The Creative Mindset

Career relevance is a constant concern throughout anyone’s career, according to Rishad Tobaccowala, a visionary in creative business strategy and four-decade-long advisor to professionals and organizations. In this second episode, we discuss the common concerns that middle and senior managerial professionals encounter amidst continual change and technological advancements, such as AI. Rishad shares philosophies for career longevity and actionable tips for relevance, including dedicating an hour daily to learning, critically assessing opposing viewpoints, and focusing on creating rather than managing.Tobaccowala was named by BusinessWeek as one of the top business leaders for his pioneering innovation and TIME magazine dubbed him one of five “Marketing Innovators. Rishad is the author of “Restoring the Soul of Business: Staying Human in The Age of Data” which helps people think, feel, and see differently about how to grow their companies, their teams and themselves to remain relevant in transformational time and the upcoming “Re-Thinking Work”  to be published globally by HarperCollins in February 2025 which helps people thrive amidst the seismic changes that will occur at work due a combination of changing demographics, new mindsets, the rise of distributed work, and the spread of AI. Rishad Tobaccowala remains a Senior Advisor to the Publicis Groupe where he has spent his entire 37 career, most recently serving as the Chief Growth Officer and Chief Strategist of the 106,000 person firm.Timestamps:0:00 Intro4:42 The Importance of Allocating Time for Daily Learning8:41 Rethinking Leadership: Learning, Opposing Views, and Creative Growth13:00 Discipline as a Pathway to Freedom and Growth15:24 Finding Joy and Growth in the Crevices of Life22:17 Three Steps to Stay RelevantEpisode References:Rishad Tobaccowala | WebsiteRishad Tobaccowala | SubstackRishad Tobaccowala | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The future of work isn't just about where we work, but how and why. Rei talks with Rishad Tobaccowala, a visionary in creative business strategy, to dissect the evolving landscape of work amid societal and technological upheavals. As the pandemic and AI innovations reshape global work dynamics, Rishad shares his unique insights on how both companies and leaders can adapt to these changes effectively. Throughout the discussion, Rishad highlights five critical shifts reshaping the workplace: societal, technological, market, office, and mindset shifts. With clear, actionable strategies, Rishad delves into the implications of these shifts.Tobaccowala was named by BusinessWeek as one of the top business leaders for his pioneering innovation and TIME magazine dubbed him one of five “Marketing Innovators. Rishad is the author of “Restoring the Soul of Business: Staying Human in The Age of Data” which helps people think, feel, and see differently about how to grow their companies, their teams and themselves to remain relevant in transformational time and the upcoming “Re-Thinking Work”  to be published globally by HarperCollins in February 2025 which helps people thrive amidst the seismic changes that will occur at work due a combination of changing demographics, new mindsets, the rise of distributed work, and the spread of AI. Rishad Tobaccowala remains a Senior Advisor to the Publicis Groupe where he has spent his entire 37 career, most recently serving as the Chief Growth Officer and Chief Strategist of the 106,000 person firm.Timestamps:0:03 Exploring Seismic Changes in Work with Rishad Tobaccowala4:04 The Future of Work: Societal Shifts and Technological Advances8:04 Reinventing Work: The Rise of Small Companies and AI12:24 The Rise of Fractionalized Employees in the Modern Workforce13:54 The Rise of New Leadership and Workplace Dynamics23:19 Five Shifts and Four Actions for Modern Business Success24:36 Four TakeawaysEpisode References:Rishad Tobaccowala | WebsiteRishad Tobaccowala | SubstackRishad Tobaccowala | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this second episode with VP of Creative at Liquid Death, Andy Pearson, we explore the critical role of humor, the importance of taking time off to gain fresh perspectives, and the benefits of committing fully to creative ideas. Andy shares insights into his approach to marketing and life, reflecting on past experiences such as selling high-priced cookies to fund a pivotal career moment, and discusses how his extreme ultramarathon running influences his creative mindset.Andy is the VP of Creative at Liquid Death, one of the fastest growing non-alc beverage brands of all time. As part of Liquid Death's evil mission to make the world healthier and more sustainable, Andy helps oversee all the hilarious creative output from the brand, from its viral video content to social content to merch to experiential events to CRM and more. Prior, Andy spent 12+ years as an award-winning creative at agencies like CP+B, Deutsch LA, and Humanaut. He thinks marketing sucks and we should make entertainment instead.Timestamps:0:03 Rewriting Brand Marketing Rules with Humor and Innovation1:35 The Balance of Risk and Humor in Liquid Death's Marketing5:06 Respectful Marketing Through Creativity and Organic Content8:04 Creative Students Fund Cannes Trip with $500 Cookies10:44 A Year of Travel and Freelancing Sparks Career Transformation13:21 The Mental and Physical Challenges of Ultramarathon Running16:36 Balancing Extreme Work and Nature for Personal Growth20:00 Three TakeawaysEpisode References:Andy Pearson | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Liquid Death's approach to marketing? Don't just market – entertain. Rei talks with VP of Creative at Liquid Death, Andy Pearson, about how the unconventional brand uses humor, creative audacity, and bold characterization to elevate its marketing strategy. Andy discusses the origins of his relationship with the brand's CEO, his process of envisioning Liquid Death as a character rather than just a brand, and how this perspective drives their creative decisions. With a focus on engaging audiences through entertainment rather than traditional marketing, Andy reveals the power of small, impactful ideas that change perceptions and create deeper connections with consumers.Andy is the VP of Creative at Liquid Death, one of the fastest growing non-alc beverage brands of all time. As part of Liquid Death's evil mission to make the world healthier and more sustainable, Andy helps oversee all the hilarious creative output from the brand, from its viral video content to social content to merch to experiential events to CRM and more. Prior, Andy spent 12+ years as an award-winning creative at agencies like CP+B, Deutsch LA, and Humanaut. He thinks marketing sucks and we should make entertainment instead.Timestamps:0:03 Liquid Death's Creative Evolution and Explosive Growth4:29 Liquid Death's Journey from Skepticism to Market Success9:01 Liquid Death's Unique Marketing Approach Through Character-Driven Strategy12:24 The Creative Journey and Evolution of Liquid Death18:05 The Power of Humor in Building Emotional Connections19:16 Creative Marketing Strategies with Liquid Death's Andy PearsonEpisode References:Andy Pearson | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alternative career choices? Next travel destinations? Favorite food? We welcome back David Charles Rodrigues for a fun round of lightning questions.David loves to give brands and IP the soul and longevity they deserve. His work is part of the permanent collection of the Academy Museum - he is a Sundance alumni and TriBeCa Award-winning Brazilian-American filmmaker and creative director. In 2024, he World Premiered his latest feature S/he is Still Her/e at the TriBeCa Film Festival as well as the new Apple TV series Omnivore featuring NOMA Chef Rene Redzepi. Previously, he directed and produced the Netflix original series NEYMAR: The Perfect Chaos. Selected as one of the Top Ten documentaries of 2022, according to Esquire. It was one of the most watched docu-series globally on Netflix, making it to the Top Ten in over 50 countries. The series is Executive produced by Lebron James and Maverick Carter. In 2019, he wrote and directed Airbnb's first ever feature film Gay Chorus Deep South - winner of best doc at the 2019 TriBeCa Film Festival, a silver lion at Cannes and selected to Rotten Tomatoes list of the top 20 LGBTQ films of all time. The film was sold to MTV Documentary Films as its first Oscar contender and is available on Paramount plus. It has become part of the permanent collection of the Academy Museum. David has been a Creative Director/Writer in Advertising since 2001. He has worked at top creative agencies, directly with Fortune 500 brands and his work has been recognized by all the major festivals. His latest clients include Apple, Adidas global and Google Photos. Creative directing, concepting and writing Global campaign platforms, content and product launches. Episode References:David Charles Rodrigues | InstagramDavid Charles Rodrigues | PortfolioRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Pursuing dual career paths can be mutually beneficial and, at times, feed creativity. In this second episode with award-winning filmmaker David Charles Rodrigues, known for his work on Netflix's “Neymar: The Perfect Chaos,” we dive into how David’s dual roles in advertising and filmmaking feed into each other, the current creative industry landscape and the evolution of storytelling across different platforms. The conversation further delves into the role of advertising in the modern age and how the industry maintains its influence amidst a surge of user-generated content. David’s perspective offers a unique lens on why advertising continues to hold relevance and how creativity can inspire societal change.Timestamps:0:03 Staying Relevant in Creative Careers Amid Technological Shifts2:31 Balancing Filmmaking and Advertising for Creative and Financial Fulfillment5:30 The Cost of Being a True Artist and Parent9:54 Finding Meaning and Community in Advertising and Entertainment12:55 Exploring Film, Community Engagement, and Brand-Funded Advertising14:32 The Power of Advertising and Product in Modern Culture17:28 Bridging Entertainment and Advertising Through Original Branded Content17:56 Balancing Filmmaking and Marketing in a Changing Industry21:00 Three TakeawaysEpisode References:David Charles Rodrigues | InstagramDavid Charles Rodrigues | PortfolioRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Could writing and storytelling be the key to self-discovery? Rei talks with award-winning filmmaker David Charles Rodrigues to hear how it was for him, and how it might inspire you too. This week’s episode dives into David’s dual career in filmmaking and advertising, highlighting his transition from a creative director at leading agencies to crafting compelling documentaries that resonate with global audiences. Throughout the conversation, David shares candid insights into his process of storytelling, emphasizing the magic of creativity and the emotional depth of his narratives.Timestamps:0:03 Balancing Dual Careers in Filmmaking and Advertising5:23 Crafting Documentaries: From Dream Characters to Unexpected Stories9:11 The Therapeutic Power of Storytelling and Writing16:42 Creativity as the Human Expression of Magic20:01 Three TakeawaysEpisode References:David Charles Rodrigues | InstagramDavid Charles Rodrigues | PortfolioRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alternative career choices? Next travel destinations? Favorite food? We welcome back Angela Onuoha for a fun round of lightning questions.Angela is the most established and well-known trichologist and Cosmetic Chemist within the creator space. Her advocation for diversity has made her a true force for good within the beauty industry.Angela isn’t just an influencer, she is an educator who is leading input into efficacious formulations and the importance of ingredients. She is working with the globe’s leading hair care brands, advising on product diversity and launching new innovations through her own channels. As a half Nigerian, half Dutch woman who has unfortunately experienced racism first-hand, Angela has been on a journey of self-acceptance, and is on a mission to empower and inspire others. If you’re interested in exploring how brands create cultural influence, join Rei and global brand executive Ana Andjelic on their new podcast “Hitmakers: How Brands Influence Culture”. Every two weeks, Ana and Rei talk about brands that made a dent in culture - through their product, aesthetics, content, business model, or technology - and unpack how they did it.Episode References:Angela Onuoha | InstagramHitmakers Podcast | YouTubeHitmakers Podcast | Apple PodcastsHitmakers Podcast | SpotifyRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Angela Onuoha, a renowned trichologist and content creator based in Amsterdam, discusses striking the perfect balance between authenticity and social media algorithms. She shares her daily routine and strategic approach to content creation, emphasizing planning while remaining adaptable. Angela explains the significance of individuality in a crowded space, advocating for genuine connections despite the pressures of trends. Her journey inspires others as she aims to empower through education, promoting diversity in beauty and simplifying complex topics like cosmetic chemistry.

Perfect jobs are not something you find, but something you create for yourself. Rei talks with Angela Onuoha, a pioneering trichologist and content creator from Amsterdam, to unpack her unique journey into the creator economy. Angela shares how her cultural background and personal experiences with hair care led her to a path she never anticipated—becoming an influential voice in the trichology community. The conversation delves into the evolution of the creator economy and its substantial impact on culture and business today.Angela is the most established and well-known trichologist and Cosmetic Chemist within the creator space. Her advocation for diversity has made her a true force for good within the beauty industry.Angela isn’t just an influencer, she is an educator who is leading input into efficacious formulations and the importance of ingredients. She is working with the globe’s leading hair care brands, advising on product diversity and launching new innovations through her own channels. As a half Nigerian, half Dutch woman who has unfortunately experienced racism first-hand, Angela has been on a journey of self-acceptance, and is on a mission to empower and inspire others. If you’re interested in exploring how brands create cultural influence, join Rei and global brand executive Ana Andjelic on their new podcast “Hitmakers: How Brands Influence Culture”. Every two weeks, the two co-hosts talk about brands that made a dent in culture - through their product, aesthetics, content, business model, or technology - and unpack how they did it.Timestamps:0:03 Exploring Trichology and the Creator Economy with Angela Onuoha1:55 Cultural Influences and Career Challenges in Angela's Journey5:14 From Retail Management to Creative Exploration and Teaching11:21 From Hair Tutorials to Trichology: A Journey of Discovery19:01 Angela Onuoha's Journey to Becoming a Full-Time Content Creator28:53 Angela Onuoha's Journey From Law Student to Trichologist Creator32:43 Creating Your Perfect Job and Embracing Career Evolution34:09 Announcing the Hitmakers: How Brands Influence Culture PodcastEpisode References:Angela Onuoha | InstagramHitmakers Podcast | YouTubeHitmakers Podcast | Apple PodcastsHitmakers Podcast | SpotifyRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate SiteSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.