AI Won’t Save You. Strategy Will.

AI is transforming the way brands connect with consumers. But are companies actually leveraging it the right way? And what about marketing teams — are their operating models built for the future, or stuck in the past?

In this episode, Rebecca Messina, former Global CMO of Uber and marketing leader at Coca-Cola, unpacks what brands are getting wrong about AI, strategy, and team structure. She also reveals the top traits she looks for in marketing hires, and why adaptability and a relentless drive to learn are non-negotiable in today’s industry.

If you want to stay ahead in marketing, this conversation is a must-listen. Buckle up — Rebecca’s insights might just change the way you think about your entire marketing approach.

Key Moments:

00:00 Who is Marketing Expert, Rebecca Messina?
01:53 The Most Common Misconceptions in Marketing
03:48 Adapting Marketing Strategies to Different Environments
05:29 The Importance of Language in Marketing
16:08 Cross-Functional Collaboration
19:50 The Art of Risk-Taking
26:06 Your Operating Model is Costing You Talent
26:59 Global vs. Local Marketing Strategies
28:32 Innovating Your Operating Model
29:28 Hiring High-Performing Teams
33:12 Navigating AI in Marketing
39:16 Aligning Your Mission & Your Strategy
42:28 Lightning Round & Rebecca’s Top Resources
47:28 Why Flexibility is Wealth

Mission.org is a media studio producing content alongside world-class clients. Learn more at mission.org.

Marketing Myths and CMO Truths from a Coca-Cola & Uber Powerhouse