Episodes

  • “Yes And” Thinking for Bold Brands

    “Yes And” Thinking for Bold Brands
    Apr 28 2025
    Kathy Klotz-Guest is Founder of Keeping It Human—a consultancy helping teams at Google, Amazon, and Wells Fargo ditch rigid thinking and spark bold breakthroughs with humor and improv. With 20 years in global tech and 25 years on comedy stages, Kathy brings laughs and innovation to business. We explored it all this week on the On Brand podcast. About Kathy Klotz-Guest Kathy Klotz-Guest, MA, MBA, is Founder of Keeping it Human (keepingithuman.com). She combines 20 years marketing and innovation leadership in Global Tech with 25 years of storytelling on improv and comedy stages. When companies and leaders at places including Google, Amazon, or Wells Fargo want to bust rigid thinking, fear, perceived limits and experience bold creative breakthroughs while laughing, they call Kathy. A top selling Amazon author ("Stop Boring Me") and comedian, Kathy is a professional speaker and expert in improv and humor in business and life. And you can still catch her on comedy stages. From the Show What brand has made Kathy smile recently? Kathy pointed us to the engaging and humorous social media accounts from Lake Michigan, Lake Superior, and the other Great Lakes. “They had these lake roast battles that were great!” She also shouted out Liquid Death's "Kegs for Pregs" ad, which reinforced the brand's “Hell yeah, this is who we are persona.” Connect with Kathy on LinkedIn and check out the Keeping it Human website. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    35 mins
  • Why Brands Need to Be Entertaining (or Be Ignored)

    Why Brands Need to Be Entertaining (or Be Ignored)
    Apr 21 2025
    Dan Salkey is Founder & Strategy Partner at Small World—a creative consultancy redefining industry norms with entertainment-first marketing. By curating bespoke teams from 200+ top talents in entertainment, art, and tech, Small World delivers unforgettable brand experiences. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Dan Salkey Dan Salkey, ex-Adidas, is the Founder and Strategy Partner of Small World, an innovative creative consultancy that’s redefining the industry standard. Dan specializes in entertainment-first marketing and the creative tactics necessary to build an entertainment-first brand. At its core, Small World is pioneering a new creative model. By assembling bespoke teams from a curated roster of 200+ top-tier unstandard talent across entertainment, art, and technology, the company creates marketing experiences that feel as intrinsic and memorable as the products themselves. From the Show What brand has made Dan smile recently? Dan tweaked my question by providing a household brand (Oatley “an enlightened zagger” and their new campaign), a startup brand (another oat-themed company, Oat Cult!), and a personal brand (the artist Jon Bellion) that have made him smile. Connect with Dan on LinkedIn and check out the Small World website. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    36 mins
  • Where Beer Runs Meet Brand Strategy

    Where Beer Runs Meet Brand Strategy
    Apr 14 2025
    Dana Hork, Founder & CEO of Beers With Friends, joins me to share how her agile creative agency helps challenger brands solve big problems in just five days. A brand leader, entrepreneur, and storyteller, Dana has held roles at Wonder, Walmart, Jet.com, PepsiCo, and JPMorgan—and has been featured in TIME, Forbes, and Ad Age. We discussed all of this and more this week on the show. About Dana Hork Dana Hork is the Founder & CEO of Beers With Friends, an agile creative agency that helps challenger brands solve high-stakes problems in just five days. A brand leader, entrepreneur, and storyteller, Dana partners with CMOs and marketing leaders to deliver impactful brand solutions quickly and without the bureaucracy of traditional agencies. She has held leadership roles at Wonder, Walmart, Jet.com, PepsiCo, and JPMorgan. Dana holds an MBA from Harvard, an MPA from Columbia, and a BA from the University of Pennsylvania. A frequent speaker and podcast guest, she has been featured in TIME, Forbes, and Ad Age. From the Show What brand has made Dana smile recently? Dana shared a recent brand collaboration that made her smile. Connect with Dana on LinkedIn and check out the Beers With Friends website. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    28 mins
  • H&R Block on Reinventing Relevance for Gen Z

    H&R Block on Reinventing Relevance for Gen Z
    Apr 7 2025
    Jill Cress, Chief Marketing and Experience Officer at H&R Block, is a visionary marketer with 30+ years of experience in financial services, media, and tech. She’s led brand transformations at PayPal, National Geographic, and MasterCard and now focuses on modernizing H&R Block, enhancing customer experience, and driving growth. Recognized as one of the world’s top CMOs, Jill excels at connecting brands with consumers in meaningful ways. About Jill Cress Jill Cress is an innovative marketer and strategist who pushes boundaries as the Chief Marketing and Experience Officer for H&R Block. She leads a dynamic team invested in transforming customer experience, modernizing and infusing its brand into highly relevant channels, and amplifying strategic marketing and communications efforts to deliver growth. For more than 30 years, Cress has honed her skills as a strategic and passionate consumer, B2B marketer, and experience strategist with deep expertise in financial services, media and technology. She has held leadership roles across marketing, general management, product and enterprise strategy at leading Fortune 500 Companies. Prior to H&R Block, Cress served as vice president of brand marketing for PayPal, where she also had responsibility for all Venmo marketing. She was also the chief marketing and communications officer at National Geographic Partners and served for more than 20 years at MasterCard Worldwide. There, she held executive leadership roles in strategy and marketing and served as country general manager for the United Kingdom and Ireland. Cress serves on the boards of the Ad Council and the Wealth Enhancement Group, an independent wealth management firm overseeing more than $96 billion in client assets. She has been recognized for numerous accolades, including Adweek’s inaugural Marketing Vanguard list, New York Women in Communications’ Matrix Award Honoree, Business Insider’s 25 Most Innovative CMOs, Forbes’ World’s 50 Most Influential CMOs, the CMO Next List, and the Entrepreneurial CMO 50. Cress holds a bachelor’s degree from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University. She is a self-described “explorer at heart” who loves experiencing new places and brands that connect with consumers in exciting ways. A resident of New York, Cress enjoys spending free time exploring the city and travelling the world with her husband, Todd, and daughter Beatrix. From the Show What brand has made Jill smile recently? Jill shared a recent “morning after the Oscars” smile from McDonald's, when the fast food brand shared what winners like Kieran Culkin might order after their big night. Connect with Jill on LinkedIn and check out the H&R Block website. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network.  Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    32 mins
  • How to Connect with Red and Blue Customers

    How to Connect with Red and Blue Customers
    Mar 31 2025
    Chris Peterson, Co-Founder of Lifemind, is a marketing pioneer with over 30 years of experience shaping the digital landscape. Author of Red & Blue Customers, Chris has built and sold two innovative agencies, earning recognition from The Wall Street Journal and working with both Fortune 500 brands and fast-growth startups. In this episode of On Brand, we discuss his insights on the evolving digital landscape and how brands can better connect with customers in an increasingly divided world. About Chris Peterson Chris Peterson is the Co-Founder of Lifemind, an AI-agent platform designed for national, local, and regional marketers. With over 30 years as a marketing pioneer and entrepreneur, Chris has founded two digital marketing agencies, working with fast-growing startups and Fortune 500 companies. In the 1990s, he launched one of the first digital direct marketing agencies, earning recognition from The Wall Street Journal. Publicis Groupe later acquired the agency. Chris later established an early content marketing agency before the term became mainstream, which was then acquired by Rain, a direct-to-consumer advertising agency. He's also the author of the book Red & Blue Customers. From the Show What brand has made Chris smile recently? Chris shared the smiles that he gets from his beloved New Balance sneakers, which he's delighted to see are back in style! Connect with Chris on LinkedIn and check out the Lifemind website, including the special offer for listeners at lifemind.ai/onbrand. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    34 mins
  • Growing Your Brand with Referrals & Relationships

    Growing Your Brand with Referrals & Relationships
    Mar 24 2025
    Scott Grates is a visionary entrepreneur and expert in strategic relationship marketing, building multiple seven-figure businesses, including top insurance agencies and a real estate portfolio. He helps entrepreneurs grow through his Infinite Referral Advantage® system and is the bestselling author of Essential F-words for Teens and the upcoming Referrals Done Right. A podcast host and sought-after speaker, his upcoming TEDx talk, Silence That Voice, explores overcoming self-doubt for entrepreneurial success. About Scott Grates Scott Grates is a visionary entrepreneur and expert in strategic relationship marketing, having built multiple 7-figure businesses, including nationally recognized insurance agencies and a thriving real estate portfolio. A firm believer in the power of personal connections over digital noise, Scott helps entrepreneurs grow through his innovative Infinite Referral Advantage® system. He is the bestselling author of Essential F-words for Teens and the upcoming Referrals Done Right, as well as a podcast host and sought-after speaker. His upcoming TEDx talk, Silence That Voice, will explore overcoming self-doubt to achieve entrepreneurial success. From the Show What brand has made Scott smile recently? Scott echoed the smile of another recent guest, Scott Monty, by sharing a handwritten smile he received from Delta Airlines. Connect with Scott on LinkedIn and his website ScottGrates.com. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    30 mins
  • Talk to Your Customers, Transform Your Brand

    Talk to Your Customers, Transform Your Brand
    Mar 17 2025
    Nicole Powell is a certified brand strategist and neuromarketer who blends science-backed insights with creative storytelling. As the founder of HALCON Marketing Solutions, she brings over 16 years of experience from Disney, ESPN, and Fox Networks. Born in Manila and raised in the Bronx, her multicultural background shapes her innovative approach to marketing and leadership. Now based in St. Louis, Nicole helps brands stand out by merging data-driven strategy with human psychology. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Nicole Powell Nicole Powell is the founder of HALCON Marketing Solutions and a certified brand strategist with 16 years of experience at Disney, ESPN, and Fox Networks. Born in Manila and raised in the Bronx, this St. Louis entrepreneur balances running her agency with raising two toddlers while empowering businesses to thrive through her unique blend of instinct and creative flair. Nicole Powell is a certified brand strategist and neuromarketer who brings a unique blend of science-backed insights and creative storytelling to the marketing industry. As the founder of HALCON Marketing Solutions, she leverages over 16 years of experience working with media giants like Disney, ESPN, and Fox Networks. Born in Manila and raised in the Bronx, Nicole's multicultural background has shaped her innovative approach to marketing and leadership. Now based in St. Louis, she successfully balances running her agency while raising two toddlers, embodying the modern entrepreneur who combines professional excellence with personal fulfillment. From the Show What brand has made Nicole smile recently? Nicole told a story of a recent trip to a Lego experience with her two sons in Washington D.C. She also reminded us that the brand's continued focus on play is a big part of why it's stood the test of time. Connect with Nicole on LinkedIn and Instagram and check out the HALCON Marketing Solutions website. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    30 mins
  • The Work Talk Show Returns (Kind of)

    The Work Talk Show Returns (Kind of)
    Mar 10 2025
    This week on On Brand, we’re shaking things up with a very special guest—DJ Waldow! Longtime listeners may remember that DJ and I co-hosted The Work Talk Show, a podcast all about how work gets done today. Tune in as we reminisce, share some laughs, and make a special announcement about the show. Subscribe to the Work Talk Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you like to listen. About DJ Waldow DJ Waldow is a freelance writer specializing in all things words. He's a father of 4 (including twins), husband to one, and an alum of the University of Michigan. DJ is a self-proclaimed giphy master and #HashtagAddict. For 100 (or so) episodes, he was my co-host on my very first podcast The Work Talk Show! From the Show What brand has made DJ smile recently? DJ pointed us to client experience platform Boulevard—a consistent and human source of smiles for DJ in the digitally disconnected world we find ourselves in. Connect with DJ on LinkedIn and, of course, find the Work Talk Show on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, or wherever you like to listen. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    46 mins
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