
The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström®
Expert mode marketing technology, AI, and CX insights from top brands and Martech platforms fill every episode, focusing on what leaders need to know to build customer lifetime value and long-term business value. The Agile Brand with Greg Kihlström® features executives and thought leaders from top brands and platforms discussing the industry's trends, like first-party data strategies, artificial intelligence, consumer data privacy, omnichannel customer experience, and more. The Agile Brand is hosted by Greg Kihlström, advisor and consultant to leading brands, speaker, entrepreneur, and best-selling author. It provides a fresh perspective on the continually evolving dynamic between brands and the audiences they serve.
Latest episodes

Oct 18, 2024 • 36min
#590: AI in marketing highly regulated sectors with Nauman Hafiz, Constellation
With 40% of marketers experiencing more responsibility in the workplace according to a recent MarketingWeek survey, it is clear that marketing teams are being asked to do more with the same or less time and resources.Today we’re going to talk about the role of AI in transforming marketing in regulated sectors with Nauman Hafiz, Chief Technology Officer at Constellation. We'll explore how AI is reshaping the marketing landscape, particularly in industries like Automotive, Pharma, Insurance, and Banking, and discuss the implications for data privacy.RESOURCESConstellation website:https://www.helloconstellation.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/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

Oct 16, 2024 • 37min
#589: Product-led Growth and AI with Sonal Mane, Databricks
Today we’re going to talk about the innovative use of AI in driving product-led growth with Sonal Mane, Senior Director of Digital Customer Experience and Growth at Databricks.RESOURCESDatabricks website: https://www.databricks.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/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

Oct 14, 2024 • 31min
#588: Powering up your knowledgebase for better CX with Sophie Wyne, Ariglad
You probably feel like you know your customers pretty well, but you can’t know everything, and there always seems to be a new question that you or your team are unprepared to answer or respond to. How do you identify those gaps before you get a tough question from your customer?Today we’re going to talk about the transformative power of knowledgebases in customer support with Sophie Wyne, CEO of Ariglad. We’ll discuss how a well-maintained knowledgebase can benefit both customers and internal teams and how AI plays a crucial role in optimizing this resource.Sophie Wyne is the Co-Founder and CEO at Ariglad. After participating in the prestigious Y Combinator program in San Francisco, Sophie raised $2M of capital in Ariglad's Seed round. Since launching the first AI knowledge base tool of its kind, Sophie is focusing on educating the CX space on the unique benefits of AI and is a leading voice in the growing AI Customer Success space. Ariglad is headquartered in San Francisco and the team is spread across North America and Europe.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

Oct 11, 2024 • 36min
#587: Aligning product and marketing in the C-suite and beyond with Tifenn Dano Kwan, Amplitude
When product and marketing are more aligned in an organization, there can be some amazing outcomes, including when CMOs and Chief Product Officers are more in line. It also helps when CMOs are able to establish and maintain trust both within the C-Suite as well as across the organization.Today we’re going to explore both of these and more and look at strategic leadership and growth tactics with Tifenn Dano Kwan, Chief Marketing Officer at Amplitude, a leading digital analytics company.Tifenn’s mission is to shape the future of work through superior digital experiences, great teams, and technology that customers love. At Amplitude, she leads its global marketing strategy and team as its Chief Marketing Officer. Prior to joining Amplitude, Tifenn was the CMO at Collibra, Dropbox, SAP Ariba, and SAP Fieldglass. Tifenn holds a Master's of Law from L’ICES, l’Institut Catholique de Vendée and a Master's of Management from Audencia Business School. She is a graduate of the Kellogg Executive Education CMO Program.RESOURCESAmplitude website: https://www.amplitude.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/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

Oct 9, 2024 • 26min
#586: Winning E-commerce By Boosting Efficiency with Tobias Sjölin, Boozt
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

Oct 7, 2024 • 25min
#585: Inventory management to the rescure with Riikka Söderlund, Katana
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

Oct 4, 2024 • 26min
#584: The power of data and AI in the enterprise with Krishnan Venkata, LatentView Analytics
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

Oct 2, 2024 • 40min
#583: Redefining success and failure with Jesse Tayler, Founder of TruAnon
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

Sep 30, 2024 • 29min
#582: Cookieless advertising in a first-party data world with Eric Wheeler, 33Across
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

Sep 27, 2024 • 31min
#581 The impact of bots on the customer experience with Nanhi Singh, Thales
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