Brands, Beats & Bytes

Album 8 Track 3 - What’s Poppin? Why Commerce Media is the New Golden Child w/Tim SpenglerIn this episode of Brands, Beats and Bytes, hosts DC and LT sit down with Scale Team Advisory Co-Founder and Managing Partner, Tim Spengler, to talk all things Retail and Commerce Media Networks, the "What's Poppin" topic that is rapidly reshaping the advertising landscape.We are dropping this special edition as a companion piece to our recent Jack Myers episode, and we’ve got the unofficial "third co-host" of the show to break it all down. We are talking about why performance marketing acolytes are shifting their gaze to this new horizon, the "virtual consumption" lie that traditional data couldn't catch, and why the ability to track "identity" is the new currency of the realm.Whether you’re a C-Suite leader or a junior marketer, this conversation dives into why commerce media has exploded into a $67 billion industry (overtaking traditional TV!) and why smart brands are going all in to achieve both scale and precision.Key Takeaways:Truth Over Talk: How "data-led, tech-enabled" purchase history eliminates the gap between what consumers say they do and what they actually buy.The Holy Grail Found: How Retail Media Networks finally solve the age-old marketing dilemma by delivering both high-volume scale and laser-focused precision across the full funnel.Build and Borrow: Why brands entering this space cannot afford "learning curve" mistakes and must blend internal teams with external expertise to launch successfully.Mentioned in this Episode:Lead Human Podcast: Hosted by Tim Spengler & Jack Myers Jack Myers Episode: Check out our first drop of 2026 for the companion conversation! Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share with a fellow Brand Nerd!Instagram | LinkedIn

Album 8 Track 2 - What's Poppin? CFP Fandom & the Rise of Fansville w/Ryan LehrIn this episode of Brands, Beats and Bytes, hosts DC and LT sit down with Deutsch Co-Chief Creative Officer, EVP, Ryan Lehr to talk all things CFP Fandom and the Rise of the Fansville campaign that brings the football fan's experience to life. We are dropping this special edition right before the CFP title game, and we’ve got the perfect guest to break it all down: Ryan Lehr. We are talking about what's in "the gumbo" of making a successful campaign, as the Dr. Pepper Fansville, college football trends and to why Indiana (yes, Indiana!) is the ultimate underdog story.Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just a casual observer, this conversation dives into why 32% of the country is obsessed with college football and why smart brands are going all in.Key Takeaways:Market Share Wins: How staying authentic to the sport helped Dr. Pepper climb from #4 to #2.Agile Marketing: How to pivot creative strategy when rules change overnight (literally).Leadership Lessons: Why the best client relationships feel like "one team, one dream."Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and share with a fellow Brand Nerd!Instagram

Album 8 Track 1 - How to future-proof your career in 2026 with Jack MyersIn this episode of Brands, Beats and Bytes, hosts DC and LT sit down with Jack Myers to kick off our 8th album! The perfect start to a new year, bringing insight and inspiration to the virtual building.Meet Jack Myers, THE Media Futurist & VisionaryJack Myers is a master storyteller, media ecologist, and generational visionary whose work explores the evolving relationships between technology, culture, and human consciousness. He is the founder of The Myers Report, which has served as a trusted intelligence platform for industry leaders since 1984, and the MediaVillage Education Foundation.A former executive at CBS and WPLJ radio, Jack has advised major corporations including Microsoft, General Motors, and The Walt Disney Company. He is an accomplished author of bestsellers such as The Future of Men: Masculinity in the 21st Century and the upcoming book Your Third Brain: Powering A Future of Unimagined Possibilities. Currently, Jack serves as a Senior Lecturer on New Media Theory at the University of Arizona and is the co-host of the Lead Human podcast.Stay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram

Album 7 Track 26 - BBB Marketing Awards (Part 2 - Brand Bangers)Welcome to our first annual Brands, Beats & Bytes Marketing Awards for 2025 which are categorized as either Brand “Bangers” or “Brand Busts!”  We thought this would be fun, engaging and where we would also like to hear from you on our Linkedin pages including the BPD LinkedIn page. Stay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | LinkedIn (DC) | LinkedIn (LT)

Album 7 Track 25 - BBB Marketing Awards (Part 1 - Brand Busts)Welcome to our first annual Brands, Beats & Bytes Marketing Awards for 2025 which are categorized as either Brand “Bangers” or “Brand Busts!”  We thought this would be fun, engaging and where we would also like to hear from you on our Linkedin pages including the BPD LinkedIn page. Stay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | LinkedIn (DC) | LinkedIn (LT)

Album 7 Track 24 - From Bottle Sorter to C-Suite w/Jim TrebilcockIn this episode of Brands, Beats and Bytes, hosts DC and LT sit down with beverage industry legend Jim Trebilcock, the former Chief Commercial Officer and CMO of Dr. Pepper Snapple Group and Keurig Dr. Pepper. This isn't just a marketing conversation; it is a masterclass in resilience and business strategy from a man who started his career sorting bottles and driving a delivery truck in a parking lot.Jim pulls back the curtain on some of the most pivotal moments in beverage history. He reveals the "Tracks of My Tears" story behind 7UP’s decline against the juggernaut of Sprite, details the high-stakes negotiation where Dr. Pepper almost lost the College Football Playoff sponsorship to Coca-Cola , and shares the humbling lesson of his biggest product failure, 7UP Gold.Packed with hard truths about the "self-inflicted" irrelevance of modern CMOs and the dangers of the "LinkedIn Factor," this episode is essential listening for anyone who wants to understand the art of the deal, the science of execution, and the power of humble leadership.Key Takeaways: The "Ground Up" AdvantageThe 7UP vs. Sprite Case StudyThe "Self-Inflicted" CMO CrisisThe "LinkedIn Factor"A Billion-Dollar Negotiation LessonEmbracing FailureStay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | Twitter

Album 7 Track 23 - The Alleyoop Advantage w/Gabe LulloIn this episode of Brands, Beats & Bytes, the Brand Nerds sit down with Gabe Lullo—CEO, storyteller, and music lover—to unpack what truly brings marketing and sales into harmony. Gabe shares sharp insights on leadership, storytelling, and why marketers must understand the sales call. DC delivers one of the show’s most memorable reflections, comparing Gabe’s business brilliance to Jimmy Page’s iconic guitar licks—precise, rhythmic, and unforgettable. Packed with wisdom, personal lessons, and practical takeaways, this conversation is a masterclass in aligning teams, communicating with impact, and using stories to drive meaningful connection and momentum.Key Takeaways: Marketing & Sales Must Operate as OneDeliver Hard News ObjectivelyMarketers Should Listen to Sales CallsTreat “No” as Data, Not DefeatBuild the Process Manually Before Adding TechCommunicate in a Simple, Repeatable FrameworkStay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | Twitter

Album 7 Track 22 - Crafting Content for the World w/Shaheen Samavati In this episode of Brands, Beats & Bytes, we sit down with Shaheen Samavati, a journalist-turned-entrepreneur, to explore the fearless choices and lessons that shaped her career. From navigating early missteps in translation projects to launching her own company, Shaheen shares how saying “yes” before knowing the outcome, owning your mistakes, and staying true to your voice can create powerful opportunities. Tune in for a candid conversation about storytelling, mentorship, and building a brand with courage and clarity.Key Takeaways: Pull People In with StorytellingCreate the World Before the StoryMentorship MattersOwn Your MistakesFearlessness and Taking the LeapStay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | Twitter

REMIX: Album 7 Track 14 - Authenticity Over Algorithm w/Jeff CrowBrand Nerds, Brand Nerds, Brand Nerds — we are back from our summer hiatus and we missed ya'll! Today's guest is considered both friend and family - so you know it's a good one. Former Coca-Cola alum, Jeff Crow joins us today to share what he's learned throughout his career with details from his time working with the legendary Kobe Bryant, alongside our own DC, to his current role at TapMango. A strong episode to come back from our summer break - enjoy! Here are a few key takeaways from the episode:Being Consumer FocusedLearning ConfidenceSurround Yourself with Good PeopleAlways Prioritize Your Family & Loved OnesBeing a Five Tool Business PersonGrowth-Based Decision MakingP&L ManagementBrand FirstManaging in Every DirectionData-Informed Decision MakingStay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | Twitter

Album 7 Track 21 - What's Poppin? Jeep…Sex and/or Family Friendly?We are back in the virtual building with a special episode of Brands, Beats, & Bytes - What's Poppin' Edition. Today we are diving into the recent Jeep/Wagoneer marketing tactic - Sex and/or Family friendly vehicle?We'd love to hear your thoughts - find us on social media and drop us a comment! Stay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | Twitter

Album 7 Track 20 - Brands, Meet Humanology w/Ivan JuzangIn this thought-provoking episode of Brands, Beats & Bytes, the Brand Nerds sit down with Ivan Juzang, founder of MEE Productions, to explore how heart and humanity drive meaningful impact in marketing, storytelling, and social change.Ivan shares lessons from his unique journey—bridging private and public sectors, blending technology with “humanology,” and using emotional connection to make brands and messages resonate deeply. From his early work crafting shareable film trailers for New Line Cinema to developing campaigns that spark authentic word-of-mouth in underserved communities, Ivan unpacks how behavior change happens in a social context—and why marketers must understand the environments their audiences live in.Hosts Darryl “DC” Cobbin and Larry Taman reflect on key takeaways, including:Leading with purpose, not money.Building emotional connection between brands and audiences.Balancing data-driven strategy with empathy and integrity.The importance of humanology in brand and marketingStay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | Twitter

REMIX: Album 2 Track 4 – Tim Spengler, President M1 US, Former Worldwide CEO of Magna Global, President Initiative, President of Content Marketing and Revenue, I Heart Media and overall Media Maven who has seen it all from both the agency side and the content/client side.Hey Brand Nerds! Filled with stories and challenging the hosts like no other, you go Tim! His foundation is the wonderful encouragement provided by Tim’s Mom, Roseann Spengler (Yes, encouragement is powerful, see Album 2 Track 1 with James Brown Founder of EncouragementX for more). Not sure about the Tom Carvel bump as a kid, but wow, what a fun, informative and entertaining show! Please enjoy this track and learn about a variety of topics highlighted by:• “You can only tie me in honesty, you can’t beat me”• TV 3.0• Changing jobs, you start over, they don’t know who you are and they don’t care- best way to handle it…• Being a student of it all, always…• Where you are says a lot about who you are#timspengler #marketing #branding #advertising #media #mediamaven #m1

REMIX: Album 4 Track 19 - The Power of Community; Globally & Locally w/Bianca BlakeBrand Nerds! We have a seasoned marketer in the building today! Bianca Blake is bringing her career experience to the conversation that will make you consider how you are approaching marketing, the power of a community, and the grit and confidence it takes to make it as an entrepreneur. From her time in corporate America to her impact in Sub-Saharan Africa - Bianca has experienced a thing or two and she's here to share it with you. An episode that you don't want to miss. Check-it out! 

Album 7 Track 19 - Mentorship, Marketing, and Mastery w/Bill PearceBrand Nerds, welcome back to Brands, Beats, & Bytes! While LT may have met today's guest at an MLB game - he's a true Brand Nerd at heart and has brought the jew-els to today's episode.Bill Pearce has a background of CPG, brand and marketing, and is now leading the future through education. We know you'll enjoy getting to know Bill just as much as we did! Here are a few key takeaways from the episode:Build brand first. Know your X factor. Remember: less is more. Be a mentor who listens. The Importance of setting clear rules.Don’t confuse tactics with brand. Prioritize balance. Be bold, not lukewarm. Stay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | Twitter

Album 7 Track 18 - The Power of Culture-Led Brands w/Tebogo KakurupaBrand Nerds, we are going global today and reporting live from our virtual building with guest Tebogo Kakurupa of South Africa!Tebogo has a strong passion for culture and has brought that into each and every project he has worked on. Sharing South Africa's Heritage Day with us, Tebogo shares what he's learned from his career and what he is thinking about the future of marketing, agencies, influencer marketing, and AI. We can't wait to hear what you think of this episode - enjoy! Here are a few key takeaways from the episode:Be culture-led.Too much information can be a foe.Don’t be led by money.Tech has never fallen in love and had its heart broken - remember that when it comes to AI.Self-belief is the core of everything you do.Stay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | Twitter

Album 7 Track 17 - Elevating Your Brand Through Music w/Jesse KirshbaumBrand Nerds, our guest today is a true intersection of brand, tech, and culture. Jesse Kirshbaum, Founder of NUE Agency is a true brand and music pioneer, bringing his wide range of experience and knowledge to our virtual building! Here are a few key takeaways from the episode:Music comes in only two forms: good and bad.Every brand needs a soundtrack that amplifies its strategy.Find a trusted partner with complementary strengths.Embrace technology fully. Adapt, innovate, and define your lane.Stay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | Twitter

Album 7 Track 16 - Health is the True Wealth w/Scott RobinsonWe have family in the building, Brand Nerds! Today's special guest is a former Coke (KO) alum and close friend and colleague of our hosts. We are getting wisdom and jew-els dropped that will inspire you and help you in your career. We know that you'll love it and can't wait to hear your thoughts and reflections! Here are a few key takeaways from the episode:Always be your authentic selfBe Proactive - Act AccordinglyDon't chase the moneyLean into tech - but be knowledgable about itPay it forwardStay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | Twitter

Album 7 Track 15 - From Setback to Startup w/Jodi Anderson Jr. Brand Nerds, we have a great full circle moment today on the show, a first for us - Jodi Anderson Jr. is our esteemed guest AND former producer of our show! From his days on Standford's campus to the CEO of Rezme, a tech-start up, Jodi's story truly inspires. Jodi is a multifaceted professional with an incredible background that defies the odds - you don't want to miss this. Welcome back to the virtual building, Jodi Anderson Jr.! Here are a few key takeaways from the episode:Education is a Transformational ForceBrand Identity Matters, Looking at Allen IversonVisionary Leadership, Thinking 5, 10, 15 Years in the FutureLeadership in Action, working alongside your teamBrand Clarity, Is important to understand your brand lover!Human Connection is still important with tech and AiStay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | Twitter

Album 7 Track 14 - Authenticity Over Algorithm w/Jeff CrowBrand Nerds, Brand Nerds, Brand Nerds — we are back from our summer hiatus and we missed ya'll! Today's guest is considered both friend and family - so you know it's a good one. Former Coca-Cola alum, Jeff Crow joins us today to share what he's learned throughout his career with details from his time working with the legendary Kobe Bryant, alongside our own DC, to his current role at TapMango. A strong episode to come back from our summer break - enjoy! Here are a few key takeaways from the episode:Being Consumer FocusedLearning ConfidenceSurround Yourself with Good PeopleAlways Prioritize Your Family & Loved OnesBeing a Five Tool Business PersonGrowth-Based Decision MakingP&L ManagementBrand FirstManaging in Every DirectionData-Informed Decision MakingStay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | Twitter

REMIX: Album 4 Track 22 - Comedy, The Clintons, & Creating a Cultural Impact w/Craig MinassianThis week's guest is a marketing expert that is bringing his experience from sports to politics to the virtual building! Whether you are looking to go in event production, comedy, or politics, Craig is bringing jew-els for you to learn from and laugh from...not to mention an epic F-Up that all professionals who have been an intern will understand.Here are a few key takeaways from the episode:Comedy brings people together to talk about a variety of topics (if done right)Craig is a savant when it comes to bringing together of possibility, responsibility, and participationThere is a great influence in not only your bosses but also your peersWant to publish a tweet? Do this first... NOTES:Clinton Global InitiativeStay Up-To-Date on All Things Brands, Beats, & Bytes on SocialInstagram | Twitter