#174: Story > Stunts: Building Campaigns Audiences Choose to Follow

SHOW NOTES:

In this episode, Matt Zaun sits down with Stewart Cohen, award-winning director/photographer and CEO of SC Pictures and Superstock, to unpack how brands can use video and imagery to stay on message in a chaotic, multi-channel world. From keeping large organizations aligned with the role of authenticity (and where it can backfire) to practical ways leaders can tell stories people actually want to binge, Stewart shares practical ways leaders can tell stories people actually want to binge.

In this episode, they cover:

✅ From TV spots to everywhere: how video evolved from 30-second ads to an always-on content engine across divisions

✅ Staying on brand at scale: why messages start focused, then get watered down, and how to keep guardrails in place

✅ Who owns the vision: the CMO’s real job (and why short tenures sabotage brand consistency)

✅ Authenticity that works: “strategic authenticity” vs. oversharing; telling the truth without losing professionalism

…and more.

BIOS:

Stewart Cohen is a director/photographer and founder of SC Pictures, creating brand films and campaigns for leading companies and agencies. He is also the owner of Superstock, a global licensing company with 29M+ photos, videos, illustrations, and fine art. Known for visually rich, human-centered storytelling, Stewart helps brands sustain message discipline while producing content audiences want to watch.

Matt Zaun is an award-winning speaker and strategic storytelling expert who helps leaders inspire action and drive results through the power of story. He’s the author of The StoryBank, a practical playbook for using narrative to build culture, boost sales, and strengthen marketing.