Ad Age Marketer's Brief: Recent Episodes
E.J. Schultz
A weekly look at the stories making waves across the marketing industry featuring discussions with newsmakers and Ad Age reporters.
CMO Laura Jones talks about 90s-era prices, Super Bowl advertising and in-house agencies
We take the temperature on the marketing job market with Michael Wright, founder of executive search firm Taligence. What industries are hiring? What is the future of the CMO role? Why are companies not hiring agency execs as CMOs? We cover that and more.
Stateside Brands President Matt Quigley discusses the fast-growing ready-to-drink brand.
Nothing's Hollie Bishop joins the Marketer's Brief podcast to discuss the importance of earned media when marketing its new phones.
CEO Jolie Weber joins the Marketer’s Brief podcast to discuss the brand’s partnerships and new look
Jerret West talks targeting, how the platform decides when to leverage cultural moments and the likelihood it will pursue a movie a la Minecraft.
Roundel’s Monique Perlmutter on scaling retail media through omnichannel strategy and trust.
CEO of Dropps was also CEO of Method during its early rise and looks to repeat success in green household products as the brand moves into retail stores.
Rachael Zaluzec, VW of America's senior vice president of customer experience and brand marketing, discusses VW’s SNL partnership, integration marketing and customer service and how the brand is approaching EV marketing.
CMO Olga Suvorova joins the Marketer’s Brief podcast to talk about creators and use cases for Galaxy AI
CMO Radhika Duggal on how data and testing guide quick decisions—and what the 2026 World Cup could mean for the league
CMO Nick Chavez joins the Marketer’s Brief podcast to discuss the chain’s customizable drinks and local media strategy
CMO Merit Tully discusses the ‘Orange Country’ reinvention, recalling the mighty Disney era—with a bite
VP of partnerships Nick Kelly on how the brand thinks about Big Game advertising and its strategy for Super Bowl LIX
Chief Corporate Brand Officer Lina Polimeni talks about how the brand differentiates itself in the crowded pharma market
President of North America family care on refreshing the logo of a 100-year-old brand, the value of a brand where emotion comes naturally, and why he really isn’t rooting for a bad cold and flu season.
Aron North, Mint's strategic advisor and former CMO, outlines the brand's marketing approach on the Marketer's Brief podcast
Casey Lewis, author of youth trends newsletter After School, looks back on the most viral social media trends of 2024 and how they shaped brand marketing
Branding expert David Placek came on the Marketer’s Brief podcast to discuss the dos and don’ts of naming AI products and services
Aba Blankson, chief marketing and communications officer of the NAACP, discusses the organization’s largest advertising effort to date
Four-year-old brand strives to bridge the communication gap around female-focused health care
TransUnion’s Marc Vermut shares how you’ll maximize ad spend by speaking to the right people
Tara McRae talks about Puma’s recent Olympics push and how the brand collaborates with partners such as Rihanna
Joanne Davis, author of the new book "How to Get Your Agency to Jump Through Brick Walls—Without Paying More," shares lessons learned over 24 years in the agency search consulting business, including how to create effective briefs and what do do in the face of executive turnover. She also gives her take on what the rise of project work means for the business.
Jason Miller, head of partnerships for Excel, on forging ties between brands, teams, and fans
VP Allyse Slocum explores the power of reviews, trust signals and insights in enhancing business performance
Beano Brain’s Helenor Gilmour talks about why brands such as YouTube are resonating with Gen Alpha and how the group is different from Gen Z
Joanne Hsu, Senior Brand Marketing Manager at Hi-Chew's parent company Morinaga America, Inc., breaks down how Chewbie was born.
Chief marketing officer Jim Mollica talks creators and cultural moments to drive awareness for the Ultra Open headphones
CMO David Sandstrom explains the fintech company’s generative AI strategy and recent moves into traditional banking
Paul Basford of William Grant & Sons discusses marketing strategies and industry trends
CMO joins the Marketer’s Brief podcast to discuss the chain’s media mix and updated loyalty program
CMO Ilona Aman discusses Athleta’s recent Olympics campaign and back-to-school shopping
GoGo Squeez CMO joins the Marketer’s Brief podcast to discuss how these new consumers are helping the brand grow up and spur new products
The ice cream maker has had to balance is social justice views and being part of a packaged food giant
Chief marketer behind Lysol, Mucinex and Airwick describes how company is using AI to mine insights, measure media effectiveness and more.
Vinay Shahani, senior VP for U.S. sales and marketing at Nissan Americas, on recapturing the automaker’s marketing edge and how it is approaching sports marketing.
Social media managers Kerrie Longo and Davis Miller talk about working with other brands, TikTok Shop, and what’s next for Scrub Daddy.
CMO Jenn Garbach discusses the new work and how PNC competes with big budget bank rivals
Senior VP of Business Daniel Folkman breaks down the delivery brand’s strategy, recent campaign efforts and where it sees growth
Ford Global Chief Marketing Officer Lisa Materazzo on how the automaker is staying flexible among EV slowdown and what it is doing to reach new audiences, including Gen Z.
Do influencers actually get to move for free these days? Piece of Cake Chief Marketing Officer Najah Ayoub has the answer to that question and many more influencer marketing queries.
Mercedes-Benz USA CMO Melody Lee on how the automaker is marketing EVs, hybrids and gas-powered SUVs at once as the electric market slows down. She also updates us on the brand’s sports marketing approach.
Rachel Keeton discusses reviving the Project Pabst music festival, returning to growth, and drawing on the passion of PBR fans
Karen Riley-Grant talks about what’s ahead for Vuori, including its media strategy, upcoming 10-year anniversary and store expansion
Global CMO Adrian Fung talks about AI tools, eBay’s media review and generational trends
JM Smucker’s CMO joins the Marketer’s Brief podcast to discuss how the company has shaken up its older brands, including Jif and Uncrustables.
Chief Growth Officer Lee Anne Grant talks about the company’s evolution, new showroom and use of AI
Thomson Reuters CMO David Carrel discusses the news, legal, and tax brand's new logo, philosophy, and colors—and why now was the right time to roll them out.
Executive Creative Director Lindsay St. Clair talks about why approachability in a brand is important for young shoppers
‘Emotional innovation’ including a mental-health partnership will lift Happy coffee, Dubitsky says
CMO Joe Cano talks about the Amazon-owned brand’s inclusive marketing and what’s ahead for Zappos’ anniversary
Vericast Senior VP Marc Mathies on what happens when third-party cookies disappear—and how marketers can prepare their brand’s data strategy.
VAB CEO Sean Cunningham on why and how marketers should get more involved with measurement and media, disconnects between marketers and agencies in a new survey, and his falling out with the Association of National Advertisers.
Chief Marketing Officer Jill McVicar Nelson talks working with Ben Affleck’s agency, Gen Z, and why the brand is focusing on bigger cultural moments on the Marketer’s Brief podcast
After recently acquiring Radisson, the hotelier is integrating its marketing and technology
CMO Michelle Peterson talks about how marketing has helped grow the 22-year-old brand and what’s ahead
Andrea Fairchild, SVP of global sponsorship strategy, discusses a title sponsorship with Red Bull and how sports partnerships are changing
The Weather Company CMO Randi Stipes discusses how the owner of Weather Channel app is providing data to clients to help them adjust marketing based on the weather, as climate change changes patterns. Plus, she previews new app functionality that goes beyond basic weather forecasts.
Dr. Squatch had a Super Bowl ad three years ago, and while it’s never been back has tripled sales since then. Head of brand marketing John Ludeke talks about why thumb wrestling tournaments, odd sounding scents and sports marketing work.
Founders Allison Luvera and Lauren De Niro Pipher on how savvy branding techniques can make a product seem more luxurious and the unique strategy Juliet is using to enter physical retailers as it transitions away from being 100% DTC.
Ad Age's E.J. Schultz and Adrianne Pasquarelli discuss Ad Age's annual ranking of the brands that excelled during the year, including three companies, one sports league and one person.
Under its first CMO, the brand is trying to engage new consumers and still drive loyalty with older fans
Joahne Carter, commercial leader of oral care at Kenvue, marketer of Listerine, talks about why the brand addressed the lack of Black professionals in dentistry.
The streamer’s CMO Nicole Parlapiano is focused on building the platform’s brand while competitors go for content trailers and sizzles.
Recess Founder and CEO Ben Witte discusses how the brand has tackled its recent product and retail expansion strategy
TBA Group CEO Guy Horner on the Las Vegas Grand Prix and how brands can connect to new fans across America.
The retailer has revamped its loyalty program and added more digital offerings following its Adore Me acquisition
Gary Osifchin, chief marketing officer and general manager of U.S. hygiene for Reckitt, talks about how he juggles performance marketing and brand building, won top honors for inclusive advertising for Lysol and Air Wick, and revamped his media team to reflect the growing role of retail media and e-commerce.
CMO Tim Ellis discusses influencers, social media and showing a more ‘playful’ side of the league
Evan Jones, chief marketing officer of Fender Music, discusses how he works to make the biggest and arguably most legendary brand in guitars even bigger. It’s a tough job for a 77-year-old company whose Stratocaster has been a mainstay at least since Buddy Holly in the 1950s, used later by Jimi Hendrix, the Beatles and Bob Dylan among countless others.
Accessories label Susan Alexandra's founder Susan Korn joins the Marketer's Brief podcast to give us a behind the scenes look at how the brand's recent partnerships with companies such as Sweetgreen and New Balance came together.
Roxy Young, Reddit’s chief marketing and consumer experience officer, talks about how advertisers such as Visit Myrtle Beach and Oatly are not afraid to leave the comments on; and her favorite debates on certain subreddits.
CMO Lisa Pillette talks about how Fossil is staying modern with new collaborations and marketing
Austin Leonard, head of sales for Sam’s Club MAP, discusses getting a revamped retail media network off the ground, the value of third-party measurement in the business and the impact of letting brands re-target on the open web based on club store purchase data.
Applied Design’s Brad Scott joins the Marketer’s Brief podcast to talk about the challenges and benefits of including accessible elements in design
Ryan Babenzien, co-founder and CEO of Jolie, talks about why he made the decision to market his shower head brand as a beauty and wellness company.
Malibu marketing VP Matt Foley talks about playing to the brand’s strengths, including two remakes of ‘Escape (The Pina Colada Song)’
Spin Master’s new CMO Jeremy Tucker talks about marketing brands such as Paw Patrol and what’s ahead for the holiday season
Marissa Hunter, senior VP of Marketing for Stellantis North America, whose brands include Jeep, Ram, Chrysler, Dodge and FIAT, joins the pod to discuss the automaker's agency approach, how it views Twitter and Threads, and how brands must operate in today's politically charged environment.
Marketing Exec Kelly Colbert joins the Marketer’s Brief to discuss the brand’s recent ‘Translators’ campaign
Nick Scarpino, SVP of Marketing & Off-Premise Dining at Portillo’s, talks data and the crucial role of social media
Carla Dunham joined the DTC brand earlier this year and is already making marketing changes
VP and Head of Brand Jaclyn Ruelle talks about how Papa Johns tapped celebrities for its Doritos Cool Ranch Papadia campaign and how the brand attracts customers in a crowded category.
Chief Brand Officer Amy Smith talks about Toms’ mental health awareness campaign and its Pride Month collection
Danone’s VP of Greek yogurt and functional nutrition Surbhi Martin talks about how different yogurt brands are meeting consumer needs
New CMO Damon Burrell talks about Geico’s marketing strategy amid insurance upheaval and why the gecko maintains his appeal
Cheryl Gresham, CMO and VP marketing for Verizon Value, discusses how her career led her to Verizon, and how the company avoids cannibalization among its many brands.
President Jamie Cygielman talks about reaching today’s digitally savvy kids and their parents
Janique Helson, head of brand marketing at Volvo Car USA, on how women have not been equally portrayed in automotive marketing and what the brand has done to change that. Plus, she discusses Volvo’s new approach to vehicle safety messaging.
Chief Marketing Officer DeLu Jackson on the brand’s new creative platform, sports sponsorships and the new generation of home buyers
Dove Global Chief Marketing Officer Alessandro Manfredi talks about why the Campaign for Real Beauty works after all these years, because it's not trying to tack an unrelated cause onto the brand. And he describes his "hype allergic" approach to AI and other tech trends.
Surabhi Pokhriyal, Chief Digital Growth Officer of Church & Dwight, discusses her company's new take on the Chief Marketing Officer role and how it's looking to thrive during inflationary times by focusing on Arm & Hammer's value.
We continue our monthly look at purpose ads with Thomas Kolster, founder and creative director at Copenhagen-based Goodvertising Agency. This episode explores ads from Volvo, Kraft as well as some transportation work. And more.
Lush’s Chief Ethics Officer Brandi Halls discusses the challenges of corporate activism, and how the brand has navigated marketing without social media.
Group officer Masahiko Nakasuji talks about customer engagement, in-store events and sustainability
CMO Devika Mathrani talks about becoming a health care brand that goes beyond the doctor’s office
Many marketers talk about purpose, but one company, PurposeBuiltBrands, actually put the word in its name three years ago. Part of that comes from the 60-year-old company's growing focus on eco-friendly products through its Green Gobbler brand. But the company, and the purpose, go beyond that as VP-Marketing Jon Ballante discusses in this podcast.
Super Bowl ad predictions and analysis from Ad Age Editor Jeanine Poggi, Chief Technology Reporter Garett Sloane and News Editor E.J. Schultz.
We continue our monthly look at purpose ads with Thomas Kolster, founder and creative director at Copenhagen-based Goodvertising Agency. This episode explores M&M’s Super Bowl stunt and a ‘subvertising’ move by climate activists that targets BMW and Toyota.
Former P&G CEO reflects on a new book about his former boss and mentor John Smale, including Smale’s impact on global expansion, P&G’s legendary collaboration with Walmart and the corporate diversity policy. Plus, he recalls how they bonded over their views on a really bad presentation by former P&G ad agency Y&R.
Lorraine Barber-Miller, chief marketing officer of Philips, talks about how she re-organized the 3,000 marketers of the global health, wellness and grooming company as a digital-first, omni-channel, data-driven organization.
CMO Karen Riley-Grant talks TikTok, conscious consumerism, live shopping and the metaverse
Steven Grasse, founder of Quaker City Mercantile agency, on his unique approach to making and marketing booze.
Clorox Co. CMO Eric Schwartz talks about his company's bumpy journey from pandemic to inflationary price spikes and his own move from general management.
Executive Creative Director Mariota Essery discusses how DoorDash is elevating its marketing through Superette, its new in-house creative studio.
Purpose marketing expert Thomas Kolster breaks down a winning campaign from Mentos that involves raccoons and a couple losers from P&G and HSBC. Plus, how BrewDog crashed the World Cup.
Father-and-son advertising leaders Jo and Jordan Muse talk about the state of DE&I progress and future of multicultural marketing.
Sonic is synonymous with drive-thrus, but for its newest campaign the fast feeder takes a step away from the drive-thru, at least visually, as it plugs the crave-a-bility of its food. CMO Lori Abou Habib discusses the new approach, as well as what it is like to work for parent company Inspire Brands.
CMO Alex Griffin discusses On’s marketing, its subscription shoe program and what’s ahead in 2023
Global Brand President Tom Waldron talks about recent initiatives for the 75-year-old denim brand as well as the enduring appeal of cowboy culture
In this interview, Sean Riley, aka the chief executive dude, and Ryan Meegan, chief marketing officer, talk about secrets of their success, the unusual way they selected new agency Curiosity with help from former P&G executive Pete Carter, what it’s like working with Mark Cuban, and why clogged sewer lines won’t slow them down.
In our latest look at purpose ads, Thomas Kolster, founder and creative director at Copenhagen-based Goodvertising, explains why Heineken and Lidl scored with environmental efforts—and how Apple missed the mark with its “Dear Apple” watch ad. Plus, we discuss Patagonia’s bold new move.
Melissa Waters talks about a new campaign and how the brand is educating workers and organizations
Brand exec talks about showing up in unexpected places and what the Serial podcast did for the brand
Bodybuilder-turned marketer Ryan Hughes joins the pod to talk about Ghost, a 6-year-old supplement brand that recently got into the energy drink business with help from Anheuser-Busch. Ghost takes a fun approach to the powder and energy drink sector, including with co-branded products via deals with Oreo, Sour Patch Kids and Warheads. Hughes also talks about the brand’s move to take fans behind the curtain with a video series called Behind the Brand.
Harris Beber, CMO of Google-owned traffic navigation app Waze, updates us on the brand’s go-to-market strategy, including how it has come back from tough times in the early days of the pandemic. The brand is leaning into music integrations with the likes of Netflix, including a recent partnership with the streamer’s “Sea Beast” movie. Beber also updates us on its deals with big events like the Tour de France, which includes data exchanges meant to reduce traffic congestion.
VP of Marketing Nancy King talks about what works and doesn’t work for the home-sharing brand
Purpose marketing expert Thomas Kolster breaks down a winning campaign from a German nonprpofit and a couple losers from Mercedes and Luftansa. Plus, how brands should prepare for World Cup.
John Sheldon, CMO of SmileDirectClub, the teeth straightening and whitening brand, details how the company is altering its go-to-market strategy, including with new technology that allows users to initiate treatment plans by simply taking a picture of their teeth with a smartphone.
Brian Irving, VP of marketing at Meta Reality Labs, is attempting one of the biggest marketing pitches in history ... selling the public on virtual, augmented and mixed reality, and getting them to adopt the metaverse.
New top marketer David Corns discusses how the brand is innovating amid industry fluctuations
CMO Stacey Pool discusses why the fast-casual chain sought a different way to express ‘different’ in a still challenging environment for restaurants
TopGolf is winning both hard core golfers and casual fans with its high tech driving ranges and entertainment and food options. The brand’s CMO, Geoff Cottrill, joins the pod to discuss its marketing strategy and growth plans.
In the latest installment of our purpose marketing series, Thomas Kolster, founder and creative director at Copenhagen-based Goodvertising Agency, shares tips on environmental marketing.
Karin Timpone discusses a game plan around courting new baseball fans, including big events like the upcoming All-Star Game
Marketing executive Heather Bennett talks about how the brand is dealing with inflation, connecting with Gen Z and Gen Alpha, and boosting the crafting-tech trend
Brent Miller, who has what appears to be a unique role in marketing as senior global director of LGBTQ+ equality for P&G, talks about how the company is approaching marketing to the community strategically and staying the course despite pushback in legislatures nationally on LGBTQ+ rights.
Alice Milligan talks about integrating E-Trade and how the brand is messaging its customers
Once quite literally left for dead, A&W Restaurants has fought back behind clever and efficient campaigns and is now turning toward scientific solutions, Liz Bazner, senior marketing director, tells the Marketer’s Brief podcast
We look at how brands are approaching LGBTQ+ advocacy with Thomas Kolster, founder and creative director at Copenhagen-based Goodvertising Agency.
Accenture Chief Marketing and Communications Officer Jill Kramer on the rebranding of Accenture Interactive to Accenture Song. Jill also explains Accenture’s metaverse consulting approach. And we get into why she thinks B2B marketing is more exciting than ever. Plus, we hear how she decluttered Accenture’s marketing dept.
Founder Sam Calagione discusses the evolution of one of craft brewing’s biggest successes—and why young consumers want something other than what’s in their parents’ refrigerators
Behr’s Global CMO Jodi Allen talks about DIY millennials and why a paint brand needs an NFT.
Kathy Parker, chief marketing officer for Patron and Grey Goose at Bacardi Limited, takes us behind the marketing strategies for the tequila and vodka brands. That includes how Grey Goose tapped Paris Hilton for a Grammys promotion that included an NFT and what Patron is doing to ride the rising popularity of Formula One.
Katie Williams, U.S. chief marketing officer of GSK Consumer Health, which soon will be an independent company called Haleon, on how the company is managing the transition.
With this episode we kick off a new monthly series looking at purpose marketing with Thomas Kolster, founder and creative director at Copenhagen-based Goodvertising Agency. We start with a look at Earth Day campaigns, and also examine Hellmann’s ongoing campaign against food waste.
Senior VP Cara Pratt on how the image and purpose of retail media is moving beyond promotions, agencies and brand marketers are getting more involved, and flipping the funnel
CMO Ed Plummer talks about a recent e-commerce campaign with Charles Barkley, women’s sports integrations and what marketing lies ahead.
Mark Eamer, formerly with Amazon, is now driving brand consistency at online pet retailer Chewy
The veteran marketer and new CMO of the New York Mets discusses the convergence of baseball and advertising from international opportunities to sponsor patches on uniforms
Sofia Colucci, Global Marketing VP for Miller brands at Molson Coors, updates us on the Miller's moves in the metaverse, how it is using creative ways to collect first-party data and its multicultural marketing approach, including its partnership with J Balvin.
Chief Brand Officer Kevin Keith discusses the fitness chain’s upcoming classes with music curated by DJ Steve Aoki, its “More Life” marketing campaign, competition and more.
In this week’s episode of the Marketer’s Brief podcast, McKinney Group Strategy Director Justin Davis discusses the agency’s annual food trend forecast, saying aroma-based marketing, metaverse promotions and sea vegetation will play a role in a food world awakened to global crises
CMO Lauren Weinberg talks about Square’s marketing, expanding overseas and the new Block parent name
Danone’s Surbhi Martin on breaking away from the conventional ‘bite-and-smile’ with a strong turn toward sports and fitness
We get the story behind Carvertise, which strikes deals with drivers of rideshare cars for vehicle ads. The firm is on track to reach $20 million in ad sales and works with brands ranging from Netflix to DoorDash, while leveraging a network of some 550,000 registered drivers. Co-founder Greg Star reveals the secrets behind car ads that pop and explains what makes for a successful entrepreneur.
Ad Age journalists dissect what to expect during the ad industry's biggest day of the year, including early themes emerging as brands begin to release their ads.
The Association of National Advertisers recently launched a probe of programmatic media buying, and unlike such efforts in the past, has hired an investigative firm to follow the money. Even so, ANA CEO Bob Liodice says the goal isn’t to find wrongdoing or get the Justice Department involved. He also talks about signs of hope for industry social media regulation and better marketer-agency relations.
The head of marketing at the high-performance brand talks about athlete partnerships, a recent rebrand and the Super Bowl.
Testimonials from ‘regulars’ and a love song from a superstar superfan, is bringing the casual restaurant chain back from the pandemic blues.
Brian Povinelli, senior VP at the hotel chain, talks about Marriott’s first NFT collection, how people are traveling, and what the omicron variant means for hospitality.
Ad Age reporters break down our annual Marketers of the Year list, a ranking of 10 companies with business results driven by breakthrough advertising and smart strategic thinking. We dig into why each company made the list, which includes a few surprises.
The secrets of maintaining a healthy relationship in the C-suite from the top marketer at Pernod Ricard, Pam Forbus, and the woman who hired her, CEO Ann Mukherjee, who is a former CMO.
Albertsons’ Kristi Argyilan talks about the evolution of shopper marketing and shifting consumer behavior amid product price increases.
EBay's head of fashion Charis Marquez talks about consumer behavior amid supply chain issues and what the online marketplace has in store for holiday
Marketing exec Erika White discusses Affirm's new holiday campaign, consumer adoption, and where the brand might show up in 2022.
The newest Roomba robot vacuum cleaner is so smart it can learn how to navigate floors, remember specific rooms and even detect and avoid pet waste. Kiran Smith, CMO of parent company iRobot, joins the pod to detail how the brand is going to market, including with a new campaign that gives the revolutionary vacuum a personality.
New CMO Dhanusha Sivajee talks about expanded offerings and digitizing Angi’s customer experience
Samantha Maltin, executive VP and chief marketing officer of Sesame Workshop, discusses how the nonprofit covers topics including racial justice on “Sesame Street,” and shares details on its new collaboration with Stephen Curry’s Curry Brand.
Flavors are making their way onto new dishes such as Mapo beans rather than tofu, or pecorino cheese and pepper topping potatoes, not just Cacio e pepe pasta. Claire Conaghan, associate director at Datassential, joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss food trends including fall favorite pumpkin spice and how Thanksgiving recipes might evolve this year.
CMO Marissa Jarratt talks about new marketing partners such as Philly band Froggy, changing consumer behavior and the possibility of a pumpkin spice latte-flavored Slurpee.
Vinay Shahani, VP marketing at Lexus, talks about luxury car marketing trends and how the brand is trying to appeal to younger buyers, including with a new campaign that looks more like a music video than a traditional ad. He also shares how and why Lexus started using TikTok earlier this year.
Army Enterprise Marketing CMO Major General Alex Fink shares how a sophisticated data practice and next-gen talent are fueling successful recruitment strategies at the largest and oldest branch of the U.S. Military.
Co-founder Jacq Tatelman talks about how the brand doubled its sales this back-to-school season and other expansion efforts, including a collab with Target.
Marissa Freeman, the chief marketing officer of Union Square Hospitality Group, discusses ways the industry can use data to improve experiences for diners, how the company’s restaurants are marketing safety messages, and other plans including new restaurant openings.
Cars.com VP and former Hyundai CMO Dean Evans discuss why he made the move to the online marketplace and how the brand is targeting in-market buyers. Plus, he weighs in on how the industry-wide vehicle shortage could affect marketing and he offers opinions on why automakers might be relying too much on TV advertising.
The CEO of research company MotivBase offers a primer for brands on changing purchase behavior brought on by the pandemic.
Signet Jewelers' Jamie Singleton talks about digitizing the jewelry buying experience, new consumer connections and the future of Signet's mall-based stores.
Established brands such as Oscar Mayer are getting overhauls as Kraft Heinz looks to connect with today’s consumers. Jess Vultaggio, head of strategy and development for the meal foundations and coffee unit at Kraft Heinz, joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss some of the company’s latest efforts.
CMO Deena Bahri talks about the brand’s recent initiatives and the ways in which it is connecting with next-gen shoppers.
Craig Brommers, CMO of American Eagle, talks about a new digital clothing line and how social commerce is enticing Gen Z.
Andy England, CMO of liquor marketer Phillips Distilling, joins the pod to discuss a wave of innovation he is unleashing for brands including UV Vodka, Prairie Organic Spirits and Revel Stoke Whisky. Moves include using special packaging that turns colors under certain conditions and a new vodka brand specially made to be stored in the freezer. The former MillerCoors marketer also shares why Revel Stoke is taking an irreverent marketing approach that specifically targets males.
We take a look at how the newest Major League Soccer team, Charlotte FC, is building fan buzz and luring corporate sponsorships ahead of its debut next year. Joining us is the club’s president, Nick Kelly, who joined the franchise after overseeing sponsorships for Anheuser-Busch.
Food marketer McCormick hops on social media trends and produces content quickly thanks in large part to the team led by Alia Kemet, VP of creative and digital marketing. She shares details on a new product launch and how the marketer is saving millions by doing more work in-house.
Behind the city of Chicago’s moves to spread awareness about vaccine marketing to Black and Brown audiences, including using outreach to barbershops and faith communities. Joining the pod to discuss are Michael Fassnacht, the city’s chief marketing officer who formerly ran FCB Chicago, and Michelle Flowers Welch, chairman/CEO of Chicago-based agency, Flowers Communication Group.
CMO Janice Tennant talks about how the footwear brand is marketing with diversity in mind to make the outdoors more welcoming to women and minorities.
Athletes Unlimited runs leagues in softball, volleyball and lacrosse that are upending traditional pro sports model with a player-first mentality that extends into marketing. CEO Jon Patricof joins the pod to explain the philosophy, which includes a heavy reliance on content marketing.
Ken Muench, the chief marketing officer of Yum Brands and chief strategy officer of Collider Lab, discusses marketing strategies that can improve business results and shares ideas from the new book he co-authored with former Yum Brands CEO Greg Creed.
Carvel Ice Cream Chief Marketing Officer and VP Nicolle DuBose discusses famous items including crunchies and Fudgie the Whale cakes, and what’s next for the 87-year-old chain.
Head of Marketing Peggy Ang on connecting with gamers through showdowns with celebrities
Chief Marketing Officer Christina Smedley talks about the trading app’s new ad campaign, financial influencers, and GameStop gains.
Kellogg Co. Chief Growth Officer Monica McGurk discusses how the company is working to reach consumers in new ways as the food industry undergoes massive change.
Jinal Shah of furniture rental brand Feather talks about a renewed focus on the share economy and sustainability amid the pandemic.
Campbell Snacks Chief Marketing Officer Janda Lukin shares insights behind a TikTok challenge for Goldfish featuring NBA players that garnered 9 billion views, and other ways the kid-focused cracker aims to reach older snackers including a limited-time flavor.
Kristin Connelly, Overwatch League VP and Head of Marketing, joins ‘Marketer’s Brief’ podcast to talk about new digital tech advancements to combat the pandemic’s negative effect on in-person competitions and the league’s strategy for the future of live gaming events.
Mayra Rivera, USAA’s CMO, talks about marketing messaging and the channels the insurer is using to expand.
Barbara McHugh, MLB’s senior vice president of marketing, joins the pod to update us on how the league is approaching the new season, including its Twitch-filled outreach to young fans.
Volta Charging, which operates EV charging stations, is building an ad network by pitching brands to run messaging on the 55-inch digital displays on the stations. Chief strategy officer Drew Lipsher joins the pod to talk about why he thinks the company’s network is a lot different than gas station advertising.
American Express Travel’s Audrey Hendley talks about new travel trends and what’s on the road to recovery.
Chris Paquette of DeepIntent, a health care advertising technology company, talks about how brands can build trust with consumers.
Wendy’s Chief Marketing Officer Carl Loredo shares how the NCAA sponsor and new No. 2 U.S. burger chain is preparing for March Madness and discusses other plans, from gaming to chicken sandwiches.
CMO Aron North joins the ‘Marketer’s Brief’ podcast to talk about embracing fear and just how much brand owner Ryan Reynolds is part of the creative process.
Daniel Reilly, VP of brand and product management, talks about building Staples’ brands, changes in demand for office supplies and what’s ahead.
Jimmy John’s, known for its “Freaky Fast” delivery, is telling more of a brand story. Chief Marketing Officer Darin Dugan joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss the brand’s first Super Bowl campaign and how product introductions are spicing up the menu.
The Knot’s Kristen Maxwell Cooper talks about Zoom ceremonies, a customer hotline and what trends will last.
Ad Age's E.J. Schultz, Jeanine Poggi and Jessica Wohl discuss what's different heading into advertising's biggest day, such as big players sitting out the game, newcomers eager for the spotlight and whether humor is hitting the right note after 2020
Behind the rise of star-backed alcohol brands with . Larry Waks, a partner with Foley & Lardner LLP, who is known inside his law firm as the “attorney to the stars.” We also talk about his involvement in the drive-in movie space and how the pandemic has lifted the once-forgotten category.
NerdWallet’s CMO talks about the brand’s new campaign and how money needs have shifted amid COVID-19
As one of the nation's biggest pizza chains, Little Caesars is far from small. Chief Marketing Officer Jeff Klein joins Marketer's Brief to discuss how the chain is taking on a fictional Big Pizza brand in a new campaign, its timely addition of delivery, its 2020 Super Bowl spot and more.
In this encore episode, Ad Age reporters discuss the 2020 lineup of America's Hottest Brands and look back at some picks from previous years.
In this encore episode, Cheryl Bachelder, one of Ad Age's inaugural Women to Watch, discusses how she went from marketing to general management and the advice she has for leaders during the pandemic.
Newly appointed Chief Commercial Officer Gretchen Saegh-Fleming talks fitness marketing
Applebee's CMO Joel Yashinsky joins Marketer's Brief to discuss how the brand changed its plans due to the coronavirus pandemic, from pulling media spending early on to finding a way to send some birthday cheer via Twitter.
Alison Payne, VP of marketing for Heineken USA who oversees the beer importer’s Mexican brands, updates us on what the company is doing to boost its ecommerce presence as the pandemic continues to alter beer shopping behavior. We also talk about Heineken’s aggressive innovation pipeline, which includes new seltzers, and why the marketer is taking a test and learn approach that involves rolling out new products first in select cities.
New Chief Brand Officer Nikki Neuburger talks about the brand’s recent Mirror acquisition, new creative AOR Droga5 and what’s ahead.
Bill Tine, VP of marketing at King Arthur Baking Company, joins Marketer's Brief to discuss how the company is trying to build on the rapid success it has seen in 2020, its 230th year in business.
CMO Norman de Greve talks about areas of focus for CVS amid changing consumer behavior.
The Association of National Advertisers' biggest conference is being held remotely due to COVID-19. ANA CEO Bob Liodice joins Marketer's Brief to discuss how the event is being run this year and the appetite he sees for future in-person events.
Neuro Insight’s Pranav Yadav talks about what consumers really want to see in ads now and through the holidays.
Chris Bellinger, VP of creative and digital, Frito-Lay North America, joins Marketer's Brief to discuss the snack maker's internal agency and his earlier time on the agency side—which included Doritos' "Crash the Super Bowl" and even a scary moment in a cage with a shark.
The VP of marketing at the nonprofit discusses the switch to virtual races and how NYRR is now beginning smaller in-person events
Domino’s Pizza, like its smaller rivals, has grown substantially this year thanks in large part to people placing more orders during the coronavirus pandemic.
In the second quarter, for example, Domino’s U.S. same-store sales jumped 16.1 percent.
Kate Trumbull, VP of advertising and Hispanic marketing at Domino’s, discussed those topics and others during the Ad Age Next Food & Beverage Conference.
The CMO and co-founder of RV rental site Outdoorsy discusses consumer travel trends and how the Great American Roadtrip is still thriving, despite chillier temps.
Russell Barnett, managing director and chief marketing officer of My/Mo Mochi Ice Cream, joins the podcast to discuss the trajectory of the L.A.-based premium frozen novelty brand, which aims to exceed $300 million in annual retail sales in the next couple of years.
Brad Hiranaga, chief brand officer of General Mills North America, discusses how the company is meeting new demand for packaged food and using marketing to support racial justice.
Nicole Sander, VP of partnerships at Camp, talks about how new brand partnerships and out-of-store offerings are carrying the retailer into the holiday season.
From breakfast to snacking, the coronavirus pandemic has altered how people eat. Jen Bentz, chief client officer at Mintel, joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss how trends in the food industry have evolved and what to expect going forward.
Paige Steers of real estate giant JLL discusses what trends, including working from home, curbside pick-up in malls, and new office safety, mean for real estate and the office of the future.
Sonic President Claudia San Pedro discusses the chain's updated look, new marketing featuring diners who aren't the Two Guys, and how its drive-in model has been a benefit during the pandemic.
Ad Age's Adrianne Pasquarelli, E.J. Schultz and Jessica Wohl discuss the 2020 lineup of America's Hottest Brands and look back at some of last year's picks.
Lisa Checchio, chief marketing officer of Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, discusses how the 20-brand company is responding to the pandemic, and what travel trends are here to stay.
Pernell Cezar, co-founder and CEO of BLK & Bold, discusses how the brand is working to keep up with demand due to rising interest in Black-owned businesses and people having more coffee at home during the pandemic.
Tim LeBel, Mars Wrigley’s chief Halloween officer, joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss how the big candy selling season is expected to look in 2020 as COVID-19 forces the industry to pivot.
Anthony Marino, ThredUp’s president, discusses resale trends, why brands are lining up to partner with the company, and how it feels about social media ads.
Greg Revelle, chief marketing officer of Kohl’s, joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss how the retailer is reopening its stores, why it’s focusing on digital marketing, and how back-to-school will be different this year.
Tia Mattson, executive VP of enterprise marketing and communications, dishes on the National Restaurant Association’s efforts to reinvigorate the dining out experience, including an upcoming campaign from The Richards Group.
Maryellis Bunn, co-founder and CEO, talks about the changes the Museum of Ice Cream made following the lockdowns and how the brand is participating in the protests for racial equality.
Chief Brand Officer Sarah Beddoe joins Marketer's Brief to discuss Main Event's shift to virtual events during the pandemic and how it is communicating changes such as socially-distant laser tag as it reopens.
Ad Age’s E.J. Schultz, Adrianne Pasquerelli and Jessica Wohl discuss how brands are adapting sponsorships during COVID-19, why gardening is rising and golf, napkins and American cheese are coming back. Plus, the latest on the chicken sandwich marketing wars.
Amy Errett, the founder and CEO of Madison Reed, discusses her company's swift rise in orders, getting products from Italy during the pandemic and how she is preparing for the future when customers return to salons.
Nick Street, VP of global integrated marketing at Vans, breaks down what the streetwear brand is doing, from donating shoelaces for face gear to collaborating with artists.
Richard Dickson, president and COO of Mattel, joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss how the toymaker is creating new content for parents and kids and thanking front-line heroes with collectibles.
Fernando Machado, global chief marketing officer of Restaurant Brands International, discusses how brands such as Burger King have altered their marketing tactics due to COVID-19 and what they can take away from this moment.
In the latest episode of the Marketer’s Brief Podcast, Ad Age’s E.J. Schultz, Adrianne Pasquarelli and Jessica Wohl discuss how the pandemic is hitting industries like restaurants, retail and insurance, and in what ways brands are reacting. They also take a look at what lies ahead.
Cheryl Bachelder, one of Age Age's inaugural Women to Watch, discusses how she went from marketing to general management and the advice she has for leaders during the coronavirus pandemic.
Clayton Reid, CEO of travel marketing firm MMGY Global, talks about what travel brands should be doing now to handle the coronavirus pandemic and how to prepare for the future.
The co-owner and co-founder of the Alinea Group and founder and CEO of reservations system Tock joins Marketer's Brief to discuss how he helped his own restaurants and others pivot from high-end dining to to-go operations to stay afloat during the pandemic, and what he sees in the industry's future.
Consumer psychologist Kit Yarrow explains what messages will and won’t work amid the coronavirus outbreak. Plus, what strategies consumers can use to restore consumer confidence.
An update on the latest marketing news surrounding the pandemic, including how coronavirus response ads from Guinness and Ford are being received. Ad Age’s E.J. Schultz, Jessica Wohl and Adrianne Pasquarelli discuss that, plus a surprisingly optimistic ad spending forecast. We also take a look at how restaurants and retailers are handling the coronavirus crisis. Be sure to check out AdAge.com for our continuing coronavirus coverage.
Ad Age is closely following the impact novel coronavirus is having on marketers. In the latest episode of the Marketer’s Brief podcast, Ad Age’s E.J. Schultz, Adrianne Pasquarelli and Jessica Wohl discuss some of their latest findings. Be sure to check out AdAge.com for our continuing coronavirus coverage.
Mike Haracz joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss his path toward becoming a chef, his tenure at McDonald’s, promoting Wendy’s breakfast, gaming, and his go-to spices.
Amanda Hesser, CEO of Food52, talks about how the company is expanding into new areas and how the brand’s audience drives the business.
Jason Sorley, brand Director for whiskey at Diageo, on how Seagram’s 7 is reaching out to Middle America with marketing that takes on the pretentiousness surrounding cocktail culture.
Proven Skincare uses artificial intelligence to create tailor-made products for individuals. Ming Zhao, the CEO and co-founder of the startup, joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss why skin care is so trendy and how technology enters the equation.
Patty Trevino, senior VP of brand marketing at CKE Restaurants Holdings Inc., dishes on the new “Feed Your Happy” campaign from 72andSunny New York, which is working on Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s again after a hiatus.
Hyatt is incorporating more wellness into its offerings for guests and employees. Mia Kyricos, the first global head of wellbeing at Hyatt, joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss new partnerships and initiatives to enhance the brand.
TrueCar, which runs an app connecting car buyers to dealers, wants to lure more millennials and women. Chief Brand Officer Lucas Donat breaks down how it is going about it with a new campaign, logo update and website overhaul.
Craig Erlich of experiential marketing agency George P Johnson on the changes coming to the Detroit auto show—which is moving from January to June—and how auto brands can seize on the new format.
Ad Age's Jessica Wohl, Jeanine Poggi and E.J. Schultz on the early trends emerging in advance of advertising's biggest day of the year.
How does a health club stand out amid all the wellness campaigns in January? Jeremy Tucker, the new chief marketing officer at Planet Fitness, joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss what he calls the brand’s Super Bowl.
Laura Lashley, national education manager for Seedlip, which bills itself as the world’s first non-alcoholic distilled spirits brand, talks about the brand’s origins and its plans for Dry January.
We discuss and dissect our ranking of the 10 companies and brands that marketed their way to the top in 2019.
Jack in the Box is working on everything from esports and movie partnerships to a possible new tagline as it tries to stand out as “the curly fry in a world of regular fries,” says Adrienne Ingoldt, senior VP, chief brand and experience officer. She discusses the brand’s recent efforts and plans for 2020 on Marketer’s Brief.
Pepsi’s marketing VP Todd Kaplan talks about the decision to lean into the phrase “Is Pepsi OK,” and why he thinks Cardi B is a perfect fit for the brand. Plus, we try pin him down on what Pepsi has planned for the Super Bowl.
Does Black Friday still matter? What about Cyber Monday? Which holiday ad campaigns are creating buzz? Ad Age reporters discuss this and more in this week’s holiday-themed pod.
Yin Rani, the new CEO of MilkPEP, joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss how the milk marketing organization responds to an onslaught of non-dairy competition and how her prior roles at Campbell Soup and at agencies prepared her for the role.
Kirsten Lynch, chief marketing officer at Vail Resorts, which oversees 37 resorts across three countries, on how Vail is using data-driven marketing to create personalized experiences for resort visitors. We also talk about what effect global warming might have on the ski season.
Alegra O’Hare, the new CMO at the Gap, joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss the brand’s holiday campaign and marketing trends.
Martin Renaud joins Marketer's Brief to discuss how Mondelēz International has reworked its marketing team and why digital media is such a crucial part of its diet.
Behind the beer industry’s push to lift the category, which has lost ground to wine and spirits.
Digging into the California Consumer Privacy Act with Eric Babel, CEO of TrustArc, a privacy compliance consultant, including how a real estate tycoon jumpstarted the regulation.
Ad Age reporters on what to expect at this week’s gathering of the Association of National Advertisers in Orlando.
Stephanie Csaszar, Kind’s manager of nutrition strategy and insights, discusses its new marketing against synthetic dyes and the snack maker’s broader communications plan around health and wellness.
Online glasses retailer Zenni recently teamed up with the San Francisco 49ers to promote its eyewear. Sean Pate, Zenni’s brand communications officer, discusses why teaming up with the sports industry makes sense for the brand and the other areas where it plays to get its low-priced eyewear in people’s minds.
Scott Tannen, founder and CEO of direct-to-consumer bedding brand Boll & Branch, talks about the company’s plan to accelerate growth through a recent private equity investment, how sustainability factors into the brand’s marketing message, and why selling on Amazon matters.
Ad lawyer Jeff Greenbaum on why regulators could soon be tightening rules on “Made in the USA” marketing claims, plus what consumer protection authorities are monitoring during the deal-ridden back to school shopping season.
Buffalo Wild Wings Chief Marketing Officer Seth Freeman dishes on marketing such as tv spots and a football prenup, updated food and why he says watching games at the chain beats sitting in his man cave.
Although DraftKings offers its users the option to bet on soccer, basketball and NHL games, the NFL season is by far its biggest moneymaker. “This is our Black Friday,” Tom Goedde, CMO at DraftKings says, adding that the company brought creative in house “to keep up with the speed of our sports content – whether that’s the latest trade, injury or odds line changing.”
Chief Marketing Officer Jay Livingston dishes on how Shake Shack reaches customers with little paid marketing, its plans for a new veggie product and its delivery partnership with Grubhub.
Vinoo Vijay, CMO of the tax prep giant, on what he is doing to get ready for tax season, why the brand is sitting out the Super Bowl and how it is leaning into personalized marketing.
Partners & Napier quizzed more than 1,100 U.S. adults about their eating habits. CJ Gaffney, the ad agency’s director of planning, joins Marketer’s Brief with a first discussion of some of the findings.
Adrian Parker, VP Marketing for Patron and Grey Goose, on the vodka’s new marketing approach and why Patron is the Lady Gaga of tequila.
Victor Lee joins Marketer's Brief to discuss the evolution of its no B.S. message and taking the brand further beyond the bars that put it on the map.
Dan Sanborn spent 16 years at Diageo overseeing its entertainment marketing. Now he’s at Wheelhouse Labs, whose holdings include Kimmelot, a content and development company launched last fall by Jimmy Kimmel. Dan talks about his new gig and gives his take on ways to get brands plugged into pop culture.
Pizza Hut Chief Brand Officer Marianne Radley dishes on the new use of the old red roof logo with a bit of a modern touch and other ways the 61-year-old chain is trying to reconnect with past diners and entice new ones.
Ad Age reporters detail what brands are making waves in 2019, from a tiny collectible toy maker to a cannabis purveyor.
Active players can now appear in beer ads during games. Nick Kelly, head of sports marketing for Anheuser-Busch, talks about what this means for Bud Light, while dishing on the brewer's overall sports marketing strategy.
This episode of Marketer’s Brief features a roundtable of Ad Age marketing journalists breaking down what brands should know heading into this year’s festival.
Charlie Chappell, Hershey Co.’s head of media, chats about the company’s decision to boost its marketing with Twitch, as well as the overall appeal of digital platforms that are becoming more popular, especially with younger consumers.
Tony Palmer joins us at the unofficial start of the summer and shares why he left the Fortune 500 executive life to pursue a passion project: making a sunscreen that’s safe for reefs and people that doesn’t show up on skin like the mineral ones he used growing up in Australia.
Greg Guidotti, general manager of Ferrara Candy Co.’s non-chocolate business, discusses new products including Wonder Woman ropes and the tailwinds he sees in the candy industry even as people say they want to eat healthier.
As the chief marketing and communications officer at Feeding America, Catherine Davis is using knowledge from her prior roles at agencies and brands to help the organization modernize its outreach. She joins Marketer’s Brief to discuss the differences of working at a non-profit, misconceptions about hunger in America and where organizations can innovate to grow their reach beyond traditional media.
Since joining Freshly as chief marketing officer in January, Mayur Gupta has quickly added to the company's internal marketing team, hired an agency and brought the idea of data-inspired marketing to the forefront. He joins Marketer's Brief to discuss the direct-to-consumer brand's strategy, including bringing out more products.
Allyson Witherspoon joins Marketer’s Brief to chat about the road to her new position as VP of marketing communications and media at Nissan North America, including her move from the agency side to the client side, and how she got the most out of two international postings.
Executive recruiter Richard Sanderson of Spencer Stuart weighs in on why CMOs aren’t getting board of directors appointments. He also updates us on CMO tenures and whether it still makes sense to get an MBA.
Michael McGoohan, CMO Performance Health, on how the company created a consumer brand out of Biofreeze, a pain relief gel that was once only distributed via health practitioners.
Kevin George, the new CMO at Harvest Health and Recreation, one of the largest vertically integrated cannabis companies in the U.S., on the opportunities and challenges of marketing marijuana.
Ad lawyer Linda Goldstein joins us to discuss the rise in false advertising lawsuits and what brands do to avoid trouble. We will also talk about legal pitfalls in the subscription-based marketing business.
Electrify America, a subsidiary of Volkswagen Group, is overseeing a 10-year, $2 billion investment on zero-emissions vehicle technology and awareness. The group's marketing director, Richard Steinberg, discusses what it is doing to help nudge the EV sector into the mainstream, including how charging stations might create branding opportunities.
In a 20-year marketing career with Anheuser-Busch, Bob Lachky oversaw some of the most memorable ad campaigns in beer, including “Whassup,” the Budweiser Frogs and Real Men of Genius. Lachky, now a consultant, joins us to talk about the brewing marketing war between his old company and MillerCoors over corn syrup, and why Lachky thinks the beer industry has lost its way.
Iconic brands are struggling to remain relevant in today's food industry. More evidence came with Kraft Heinz’s recent $15 billion asset write-down. We examine the fallout and why Kraft’s fall could be good for ad agencies.