EP 171: Build, Buy Or Partner? How Smart Brands Create New Business Models

In this episode, Tessa Burg talks with Stephen Trammell, Vice President of New Business Models at Nestlé Purina North America, about what it really takes to build stronger customer relationships in a digital world. 

Instead of focusing on the point of sale, Stephen explains how brands can create value across the full pet ownership journey by understanding real needs, solving real pain points and showing up in ways that feel natural and helpful. 

The conversation dives into how teams can decide when to build, buy or partner, what makes a pilot worth scaling and why loyalty is a better goal than short-term conversions. This is the conversation for marketers and business leaders who want to think bigger about growth, innovation and the customer experience. 

Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.

About Stephen Trammell:

Stephen Trammell is an experienced marketing leader who bridges traditional marketing with digital innovation.  His career in consumer products spans over two decades.  He currently serves as Vice President of New Business Models at Nestlé Purina North America, leading Purina’s portfolio of digital-first brands.  He has worked in marketing research, led billion-dollar brands like Fancy Feast and is currently pioneering digital platforms and apps including myPurina, Petfinder and Petivity’s portfolio of IoT-connected pet care devices and health kits.  Stephen can be reached on LinkedIn.

About Tessa Burg:

Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at [email protected].