Breaking Through The Mayhem

In this episode of Breaking Through the Mayhem, host Ben Lambert sits down with Steve Wolf, Head of Integrated Media at Scale Marketing, to trace his two-decade journey across the media industry—from his first break at MediaVest to leading integrated planning at an independent agency. Steve shares how pivotal career moments shaped him: from cutting his teeth on Continental Airlines and Capital One, to learning hard lessons under tough mentors at GroupM, to managing Super Bowl negotiations for AB InBev, and later embracing entrepreneurial risk at Canvas and Horizon. Throughout, he reflects on how failure, risk-taking, and mentorship played defining roles in building his leadership style. The conversation dives deep into: Failure as fuel: Why the hardest lessons and biggest setbacks often teach more than success. Breaking down silos: How he bridges traditional and digital media thinking to reflect how consumers actually experience content. CTV’s rise: Why connected TV offers the best of both linear reach and digital targeting, and how brands can use it effectively. AI in media planning: Why AI is powerful for speed and efficiency, but real differentiation comes from human “taste” and perspective. Team and culture: Why collaboration, soft skills, and curiosity often matter more than being the “smartest person in the room.” Steve also shares personal reflections on his move from St. Louis to New York to Chicago, his love for sports and how it shapes his perspective on leadership and teamwork, and even his passion for Indiana Hoosiers football. This episode is a masterclass in blending career grit, evolving with the industry, and leading with both strategy and humanity.

What if the real power of data wasn’t in dashboards, but in shaping how brands grow and connect across the world? On this episode of Breaking Through the Mayhem, host Ben Lambert sits down with Zach Lain, Director of Global Data Partnerships at PepsiCo, to unpack how he’s helping one of the world’s biggest CPGs balance global consistency with local relevance. From rethinking CTV measurement to scaling data systems across 200+ markets, Zach shares lessons on leadership, culture, and why small wins drive lasting impact. They cover: The shift from click-throughs to outcome-based measurement How PepsiCo navigates brand priorities across markets Why speaking up with informed opinions matters The habits and mindset that fuel resilience, from swimming to solo travel A candid look at how one of the world’s biggest brands is rewriting the playbook for data partnerships and measurement.

What if building a media company was really about building a movement? On this episode of Breaking Through the Mayhem, host Alena DeSalvo sits down with Jason Schulweis, Chief Commercial Officer at The Female Quotient, to talk about scaling a mission-driven brand without losing its soul.From running HBO digital campaigns at 22, to helping Morning Brew grow revenue 20x, to leading FQ’s evolution from the Girls’ Lounge to a global media and events powerhouse, Jason shares how purpose, content, and community can fuel real impact. They cover: The evolution of FQ and its global growth Why organic social growth still works The role of men and allies in gender equality How brands can bridge B2B and B2C through shared values Lessons from partnerships with Ferragamo, Invisalign, and more Plus, Jason gets personal on fatherhood, preparing the world for his daughter, and why Cannes and SXSW top his list of FQ memories. Whether you’re a media leader, brand marketer, or just curious how mission-driven companies scale, this episode will leave you inspired.

The key to unlocking leadership? It might just be seeing your own potential differently. In this episode of Breaking Through the Mayhem, Adam Katz sits down with media leader Maureen Bosetti, Chief Investment Officer at IPG Mediabrands, for a candid conversation about resilience, reinvention, and riding the relentless waves of change in media. From her early days at GM Mediaworks to steering massive brand strategies at Publicis and now IPG, Maureen reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her leadership—and the personal evolution required to get there. She shares what it means to lead with transparency, coach with empathy, and the often-overlooked power of leaning into your strengths. They cover: Maureen’s career-defining moments and setbacks Shifting perception to unlock leadership opportunities Her views on AI’s impact on agency operations and client strategy The art of diagnosing client challenges in a complex, tech-fueled era Building a culture of confidence, honesty, and continuous learning And yes… her love of tennis (Go Djokovic!) and dream dinner with Oprah This episode is full of practical wisdom for anyone navigating a fast-moving industry, leading teams, or evolving their own voice in the chaos.

What if the biggest media trend is just a new label on the same old strategy? On this episode of Breaking Through the Mayhem, host Ben Lambert is joined by Liane Nadeau, Chief Investment Officer at Digitas North America, for a grounded and refreshingly honest look at how real innovation happens in media today. From local TV buys to leading investment across North America, Liane has seen every evolution and built a few herself. She shares how Digitas is bridging creative, strategy, and media to design brand experiences that actually connect, and why the real differentiator isn’t tools — it’s context, creativity, and the courage to try something new. They cover: Why curation isn’t a trend — it’s table stakes Digitas’ hybrid approach to AI  How AI is changing both media workflows and weeknight dinner What most brands still get wrong about contextual creative The underrated power of slowing down to think strategically Plus, Liane gets real on mom life, golf swings, and her dream gelato tour through Portugal. Whether you’re a media exec, creative lead, or just curious where AI meets ad strategy, this episode is for you.

The future of media leadership starts with a culture first playbook. In this episode of Breaking Through the Mayhem, Ben Lambert reconnects with his first ever boss, Michael Law, now CEO of Carat North America, for a full circle conversation on leadership, legacy, and the evolution of modern media. With candor, warmth, and a healthy dose of Boston sports analogies, Mike shares lessons from 25 years at Carat, where culture, curiosity, and coaching sit at the core of the agency’s DNA. They dive into: Why today’s media leaders need to think like comms planners and coaches How Carat’s culture first mindset drives innovation, growth, and retention What real leadership looks like in a time of industry volatility How to build consistent cultural impact—not just flash-in-the-pan moments Mike’s bow tie theory — that culture sits at the center of brand and business impact — echoes Sightly’s belief that showing up in culture drives better performance across the board. And his take on missed Wimbledon brand moments? A powerful reminder that speed, authenticity, and relevance matter more than ever. In a time of fragmentation, platform chaos, and pressure to prove ROI, this episode is a timely reminder: great media starts with people, purpose, and a plan built for what’s next.

What does it mean to build a creative career by being unapologetically you, while making space for others to do the same? Bernice Chao, Chief Creative Officer and co-founder of Asians in Advertising, joins Michele Ching for a conversation about authenticity, representation, and the power of culturally grounded storytelling.   From leading campaigns for brands like Google, Amazon, and Netflix to mentoring the next generation at LMU, Bernice shares how personal identity and professional excellence don’t just coexist—they fuel each other. She opens up about the moments that shaped her, the impact of her nonprofit work, and the creative frameworks that help brands connect more meaningfully.   Inside: The mission behind Asians in Advertising—and how it’s reshaping the industry How Bernice turned authenticity into her creative superpower Why culturally specific details matter for marketers trying to build real connection A strategic approach that starts with “why” and ends in emotional resonance What visibility really means—and why brands can’t afford to stay surface-level   If you care about purpose-driven work, inclusive creativity, and brand storytelling that actually resonates, this one’s for you.

What does it take to spend 27 years at one agency and still feel like you're just getting started? David Campanelli, President of Global Investment at Horizon Media, joins Adam Katz to unpack how the media world has evolved and how he’s stayed ahead of it every step of the way. They cover everything from his early days at Horizon to leading global investment strategy, and what he’s learned about staying grounded while thinking big. Here’s what’s inside: How David worked his way up and what’s changed (and what hasn’t) over nearly three decades Why consistency and connection matter more than ever in today’s hybrid world The value of learning through the “mundane” in the age of AI How Horizon is shaking things up with blu, their connected marketing platform This one’s about playing the long game, building real culture, and keeping your edge through it all. 👉 Hit play and find out why business still comes down to people, even in the age of algorithms.

What if performance marketing could do more than drive growth—what if it could drive equity? In this episode, Michele Ching sits down with Laura Lee, former performance lead at HBO Max and founder of LL Consulting, to talk about using advanced strategy and AI to open doors, not close them. From helping B2C and DTC startups grow with fractional leadership to championing inclusive representation, Laura shares her mission to uplift API and women founders with strategic expertise that was once reserved for big-budget brands.   You’ll hear insights on: Why performance marketing is equal parts art, science, and human instinct The pitfalls of over-automation and the importance of a test and learn mindset How real-time contextual targeting creates meaningful audience connections What it means to train AI on diverse voices and lead with self-advocacy The mission-driven businesses Laura supports and the courage behind them Together, Michele and Laura explore how their shared focus on authenticity, access, and innovation reflects a broader shift toward marketing that’s not just smart, but deeply human. Because the future of marketing isn’t just what we build. It’s who we build it for.

What do cowboy ethics, climate-conscious media, and the perfect chocolate chip cookie have in common? For John Osborn, it all comes back to purpose. In this episode, Sightly CEO Adam Katz sits down with John—Director at Ad Net Zero and longtime industry force—for a no-BS conversation about sustainability, values-driven leadership, and why the future of advertising depends on doing the right thing and doing it well. Together, Adam and John unpack: 💥 The “cowboy ethic” that fuels stronger partnerships 📊 Why carbon measurement is key to smarter media planning ⚖️ How to balance speed with scalable, lasting impact 👥 Why employees—not execs—are redefining brand values from the inside out 🍪 And yes, the secret to the perfect chocolate chip cookie (crispy edges, gooey middle) They also dig into Sightly’s role in the movement, the rise of real-time value expression, and a global sustainability framework that could unite the industry around measurable change. Whether you’re deep in ESG strategy or just getting started, this episode makes one thing clear: purpose and performance can go hand in hand.

From airline data to agency boardrooms and long swims to leadership wins, Amy Lanzi’s story proves that the best career journeys don’t follow a straight line. Sightly CEO Adam Katz sits down with Amy Lanzi, CEO of Digitas North America. Amy shares her unique path from yield management analyst at American Airlines to the top of the agency world, revealing how a foundation in data, customer experience, and relentless self-improvement propelled her career. She opens up about lessons learned from swimming long-distance, her earliest mentors (including her remarkable siblings), and the mindset that’s shaped her leadership style—equal parts grit, compassion, and a little spark. The conversation dives into: How brands can move from transactional marketing to building lifelong relationships The overlooked data that could transform brand strategy Why the best agencies humanize with intelligence—and what that really means The realities of being a working parent and award-winning executive From CEO challenges to personal mantras, this episode brings authenticity, energy, and wisdom in equal measure. Listen now.

What happens when media, mentorship, and mission collide? Cara Lewis isn’t just one of the most powerful voices in media investment. She’s a survivor, a culture-builder, and a mentor redefining what it means to lead with heart. In this episode, she joins Adam Katz for a deeply human and refreshingly real conversation about navigating change, scaling impact, and finding purpose inside the mayhem. Cara shares her 15-year rise at dentsu, her early obsession with TV (shoutout to The Bold and the Beautiful sets), and how a life-altering breast cancer diagnosis shaped her approach to leadership, empathy, and legacy. Inside: 🎯 Why leading with empathy is Cara’s true superpower 🚀 Building culture in hybrid work and making it stick 💡 The origin story of Media Ladies Conquering Cancer and the power of peer-to-peer survivorship 👗 Fashion, sewing, karaoke, and other unexpected truths about one of media’s top execs 🔥 Why embracing change might be the most underrated mindset in media today If you’re leading a team, building a brand, or just looking for clarity in the chaos, this one’s for you. Listen now.

What links the fervor of Montreal Canadiens fans, AI-charged brand strategies, and 40-year-old teen moms? It’s community over stats, says Digitas CSO and Ad Age 40 Under 40 luminary Ali Amarsy. In a vibrant, in-person chat with Sightly’s Ben Lambert, Ali shares his journey from Montreal to Dubai, revealing how his global roots shape his visionary approach to brand building. This conversation blends the intensity of hockey rivalries, the magic of AI-driven creativity, and the art of earning trust within tight-knit communities. Ali explains why psychographics are the future, how Digitas leverages AI for precision and flair, and what it takes to transform a solid idea into a cultural phenomenon. He also opens up about his excitement—and nerves—as he prepares to become a #GirlDad, with plans to raise his daughter as a loyal Canadiens fan (sorry, Bruins fans!).Here’s what you’ll discover: Why community connection outshines demographic targeting How AI boosts strategy with accuracy, efficiency, and sparkle The secret to seeding trends and hitting cultural sweet spots Ali’s warm and witty take on fatherhood and hockey devotion Jump into this dynamic episode of Breaking Through the Mayhem to learn how brands can rise above the noise by speaking their audience’s language. It’s a blend of strategy, culture, and genuine connection delivered with humor and heart.

What happens when you stop trying to fit in and start leading from who you truly are?   In this episode of Breaking Through the Mayhem, Nancy Benter, Enablement & Strategy Partner at Starbucks, shares what it really means to lead with authenticity in today’s workplace.   With over 14 years of experience driving innovation across tech and retail, Nancy unpacks how staying true to her values has shaped her career, why diversity must be a business imperative, and how building trust through transparency creates real organizational impact. She also reflects on her personal journey from assimilation to empowerment and how honoring her Chinese American identity has helped her lead more authentically and inclusively at scale.   What you’ll hear:  ✨ The turning point where Nancy chose authenticity—and didn’t look back 💬 The three questions she uses to check in with herself as a leader 🌱 Why diversity isn't fluff—it’s fundamental to business ☕️ How coffee tastings at Starbucks turned into moments of cultural connection ⚖️Why clarity on your core values makes leadership (and life) a lot less overwhelming   Nancy’s powerful reflections on human connection, integrity, and courageous leadership will challenge you to bring more of yourself to your work and help others do the same. 

Wake up, media buyers—irrelevance is stalking you! In this episode, dive into the mind of a Hall of Fame strategist who’s mastered staying ahead in a chaotic industry. Discover why change sucks but irrelevance kills, how to evolve without losing your roots, the power of curiosity in an AI-driven world, and what it takes to stay indispensable in your career. Packed with insights from a 37-year veteran turned self-employed visionary, this conversation will jolt enterprise advertising pros into action. Tune in to Breaking Through the Mayhem with host Adam Katz and guest Rishad Tobaccowala for a no-filter take on thriving amid disruption. To learn more about Rishad, visit rishadtobaccowala.com. You can also find Rishad's book, Rethinking Work, here on BulkBooks or on Amazon, along with his other books.

The best leaders don’t just set strategy, they build cultures that can execute it. Nicole Estebanell, US CEO of Mediahub, joins Adam Katz to talk about balancing speed with strategy, the real impact of AI on creativity, and why leadership is more about influence than authority.  From navigating global markets to shaping high-performing teams, Nicole shares what it takes to stay ahead in an industry that moves faster than ever. She breaks down the fine line between innovation and chaos, why mentorship is an overlooked superpower, and how great teams win—not by working harder, but by working smarter together.   Inside:  🏀The leadership philosophy that puts teamwork above individual stardom 🤖 AI’s real role in media—beyond the hype and automation 💡The power of mentorship—and how one conversation changed her career trajectory  🌎How working abroad (and a big leap to London) gave her an edge in global strategy    Nicole’s take on leadership, culture, and innovation will challenge the way you think about building and leading great teams. Listen now!  

What happens when you go from leading hundreds to launching from scratch—and decide to do it all in public? Jeremy Bloom, founder of OhHello and Co-Founder of Marketecture Media, joins Adam Katz for a no-holds-barred conversation on reinvention, resilience, and the future of adtech. From viral dance intros to bootstrapping an AI-driven mentorship platform, Bloom shares how authenticity, grit, and a little bit of chaos have shaped his journey. He dives into Marketecture Live, the must-attend adtech conference built for real talk, not fluff, and why he believes mentorship is the industry’s greatest untapped advantage. Plus, get a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s really like to merge media, community, and business—without losing your sanity (or your hoodie). Inside: The bold vision behind Marketecture Live and why it’s shaking up industry events AI, advertising, and the future of mentorship in an industry that never stops evolving Why Jeremy sees himself as the Phil Jackson of adtech, not the MVP From WWF theatrics to Ultimate Warrior nostalgia—because life’s too short for boring   If you love media, tech, and a good underdog story, hit play.

What does it take to survive a decade in the media game when the rules keep rewriting themselves? Lisa Cialfi, Horizon Media’s Digital VP, sits down with Ben Lambert to unpack her journey—from slinging digital buys in 2015 to steering teams through the streaming explosion and AI’s takeover of ad metrics. She’s seen viewability obsessions give way to attention wars, and she’s got the scars to prove it. Expect tales of mentorship that shaped her, a culture that kept her, and a no-BS take on mental health at work—plus a Super Bowl call so bold it might jinx the Bills. Inside: How media morphed from linear TV to algorithmic chaos. The mentorship magic behind her VP rise. Why mental health’s the industry’s quiet crisis—and how to fix it. A Bills fan’s 2025 prophecy you’ll want to bet on. This isn’t just shop talk—it’s a front-row seat to media’s madness, perfect for ad nerds, career climbers, and anyone who needs a reminder that mental health matters and taking a break is okay. Hit play.

In this episode of Breaking Through the Mayhem, host Michele Ching talks with Suzie Bao, a transformative marketing leader and diversity advocate, about her journey navigating cultural barriers as an Asian American woman and building a legacy of authenticity and impact. With over 20 years of experience leading strategic marketing campaigns for top brands, Suzie has built a career at the intersection of innovation, inclusion, and business success. Suzie shares how her “joy work”—mentoring, community building, and championing representation—has become central to her role at IW Group, where she leads groundbreaking multicultural campaigns that bridge brands and culture. Key highlights: The power of “joy work” in aligning purpose with career and driving meaningful impact. Overcoming barriers as an Asian American woman in leadership and paving the way for others. Using AI for good in award-winning campaigns, like McDonald’s “Sweet Treats,” which bridged generational language gaps through innovative technology while celebrating intergenerational family bonds. Leading cultural-forward campaigns that empower underrepresented voices. Suzie’s story is a powerful reminder that joy, authenticity, and perseverance can create lasting change for individuals and their communities.  

In this episode, Adam Katz sits down with Sam Bloom, Head of Partnerships at PMG, to explore his career journey built on resilience, humility, and reinvention. From navigating the rise and fall of Blockbuster during its battle with Netflix to building Camelot's digital capabilities from the ground up and guiding it through a successful acquisition by PMG, Sam reflects on the lessons learned through challenges and reinvention. Sam's story is one of adaptability and curiosity. He shares how early setbacks became opportunities for growth, how rolling up his sleeves and learning the ropes at Camelot prepared him for leadership, and how his passion for innovation drives PMG’s approach to technology and AI. Key highlights: Candid lessons from Blockbuster’s rise and fall and how they shaped his perspective. How humility and a willingness to learn allowed him to build and lead successful teams Balancing tradition and innovation to stay ahead in a fast-changing industry. The importance of loving the process, staying adaptable, and embracing the unfinished work. Sam’s grounded perspective, passion for the craft, and dedication to innovation make this a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration to navigate challenges and build something extraordinary.