Uncensored CMO

Mark Ritson, a renowned marketing expert and columnist, joins the discussion in a lively pub setting to dive into the top 10 beer ads of all time. They explore the blend of nostalgia and humor in ads from iconic brands like Heineken and Stella Artois. Ritson shares insights on emotional storytelling's impact on consumer perception while drinking pints. The conversation also covers the cultural significance of craft brews, innovative advertising strategies during the Super Bowl, and personal anecdotes about memorable beer moments.

Kerris Bright, Chief Customer Officer at the BBC and former CMO at Virgin Media, brings a unique blend of creativity and analytical prowess to her marketing insights. She discusses her unexpected journey from molecular neuroscience to major marketing roles. Kerris shares how purpose-driven campaigns can transform brands and the critical role of authenticity in messaging. She also highlights the importance of collaboration between marketing and sales teams and offers candid advice for aspiring marketers aiming to make an impact in the industry.

Tim Ellis, the NFL's CMO, and Glenn Cole, co-founder of 72andSunny, dive into how the NFL drives record audiences through emotional storytelling. They reveal the secrets of a powerful agency-client partnership and the strategy behind iconic Super Bowl campaigns. The duo discusses the Taylor Swift effect and how personal profiles of players foster deeper connections with fans. They also explore the surge of flag football and the NFL's commitment to growth, both nationally and internationally, embracing inclusivity and engaging young audiences.

Mauro Porcini, Chief Design Officer at PepsiCo and author of 'The Human Side of Innovation,' shares his insights on fostering a culture of innovation. He emphasizes the importance of human-centric strategies and the characteristics that make successful innovators. Mauro highlights the need for kindness, optimism, and curiosity at work, and discusses why many innovations fail. He also explores balancing tradition with innovation in branding, showcasing how to inspire creativity and collaboration within diverse teams.

David Droga, founder of the award-winning agency Droga5 and now CEO of Accenture Song, shares his remarkable journey from copywriter to industry leader. He discusses his pioneering campaigns, including the memorable Marc Ecko guerrilla marketing effort and a unique approach for the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Droga highlights the importance of pushing creative boundaries and embracing discomfort in professional growth. He also reflects on successfully navigating Super Bowl advertising, emphasizing targeted strategies and emotional storytelling.

In a revealing conversation, Antonia Wade, CMO of PwC, interviews Jon Evans, who transitioned from tax intern to a successful marketing expert. They explore Jon's corporate mishaps, including his firing from Lucozade, and what makes a great CMO today. The duo discusses vital traits for CMOs like confidence and financial literacy, the impact of COVID-19 on marketing strategies, and the evolving role of AI in creativity. Celebrations of podcast milestones add a personal touch, highlighting the joys of the journey.

In this engaging discussion, Sir John Hegarty, the iconic founder of BBH, and Orlando Wood, a renowned author and colleague at System1, tackle the urgent need for a creative revolution in advertising. They explore the potential of humor and emotional storytelling to connect genuinely with audiences. The duo also highlights the shift toward marketers becoming 'entertainment directors' and emphasizes the importance of understanding historical advertising principles. Their new course aims to rejuvenate creativity, ensuring future campaigns resonate deeply.

Rory McEntee, the Brand and Marketing Director for Gymbox, shares insights on how this challenger brand disrupts the gym industry with bold and creative marketing. He discusses reframing perceptions of fitness, transforming workouts into exciting experiences. Rory highlights the importance of embracing constraints, using every interaction as a marketing opportunity, and the philosophy of 'forgiveness not permission.' He also addresses the unique culture at Gymbox and how risk-taking serves as a catalyst for innovation.

Rebecca Hirst, Chief Marketing Officer of EY UK and TEDx Speaker, dives into her journey from leading consumer brands like Coca-Cola and Samsung to a B2B powerhouse. She shares insights on the power of TED Talks and personal growth through public speaking. Hirst contrasts B2C and B2B marketing, emphasizing the need for creativity in B2B and discussing the importance of long-term strategies. She also reflects on navigating corporate dynamics and the value of embracing risks to achieve professional success, advocating for innovative practices in branding.

Michele Moscone, VP of Brand and Creative at Geico, shares her journey from entry-level roles to the creative helm of one of America’s top insurers. She reveals why characters and humor are vital in insurance advertising, noting how they build trust and engagement. Michele recounts a personal story of a Christmas catastrophe and underscores the challenges people face with insurance during crises. The discussion also touches on the evolving landscape of digital marketing and the importance of strong brand-agency relationships.