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CMO Confidential

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May 6, 2025 • 34min

Andrew Medvedev | A Perspective on Business Schools - The Race to Keep Up With the Marketplace

A CMO Confidential Interview with Andrew Medvedev, Dean of the Weatherhead School of Management at  @case  Western Reserve University, former Managing Director and portfolio manager at Morgan Stanley. Andrew discusses why he left Wall Street for the opportunity to reimagine Weatherhead, why schools should reassess traditional industrial economy approaches to education, and his vision of building a "problem solving institution" which trains students on "how to get things done." Key topics include: the importance of relational skills and the ability to understand context; how his team measures leadership competencies; why nothing beats "reps at life;" and tips for selecting the school that's right for you. Tune in to hear why you should "Trust people more than you think you should."In this insightful episode of CMO Confidential, host Mike Linton engages with Andrew Medvedev, Dean of the Weatherhead School of Management at Case Western Reserve University. Formerly a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley, Andrew shares his journey from Wall Street to academia and discusses his mission to transform business education to better align with today’s dynamic market demands.Key Discussion Points: • Transitioning from finance to academia • The evolving role of business schools in a changing economy • Emphasizing experiential learning and real-world application • Developing leadership competencies and relational skills • Measuring success beyond traditional academic metrics⸻⏱️ Chapter Markers: • 00:00 – Introduction by Mike Linton • 00:45 – Andrew Medvedev’s background and career shift • 03:30 – The vision for reimagining Weatherhead School • 06:15 – Challenges facing traditional business education • 09:00 – Importance of experiential learning and ‘reps at life’ • 12:20 – Measuring leadership and relational competencies • 15:10 – Collaborations with industry and alumni engagement • 18:00 – Adapting curriculum to market needs • 21:00 – Building a problem-solving institution • 24:30 – Advice for prospective MBA students • 27:15 – The significance of trust in leadership • 30:00 – Final thoughts and closing remarks⸻#CMO Confidential, #Andrew Medvedev, #Weatherhead School of Management, #Case Western Reserve University, #Business school leadership, #Business education trends, #Leadership development, #Management education, #Wall Street to academia, #Business school dean interviewSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Apr 29, 2025 • 38min

Jim Lecinski | The Insomnia Cookies Case - The GOST Model Taught at Northwestern

A CMO Confidential Interview with Jim Lecinski, Clinical Professor of Marketing at the Kellogg School of Management, two time author, and former Google VP. Jim discusses the need to teach both durable and perishable knowledge, the importance of faculty composition, why students should "sample" B-Schools, and how the Northwestern "House Design" keeps it ranked as the #1 marketing school. We go inside the Insomnia Cookies Case which uses GOST (Goals, Objectives, Strategy and Tactics) and 70/20/10 to train students on driving revenue, profit and market share. Tune in to hear why you shouldn't be a "Tumbleweed" and instead strive to "Meet the universe halfway."A CMO Confidential Interview with Jim Lecinski, Clinical Professor of Marketing at The Kellogg School of Management, 2-time author and former Google VP. Jim discusses the need to teach both durable and perishable knowledge, the importance of faculty composition, why students should "sample" B-Schools, and how the Northwestern "House Design" keeps it ranked #1 in marketing. We go inside the Insomnia Cookies Case which uses GOST (Goals, Objectives, Strategy and Tactics) and 70/20/10 to train students on driving revenue, profit and market share. Tune in to hear why you shouldn't be a "Tumbleweed" and instead strive to "Meet the universe halfway."00:00 – Welcome & IntroMike introduces Jim Lecinski, his background at Google and Northwestern, and tees up today’s topic: The Insomnia Cookies Case and the GOST model.03:42 – From Google to the ClassroomJim shares the story of Eric Schmidt’s advice to “teach, don’t pitch”—a philosophy that reshaped his approach to marketing and led to academia.07:25 – Are Business Schools Outdated?Jim responds to critiques that MBA programs lag behind marketing’s evolution. He introduces the idea of durable vs. perishable marketing knowledge.12:10 – What Makes Northwestern DifferentA deep dive into how Kellogg blends academic and practical knowledge through its marketing strategy curriculum and clinical faculty.16:32 – The Insomnia Cookies CaseJim explains why Insomnia Cookies became a great example of strategic growth thinking—and what other brands can learn from it.20:48 – Introducing the GOST ModelUsing GOST (Goals, Objectives, Strategies, Tactics), Jim unpacks how Insomnia grew revenue 3x through disciplined planning, not buzz or virality.28:55 – The 70/20/10 Growth FrameworkHow Insomnia balanced core product expansion, adjacent markets (like vegan cookies), and new categories (ice cream) to create sustainable momentum.33:30 – Avoiding the “Gold Mine” TrapWhy companies rush into adjacent businesses (like Peloton did) and how to model your way out of distraction and back to core growth.39:14 – How Kellogg Stays #1 in MarketingThe role of clinical faculty, student engagement, and a culture of “yes, and” in maintaining relevance in a fast-changing field.42:00 – Advice for Aspiring Marketers Choosing B-SchoolsJim outlines what to look for when evaluating a program—beyond the rankings and websites.46:10 – Meet the Universe Halfway: Career Advice + Jazz StoryJim’s closing advice for career success, plus an embarrassing moment involving jazz legend Wynton Marsalis.49:25 – Wrap-up & Where to Listen NextMike closes the show and directs listeners to other relevant episodes on CLTV, Peloton, Budweiser, and Warby Parker.⸻#InsomniaCookiesmarketingstrategy, #GOSTmodelmarketing, #KelloggSchoolofManagementmarketing, #JimLecinskiGoogle, #MikeLintonCMOpodcast, #MarketingeducationKellogg, #Durablevs.perishablemarketing, #MarketingcasestudiesMBA, #Incremental marketing growth, #How to grow a brand, #CMO career advice, #Business school marketing curriculum, #Marketing ROI metricsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Apr 15, 2025 • 35min

Jon Miller | Cofounder Marketo, Engagio | The Gumball Machine is Broken - Rethinking B2B Marketing

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Apr 8, 2025 • 32min

John Rudaizky | Global CBO and CMO, EY | Marketing a Service - The Art of Selling Confidence

A CMO Confidential Interview with John Rudaizky, EY Chief Brand & Marketing Officer, who previously held leadership positions at WPP, J. Walter Thompson, and Saatchi & Saatchi. John discusses the concept of confidence including how to market it to clients, build it into the organization and measure it in the marketplace. Key topics include: why brands benefit from strong competitors; his belief that creativity is the single most important business advantage; and the challenge of ensuring creative thinking isn't relegated to the back seat as companies focus on tactics. Tune in to hear the thinking behind EY's rebrand.Step into the world of marketing leadership with "The Art of Selling Confidence in Marketing Services," featuring global marketing expert John Rudaizky, the Chief Brand and Marketing Officer at EY. Hosted by five-time CMO Mike Linton, this episode of CMO Confidential delivers invaluable insights into the art of building trust and confidence in marketing services.Key topics include:- The critical role of confidence in B2B marketing decisions and brand trust.- Strategies for measuring confidence within your organization and among clients.- How to navigate rapid changes in technology, AI, and global business landscapes.- Lessons from John s extensive career at WPP, J Walter Thompson, and Saatchi & Saatchi.- The importance of creativity and collaboration in shaping effective marketing strategies.Tune in to hear how top CMOs are tackling today’s marketing challenges, the future of AI in marketing, and actionable advice for building a successful career in the industry.Don’t miss this opportunity to elevate your marketing game. Subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for exclusive content and stay connected with us on your favorite podcast platforms.#MarketingStrategy, #GrowthMarketing, #BrandBuilding, #MarketingInnovation, #DigitalMarketingTrends, #BusinessGrowth, #CMOChallenges, #customerexperience Follow us on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cmo-confidentialCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:19 - Marketing a Service: Selling Confidence Strategies03:12 - Measuring Confidence: Key Metrics and Insights07:53 - Expanding the Brand: All In Strategy12:52 - Change Management for Smaller Companies16:22 - EY Partnerships: Collaboration Insights18:45 - Managing Negative PR: EY's Approach20:57 - POST GAME: Recap and Insights21:15 - AI in Marketing: Trends and Innovations23:25 - Audience Advice: Tips and Best Practices29:04 - Final Thoughts: Last Question DiscussionSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Apr 1, 2025 • 27min

Rishad Tobaccowala | The Omnicom IPG Merger - What it Means & What's Next | Part 2

A CMO Confidential Interview with Rishad Tobaccowala, former Publicis Groupe Strategy & Growth Officer, speaker, author, and podcast host of "What's Next." Rishad discusses the media, data, and technology scale benefits driving agency consolidation, the challenge of managing people through a merger, and his new book, Rethinking Work. Key topics include: why talent and marketing will be more important in an AI world; why everyone should operate as a "company of one;" how the world is moving to a "whales and plankton model;" and why clients should consider a "Master Blaster" model. Tune in to hear why he's concerned about mollycoddling and a Mary Poppins analogy. It's a Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious 2-part show!AI will change marketing forever—are you ready? In this episode of CMO Confidential, host Mike Linton, a five-time CMO, sits down with renowned author and industry thought leader Rishad Tobaccowala to explore the transformative impact of AI on marketing, leadership, and talent. Key topics include the importance of "data-driven storytelling," why marketing's mix of "math and magic" will thrive in the AI era, and how top talent leveraging AI will shape the industry's future.Tune in to hear Rishad's expert advice on thriving as a "company of one," the shift from bosses to true leaders, and the six essential skills every marketer must master. Discover why AI isn't just a tool but a game-changer for how businesses operate and compete in an evolving landscape. Whether you're an aspiring marketing leader or seasoned CMO, this episode offers actionable insights to navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead.Don’t miss the chance to learn how to rethink your approach to work, marketing, and leadership in the AI age. Subscribe to CMO Confidential for exclusive content and stay ahead of the curve in the ever-changing world of marketing.#marketingagainstthegrain #contentmarketing #digitalmarketing #socialmediamarketing #datadrivenstorytellingCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:07 - Importance of Marketing02:59 - Quality vs. Quantity in Marketing06:25 - Career Development Strategies10:57 - Essential Marketing Skill Sets19:59 - Future Marketing Trends by 202524:10 - Practical Marketing Advice26:15 - OutroSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Mar 25, 2025 • 28min

Rishad Tobaccowala | The Omnicom IPG Merger - What it Means & What's Next | Part 1

A CMO Confidential Interview with Rishad Tobaccowala, former Publicis Groupe Strategy & Growth Officer, speaker, author, and podcast host of "What's Next." Rishad discusses the media, data, and technology scale benefits driving agency consolidation, the challenge of managing people through a merger, and his new book, Rethinking Work. Key topics include: why talent and marketing will be more important in an AI world; why everyone should operate as a "company of one;" how the world is moving to a "whales and plankton model;" and why clients should consider a "Master Blaster" model. Tune in to hear why he's concerned about mollycoddling and a Mary Poppins analogy. It's a Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious 2-part show!Get the inside scoop on the Omnicom and IPG merger and what it means for the future of marketing! In this episode of CMO Confidential, host and five-time Chief Marketing Officer Mike Linton dives into the critical insights every CMO needs to navigate this game-changing merger. Joined by special guest Rashad Tabakawala, former Chief Strategist and Growth Officer of Publicis Groupe and best-selling author, this discussion unpacks how the merger impacts scale, data, technology, and the role of creative agencies.Key topics include the consolidation of holding companies, the challenges of scaling media, data, and tech, and the future of large agencies versus niche specialists. Rashad also shares his expert perspective on the evolving agency ecosystem and what this means for marketers selecting partners in a rapidly changing landscape. With lessons from past mergers and actionable advice for CMOs, this is a must-watch for marketing leaders looking to stay ahead.Tune in to hear Rashad's unique take on the future of the industry and discover how to position your brand for success in this new era of marketing. Don't forget to subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for exclusive insights and updates. Stay informed, stay connected, and stay ahead with CMO Confidential! #omnicomipgmerger #MarketingStrategy, #GrowthMarketing, #BrandBuilding, #MarketingInnovation, #DigitalMarketingTrends, #BusinessGrowth, #CMOChallenges, #CustomerExperienceCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:40 - Rishad Tobaccowala Joins the Show01:27 - Omnicom IPG Merger Analysis11:15 - Future Implications of Omnicom IPG Merger15:18 - Impact on Other Companies18:45 - Future Trends for Businesses22:00 - Client Strategies for Success27:33 - End of Part 1See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Mar 18, 2025 • 32min

Joe Tripodi | Lessons Learned From a Storied Marketing Career | Former CMO Coca-Cola, Mastercard

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Mar 11, 2025 • 43min

Richard Sanderson | A Rapid Evolution in the Marketplace - The Spencer Stuart 2025 CMO Study

Richard Sanderson, leader of Spencer Stuart's Marketing, Communications, and Sales Practice, unpacks intriguing findings from the 2025 CMO study. He reveals that only 40% of companies still hold the title of CMO and highlights the rising trend of hybrid roles like Chief Growth Officer. The conversation dives into the impact of AI on marketing careers, the challenges of board representation, and the emotional journey of job transitions. Sanderson also discusses why this is still 'The Golden Age of Marketing,' even amidst evolving workplace dynamics.
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Mar 4, 2025 • 34min

ZRG Partners| The Top 5 Mistakes CEOs and Boards Make When Hiring CMOs| Kate Bullis and David Wiser

Join Kate Bullis and David Wiser, Managing Partners at ZRG Partners and experts in executive search for marketing roles. They dive into the common hiring pitfalls CEOs and boards face, cleverly likening them to movie plotlines like 'Death by Committee.' Discover why seeking only playbook candidates can backfire, the importance of aligning CMO roles with company goals, and lighthearted anecdotes from virtual interviews. Their insights promise to empower those looking to secure top marketing talent and avoid cinematic hiring disasters.
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Feb 25, 2025 • 26min

Gary Briggs | Marketing Observations and Lessons Learned From the 24' Presidential Election | Part 2

Welcome back for Part 2 of A CMO Confidential Interview with Gary Briggs, former CMO of Facebook and eBay, and board member at Etsy, Petco & Combe. As the Paid Media Advisor to the Harris campaign, Gary shares the inside story of what it is like to work at breakneck speed in the rapid spin up of a political organization and all of the marketing that goes with it. Key discussion points include: a look at the billions spent in 18% of the country; what it's like to make tens of thousands of creative assets at speed; why all of the marketing, public relations, social media and news organizations function as a "single thing" for consumers; and the extreme segmentation and personalized messaging that accompanies "the voter file." Tune in to hear if working on a political campaign is right for your career and why campaigns error on the side of "more is more." Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the 2024 presidential campaign marketing with "Inside 2024 Campaign Marketing Secrets 🚨." In this episode of CMO Confidential, five-time CMO and host Mike Linton welcomes marketing veteran Gary Briggs to discuss the incredible scope, rapid scaling, and strategic decision-making behind political campaigns. Gary, former marketing leader for Facebook, PayPal, and eBay, shares his hands-on experience working on the Biden-Harris and Harris-Walz campaigns and reveals the strategies that shaped the election’s outcome.Key topics include the unprecedented $10 billion in campaign spending, the role of targeted paid media, and crafting a winning messaging strategy under intense time and budget constraints. Tune in to hear expert insights on voter analytics, game theory in political advertising, and the challenges of operating at a scale unmatched in the corporate world. Discover what it takes to build and dismantle a billion-dollar marketing operation in months and how these lessons apply to any high-stakes business environment.Don't miss this opportunity to learn from top marketing minds! Subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for exclusive content, and stay tuned for part two of this fascinating conversation. #facebookads #emailmarketing ##digitalmarketingCHAPTERS:00:00 - Adobe Summit00:41 - Introduction to the Summit01:24 - Overview of the 2020 Election02:28 - Marketing Strategies in Elections05:33 - Gary's Involvement in the Election09:42 - Understanding the Voter File11:42 - Biden Campaign's Data Resource Allocation13:33 - Media Strategies of the Biden Campaign19:15 - Scale of Biden's Media Operations22:15 - Effective Messaging Techniques24:32 - Consequences of Losing25:29 - Register for Adobe SummitSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

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