Strategy for Breakfast

We are joined by Tom Stone and Pamela Uddin to discuss their own journey as managing partners of RE:ACT Marketing, but also how they navigate the challenges, success and their future both at work and at home (they are also married). We will unpick those key moments that have brought them here, but also the unique dynamics that they and their team need to adapt to and weave into the culture of the organization.  For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion Points: Why self-awareness within leadership creates a culture of ‘high challenge, low threat’ for teams Growing with you teams, knowing when to succession plan and when to reinvest Normalizing conversations both at work and at home within a unique dynamic  Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here. Get in touch: Connect with Pamela Uddin and Tom Stone here · Connect with David McGrath here Or email podcast@gdsgroup.com 

Listen in on any business conversation today, and you can pretty much bet that “AI” comes up within five minutes. Seriously. Set your timer! With all the bot-talk, it’s refreshing to hear from an expert voice who’s convinced the immense power of generative artificial intelligence is not overshadowing humankind’s unique cognitive capabilities. Our guest explains why we don’t have to be AI-afraid or AI-obsessed, but rather how to become AI enabled! For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion Points: The difference between AI-afraid, AI-obsessed, and AI-enabled.How do we encourage individuals and organizations to embrace AI without losing the human spark?How GenAI is ushering in a period of enhanced creativity. Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here. Get in touch: Connect with Mohan NairConnect with Kelley IueleOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com

It seems like everyone—in the consumer and corporate world—is pushing out AI models and products these days. The question is: what has this done to our cybersecurity? Does AI just make the bad guys faster, or is it actually making us more secure? Our guest today is a “red team” hacker (a hacker for good) and expert in cybersecurity. He talks us through what’s out there trying to wreak havoc, and what works best to keep our data safe. For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion Points: Can AI actually help make us more secure? What are the biggest risks you see from AI?We still need to empower people to keep corporate and personal data safe. How do we do that today? Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here. Get in touch: Connect with Gordon LongConnect with Kelley IueleOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com

Keeping employees motivated and engaged isn’t about bigger paychecks—it’s about deeper connections. Dominic Miserandino, CEO of Retail Tech Media Nexus, joins us to share why empathy, transparency, and really knowing your people are the real keys to retention and performance. From spotting early warning signs before they hit the data, to giving your team “permission to be imperfect,” Dom explains how leaders can create loyalty, trust, and motivation—even in tough times. For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion Points: Why money isn’t the top reason people stay—or leaveThe balance between empathy and accountability in high-pressure environmentsPractical ways to understand what truly drives your team Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here. Get in touch: Connect with Dominic MiserandinoConnect with Ben ThompsonOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com

The viral Coldplay kiss cam scandal threw the role of CPO, or Chief People Officer—and HR at large—into the spotlight. Our guest is an expert on organizational culture and talks us through why this moment captured so much attention. We also talk about the challenges HR and People leaders face today. For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion Points: What is a Chief People Officer, and what is expected of them?What's the true damage of this type of scandal?Kiss cam aside, what are the pressing challenges for HR leaders right now? Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here. Get in touch: Connect with Dr. Cornelia Shipley BearymanConnect with Kelley IueleOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com

Episode description  An in-depth discussion with Roberta Passerini, Global Marketing Transformation Leader, exploring strategies that can lead to cultural shifts, picking over the process and how to approach resistance and the practicalities in shifting mindsets.  For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! https://youtu.be/nSudntRe-yY Discussion points:  What components are required to create sustainable transformation: Collaboration, Transparency, Communication Knowledge of what is coming next, and over planning will support in recovering from setbacks Practical ways marketing leaders can overcome internal pushback and drive lasting change  Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here.  Get in touch:  · Connect with Roberta Passerini here · Connect with David McGrath here · Or email podcast@gdsgroup.com   

Episode Description Understanding when people do their best work—whether early in the morning or later in the day—can dramatically improve team efficiency and morale. NYT best-selling author Dan Pink discusses how leaders who take timing into account can better structure workflows, meetings, and collaborative sessions to match team members’ natural energy peaks. Measuring the impact of this approach helps ensure delivering results.  For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! https://youtu.be/JCVUshg-qEQ Discussion Points: Optimize work around peak productivity timesAdapt team structures to individual rhythmsMeasure impact and start with small shifts Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here.  Get in touch: Connect with Dan PinkConnect with Keesa SchreaneOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com 

Episode Description: There’s no denying it: AI and tech are changing HR. Where is AI helping, and what are the problems with everyone using AI to apply for roles? Our guest is walking us through the tools and strategies for people leaders to identify and develop the very best talent. We also hear why the resume is “dead!” Welcome to the latest episode of Strategy for Breakfast. Send us a note at podcast@gdsgroup.com. For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! https://youtu.be/JCVUshg-qEQ Discussion Points: Has AI made it harder for companies to hire the right people?How hiring criteria must evolve beyond keywords, and why the resume is “dead.”How can we better capitalize on our people’s skills to drive market share + profitability? Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here.  Get in touch: Connect with Natasha NuyttenConnect with Kelley IueleOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com

Episode Description What if culture wasn’t just an HR buzzword—but the engine behind real innovation, trust, and business growth? In this episode of Strategy for Breakfast, Amanda Brilhante sits down with Cindy Chastain, the Former SVP, Global Head of Customer Experience & Design at Mastercard, to unpack why culture is far more than a branding exercise. They explore why trust is non-negotiable, why even killing a product can be a cultural win, and how meaningful change often starts with small, intentional steps. For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! https://youtu.be/JCVUshg-qEQ Discussion Points: Why 82% of CEOs are prioritizing culture as a business strategy.How emotional resistance can block innovation and transformation.Why shared language is key to cross-functional collaboration. Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here.  Get in touch: Connect with Cindy Chastain here Connect with Amanda Brilhante here Or email podcast@gdsgroup.com 

Episode Description We’re joined by Kae Neskovic, Executive Creative Director at Superside, for a candid conversation on what it really takes to evolve your brand without losing its soul. In a world chasing “human” content, Kae breaks down why authenticity isn’t just clever copy or user-generated content—it’s about emotional range, creative bravery, and embracing transformation without fear.  For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion Points: When brand evolution efforts have been successful, and which aspects need to be avoided. Knowledge of how to build an accepting culture that allows for transformation but also doesn't feel creativity being threatened. The capabilities creative teams now need to develop to stay agile  Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here.  Get in touch:       Connect with Kae Neskovic here       Connect with David McGrath here       Or email podcast@gdsgroup.com 

Episode Description In this episode, we dive into the forces shaping global supply chains, from commodity headwinds and tailwinds to surprising economic substitutes like Brazilian oranges and alternatives to chocolate. Our guest, Francisco Martin-Rayo, unpacks how hedge funds capitalize on volatility and why fluctuating grocery prices can mean big business for investors. Plus, we explore AI’s growing role in agriculture and what upskilling looks like for supply chain and commodities professionals navigating today’s evolving market. For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion Points: Exploring supply chain trends, market volatility, and investment strategies to understand how commodities markets react to economic shifts and technological advancements.The importance of adaptability, strategic insight, and innovation in managing supply chain disruptions, identifying market opportunities, and integrating AI in agriculture.What’s the Outlook: The role of AI-driven efficiencies, shifting consumer demand, and financial strategies in shaping the future of supply chains and commodities markets. Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here.  Get in touch: Connect with Francisco Martin-RayoConnect with Keesa SchreaneOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com

Episode Description Does it feel like you've just wrapped your head around Generative AI, when you start hearing about Agentic AI everywhere? AI is evolving and it's high time we stop being intimidated by it! Our guest has been programming since he was 10 years old, so he's the perfect person to explain Agentic AI in digestible terms, and better still- how it will make work more enjoyable and productive. For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion Points: In simple terms, what is Agentic AI?What's the business value, and why should people want to embrace agents?What’s the risk of NOT evolving and growing in our work by embracing these tools? Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here.  Get in touch: Connect with Andy LinConnect with Kelley IueleOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com

Episode Description In today’s oversaturated media landscape, capturing audience attention is only half the battle—what brands really want is action. So how do you move beyond impressions and create lasting engagement? This week, we’re joined by Michele Fino, a seasoned Chief Storyteller with deep expertise in branded entertainment and content strategy. Michele shares how marketers can use the power of storytelling, smart distribution, and timing to transform passive viewers into loyal, active consumers. For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion points: · Why storytelling must go hand-in-hand with smart distribution to make an impact · The “rule of seven” and how to diversify touchpoints without overwhelming your audience · How seasonal behavior and platform dynamics influence engagement strategies Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here.  Get in touch: · Connect with Michele Fino ·  Connect with Amanda Brilhante · Or email podcast@gdsgroup.com

Episode description  Exploring how organizations build operational excellence and create a sustainable culture; that idea of embedding it into everyday life at an organization. We talk to Darren O’Connor, Director of Business Development, from Performance Solutions by Milliken about how continuous improvement and operational excellence can be found through collaboration and transparency. But the challenge remains that building this culture, so it outlives those who have implemented it requires the confidence of allowing a company to co-create with all the resources involved. Discussion points:  Culture creating and sustaining a co-collaborated cultureSupporting those who ‘show up’ and celebrating discretionary effortStrategies that can be effective in overcoming barriers to incremental change? How do you ‘get the message right’?  Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here.  Get in touch:  Connect  Darren O’Connor Connect with David McGrathOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com 

Episode description  Exploring how organizations build operational excellence and create a sustainable culture; that idea of embedding it into everyday life at an organization. We talk to Chris Poole, Director of Strategic Client Development, from Performance Solutions by Milliken about how continuous improvement and operational excellence can be found through collaboration and transparency. But the challenge remains that building this culture, so it outlives those who have implemented it requires the confidence of allowing a company to co-create with all the resources involved. Discussion points:  Culture creating and sustaining a co-collaborated cultureSupporting those who ‘show up’ and celebrating discretionary effortStrategies that can be effective in overcoming barriers to incremental change? How do you ‘get the message right’?  Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here.  Get in touch:  Connect Chris PooleConnect with David McGrathOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com 

Episode description How can organizations ensure every consumer has what they need to thrive in the digital world, no matter who they are? This week, we’re joined by Jack Cunningham, the Director of Product Management at Livefront. Jack will explain why companies need to embrace accessibility, and how AI plays a role in improving the accessibility of technology.  Discussion points: ·      Ensuring companies embrace accessibility by understanding the need and importance of making sure everyone, regardless of physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments, can fully participate in the digital world ·      Suggestions leaders can take to make meaningful progress in the area of accessibility ·      Understanding how AI improves accessibility of technology; Understanding the challenges of AI and accessibility  Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here. Get in touch: ·      Connect with Jack Cunningham ·      Connect with Rebecca Solomon ·      Or email podcast@gdsgroup.com

Sustainability, wellness, inclusion. The corporate values important to your business can also help you win market share. If you tell the story in the right way. Our guest is a sustainable food expert, and drawing hilarious notes from her book, "You Can't Market Manure at Lunchtime,” shares what you CAN talk about instead, and how to make it matter. Welcome to the latest episode of Strategy for Breakfast! Send us a note at podcast@gdsgroup.com Discussion Points: How corporate social responsibility can win hearts + market shareKey values for 2025, including efforts to drive positive, sustainable changes in our food systemWhat’s the outlook in a climate where DEI and ESG initiatives are so politicized? Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here. Connect with Maisie GanzlerConnect with Kelley IueleOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com

Episode Description: AI is evolving faster than ever, and DeepSeek just sent shockwaves through the industry. In this episode of Strategy for Breakfast, Amanda Brilhante, and Strategic Engagement Advisor with the FBI Rob Petrosino unpack why this new AI model out of China is making headlines—and what it means for the future of AI dominance. Is this a true breakthrough in AI efficiency, or does it come with hidden risks that users and organizations need to consider? Discussion points: The hidden ways employees are using AI tools without oversight and the security risks companies can’t ignore -- including what is shadow AI?From national security concerns to hidden terms of service, is DeepSeek a breakthrough or a massive risk to users worldwide?How can businesses balance innovation with security, the role of governance, preventing AI "model drift," and why human oversight is still critical. Get in touch Connect with Rob PetrosinoConnect with Amanda BrilhanteOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com Resources: GDS Group Summits & Events – EventsJoin our community of executives leading the way in business and digital transformation! Get in touch here: The Leading Provider of Executive Events & Summits | GDS Group

Episode Description: Who is truly responsible for AI within your organization? Are they equipped to navigate its ethical challenges while maximizing its value? In this episode of Strategy for Breakfast, host David McGrath sits down with HP Dalen to explore the complexities of AI ownership in business. From aligning AI initiatives with core company values to ensuring leadership-level AI literacy, they discuss why strategic oversight is critical for success. Discussion points: The challenges of ‘AI ownership’ within a businessThe need to be aware of not just the value it brings, but the ethical considerationsAI literacy from the top down Get in touch Connect with Hans-Peter DaleConnect with David McGrathOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com Resources: GDS Group Summits & Events – EventsJoin our community of executives leading the way in business and digital transformation! Get in touch here: The Leading Provider of Executive Events & Summits | GDS Group

Episode Description: Is AI going to be a large part of state government and public services? In this episode of Strategy for Breakfast, Amanda Brilhante speaks with Vincent Cabansag, COO of Clockwork and Vice Chair of Minnesota’s Technology Advisory Council, to explore how AI is improving public safety, streamlining services, and enhancing citizen experiences. From AI-powered traffic monitoring to multilingual chatbots breaking language barriers, technology is making government more efficient, accessible, and proactive. Discussion points: How government agencies balance the need for technological advancement with public trust, privacy concerns, and regulatory constraints while adopting AIAI is enhancing public safety and making government services more accessible to diverse communitiesPrivate sector expertise can help state governments accelerate digital transformation Get in touch Connect with Vince CabansagConnect with Amanda BrilhanteOr email podcast@gdsgroup.com Resources: GDS Group Summits & Events – EventsJoin our community of executives leading the way in business and digital transformation! Get in touch here: The Leading Provider of Executive Events & Summits | GDS Group