The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström®: Expert Mode Marketing Technology, AI, & CX

It’s not every day I get to see 1,000 robots all in one place, so today is special in a few ways. First of all, I’m here in Ängelholm, Sweden at the Boozt Fulfillment Center, and am about to take a tour of their facility - robots and all - in a few minutes.But before that, we’re going to talk about creating amazing efficiencies while also delivering on an amazing customer experience in online retail. After all, why can’t you have a lower cost per transaction while raising your net promoter score?To help me discuss this topic, I’d like to welcome Tobias Sjölin, CTO of Boozt Fulfilment & Logistics - a division of Boozt Group.RESOURCESWix Studio is the ultimate web platform for creative, fast-paced teams at agencies and enterprises—with smart design tools, flexible dev capabilities, full-stack business solutions, multi-site management, advanced AI and fully managed infrastructure. https://www.wix.com/studioAttend the Mid-Atlantic MarCom Summit, the region's largest marketing communications conference. Register with the code "Agile" and get 15% off.Register now for HumanX 2025. This AI-focused event which brings some of the most forward-thinking minds in technology together. Register now with the code "HX25p_tab" for $250 off the regular price.Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.comThe Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnowThe Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

Today we’re going to look at the impact of social media on product demand and inventory management with Riikka Söderlund, COO at Katana. We’ll explore the double-edged sword of viral products and how sophisticated inventory management can serve as a crisis management tool.Riikka Söderlund is the chief marketing officer at Katana Technologies, where she is responsible for demand generation and day-to-day marketing operations. From transforming how some of the biggest brands and companies utilize technology in their marketing, to using data driven insights to produce exceptional results for B2B SaaS and media groups, Riikka applies her expertise to holistically design scalable strategies that move the needle for Katana and its customers. Today, her knowledge helps small and medium-sized businesses uplevel their operations, contributing to the $2 billion in annual sales order volume that flow through the platform.RESOURCESKatana website: https://katanamrp.com/Wix Studio is the ultimate web platform for creative, fast-paced teams at agencies and enterprises—with smart design tools, flexible dev capabilities, full-stack business solutions, multi-site management, advanced AI and fully managed infrastructure. https://www.wix.com/studio  Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.comThe Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnowThe Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

Today we're talking about the power of data and AI in the enterprise with Krishnan Venkata, Chief Client Officer at LatentView Analytics. We’ll explore how data can drive meaningful business change, demystify the applications of generative AI, and discuss strategies for successful adoption of data initiatives.With over 20 years of experience in the Technology and Knowledge Services, I am a seasoned analytics executive who leads global client services at LatentView Analytics, a leading data and analytics firm. As the Chief Client Officer, my mission is to build long-term and mutually beneficial partnerships with our clients, and to bring them innovative and impactful solutions across each stage of our relationship.About Krishnan VenkataI have a deep technical knowledge and a strong track record of managing C-level relationships and leading sales and business development. I have also successfully abstracted solutions delivered into products and platforms, and evangelized them across organizations with similar pain points across industries.In addition to my role at LatentView, I also serve as a board advisor to early-stage technology companies, where I leverage my expertise and network to help them grow and scale.RESOURCESLatentView Analytics website: https://www.latentview.com/Wix Studio is the ultimate web platform for creative, fast-paced teams at agencies and enterprises—with smart design tools, flexible dev capabilities, full-stack business solutions, multi-site management, advanced AI and fully managed infrastructure. https://www.wix.com/studio  Attend the Mid-Atlantic MarCom Summit, the region's largest marketing communications conference. Register with the code "Agile" and get 15% off.Register now for HumanX 2025. This AI-focused event which brings some of the most forward-thinking minds in technology together. Register now with the code "HX25p_tab" for $250 off the regular price.Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.comThe Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnowThe Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

Success - like perfection - is subjective, and often depends on who you ask, when you ask, and the metrics you use.Today we’re going to talk about the definition of success—and failure—as well as how to look at what you are currently doing with a new context. We’ll also talk about Jesse’s latest venture and the challenges of digital identify.To help me discuss this topic, I’d like to welcome Jesse Tayler, Founder of TruAnon and inventor of the App Store.Jesse Tayler built a storied career in Silicon Valley as the startup, crypto inventor of the first App Store (which he personally demonstrated to Steve Jobs in 1993). His work spans many pioneering firsts to the latest identity verification solutions. His work includes the first-ever private equity trading platform on the web and pioneering the first geo-coded food delivery, (also a Steve Jobs related startup and curated in the Smithsonian Institute under inventions of the 20th century). Jesse's lifelong contributions are widely recognized for changing the world of computing, with popular inventions showcasing the impact of his larger-than-life role. Jesse is a book author relating to expert software process and is retained for talks on technology, training, and coaching for startups in their early and growth phase. Jesse is also a musician with a composition currently streamed on Spotify and iTunes.RESOURCESTruanon website: https://www.truanon.comWix Studio is the ultimate web platform for creative, fast-paced teams at agencies and enterprises—with smart design tools, flexible dev capabilities, full-stack business solutions, multi-site management, advanced AI and fully managed infrastructure. https://www.wix.com/studio  Attend the Mid-Atlantic MarCom Summit, the region's largest marketing communications conference. Register with the code "Agile" and get 15% off.Register now for HumanX 2025. This AI-focused event which brings some of the most forward-thinking minds in technology together. Register now with the code "HX25p_tab" for $250 off the regular price.Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.comThe Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnowThe Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

Just because Google’s deprecation of third-party cookies is indefinitely delayed, doesn’t mean that brands should throw their first-party data strategies out the window.Today we’re going to talk about cookieless advertising and how advertisers can thrive with a first-party data approach.To help me discuss this topic, I’d like to welcome Eric Wheeler, CEO & Founder, 33Across.Eric has over 30 years of experience building innovative, high-performance digital advertising companies. He co-founded and has been the Chief Executive Officer of 33Across since 2007. Prior to 33Across, Eric was COO of Carat Interactive and co-founder and President/COO of Lot21, the award-winning digital agency that sold to Carat in 2002.RESOURCES33Across website: https://www.33across.comAccess the latest 33Across Cookie Alternative Report here:https://www.33across.com/insights/report/advertising-report-q2-2024/Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.comThe Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnowThe Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

As bot activity is impacting consumer trends, it is important for brands to be agile with technology.Welcome to today’s episode where we’re diving into the challenges and opportunities presented by the rise of bot activity in several key industries with Nanhi Singh, Chief Customer Officer & GM Application Security, Imperva a Thales company. We’ll explore the implications of the 2024 Imperva Bad Bot Report and discuss strategies for staying agile amidst these changes.Nanhi Singh is responsible for application security products and all functions that enhance customer experience and value for Imperva customers. This includes customer support, consulting, training, customer success, managed services, and renewal sales. Prior, she was SVP, Customer Retention and Renewals at Symantec. Nanhi's career spans more than decades in cybersecurity and technology, always leading customer-facing functions.Nanhi also serves on the Board of Directors of Franchise Group and serves as a member of the Audit Committee on that Board. She serves on the Board of Directors of Peninsula Open Space Trust (POST), a nonprofit public benefit corporation. She is passionate about | supporting women and minorities in the Technology industry and was previously a mentor in the Tech Women program.RESOURCESThales website: https://www.thalesImperva 2024 Bad Bot Report: https://www.imperva.com/resources/resource-library/reports/2024-bad-bot-report/Attend the Mid-Atlantic MarCom Summit, the region's largest marketing communications conference. Register with the code "Agile" and get 15% off.Register now for HumanX 2025. This AI-focused event which brings some of the most forward-thinking minds in technology together. Register now with the code "HX25p_tab" for $250 off the regular price.Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.comThe Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnowThe Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

Today, we’re exploring the transformational power of on-demand production and real-time data in a few different industries with Leonard Marano, President, Americas at Lectra. We’ll discuss how these technologies are revolutionizing the fashion, automotive, and furniture sectors by enabling brands to respond rapidly to consumer demands.RESOURCESLectra website: https://www.lectra.comRegister now for the Medallia CX Day Webinar: Building Loyalty: How Top Brands Create Forever Customers with CX. Greg Kihlström will be moderating this discussion with CX experts. Register now (it's free)Don't miss the Mid-Atlantic MarCom Summit, the region's largest marketing communications conference. Register with the code "Agile" and get 15% off.Register now for HumanX 2025. This AI-focused event which brings some of the most forward-thinking minds in technology together. Register now with the code "HX25p_tab" for $250 off the regular price.Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.comThe Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnowThe Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

Today we’re going to talk about the art of creating forever customers with Michael Mallett, Vice President, Product - CX Solutions Strategy at Medallia. We’ll explore strategies for enhancing customer visibility, prioritizing impactful improvements, and fostering continuous improvement within organizations.I’m also excited about the upcoming CX Day webinar from Medallia coming up on Tuesday, October 1, where I’ll be moderating a panel including some amazing customer experience experts. We’re going to give a sneak preview of some of the topics to be discussed then, and we’ll include the link in the show notes.RESOURCESMedallia website: https://www.medallia.comRegister for the Medallia CX Day webinar: Building Loyalty: How Top Brands Create Forever Customers with CX - https://bit.ly/3M7dkQMConnect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.comThe Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnowThe Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

Today we’re going to talk about how brands can use streaming and shoppable TV to engage and build valuable customer relationships.While Roku is mostly known as the most popular streaming platform in the US, Canada, and Mexico reaching over 83 million households, it’s also a strategic advertising destination for some of the biggest brands from Disney to McDonald’s. To talk about all of this as well as some recent announcements, I’d like to welcome Peter Hamilton, Senior Director of Ad Innovation, Roku.Peter Hamilton is an experienced technology executive as well as an active advisor and investor in tech startups with passionate founders. He joined Roku in 2021 as the Head of Television Commerce. Today, he is the Senior Director of Ad Innovation at Roku, where his teams build all consumer-facing ad experiences on Roku.RESOURCESRoku website: https://www.roku.com/Roku Ads Manager: https://advertising.roku.com/solutions/advertise/ads-managerConnect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregkihlstromDon't miss a thing: get the latest episodes, sign up for our newsletter and more: https://www.theagilebrand.showCheck out The Agile Brand Guide website with articles, insights, and Martechipedia, the wiki for marketing technology: https://www.agilebrandguide.comThe Agile Brand podcast is brought to you by TEKsystems. Learn more here: https://www.teksystems.com/versionnextnowThe Agile Brand is produced by Missing Link—a Latina-owned strategy-driven, creatively fueled production co-op. From ideation to creation, they craft human connections through intelligent, engaging and informative content. https://www.missinglink.company

Today we’re exploring the dynamic intersection of healthcare, privacy, and patient experience with Tracey Schroeder, Chief Communications & External Affairs Officer at Inova Health System. Tracey brings a unique perspective from her transition from the hospitality industry with a role as Vice President and Global Head of Consumer PR at Marriott International to healthcare with her current role at Inova.Tracey Schroeder is Chief Communications and External Affairs Officer at Inova Health System. Tracey leads communications, marketing, physician relations and government affairs for Inova Health System, inclusive of brand development, internal communications, physician communications, media relations, social media, and digital strategy.Tracey leads a team of 70 individuals supporting Inova, a $6 billion health system in Northern Virginia. Inova sees over two million unique patients a year across five hospitals and 200 outpatient sites.Prior to joining Inova in 2021, Tracey served as Vice President, Global Consumer Public Relations at Marriott International leading public relations for Marriott’s 30 brands and consumer-facing initiatives across customer experience, digital, experiential, and global marketing partnerships.