Marketing Happy Hour
Marketing Happy Hour helps corporate marketers and entrepreneurs navigate the marketing world, launch businesses, and advance their careers. Hosts Cassie Tucker and Ally Golden discuss marketing strategies, career growth, and leadership insights with industry guests. The podcast aims to provide inspiration and support for thriving in the marketing field.
Episodes
How to Turn Your Brand's Most Loyal Fans Into Your Best Marketing Channel (Lessons from Disney’s D23)
In this episode, Cassie and Ally are fresh off attending D23, Disney's biennial fan expo in Anaheim and one of the largest brand-driven community events in the world, and they're breaking down everything they observed through a marketing lens. From Crocs building a racetrack-themed booth to Marvel turning a line into a fully immersive story experience, to Disney transforming what could hav
How to Separate Your Personal Worth from Your Professional Title | Ally Golden of MHH
In this episode, Cassie turns the mic on co-host Ally Golden for a candid, long-overdue conversation about her career journey — from a PR degree she couldn't quite use, to a wealth management firm where she cut her marketing teeth, to brand management roles that clarified exactly where her passion lived, to a layoff that forced her to rethink everything she thought she knew about her own worth
Why Word of Mouth Still Beats Every Paid Channel | Lauren Schulte Wang of The Flex Co.
In this episode, we sit down with Lauren Schulte Wang, founder and CEO of The Flex Co., the brand behind the menstrual disc that has sold over 185 million units, holds 88% market share in its category, and is now carried in over 30,000 retail locations including Target, Walmart, and CVS. Lauren built Flex from scratch in 2016, creating an entirely new product category with zero search volume and a
REWIND: How National Geographic Stays Culturally Relevant with 400M+ Followers | Elizabeth Thompson of National Geographic
In this throwback episode, we sit down with Elizabeth Thompson, Senior Manager of Social Media at National Geographic, who leads strategy for one of the largest social ecosystems in the world — over 400 million followers across platforms. Elizabeth shares the career journey that took her from Army brat and freelancer to running social for one of the most iconic storytelling brands, including how s
Yes Way Rosé's Playbook for Building a Lifestyle Brand | With Co-Founders Erica Small and Nikki Huganir
In this episode, we sit down with Erica Small and Nikki Huganir, the co-founders of Yes Way Rosé — a wine brand that started as a $200 tote bag and an Instagram account in 2013 and has since grown into one of the top rosé brands in the US, with over 13 million bottles sold and retail placement at Target, Publix, Total Wine, Walmart, and beyond. What makes their story so compelling for marketers: t
Why 95% of This Brand's Marketing Budget Goes to In-Person Events | Meredith Mills-Merritt of The Original Southside
In this episode, Ally sits down with Meredith Mills-Merritt, founder and CEO of The Original Southside, a premium ready-to-drink gin cocktail inspired by her mom's summer recipe that has grown into 20+ markets, landed on shelves at Whole Foods and Total Wine, and seen shipments grow more than 370% in its second year. Meredith brings a background in prestige beauty brand management that shaped
How Rare Beauty Built Real Community Loyalty | Elle Rudnick, Manager of Consumer Marketing
Cassie sits down with Elle Rudnick, Manager of Integrated Marketing at Rare Beauty, to talk about what it really takes to build a community-first brand in a category that's saturated with brands claiming to be exactly that. Elle brings a unique lens shaped by nearly a decade across fashion and beauty — from merchandising to brand marketing — and walks us through how she's translating that
The Brand Strategy Behind PacSun's Comeback | Brie Olson, CEO of PacSun
In this episode, we sit down with Brieane (Brie) Olson, CEO of PacSun, for a conversation that is equal parts brand strategy masterclass and career inspiration. Brie has spent nearly two decades at PacSun — moving from design and product to marketing and digital before stepping into the CEO role three years ago — and has led one of retail's most remarkable transformation stories, taking the br
The Press Release Is Dead — Here's What's Actually Working in PR Right Now | Mady Lanni of Manychat
In this episode, we sit down with Mady Lanni, Senior PR Strategist at Manychat — the social media automation platform powering those viral "comment to get the link" moments you see across Instagram and TikTok every day. Mady's path to PR wasn't linear (criminal justice degree, anyone?), and that outside perspective has shaped a refreshingly sharp, social-first approach to a field
Cassie’s Unfiltered Career Story (Pivots, Big Risks, and Pitching Yourself)
Five years ago, Marketing Happy Hour was launched from scratch — Canva logo, Google searches, and zero podcasting experience. In this milestone episode, Cassie walks through the full arc of her career: from a self-pitched internship at a Florida restaurant group to a pivotal move to New York City, from leaving a stable agency job to start her own business in 2019, to building MHH into the communit
Stop Designing for Yourself: DIBS Beauty Co-Founder on Customer Clarity and Retail Marketing | Jeff Lee
In this episode, we sit down with Jeff Lee, CEO and co-founder of DIBS Beauty, one of the fastest-growing color cosmetics brands in the country, now carried in over 1,300 Ulta Beauty doors with a product waitlist culture that generated 17K+ sign-ups before their mascara even launched. Jeff's path to beauty CEO is anything but conventional: Yale Law, Wall Street, Stanford MBA, Alex Rodriguez, a
Building Marketing Strategies Grounded in Tangible Results (+ Modernizing Legacy) | Blair Lancer of Lancer Skincare
How do you breathe new life into a legacy brand without losing the clinical authority that made it famous? In this episode, Blair Lancer, CMO of Lancer Skincare, pulls back the curtain on her journey from a fashion-focused career at Saks Fifth Avenue to leading the strategic evolution of her family’s dermatology-backed empire. Blair discusses the nuances of the "multigenerational" approa
The 2026 Creator Playbook: UGC Strategy, Relationships & What's Actually Working Right Now | Elijah Khasabo of Vidovo
In this episode, we sit down with Elijah Khasabo, co-founder of Vidovo — a UGC and influencer platform connecting brands with creators — who started his entrepreneurial journey at 17, built a Discord community of 30,000 organically, and is now weeks away from graduating college while running a bootstrapped platform with 300+ brand clients and 25,000+ creators. Elijah breaks down why the creator ec
Using Claude + AI Tools for Content Creation and Organization | Kahlea Wade, April 2026
What happens when a non-tech founder decides to stop "pushing" prompts and starts "pulling" solutions from AI? Kahlea Wade, founder of Alora Society, returns for her record-breaking third appearance to share how she is reinventing her luxury talent agency through the power of Claude and AI agents. Kahlea walks us through her "aha moment"—building a fully functional in
The Disney Blueprint: How a 100-Year-Old Brand Stays Relevant
In this episode, Cassie and Ally dive into the high-level strategies shared by Disney’s top creative and marketing leaders during a standout session at SXSW. They break down the "Disney Blueprint for Brand Relevance," exploring how a century-old icon manages to capture the hearts of Gen Z and Gen Alpha without losing its core "Purist" fans. From the "Disney Flywheel"
How to Build a Culture-Driven Brand (Rewind) | Katelynn Ludwig of DUDE Wipes
REWIND EPISODE: What happens when you stop treating marketing as a transaction and start treating it as a 24/7 conversation? Katelynn Ludwig, Director of Brand Strategy at DUDE Wipes, joins the show to break down the "Life Quakes" framework—a strategy for showing up exactly when a consumer needs you most (from potty training to the college dorms). Katelynn shares the raw details of their
How to Scale a Brand Organically (Scrappy Marketing, Email, and Gifting) | Max of Untouched Blooms
What happens when you combine a $59 Amazon printer, a vintage 2005 Toyota, and a deep desire to spend more time with your family? You get Untouched Blooms, a handmade flower and pet accessory brand that has found its way into the hands of the Kardashians, Simone Biles, and Alex Earl—all without a single dollar spent on ads or PR agencies. In this episode, founder Max Gayle Summersett breaks down t
Your Guide to Freelancing in Marketing (Career Pivots + Building a Portfolio) | Emma Sheehy
What happens when you trade the traditional 9-to-5 ladder for a "choose your own adventure" career in the New York City media scene? In this episode, we sit down with Emma Sheehy, owner of Emma Sheehy Photography and a powerhouse freelance creator. Emma takes us through her journey from being an executive assistant in TV news to finding her creative voice through layoffs, side hustles, a
Why Partner Marketing is Taking Over in 2026 (+ How to Build Powerful Relationships) | Molly Shunney of CNN
Is partner marketing the missing link in your growth strategy? This week, we sit down with Molly Shunney, Director of Partner Marketing & Operations at CNN, to explore how she navigated a career path from scrappy tech startups to some of the world’s most iconic media brands. Molly breaks down the "startup instinct"—the ability to solve problems without a playbook—and how she uses tha
How to Create a Bold, Distinct Brand Identity and Social Media Presence | Alice Carroll of Foxes Bow Whiskey
What happens when you take a centuries-old, traditional industry and inject it with vibrant color? This week, Cassie sits down with Alice Carroll, Co-Founder of Foxes Bow Irish Whiskey, to discuss the art of strategic disruption. Alice breaks down her journey from "stealthily stealing secrets" at major whiskey multinationals to launching an independent brand that refuses to play by the r
How Raisin Bran Owned the Super Bowl After a 15-Year Hiatus | JP Severin of WK Kellogg Co
After more than a decade away from the Big Game, WK Kellogg Co’s Raisin Bran made a historic—and hilarious—return for Super Bowl LX. Cassie is joined by JP Severin, Brand Manager at WK Kellogg Co, to pull back the curtain on the "Will Shat" campaign. Starring the legendary William Shatner, the campaign tackled America’s "fiber gap" by blending sci-fi nostalgia with irreverent b
Building a Social Media Presence That Actually Sticks | Eric Stark of Slate
Is social media a distribution channel or the heartbeat of your brand? This week, we’re joined by Eric Stark, co-founder of Slate and former NFL social leader, to unpack why most brands are fundamentally looking at social the wrong way. Eric dives into the transition from "posting for performance" to "creating for brand longevity," offering a masterclass in building creative wo
The "Appeal to Everyone" Trap: Why Segmented Ads Win the Super Bowl | Nataly Kelly of Zappi
In this bonus episode, we’re joined by Nataly Kelly, CMO of Zappi, to dissect the data behind the biggest advertising night of the year: Super Bowl LX. While the rest of the world is talking about celebrity cameos and "Free Bird" soundtracks, Zappi is looking at the numbers that actually move the needle. Nataly shares exclusive insights from their testing of Budweiser’s "American Ic
A Masterclass in Brand Longevity, Global Growth and Becoming a Category Leader | Jackie Widmann of BERO Brewing
In this episode of Marketing Happy Hour, we’re sitting down with Jackie Widmann, the SVP of Marketing and Commercial at BERO Brewing, to go behind the scenes of one of the buzziest names in the non-alcoholic space. Recorded fresh off the heels of Dry January 2026, Jackie breaks down the intensive, months-long planning required to own the "Super Bowl" of the non-alc industry. We dive deep
Why Video Builds Trust Faster Than Any Other Marketing Channel | Kendall Breitman of Riverside
In this episode, we’re joined by Kendall Breitman, Community Lead at Riverside.fm, to unpack what it really takes to build meaningful community in a noisy, content-saturated world. A former reporter turned community builder, Kendall shares why trust has to come before tactics, why video is one of the most powerful tools for connection when used with intention, and how brands and creators can stop
4 Marketing Lessons from Disney (and the Power of Storytelling — from “Disneyland Handcrafted”)
In this episode, Ally and I break down the marketing and brand lessons hidden inside Disneyland Handcrafted, the new documentary directed by Leslie Iwerks that captures the extraordinary effort, craftsmanship, and storytelling behind the creation of Disneyland. Using never-before-seen footage and audio, the film elevates the often unnamed people who brought Walt Disney’s impossible idea to life —
Inclusive and Timeless Marketing: The Playbook from Laura Geller Beauty | Laura Geller + Sara Mitzner
Laura Geller’s love of beauty began backstage on Broadway and behind the scenes with celebrities — but her true passion has always been making makeup work for real women. That belief led her to launch Laura Geller Beauty, a brand rooted in simplicity, inclusivity, and confidence at every age.In this episode, we’re joined by Laura Geller, Founder, and Sara Mitzner, VP of Marketing, to discuss how t
Marketing Trends & Predictions for 2026
In this episode of Marketing Happy Hour, we’re officially closing out our biggest year yet and looking ahead to what’s next. We reflect on key milestones from 2025 — bringing Ally on as co-host, partnering with brands like Vayner and Digital Summit, expanding our speaking and workshop opportunities, and continuing our mission to deliver actionable insights that help you grow your marketing career.
How Brands Can Win in the Creator Economy | Stephanie Sandbo of LTK
In this episode of Marketing Happy Hour, I’m joined by Stephanie Sandbo, Chief Revenue Officer at LTK, to break down where the creator economy is headed, and what brands need to understand to succeed in it. As AI accelerates content creation and campaign execution, Stephanie explains why trust, authenticity, and real community remain the most valuable currencies for both creators and brands. We di
3 Skills That Will Make or Break Your Marketing Career (Rewind)
REWIND EPISODE: In this solo episode, I dive into the three critical skills every marketer needs to develop continuously: Copywriting, Relationship-Building, and Adaptability. Inspired by a listener's question, we explore how these skills not only form the foundation for successful marketing careers but also remain vital throughout a marketer's journey. Whether you're just starting or
Lessons on Brand Agility & Marketing Innovation | Lisa Bubbers of Studs and Orchestra
In this episode of Marketing Happy Hour, Cassie and Ally sit down with Lisa Bubbers — Chief Brand Officer at Orchestra and Co-Founder of Studs — for a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how the world’s most culturally relevant brands are built. Lisa breaks down the real story behind Studs’ breakout success, the early risks that paid off, and how she now leads strategy for a portfolio of ambitious bra
Building a Social Media Strategy for a Global, Legacy Brand | Elizabeth Thompson of National Geographic
In this episode, we sit down with Elizabeth Thompson, Senior Manager of Social Media at National Geographic, who leads strategy for one of the largest social ecosystems in the world—over 400 million followers across platforms. Elizabeth shares the career journey that took her from freelancer to running social for one of the most iconic storytelling brands, including how she grew Nat Geo’s Instagra
The Playbook for Modern Brand Partnerships (and Cultural Relevance) | Mike Tresvant of Complex
What does it take to build a brand that doesn’t just cover culture—but defines it? In this episode, we sit down with Mike Tresvant, EVP of Brand Partnerships at Complex, to unpack how the iconic media brand continues to thrive in a shifting digital landscape. From ComplexCon’s 300+ brand activations to the company’s resurgence post-acquisition, Mike shares how a challenger mindset, authentic story
How to Nail Your Next Job Interview with the Three Cs
In this episode, Cassie and Ally sit down to unpack what it really takes to stand out in today’s competitive job market. After being laid off in early 2025, Ally found herself navigating interviews from a new perspective—and along the way, she discovered a framework that reshaped the way she communicates her strengths and value: The Three Cs—Clarity, Conviction, and Concise. Together, they break d
How Social Media is Redefining PR and Brand Credibility | Casey Madsen of VaynerX
In a digital world where 85% of young adults get their news from social media but only 5% trust it, brands face an unprecedented challenge: building credibility in an algorithm-driven landscape. In this episode, we’re joined by Casey Madsen of Vayner, who breaks down insights from their latest research on the state of PR, content, and consumer trust. We discuss how “earned media” and influencer st
The State of Marketing Careers in 2025: Burnout, AI, and the Path Forward
In this episode, Cassie reflects on six years of consulting, the evolution of marketing careers, and what it really takes to grow (without burning out) in 2026 and beyond. From the rise of AI to the importance of human connection, we’re talking about how to stay adaptable, keep learning, and find new inspiration in your work. Cassie shares her own career pivots, lessons from the Digital Summit in
How Ronald McDonald House Is Modernizing Storytelling for a New Generation
What happens when one of the most iconic nonprofits in the world reimagines its brand for a new generation? In this episode, we sit down with Joanna Sabato, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Ronald McDonald House, to explore the strategy and storytelling behind the organization’s bold new “Family Stays” campaign. From evolving a legacy brand and reaching Gen Z and Millennial audiences,
Social Media Algorithm Updates and AI-Driven Creative | Digital Summit Philadelphia 2025
Ally takes the host seat to debrief with Cassie on her recent trip to Digital Summit in Philadelphia. Digital Summit is where digital marketing leaders connect, learn and obtain resources to inspire and enable a growth mindset. We discuss Cassie’s learnings from various sessions and workshops across AI, innovation, digital marketing and culture. Key Takeaways:// Create for discovery. Not your foll
How Taylor Swift Builds Loyalty and Hype (and What Brands Can Learn)
Taylor Swift isn’t just breaking records—she’s redefining what it means to market in the digital age. In this episode, Cassie and Ally unpack the marketing brilliance behind Taylor’s Eras Tour and beyond, exploring how she uses storytelling, connection, and innovation to keep her audience engaged. From live Easter eggs to building anticipation through mystery and intrigue, we break down the strate
The Brand Brief Audit: What Every Marketer Should Rethink | Kahlea Wade, Agency Founder + Creator
What does it take to thrive in today’s creator economy? Kahlea Wade, CEO and Founder of Alora Society, an award-winning influencer talent agency, joins me to break down what’s working (and not working) in influencer marketing in 2025. With experience leading campaigns for brands like Meta, Nike, Amazon Prime, and Skims, Kahlea shares how brands can write better briefs, why LinkedIn is becoming a p
Building Cultural Relevance Through Influencers and Celebrities | Bette Ann Fialkov, Fractional Head of Influencer Marketing Bette
In this episode of Marketing Happy Hour, we’re joined by Bette Ann Fialkov, Fractional Head of Influencer Marketing and Professor at Parsons, who has led influencer and celebrity partnership strategies for powerhouse brands including Google, Lyft, and Hims & Hers. With nearly 15 years of experience, Bette Ann shares the playbook for building and scaling influencer programs, the lessons she’s l
Inside the Evolving World of Influencer Marketing with WIIM’s Jessy Grossman
This week on Marketing Happy Hour, we’re joined by Jessy Grossman, Founder of Women in Influencer Marketing (WIIM). From building one of the fastest-growing influencer talent agencies in under two years to creating a global community that empowers women in the influencer marketing space, Jessy has been at the forefront of industry innovation. In this conversation, she shares her career journey, th
From Culture to Conversions: Maximizing Tentpole Moments | David Pangilinan of Paramount Advertising
In this final episode of our POSSIBLE series, we sit down with David Pangilinan, Senior Manager of Audience Impact and Intelligence at Paramount Advertising, to explore how brands can win big by leveraging tentpole moments. From live events and major film releases to cultural shifts that dominate the headlines, Paramount has perfected the art of turning high-profile moments into powerful opportuni
Building Brand Loyalty Through Nostalgia and Fandoms | Ilana Gelfand of The Walt Disney Company
Ally and I sit down with Ilana Gelfand, Senior Manager, Global Social Strategy at Disney Consumer Products. With 12+ years of experience in marketing and social media, Ilana has led creative content and brand strategy for some of the world’s most popular brands, including Disney and Loungefly. We discuss Ilana’s illustrious career in selling a lifestyle over a product and how the organic positioni
10 Social Media Storytelling Tips from Disney [Part 2]
Part 2 - This week’s episode is inspired by an incredible guest essay from Jonathan Hurwitz, Emmy-nominated writer and creative consultant, originally featured in Rachel Karten’s Substack, Link in Bio. Jonathan spent a decade writing at Disney, and in that time, he picked up storytelling lessons that translate seamlessly into social media marketing. These tips—distilled from a presentation he gave
10 Social Media Storytelling Tips from Disney [Part 1]
Ally and I debrief a recent guest essay from Jonathan Hurwitz, Emmy-nominated writer and creative consultant from Rachel Karten’s Substack, Link in Bio. Jonathan spent 10 years writing at Disney - and through this essay, shares how to apply his learnings from Disney to social media marketing. In part 1 of this 2-part episode, we discuss the first 5 storytelling tips from the essay and break down r
The Strategies You Need for Brand Communications and PR | Kamara Turner of Walgreens
Kamara Turner, Brand Communications Manager at Walgreens, joins me for a deep dive into the ever-evolving world of retail PR and brand storytelling. With a track record spanning iconic campaigns—from launching OTC NARCAN to the buzzworthy Nice! Mango Gummies—Kamara shares the behind-the-scenes insights on how she builds integrated strategies that generate results. We discuss the power of niche cre
The Future of Social Listening (AI for Consumer Insights) | Megan Duong of Plot
In this episode, I sit down with Megan Duong, the CEO and co-founder of Plot, an AI-powered social video listening tool backed by Alexis Ohanian’s Seven Seven Six. With a background in brand marketing at Apple and years leading her own agency, Megan brings a rare mix of creative intuition and data fluency to the table. We dive into how short-form video is changing the way we understand consumer be
The New Rules of Retail Media (Partnerships and Data) with Lauren Griewski, Chase Media Solutions
Lauren joins Ally and I for the latest episode of our POSSIBLE event series. Lauren dives into her extensive career in sales, technology and media across some of the world’s leading platforms - and what ultimately brought her to Chase Media Solutions. We discuss the importance of hyper-personalization and what marketers should be leveraging in their strategies to stand out in a crowded retail medi
Partner Marketing 101: How to Build Strategic Brand Relationships
Ally and I dive into a never-before-discussed topic for Marketing Happy Hour - Partner Marketing. Ally discusses how her career led her to lead the first Partner Marketing function at TIDAL and how industries are recognizing Partner Marketing as a vital piece of the marketing ecosystem. We discuss the nuances between Partner Marketing and Brand Partnerships, how Partner Marketing can serve as an i
Dig Inn’s Recipe for Community, Loyalty, and Storytelling | Jessica Serrano, CMO
Ally and I continue our POSSIBLE 2025 conference series by sitting down with Jessica Serrano, Chief Marketing Officer of Dig Inn. Jessica shares the unique challenges that come with localized marketing, strategies for building a strong loyalty program and tips for aspiring CMOs. Dig Inn is a fast casual, scratch food restaurant concept with locations from New York, NY to Washington D.C. Key Takeaw
Career Strategy: Relationships as a Vehicle for Success | Stephanie Lawrence of Nextdoor
The POSSIBLE 2025 conference series continues with Stephanie Lawrence-Shartrand from Nextdoor. With over 20 years of experience in digital media, strategy, and customer success, Stephanie is a passionate leader and advocate for the power of online communities and social networks. Stephanie joins Ally and I to share her strategies for building strong, lasting professional relationships, including h
What Gen-Z Considers Entertainment (+ The Formula for Engaging, Short-Form Content) | Michael Vito Valentino of NowThis
I sat down with co-host Ally Golden and Michael Vito Valentino, Editor in Chief at NowThis for Episode 2 of the POSSIBLE 2025 conference series. Gen Z is redefining what “entertainment” means in the 21st century. We discuss the serialized content approach Michael and his team are taking at NowThis and how it’s paving the way for brand loyalty with Gen-Z females. Additionally, we explore the evolvi
Top 3 Marketing Trends to Watch in Late 2025
I’m joined by my friend and fellow marketer Ally Golden for Episode 1 of our POSSIBLE 2025 conference series. The POSSIBLE conference brings together key decision-makers and rising marketers through 3 days of learning and networking. Ally and I were lucky to attend several interactive sessions and masterclass conversations that fostered meaningful connections among industry leaders and innovators.
How to Build Insights-Driven Marketing Campaigns | Nataly Kelly of Zappi
What makes a great campaign truly effective? And how do you scale brand success globally without losing authenticity? In this episode, I sit down with Nataly Kelly, Chief Marketing Officer at Zappi, to unpack the new rules of marketing in a world powered by connected insights, AI, and always-on consumer data. Nataly shares highlights from Zappi’s State of Creative Effectiveness report, the inside
Breaking Into Entrepreneurship: Tips for Young Founders
Bonus: If you’ve ever dreamed of turning a personal story into a product — this episode is for you. I’m joined by Kristan Kelly, CEO and founder of Shade Rayz Sunscreen: a mission-driven brand born from her journey as a breast cancer survivor and Latina entrepreneur. In this mentorship-focused conversation, Kristan shares the real story of building her company from the ground up, how she tapped in
Social Media Strategy Check-in: Navigating Trends and More! | Holley Long of The Bump
How do you create content for an audience you're not part of—but still connect on a deep, emotional level? That’s the magic Holley Long brings to the table. As a Social Media Specialist for The Bump (part of The Knot Worldwide), Holley leads with curiosity, storytelling, and strategy. In this episode, we talk about what it takes to market life’s biggest milestones—from weddings to new parentho
The 2-Step System That Will Streamline Your Content Planning
Creating great content isn’t about waiting for inspiration — it’s about building a system that works. In this episode, I’m joined by my friends and fellow marketers Ally Golden and Rob Skinner to unpack their biggest takeaways from the Digital Summit, including a content framework by Melanie Deziel. We explore how Focus + Format can transform your content strategy and offer real-world examples of
The Brand-Creator Relationship Playbook | Lauren Giovannetti of Stan
In this episode, I dive into the real evolution of the creator economy with Lauren Giovannetti, Creator Marketing Manager at Stan and expert on monetization strategy. Lauren has spent years helping creators turn their audiences into sustainable businesses—and guiding brands on how to partner with them in more strategic, scalable ways. We break down creator storefronts, email list power, and what b
Where your Podcast Fits in Your Marketing Strategy | Kylee Chandler, Podcast Strategist
Is your podcast pulling its weight in your overall marketing strategy? In this episode, I sit down with podcast growth strategist Kylee Chandler, who’s helped industry giants like Amy Porterfield and Cathy Heller scale their shows into million-download machines. We talk about how to position your podcast as a key part of your brand's marketing ecosystem, the power of quizzes for list-building,
Why You Should Be Customer-Obsessed as a Brand Marketer | Paige McCloud of Victoria’s Secret
What does it really mean to be customer-obsessed in today’s ever-evolving brand landscape? In this episode, I sit down with Paige McCloud, Manager of Brand Strategy at Victoria’s Secret, to unpack how she builds consumer-first marketing strategies that blend data, creativity, and real-world experiences. From navigating experiential marketing to tracking emerging trends like AI and creator-led camp
Rewind: The New Rules of PR Strategy and Brand Communications | Kamara Turner of Walgreens
In this episode, we go behind the scenes with Kamara Turner, Communications Manager at Walgreens, to explore what it takes to build a PR strategy that actually moves the needle. With experience across top-tier brands like PepsiCo, Ulta Beauty, and Coca-Cola, Kamara shares how her agency and in-house roles have shaped her approach to storytelling, retail strategy, and media impact. We dive into wha
What Brands Get Wrong About Creator Partnerships | Carly Baker of HubSpot
What makes a media partnership actually work? In this episode, Carly Baker, Media Partnerships Lead at HubSpot Media Network, pulls back the curtain on what makes branded content succeed. With experience spanning talent management, business development, and audience growth across podcasts and YouTube, Carly shares what brands often get wrong when working with creators and how to think beyond vanit
How I Built a Career by Taking BIG Risks and Pitching Myself
In this solo episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the unexpected journey that’s brought me to where I am today—from pitching myself into my first full-time role, taking big risks in new cities, and leading teams at a young age, to launching a business and growing a podcast that changed everything. I’m sharing the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way: why nothing is permanent, how to pitc
The Formula for Standing Out in a Crowded Market | Lucas Kraft of Wonderbelly
In this episode, I sit down with Lucas Kraft, co-founder of Wonderbelly, the fastest-growing OTC digestive brand of 2024—known for its bold branding and clean, effective products. Lucas shares how his deeply personal recovery journey from an eating disorder led to the creation of a brand that’s rewriting the rules of wellness. We talk about what it really takes to build an authentic identity, how
How to Scale Your Influencer Marketing Collaborations | Theresa Gaarde of Popular Pays by Lightricks
BONUS Episode – Influencer marketing is more than just pretty photos and promo codes—it’s a business strategy. In this episode, I’m joined by Theresa Gaarde, Head of Sales & Partnerships for Popular Pays by Lightricks, a platform that helps brands scale and streamline creator collaborations. Theresa shares the biggest wins (and missteps) she’s seen brands make in the creator economy—from avoid
Recruiter Talks: Selling Yourself, Networking + Landing Roles | Kelly Gordon of Creative People
In this episode, I’m joined by Kelly Gordon, a recruiter at Creative People, to talk all things networking, personal branding, and how to stand out in today’s job market—all without sounding like everyone else in their DMs. Whether you're actively job hunting or just starting to think about your next move, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you build better connections, commu
Turning Community and Experiences into Brand Loyalty | Courtney Weis of FP Movement
Get job openings + marketing updates direct to your inbox, every Thursday: Join the email listHow do you take a brand from a category extension to a powerhouse of its own? Courtney Weis, Managing Director of Brand Marketing at FP Movement, joins us to break down how the brand evolved from Free People’s activewear line into a standalone force with over 50 stores. She shares the key strategies behin
Hate Networking? Here’s How to Build Connections That Open Doors
Solo Episode - Networking doesn’t have to feel awkward, forced, or transactional. In this episode, I’m breaking down how to build meaningful connections that actually lead to opportunities—without feeling weird about it. Whether you're a corporate marketer, an entrepreneur, or just starting out, I’ll share practical networking strategies you can use today.Key Takeaways:// Networking starts bef
Tips on Navigating the Job Market and Career Uncertainty
Trying to build a freelance business while job hunting? Feeling stuck in your career and unsure of your next move? You’re not alone. In this episode, I sit down with Ashley Cohen, a brand strategist and marketing consultant, who’s in the trenches figuring it all out.We get real about what it takes to stand out as a freelancer, price your work with confidence, and actually land clients. Ashley also
Marketing That Makes Your Brand Unforgettable | Katelynn Ludwig of DUDE Wipes
What does it take to build a bold, culturally relevant brand that people actually want to engage with? Katelynn Ludwig, Director of Brand Strategy at DUDE Wipes, joins me to share a peek behind the brands strategies across social media and content strategy, influencer marketing, PR, and brand activations. In this episode, Katelynn shares how DUDE Wipes keeps its audience hooked, maximizes influenc
How to Start a Podcast for Your Brand | Brad Chandler, Podcast Strategist
Thinking about launching a podcast for your brand but not sure where to start? This episode is your ultimate podcasting masterclass with Brad Chandler, Podcasting Strategist and Founder of Made by Varsity. We’re diving deep into why brands should be paying attention to podcasting, how to tackle the biggest hurdles, and what it takes to build a podcast that keeps listeners coming back.From choosing
Your 3-Step Personal Branding Framework (+ How to Own Your Career) | Sheena Hakimian of Condé Nast
Want to take control of your career? It starts with owning your personal brand, building confidence, and communicating your value—and today’s guest is here to show you how.Sheena Hakimian, marketing leader at Condé Nast and certified life coach, joins the show to break down her three-part framework for personal branding, how to clearly communicate your goals to leadership, and why becoming a probl
Content That Converts: Building Brand Loyalty & Community | Kyle Hagge of Morning Brew Inc.
How do you turn content into a thriving business? And more importantly—how do you do it while keeping your audience engaged, excited, and coming back for more?This week, we’re sitting down with Kyle Hagge, Chief of Staff at Morning Brew Inc., to dive deep into content strategy, email marketing, podcasting, and career growth in the media industry. Morning Brew has built a content empire with 15+ br
Smart Financial Habits for Young Professionals | Mike Quattrochi, Certified Financial Planner
BONUS Episode: Let’s talk about money—because let’s be real, balancing student loans, saving for the future, and actually enjoying life can feel overwhelming. That’s why we’re bringing you a special finance episode with Certified Financial Planner® Mike Quattrochi, a millennial leader who’s helping young professionals build financial wellness without the stress.In this episode, Mike breaks down th
Your Guide to Small Business Marketing | Brie Shouppe, Content Strategist
In this episode, I sit down with Brie Shouppe, a marketing expert and storytelling strategist who helps brands define their identity and craft compelling content. We dive into small business (and entrepreneur) social media strategies, brand messaging, and how to create content that truly connects with your audience.Brie shares insights on common branding mistakes, the importance of defining your &
Turning Customers into an Engaged Brand Community | Jess Druey of Whiny Baby
In this episode, we’re diving into brand community with Jess Druey, founder of Whiny Baby Wines—a brand that’s not just about great wine but about reimagining the wine experience for a new generation. Jess shares her journey from media and content production to launching her own wine brand, the strategies she’s used to introduce Whiny Baby to the market, and how she fosters connection both online
From 9-5 to Entrepreneur: Launching Your Own Marketing Business | Jamie Tjornehoj of Brand Bosses
Ready to trade your corporate 9-to-5 for a business of your own? Jamie Tjornehoj, founder of Brand Bosses, shares her journey from corporate marketing manager to thriving entrepreneur. In this episode, we dive into the key elements of building a standout brand, the digital marketing trends businesses can’t afford to miss, and Jamie’s top advice for anyone ready to take the leap into entrepreneursh
The Guide to Using Humor in Your Content (+ Scaling Email) | Aidan Brannigan of No Boring Brands
How to grow your audience and your brand with humor – This week, I’m chatting with Aidan Brannigan, founder of No Boring Brands and former Marketing Millennials’ strategist, who scaled social followings to over a million and crafted email campaigns that drove six-figure ticket sales. Aidan shares his journey from working with top startups to building a humor-based agency for B2B brands. Learn how
How Storytelling will Transform Your Brand Marketing Strategy | Dr. J.J. Peterson of StoryBrand
Dr. J.J. Peterson, Head of StoryBrand, joins me to discuss the power of storytelling in brand strategy. Dr. Peterson unpacks the StoryBrand framework, a proven method that has helped organizations simplify their messaging and grow their businesses. We dive into why humans are hardwired to respond to stories, how clarity in messaging drives customer engagement, and the critical elements of a websit
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