
Marketing Vanguard
371 episodes — Page 1 of 8
Mastering Human Centred-Marketing in an AI-Driven World ft. Lauren Weinberg of Supergoop!
How Keisha Taylor Starr Turned ION Into a Women's Sports Powerhouse in 24 Months
The Tech Titans Rewriting the Rules of Growth Marketing ft. the CMOs of Meta, Instacart, and Chime
Refusing to Become Irrelevant: Victoria Lozano on her Crayola Journey
Benoit Vatere's Case for Keeping Liquid Death Dangerous at Scale
The Art of Making Fintech Cool with Catherine Ferdon of Coinbase

S1 Ep 152How Atlanta Became the Hub of Marketing in the US ft. Alex Gonzalez
Atlanta, a paradise for CMOs with 70% of Fortune 500 companies, thousands of startups, and immense talent, is often underestimated. Live from Brandweek, Alex Gonzalez, Metro Atlanta Chamber's Chief Innovation and Marketing Officer, explains why Atlanta is a top marketing hub and how brand positioning can shape a city's economic future on this episode of Marketing Vanguard.Alex Gonzales is the Chief Innovation and Marketing Officer at the Metro Atlanta Chamber, leading efforts to brand Atlanta as a premier destination for talent, business and innovation. With a background spanning finance, business development and corporate marketing at industry leaders like GE, Chubb Insurance and Equifax, Alex brings deep expertise in transforming marketing strategies for Fortune 500 organizations and emerging tech ecosystems. His work establishing the "Atlanta Where You Belong" brand and fostering the Atlanta Growth Collective has positioned the region as a model for regional marketing and innovation ecosystems. What You'll Learn:How to leverage a CMO advisory council to build authentic city branding by assembling chief marketersWhy "place branding" requires defining emotional belonging, not just economic benefitsThe talent flywheel strategy and making the most of the city’s academic ecosystemHow to position B2B companies as part of your city's DNAWhy the startup ecosystem infrastructure (Atlanta Tech Village, Russell Innovation Center, South Downtown development) should be central to city marketingThe multi-geography branding challenge and how to solve it Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 151John Brockelman’s Unconventional Playbook for Financial Marketing Success
Financial services marketing is one of the hardest kinds of marketing to crack. But John Brockelman and his team at State Street Investment Management have proven, campaign after campaign, that it can be done well and done right. Tune in for his playbook on how financial services marketers can drive growth, connection and culture.What You'll Learn:How to align marketing with sales and business objectivesThe importance of simplifying brand architecture for market expansionHow to build intentional talent strategies by mixing specialized and generalist expertiseWhy guerrilla marketing and experiential activations outperform traditional advertising in regulated industriesHow to use strategic partnerships to reach new audiencesHow to scale AI adoption across marketing operations without replacing human creativity Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 150Why the Super Bowl Still Matters ft. Leading CMOs from the SF 49ers, Mars, Comcast & Liquid I.V.
The Super Bowl is one of the biggest stages in the world - not just for the game and its players, but for marketers too. So, how do you make sure you win the game? In this episode of Marketing Vanguard, four industry-leading CMOs - Gabrielle Wesley (Mars Wrigley), Stephanie Rogers (San Francisco 49ers), John Gieselman (Comcast) and Stacy Andrade-Wells (Liquid I.V.), reveal their personal playbooks on making the most of the Super Bowl opportunity, cutting through the hype and executing at the highest level. What You'll Learn:How to build a solid business case for Super Bowl marketing investmentWhy you should capitalize on the intersection of creative disruption and brand strategyHow to activate beyond the 30 or 60-second spot through ecosystem thinkingWhy simplicity and cultural relevance are your competitive advantagesThe "uncomfortable gut reaction" test for evaluating creative readinessHow to measure impact across different time horizons without becoming paralyzed by metrics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 149How Archer Roose Is Flipping the Wine Industry on Its Head with CMO, Conley Downing
Wine was a gatekept category, suffering from the dreaded perception of being "boring." That is, until Archer Roose, the canned wine company, redefined the category and made it fun for Gen Z. In this episode of Marketing Vanguard, CMO of the brand, Conley Downing, unpacks how they leveraged “fun” marketing (instead of educational marketing) to make wine accessible and interesting again. What You'll Learn:How to reposition a legacy category by identifying and eliminating barriers to entryWhy product format innovation creates distribution and occasion expansion beyond traditional compete setsThe strategic value of celebrity partnerships rooted in authentic brand alignment and commercial acumenHow to build sustainable growth through data ownership and omnichannel funnel strategyWhy founder-led startups must balance rapid scaling with long-term positioning and acquisition readinessHow transparency and ingredient clarity are becoming table stakes in beverage marketing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S11 Ep 148Disrupting the Marketing Landscape with Purpose with Sarah Leinberger of Yoobi
Staying authentic and mission-driven while scaling aggressively may be the toughest problem in marketing to solve. But Sarah Leinberger, VP and Head of Marketing, Yoobi, has a pretty solid take on how to do it. In this episode of Marketing Vanguard, recorded during Brandweek in Atlanta, Sarah reveals how CMOs can build authentic brand equity through strategic collaborations, why agility trumps budget in today's market, and the key strategies to balance rapid iteration with meaningful purpose. What You'll Learn:How to leverage borrowed equity without diluting brand identityWhy speed and flexibility are competitive advantages for challenger brandsThe foundational framework for retail media successHow to build meaningful retailer partnerships that go beyond “exclusive.” The key strategies to optimize high-impact small teamsWhy authentic leadership accelerates team performance and trust Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 147Acing Brand Experience with Nic Brandenberger, CMO, Mammut Sports Group AG, at the World Economic Forum Event
In this episode of Marketing Vanguard, live from the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, Nic Brandenberger, CMO of Mammut, the 164-year-old Swiss mountaineering gear company, unpacks why Davos represents a unique opportunity for C-suite marketers and how the experiences brands create matter far more than the products they sell.What You'll Learn:How to shift the definition of “brand” from product provider to experience giverWhy breaking out of the marketing silo is a critical competitive advantage The strategic advantage of being a part of DavosHow to balance wholesale and direct-to-consumer channelsHow consumer-centric foundation separates great marketing from mediocre execution Ways to identify and penetrate niche communities in fragmented markets like US mountaineering Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 146Successfully Using AI in Business with ClearPrompt CEO, Karin Timpone, at the World Economic Forum Event
Podcasting live from the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, Karin Timpone, CEO and Founder of ClearPrompt, unpacks how to implement AI with focused, phased approaches rather than sweeping transformations and staying in the center of business strategy. What You'll Learn:Why CMOs are perfectly positioned to lead AI strategy across organizationsHow to break down AI implementation into focused, phased pilots instead of betting the entire farmThe difference between technology adoption and strategic impactHow to build cross-functional alignment in the C-suite around technology and strategyPick one lane and go deep rather than trying to master all of AIWhy it’s important to lean into industry moments that connect you with peers facing similar challenges Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 145Brandweek 2025: Build-A-Bear’s CEO, Sharon Price John on Claiming Your Place, Being a CEO and More
From $0 confidence to CEO of one of the most well-known brands in the world, Sharon Price John’s story is nothing short of inspiring and we’re unpacking it on the latest episode of Marketing Vanguard. In this conversation, straight from the Brandweek 2025 stage in Atlanta, Sharon, CEO of Build-A-Bear, reveals her unconventional career journey and how that evolution directly shaped the turnaround and reimagining of an iconic experiential brand.What You'll Learn:How to transition from functional expertise to CEO-level thinkingWhy CMOs must adopt a "business-first" mindset to advanceThe confidence gap that holds high-potential women back from applying for stretch rolesHow to unlock brand equity by understanding feeling over functionThe critical role of authentic leadership in driving organizational transformationHow to pivot a single-location retail concept into an IP-driven, multi-vertical businessIn an era where the marketing playbook is being rewritten daily, how can brands stay ahead? Joshua Spanier, Google’s VP of AI and Marketing Strategy, pulls back the curtain in “Frontier CMO,” his new podcast and weekly insights letter featuring the marketers, thought leaders, and industry pioneers who are reinventing marketing.Josh previews the tough questions and unfiltered conversations featured on Frontier CMO, including:AI as a leadership test: exploring the "human" side of the AI revolution. As technology and tools advance the challenge becomes equipping marketing teams to leverage these technologiesBrand relevance and connection: writing the next playbook for brand relevance by showing up as a main character in the places and spaces that connect with your audienceAgentic Commerce: understanding the transition from "speed vs. certainty" to a world where shopping is fast and smartThe new marketing organization: knowing where AI makes work faster and smarter and restructuring teams to keep up. Redefining agency partnerships to elevate insights and creativity in real timeEach episode of Frontier CMO features tactical, practical steps all leaders can take to navigate the future of marketing. Find it wherever you get your podcasts: YouTube | Apple | Spotify Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 144CMO Relevance Secrets with Sumit Virmani at the World Economic Forum Event
More than ever before, CMOs belong in the C-Suite. And, Sumit Virmani, CMO of Infosys, has a strong case to back this stance up. In this episode of Marketing Vanguard, live from the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos, Sumit breaks down the necessary evolution of the CMO, what AI has to do with it, and the strategic imperative of aligning with C-suite priorities. What You'll Learn:Why CMOs need to operate within the full C-suite context, not just marketing bubblesHow to position yourself as a transformation partner, not a marketing operatorThe critical difference between using AI to do marketing better versus using AI to expand your business influenceWhy advocating for marketing's "seat at the strategy table" requires complementing creative genius with AI-powered analyticsHow to build an undeniable business case for attending high-level forums like Davos Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 143Workday CMO, Emma Chalwin, Discussing the AI Era - World Economic Forum Event
CMOs can drive business revenue - this is an established fact. But how can they do it better, bigger, and stronger in the age of AI? We’re unpacking this in the latest episode of Marketing Vanguard, live from the 2026 World Economic Forum in Davos. Tune in as Emma Chalwin, CMO at Workday, breaks down the evolving strategic role of CMOs at major enterprises, the intersection of AI and human-centered marketing, and how chief marketing officers can become essential drivers of business growth. What You'll Learn:How to position CMOs as strategic business leaders in the age of AIThe "Art and Science" Framework for modern CMOs to thrive Why AI adoption requires a human-centered brand narrativeHow to reframe customer relationships from acquisition to retentionThe "B2B to B2H" (Business to Human) messaging approach and why it’s critical How to embed brand values as competitive differentiation Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 142How Rachel Thornton is Making Marketers 10x More Powerful at Adobe - World Economic Forum Event
AI has long been thought of as a threat to creativity. But what if they’re not at odds at all? In this episode of Marketing Vanguard, live from the World Economic Forum in Davos, CMO of Adobe Enterprise, Rachel Thornton, reveals why putting human creativity at the center of marketing strategy is more critical than ever and how CMOs should be navigating this tectonic shift. What You'll Learn:How to position AI as "augmented intelligence" rather than artificial intelligenceWhy the core creative concept must remain human-driven while AI handles scalingHow to free your marketers from tactical asset-building so they focus on what they loveThe framework for proving marketing's revenue impact to your C-suiteWhy authenticity and brand definition are now competitive imperativesHow to treat customers as co-creators of your brand experience, particularly with Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 141How Microsoft’s Bonnie Pelosi Uses AI to Lead at the Edge of Innovation - World Economic Forum Event
AI has permeated every conversation since 2024, but CMOs have yet to use it to its full potential. In this episode of Marketing Vanguard, live from the World Economic Forum at Davos, Bonnie Pelosi, CEO EMEA at Microsoft, reveals the truth about AI in marketing - what’s going right, what’s going wrong, and everything in between. What You'll Learn:How to embed governance into AI implementation from day oneWhy CMOs must act as connectors across the entire C-suiteThe "Customer Zero" mindset and why AI use cases must be geared, first, towards customers How to lead cultural transformation, not just technology rolloutWhy curiosity and empathy are non-negotiable CMO competenciesThe distinction between tactical and strategic leadership Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 140Salesforce CMO, Ariel Kelman's 25-Year Playbook for Marketing at Scale
In today’s tech-driven world, tech marketers cannot afford to lose sight of client trust. And yet, they do. On this episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast, President and CMO of Salesforce, Ariel Kelman, reveals why customer success storytelling matters more than ever, how to ground AI in trusted first-party data, and the key strategies for balancing AI automation with human creativity. What You'll Learn:How to ground AI agents in customer data to drive measurable outcomes Why CMO leadership must pioneer AI adoption before mandating it across teams AI’s productivity paradox - why it enables both more output AND better work-life balance How to position your brand's trust as a competitive moat in the AI eraThe framework for balancing centralized brand strategy with decentralized field execution Why "show, don't tell" beats feature-focused marketing when launching complex products Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 139The Proven Playbook for Cultural Relevance at Georgia-Pacific with Laura Knebusch
How does one keep a 100-year-old brand relevant in today’s turbulent times of marketing and consumption? The full picture reveals itself in this episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast as Laura Knebusch, SVP of CPG Marketing and CX at Georgia-Pacific, breaks down what it takes to keep a heritage brand alive and thriving. From how century-old heritage brands like Brawny, Angel Soft, and Dixie evolve without alienating loyal consumers to how a classically trained marketer navigates AI, retail transformation, and cultural moments in real time, this conversation proves that adaptability and agility aren’t just possible; it’s crucial to the success and growth of your brand. What You'll Learn:How to refresh iconic brand characters while preserving core equityWhy "living your brands" is an organizational imperative, not just a marketing functionThe measurement system that connects marketing investment to business outcomesHow to capitalize on viral moments and cultural momentum without losing authenticityWhy sustainability messaging shouldn't drive your brand positioning (even when consumers care)How to architect a modern marketing organization that balances internal capabilities with external partnerships Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 138How to Become a SUCCESSFUL Challenger Brand ft. BodyArmor and Tom Gargiulo
Creative scrappiness can take brands where no one else has ever gone before - that’s BodyArmor’s story and we’re diving deep into it on the latest episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast. Tune in as the brand’s CMO, Tom Gargiulo, opens up the pages of his playbook on succeeding as a challenger brand. From how to build winning athlete partnerships and leverage unconventional media channels for outsized ROI to executing a brand rebirth that resonates with both consumers and retail partners, this conversation is packed with actionable insights on punching above your weight in the CPG space and coming out on top. What You'll Learn:How to build a disruptor/ challenger brand positioning in a saturated categoryWhy athlete-first partnerships outperform big-budget league deals if you’re a resource-constrained brandsThe power of the bottling community’s alignment in driving executionHow social media ROI dramatically outperforms traditional TVThe value of transparency and space-giving in high-performing marketing teamsWhy strategic media partnerships (Barstool, Dude Perfect, Savannah Bananas) create household brand status without massive budgets Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 137When Your Brand is Core to the Growth Engine, You Need to Learn How to Drive ft. Caryn Wasser
Brand marketing is getting its time to shine in the latest episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast as we sit down with Caryn Wasser, Chief Brand Officer at Little Spoon. Tune in for an energizing conversation on how a brand drives growth and revenue and why its place in scaling a business should never be underestimated. Plus: exclusive insights on how she built a $150M+ brand from a windowless WeWork room to become the largest online baby and kids food company in the U.S. What You'll Learn:How to design a Chief Brand Officer role from scratch by letting business needs dictate strategy, not industry conventionsWhy "brand-led growth" requires being obsessively rooted in consumer truth over chasing marketing trendsThe operational framework for treating marketing as a full-funnel, interconnected system where every team member owns business impactHow to maintain authentic brand positioning when scaling into retail without compromising identityWhy early-stage founders should pursue board seats and executive roles at startups over staying at legacy companiesThe counterintuitive approach to celebrity and influencer partnerships Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 136What Keeps iFit Ahead of the Curve? Kirsten Spittel-Sloan’s Personalization Secret
In the latest episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast, we welcome Kirsten Spittel-Sloan, SVP, Marketing at iFit, for an eye-opening chat on what it takes to succeed in the fitness tech space today. Listen in for Kirsten’s playbook on how marketing leaders can navigate rapid technological change, build adaptive teams and balance analytical rigor with authentic brand narratives in an increasingly complex marketplace.What You'll Learn:How to invest across the entire marketing funnel equally during periods of rapid change, rather than concentrating resources on trending channelsThe "High Trust + Adaptability" leadership framework for building marketing teams that can flex resources without sacrificing cohesion or brand consistencyHow to balance ROAS obsession with brand-building investmentsWhy personalization powered by AI is non-negotiable for retentionThe imperative for new marketing professionals to become hybrid technical experts and artists simultaneouslyUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 135Therabody’s CMO on Why Every Brand MUST Have a Differentiating Asset
In the latest episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast, we welcome John Solomon, CMO at Therabody, for a revealing conversation on transforming a single-product company into a diversified wellness ecosystem through marketing. Listen in for John’s tried-and-tested strategic frameworks that have enabled Therabody to expand while maintaining brand integrity and consumer trust. This conversation emphasizes the importance of investing in a differentiating asset that makes your brand a stand-out in its segment. What You'll Learn:How to define and defend distinctive assets while protecting your brand's unique visual and functional propertiesWhy the four-year CMO tenure marks a critical inflection point and how to pace your 4 years in the role The "science-first differentiation" strategy for crowded categoriesHow to reframe messaging from adjectives like "speeds and feeds" to tangible consumer outcomesThe partnership-as-distribution model to reach new audiencesWhy entertainment partnerships require risk framework conversations with stakeholdersUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 134Building the Most Agile, Adaptable and Resilient Marketing Team: The Jennie Weber Way
In this episode of Marketing Vanguard, we sit down with Jennie Weber, Chief Marketing Officer at Best Buy to talk about all things iconic. From the non-linear approach it takes to build a legacy brand to the critical importance of adaptability and resilience in marketing teams today, Jennie breaks down the strategies that have helped her and her team at Best Buy stay ahead of the curve (and stand the test of time). Tune in for actionable insights on weathering one of retail’s most dynamic periods. What You'll Learn:How to build a customer-first decision-making framework that becomes embedded in organizational cultureWhy adaptability and growth mindset trump traditional team expansion and contraction in volatile marketsHow learning from setbacks can become your true competitive advantageThe strategic value of retail media networks beyond adsHow to identify and activate "passion points" for authentic brand partnerships based on cultural momentumThe resurgence of physical retail as a differentiator in the AI eraWhy creator partnerships and influencer storefronts unlock authentic brand storytellingUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 133Marketing as a Profit Center featuring Llibert Argerich
Llibert Argerich, Chief Marketing Officer at Thumbtack, joins this week’s episode of Marketing Vanguard to rewrite the narrative of the marketing function - from cost centre to profit driver. Tune in to explore ROI-driven strategies that marketers can and must use, why local market strategy outperforms national campaigns for fragmented industries, and how AI is transforming customer-to-pro matching at scale. Backed by rich experience, Llibert offers actionable frameworks for driving measurable growth without breaking the bank.If you’re looking to do more with less and transform your marketing team into a business enabler, this conversation is for you. What You'll Learn:How to reframe marketing budgets as profit driversWhy it’s critical to shift from being a marketing practitioner to an enabler who removes barriersThe Local Market Strategy Framework for hyper-local industries - reducing risk while building brand equity responsiblyHow to leverage AI for product-market fit as your primary marketing engine and fuel brand awarenessThe discipline of constraint-driven innovation - protecting profitability while still investing in brand-building initiativesHow to build cross-functional credibility with CFOs and leadership, positioning marketing as a strategic partner, not a department seeking blank checks.Unlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 132How Experiential Marketing Uncovers Hidden Profits ft. Kristen Lauria
Kristen Lauria, Chief Customer and Marketing Officer at Wheels Up, joins this episode of Marketing Vanguard to explore the evolution of luxury travel marketing and brand transformation. From her unique journey from aerospace engineering to marketing leadership, Kristen shares insights on pivoting brands toward growth, building trust with high-net-worth clients, and creating exceptional customer experiences. As it stands, Wheels Up is revolutionizing private aviation through innovative membership models, strategic partnerships, and its marketing team has everything to do with it. This conversation serves as a critical reminder of a good marketer’s core responsibility: translating complex business ideas into powerful customer value. What You'll Learn:How to leverage technical expertise to translate complex products into compelling market offeringsThe evolution of private aviation marketing from product-focused to solutions-based approachesWhy membership models require "customer centricity on steroids" in luxury travel servicesHow to build trust-based marketing strategies for high-net-worth audiencesHow to balance B2B, B2C and B2B2C marketing approaches in luxury servicesThe strategic importance of brand partnerships in elevating customer experiencesHow to lead marketing transformation through pace-setting and coaching leadership stylesUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 131How Infosys’ CMO Sumit Virmani Is Making B2B Marketing an Emotional Affair
Sumit Virmani, Global CMO of Infosys, joins this episode of Marketing Vanguard to explore the evolving landscape of B2B marketing, the transformative impact of AI, and the delicate balance between art and science in modern marketing. As an “accidental marketer”, he brings unique strategic insights on building emotional connections in B2B, responsible AI adoption, and staying ahead of technological disruption. In this conversation, he shines a light on Infosys’ journey to becoming a $19B-revenue global tech brand and what the marketing team has to do with growth.What You'll Learn:How to leverage financial acumen to build stronger relationships with the C-suite and drive marketing successWhy creating emotional connections is equally important in B2B marketingThe Navigator Framework for building long-term client relationships in tech consultingHow to balance short-term business objectives with long-term brand aspirationsWhy AI represents a disruptive rather than incremental shift in marketing capabilitiesWhy 95% repeat business proves the value of deep institutional trust in B2B relationshipsThe three-pillar approach to modern CMO leadership: building business trust, developing strong teams, and maintaining market presenceUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 130Inside the Mind of a University CMO: Ethan Braden on Turning Texas A&M into a National Brand
Welcome to this episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast. Today, Jenny Rooney speaks with Ethan Braden, Chief Marketing Officer at Texas A&M University, about building one of America’s most consequential higher-education brands.Ethan shares how his journey from Eli Lilly to Purdue University to Texas A&M shaped his approach to leadership, storytelling, and reputation management in complex institutions. He discusses how to balance tradition and innovation, why universities must think like modern brands, and how collaborations, from NASCAR to Dude Perfect, can open new doors for engagement and national relevance. This conversation is a masterclass in brand building that applies far beyond academia.What You'll Learn:How to transition corporate marketing expertise into higher education.The strategic difference between driving student demand and building national reputation.How to craft a brand narrative rooted in mission, culture, and community.Why understanding your “product” and your audience defines long-term success.How collaborations and partnerships expand reach and relevance.How AI and technology are reshaping marketing team structures.The leadership mindset needed to turn institutions into admired brands.Unlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 129Thinking Human: Doug Zarkin on the Real Equation Behind Brand Value
Welcome to this episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast. Today, Jenny Rooney speaks with Doug Zarkin, CMO of Take 5 Oil Change and author of "Moving Your Brand Out of the Friend Zone." In this compelling conversation, Doug shares how he's transforming a commodity category into an emotional brand experience through people-first leadership.Doug's career spans from the agency world at Saatchi & Saatchi and Grey to client-side roles at Avon Products and Victoria's Secret PINK. Most notably, he spent eleven years as CMO at Pearle Vision, an unusually long tenure, where he led a complete brand transformation that resulted in the company topping Entrepreneur's Franchise 500. Now, as the first-ever CMO for Take Five Oil Change, Doug is applying his proven "people, process, progress, profitability" framework to elevate a challenger brand in the oil change category.What You'll Learn:The secret to achieving an 11-year CMO tenure in an era of short tenuresThe "people, process, progress, profitability" framework for successThe brand value equation: Experience divided by priceChallenger brand strategy for competing from fourth placeWhy "thinking human" transforms customer relationshipsUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 128How Feast & Fettle's Alon Rivel is Building a Regional Food Empire
Alon Rivel, CMO of Feast & Fettle, discusses the Northeast meal delivery company's contrarian approach to growth with Marketing Vanguard’s host Jenny Rooney. With his unconventional background spanning TV media buying, The New York Times, Bloomberg, and B2C tech startups, he brings a unique perspective to building authentic brands.The conversation explores how Feast & Fettle differentiates by focusing on time as currency rather than trendy diets or speed. Their approach combines locally-sourced ingredients with hospitality-first service and community building.What You'll Learn:How to build authentic brand positioning that goes beyond product featuresWhy intentional regional growth can be more profitable than national expansionStrategies for creating community through food and shared experiencesHow to balance profitability with purpose-driven initiativesWhy cutting a marketing team in half can improve performanceThe importance of reading the room and understanding customer psychologyHow to maintain quality and authenticity while scaling operationsAlon Rivel serves as the first CMO at Feast & Fettle, where he's spent just over a year transforming their marketing approach. Previously, he worked across TV media buying, digital marketing for B2C apps, and various tech startups. He brings experience from The New York Times, Bloomberg, and multiple venture-backed companies in the dating and on-demand service sectors.Unlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 127Transforming Heritage Retail Brands from JCPenney to Brooks Brothers with Marisa Thalberg
Welcome to this episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast. Today, Jenny Rooney speaks with Marisa Thalberg, Chief Customer and Marketing Officer at Catalyst Brands, in a candid conversation about leadership, risk-taking, and brand transformation in retail marketing.Marisa discusses her career journey across diverse industries - from Estée Lauder and Taco Bell to Lowe's, SeaWorld, and now JCPenney. She opens up about learning from failures, dealing with short tenures, and why marketers must take calculated risks. The conversation explores her current role transforming JCPenney and the broader Catalyst Brands portfolio, which includes Brooks Brothers, Aeropostale, Lucky Brand, Nautica, and Eddie Bauer.What You'll Learn:How to navigate career missteps and build resilience as a marketing leaderThe dynamic nature of the CMO role necessitates a particular mindset and strategy.Strategies for transforming legacy retail brands while honoring their heritageThe importance of talking up to consumers rather than down to themHow to balance innovation with brand conventions that actually matterWhy customer-centric titles and thinking can transform marketing's roleLessons from managing a diverse portfolio of heritage retail brandsThe power of creative constraints in driving better marketing outcomesUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 126Timeless Marketing Principles in the AI Era: A Conversation with Meta's CMO, Alex Schultz
Welcome to this episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast. Today, Jenny Rooney speaks with Alex Schultz, Chief Marketing Officer and VP of Analytics at Meta, about his newly released book "Click Here: The Art and Science of Digital Marketing and AdvertisingAs Jenny's repeat guest, Alex brings battle-tested insights from his 18-year tenure at Meta, where he's witnessed digital marketing's complete transformation. He reveals his motivation for writing "Click Here" - the definitive guide to online marketing that fills a critical gap left by classic texts like Claude Hopkins' "Scientific Advertising." Alex argues that while technology evolves at breakneck speed, the core principles that drive marketing success remain surprisingly constant across decades.What You'll Learn:Alex's 18-year journey at Meta and his unique dual role in marketing and analyticsThe writing process and inspiration behind "Click Here: The Art and Science of Digital Marketing and Advertising"Why incrementality measurement is the key to marketing successThe importance of North Star goals versus metricsHow AI will enhance rather than replace marketing rolesThe timeless principles that have guided successful marketing for decadesTeam structures that work across different marketing erasUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 125Building Authentic Marketing in Baby Tech with Elizabeth Teran of Owlet
Welcome to this episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast. Today, Jenny Rooney speaks with Elizabeth Teran, Chief Parent Officer at Owlet. In this compelling conversation, Elizabeth shares how she's transforming marketing at the baby tech company that revolutionized infant monitoring with medical-grade pulse oximetry technology.Elizabeth brings extensive experience from her 10-year tenure at Skullcandy in product marketing, followed by over 5 years at Owlet where she led the company through significant challenges and growth. She discusses the unique positioning of marketing medical-grade technology to parents, the company's journey from FDA warning letter to full medical clearance, and her philosophy of authentic, education-based marketing.What You'll Learn:Navigating FDA regulatory challenges while maintaining brand trustBuilding product-first marketing strategies in healthcare technologyThe power of authentic community over paid influencer partnershipsTransforming crisis into opportunity through strategic pivotsBalancing medical credibility with accessible parent communicationUsing AI as a tool to enhance rather than replace human creativityBuilding global medical clearances across multiple marketsUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 124From Heritage to Innovation: Building a Global Energy Brand with Francis Perrin, Chief Brand and Sustainability Officer of Rehlko
Welcome to this episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast. Today, Jenny Rooney speaks with Francis Perrin, Chief Brand and Sustainability Officer at Rehlko, about brand transformation and B2B marketing innovation.Francis discusses his career from P&G and L'Oréal to leading the transformation of Kohler Energy into the independent company Rehlko. He shares the strategic thinking behind the rebrand, including how they created the name Rehlko as an anagram of Kohler to maintain heritage while establishing independence. The conversation explores the opportunity in residential power generation, competing as a challenger brand against industry giants, and why Francis believes B2B marketing offers more opportunities than consumer marketing.Best Buy CMO, Jennie Weber also joins Jenny in a mid-episode sidebar discussion on the latest innovations for the Best Buy Ads retail media network and their latest campaign "We Got Next." Sponsored by Best Buy Ads.What You'll Learn:How to successfully rebrand and spin off from a heritage parent companyStrategies for competing as a challenger brand in established B2B marketsWhy embedding sustainability directly into brand leadership creates business impactThe untapped potential in residential power generation and data center marketsHow to build marketing organizations from scratch with enterprise-level thinkingWhy B2B marketing offers unique creative opportunities for CPG-trained marketersMethods for maintaining brand heritage while driving innovation and growthThe importance of focus and purpose-driven messaging in industrial marketingLearn more about miniMBA courses HERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 123Building the Future of Marketing Leadership: Insights from Marketing Vanguard's Founding Members
Welcome to this special episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast. Today, Jenny Rooney speaks with the founding members of Marketing Vanguard membership at ADWEEK: Soyoung Kang, President of eos Products, and Vineet Mehra, CMO of Chime. They discuss their unique career journeys, the evolving CMO role, and why they joined forces to help rewrite the narrative around marketing leadership. From efficient capital allocation to building trust in the C-suite, these leaders share candid insights about what it really takes to succeed as a modern CMO.These marketing leaders delve into their distinct career paths, the evolving responsibilities of a CMO, and their collaborative effort to reshape the perception of marketing leadership. They offer frank perspectives on the true requirements for success as a contemporary CMO, covering topics from effective capital allocation to fostering C-suite trust.What you'll learn:How non-linear career paths can lead to CMO successWhy "efficient growth" should be every CMO's unifying mandateStrategies for building trust and credibility in the C-suiteHow to understand different "love languages" of PE, VC, and public companiesWhy experience trumps traditional education in marketing leadershipHow to navigate the constant platform shifts that make marketing uniquely challengingWhat makes Marketing Vanguard's approach to CMO community building differentLearn more about miniMBA courses HERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 122Marketing Evangelism and B2B Transformation: Insights from Sangeeta Prasad, CMO of Slalom
Welcome to this episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast. Today, Jenny Rooney speaks with Sangeeta Prasad, Chief Marketing Officer at Slalom, about her unique journey from classic consumer products marketing to B2B transformation leadership. Sangeeta shares her experiences transitioning from well-established brands like P&G, American Express, and JPMorgan Chase to becoming the first CMO at professional services firms.She explains why she calls herself a "marketing evangelist" rather than just a marketer, emphasizing her role in converting organizational skeptics into believers. The conversation explores the unique dynamics of B2B marketing versus B2C, particularly in professional services where trust, credibility, and relationships are paramount.What You'll Learn:How to transition from consumer marketing to B2B leadership rolesStrategies for overcoming marketing skepticism in sales-driven organizationsWays to position marketing as a revenue generator rather than a cost centerMethods for building emotional connections with B2B customers through "customer love" metricsHow to navigate the rapid pace of AI transformation in marketing teamsKey differences between B2B and B2C marketing approaches and when each appliesTechniques for aligning sales and marketing organizations for better resultsFuture plans for sales and marketing alignment and personalization at scaleLearn more about miniMBA courses HERE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 121ADWEEK x MiniMBA Brings Mark Ritson’s Masterclass to U.S. Marketers
Welcome to this episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast live from Cannes. Today, Jenny Rooney speaks with Mark Ritson, world-renowned marketing professor and founder of MiniMBA, about his controversial views on brand purpose, the importance of running great ads for years, and why American marketing has lost its edge. Discover Mark's partnership with ADWEEK, his strategy of saying "no" to America for a decade, and why he believes killing brands is more productive than creating them.What You'll Learn:Why Mark Ritson avoided the American market for 10 years and his strategic partnership with ADWEEKThe uncomfortable truth about brand purpose and why the data doesn't support the hypeWhy running great creative for 2-3 years drives better results than constant campaign changesThe "pornography of change" and why AI won't transform marketing as quickly as predictedWhy killing brands is more productive than creating them (Mark's killed 200+ in his career) Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 120The Future of Play in a Digital World: Insights from Jason Bunge, CMO of Hasbro
"If you're constantly viewed as the ad team, the ad person, I think we lose. I think we're going to continue to struggle to dig out of the relevancy hole."Welcome to this episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast. Today, Jenny Rooney speaks with Jason Bunge, CMO of Hasbro, in a conversation that challenges traditional notions of marketing leadership and explores the future of play in a digital world.Jason brings experience from technology companies including Skype, Microsoft, Riot Games, and EA before joining Hasbro two years ago. The conversation explores Hasbro's transformation from a traditional toy company to a diversified entertainment portfolio spanning physical toys, digital gaming, and trading cards through Wizards of the Coast. Jason discusses how the company navigates generational shifts in play patterns and how marketing must adapt to serve different audiences across multiple business lines.What You'll Learn:The evolution of marketing from tactical execution to strategic leadershipBuilding marketing credibility within organizationsHasbro's transformation across toys, gaming, and trading cardsGenerational shifts in play and consumer behaviorThe challenge of building franchises versus individual brandsPortfolio marketing strategy for diverse business linesThe future of physical versus digital play experiencesJason Bunge serves as Chief Marketing Officer at Hasbro, where he leads marketing strategy across the company's diverse portfolio of toys, games, and entertainment properties. Previously, he held senior marketing roles at EA Games, Riot Games, Microsoft, Trulia, and Skype. He holds an MBA from Harvard Business School and brings experience across both B2B and consumer marketing in technology and entertainment industries. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 119Community Intelligence and the Future of Reddit Marketing: Insights from Roxy Young, CMO of Reddit
What if you could tap into 20 years of authentic consumer conversations to transform your marketing strategy?In this special Cannes edition of Marketing Vanguard, host Jenny Rooney sits down with Roxy Young, CMO of Reddit, to explore the power of community intelligence and why brands need to embrace authentic engagement. From Reddit's evolution as a marketing platform to their groundbreaking AI-powered insights tools, this conversation reveals how marketers can harness the power of genuine community feedback. Tune in to discover why Reddit's unique approach to brand safety, open communities, and real consumer dialogue is driving 60% year-over-year revenue growth and changing the future of marketing.What You'll Learn:How Reddit transformed from 9 people with no space to a marketing powerhouse hosting 4,000+ visitors at CannesWhy Reddit is fundamentally different from social media and what that means for your marketing strategyThe three-layer brand safety approach that protects your brand while maintaining authentic community engagementHow to turn negative brand conversations into powerful customer winsReddit's game-changing Community Intelligence platform that delivers insights in minutes instead of weeksWhy being the 6th most searched term on Google makes Reddit conversations crucial for your brandThe evolution from Don Draper-style messaging to brave community marketing that requires giving up controlStream the new episode below and subscribe on Apple Podcasts or find it on Spotify Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 118Innovation or Die: How Pepsi's Mark Kirkham Masters the Duality of Marketing
Welcome to this episode of the Marketing Vanguard podcast live from Cannes. Today, Jenny Rooney speaks with Mark Kirkham, CMO of PepsiCo Beverages US, about the relentless pace of innovation in the beverage category, the art of balancing core brands with new acquisitions like Poppi, and why every challenge is an opportunity. Discover how PepsiCo continues to cultivate world-class marketing talent, the role of AI in building capabilities versus outsourcing them, and why making "simple special" is the key to successWhat You'll Learn:Why "if you're not innovating, you die" defines the beverage category and how to balance core brands with new venturesThe secret behind PepsiCo's legendary talent cultivation system that has produced CMOs across the industryHow to think about AI as a capability-building tool rather than outsourcing technologyThe "core and more" strategy for growing established brands while pursuing new opportunitiesWhy every challenge should be viewed as an opportunity and every opportunity as a challenge Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 117AI as Your Creative Detective: Emily Ketchen on Leading Marketing in the Intelligence Era
What if you could transform your organization’s approach to AI while building a global brand?In this episode of Marketing Vanguard, host Jenny Rooney speaks with Emily Ketchen, CMO of Lenovo’s Intelligent Devices Group, live from the Cannes Lions Festival. Together, they explore how to lead AI integration within marketing teams, navigate global brand building across 180 markets, and leverage purpose-driven storytelling for genuine business growth. Whether you're a CMO navigating emerging technologies or a marketing leader seeking to balance global reach with local relevance, this conversation offers invaluable insights into the future of tech-driven marketing.What You'll Learn:How to use AI as a creative catalyst and personal detective for marketersStrategies for building AI governance councils and education programsThe difference between transcreation and translation in global marketingGen Z and Gen Alpha's impact on brand purpose and authenticityThe evolution of search from SEO to AEO (AI-Optimized Search)Lenovo's "Global Might, Local Fight" strategyThe role of purpose in driving both meaning and business growthUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 116How Hilton Democratized Creativity Through AI—Breaking Down Barriers with Mark Weinstein
AI and creativity are reshaping brand marketing, democratizing access to tools while challenging CMOs to navigate an increasingly complex digital landscape.In this special Cannes edition of Marketing Vanguard, host Jenny Rooney sits down with Mark Weinstein, CMO of Hilton Hotels, to explore the intersection of technology, experience, and authentic brand storytelling. From leveraging AI to democratize creativity to partnering with Paris Hilton and McLaren Racing, discover how to build meaningful experiences that resonate in an uncertain world. Whether you're navigating budget constraints, technological disruption, or cultural pitfalls, this conversation offers essential insights on staying relevant while maintaining authenticity.What You'll Learn:How AI is democratizing creativity and leveling the playing field for all brandsWhy the future involves "agentic AI talking to agentic AI" and what that means for marketersHow to create experiential activations that scale through content amplificationThe importance of maintaining share of wallet in constrained spending environmentsWhy being authentic in today's cultural landscape is more challenging than everHow strategic partnerships with celebrities and brands create mutual valueThe evolution of Cannes Lions and what CMOs should focus on at industry eventsUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 115From Barbie to Building Sets: How Mattel's CBO Transforms Legacy Brands Through Bold Storytelling with Lisa McKnight
From Toys to Entertainment: How Mattel is Transforming Legacy Brands for Modern AudiencesIn this episode of Marketing Vanguard, host Jenny Rooney sits down with Lisa McKnight, Executive Vice President and Chief Brand Officer at Mattel, to explore the art and science of managing over 100 active brands. From the billion-dollar success of the Barbie movie to the strategic evolution of Fisher-Price, discover how to make bold brand decisions, lead through purpose, and create positive cultural impact. Whether you're managing heritage brands or building new ones, this conversation offers invaluable insights on taking calculated risks, embracing inclusivity, and transforming your company from a house of brands to a branded house.What You'll Learn:How Mattel balances digital transformation with the enduring value of "analog play" in child developmentThe power of diverse voices and perspectives in weighing risky opportunitiesWhy leading with positivity creates lasting cultural impactHow to balance inclusivity with commercial viability across brand portfoliosThe strategic shift from toy company to IP and entertainment powerhouseWhy co-owning P&L makes marketing a profit center, not a cost centerHow to navigate difficult organizational decisions while maintaining team moraleUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 114Culture, Commerce & Community: How BET Transformed from Media Company to Movement with Kimberly Paige
In this episode of Marketing Vanguard, host Jenny Rooney sits down with Kimberly Paige, CMO of BET, to explore the intersection of content, culture, and community in modern media. From judging at Cannes Lions to celebrating BET's 45th anniversary, Paige shares how her extensive experience at P&G, Coca-Cola, and Coty shaped her approach to authentic storytelling and brand evolution. Learn how BET is pioneering change through strategic brand partnerships, streaming innovation, and a commitment to meaningful content that drives both cultural impact and commercial success. A must-listen for marketing leaders seeking to understand how heritage brands can stay relevant while maintaining their core mission.What You'll Learn:How BET transformed from being "the only place" for Black content to a platform focused on changing community outcomesWhy cultural credibility is the foundation for commercial viability in media and entertainmentThe strategy behind BET's successful entry into streaming as the first Paramount Global brandHow to modernize a legacy brand while maintaining authentic connections with core audiencesThe principles behind successful brand identity redesign that inspire internal innovationUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 113Purpose-Driven CMO: How Dara Treseder Transformed Autodesk's Brand Strategy
What if you could transform your marketing leadership journey through purpose and passion?In this special Cannes edition of Marketing Vanguard, host Jenny Rooney sits down with Dara Treseder, CMO of Autodesk, to explore the intersection of purpose-driven marketing and technological innovation. Discover how to build a meaningful career in marketing leadership, navigate the evolving B2B and B2C landscape, and harness AI's potential in creative industries. Whether you're a seasoned CMO or an aspiring marketing leader, this conversation offers invaluable insights on authentic brand building, the importance of believing in your product, and why leading with purpose is crucial for success.What You'll Learn:How to break down B2B vs B2C silos through emotional connectionThe Three P's Framework for making career decisions with purposeWhy AI skills requirements have exploded 640% since 2022 in marketingHow to transform from a house of brands to a branded house strategyThe power of technology to improve human existence globallyWhy "main intern energy" keeps you curious and growingUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 112Building 200-Year Old Brands in a 24-Hour World: AG1's Marketing Revolution with Paulie Dery
Creative leadership and strategic risk-taking are essential ingredients for building transformative brands in today's marketing landscape.In this episode of Marketing Vanguard, host Jenny Rooney sits down with Paulie Dery, CMO of AG1 (formerly Athletic Greens), for a masterclass in brand building and creative leadership. Drawing from his impressive journey through R/GA, Uber, and YETI, Paulie shares invaluable insights on why running toward challenges breeds creativity, how to maintain brand authenticity in a rapidly evolving market, and why great products paired with strong storytelling create a lasting impact. Whether you're navigating industry disruption or building community-driven brands, this conversation offers a candid look at how creativity remains the driving force behind successful marketing in today's landscape.What You'll Learn:How to identify brands with great products but underutilized storytelling Why community-first marketing beats performance marketing every time The secret to maintaining creative magic in an AI-driven world How AG1 plans to become one of America's next great brandsThe critical role of CEOs and leadership in enabling creative brand buildingUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 111Why B2B Marketing Needs a Human Revolution—EY CMO John Rudaizky Reveals Why
The Evolution of Brand Leadership in Professional Services: From Creative Agency to Global ConsultancyIn this episode of Marketing Vanguard, host Jenny Rooney sits down with John Rudaizky, Global CMO of EY, to explore the evolving landscape of marketing in professional services. From pioneering brand transformation in consultancy to navigating the intersection of AI and creativity, discover how EY is reshaping client experiences through their new Studio Plus initiative. Whether you're a CMO looking to drive organizational change or a marketing leader interested in the future of brand building, this conversation offers valuable insights on leading through disruption and maintaining human connection in an increasingly tech-driven world.What You'll Learn:Why brand success starts from within—by inspiring employees firstHow EY’s “Better Questions” campaign reshaped its brand identityThe strategy behind EY’s transformation and “Shape the Future with Confidence”How Studio Plus blends creative and consulting for better customer experiencesWhy social media, PR, and marketing must now work as oneHow to keep human connection at the heart of brand building—even in an AI worldThe growing role of creativity in professional servicesUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 110Creating Unified Experiences in Gaming: Jennifer Weissman on PENN Entertainment’s Strategy
How do you market entertainment experiences that span physical casinos, online gaming, and sports betting?In this episode of Marketing Vanguard, Jennifer Weissman, CMO of PENN Entertainment, shares how the company creates cohesive customer journeys across 42 casinos, racetracks, and digital platforms. From a time when showing casino floors in ads was prohibited to today's gamified loyalty ecosystems, Jennifer dives into regulatory shifts, customer lifetime value, and gamification beyond traditional gaming.What You'll Learn:How regulatory evolution has transformed gaming marketing possibilitiesWhy loyalty programs are the "lifeblood" of multi-platform entertainmentHow PENN Entertainment lowered customer acquisition age by 10 yearsThe psychology behind gamification and the power of the journeyBuilding partnerships that offer real utility for customersUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

S1 Ep 109Engineering the Future of Marketing: Esi Eggleston Bracey’s Unilever Playbook
How do you transform marketing from a cost center to a growth driver at one of the world's largest consumer goods companies?In this episode of Marketing Vanguard, Esi Eggleston Bracey, Chief Growth and Marketing Officer at Unilever, explores the evolving landscape of global brand marketing. From her engineering roots to leading 400+ brands serving 3.4 billion people, Esi shares insights on blending analytical rigor with creativity. She explains how to transform marketing from a one-to-many model to many-to-many, and how AI can be used as an enabler—not a disruptor. Whether you're steering a global brand or aspiring to lead one, this conversation offers a masterclass in purpose-driven marketing, cultural relevance, and driving growth through innovation. Discover how legacy brands like Dove stay culturally relevant and purpose-driven in today’s digital-first world.What You'll Learn:How to blend engineering discipline with creative marketing to solve complex business challengesThe shift from "one-to-many" to "many-to-many" marketing modelsWhy modern marketing requires both analytical rigor and creativityHow AI amplifies creative ideas without replacing human ingenuityThe psychology behind building desirable brands at scaleUnlocking the Creator Economy with AwinDid you know influencer marketing drives twice as many sales as display advertising, with a 37% higher retention rate?Awin helps brands harness this potential with tailored influencer management solutions that drive measurable results. Whether you're looking to grow your creator roster, foster long-term relationships, or track full-funnel performance, Awin’s expertise and platform integrations make it easy to scale campaigns and optimize impact.With partnerships across CreatorIQ, LTK, ShopMy, and more, brands gain access to powerful discovery tools and seamless tracking capabilities, ensuring transparency and efficiency at every stage.Here’s how brands can maximize their influencer marketing:Find the right creators – Access a diverse network of influencers, even in niche markets.Track performance with full transparency – Measure impact from awareness to conversions in real time.Incentivize influencers effectively – Commission-based rewards through affiliate links and coupon codes keep creators engaged.Blend influencer & affiliate marketing seamlessly – Awin’s integrations create a streamlined, results-driven approachUnlock the full potential of influencer marketing. Visit awin.link/adweek to start building high-impact partnerships today! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.