On Brand with Nick Westergaard

With 20 years of CPG experience, Kathy Guzmán Galloway has become known as the “The Clarity Wizard.” Her work for brands like Nature Made, REI, and Lay’s helps organizations transform data into strategy and action. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Kathy Guzmán Galloway Kathy Guzmán Galloway is an accomplished strategist, consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry veteran, and brand positioning expert. With 20 years of CPG experience, Kathy, known as The Clarity Wizard, has helped hundreds of organizations increase revenue and decrease risk by clarifying their brand positioning. She’s worked with brands like Nature Made, Lay’s, and Chiki Chiki Boom Boom, among others, to turn strategy and data into action. Kathy has worked with numerous CPG brands on their brand positioning, while also sharing her knowledge and frameworks to start-up founders with 7-Eleven's Brands with Heart program, REI + Founded Outdoors' BIPOC accelerator, and as a Master Teacher for SKU, the CPG Accelerator. Kathy is an Afro-Latinx Jersey girl living in Texas, proud daughter of Dominican immigrants, and a two-time girl mom who loves cooking, beaches and 90s merengue. From the Show What brand has made Kathy smile recently? A very on-brand smile with Zeelool, as Kathy notes, a brand that has positioned themselves strategically in a crowded market. To learn more, check out Kathy's Clarity Wizard website. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rob Meyerson is a brand consultant, professional namer, and co-author of the sixth edition of Designing Brand Identity. On his previous visit to the show, we discussed his work as a namer. For his return, we zoomed out to focus on how brands of all shapes and sizes can design an effective brand identity. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Rob Meyerson Rob Meyerson is a brand consultant and professional namer who runs Heirloom, an independent brand strategy and identity consultancy. With Alina Wheeler, he co-authored the sixth edition of the bestselling Designing Brand Identity: A Comprehensive Guide to the World of Brands and Branding. Rob is also the author of the book Brand Naming, creator and host of the podcast How Brands Are Built, and a contributor to leading publications such as Harvard Business Review, Entrepreneur, and Business Insider. From the Show What's in a name? As we know from Rob's last visit to the show, a lot. Designing Brand Identity is a tried and true resource. As Rob notes of the title and scope of the book, “We need all of those words in their biggest sense.” Sadly ... Designing Brand Identity co-author Alina Wheeler passed away recently. AIGA Philadelphia set up a memorial scholarship in her name to honor her legacy. What brand has made Rob smile recently? Rob is a big fan of the sparkling CBD beverage Recess. Why? “You can tell they have a lot of love for design and the name speaks to taking a break.” To learn more, check out Rob’s personal website and find the latest edition of Designing Brand Identity on Amazon. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Aisea Laungaue is a Partner and Chief Strategy Officer at Anomaly LA. Throughout his global career, his work has sat at the intersection of marketing and entertainment for brands ranging from boy bands to whiskey brands. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Aisea Laungaue Aisea Laungaue was born to Tongan parents in New Zealand, growing up in Australia, and now calls Los Angeles home. All that means is that he has a lot of passports and can quickly tell you when the best times are to organize a call between all those countries. Aisea is Partner and Chief Strategy Officer at Anomaly Los Angeles, where he’s overseen its growth from just himself as the first employee to a team of over 100 serving the likes of General Mills, HOKA, Expedia, and Inspire Brands (Jimmy John’s and Buffalo Wild Wings). His team's work has been recognized everywhere from Cannes and Effies, from the NYPost to Vogue. He was previously Co-Head of Planning at Anomaly New York with leadership stints at Saatchi & Saatchi Sydney and New York and Creative Artists Agency (CAA) in Los Angeles. From the Show What brand has made Aisea smile recently? I was intrigued when Aisea asked if he could share a smile that also made him think. The brand? Building brands for creators, he pointed us to Beyoncé and the recent success of Cowboy Carter. However, it made him think ... You'll have to listen to the show to learn why. Connect with Aisea on LinkedIn and X and check out the Anomaly website. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anastasia Kārkliņa Gabriel is a senior insights lead at Reddit and author of the book Cultural Intelligence. Her work as a cultural theorist and strategist helps people use data to understand their audience and explore challenging topics. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Anastasia Kārkliņa Gabriel Dr. Anastasia Kārkliņa Gabriel is a cultural theorist and strategist, specializing in inclusivity within marketing, media, and tech. Currently, a senior insights lead at Reddit, Dr. Gabriel earned her doctorate in cultural studies from Duke University and consulted for the world’s top brands at agencies like Wieden+Kennedy, Dentsu Creative, Kantar, and McCann New York. A lifelong activist, she helps brands ignite cultural innovation and leverage the power of media for good. Her insights have been featured by AdWeek, ANA, AW360, WSJ, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and Teen Vogue. She is the author of Cultural Intelligence for Marketers: Building an Inclusive Marketing Strategy, published by Kogan Page. From the Show Connect with Anastasia on LinkedIn. What brand has made Anastasia smile recently? She shared a recent and very on-brand smile from Coca-Cola on their "For Everyone" campaign. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Thomas Mustac is Otter PRr's medical and health industry PR specialist. His work helps brands in these complex industries navigate issues including — and especially — crisis communication. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Thomas Mustac Thomas Mustac is Otter PRr's medical and health industry PR specialist. He previously held positions at the Dr. Oz Show and New York Medical College. He has his Master's Degree from Iona University and received an Advanced Certification in Nonprofit Public Relations. He has a diverse background in healthcare, pharmaceutical, telehealth, tech, cosmetics, sports, and interior design public relations. From the Show What brand has made Thomas smile recently? Working in crisis PR, Thomas pointed us to Zara's recent PR challenges. Connect with Thomas on the OtterPR website and on LinkedIn. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Micky Ogando is the founder and principal of creative agency Bakery. Their unique product-led process, cultural expertise, and creative storytelling have helped brands including Nike, DeLorean Motors, Diageo, Kellogg's, Shiner Brewery, and Acadia Health. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Micky Ogando Micky Ogando is the founder and principal of BAKERY, a Creative and Culture agency headquartered in Austin, TX. While Micky has experience working in both award-winning agency networks and boutique shops in his native Dominican Republic and the USA, he considers himself an industry outsider. Right before founding Bakery in 2010, he worked in the wildly creative video game industry, most recently at Bioware/EA Games where his team launched Star Wars: The Old Republic and Mass Effect franchise titles. Bakery’s unique product-led process, cultural expertise, and creative storytelling have helped it establish a growing roster of clients that includes Nike, DeLorean Motors, Diageo, Kellogg's, Shiner Brewery, and Acadia Health. From the Show What brand has made Micky smile recently? "I love this indie agency resurgence," Micky began before pointing us to recent smiles from agencies like Highdive and Orchard with their Ocean Spray work. Connect with Micky on the Bakery website and follow him on Instagram. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jenny Stiven is the founder of Clio Consulting, working as a geek influencer with properties like Star Wars, James Bond, Predator, Aliens, and more. She helps clients #spendthetime with fan communities through social and digital media and (gasp!) in-person events. We geeked out on all of this and more (Star Trek!) this week on the On Brand podcast. About Jenny Stiven Jenny Stiven created Clio Consulting in 2004 to act as an “inside” digital marketing resource for entertainment companies. She has worked with numerous digital agencies in executive roles producing groundbreaking and award-winning campaigns for Fortune 500 entertainment & gaming clients. A long relationship with 20th Century Fox and MGM enabled her to become a geek influencer in the digital and social space – with the Star Wars properties, the James Bond franchise, Predator franchise, Stargate franchise, Aliens and more. She works with both the IP owners and creators to help them communicate, interact, and build a community that lasts. Jenny's mission is to ensure that geek franchises their fandoms have a strong digital foundation for a lifelong relationship. #spendthetime From the Show What brand has made Jenny smile recently? “I have two!” Jenny joked sharing powerful AI smiles from Orange France for their soccer ad and Nicki Minaj's Gag City project. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn and Instagram (she answers all of her DMs!). As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matt Johnson is the Founder and Chief Strategy Officer at award-winning creative shop HAYMAKER. Throughout his career, Matt has helped build iconic brand such as adidas, The Truth Initiative, Powerade, King's Hawaiian, 23andMe, MillerCoors, ESPN, Instagram, and Microsoft. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Matt Johnson Throughout his career, Matt Johnson has helped build iconic brands for big names like adidas, The Truth Initiative, Powerade, King's Hawaiian, 23andMe, MillerCoors, ESPN, Instagram, and Microsoft. Currently serving as Co-Founder and Chief Strategy Officer of creative agency HAYMAKER, Matt’s thought leadership and expertise have consistently helped his partners win and his strategic insight helped the agency win two Ad Age Small Agency of the Year Awards (2020, 2022), The Truth Initiative win for The Most Effective Brand in North America, and adidas to be named Ad Age’s A-List Marketer of the Year. When Matt isn't making memorial ad campaigns like the most recent Super Bowl spot for Pluto TV, Matt also lends his voice as a voice actor for over 20 years, voicing countless commercials and starring in two critically acclaimed HBO animated series, Ten Year Old Tom and The Life and Times of Tim. From the Show What brand has made Matt smile recently? “I don't want to go too hard at YETI,” Matt joked while also mentioning his love of the recent smile-worthy Super Bowl work for Reece's. Matt's no stranger to Super Bowl ads. Check out HAYMAKER's most recent work for Pluto TV from this year's big game. Connect with Matt on LinkedIn and check out HAYMAKER's work on their website. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the 500th episode of the On Brand podcast, I talk to audio research veteran Tom Webster. He shared his state of the podcasting industry, audience research insights, and the various touchpoints in the podcast brand experience. He even told a story about Tom Jones! Don't miss this very special episode of Blossom. Er, I mean — a very special episode of On Brand. And, thank YOU for listening. About Tom Webster Tom Webster is a partner at Sounds Profitable, the leading voice of significance for the digital audio industry, devoted to growing the podcast sector through audio insights, education, and connections. As a 25-year audio research veteran, he is a trusted advisor to the biggest companies in audio and has dedicated his career to the advancement of podcasting for networks and individuals alike. Tom has been a co-author and driver behind some of audio’s most influential studies, including the Infinite Dial® series, Share of Ear®, and The Podcast Landscape. Additionally, he has led hundreds of audience research projects on six continents, for some of the most listened-to podcasts and syndicated radio shows in the world, from Howard Stern to All Things Considered. He's done a card trick for Paula Abdul, shared a martini with Tom Jones, and sold vinyl to Christopher Walken. With Tom’s partnership at its helm, Sounds Profitable is dedicated to setting the course for the future of the audio industry. From the Show What audience research questions should you be asking? Is it the same audience or are they changing? Where are they today? Where does your show fit into their life? Why do they listen to your show? How you can learn more about your listeners. Here's a helpful article Tom wrote at Sounds Profitable on learning more about your listeners. Speaking of listeners ... Listener shoutout! I referenced On Brand listener Mark Gamis. Thanks for listening, Mark! What brand has made Tom smile recently? “I’m going to share a local favorite — Ministry of Supply.” Tom loves their wrinkle-free stage-ready clothes and the entire brand experience. Connect with Tom on LinkedIn and the Sounds Profitable website.   As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kate Rush Sheehy is Senior Vice President, Strategy & Insights at GSD&M, an Austin-based agency supporting brands like CapitalOne, Pizza Hut, Southwest Airlines, and Universal. Kate's work helps lead clients in new exciting new directions anchored by strategic insights. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Kate Rush Sheehy Kate Rush Sheehy leads the strategy department at GSD&M, a group of thinkers, makers, and “great question!”-askers that includes brand strategy, comms strategy, and research. She is a passionate builder of ideas and always looks at an opportunity from every conceivable angle to help push the agency’s thinking into fresh new territories. Kate joined GSD&M from Expedia Group where she led global brand strategy and advertising for Vrbo, highlights which include launching the brand in 17 countries and building a creative strategy that justified profitably growing the brand’s media investment by 10x. Prior to that, she opened the Austin office of R/GA where she spent most of her time making Crocs cool again and finding the perfect positioning for a range of Frito-Lay’s brands. From the Show What brand has made Kate smile recently? Kate shared her love of two recent campaigns. First, she loved the recent “DunKings” Super Bowl ad from Dunkin, continuing their Ben and Jen story. She also smiles at the recent GSD&M work for CapitolOne featuring John Travolta reprising his famous Saturday Night Fever strut.  Connect with Kate on the GSD&M website or LinkedIn. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Harms is Chief Growth Officer at youth culture agency Archrival. Through his work with Adidas, Spotify, Red Bull, and YETI, he helps brands connect today's Gen Z and Gen Alpha consumers. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Ben Harms Ben Harms, Chief Growth Officer, at youth culture agency, Archrival. Ben speaks to how brands can connect with today's Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences through brand community building, inclusive of influencer/creator marketing. Ben has worked with brands like Adidas, Spotify, Red Bull, Reebok, Hollister, Tommy Hilfiger, Outdoor Voices, and YETI, to strategize and connect with their younger audiences. From the Show Check out Archrival's latest insights on generational brand building which Ben discussed during the show. What brand has made Ben smile recently? Ben shared two very on-brand smile-worthy brands — fashion brand Aimé Leon Dore and e.l.f. Cosmetics. Connect with Ben on the Archrival website or LinkedIn. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tina Lin is the Director of Product Marketing and Brand at Quicken. This week on the On Brand podcast she walked us through the process of revamping this iconic 40-year-old brand while preserving its history and legacy. Anyone thinking about a rebrand won't want to miss this episode! About Tina Lin Tina Lin has spent her career building, marketing, and operating B2C, B2B, and B2B2C products and services. With over 25 years of experience, she has built and launched new businesses across many industries, including sports, online gaming, small business finance, and Internet advertising. As Director of Product Marketing and Brand at Quicken, Tina led the revamp of the 40-year-old iconic Quicken brand, with a new logo, visual identity, and website, signaling its vision for the future. Tina started her career as an investment banker at Morgan Stanley and CS First Boston. She holds an MBA from Stanford Business School and a BS/BA from the Wharton School/College of Arts & Sciences of the University of Pennsylvania From the Show This is Quicken at 40. Check out this article detailing the rebrand Tina shared with us during the show. What brand has made Tina smile recently? Tina shared two of my personal faves — Nike and Canva! Connect with Tina on the Quicken website or LinkedIn. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mia Blume is a creative leadership coach with experience at Pinterest, Square, and IDEO. In 2016, she started Design Dept. to help creative leaders transform how they work. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Mia Blume Mia Blume is San Francisco-based creative leadership coach. A former design leader at Pinterest, Square, and IDEO, Mia started Design Dept. in 2016 to help transform the way creative leaders work. Through individual coaching, workshops, and customized workplace learning and development, Design Dept.’s guided experiences foster creative leadership. Mia believes that when a designer’s authentic leadership style is unlocked, it impacts not only individuals and teams, but the products, services, and organizations that shape our world. From the Show What brand has made Mia smile recently? “This might not be as recent as you were looking for but do remember the Loom Candle?” Mia shared how the video platform sent out candles for users to commemorate the meetings they no longer had to have. Connect with Mia on her website and LinkedIn. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Miri Rodriguez literally wrote the book on brand storytelling. An award-winning, globally recognized storyteller and Senior Storyteller for Future of Work at Microsoft, Miri is a creative journalist, content strategist, renowned keynote speaker, and international thought leader helping brands tell their stories. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Miri Rodriguez Miri Rodriguez, based in Pompano Beach, Florida, is an award-winning, globally recognized storyteller and Senior Storyteller for Future of Work at Microsoft. She is a creative journalist, content strategist, renowned keynote speaker, and international thought leader in brand storytelling, personal branding, and youth entrepreneurship. She has earned several awards in digital marketing and customer experience and is ranked as a top in-demand speaker at leading industry conferences globally. Her previous clients include Adobe, Discover, Walmart, and McKesson. Links from the Show Here’s the updated, second edition of Miri's book Brand Storytelling: Put Customers at the Heart of Your Brand Story. A memorable quote from Miri: “Your first storytellers are your employees.” That's why we need to give them tools like Microsoft's done with their brand central station. Miri also shared how important Satya Nadella's book Hit Refresh has been in sharing the brand story. Fun fact: Nadella created a special edition for employees. What brand has made Miri smile recently? Disney! Miri shared — you guessed it — a story on how Disney once again delivered on the magical experiences that they promise. Connect with Miri on her website and on LinkedIn. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ben Guttmann is the author of the new book Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win — and How to Design Them. Ben is on a mission to get leaders to more effectively connect through clear and concise messages. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Ben Guttmann Ben Guttmann is a marketing and communications expert and author of Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win — and How to Design Them. He’s an experienced marketing executive and educator on a mission to get leaders to more effectively connect by simplifying their message. Ben is former co-founder and managing partner at Digital Natives Group, an award-winning agency that worked with the NFL, I Love NY, Comcast NBCUniversal, Hachette Book Group, The Nature Conservancy, and other major clients. Currently, Ben teaches digital marketing at Baruch College in New York City and consults with a range of thought leaders, venture-backed startups, and other brands. Links from the Show Here’s Ben’s new book Simply Put: Why Clear Messages Win — and How to Design Them. Connect with Ben on LinkedIn and check out his website BenGuttmann.com. What brand has made Jamie smile recently? Ben doesn’t drink coffee so he pointed us to Bellocq luxury tea. Treat yourself! As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Allen Adamson is the author of the new book Seeing the How: Achieving Market Advantage by Transforming the Stuff We Do, Not the Stuff We Buy. He’s the author of several other books on all things branding and the co-founder and managing partner of Metaforce. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Allen Adamson Allen Adamson is a noted industry expert in all disciplines of branding. He has worked with a broad spectrum of consumer and corporate businesses in industries ranging from packaged goods and technology to health care and financial services, to hospitality and entertainment. Allen’s newest book is Seeing the How: Achieving Market Advantage by Transforming the Stuff We Do, Not the Stuff We Buy. His previous books, BrandSimple, BrandDigital, The Edge, and Shift Ahead, are used as textbooks in higher education business programs across the country. Allen is Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Metaforce, an elite marketing collective of the industry's top talent. Links from the Show Allen’s newest book is Seeing the How: Achieving Market Advantage by Transforming the Stuff We Do, Not the Stuff We Buy. Connect with Allen on the Metaforce website or AllenAdamson.com. Want to listen to more of Allen On Brand? Check out his first appearance on the show back in 2019. What brand has made Allen smile recently? Allen gave us a good reminder of IKEA — and very on-brand given our conversation! As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lydia Michael is an entrepreneur, speaker, brand strategist, and author of “Brand Love." As I said during our conversation, Lydia spends a lot of time defining the undefinable — from brand love to multicultural marketing to personal branding.  We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Lydia Michael Lydia Michael is an entrepreneur, speaker, brand strategist, and author of “Brand Love." She works with companies and organizations to develop brands and marketing strategies. Lydia is the founder and owner of Blended Collective, a multicultural marketing and brand consultancy. Her experience includes working with brands like Deloitte and L’Oréal in Germany. Lydia’s work has been recognized with several diversity and marketing-centered awards. She leads workshops and webinars, and speaks to audiences about topics such as multicultural marketing, brand love, and personal branding. Links from the Show What brand has made Lydia smile recently? Lydia shared Huda Beauty, a brand she referenced in her book Brand Love. “Huda does a great job of humanizing the brand.” Connect with Lydia on LinkedIn and visit lydiamichael.com and blendedcollective.com. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we have a special holiday episode of the On Brand podcast with the “Naughty and Nice Brands of 2023.” This seasonally appropriate snapshot of brand behavior was developed by the smart folks at Brand Federation. The consultancy’s Chief Growth Officer Matt Williams joined me to discuss which brands have been naughty and nice this year. Enjoy This Episode Now Download Episode Listen on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify About Matt Williams Matt Williams is chief growth officer for Brand Federation, a brand strategy consultancy in Richmond, Va. Prior to joining Brand Federation in 2019, Williams was CEO of the Martin Agency, one of the world’s most recognized advertising agencies, where he managed strategy development for world-class brands like GEICO, OREO, UPS, Discover Financial, Walmart, and more. Williams also is Clinical Professor in the marketing department at the Mason School of Business at William & Mary. He teaches in the MBA program and is the developer and Faculty Director of the school’s Online Masters in Marketing.   Naughty List for Brands 2023 WeWork — This coworking space used branding as a cover for a crappy business. Bud Light — This beer brand’s withdrawal of supporting Dylan Mulvaney is a complete fold on their conviction: a beverage "for every person, for every occasion." Zoom — This video conferencing service, synonymous with making 21st-century knowledge work from anywhere possible, called employees back to the office. Silicon Valley Bank — This banking brand’s collapse was rooted in miscommunication.   Nice List for Brands 2023 Garth Brooks — This country singer is exemplifying conviction with his new bar in Nashville with one simple rule. Airbnb — This short-term rental brand responded quickly to the wildfires in Maui. Mattel — This toy company released a movie based off an iconic doll brand, and made the brand even more iconic by empowering women. Delta Air Lines — An airline met some unintended brand turbulence but teaches an important lesson for brands — knowing when to admit mistakes.   Brands that Santa is Watching in 2024 Open AI — This emerging tech brand is de-mystifying and popularizing generative artificial intelligence, but recent drama with their board and CEO puts their future at stake. Apple — This technology company has always been known for its innovative hardware, but releases this year are a far cry away from what the brand has been known for. Beyond Inc. — This newly formed parent brand for home goods businesses has gone through it all – bankruptcy, acquisition, and a new brand architecture. Barnes & Noble — A national book retail chain unveiled a new brand plan that doesn’t appear to have any consistency. Want more naughty and nice? Check out Brand Federation’s YouTube video on the Naughty and Nice Brands of 2023.  Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Amanda Proscia, co-founder of Lightspeed Public Relations and Marketing, is the author of PR Confidential, available now. Lightspeed is a New York City-based agency focused on promoting innovation in areas like healthcare, financial services, and consumer electronics. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Amanda Proscia Amanda Proscia is a master corporate storyteller with experience in-house at American Express. Amanda is the co-founder of Lightspeed Public Relations and Marketing, a New York City-based agency focused on promoting innovation in areas like healthcare, financial services, and consumer electronics. She's also the author of the bestselling new book, PR Confidential.  Links from the Show On Brand Soundbite. "In addition to the millions of dollars wasted on ads that are not digitally optimized, brands are missing other marketing opportunities for their holiday promotions,"  says Amanda Proscia. "Each holiday season, ads are repeated from previous years without any updating to their message or target audience. Not only does this result in ads that under-perform, but it also misses out on gaining the value of refreshed storytelling." What brand has made Amanda smile recently? “Oreo — and not just because I love their cookies.” Amanda shared that her smile came from their recent cookie ad featuring a diverse Santa Claus. Connect with Amanda on LinkedIn and the Lightspeed PR website. As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sandy Skees is EVP, Global Purpose and Impact Lead at Porter Novelli and author of the book Purposeful Brands. While it seems like purposeful branding and marketing is everywhere these days, that doesn't diminish the importance and responsibility of this work. And it doesn't make the work any easier. We discussed all of this and more this week on the On Brand podcast. About Sandy Skees Sandy Skees is EVP, Global Purpose and Impact Lead at Porter Novelli, a leading communications consultancy, part of the Omnicom Group. With over three decades of expertise in management consulting and strategic communications, Sandy has worked with clients including Visa, Abercrombie & Fitch, eBay, and Panasonic, among many others. Recognized as PRWeek's Woman of Distinction 2023 and Most Purposeful Agency Pro 2021, Sandy holds a Board Director position at Sustainable Brands and is an advisor to The Diversity Center. Author of Purposeful Brands, she is an experienced speaker on branding, messaging, and sustainability topics. She lives with her wife in Santa Cruz, California. Links from the Show Check out Sandy's book, Purposeful Brands — all about helping brands discover, develop, and implement their purpose and impact. Connect with Sandy on her website and LinkedIn. What brand has made Sandy smile recently? “Easy — Spotify, for their Year in Review,” Sandy shared that she loves learning about herself and others from this one-of-a-kind brand touch point. Be sure to check out my interview with Spotify’s Jay Norman where we discussed the Year in Review.   As We Wrap … Listen and subscribe at  Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon/Audible, Google Play, Stitcher, TuneIn, iHeart, YouTube, and RSS. Rate and review the show—If you like what you’re hearing, be sure to head over to Apple Podcasts and click the 5-star button to rate the show. And, if you have a few extra seconds, write a couple of sentences and submit a review to help others find the show. Did you hear something you liked on this episode or another? Do you have a question you’d like our guests to answer? Let me know on Twitter using the hashtag #OnBrandPodcast and you may just hear your thoughts here on the show. On Brand is a part of the Marketing Podcast Network. Until next week, I’ll see you on the Internet! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices