting to market his new book, Click HereThe modern playbook Meta uses… now applied to booksVisit Hachette Book Group for information on how to purchase Click Here: The Art and Science of Digital Marketing and Advertising, out on October 7th. And you can check out an audio book version on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hsoMSkbpEboe0M4aGqNgZTimestamps00:00 - From Affiliate Marketer to CMO of Meta02:00 - Building Facebook's Growth Engine and Analytics Team06:00 - Lessons From the Affiliate Mindset08:00 - Launching Self-Serve Ads and the First Custom Audiences11:00 - Rebranding Facebook to Meta: Inside the Strategy15:00 - Building Brands with Direct Response vs. Top-of-Funnel Marketing18:00 - How WhatsApp's Brand Story Shifted Perception20:00 - Why Alex Wrote "Click Here" and Its Core Principles24:00 - The Future of Agencies and AI in Advertising28:00 - Marketing the Book Using Meta StrategiesHashtags#DTCpodcast #Meta #AlexSchultz #DigitalMarketing #BrandStrategy #AffiliateMarketing #Rebranding #MarketingBook #GrowthMarketing #AdvertisingStrategy #MarketingTips #SocialMediaMarketing #BusinessGrowth #CMOInsights #MarketingPodcast Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupAdvertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertiseWork with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouseFollow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletterWatch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video
In this episode of Building A Better Brand®, host Tony Triumph sits down with Mariam Asmar, a global brand and marketing leader whose career spans advertising, tech, and creative innovation. From her early PR days at Time Warner to shaping campaigns for legacy giants like Coca-Cola and L'Oréal, to now driving creative strategy at Braze, Mariam brings a rare vantage point on the intersection of creativity, community, and technology. Together, they unpack the hype and reality of Cannes Lions, which they call “the Oscars of advertising,” and explore how tech has redefined brand building, customer engagement, and creative accountability.The conversation reveals how Mariam is bridging the gap between traditional brand playbooks and performance-driven tech, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and storytelling. You'll get an inside look at Braze's Creative Innovation Lab and its role in helping brands merge creative strategy with data to build genuine, lasting relationships with their customers. Whether you're a founder, operator, or modern marketer, this is a must-listen for anyone curious about the future of brand building and the evolving role of brand marketing in 2025.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Cannes Lions: An Insider's Look: A deep dive into the "Oscars of advertising" and a juror's unique perspective on judging the world's most innovative brand campaigns.Bridging the Brand-Tech Gap: Insights on how to connect traditional brand playbooks with data-driven tech strategies to drive real growth and creative effectiveness.Braze's Creative Innovation Lab: A look inside the team's mission to help Fortune 500 brands and startups alike stay ahead of the curve by pushing the boundaries of creativity.Timeless Principles for Early-Stage Brands: Mariam's actionable advice for founders building from scratch and why brand differentiation is your biggest advantage when budgets are small.Brand in the Age of AI: Mariam's take on how new technology and shifting consumer expectations are forcing brand marketing to evolve from a separate department to a core, integrated strategic function.A Colorful Career: From McCann to Braze: A look at Mariam's diverse and storied career path and how she connected her past experiences to her current role in tech.Top 3-5 tips to build a better brand?: Mariam's actionable insights on what it takes to create a successful, enduring brand.Connect with Braze on their Instagram, LinkedIn, and website here. Connect with Tony Triumph: @tonytriumphofficial (IG), LinkedIn
Big brands don't narrow cast. They want to be known everywhere their category can be part of your life. And there's a reason for that strategic choice.This week, Elena, Angela, and Rob are joined by research professor Jenni Romaniuk from the Ehrenberg-Bass Institute for Marketing Science. Jenni breaks down why consistent distinctive assets matter more than aesthetics, how mental availability drives brand growth, and why targeting light buyers is critical for long-term success. Plus, learn why differentiation might not be as important as you think for building a successful brand.Topics covered: [04:00] Origin of distinctive assets research and why good branding matters[12:00] When brands should change or evolve their distinctive assets[19:00] What category entry points are and why they drive mental availability[23:00] How to prioritize category entry points for maximum impact[28:00] Why light buyers are essential for risk mitigation and growth[33:00] Why differentiation might not be necessary for brand success To learn more, visit marketingarchitects.com/podcast or subscribe to our newsletter at marketingarchitects.com/newsletter. Resources: 2022 Contagious Article: https://www.contagious.com/iq/article/jenni-romaniuk-on-distinctive-assetsJenni Romaniuk's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenni-romaniuk-2746884/?originalSubdomain=au Get more research-backed marketing strategies by subscribing to The Marketing Architects on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts.
What if your brand could sell before the customer even knows they need you?This week on The Unified Brand Podcast, we're joined by Ryan Chute, strategic marketing expert and partner at Wizard of Ads, who breaks down the psychology, neuroscience, and storytelling behind high-converting brands.Ryan shares how his experience in high-friction, toxic sales environments led him to uncover the secrets of motivation, identity, and authentic branding—and how you can apply these to grow faster and more profitably.We dive deep into:Why culture = marketing, and how employee experience shapes customer loyaltyThe three major friction points blocking growth (and how to remove them)How to decode customer motivation through identity and purposeThe truth about lead generation vs. lead captureWhy distinctiveness beats being different, and how to craft a “pink door” brandThe ROI of removing friction in every part of your customer journeyIf you're a founder, marketer, or service-based business looking to stand out and scale with purpose—this episode is essential listening.
The Will To Change: Uncovering True Stories of Diversity & Inclusion
Step into a candid conversation with Kara Richardson Whitely as she explores the realities of weight stigma, the buying power of plus size consumers, and why brands miss out when they fail to embrace all bodies. Kara shares her powerful story of resilience as a plus size adventurer and advocate, offering insights into how businesses can heal the customer journey and create meaningful inclusion. From the retail industry's blind spots to cultural moments like the Cardi B controversy, this episode challenges assumptions and shows why body diversity is both a moral imperative and a business necessity.
Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupIn this episode of the DTC Podcast, we sit down with Alex Schultz, the CMO and VP of Analytics at Meta, to unpack nearly two decades of hard-earned marketing insights from inside one of the most influential tech companies on the planet.From his scrappy beginnings as an affiliate marketer trying to pay for college, Alex rose through the ranks at Facebook—helping launch self-serve ads, custom audiences, and building the company's analytics function from the ground up.Now, as CMO, he shares how he thinks about brand vs. performance, why incrementality measurement is non-negotiable, and what it really took to lead the rebrand from Facebook to Meta in under seven months.In this episode, you'll learn:How affiliate thinking creates real marketersWhy starting with performance-driven urgency creates marketers who understand what actually drives growthThe self-serve ad platform strategy that unlocked small business scaleAlex shares how linking product and marketing—from in-product CTAs to retargeting drop-offs—became Meta's growth engineWhy incrementality is the foundation of modern marketingForget last-click—true marketers use lift tests, holdouts, and on/off testing to see what really worksHow to build brands on performance platformsYes, you can build a brand on Meta—but only if you measure it rightThe inside story of the Meta rebrandIncluding a midnight WhatsApp from Zuckerberg and a literal house fireWhy creative strategy—not media buying—is the future in an AI worldAgencies will evolve, but those who control the data + creative inputs will control outcomesHow Alex is using creator marketing, email, and retargeting to market his new book, Click HereThe modern playbook Meta uses… now applied to booksVisit Hachette Book Group for information on how to purchase Click Here: The Art and Science of Digital Marketing and Advertising, out on October 7th. And you can check out an audio book version on Spotify here: https://open.spotify.com/show/5hsoMSkbpEboe0M4aGqNgZTimestamps00:00 - From Affiliate Marketer to CMO of Meta02:00 - Building Facebook's Growth Engine and Analytics Team06:00 - Lessons From the Affiliate Mindset08:00 - Launching Self-Serve Ads and the First Custom Audiences11:00 - Rebranding Facebook to Meta: Inside the Strategy15:00 - Building Brands with Direct Response vs. Top-of-Funnel Marketing18:00 - How WhatsApp's Brand Story Shifted Perception20:00 - Why Alex Wrote "Click Here" and Its Core Principles24:00 - The Future of Agencies and AI in Advertising28:00 - Marketing the Book Using Meta StrategiesHashtags#DTCpodcast #Meta #AlexSchultz #DigitalMarketing #BrandStrategy #AffiliateMarketing #Rebranding #MarketingBook #GrowthMarketing #AdvertisingStrategy #MarketingTips #SocialMediaMarketing #BusinessGrowth #CMOInsights #MarketingPodcast Subscribe to DTC Newsletter - https://dtcnews.link/signupAdvertise on DTC - https://dtcnews.link/advertiseWork with Pilothouse - https://dtcnews.link/pilothouseFollow us on Instagram & Twitter - @dtcnewsletterWatch this interview on YouTube - https://dtcnews.link/video
In this episode of More or Less, Brit Morin and Dave Morin sit down with legendary VC Tony Conrad (True Ventures) for a candid conversation on the state of venture capital, the real impact of AI, the death of social media, and why non-attribution and EQ matter more than ever.Chapters:01:30 – The Power (and Rarity) of Non-Attribution in Venture 04:00 – Building Culture After the Dot-Com Crash 06:00 – Why We Don't Do This for the Money 08:30 – EQ vs IQ: The Human Side of Venture Capital 11:00 – The Wildfire Story: When VCs Show Up as Humans 16:50 – The Best GPs & Firms: Inspiration from Legacy and Newcomers 22:30 – Space Tech Is Real Venture Capital (Not Just AI) 28:10 – Venture Is a Contact Sport: Lessons from Ron Conway 30:40 – AI Hype: Is There Any Money Left for Startups? 40:00 – Manipulation, Social Media, and the Rise of AEO 49:30 – Building Brands in the Age of AI (and Why We Paused Consumer) 55:00 – The Dangers of AI Hype and Overfunding 57:00 – Why Contrarian Investing Can Wait—Focus on AI Now 1:04:00 – Pop Culture Corner: Taylor Swift, Branding, and First Concerts We're also on ↓X: https://twitter.com/moreorlesspodInstagram: https://instagram.com/moreorlessSpotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/moreorlesspodConnect with us here:1) Sam Lessin: https://x.com/lessin2) Dave Morin: https://x.com/davemorin3) Jessica Lessin: https://x.com/Jessicalessin4) Brit Morin: https://x.com/brit
This week, we're wrapping up the summer with the final episode recorded in the south of France at the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity. Captured at Chez Vayner, this roundtable brings together three powerhouse leaders to explore how trust, courage, and community are driving the next wave of brand growth—and why the return of creative simplicity may be the key to long-term success.Joining Jim is...Jackie Jantos, President & Chief Marketing Officer of Hinge. Leading the dating app “designed to be deleted,” Jackie is redefining intentional connections for Gen Z and beyond. With past leadership roles at Coca-Cola and Spotify, she shares her insights on elevating young voices and keeping a brand true to its purpose.Lesley Scofield, Founder of Be LOVE. At her newly launched electrolyte beverage brand, Lesley is building around values of joy, connection, and community. Inspired by her own journey of growth and resilience, she's on a mission to spark meaningful real-world experiences.Gael De Talhouët, Chief Marketing & Digital Officer at Essity. A two-time Cannes alum, Gael has led groundbreaking work in feminine care and hygiene, including being the first to show red blood on TV. He credits consumer empathy, agency partnerships, and trust in creative teams as the foundation for bold, industry-shaping campaigns.Together, Jim and these leaders share a candid discussion on building brands that matter—across dating, wellness, and hygiene—showing how courage and conviction can cut through complexity and deliver lasting impact.---This week's episode is brought to you by Deloitte.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
What's the secret to building a real brand in freight? Authentic content, smart use of technology, or simply showing up every day? I'm excited to feature the man behind SPI Logistics' branding, RJ Finnegan! RJ shared the intersection of sales and marketing in our industry and how SPI has adapted its 45+ years of experience to modern branding strategies. We break down why short-form content outperforms long-form, how authenticity beats generic “great service” messaging, the importance of consistency, and leveraging LinkedIn for B2B freight networking. This conversation is all about practical branding, long-term strategy, and creating meaningful content that drives real business impact in the transportation industry! Connect with RJ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rjfinnegan/ / https://www.linkedin.com/company/spilogistics/
Character branding is more than costumes and catchy taglines — it's about building a brand that emotionally resonates, tells a meaningful story, and makes your audience feel something real. In this powerful episode, Alexis Boyett shares her journey from being a professional princess to becoming a global coach for creatives, helping brands unlock their voice through play, storytelling, and emotional connection.If you're a business owner, content creator, or coach searching for how to build a brand that connects emotionally, this conversation is for you.Alexis breaks down how her work in character development in business branding gives leaders and entrepreneurs the ability to embody their mission — not just market it. With years of experience helping others create impactful, story-driven brands, she helps clients use brand psychology and corporate storytelling to build credibility, authenticity, and trust — all while staying playful and true to themselves.
What does it really take to leave the corporate world behind and build a thriving business from scratch? In this episode of Wickedly Smart Women, host Anjel B. Hartwell welcomes Bashak Ilhan, who has founded five startups, achieved two successful exits, and now leads a global consultancy. From selling childhood toys to landing a $3 million investment over coffee, this episode reveals the mindset, strategies, and resilience needed to bring bold visions to life. Listeners will discover why sales are at the heart of any business, how to immerse themselves fully in their dreams, and why knowing when to delegate is essential for both success and wellbeing. This is a must-listen for women ready to step into entrepreneurship with confidence, clarity, and courage. What You Will Learn: Why early entrepreneurial experiences often shape lifelong business instincts. How transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship requires courage and vision. The importance of selling skills and vision casting in building a business. Why doing deep research and immersion before launching a venture can create a strong foundation. The value of building for the audience rather than personal taste. How to navigate challenges that arise in scaling and sustaining a startup. Why timing matters in choosing to exit a business. The role of branding, positioning, and strategy in securing investment and growth. How to innovate during crises and adapt to market needs. Why receiving too much funding early on can be more dangerous than not having enough. How financial constraints can fuel creativity and build stronger foundations. The importance of self-awareness and knowing when to seek a co-founder or partner. Why delegating effectively is critical to long-term success and personal well-being. How to redefine success away from busyness and toward balance and impact. Connect with Bashak Ilhan Road Branding Connect with Anjel B. Hartwell Wickedly Smart Women Wickedly Smart Women on X Wickedly Smart Women on Instagram Wickedly Smart Women Facebook Community Wickedly Smart Women Store on TeePublic Wickedly Smart Women: Trusting Intuition, Taking Action, Transforming Worlds by Anjel B. Hartwell Listener Line (540) 402-0043 Ext. 4343 Email listeners@wickedlysmartwomen.com
In this episode of The Ross Simmonds Show, Ross sits down with Brayden Young, co-founder & CEO of Slash Experts and original co-founder of Sendoso, to break down what it takes to cut through the noise in B2B sales and marketing. Brayden reflects on his entrepreneurial journey, the evolution of go-to-market strategies for 2025 and beyond, and how AI is reshaping the landscape for marketers, founders, and sales teams. They dive into personal philosophies, balancing family with drive, using strategic gifting as a growth lever, and how connecting customers with prospects is transforming the sales cycle. If you're in the trenches of building or scaling a company, this episode is packed with invaluable lessons. Key Takeaways and Insights: 1. Human conversations > traditional sales decks: Connecting real customers with prospects accelerates trust and conversions. 2. Strategic gifting is about thoughtful timing, not splashy spend. Think: handwritten notes, trigger-based outreach, and lifecycle communications. 3. Reviews are great, but community-driven insights and live interactions are the future of software buying. 4. AI is shifting go-to-market: fewer people, more productivity. Understanding how to use AI is now table stakes. 5. Success is relative: It's not just revenue — it's freedom, fulfillment, and building something that lasts 6. Brayden's Personal Frameworks “Don't build in a silo” — Always validate with customers before building product. “Three People Rule” — The only people he calls for big advice: wife, mom, co-founder. “Suck It Up or Go for a Walk” — His motivational speeches with his wife. First-time employee comp tip: Pick a high milestone and negotiate for equity or secondaries if you hit it. Resources & Tools:
In this episode: an in-depth conversation between Mosh and Sammi Cohen (@sammicohentalks), the creator of Social Currency — a newsletter and podcast that explores how the internet is reshaping our lives and our spending habits.In this conversation, you'll get a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the creator economy, how brands are thinking about creators, and the future of content on social media platforms. Sammi and Mosh discuss their overlapping journeys—transitioning from large legacy companies (Mosh at CBS, Sammi at Amazon) into independent brands built on social media. We also get Sammi's take on recent business headlines like Hailey Bieber's billion-dollar makeup brand deal and the financial troubles at Saks Fifth Avenue.The daily news will be back tomorrow! In the meantime, you can follow Mosh's travels to Japan on the Mo News Premium Instagram page. Mosheh Oinounou (@mosheh) is an Emmy and Murrow award-winning journalist. He has 20 years of experience at networks including Fox News, Bloomberg Television and CBS News, where he was the executive producer of the CBS Evening News and launched the network's 24 hour news channel. He founded the @mosheh Instagram news account in 2020 and the Mo News podcast and newsletter in 2022.
The Say YES Sisterhood is your invitation to a vibrant community of women who are embracing their dreams, reclaiming their joy, and living life with intention. Join today!Welcome to the Say YES to Yourself! Podcast—the show for midlife women, empty nesters, and those navigating major life transitions like divorce, reinvention, and rediscovery. If you're ready to shed old roles and finally put yourself first, you're in the right place.In this episode, Wendy speaks with Siew Ting Foo, former Chief Marketing Officer turned author, podcaster, and soulful brand strategist. After 25 years leading global marketing at brands like Unilever, Mars, Diageo, and HP, Siew is now guiding leaders in building brands guided by soul, not just strategy.They explore: Why reinvention requires presence How to align personal purpose with professional evolution The five pillars of a brand with soulThis is your reminder that the most powerful brand you'll ever build begins with presence, not pressure.Connect with Siew:Get her book: Building Brands with SoulHer Podcast: Leadership With SoulHer Website: SoulForProfit.orgLinkedIn________________________________________________________________________________________ Say YES to joining Wendy for her: Say YES Sisterhood PWH Farm StaysPWH Curated France TripsInstagram: @phineaswrighthouseFacebook: Phineas Wright HouseWebsite: Phineas Wright HousePodcast Production By Shannon Warner of Resonant Collective Want to start your own podcast? Let's chat! If this episode resonated, follow Say YES to Yourself! and leave a 5-star review—it helps more women in midlife discover the tools, stories, and community that make saying YES not only possible, but powerful.
As we kick off August, prepare to dive deep into the digital revolution with a true pioneer! We're thrilled to host Eric Cook, your quintessential "recovering banker" turned award-winning digital advocate and entrepreneur. After a successful 15-year career in community banking, Eric made the bold leap in 2007, founding WSI Digital – now recognized as the 2024 WSI Agency of the Year and 2024 International Franchise Association Franchisee of the Year. Eric isn't just a digital enthusiast; he's co-authored three best-selling "Digital Minds" books and is reshaping how industries, especially banking, connect and engage online.Eric's unique journey offers unparalleled insights into navigating digital disruption and embracing emerging technologies like AI. Through WSI, he empowers community banks nationwide to achieve digital mastery, social media savvy, and an unbeatable online presence. Beyond client work, his passion for fostering growth shines through TheLinkedBanker.com, an exclusive mastermind hub where banking pros refine their digital skills and personal branding. As a faculty member at leading banking schools, Eric is actively shaping the future of finance, one digital strategy at a time.In this powerful episode, Eric will share real-world strategies and practical tips on:His remarkable transition from a traditional banker to an award-winning digital agency founder.Overcoming common challenges for established industries adopting digital marketing strategies.How to build authentic online connections and master personal branding.The transformative role of AI in the future of community banking, and how to leverage these opportunities.Practical advice for entrepreneurs in any industry hesitant about fully embracing digital marketing and new technologies.Whether you're looking to disrupt a traditional market, enhance your brand's digital footprint, or confidently leverage AI for growth, Eric's blend of expertise, engaging storytelling, and entrepreneurial spirit makes this a truly unmissable conversation for visionary leaders across all sectors.Support the showThank you for tuning in! Be sure to subscribe to stay current with our episodes. We want to feature you! Let us know about an episode you love by emailing PodcastsByLanci@gmail.com Want the episode freebie or have a question for our guest or Vincent? Interested in becoming a guest or show partner? Email us.Show Partners:Coming Alive Podcast Production: www.comingalivepodcastproduction.comJohn Ford's Empathy Card Set and App: https://www.empathyset.com/ Music Credits: Copyright Free Music from Adventure by MusicbyAden.
Brand building isn't just about flashy campaigns, it's about tying every effort back to revenue. In this episode of Marketing Mindset, I sit down with Katie Cabanas, a consultant who's helped major organizations (including some names you'll instantly recognize) craft brands that customers trust and remember. Katie breaks down how to build a brand that actually moves the bottom line, whether you're running a global company, a local nonprofit, or just starting out.Featuring:Why understanding your customer is the foundation of brand successHow hyper‑local campaigns can outperform massive ad buysUsing quick, simple market intel to shape messagingTurning bold ideas into action (and letting data guide you) If you want practical, revenue‑driven steps to make your brand stronger in 2025, this episode is packed with insight.