TMI with Kevin Ryan

Join digital marketing expert Kevin M. Ryan as he tackles the most complex issues of the day. He'll get to the bottom of it with help from other marketing digital experts, celebrity guests, and the voices in his own head. You loved reading his stuff in AdAge, iMedia, Marketing Land, Media Post and the odd placement in places like Forbes and for some reason Popular Mechanics. You remembered him from that time he spoke at that conference and thought, “Did he just say that?” Now, embrace him in his own forum, TMI with Kevin Ryan.

How To Be the Jenny To the Industry’s Forrest Gump with Zach Rodgers 10/30/2022

The Hypocrisy of Woke Capitalism with Jennifer Sey 10/17/2022

The Hypocrisy of Woke Capitalism with Jennifer Sey Jennifer Sey is an author, business executive, and retired artistic gymnast. She’s also known in the marketing world for spending a great deal of time with Levi Strauss, as she managed all aspects of the brand as brand president, including product. Jennifer and Kevin talk about the hypocrisy of woke capitalism, and why brands should focus on having open and transparent conversations with their audience, or just decide to make it more about the product and less about taking a stand on an issue they might not be ready to fully back up. Jennifer and Kevin discuss a few examples of brand campaigns that have gone wrong, and the consequences that often come with trying to use social justice in your marketing. Takeaways: [4:10] Jennifer was at Levi’s for close to 23 years and moved beyond marketing to end her time there as brand president. She was outspoken about school closures and restrictions on kids during the pandemic, and discusses being asked to leave and her thoughts about the situation. [10:11] In a tweet celebrating Women’s Day, Levi Strauss turned off the comments once they faced backlash. Jennifer and Kevin discuss alternative measures that could have been taken, and how it demonstrated just a tiny ripple in the wave of the many brands that are hypocritical in their woke capitalism. [11:09] If Jennifer was to lead a marketing division or company again, she would make sure that everything they said and did was true, and that they walked the talk, even if it was a decision that came with some risk. [12:18] There is often a huge difference between what brands say, and what they actually do. [14:14] You can actually build greater loyalty and a true connection with your audience when they feel like it’s a two-way relationship and that you are open to listening. When a brand turns off comments, this sends a message that they don’t want to have the conversation. [18:12] Jennifer discusses how we can assign weight to some of the feedback you get, at what point does it lose value, and when should we just decide to not engage? [27:38] In the same way that consumers can intend to purchase a product but not buy it, they can also say they won’t buy it and do the opposite. [30:00] Nike got themselves into hot water when they posted about woman-related holidays, and some major incidents came out that showed they may not have supported women the way they postured to do. [33:00] A lot of the time, the pressure at a brand is internal and CEOs can be intimated by younger employees pushing. [42:15] What brands like Abercrombie and Victoria’s Secret did wrong to alienate certain consumers from the beginning. [44:19] One of the problems with guru-led management can be how it’s used selectively. [49:02] Consumers are not stupid, and they can pick up when there’s a gap between what companies put forward and how they act. [55:18] The blowback that Pepsi got because of a poorly done ad campaign suggests and illustrates that there are limits to what people will tolerate in terms of borrowing themes and imagery from social justice to sell products. Quotes: “If I were to lead either a marketing division or company again, I would make sure that everything we said and did was true and that we walked the walk, even if it was a decision that came with some risk. I would also probably focus mostly on the product.” — Jennifer [11:09] “You can’t just ignore what you’ve been for decades. You’ve got to find a truth in it that can be made relevant today.” — Jennifer [45:19] “At the end of the day, you’ve got to market yourselves authentically.” [46:33] Mentioned in This Episode: Jennifer Sey: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/24708957

Dirty, Dangerous, and a Little Dull: Chris Cunningham of C2V 08/08/2022

Dirty, Dangerous, and a Little Dull: Chris Cunningham of C2V Kevin welcomes Chris Cunningham, a true living legend in the digital space and a 20-year media and tech veteran who is a serial entrepreneur turned early-stage venture capitalist. Chris recently launched a $10 million early-stage venture to fund the C2V brand. He talks about how they select the brands in their portfolios. The guys give their real thoughts for better or worse on the Bay Area, comparing Shrek to Silicon Valley, and a few examples of the old economy legacy industries that are ripe for disruption. It’s a down-and-dirty discussion about disrupting the industries that may or may not be ready. Takeaways: [4:02] Chris discusses C2V and how they invest in verticals that have had stagnant productivity but are products and services we touch and utilize every day of our lives. [6:57] What do Silicon Valley and Shrek have in common? [7:24] San Francisco is oversaturated and overpriced, and deals are overvalued. [10:00] It’s not just about the talent, but looking at the problems that are being solved and how they are going about solving those issues. [14:08] Is it really mature to be investing in Web3 and NFTs? [15:40] Chris talks about the process of finding companies to run. [18:40] How has remote work and going virtual shifted things? [19:31] Chris discusses deal flow and more on how they select the companies. [24:01] Your deck is your best friend, and will then be the next step to possibly get you a 30-minute Zoom or phone call. Quotes: [5:56] “It’s dirty, dull, and dangerous because these verticals are extremely boring, very sleepy, not that sexy. And that's why we like them.” — Chris [7:24] “Listen. We don’t hate on the Bay Area or San Francisco, but here’s the truth. It’s oversaturated. It’s overpriced. Deals are overvalued. Founder expectations are absurd.” — Chris [24:10] “It’s not a shark tank model. It couldn’t be the furthest thing.” — Chris [24:14] “The deck unlocks a 30-minute zoom.” — Chris Mentioned in This Episode: Chris Cunningham — /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/23990355

The Future of Online Gaming, The Metaverse, and Google’s Collusion with Mike Shields 04/07/2022

The Future of Online Gaming, The Metaverse, and Google’s Collusion with Mike Shields Kevin first gives his take on the slap heard across the world and then welcomes guest Mike Shields, Founder of Shields Strategic Consulting, host of Next in Marketing Podcast, and former writer and editor at Business Insider, Digiday, Adweek, and Wall Street Journal. They discuss how the world of online gaming is changing our society, a few important questions to ask as we possibly head into the Metaverse, and how to get to the point where we don’t have a detachment from reality while consuming these things. They also discuss collusion in our browsers, how we protect where our first-party data really goes, and their predictions for Facebook investing heavily in Meta, while ignoring a traditional ad model. Takeaways: [:44] Will Smith slapping Chris Rock was not okay, and thank goodness it wasn’t Martin Lawrence! [5:52] How has online gaming changed? [8:08] Is there real money in the Metaverse? [9:45] Mike thinks the internet is getting better but is not sure if there will be a full VR replacement. [11:33] Mike gives his thoughts on the possibility that there will be multiple rooms in the Metaverse. [18:18] While we are in the initial phases of Metaverse with gaming, how do we get it to come together and make it more real? [30:36] Because Google is getting a ton of heat from regulators, they’re going to get rid of the cookie, which affects 1,000s of companies and millions of websites. [32:08] There are so many efforts to try and figure out what we do about targeting the open web and how to replace the cookie, but the money is going to the guys who have first-party data. [37:08] Mike speaks to the allegations of Google manipulating markets. [45:02] Is there a lack of diversity in thought now on social media? If so, what can we do about it? Quotes: “They know how to mine people’s data and how to ratchet up anger and emotions to keep you around.” — Kevin “It’s interesting to me that as a tool for engaging with people, we eliminate all forms of constructive notes on our engagement.” — Kevin “There are so many efforts to try and figure out what we do about targeting the open web and how to replace the cookie, but the money is going to the guys who have first-party data.” — Mike “It doesn't make any sense from an ad serving perspective to serve 10 million ads once when you can serve one ad 10 million times.” — Kevin “I think the virtual goods thing will be big, but I don't know if it's going to be for everyone.” — Mike Mentioned in This Episode: Mike Shields: | | /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/22713698

Focus on the Value You Create, Not on Yourself with Mark Naples 02/13/2022

Focus on the Value You Create, Not on Yourself with Mark Naples Mark Naples is the founder of WIT Strategy and has led strategic efforts on behalf of more than 450 companies, complete company re-positioning campaigns, and dozens of corporate and product launches. He joins the show today to talk about keeping your ego checked, why “bro culture” holds back brands, the importance of setting ground rules and keeping your principles honed, and building trust and true rapport with the media. Kevin also shares the wonderful yet horrible experiences he had while running for office! Takeaways: [9:44] Mark and Kevin talk about a few intense interactions with nameless figureheads about wanting to be on the cover of a magazine, when the focus should first be adding value and establishing trust with the media. [11:41] Sir John Durham had what Mark calls an “intellectual curiosity that was insatiable, and an emotional connection and empathy that was insatiable.” [14:40] Mark discusses working independently and getting to choose who he works with, and who he chooses not to work with. [16:12] Kevin ran for office? He discusses both horrible and wonderful, and wonderfully horrible experiences. Why did Facebook shut down his account during the most crucial week? [19:41] Does Mark just walk away from the conversation where someone can’t put their ego down, or does he keep a positive perspective? [21:21] What are some symptoms of “bro culture,” and how does it hold companies and brands back? [28:36] Your job is to help the reporter get smart about what it is you are offering, and help them understand it better. That is how you’re going to really succeed. [35:32] How important is it when you’re getting information to be able to pair that up with somebody? How much information do you share with that reporter about the type of interaction that they’re likely to have? [41:37] Mark mentions two great young journalists, Michael Learmonth and Emily Steele, who are now these hyper-respected people, and which one of them he’s afraid of. [48:25] What are some of the best practices in building trust with reporters? [49:01] Where is it going? Is it going to get any better? Quotes: “To be authoritative, you have to have the respect of your peers and you have to be positioned well in the media.” — Mark “I tell them that you really need to focus on the value you create, not on yourself.” — Mark “Help the reporter get smart and help them understand better what problem you're solving. That’s how you’re going to really succeed.” — Mark Mentioned in This Episode: Tribute links to John Durham - Kevin will add /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/22115357

Kate Kaye Explains WTF is Going On With Google and Their Privacy Budget 10/05/2021

Kate Kaye Explains WTF is Going On With Google and Their Privacy Budget Kate Kaye is an award-winning tech journalist who has published work in many places including MIT Technology Review and NPR. Kate covered the data industry for Ad Age and digital political campaigns for ClickZ. She joins Kevin this week to talk about Google’s Privacy Budget, the Privacy Sandbox Initiative, and how we get people to care about the disruption that is taking place. She explains the different ways industry groups are both hurting and helping their constituents, and how she feels the future of data tracking and privacy will go. Finally, Kate and Kevin discuss the need for more journalists to step and question the narrative so every day people are better equipped and more informed. Takeaways: [6:09] Kate and Kevin talk about why trade journalism is often disparaged by their industries. Do we need more journalists pushing back, or do we expect this to happen because the publication exists on ad dollars that help prop up the industry itself? [8:06] Where is the intersection of advertising meeting liability? [9:26] Kate talks about her piece for Digiday entitled “” It explores what a privacy budget is, how a privacy budget works, and what problems could arise. [11:49] The industry is moving away from the old way of tracking people, but what new ways are on the horizon that we have to pay attention to? [14:15] Google has proposed the Privacy Budget as part of its initiative. What does that mean? And, does Google really care what happens out of its environment? [17:47] How will this affect the everyday person? [18:38] Data is defining everything and determining who makes the money and who doesn’t. — Kevin [25:02] Kate shares her method of writing articles that can help both those hired to understand and wade through these complex privacy issues, and also the everyday common person who just wants to understand from an angle of their safety and privacy. [30:50] Evil becomes an unintended consequence of power. [33:52] What constitutes a privacy infringement, and are there groups looking out for our interests inside the Privacy Budget? [38:34] Google has been reliant on tracking people, so what does Kate think this disruption will be, both short and long term? [40:32] Are industry trade organizations really helping and bringing a needed solution? [47:08] How do we get people to pay attention to what is happening with privacy protection and data collections? The movement in privacy that will steer legislators will put more restrictions on data collection and minimization. How will the conversation in business and marketing be shifting about it? Quotes: “Data is defining everything and determining who makes the money and who doesn’t.” — Kevin “Evil becomes an unintended consequence of power.” — Kevin Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/20713811

Radical Transparency with Jonathan Elist of Penuma 08/19/2021

Radical Transparency with Jonathan Elist of Penuma This week, Kevin welcomes Jonathan Elist, CEO of Penuma, an amazing solution for men that is not your traditional product. Jonathan discusses what Penuma is, and how radical transparency and trust are at the top of Penuma’s core values. He talks about some of the challenges in building the community, and how they balance both in-house marketing with agency outreach. He and Kevin also discuss Google Ads, Reddit, and word of mouth as a way to grow brand awareness and attract a network of happy customers and top-notch physicians. Takeaways: [2:38] Jonathan talks about building patient awareness around Penuma, and the two phases within the approach — FDA clearance and an actual patient awareness campaign. [5:22] Penuma’s first approach was to build out a Google Ads campaign that complemented the SEO strategies and brought in organic traffic. The quality of leads wasn’t that great, and that is something Jonathan and his team have always had to contend with and continue to find ways to improve. [8:43] They had to also establish legitimacy that they were not just another brand selling a crazy product or snake oil. This is where radical transparency came in and building long-term rapport with their customers. They also worked on not only building trust with consumers but with Google Ads and Facebook as well. [12:47] There’s not a lot of negativity about Penuma, which is not always the case for similar products. Jonathan shares how they got men to step up and share their success stories and passion around the brand. [16:48] The quality of the leads brought in by Google Ads has not been as good as social or organic. [18:08] Kevin calls for an end to lead generation via LinkedIn. Stop the madness! Or at the very least — stop reaching out to him! [19:09] Three things that account for Penuma’s success in marketing: establishing themselves correctly, distinguishing their brand from the nonsense, and catching people at the right time to make their decision. [20:35] Jonathan shares how he got on the phone with Google, and how it’s a two-way conversation with Facebook and LinkedIn rather than a one-sided favor. [23:29] As of the time of recording, Penuma may be on the search for a Marketing Director. Think you are a good fit? Reach out! [25:37] Reddit can be the root of evil, or it can prop up companies. Penuma has a great where men can communicate with each other and share their experiences. [31:55] Jonathan gets beautiful handwritten notes and testimonials from men that they can use to show in their marketing geared not only towards prospective patients, but also a network of physicians. [38:41] Penuma wants to try to position themselves as a leader in a space providing a way for men to gain more confidence and to feel their best. For years, the aesthetic space has been dominated by products geared towards women, but they are happy to be part of the forward change. Quotes: “We’ve been extremely transparent around what we can and cannot offer.” — Jonathan “If you are on LinkedIn trying to sell me leads… please stop.” — Kevin Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/20193560

Leaning into Agility and Holacracy with Nita Sanger 08/05/2021

Leaning into Agility and Holacracy with Nita Sanger The digital transformation is changing every aspect of how companies do business, and the most successful companies are those who are leaning into these changes. Nita Sanger joins the show as the director of digital advisory practice at Cherry Bekaert and master of strategic intelligence, common sense, and in-practice digital transformation. She has seen firsthand the effect that the rapid pace of technology change has on companies of all sizes. She discusses the ways successful companies use technology to create a competitive advantage, the importance of company culture, and the role of holacracy in an effective digital transformation. Takeaways: [2:20] The greatest opportunities lie in companies that are willing to move fast. [5:25] The pandemic has accelerated the pace of change by changing how we access every aspect of our consumer needs, from how we go to work to how we go to the grocery store. Effective digital transformation starts with how you use technology to create an advantage for your firm. [10:34] Nita understands the importance of recognizing a need and figuring out how to solve for it and sees that the paradigm shift often happens most successfully at mid-level firms. [16:46] The operational structures of organizations are often automated, while the people aspect of companies will never go away. But how does that apply in the personalization of the retail experience? [21:19] If you can think outside the digital box, you have the potential for significant growth. [24:01] Companies never start with the desire to transform, they only see the symptoms that are stunting their growth. Nita shares the 5 Rs that companies need to review to figure out where change needs to happen. [32:05] How do companies need to adapt their culture to keep up with the digital transformation? The answer lies in harnessing the power of the next generation. [36:30] Businesses are moving from a hierarchy to a holacracy, and what companies can create when everyone brings their different skill sets to the table is going to be bigger than ever before. [37:57] Agility means scaling to the individual needs of every client that you work with. Quotes: “Technology is the enabler of change. It’s not the driver.” — Nita “Whatever you do, you want to fail fast.” — Nita “Transformation is never one and done.” — Nita “Each one of us is good in our own areas but together what we can create is so much bigger.” — Nita Mentioned in This Episode: | | /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/20045867

You Are Your Own Brand with Elizabeth Nader 07/23/2021

You Are Your Own Brand with Elizabeth Nader Elizabeth Nader can tell right away whether she is coaching someone that has what it takes to succeed. Yes, talent and intelligence are important, but the ability to be coached is what takes someone that extra step further and gets them to grow past their limiting beliefs. As a coach, entrepreneur, author, and speaker, Elizabeth’s mission is to help people realize that they aren’t in competition with anyone else, just themselves. She joins the show this week to talk about the importance of embarrassing failure, taking a closer look at our limiting beliefs, who the enemy of our brand really is, and why we should plan to outdo our past, not other people. Takeaways: [6:07] You are your own brand; Elizabeth believes you are created on purpose for a purpose. [8:13] Find yourself before the world tells you otherwise. There is not enough emphasis on teaching children to believe in themselves and know who they really are before the world forms an opinion and tells them who they should be. [11:14] Your greatest strengths become your greatest weakness without wisdom. Great leaders communicate through authenticity and meet people where they are. [12:17] Don’t be a trainwreck! Elizabeth says the trainwrecks are the people who just refuse to be coached. Yes, we know big personalities may have big egos, but the real challenge is listening and not always having a rebuttal or limitation in place. [14:25] The best brands know what they are, they know who their enemy is, and they consistently show up in that manner. For Apple, it represents simplicity. For Starbucks, they may not have the best coffee, but they are clear on building a community. [18:40] God is the best brander in the world. Elizabeth believes that we are created with our unique brand inside of us, but it’s up to do the work and show up in an authentic and open way. [22:39] The most successful people learn from their mistakes and see “failure” as a learning lesson. [24:39] Your metron is a circle of influence, and too often we expect our metron to be the whole world. Our metron expands successfully when we find our community and serve them, without trying to be everything to everyone. [33:31] Consumers are getting more and more resistant to giving all their data away because they aren’t seeing the return. For example, with Facebook, we don’t quite know what all this data they have has brought into our lives. [38:44] As a brand, you must know, what is the enemy? [47:29] There is no limit to what you can achieve if you are in your own lane. Figure out who you are and double down on your gifts. Prosperity comes when you are in your lane. Quotes: “You are either succeeding or you learn. You only fail if you give up.” — Elizabeth “A confused consumer doesn’t buy.” — Elizabeth “If you do the work and you are willing to say, ‘Who am I really?’, and let me match that up with what I do, that is when the world opens up to you.” — Elizabeth “You don’t need to be something to everyone, just serve your group as best you can.” — Elizabeth Mentioned in This Episode: | | /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/19908098

Bringing Game Development to the People: Kathryn Guess of Microsoft Game Stack 07/15/2021

Bringing Game Development to the People: Kathryn Guess of Microsoft Game Stack Kathryn Guess is a Product Manager for Microsoft, who built Game Stack and Azure PlayFab brands from the ground up. She joins the show this week to talk about how gaming isn’t the isolating experience one thinks it may be, and how gaming actually helps build communities and join people together — especially during the pandemic. She talks about the important and challenging issues in gaming regarding mental health and reporting domestic abuse, what the democratization of gaming means for both individuals and developers, and how gaming can contribute to a holistic lifestyle. Takeaways: [2:41] In the past, game development has been accessible only to the wealthy. Game Stack is about making game development more available to the individual developer. Kathryn is bringing Game Development to the people and showing the world that gaming can be about connecting with your friends and family, and part of a holistic self-care routine. [5:24] Kathryn discusses the “aha” moment when she got together with game developers and listened to their unique set of struggles. [7:55] Game Stack Live can lead to preserving a culture and focusing on social justice in a way that is more about making a difference than just money. Kathryn speaks about how one game helped others connect through learning an indigenous language and cultural storytelling. [10:25] We can transfer successful technology from gaming and carry it over into business development. [18:21] Kathryn is a hard-core gamer herself. She gets up at 4:30 a.m. to play every morning. [22:07] Gaming is a great way to get people from all walks of life together and to find common ground. In this polarized climate, gaming welcomes people from all genders, classes, and races. [24:23] Kathryn appreciates the good-natured teasing that you hear in the gaming world. [31:13] How do we deal with domestic violence in gaming? Since you are so intimately in the lives and basically at home with the people you game with, can you report a concern? There isn’t a good answer yet, but Kathryn says there needs to be. [34:55] There’s a whole movement for absurd games because developers are getting the tools they need. [41:21] Kathryn discusses the astronomical increase in gaming during the pandemic, and created communities, and how Discord helps people stay in touch and find their own interest groups. For example, Veterans can connect with one another even during off gaming hours and feel less alone and more understood. Quotes: “Game Stack is about making game development more accessible to the individual developer.” — Kathryn “Game Stack is all about bringing game development to the broader people.” “Gaming isn’t just about shooting them up. It can be about connecting with friends and family and giving yourself some self-care.” — Kathryn “I think people saw over the past year how gaming can help and contribute to a holistic lifestyle.” — Kathryn Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/19820537

Position Change As Staying the Same with Carla Rover 05/20/2021

Position Change As Staying the Same with Carla Rover We’ve all dealt with clients that are directly problematic, or ones that mean well, but can have moments of toddler-like temper tantrums. Enter Carla Rover, an outspoken, very witty, and widely published writer, to help us navigate these waters. Carla talks about the reasons you may be getting ghosted after a job interview, content mapping and her way of doing it without emotion, and how best to show your value in a non-threatening way. She also gives her advice for writers and consultants new to the job market and how to get yourself to stand out (but not too much!) while virtual work continues to become the norm. Takeaways: [3:14] Carla talks about navigating a job search during the pandemic and why she decided to move away from telling companies what changes she would make during the interview. [7:55] Companies can be very resistant to change, and consultants have to navigate these waters almost in the way you would help a toddler cross the street. Carla says that it’s best not to indict them for their past choices, but instead, show them how you can help in a non-threatening but data-filled way. [10:54] We have to respect the world that people inhabit and keep our approach dignified. Carla discusses how there are more senior people looking for jobs than ever, and many well-established writers will take smaller jobs with fewer benefits than they previously would have. [15:21] Companies want things fixed quickly and Carla explains how we can best enact change by using data and research to cite our decisions. Make it about the numbers, and not you. It’s a matter of being realistic but wrapping it in a magical school bus so everyone feels happy and in control of their choices. [23:00] Carla feels like the interviews where she got ghosted may have been the ones where she tried to add value in the interview by providing suggestions. What to do when you get ghosted? Keep your head up, and move on. Learn from it, but don’t dwell on it. [26:05] The smartest thing for qualified people right now is to remain independent and develop their own approach. [29:15] The “people like us” approach calls for us to choose people we think are like us to trust and work with. This is an invisible way of blocking change, but if you can figure out how the business model works and handle it like an engineer, you will have an easier time. [35:42] Carla’s road map that she is creating now means less ego and more compassion and added value. Because she is taking data and writing a report based on that data, there are fewer arguments because you can always go back to the numbers. [44:42] Often the stuff that judges us is stuff that bothers us about ourselves. It’s important to find your own way to look within, whether that’s therapy, a daily bike ride, or some other way to process emotions and manage stress. Quotes: “We have to respect the clients’ weirdness, their psychosis, their need to be right.” — Carla “The smartest thing for qualified people right now is to remain independent and develop your own approach.” — Carla Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/19184408

Music Knows No Boundaries — Elham Al Marzooqui 05/16/2021

Music Knows No Boundaries — Elham Al Marzooqui This week, Kevin welcomes cellist Elham Al Marzooqi to the show. Elham is the first female cellist in the Emirates, along with being a Senior Legal Counsel for Flash Entertainment. Elham speaks about how she adjusted as a musician during the pandemic to connect with her audience online, and ways that she feels our society could better recognize and help musicians. Elham uses her platform to educate others on the cello and loves connecting and inspiring young women on her YouTube channel. She talks about the importance of lifelong learning, why it’s crucial to go for your dreams no matter what anyone on the sidelines is saying, and how she is constantly pushing outside of her comfort zone. Takeaways: [4:41] Elham talks about adjusting to a remote schedule during the pandemic at Flash Entertainment, where she is a Senior Legal Counsel. Like many new remote workers, there are good things about it (no commute) but then situations that call for self-management, such as knowing when to shut work off so you don’t work 24/7. [11:58] Many people that made their livelihood from playing music were affected during the shutdowns, and these musicians still need help and support. [17:02] Elham practices the cello at least two hours every day and reminds us that being a musician is such a big commitment of time, energy, and money. Musicians are professionals and have associated costs, and should not be offered just “exposure” to play somewhere anymore. [22:19] Through Elham’s channels, she likes to connect with women that are in the arts and interested in performing. [25:29] Musicianship is a lifelong process, and even the greatest ones could always practice to get a little bit better. Elham speaks about it like a sculpture, where you are always chipping away at it and fine-tuning the details. [25:47] Elham talks about submitting herself for the Amit Peled Online Cello Academy, something that took her out of her comfort zone but made her grow. [28:50] For Elham, the magic is in just playing, and not in self-promotion. She never set out to be the first of any kind, but focuses on doing what she loves and consistently working at it. [35:44] You don’t need to wait until conditions are perfect to go for what you want. Your showmanship is going to show while you are building up your craft. Quotes: “When these things shut down, there is a psychological impact that you see play out on every form of social media.” — Kevin “The journey is about art and less about self-promotion.” — Elham “I am always there to try and perfect my craft.” — Elham “You have to have a thick skin.” — Elham “I don’t want to look back on my life and regret not doing anything.” — Elham “Your showmanship is going to show while you are building up your craft.” — Elham Mentioned in This Episode: | /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/19124351

Life Lessons of a Recovering Douchebag with Joey Dumont 04/28/2021

Life Lessons of a Recovering Douchebag with Joey Dumont Joey Dumont returns to the show to share the inspiration behind his poignant, touching, and raw new book, Joey Somebody: The Life and Times of a Recovering Douchebag. Out now and available in stores, Joey’s book is relatable and all too typical for those who have struggled with addiction, abuse, and any type of loss or trauma. Joey talks about getting through the “heavy” chapters in the writing process, and on to lighter and more self-deprecating stories, as well as how he shed a lot of his douchebaggery in the process. Joey also catches us up on how he has been coping throughout the pandemic, what we can expect from him next, and why you may never hear him yelling from a hotel basement again. Takeaways: [4:18] Inspiration struck for Joey when his best childhood friend was tragically killed, and he saw how humor helped heal a fraction of the pain. In writing the book, he took the same approach to focus Chapters 1 to 4 on his tumultuous relationship with his father and step-father’s abuse, so he could get to the lighter matters towards the end. [8:04] It was like therapy for Joey to write about his father, and he found the process therapeutic and cathartic. Yes, it was dark, but it became easier, the more he wrote. [11:36] His writing process was really the first time Joey relived his brother’s death as well, and he knew he had to feel the emotions and cycle them through rather than push them down or try to distract himself away from the pain. [17:37] Men, especially in our society, are taught to not show their emotions or grief when really being vulnerable actually takes courage. [18:09] The persona we often carry around is heavy. If you can laugh at yourself, it helps you grow and even gives others around you the permission to be themselves. [24:02] Joey shares his top douchebag moments that even to this day he still mildly cringes about! Gold watches and custom suits, we sure have come a long way. [35:20] Confidence is great, but arrogance and puffing up due to insecurity typically have a different outcome. We need confidence to excel in the external world, but Joey talks about how he was able to connect more as a human with others when he realized how he was puffing up due to insecurity. [50:31] Although Joey sprinkles in a lot of humor in his work, he knows mental health and addiction are two serious topics. What makes this book so powerful is how relatable and typical it is. Quotes: “I wanted my kids to know that their heroes are vulnerable.” — Joey “You either cry it out or figure it out. You just can’t let it sit.” — Joey “If I can laugh at myself, it allows people to laugh with me in the process, and it takes away a lot of the anxiety.” — Joey Mentioned in This Episode: | /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/18901031

Rebranding Socialism as Conscious Capitalism 12/10/2020

Rebranding Socialism as Conscious Capitalism Joseph Jaffe has written five best-selling books and thousands of columns, along with launching the CoronaTV show during the pandemic. He and Kevin talk about reconciling our current state to look at the opportunities with wonder and awe, how a social contract would help the way we talk to each other online, and the deep need to reclaim social media and make it less political. Joseph also talks about conscious capitalism and how we can make money but still help each other, and why he believes we all need political couples therapy. Takeaways: [4:25] CoronaTV is a thoughtful and insightful show, not a call! [6:18] The global pandemic has many downsides and it is a life-changing event, but there is some good in it. For Joseph, it was developing CoronaTV where he has deep conversations with thought leaders and entertaining friends, and he is finding that he wouldn’t have time to dig in as deep if we weren’t home in quarantine. [9:12] It’s not that Joseph and Kevin feel bad for people still getting that corporate paycheck, but for those that have been laid off, it is almost like they have been given the gift of a reset. Joseph hopes that after all we have been through over the past couple of months, we won’t go back to our old bad ways and habits. [10:48] We can still be a capitalist society and make money, but we can be conscious about it and not at the expense of human beings. This is what Joseph calls “Conscious Capitalism.” [13:38] The biggest challenge we have now in marketing is apathy. [21:19] Kevin and Joseph discuss how social media and Twitter has become more of a broadcasting platform than a space for people to thoughtfully share balanced and nuanced information. Our algorithms are keeping us isolated and taking away the ability to think critically or see the other side of the argument. [33:22] For the “blue checks” on social media, there must be accountability in what you say and how you say it. Being verified on a social media site doesn’t necessarily mean you are worthy of having a platform to spread your message out into the world without any questioning or counterbalance of thought. [40:20] Joseph discusses the idea of a “Supreme Court of Truth” social contract where we are open to hearing the perspective of others, believe there is truth in their statement, and open to compromise. [47”07] We need to reclaim social media and not have everything so politicized. Quotes: “Sometimes you gotta be pushed. We might not have the fortitude or the stomach to see the change in our lives, if not for these life-changing moments.” “They say hindsight is 2020, except in 2020 when you don’t need hindsight to realize it sucks.” Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/17140475

At The Frontlines of Changing The Way We Communicate, Market, and Consume with Dan Granger 12/03/2020

At The Frontlines of Changing The Way We Communicate, Market, and Consume with Dan Granger Dan Granger is the CEO of Oxford Road, a Los Angeles-based ad agency that provides innovative and groundbreaking marketing campaigns for some of the best-known brands out there now including Hulu and DollarShaveClub. Dan joins the show to talk about creating real change in the way we communicate, how brands can navigate a divided marketplace, and how we can start to reward content creators and supporters for a more even and factual discourse. Dan also speaks about The Media Roundtable, and how people can get involved. Takeaways: [1:55] Dan discusses how LA traffic ended up being the inspiration for him to work in both FM and AM radio, and then eventually land in podcasting. In the podcasting sphere, he saw the potential to unlock a greater opportunity for different content and advertising possibilities than ever before. [3:43] Dan talks about launching an ad agency that specialized in podcasts, and soon he was placing ads in heavy-hitting shows such as and . [5:19] Dan worked with companies that were early advertisers in the podcast space. He saw how they were able to be innovative and disruptive with their approach and dig even deeper into helping listeners get to know their brand story. [7:30] As the world becomes more and more divided with our political beliefs and us-vs.-them mentality, it is tougher for marketers and brands to navigate how and where to reach their audience. [14:28] Dan’s mission is to create opportunities for media and marketers to be rewarded for bringing people together, rather than only benefitting when we are engaged in canceling and arguing with one another. With how strong the Twitter lynch mob mentality is now along with media bias and corporate influence, we have a long way to go. [19:27] Outrage industrial complex is a strategy that wants to keep us divided with the belief that you can make more money when people are outraged and pitted against each other. [20:00] The purpose of the Media Roundtable is to put a higher premium on words that advance ideas and bring people together to solve those programs. They have members of the media, creators, and brands that are interested, sign a pledge to use their talent and platform to unite rather than divide. [30:45] The Media Roundtable provides a place for thought leaders and marketers to broaden the discussion of how we can have a civil discourse and less a polarizing, monosyllabic, biased one. [48:18] It may be a challenge, but we first could have to make it in Facebook and other corporations' interest to create a financial model where people are rewarded for balanced, fair, and nuanced conversations. Quotes: “The very nature of the podcast listener is looking for different things. They are not afraid to be at the tip of the spear of a new way of doing something.” “News is better served when it’s even-handed.” “We gotta deal with each other, and we gotta keep dealing with each other.” “There is a market for the longer, nuanced conversation, we just have to do work and be patient that it will work out and pay off over time.” Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/17048447

Keeping the Team Dynamic and Culture in a New Remote Landscape with Adam Kleinberg 11/25/2020

Keeping the Team Dynamic and Culture in a New Remote Landscape with Adam Kleinberg This week, I welcome Adam Kleinberg, CEO and Co-Founder of Traction. We discuss the way culture is changing dramatically as a result of employees having the ability to work remotely, and how we can thrive in a remote environment without affecting the work or the team dynamic. Adam talks about Traction’s remote working policy, how they provide everyone with the tools to do their job professionally, and why you will want to make sure the Zoom camera is on when it’s required. Takeaways: [3:33] Adam talks about Traction’s transition of pivoting from being an agency into a brand experience consultancy, designed to support and turbocharge in-house teams. [6:13] Adam’s team makes sure everyone has their basic tools to do the job, whether it’s an office desk, computer monitor, or even phone setup. [9:46] They have also implemented a little of the budget for wellness, and put an emphasis on the work/life balance. [11:10] It is more important than ever to hire people not just for their skills, but if they really show up to be present, and be an integral and helpful member of the team. [12:48] Traction makes sure they let employees know that some meetings require a “camera-on” policy. [16:37] Adam sees a future where some people will choose to continue working remotely, while others will opt to be back in an office. It is up to the CEO and team visionaries to make both possible and functional. [20:49] The future may see more adjustments for salary based on the market in which an employee lives. [29:06] Yes, it’s true. Adam really was blogging back in the 1990s, before it was cool. [30:53] Adam discusses people moving out of the Bay Area and to other locations to be with their family, since it’s not required for the industry in the current moment. Quotes: “We have it in the handbook — don’t be a jerk.” — Adam “Part of building a great company is finding people who align with some sort of cultural ethos.” — Adam “We have to stop thinking about counting impressions and figure out how to make them.” — Adam “Good talent can live anywhere.” — Adam Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/16952501

Integrating Smart Data with Andreas Cohen 10/08/2020

Integrating Smart Data with Andreas Cohen Andreas Cohen is the Tribal Leader of the Smart Data Marketing Elite and founder of I-COM. He joins the show from Spain this week to explain why understanding Smart Data is important for businesses to stay competitive and make sure their message to the customer is consistent and effective. He also discusses the results from the Hackathon, the benefit of organizations that combine behavior with data science, and how he has been adapting and innovating due to the recent shift in networking and professional gatherings in person. Takeaways: The ways in which we defined and categorized data in a company as marketers have changed. While at first, it was about more than just a digital transformation, group leaders soon saw the importance of how data can be the catalyst to transform the business as a whole, and other departments than marketing. Andreas refers to Smart Data Marketing as the art of creatively leveraging value from Data to create competitive advantage in products, user experience, and promotion. I-COM is a Global Sector Association helping its members to achieve competitive advantage in Smart Data Marketing. At I-COM, their Data Science Hackathon broadened the scope of participants, helping them understand marketing and product development in an even broader sense. While we need hyperspecialists, our Chief Data or Digital Officers also will be the ones defining the standards for the organization and overseeing each unit and vendor. Data scientists are trained very skillfully in finding patterns and extracting value from the information they gather. I-COM has meetups where they gather and discuss the industry and obviously that has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. While online chats are great for now, they don’t replace the benefits of the connection that comes with talking to someone offline. We see more companies hiring people in the marketing sciences. Quotes: “For us, it’s about scaling what we are doing selectively.” “Maintaining the integrity of the community is priority number one.” “We are seeing companies get back after the shock and awe of the pandemic.” Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/16322774

Integrating the Spreadsheet and the Story with Rishad Tobaccowala 09/23/2020

Integrating the Spreadsheet and the Story with Rishad Tobaccowala Rishad Tobaccowala is an author, speaker, and advisor, named by Time Magazine as one of five “Marketing Innovators.” He joins the show this week to talk about his new book, Restoring the Soul of Business, and how we can transform personally and professionally in this new era of “The Great Re-invention.” Rishad and I also discuss why tech is nothing without talent, how leadership can create an environment for their talent to speak up, and why it’s best to ditch the PowerPoint every now and then at your meetings. Takeaways: [2:48] Rishad wrote his book, Restoring the Soul of Business, after traveling around the world and witnessing how leaders and managers were torn between how important data and tech actually was, and then struggling to understand what that data even meant for their own company. He saw that the companies that integrated data with their story did much better than ones that were solely data-driven. The book is organized into twelve chapters that you can read straight or skip around and it gives the reader much to work with in terms of leadership with a soul. [11:16] As a leader, it is your responsibility to help your people speak up in a safe environment. One example is senior managers asking their team after a meeting why their current course of action possibly may not work, or to encourage hypotheticals of what may go wrong. [22:53] In this time of the Great Re-Invention with COVID-19 and beyond, it is essential that professionals improve their skills and see themselves as a brand. [40:01] Great managers and leaders listen for what’s not being said. As more companies work from home, having smaller breakout meetings face to face (or Zoom to Zoom for now) can help build culture and actually use time wisely. Quotes: “Data is like electricity, you cannot today compete without it.” — R “Yes, leaders do matter, but one of the smartest things leaders do is surround themselves with world-class talent.” — R “The future of your career is up to you. It’s not up to someone in talent management or HR.” — R “We shouldn’t confuse activity with accomplishment.” — Kevin Mentioned in This Episode: | /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/16133417

The Pathology of Ghosting with David Berkowitz 08/19/2020

The Pathology of Ghosting with David Berkowitz David Berkowitz is my long time friend, colleague, founder of Serial Marketer, and an all-around good guy that will never ghost you. In fact, David feels as though it’s important to write back to everyone — even if it’s just a brief reply. This week he joins me for a conversation on why people ghost, what to do about it, and why you don’t want to be a victim of ghosting karma. We also talk about our definition of being an agent of change, and how that doesn’t always align with what the company is trying to get out of its interview candidates. Takeaways: Not only does David share a name with one of the most well known serial killers ever, aka the Son of Sam, but he used it to his advantage and Serial Marketer now takes the reins in Google search results when you type in his name. During the pandemic, it’s even harder to tell who is really “ghosting” you and who is just dealing with personal issues. It’s best to first not try and take it personally, and come from the perspective that maybe someone is dealing with some hardships. If you are sure you are being ghosted, it’s a likely sign that you dodged a bullet anyway. It may be a blessing in disguise to have someone not answer when they aren’t capable of having hard or uncomfortable conversations. It’s hard when friends ghost, but just downright unprofessional for roles such as recruiters or hiring managers to do it. It’s best not to ghost people even from the perspective that communicating back with them, even brief but respectfully, can lead to something good for you. The industry is enormous, but small enough that if you ghost, chances are you will see them in person at some point. Instead of ending phrases that close the door such as “hope you are well,” asking someone how they are doing in a 1:1 email will most likely yield better results. Even if the message or promotion isn’t a fit for him, David will still take the time to write back to the sender. You must draw boundaries when it comes to interviewing for a position and giving away full business and marketing plans. If they are looking for a consultant, be sure to get hired before you do all the work for free. Quotes: “It’s sobering right now. A little bit of empathy does go far.” — D “The more opportunities I create for others, then that’s more fun. It just gives people that chance to get out there.” — D “When you put a whole bunch of good stuff out there, it comes back to you.” — K Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/15680663

How The Facebook Ad Boycott Is Affecting The Industry with Mike Kujanek 08/13/2020

How The Facebook Ad Boycott Is Affecting The Industry with Mike Kujanek Mike Kujanek is the Founder & CEO at Magnitude Digital, an award-winning full-service digital marketing agency based in New York, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and Tokyo. Mike joins the show to talk about how to best navigate the ever-changing world when it comes to digital advertising and social media platforms. Mike and I talk about the Stop Hate for Profit campaign and how big brands pulling out of Facebook ads may affect the entire industry. We also discuss the need to diversify advertising strategies and how we can both participate in social justice and advocacy without taking away necessary revenue. Takeaways: Facebook has been criticized for sharing and monetizing misinformation. In June of 2020, a group of civil rights organizations including the Anti-Defamation League called on businesses to “hit pause on hate” and not advertise in July. Some of the larger advertisers may pull their advertising off Facebook indefinitely until the site is more aggressive against hate speech. The larger brands may be able to not use Facebook, but they have much more support than most small-to-mid-sized companies. Some companies cannot afford to get off Facebook, as they rely on it as one of their main revenue streams. We are in a duopoly where many advertisers are dependent upon the big two: Google and Facebook for their revenue and brand recognition. Brands must learn to not be so beholden on Facebook and treat it as a great communication device, but not the only source of connecting with their customer. It may seem like things are slow and will never pick back up, but this time is just a test of leadership. Keep your will and your drive high, and we will get through this! Quotes: “The world might be coming unglued, but you have to keep commerce and business moving.” “Brands have to be smarter about advanced analytics.” “People who have been pulling themselves up by the bootstraps over the course of time might not have an easier journey, but we are more equipped to handle this adversity.” Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/15604598

Embracing Digital Marketing and What We Can Learn from Comic Book Stores with Jeff Ferguson 07/02/2020

Embracing Digital Marketing and What We Can Learn from Comic Book Stores with Jeff Ferguson Jeff Ferguson joins the show to talk about how brands are stepping up to reengineer their digital involvement to rise and meet the needs of our current climate. Jeff has been on the scene since the early days of digital as a writer for the trades, speaker, and leader in agency, publishing, and the client-side. Jeff and Kevin discuss the role of entrepreneurs to problem-solve and give hope to the industry, adding the notion that we may even take some of these practices with us after the pandemic is over. Then, Jeff and Kevin give examples of the good, bad, and ugly of media responses from different companies about the pandemic, and even slip into a fun role-playing segment of the show! Takeaways: While a few comic book stores and record shops remain closed in all ways, Jeff noticed that there were some that adopted creative strategies to both move inventory and stay connected with their fan base. Some of the new advertising practices we develop in the pandemic will stick with us in the future and become new ways to engage with customers in a positive way (a fancy term for making money). Jeff predicts a shift where both smaller and bigger businesses will realize that including a digital portion of their brand or services will get them that direct-to-consumer sales channel. Also, traditional media channels are seeing the way digital can rewrite, recut, and reimagine their advertising instead of shutting it all down, and they may follow suit in this way as well. Things are going to be different, but it’s not going to be that bad, despite what some advertising reports may tell you. Indulgent posts from CEO’s and grandstanding with a sales message both don’t help. What does help is honest and transparent communication and true care for the brands’ customers and their community. Quotes: “There will be enduring things that we have learned that will stick with us.” Entrepreneurialism has always been about solving problems.” “You have to be able to transform and do whatever you need to do.” Mentioned in This Episode: Geeky Quote from Matt Damon Mars Movie /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/15060848

Honesty Will Have a Come Back, But Not For the Reasons You Think with Joey Dumont 06/26/2020

Honesty Will Have a Come Back, But Not For the Reasons You Think with Joey Dumont Joey Dumont is a leader in the digital space and known for work that encourages brands to be truthful and genuine with their customers. He joins the show to talk about his role as the Co-Founder and Partner Lead at True Thirty and Executive Producer of the documentary, The Naked Brand. Joey shares how we can take back communication and honesty in the advertising industry and describes a few examples of brands that do it right, and what we can learn from them. Joey was formerly the Partner/Managing Director at Questus, an award-winning digital ad agency. Takeaways: Joey has spent over 15 years in the Advertising space and was the Executive Producer of a documentary that came out in 2012 called The Naked Brand. The Naked Brand showed how corporates and iconic CEO’s had more success with their audience when they were honest and loyal, even about the challenges or not-so-great things surrounding the company. At True Thirty, LLC, Joey combines his advertising background with his colleague’s expertise in journalism and creative strategy. Together, they form a holistic unit that helps brands really know what people are saying about them, which sometimes can be quite shocking and unexpected. The immediate impact of what is being said on social media and how people are saying it is uncharted territory in a way we haven’t seen before. This conversation is a great reminder to use the pause button before we respond in heated arguments online. When we take a minute to check in with our emotions and understand where others may be coming from, our community can become just a little less divided. Not only is being honest the moral thing to do, but it’s also the best thing for your brand and employees. What’s playing out in social media is not always what is reflective of the discourse in real life. Quotes: “It’s not what we think, it’s what is happening about there.” (Joey on his work at True Thirty, LLC) “We have to start to control the contempt for one another. It’s just not going to work.” “Be dead honest about what you are doing, and then you have nothing to hide.” Mentioned in This Episode: IAB Op-Ed on Panic Buying /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/14979014

Creating Civility and Opportunity with Rob Norman 06/09/2020

Creating Civility and Opportunity with Rob Norman The well-known and widely-respected Rob Norman joins the show this week. Before retiring, Rob served as GroupM’s North American CEO and global chief digital officer. In today’s episode, Rob and Kevin talk about creating a resume that highlights your superpowers, the need to be self-aware and civil to one another now more than ever, and how we can still try to maintain social relationships during this remote time. Takeaways: While many of us are lucky to have a job where we can work from home, we are missing out on getting a feel for what our coworkers and colleagues are up to via osmosis from walking and talking with them. Rob discusses the new form of division where people are forced back to work due to the nature of their work, or the nature of their domestic situation. We must be mindful of businesses that are dependent on large populations for their survival. The more we are self-aware and thoughtful of other people, the more we lessen the risk of harm for the entire population. While we are social creatures and need personal relationships in work and personal life to remain healthy, we can moderate how we engage in social activities to make them safer. Instead of viewing your resume as just one isolated job after another, think about what you can offer now that no one else has done. Yes, some people are close to you for clout, while some are your true friends. When you have a career like Rob where you are truly respected and endeared, they still stick around after retirement. While we may have seen large budget cuts at the start of the pandemic, Rob delineated that it is a response to the emergency, not a reason for us to panic that the industry has changed completely. Quotes: “Don’t think about your resume as a series of jobs, but try to deconstruct it to find a superpower that can arise from something you have done. “A lot of people have a relationship with your business card, and a lot of people have a relationship with you. Sometime’s it’s both.” Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/14757128

Breaking the Mold of Traditional Sales Conversations with Doug Weaver of Upstream 05/15/2020

Breaking the Mold of Traditional Sales Conversations with Doug Weaver of Upstream Doug Weaver is a legend in the world of sales strategy and digital sales leadership. He is also the Founder & CEO of Upstream Group, Inc. and uses his expertise to help others break the mold of traditional sales conversations and get the best results for both themselves and their potential clients. He joins the show to share some of the best practices in digital sales and survival skills during the pandemic. Doug also talks about what strategies work best to keep large virtual meetings interesting and engaging. Takeaways: ● Even though we are temporarily virtual, we can still make connections and help others feel seen and understood. During calls of upwards of 75–80 people, Doug personalizes it by calling people out by name and asking for their opinions while making a presentation. ● People can feel it immediately when you are just going through the motions and not invested in truly helping them. We can show empathy by doing our homework before, and knowing the business of our potential clients. ● While companies ease back into the new office structure, it is important to stay educated and hungry for information that keeps you essential to your industry and job. ● To stay on the edge of your game, you have to know more about your client than your competitor does and be open to knowledge that expands your skillset and helps others. ● We should think less about getting the business of our clients and more about if we actually deserve it. ● Our sales conversations can be a chance to help potential clients overcome a shortcoming in their business, and show that we truly deserve their loyalty. ● Keep learning and challenging yourself every day. Quotes: ● “Authenticity is the new professionalism.” ● “You have to run this not as an entertainer, but as a party host.” ● “We’ve got to understand the client’s business.” ● “Everyone focuses on getting the business, we don’t focus enough on deserving it.” Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/14430911

Digital Networking, CDX, and Audience Customization with Drew Ianni of CDX 05/06/2020

Digital Networking, CDX, and Audience Customization with Drew Ianni of CDX Drew Ianni, Founder, and Chairman of CDX, a conference series for senior digital executives, joins the show this week. Drew and Kevin discuss the merge into the Techonomy family and suggestions as to how we can best adjust to networking digitally for the time being. Drew also shares examples of speakers that connected to the audience and moved them with their words and messages, and also moments that didn’t go to plan, and the lessons learned. He also mentions what we can expect from the virtual conference in June, and ways to take advantage of the editorial content that will be released soon. Takeaways: What is happening now in the virtual conferencing space, and what we can expect in the future. What it was like for CDX to become part of the Techonomy family in this time of restructuring and reformatting how we connect and interact. Advice for conferences to get speakers and bring both actionable insights and connect with the audience. Why the CDX conference remains free to attend, and more about the editorial content that will soon be released. Ways that we can work through the setback of not being able to network face-to-face for the present moment, and best practices for digital networking. The success that conferences have when they get comfortable with being rejected from potential speakers, and continue to hustle and stay humble to book the best guests. Tips for speakers on customizing your speech according to the audience and city. Moments that the speakers and presentations at the CDX conference did not go as planned, and what lessons Drew took away from the experience. When you have respect for the people around you, your audience will get something relevant to them. Quotes: “If you are doing weekly one-on-ones, you have to cherry-pick and pick the best people out of your network.” “It’s a temporary thing you have to figure out. The conference business will be back, and for those in the conference business, can you make it on through to the other side?” Mentioned in This Episode: Martin Sorrell at CDX Conference Video /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/14312342

Search Engine Marketing with Chris Boggs and the COV-Ad Pandemic 04/29/2020

Search Engine Marketing with Chris Boggs and the COV-Ad Pandemic Chris Boggs is a top-tier digital marketing consultant and one of the stewards in Search Engine Marketing. He joins the show this week to talk about what he has seen change the most over his many years of experience in SEO, PPC, social media, and web analytics, and where he sees the trends moving next. Chris and Kevin also discuss the state of SEMPO (Search Engine Marketing Professionals Organization) and how it spawned many of the digital marketing practices we still see today. Takeaways: ● Chris was a member of the Board of Directors for SEMPO, the Search Engine Marketing Professionals Organization, for 14 years. ● There was an infamous meeting in SEMPO’s history with some uproar and drama that they, fortunately, survived through. ● SEMPO has helped spark interest in executives at the C-Level to care about organic and paid search. ● SEMPO became a part of the Digital Analytics Association and Chris names a few of many of the benefits and support they get from DAA membership. ● Much like Kevin, Chris still communicates with people that he has known for over 14 years thanks to SEMPO and the digital marketing tribe. ● Chris’s intention with SEMPO is to slowly build up educational content and discuss and implement current best practices within the industry. ● Many of the pitch decks, common themes, and terms within the digital marketing world came from SEMPO. While it was the Wild West in that time (and still is to a certain extent) the effort set forth to have consistency and organization did make a big difference. ● Chris doesn’t use his SEMPO position for his own business but instead uses it as a place for unbiased research and to help others. ● We have to embrace AI, but to integrate with it our existing knowledge and experience. Quotes: ● “The goal is to continue to point people in the right place for networking and education.” ● “The role of a company is to put information out there that is not biased and not trying to serve a predetermined agenda is important.” ● “You have to have the experience to benefit from the value of the AI.” Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/14204483

The Do-Good Auto Coalition with CEO Diana Lee 04/24/2020

The Do-Good Auto Coalition with CEO Diana Lee Constellation Agency Cofounder and Do-Good Auto Coalition CEO Diana Lee joins the show today to share how she is helping the auto industry step up in a time of crisis and get food and supplies to the people and organizations that need it most. She shares how her experience from age 18 in the automotive industry gave her a thick skin and can-do attitude that helps her today, what the Do-Good Auto Coalition does in terms of outreach, what challenges they are currently facing, and what you can do to help. Takeaways: The Do-Good Auto Coalition comprises dealers who have volunteered to deliver prescription medicine, food, and other items to needy seniors and others in their communities. Most of the first dealers to sign up are located in and around New York City but the coalition will soon spread to other cities, such as Detroit and Chicago. Diana started selling cars at 18 and used her sales skills to put herself through college. Working in car sales shaped her as a person and gave her a deep understanding of the auto industry and ways that it can help provide resources for others. The Do-Good Auto Coalition focuses on uniting the community and making a meaningful change. The Coalition acts as the middleman between dealers, volunteers, food rescue services, and citizens. The Coalition just did one rescue that consisted of 13,000 lbs. of food and six cars. These types of big changes can happen when we are able to provide transportation for food rescue companies. The DGAC also helps drivers that need work and give a purpose to employees of dealers, automakers, and manufacturers that want to work but can’t. Social distancing is a privilege, and many people have to leave their homes to stand in line for food or other crucial resources. Brands that are aware of how they can help their community and take action will be the first in line to get commerce from loyal customers when business fully resumes. Quotes: “If we don’t actually rescue those foods they will all go to waste, and the pantries need them.” “One volunteer with one car can’t do what we need to do at this point.” “Social distancing is a privilege.” “If I, a healthy human being that’s got resources can’t order food, what happens to everybody else?” Mentioned in This Episode: Automotive News story: DGAC delivers 2,500 lbs of potatoes to a Manhattan food bank: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/14136350

Successful Brand Storytelling in the Current Climate 04/16/2020

Successful Brand Storytelling in the Current Climate Tricia Nichols is currently the Chief Marketing Officer at Independent Pet Partners and was Senior Vice President of Marketing at Estee Lauder along with leadership roles in a variety of different industries. Tricia joins the show to talk about how brands can use authentic storytelling to get their message across and bond with the consumer, what customer currency is and how we can gain it in marketing, and the new ways of operating that we can adapt to and thrive in this new way of operating. Takeaways: ● Storytelling is what drew Tricia to marketing and she appreciates that brands can share their story in a way that genuinely helps and moves others. ● Consumers are smarter than ever now and see through a lot of the old manipulative advertising techniques. Things that work in brand storytelling are more mindfulness and microstories. ● Brands must provide a compelling reason for their consumer to follow, trust, and engage with them. ● Consumer currency is a brand bonding metric and a blueprint to keep the consumer at the heart of the whole journey. ● We can build consumer currencies in many ways including providing expertise, filling the white space in that industry, making things easy and fun, and making their customers feel as though they are communicating with a friend. ● Brands must not just know the “how” of what they do, but also the “why.” ● What is most important now is keeping wellness at the forefront of how brands communicate with their consumers. ● It is important to know the difference between educating and providing value, and grandstanding and just speaking for the sake of being heard. ● We can adapt to the new world instead of throwing away everything we know. We will always be pivoting in business since consumers are constantly rewriting their lives. Quotes: ● “You are not just sold by the brand, you are sold by the benefit of what that product is.” ● “Wellness should be on everyone’s mind as number one, right now.” ● “If a brand could do anything, it should be asking how can I help and what do people need to know.” Mentioned in This Episode: /episode/index/show/tmikmr/id/14012951

Rick Parkhill Talks iMedia and Helping the Industry Grow in a Healthy Way 03/19/2020

How Will Advertising Be Bought Going Forward with Jim Spanfeller 03/12/2020

TMI with Kevin Ryan

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