The Global Discussion

The Global Discussion
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Jan 30, 2025 • 27min

Where is the Best Place to Hide a Dead Body? With Gavin Duff Ep 242 - The Global Discussion

The Global Discussion welcomes a true expert in digital marketing—Gavin Duff, the Head of Digital at Friday Agency, Lecturer, Keynote Speaker, and Author of the brilliantly titled book Hiding Dead Bodies: Your No-Nonsense Path to SEO Glory. Gavin catches up with Host Simon Hodgkins for a compelling discussion. With over 20 years of hands-on experience in digital strategy, SEO, analytics, and e-commerce, Gavin has worked with some of the most recognized brands. Clients have included Bord Gáis, Bus Éireann, The Irish Times, AIB, Danone, Mason Hayes & Curran, Heineken, 3, Mazda, Dominos Pizza, AXA Insurance, 123•ie, Amazon, DIT, Sunway Holidays, Daft•ie, Temple Street. Barrettstown, Matheson, Dublin Business School, Oxfam, Harry Corry, Newstalk, 98FM, Gaiety Theatre, Aer Lingus, Hilton Hotels, HSBC, Ford, TV3, Tayto, permanent tsb, the HSE, MyHome•ie, Trinity College, and many more. His insights into search marketing and human interaction with technology are not just theoretical—they are battle-tested in the ever-evolving world of digital marketing. A Career Built on SEO, Strategy, and Cyberpsychology From his early days working with Yahoo—back when it was a major player in search—Gavin developed a deep-rooted expertise in SEO, content strategy, and search advertising. His experience spans client- and agency-side work, allowing him to advise businesses on creating winning strategies in an increasingly competitive online landscape. Not only does he lead digital marketing efforts at Friday Agency, but he also shares his knowledge through lecturing at Trinity College and speaking at industry conferences. His ability to blend marketing psychology with technical SEO makes him a sought-after expert in the field. The Story Behind Hiding Dead BodiesOne of the most intriguing parts of the conversation was Gavin's book title—Hiding Dead Bodies. While it might raise eyebrows when read in public, the phrase is an inside joke in SEO circles: "The best place to hide a dead body is page two of Google." The book isn't just a guide to SEO; it's a no-nonsense approach to helping businesses outmaneuver competitors, build trust signals, and ensure their content ranks where it matters—on page one. Written in a practical and engaging style, it's designed for marketing professionals who want to understand SEO without getting lost in jargon. AI and the Future of SEO With the rise of AI, many marketers are wondering: What does this mean for SEO? Gavin addressed this head-on, explaining that while AI is being rapidly integrated into digital platforms, the core principles of SEO remain unchanged: Trust signals still matter – AI tools will prioritize content from authoritative, well-linked sources. User engagement will shape rankings – Platforms like ChatGPT and Google's AI will soon analyze how users interact with content. AI is a tool, not a replacement – While AI can help generate ideas and optimize content, it should not be relied upon to fully write SEO-friendly content. For businesses looking to future-proof their SEO strategy, Gavin recommends focusing on quality content, strategic distribution, and optimizing for engagement rather than chasing quick AI-generated solutions. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook
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Jan 23, 2025 • 43min

Closing the Funding Gap for Women Entrepreneurs with Anne Ravanona Ep 241 - The Global Discussion

Host Simon Hodgkins catches up with Anne Ravanona, CEO and Founder of Global Invest Her, to discuss her groundbreaking work in tackling one of the world's most persistent inequalities—the funding gap for women entrepreneurs. Anne's passion for empowering women entrepreneurs is palpable. With a bold mission to fund one million women entrepreneurs by 2030, she is spearheading a global movement to address the systemic biases and barriers that have kept women underfunded, underestimated, and overlooked in the business world. A Problem Too Big to Ignore Anne's advocacy is driven by shocking statistics. "Only 2% of venture capital worldwide goes to women-owned businesses, and less than 1% of corporate and government procurement budgets are allocated to them," she explained. Moreover, the global credit gap between male and female entrepreneurs, which stood at $300 billion in 2013, has now ballooned to $1.7 trillion. Anne doesn't mince words: "The world is missing out on innovation, social impact, and $28 trillion in global economic growth by failing to fund women entrepreneurs at the same level as men. This is not just a women's issue—it's a global opportunity." The Three Pillars of Change Anne's approach to addressing this inequality is as multifaceted as the problem itself. She describes her strategy as a "three-legged stool" that balances practical solutions, policy shaping, and advocacy. 1. Practical Solutions Through Global Invest Her Anne's platform, Global Invest Her, offers tools to demystify the funding process, boost confidence, and connect women entrepreneurs with funders. Two flagship initiatives are gaining traction: The Deal Flow Directory: A curated platform for investors to discover high-potential, women-led ventures. Buy From Her Marketplace: A global directory and marketplace where consumers, corporations, and governments can consciously choose to support women-owned businesses. 2. Shaping Policy for Systemic Change Anne is a prominent voice in policy-making circles, serving on the EU delegation of the W20, an official G20 engagement group. Her team crafts actionable recommendations for governments, focusing on tax incentives, access to collateral, and entrepreneurial education. "We can't solve this overnight," she says, "but systemic change starts with informed policies." 3. Advocacy and Mind-Shifting Through public speaking engagements, her podcast (Invest Her), and collaborations with global organizations, Anne amplifies the stories of women entrepreneurs and challenges societal biases. Her TEDx talk and appearances at the United Nations, European Parliament, and other global stages have established her as a leading voice in the fight for gender equality in entrepreneurship. A Movement Built on Community Anne emphasized the importance of collective action. "We can't do this alone," she said. "Global Invest Her is about connecting the dots—bringing together founders, funders, and policy-makers to drive real change." Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook
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Jan 16, 2025 • 36min

Marketing in a Changing World with Tatiana Mirska Ep 240 - The Global Discussion

Tatiana Mirska, Chief Marketing Officer of CHI Software, shares her inspiring career journey across diverse industries like consumer goods, banking, eSports, and software. She discusses her role as a change agent, leading organizations through transformation while navigating challenges and cultural differences. Tatiana highlights CHI Software’s transition into AI-driven solutions, showcasing innovative products like customizable AI assistants. 00:00 - Tatiana Mirska, CMO 01:02 - Starting a Career in Marketing 03:20 - From Consumer Goods to eSports 06:45 - Lessons in Change Management 09:11 - Working Across Cultures 15:21 - Embracing AI at CHI Software 23:42 - Advice for Marketing Leaders 32:04 - Patience and Leadership in Change Listen to The Global Discussion on… • Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n • Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ • YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos • Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes
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Jan 9, 2025 • 40min

Carbon is Not a Dirty Word with Samantha Jewel Ep 239 - The Global Discussion

Samantha Jewel, CEO of Urth, joined The Global Discussion to share her journey and solutions for addressing climate challenges. Her passion for soil health and her focus on action stand out as practical and impactful. From Restaurants to Regenerative Farming Samantha’s family founded Australia’s first restaurant chain in 1965. By the late 1990s, they served over 50,000 meals a week. While running the business, Samantha began to question farming practices. She was shocked by what she discovered—chemicals, GMOs, and practices harming food and health. This questioning led her to explore organics and regenerative farming. In 2006, she purchased Australia’s first soil carbon credit, setting the stage for her work in carbon markets. The Power of Soil Soil is at the center of Samantha’s work. She sees it as the key to solving issues like food security, climate change, and water management. Healthy soil absorbs carbon, improves biodiversity, and helps plants thrive. Samantha’s message is simple: carbon is not a problem—it’s a solution. By focusing on soil health, we can draw carbon from the atmosphere and store it in the ground. This benefits both the planet and the farmers working the land. Urth: Bridging the Gap Through her company, Urth, Samantha helps farmers and businesses work together. Farmers improve their soil and earn money by selling carbon credits. Businesses offset their emissions and support regenerative practices. Urth’s “Putting nature on the balance sheet” tagline reflects Samantha’s mission. Urth creates financial incentives for sustainable farming by making carbon measurable and tradable. Changing Mindsets Samantha knows farmers face challenges. Changing practices can feel risky, especially with unpredictable weather and financial pressures. But she emphasizes the rewards—better yields, healthier soil, and long-term stability. She also helps businesses understand the value of carbon credits. Her work connects these two worlds, driving change and creating opportunities for both sides. A Vision for Action Samantha’s book, Carbon is Not a Dirty Word, is designed to be an easy read. It breaks down the complex world of carbon markets into straightforward steps. Whether you’re a farmer, business leader, or policymaker, the book offers practical guidance. In the months and years ahead, Samantha plans to: - Expand regenerative farming projects worldwide. - Partner with governments and organizations to scale solutions. - Educate more people about the power of soil and carbon. What Can You Do? Samantha believes everyone can contribute. You can make informed choices about the food you buy. Businesses can measure their carbon footprint and explore offsets. Farmers can explore new practices to improve soil health. Where to Learn More You can find Samantha’s book and learn about Urth at: - Urth.io - SamJewel.com Samantha is also active on LinkedIn and Instagram, sharing insights and updates. Her message is clear: the tools to heal the planet exist. The next step is action. How will you contribute? Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook
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Jan 2, 2025 • 38min

Inside the Dolby Theatrical Studio with Tiphany Kane Ep 238

We welcome inspiring guest Tiphany Kane, CEO of KaSa Media Productions and a powerhouse in audio and video production, to this episode of The Global Discussion with Host Simon Hodgkins. Tiphany's story is not just about building a cutting-edge studio; it's about resilience, creativity, and a passion for empowering others. If you are into audio, podcasting, and everything sound-related, keep listening (or watching!) From Passionate Beginnings to Industry Pioneer Tiphany Kane's journey to becoming a leader in media production is as compelling as it is inspiring. She transitioned from a successful career in education to the demanding and dynamic world of media after being told she was "too passionate." Instead of dimming her light, Tiphany channeled that passion into podcasting, creating a space for her voice and helping others do the same. Her venture into podcasting sparked a transformation—not just for her but countless others who now look to her for mentorship, guidance, and expertise. Tiphany's belief that "everyone's voice matters" underpins everything she does, from hosting award-winning podcasts to founding KaSa Media Productions, a company that specializes in empowering creators to share their stories. A Game-Changing Studio: Just Four Feet Studio A highlight of the episode was the unveiling of Tiphany's ambitious new project: Just Four Feet Studio. Located in Laguna Hills, California, the studio is a first-of-its-kind in Orange County, offering an unparalleled range of audio and video production services. What began as a modest idea evolved into a sprawling 5,500-square-foot facility featuring: • Dolby Atmos Mixing Stages: Including a theatrical stage for cinema-quality sound production. • Voiceover and ADR Rooms: Designed for seamless dialogue recording and post-production. • Virtual Production Room: A state-of-the-art green screen space powered by Unreal Engine. • Community Education Space: A 1,000-square-foot area for training, workshops, and internships aimed at fostering the next generation of creatives. Tiphany shared the story behind the studio's name, Just Four Feet Studio, which stemmed from a decision to expand a room by a mere four feet to accommodate Dolby theatrical certification. That small adjustment turned into a massive endeavor, showcasing Tiphany's determination to push boundaries and exceed expectations. Amplifying Voices Through Awards and Advocacy In addition to her studio work, Tiphany is a passionate advocate for underrepresented voices in podcasting. She co-founded the Sonic Bloom Awards, an initiative recognizing creators for their impact rather than their download numbers. The awards celebrate contributions to diverse communities, including LGBTQIA+, differently-abled individuals, and women of color. This initiative complements Tiphany's other accolades, including multiple industry awards like the Davey Award and the Communicator Award. Her dedication to elevating others reflects her belief that everyone's story has value and the power to inspire. A Roadmap to Success and Community Impact Looking ahead, Tiphany envisions her studio as more than a business—it's a community hub. She plans to host educational events, internships, and collaborations with major industry players. Her ultimate goal? To make Just Four Feet Studio a premier destination for creatives while nurturing an inclusive, inspiring environment. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook
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Dec 18, 2024 • 28min

From Actress to Entrepreneur: The Nomad Advantage with Sonia Amroun Ep 237 - The Global Discussion

The Global Discussion Podcast welcomes Sonia Amroun, the founder of Find Your Clients. Sonia shared her fascinating journey from being an actress to becoming a global digital nomad and a trailblazing entrepreneur. Her passion for empowering businesses, particularly startups and solopreneurs, was palpable throughout the conversation. Sonia’s unique perspective on blending creativity, business strategy, and conscious leadership makes her a force to reckon with in the modern business landscape. From Actress to Entrepreneur: A Global Journey Sonia’s story is as dynamic as her personality. Originally a part-time actress, Sonia discovered her knack for sales and business development early in her career. Her energy and enthusiasm led her to pursue various roles, from running a North African-European collaborative brand to organizing large-scale events with over 500 attendees. But Sonia’s journey didn’t stop there. She embraced the digital nomad lifestyle, leaving behind her role as Head of Sales for a green mobility company in Paris. This bold move allowed her to connect with a global network of like-minded individuals, ultimately inspiring the creation of Find Your Clients, an agency powered entirely by digital nomads. What Is Find Your Clients? At its core, Find Your Clients is a business accelerator agency tailored for startups, solopreneurs, and small businesses struggling to juggle every aspect of growth. Sonia and her team focus on identifying and targeting ideal clients to help businesses scale sustainably. The agency offers fractional teams—remote professionals with senior-level expertise—who collaborate to handle the most critical aspects of business development. This innovative model allows businesses to access a comprehensive team for less than the cost of hiring one full-time employee. As Sonia puts it, “For less than the price of one person, you have four areas of expertise working for you.” The Nomad Advantage One of the standout features of Find Your Clients is its global workforce of digital nomads. Sonia explained how these professionals, living and working in various regions around the world, bring a unique edge to businesses looking to expand into new markets. “We understand the culture and dynamics of the regions we live in, making us perfectly positioned to help clients enter new territories,” she said. This approach also champions a sustainable and flexible work-life balance. The agency attracts senior consultants who want to leverage their expertise without being tied to the constraints of traditional corporate roles. Sonia’s vision for the future of work is clear: empowering experienced professionals to contribute to meaningful projects while embracing a nomadic lifestyle. Sonia’s Vision for the Future Sonia’s mission extends beyond profit—she’s passionate about empowering positive-impact projects, such as green solutions and socially conscious businesses. “We’re not hustling for money,” she says. “We want to support projects that align with our values and make a difference.” Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook
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Dec 16, 2024 • 45min

Creating Wealth, Community and Breaking Barriers with Mary Ann Pierce Ep 236 - The Global Discussion

Guest Mary Ann Pierce, an inspirational leader, innovator, and advocate for women in business, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode. As the Founder and CEO of MAP Digital and a Global Ambassador for AwakenHub, Mary Ann is a trailblazer in digital transformation, event technology, and female entrepreneurship. A Pioneer in Digital Event Technology Mary Ann’s journey into the digital space began in 1996 when she conducted her first webcast—an experience she likens to falling into Alice’s rabbit hole. From there, she never looked back, becoming a visionary in integrating technology into events long before it was the norm. Her company, MAP Digital, is a full-service global event management agency that also developed the groundbreaking MetaMeetings platform. This all-in-one platform integrates everything from content management and live streaming to data tracking and attendee engagement, creating a seamless experience for event organizers and participants alike. “Events are the last frontier of underutilized content,” Mary Ann explained during the podcast. “It’s a terrible thing to waste. Live events are authentic and human. Why not maximize their reach with AI tools and thoughtful design?” Her innovative approach has allowed MAP Digital to produce large-scale events, including some of the world’s largest investment banking conferences, with an unparalleled focus on content repurposing and attendee engagement. Empowering Women Through AwakenHub Beyond her professional achievements in technology, Mary Ann is also a fierce advocate for female entrepreneurship. She serves as a Global Ambassador for AwakenHub, an all-island network supporting female founders across Ireland and Northern Ireland. AwakenHub’s mission is simple yet profound: to empower women to build wealth, create thriving businesses, and support their communities. Through AwakenAngels, the organization’s female-focused angel investment syndicate, Mary Ann is helping to break down the barriers to funding that female founders so often face. “Women are inheriting significant wealth globally,” she said. “For the price of a weekend away, anyone can join this movement to fund and uplift female entrepreneurs. It’s about building a bigger pie—not scarcity.” Mary Ann’s passion for fostering ecosystems that nurture innovation and equity is palpable. She is paving the way for a more inclusive and sustainable future by encouraging women to invest in women. Global Connectivity and Democratization of Knowledge Mary Ann also champions the power of digital tools to democratize knowledge and opportunities worldwide. Her work extends beyond corporate events into social good initiatives, including Project Dandelion, which she supports alongside former Irish President Mary Robinson. Through these projects, she’s leveraging technology to address critical issues like climate justice and gender equity on a global scale. Lessons for Future Leaders When asked for advice, Mary Ann’s wisdom shines through. She encourages young professionals to embrace failure, explore their passions, and focus on becoming well-rounded individuals. For aspiring entrepreneurs, her message is clear: build networks, volunteer, and focus on creating processes that lead to excellence. “Don’t be afraid. Fail, learn, and keep moving forward. Your job is to become the best human you can be.” Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook
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Dec 12, 2024 • 30min

From TV to Telecoms: Mastering Marketing with Nataly Byelous Ep 235 - The Global Discussion

Guest Nataly Byelous, Group Marketing Director at RETN, is in discussion with The Global Discussion Host Simon Hodgkins. In this episode, we explore Nataly's remarkable journey and the critical role marketing plays in the ever-evolving telecommunications industry. With over two decades of experience, Nataly brings a unique perspective, blending creativity, strategy, and resilience. From TV to Telecommunications Nataly's career path is as fascinating as it is diverse. She began her professional journey in television as a PR specialist, eventually transitioning to marketing roles across multiple industries. For the past decade, she has been immersed in the tech and telecommunications sectors, contributing significantly to their growth and innovation. Since 2021, Nataly has been leading the marketing efforts at RETN, a global telecommunications network provider that boasts an impressive 135,000 kilometers of network infrastructure spanning Europe, Asia, and North America. "I like to call myself the Chief Juggler," Nataly shares, underscoring her multifaceted role. Her leadership has been instrumental in elevating RETN's reputation, earning it prestigious accolades like the Best Pan-European Carrier Award. Driving Connectivity in a Changing World Telecommunications are the backbone of our increasingly connected world, and RETN's contributions are undeniable. With over 870 points of presence (PoPs) worldwide, the company plays a crucial role in enabling data flow across continents. Nataly emphasized the importance of innovation, sustainability, and adaptability in navigating this complex landscape. "Even though machines are talking to machines, we're still communicating with people," she noted. Nataly explained how RETN integrates cutting-edge technology with customer-centric strategies to address modern challenges, such as sustainability and ESG compliance. Collaborations with leading vendors like Juniper and Infinera have enabled RETN to implement environmentally conscious solutions while maintaining operational excellence. The Evolving Role of Marketing Marketing, according to Nataly, has transformed into a highly dynamic and demanding field. From the explosion of digital channels to the rise of AI-powered tools, the modern marketer's toolkit is both an opportunity and a challenge. "We've gone from having 30 seconds to make an impression to just 1.7 seconds," she remarked, highlighting the pressure to stand out in an oversaturated market. Yet, she remains optimistic, seeing AI and automation as tools that free up time for strategic thinking and creativity. Nataly also touched on the importance of maintaining ethical standards in communications, a lesson she learned early in her career. "Trust and reputation are everything," she stressed, encouraging aspiring marketers to prioritize education and integrity. Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook
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Dec 11, 2024 • 37min

How to Build Strategic Marketing Talent with Lisa Eaton Ep 234 - The Global Discussion

The Global Discussion Host, Simon Hodgkins, speaks with Lisa Eaton, the Founder and CEO of Fabric. Lisa shared her inspiring journey to becoming a transformative leader, revolutionizing how marketing professionals learn and grow. Her story is not just one of personal triumph but a powerful commentary on how education and industry can better align to drive meaningful impact. A Career Built on Strategy and Vision Lisa Eaton's journey began in the marketing department of Sage, a company that has since become a global powerhouse. Lisa honed her craft there before following then-CEO Graham Wylie to TSG, where she established a marketing department from the ground up. While her early career was deeply rooted in technology, Lisa soon discovered her passion for agency work, which married strategic thinking with creative execution. This passion ultimately led her to found her own strategic marketing agency in the Northeast of England. Even with the agency's success, including a waitlist of clients, Lisa encountered a significant roadblock: a shortage of strategic marketing talent. This challenge catalyzed her exploration into the gap between academic marketing education and industry needs, ultimately sparking the creation of Fabric. Fabric: Bridging the Gap Fabric was born from Lisa's frustration with outdated marketing curriculums that failed to prepare graduates for real-world challenges. "Marketing isn't just a nice-to-have," Lisa emphasized during the podcast. "It's a strategic function critical to business growth." Fabric delivers practical, hands-on training that transforms marketers into commercially minded, strategic thinkers. With a unique three-pronged approach, Fabric combines foundational education, one-on-one coaching from industry practitioners, and ongoing updates on the latest tools and trends. Lisa's mission is clear: to create world-class marketers who drive measurable impact. Navigating Challenges and Finding Opportunity Funding presented hurdles. As a female tech founder, Lisa entered an investment landscape where less than 2% of funding goes to women-led businesses. Despite this, her strategic approach—bootstrapping the business early, securing large global brands like Boots and Heineken, and showcasing tangible results—helped her close two successful funding rounds. Shaping the Future of Marketing Looking ahead, Lisa is laser-focused on scaling Fabric's reach and influence. She envisions a future where marketing is universally recognized as a vital business enabler. By equipping marketers with the skills to be both strategic and creative, Lisa aims to elevate the profession and its impact on businesses worldwide. To learn more about Fabric Academy or connect with Lisa Eaton, visit Fabric. "Great marketing moves the dial," Lisa explained. "But to achieve that, marketers need time to think strategically, plan effectively, and focus on what truly matters—not just the urgent tasks of the day." Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook
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Dec 4, 2024 • 39min

Building Profitable and Authentic Businesses with Samantha Hearne Ep 233 - The Global Discussion

Samantha Hearne is the founder of Samantha Hearne Coaching, a dynamic entrepreneur, and a passionate advocate for helping women thrive in business. In this episode of The Global Discussion, in conversation with Host Simon Hodgkins, Sam shares her story and actionable insights. Her multi-faceted approach to success will leave listeners feeling motivated and ready to embrace simplicity, profit, and personal authenticity in their entrepreneurial journeys. A Vision Rooted in Simplicity and Success Sam Hearne isn't your average business coach. With a first-class honors degree in education and years of teaching experience, she's mastered the art of breaking down complex concepts into practical, actionable steps. Her coaching revolves around three core focus points: Sales and Profit: Helping clients increase their revenue while maintaining simplicity. Marketing and Messaging: Guiding women to craft clear, effective, and compelling brand stories. CEO and Success Embodiment: Empowering entrepreneurs to step into their roles with confidence and clarity. Sam teaches women to build sustainable, profitable businesses that align with their lifestyles through her work. Her mantra is simple but powerful: success doesn't have to be complicated. The Heart of Samantha's Mission At the core of Samantha's approach is a passion for empowering women to live on their own terms. During the episode, she shared her belief that every entrepreneur's success is inevitable when they focus on consistency, authenticity, and adding value. "People succeed because they implement and execute, not because they master overly complicated methods," she said, emphasizing the importance of simplifying the path to business success. A New Venture: The Bulletproof Clothing Line In addition to her coaching and mentoring work, Samantha recently launched a clothing line, The Bulletproof Brand. The collection features three inspiring lines—Destiny, Success, and Abundance—each designed to embody a mantra that resonates deeply with her community. Giving Back: A Commitment to Change Samantha's commitment to creating positive change doesn't stop at coaching and business ventures. Through her partnership with Mary's Meals, she funds meals for 180 children at a school in need yearly. "I believe that the more you have, the more you can give," Sam shared. She plans to expand her philanthropic efforts by supporting initiatives for women affected by domestic abuse through her clothing line. Building Communities That Thrive One of Sam's standout qualities is her ability to bring people together. She hosts two types of events: larger gatherings of up to 65 people and more intimate sessions with 16 participants. These events are designed to foster connection, inspire creativity, and remind attendees that they're not alone in their entrepreneurial journeys. For Sam, these events are more than just networking opportunities—they're a way to create a space where women can build lasting relationships and find their "aha" moments of clarity and empowerment. Planning for Abundance How does Samantha manage her packed schedule of coaching, events, podcasting, and philanthropy? The answer lies in her meticulous planning and belief in creating balance. "I plan a year in advance," she explained. "It gives me the freedom to say yes to creative opportunities and know when I have time to take on something new." Follow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes. Watch or listen to The Global Discussion Web: https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ Audio Podcast: ⁠Spotify⁠ | ⁠Google⁠ | ⁠Apple⁠ Video Podcast: ⁠https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com⁠ YouTube: ⁠https://bit.ly/TGD-YouTube⁠ Follow us on LinkedIn/Social Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/theglobaldiscussion Others: X, Instagram, and Facebook

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