Podcasts about building brands

In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Stefan Kovačević, Global Retail Media and Digital Shelf Lead at Nestlé, about how AI is changing the way consumers discover, evaluate, and purchase products. As AI becomes a more active participant in the path to purchase, Stefan explores what this shift means for brands and why marketers need to rethink how they build trust and differentiation.Stefan introduces the concepts of "human equity" and "machine equity," arguing that future brand success will depend on winning trust from both people and AI. He discusses the growing role of operational excellence and why emotional connections may become even more valuable as purchasing becomes increasingly automated.Key takeawaysThe future of brand equity will depend on winning with both consumers and AI-driven recommendation systems.Operational excellence is no longer just a supply chain concern; it increasingly influences brand perception and performance.As more routine purchases become automated, emotional connections may become a key differentiator for brands. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Deb Coviello sits down with Shaun Grove, CEO of Stride Fitness and seasoned fitness franchising executive. Shaun's career path is anything but conventional — from playing college and professional football, to practicing law, to becoming an FBI agent, to scaling Club Pilates from 11 locations to 150+ under Exponential Fitness. He shares what it really takes to build a franchise system that lasts, why the "grow fast or die slow" mindset can be dangerous, and why he believes the future of fitness lies at the intersection of cardio, strength training, and recovery — all under one roof. Whether you're a C-suite leader, an aspiring entrepreneur, or a fitness enthusiast, this episode is packed with hard-won wisdom about leadership, systems, and building something that truly scales. Episode Highlights: 9:01 — Acquiring Stride Fitness and Leading Through a Messy Transition Shaun describes how he took over Stride Fitness, which had 17 struggling locations, and gave franchisees a transparent choice: evolve, go independent, or exit. His willingness to help owners on their terms — working with landlords and lenders — set the tone for the kind of leader he is and the culture he was building. 11:47 — Why a Law Degree Makes You a Better Leader (In Any Field) Shaun reflects on how the critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills developed in law school have been invaluable across every role he's held — from litigator to FBI agent to franchise CEO. A reminder that foundational skills transfer far beyond the career path you started on. 17:58 — The Biggest Lesson in Franchising: You're in the Royalty Business Shaun delivers one of the most important insights in franchising: your success as a franchisor is entirely tied to the success of your franchisees. Selling territories is not the goal — getting those locations open, profitable, and sustainable is. This mindset shift is what helped Club Pilates grow responsibly and predictably. 25:38 — The Future of Fitness: Cardio + Strength + Recovery in One Place Shaun explains the vision behind the redesigned Stride Fitness model — a 2,000–2,800 sq ft boutique studio blending cardio, strength training, and recovery (massage chairs, compression therapy, red light therapy, and myofascial release) into a single membership. He argues that strength training is the missing piece in most fitness routines, especially for longevity. Shaun Grove is the CEO of STRIDE Fitness, a boutique studio concept blending cardio, strength, and recovery under one roof. A former attorney and FBI agent turned fitness franchising executive, Shaun previously served as President of Club Pilates — growing it from 11 locations to 700+ worldwide — before acquiring and redesigning STRIDE with a bold new vision for the future of fitness. Connect with Shaun:https://www.linkedin.com/company/stride-franchisehttps://www.instagram.com/stridefitness_huntingtonbeach/ 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.

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Andrew sits down with Ben Gibson, General Manager at Mark Anthony Brands Australia, to unpack a career that's anything but linear.Ben shares how he went from a traditional accounting start to partnering with sales teams, stepping backwards into field sales to accelerate his growth, and eventually leading national accounts before diving into the entrepreneurial world with VOC Beverages and launching his own seltzer brand.They explore the power of breadth over hierarchy, why taking risks and side steps can fast-track your career, and how hands-on experience across finance, sales, supply chain, and brand building prepared Ben to launch and lead a scaling business in Australia.Ben also takes us behind the scenes of building Mark Anthony Brands locally — from setting up the foundations (licenses, teams, systems) to now driving growth, innovation, and long-term market ambition in the RTD category.If you're looking to move into leadership, start your own thing, or break out of a “cookie-cutter” career path, this episode is packed with practical insights on how to get there.

A ₹30 Cr pickle brand built from traditional recipes… now aiming for ₹500 Cr. But can a digital-first FMCG brand scale in India without going offline? In this episode, Niharika Bhargava (CEO, The Little Farm) and Aditya Bhargava (COO, The Little Farm) join Shantanu Deshpande (Founder & CEO, Bombay Shaving Company), along with Arjun Purkayastha (SVP & Managing Director, Greater China and North Asia, Reckitt), for a sharp conversation on building and scaling a modern food brand in India. Little Farm started by reviving family recipes and selling at farmers' markets, before moving to D2C during COVID. Today, the brand has scaled to ~₹30 Cr ARR, with 70% of its revenue driven by quick commerce, selling over 70,000 jars every month. But growth brings harder questions: What does it really take to scale from ₹30 Cr to ₹200 Cr and eventually ₹500 Cr in a highly competitive, unorganised category? From distribution strategy and channel mix to inventory planning and product expansion, this episode breaks down the real decisions founders face while scaling a consumer brand in India. Problems we solve in this episode: • When is the right time for a young brand to enter offline retail, and does discovery still happen there? • How should founders move from manual inventory planning to a scalable forecasting system while staying cash-efficient? • When should a brand deepen its core category vs expand into new SKUs or adjacent products to drive growth? If you're building a D2C or FMCG brand, this episode offers a practical look at how modern brands are scaling today, and where most founders get it wrong. Navigate your way through these chapters: 00:00 Coming up 01:31 Introduction 02:39 How a Dadi's Recipe Became Little Farms 05:22 The Journey of Scaling Little Farms 07:50 1st Question: When Is the Right Time to Enter Retail? 14:19 The Three Levers That Drive FMCG Growth 33:07 2nd Question: How to Build a Scalable Inventory System 42:00 3rd Question: When to Expand vs Deepen Your Core Category 46:33 The ‘Be Big, Be Fast, Be Bold' Approach to SKUs 01:01:17 Why Nostalgia Works in Building Brands 01:04:56 Closing Thoughts

This week's episode is a special one  co-host Lynsey is joined by her old friend and former London College of Fashion classmate, Jodie Blake, now CMO at Manolo Blahnik. What starts as a nostalgic trip down memory lane (lemon poppy seed muffins from Starbucks, high heels to lectures, and getting the tube one stop instead of walking) quickly turns into one of the most insightful conversations we've had on the show.Jodie's career is a masterclass in building from the ground up. She started out as a press assistant at Office Shoes during its golden era of big collabs with Nike, Converse and Dr. Martens, before moving through a series of agencies - culminating in a decade at The Communication Store, where she worked across Versace, Max Mara, Acne Studios and more, doing 42 shows in a single fashion season. From there she went in-house at Self-Portrait to build on their communications function, before being headhunted to join Manolo Blahnik as Head of Communications - a role that evolved into her appointment as CMO almost two and a half years ago.We get into what it really means to market a luxury product today, how Manolo Blahnik has spent 22 years fighting to reclaim their trademark in China (spoiler: they won - one of only two cases ever, alongside Michael Jordan), the story behind the Birkenstock collab that sold out in 12 hours, the upcoming Balenciaga collaboration, and why being headline sponsor of the V&A's Marie Antoinette exhibition felt like the brand's most natural home.Jodie also shares what it was like to move from agency to in-house, the realities of stepping into a leadership role, and why working closely with buyers and the commercial team is central to everything her team does.3 Key Takeaways:Stay true to your brand values - even when it's hard. Manolo Blahnik famously refused to make trainers despite enormous commercial pressure and buyer demand. Jodie explains how staying uncompromisingly true to your identity is what builds longevity - 56 years, fully privately owned, with Manolo still designing every single shoe. Chasing trends can dilute a brand to the point where customers no longer know what you stand for.Break down silos and ask questions beyond your remit. Whether you're in PR, buying, merchandising or logistics, understanding how other parts of the business work gives you a fuller picture - and makes you better at your own job. Jodie credits this curiosity as a key driver of her own career progression, from agency PR specialist to CMO. The "holy trinity" of communications, commercial and merchandising teams working in lockstep is something she views as non-negotiable.Make people feel something. In a time of economic uncertainty, consumers are more considered than ever about what they buy. The brands that win are those creating genuine emotional connections - through storytelling, community, experiential moments, and products that carry real personal meaning. From a grandmother leaving envelopes of money for her granddaughters to buy Manolo Blahniks for their weddings, to a Birkenstock collab born out of shared values rather than commercial logSupport the showIf you've liked this episode please rate, follow, subscribe and share :) - and if you already have, thank you! It honestly really helps to keep this going and growing!Follow us @buyingandbeyond on Instagram Send us a DM or email hello@buyingandbeyond.co.ukWe also have a retail buyers membership @jointhebuyersclub  Find out more at www.jointhebuyersclub.co.ukIf you'd like to show a little more love, then head here to give us just a little bit *extra* and show us your support :) thank you!https://www.buzzsprout.com/2300060/support

Chris sits down with serial entrepreneur Roger Wade, the man behind one of the UK's original streetwear brands and the creator of the world's first pop-up mall.From getting fired three times before the age of 22 to building Box Fresh, launching Box Park, and now reshaping hospitality real estate with Box Kitchen, Roger shares the lessons, mistakes, and mindset that have shaped his journey.This is a conversation about brand, resilience, physical retail, and why most businesses are solving the wrong problems.Why getting fired early might be the best thing that ever happens to youThe real reason Box Fresh worked — and why Roger sold too cheapHow a simple idea turned into Box Park, the world's first pop-up mallWhy food became the hero and retail fell awayThe three reasons people go into business — and which one actually mattersWhy physical retail still beats online (and it's not even close)How Box Kitchen is changing the economics of hospitality developmentThe truth about raising money and why it's often overratedHow AI is levelling the playing field for creative entrepreneursEarly Life & MindsetFired from three jobs before 22Realisation: “If I don't employ myself, no one else will”A near-death experience at 16 that shaped his outlookBuilding Box FreshStarted in Greenwich and Camden marketsOne of the UK's original streetwear brandsLearned the hard way: brand is everythingCreating Box ParkBuilt from shipping containers with no blueprintFood operators became the unexpected winnersCommunity-first approach in Shoreditch and CroydonScaled to millions of loyal customers via the Black CardThe Business Frameworks3 reasons to be in business: Ego, Money, Legacy3 pillars of a brand: Product, Traffic, DeliveryRetail Reality CheckOnline conversion: 1–2%Physical retail: closer to 10%Why the high street still matters more than people thinkBox Kitchen & What's NextModular kitchens, bars, and hospitality infrastructureBuilt for developers and operatorsFar stronger returns than traditional real estateLessons from FailureThe eBay keynote disasterWhy raising money isn't success“Profit is sanity, turnover is vanity”“You make money by seeing something that's growing and growing with it.”“Raising loads of money means nothing. You've got debt.”“If you're not special to your customer, you won't exist.”“Profit is sanity, turnover is vanity.”“I learned my best lessons from my biggest mistakes.”This episode is powered by Lightspeed Commerce — the POS and payments platform built for modern hospitality.From tableside ordering to fully integrated front and back of house, Lightspeed helps operators deliver faster, smarter service when it matters most.If you want, I can tighten this into a more punchy, SEO-led version or a YouTube cut as well.

Eric Sheinkop is a Chicago-based entrepreneur, author, and tech innovator known for disrupting legacy industries through expert-driven content and music technology. He is currently the Co-Founder and CEO of The Desire Company.Launched in 2018 (originally as DesireList), The Desire Company is a content-as-a-service platform that replaces traditional "influencer marketing" with "expert marketing."Mission: The company builds trust in e-commerce by providing video reviews, how-tos, and classes from vetted professionals—such as NFL trainers, celebrity stylists, and master mechanics—rather than paid social media influencers.Scale: Under his leadership, the company has raised over $25 million and provides expert content for major retailers like Target, Walmart, and Best Buy.AI Focus: In 2026, Sheinkop has been a vocal advocate for the "humanity" of expertise, arguing that while AI can generate content, real human experience is the only way to maintain consumer trust in an increasingly automated world.Before his pivot to retail tech, Sheinkop revolutionized how brands use music.Music Licensing: He co-founded Music Dealers, which became the world's largest independent music licensing platform.Coca-Cola Partnership: He famously sold a stake in the company to The Coca-Cola Company, becoming their exclusive global music partner and generating millions in royalties for independent artists.Bestselling Author: He has written two books on the intersection of music and marketing: Building Brands with Music and the Amazon #1 bestseller Return of the Hustle. Both are used in university curricula at institutions like NYU and Princeton.Recognition: He has been featured in Billboard's “30 Under 30” and Crain's “Tech 50.” His work has earned multiple Cannes Lions and Clio Awards.Personal: Sheinkop often speaks about his experience with dyslexia, using his journey as a published author to inspire other entrepreneurs to view their differences as strategic advantages.Current Venture: The Desire CompanyPrevious Success: Music DealersAuthor & Accolades

We're talking about Practice! Today, we are thrilled to welcome Michelle Mattar to the program! She's the founder of Practice, a creative brand-building house launching brands from zero to existence. Before launching Practice, she worked at Red Antler and Ritual, blending strategy, design, and creative direction. At Practice, she's built a number of awesome, successful new-to-world brands like Allkinds, Glowbar, and Remedy. She's also trying to save our burning planet with the launch of a platform called Waste Not, which is a simple way to search an open-source database of sustainable suppliers. We had a great time with Michelle in the studio; we talk about her journey and starting Practice, kicking down doors and gaining experience in different disciplines, juicebox.com, her dad's candy factory, Practice's practice brands, their thorough approach to work, and more! Michelle is the best, enjoy!

Stephen Grootes talks to Jeremy Sampson, widely regarded as the “brandfather” of branding in South Africa, about a career that has helped shape some of the country’s most iconic brands over more than five decades. From founding the country’s first professional branding consultancy in 1973 to bringing global expertise into Africa through Interbrand. The Money Show is a podcast hosted by well-known journalist and radio presenter, Stephen Grootes. He explores the latest economic trends, business developments, investment opportunities, and personal finance strategies. Each episode features engaging conversations with top newsmakers, industry experts, financial advisors, entrepreneurs, and politicians, offering you thought-provoking insights to navigate the ever-changing financial landscape.    Thank you for listening to a podcast from The Money Show Listen live Primedia+ weekdays from 18:00 and 20:00 (SA Time) to The Money Show with Stephen Grootes broadcast on 702 https://buff.ly/gk3y0Kj and CapeTalk https://buff.ly/NnFM3Nk For more from the show, go to https://buff.ly/7QpH0jY or find all the catch-up podcasts here https://buff.ly/PlhvUVe Subscribe to The Money Show Daily Newsletter and the Weekly Business Wrap here https://buff.ly/v5mfetc The Money Show is brought to you by Absa     Follow us on social media   702 on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TalkRadio702 702 on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@talkradio702 702 on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/talkradio702/ 702 on X: https://x.com/CapeTalk 702 on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@radio702   CapeTalk on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CapeTalk CapeTalk on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@capetalk CapeTalk on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ CapeTalk on X: https://x.com/Radio702 CapeTalk on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CapeTalk567 See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome to The Profit Talk! In this show, we're going to help you explore strategies to help you maximize profits in your business while scaling and creating the lifestyle that you want as an entrepreneur. I am your host, Susanne Mariga! I'm a CPA, a Fractional CFO, and a Certified Profit First Professional Mastery Level providing tax strategies to 7 and 8-figure entrepreneurs. Let's dive into strategies to maximize profits in your business!  In this episode of The Profit Talk Show, host Susanne Mariga welcomes Laravetta Lofton, founder of L3 Agency and a master of mission-driven marketing and brand storytelling. Laravetta has built a career helping businesses—from seven-figure startups to nine-figure enterprises—create authentic, impactful brand stories that connect with audiences and drive measurable results.  Together, we tackle a critical topic—how to evolve your marketing strategy, build strong infrastructure, and leverage authentic storytelling to grow your business and make meaningful impact. This conversation is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs and marketing leaders looking to scale profitably while staying mission-driven.  What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✅ Career Evolution – How Laravetta shifted from journalism to marketing and launched her entrepreneurial journey in March 2000. ✅ Mission-Driven Brand Strategy – How L3 Agency focuses on brands that address human needs, including energy efficiency education reaching marginalized communities. ✅ Marketing Infrastructure Essentials – Why seven to nine figure businesses need professional bios, websites with data capture, newsletters, and consistent content systems before scaling. ✅ Agency as a Partner – How L3 Agency supports long-term client success through strategy sessions, media management, and continuous optimization. ✅ Leadership Philosophy – Defining personal success, persistence, making quick decisions, and "firing fast" to drive sustainable growth. ✅ Engagement Channels – How multi-channel communication, including newsletters, social media, and the podcast Black Businesses Matter, builds authentic connections.  Memorable Quotes:

Lauren Douglass, founder of Reverve, joins AdTechGod to unpack what modern B2B marketing actually needs to look like now. From her journey through Citibank, Teads, and Channel Factory to building a consultancy that stitches PR, social, and content into one strategy, Lauren shares why authenticity and point of view beat polished jargon every time. They dive into the real grind of content creation, how personal brands will drive B2B growth into 2026, and where AI helps without replacing the human connection that makes marketing work. Takeaways Lauren Douglass has a rich marketing background, having worked with major companies like Citibank and Channel Factory. Reverve was founded to simplify and enhance B2B marketing strategies, focusing on integration across channels. Content creation is more challenging than many realize, requiring organization and planning. The future of marketing will heavily rely on personal branding and authentic storytelling. Brands that embrace personality and authenticity will stand out in the competitive landscape. AI will play a significant role in content creation, but human connection remains vital. Consistency in content creation is key, even when results are not immediately visible. Embarrassment and vulnerability are part of the journey in building a personal brand. Companies should encourage their employees to share their unique stories and perspectives. The marketing landscape is shifting towards more human-centric approaches, moving away from corporate jargon. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Lauren Douglass and Her Journey 02:58 The Evolution of Marketing in B2B 05:38 Content Creation Challenges and Predictions for 2026 08:22 Finding Balance in Content Quality and Frequency 11:17 The Importance of Personal Branding 13:57 Navigating the Future of Advertising 16:46 Embracing Authenticity in Marketing 19:39 The Core of Effective Marketing 22:27 AI's Impact on Content Creation 24:03 The Passion Behind Marketing Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

My guest this week is Charlie Syme — a marketing strategist, founder of Pigface Marketing, and chair of the Common Ground Project, working at the intersection of marketing, creativity, and social impact. Charlie's work is grounded in a simple but powerful idea: marketing should be a force for good. Through Pigface Marketing, they partner with purpose-driven organisations, B Corps, and social enterprises to help them connect with the right audiences through authentic storytelling and clear strategy. Charlie is also deeply involved in the Common Ground Project — a regenerative farming social enterprise that grows, cooks, and shares food while creating pathways into hospitality for migrant women and building connection within the community. In this episode of Humans of Purpose, we explore what marketing looks like when it's driven by purpose rather than growth for growth's sake. Charlie challenges the idea of perpetual growth and instead advocates for finding your audience, building relationships, and using storytelling as a genuine tool for connection. We also discuss: why authenticity and conviction are essential in a content-saturated world how leaders can build trust and cut through by standing for something specific why CEOs should prioritise their personal profile and thought leadership and how the concept of stakeholder primacy — central to the B Corp movement — is reshaping the role of business in society. This is a thoughtful and practical conversation about how organisations can move beyond traditional CSR models and build deeper, more meaningful connections with the communities they serve.

On this episode of Mud Talk, we sit down with Courtney Simpson, the creative mind and owner behind Co-Creates, a digital marketing brand dedicated to helping businesses bring their vision to life online.Courtney shares her journey into entrepreneurship, how she built her brand, and the strategies businesses need to stand out in today's fast-moving digital world. From social media marketing to building authentic connections with your audience, this conversation dives deep into what it really takes to grow a brand in the digital age.If you're an entrepreneur, content creator, or someone looking to elevate your online presence, this is an episode you don't want to miss.

This week on Leaders of the West, Mentor March continues with Jillian Murphy, a sales strategist and former food and beverage distribution executive who helped bring brands like Boom Chicka Pop, PopCorners, and Health-Ade Kombucha to market. Jillian shares how she transitioned from corporate sales into building her own multi-seven-figure consulting business and what it really takes for products to stand out and scale in retail.We also talk about simplifying business growth, the importance of relationship capital, and why entrepreneurs need to focus on the right audience instead of trying to sell to everyone. From 90-day business sprints to believing in the product you sell, this conversation is full of practical insight for anyone building a brand or growing a business.Be sure to subscribe/follow the show so you never miss an episode!Connect with Jillian:Follow on Instagram @thejillianmurphyListen to her podcast, The Jillian Murphy Show Connect with Jessie:Follow on Instagram @ofthewest.co and @mrsjjarvFollow on Facebook @jobsofthewestCheck out the Of The West websiteResources & Links:Relationship Bank Account by Jeff FensterNodpodJoin The Directory Of The WestGet our FREE resource for Writing a Strong Job DescriptionGet our FREE resource for Making the Most of Your InternshipGet our FREE resource: 10 Resume Mistakes (and how to fix them)Get our FREE resource: How to Avoid the 7 Biggest Hiring Mistakes Employers MakeEmail us at hello@ofthewest.coSubscribe to Of The West's ⁠NewslettersList your jobs on ⁠Of The West

In this episode of Beyond Marketing, The Podcast, Maira Genovese, CEO and Founder of MG Empower, sits down with Bianca Franklin, Global Business Development - Lead for Music & Brand Experience at H&M, for a deeply human conversation at the intersection of music, marketing, leadership, and culture.Born and raised in San Francisco and shaped by a multicultural upbringing, Bianca shares how diversity, intuition, and emotional intelligence became the foundation of her career. From pitching herself to leading global marketing initiatives, her journey is defined by courage, persistence, and a belief in human connection.  Together, they explore how music became a powerful strategic tool to build authentic brands, especially in a post-pandemic world where audiences crave meaning, emotion, and belonging. Bianca reflects on why working with emerging and local artists creates a deeper cultural relevance and how building platforms allows brands to truly connect with people.This episode is a reminder that the future of marketing isn't just driven by technology or performance metrics, but by intuition, collaboration, and the power of human emotion. Because when brands feel human, connections become culture, and culture builds impact.

My guest today is Steve Cundari, co-founder and partner of Summit House, an award-winning venture studio that's quietly become a growth engine for some of the most recognizable brands on the planet. Steve is a builder in the purest sense. He's founded companies, exited companies, scaled platforms, and now leads a collective of specialized agencies that operate as one integrated ecosystem, blending strategy, creativity, and innovation into real business momentum.From entertainment and tech to sports, hospitality and consumer brands, his fingerprints are all over modern marketing at scale, and that is not hyperbole. Under Steve's leadership, Summit House has earned top industry honors including Clio's, Emmy's and Film Festival Awards while supporting brands like Spotify, DirecTV, Live Golf, Starbucks, Dick's Sporting Goods, the NBA, NFL, Meta, Nintendo and more!He's also an active advisor and investor in early-stage companies and venture funds, extending his obsession with building and scaling far beyond a single platform. 

Luke Lintz, a serial entrepreneur, founded his first e-commerce business at 16, achieving a 375% ROI in 90 days. Now CEO of HighKey Enterprises, a PR company specializing in digital branding, Luke is a prominent figure in social media and press relations, advocating for impactful entrepreneurship. Luke website: https://highkeyagency.com/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/lukelintz/   Show notes: https://successgrid.net/sg258/   If you love this show, please leave a review. Go to https://ratethispodcast.com/successgrid   Join AI Marketers Club: https://www.successgridacademy.com/3a30d0c6  

In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Michael Reda, Vice President of Omnichannel Marketing at The Marzetti Company, about driving growth in categories like refrigerated dressings and frozen bread. He shares how Marzetti approaches discovery in a digitally influenced world and how the brand reinforces storytelling with retail media and partnerships like Instacart to support basket building.They also discuss Marzetti's post-2020 eCommerce acceleration, including the foundational work behind scaling digital commerce, from improving content and search to strengthening ratings, reviews, and agency partnerships. Michael reflects on innovation, founder stories, and the career move he considers his bravest: stepping off the traditional brand path to build a digital role early on.Key TakeawaysNot being a “host food” requires a different approach to discovery and relevanceDigitally influenced sales require proactive storytelling before the storeRetail media and brand partnerships can drive basket-building impactE-commerce growth begins with strong content, search, and ratings fundamentals Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Warren Kornblum, a marketing leader and author of Notes from The Brand Stand discusses the importance of “share of heart" in building brands by engendering and building trust.  The former CMO of Toys R Us says that our need for trust, human connection and long-term growth outweighs the need for any short-term focus on efficiency and scale. In this fast-changing world of algorithms and data, he says, we must focus on human-centric leadership and emotional connections in building lasting brand loyalty.#marketing #business #leadership

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Ingrid Jacobs. A veteran enterprise leader, former HR executive, and Chief Growth Officer for The Revenue Retreat, a luxury boutique retreat for executive women who want to build profitable businesses without burnout. She and Rushion discuss her corporate background, her unique approach to customer integration, the challenges women face in entrepreneurship, pricing psychology, common business mistakes, age-related limiting beliefs, and the transformational design of her retreat program.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Ingrid Jacobs. A veteran enterprise leader, former HR executive, and Chief Growth Officer for The Revenue Retreat, a luxury boutique retreat for executive women who want to build profitable businesses without burnout. She and Rushion discuss her corporate background, her unique approach to customer integration, the challenges women face in entrepreneurship, pricing psychology, common business mistakes, age-related limiting beliefs, and the transformational design of her retreat program.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Ingrid Jacobs. A veteran enterprise leader, former HR executive, and Chief Growth Officer for The Revenue Retreat, a luxury boutique retreat for executive women who want to build profitable businesses without burnout. She and Rushion discuss her corporate background, her unique approach to customer integration, the challenges women face in entrepreneurship, pricing psychology, common business mistakes, age-related limiting beliefs, and the transformational design of her retreat program.

My guest today is Maria Del Rio, Chief Marketing Officer at DNA Vibe. She is a builder, a scaler, and a leader who's been in the arena for over 25 years, shaping brands, launching growth engines, and helping companies move from interesting idea to real market impact. At DNA Vibe, Maria is steering brand creative and growth as the company expands across wellness, performance, and health tech. Before that, she was CMO at Chromatic Technologies, and earlier in her career, she helped drive global brand powerhouses at Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, Kimberly-Clark, and Molson Coors. She's seen marketing at every altitude. From scrappy scale-ups to Fortune 500 giants, from early-stage chaos to enterprise precision. And she knows exactly what it takes to build brands that actually move people and generate revenue.

In this episode, host Minter Dial sits down with Warren Kornblum, an accomplished marketing leader, advisor, and now author of "Notes from the Brand Stand." Together, they dive deep into the world of brand strategy—discussing its evolution, the critical role of purpose, and the delicate balance between staying true to a brand's identity while adapting to a changing business landscape. You'll hear Warren Kornblum reflect on his journey from running his own ad agency in Toronto, to serving as Toys R Us' first global Chief Marketing Officer, to advising powerhouse brands and finally, to capturing his decades of insights in his new book. Throughout the conversation, Minter Dial and Warren Kornblum explore how brands create real emotional connections, why “purpose” is central to lasting success, and the challenges leaders face as their companies scale and come under new ownership structures. Packed with honest anecdotes—ranging from managing boardroom expectations to practical advice on aligning company culture—this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in authentic branding, customer experience, and the stories behind some of the world's most recognizable companies. You won't want to miss Warren Kornblum's wisdom on what it really means to take a stand as a brand, and how to keep brands trusted—and loved—for the long term.

Welcome to the What's Next! Podcast with Tiffani Bova.    This week I have the pleasure of welcoming from Australia, John Dwyer, also known as JD. He is a direct response customer attraction expert who thinks way outside the box. His marketing consultancy business is called the Institute of Wow and JD's mantra is that one's marketing needs to wow prospects. I'm sure you all understand exactly why I invited him to our show but dive into what you should be doing to grow and build a successful business in 2026.   THIS EPISODE IS PERFECT FOR…leaders, founders, and marketers who want to stand out in crowded markets and create real customer loyalty without relying on gimmicks or short-term tactics.   TODAY'S MAIN MESSAGE…most companies say they care about customers—but very few design their business around them. In this episode, we explore what actually separates brands people remember from those they forget. John challenges leaders to rethink how they show up for customers, arguing that sustainable success comes from intentional experiences, not louder marketing.   KEY TAKEAWAYS… How small, thoughtful actions can create disproportionate brand impact. The difference between being visible and being memorable. How leaders can embed customer-first thinking into everyday decisions.   WHAT I LOVE MOST…I loved John's reminder that meaningful differentiation doesn't come from copying what others are doing—it comes from truly understanding your customer and being willing to act on that insight. His perspective reinforces that growth isn't about chasing trends, but about committing to experiences that people actually care about.   Running Time: 30:47   Subscribe on iTunes     Find Tiffani Online: LinkedIn Facebook X    Find John Online: LinkedIn Website

For Episode 164, JP sits down with Doja Pak and Rusty, the Duke of Erb for a deep, no-nonsense conversation about what it really takes to build a cannabis brand that lasts.This episode dives straight into the importance of genetic IP — why owning your genetics matters, how it protects your brand, and why that foundation is becoming non-negotiable in today's cannabis industry. We talk about the power of being fully vertical, from breeding and cultivation all the way through to finished product, and how control at every step leads to consistency, quality, and long-term success.We also break down the first season of breeding and hunting at their new farm in Nevada City, where real work is happening. Rusty walks us through key breeding terminology like F1s, F2s, and beyond, and explains why they prefer hunting and breeding with regular seeds over feminized seeds when it comes to building true genetics.The conversation expands into where brands are headed as cannabis continues to go worldwide, and why the game has changed. Smoking for fun isn't really a thing anymore — now it's about R&D, quality control, and pushing the plant forward every single run.This episode is technical, honest, and rooted in experience — real talk for anyone serious about genetics, breeding, and building something with real weight.⸻

In this episode of The Art of Being Well, Dr. Will Cole sits down with iconic beauty founder Bobbi Brown to talk about reinvention, resilience, and redefining success on your own terms. Bobbi shares her journey from Midwest beginnings to building Bobbi Brown Cosmetics, selling to Estée Lauder, and eventually starting over with Jones Road. They explore confidence, wellness, burnout, bioindividuality, aging, and why listening to your body matters more than following rigid rules. For all links mentioned in this episode, visit http://www.drwillcole.com/podcastPlease note that this episode may contain paid endorsements and advertisements for products and services. Individuals on the show may have a direct or indirect financial interest in products or services referred to in this episode.Sponsors:Our Place is having their biggest sale of the year right now! Save up to 35% site wide now through January 12th. Head to from our place.com/WILLCOLE to see why more than a million people have made the switch to Our Place kitchenware. And with their 100-day risk-free trial, free shipping, and free returns, you can shop with total confidence.Shop the Our Place Holiday Sale right now, no code needed. Use code WILLCOLE at puori.com/WILLCOLE to get 32% off Puori Grass-fed Whey Protein when you start a subscription. In addition, you get a free shaker worth $25 on your first subscription order, which brings total savings to $49.You can get an additional 15% off their 90-day subscription Starter Kit by going to fatty15.com/WILLCOLE and using code WILLCOLE at checkout. Go to CLEARSTEM.com/WILLCOLE and use code WILLCOLE at check out for 15% off your first order. Produced by Dear Media.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

This week, Kyra sits down with Cat Holt, Founder and CEO of Coologee, Inc., for a powerful conversation about branding, storytelling, and building businesses that truly reflect who you are. As the first episode of the new year, this discussion sets the tone for clarity, confidence, and intentional growth. Cat brings deep insight into why so many entrepreneurs struggle to articulate their brand story and how creativity, strategy, and authenticity work together to create impact. She shares practical guidance for women who feel overwhelmed by branding, hesitant to promote themselves, or unsure how to turn their ideas into something meaningful and sustainable. In this episode: ✨ Why brand clarity starts with knowing your voice ✨ The key ingredients of an authentic and impactful brand ✨ How creativity fuels sustainable business growth ✨ Showing up confidently without feeling performative ✨ Where to begin when branding feels overwhelming If you are entering a new season of business, creativity, or leadership, this conversation offers clarity and encouragement to move from idea to impact with confidence. Connect with Cat: Website: coologee.com Instagram: @cat.coologee Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

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.

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.

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

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

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: ➡️

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, 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.