

CMO Confidential
Mike Linton // I Hear Everything Podcast Network
Wonder what it's like to control millions of dollars of marketing budget? Manage hundreds of people? Make the decisions on which ideas get to market?The CMO Confidential podcast shares how it feels to be in that chair of the shortest-tenured position on the C-suite.We detail the long, hard road most ideas take to get to market & how challenging it is to get the best ones through.Hosted by Mike Linton -- the former P&G Brand Manager who went on to be the Chief Marketing Officer of Best Buy, eBay, and Farmers Insurance, as well as the Chief Revenue Officer of Ancestry.com and the head marketer at Remington -- this show serves as an ongoing lesson plan for how to get, do, keep, and handle the pressures of the CMO job.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 22, 2024 • 33min
Joyce Kim | Report From the Front Lines of Cybersecurity & What It Means for Marketers | Zscaler
A CMO Confidential Interview with Joyce Kim, CMO of cloud cybersecurity company Zscaler. In this highly informative and conversational interview, Joyce describes the ongoing race between companies and the innovative onslaught of bad actors, the concept of "Zero Trust," and how marketers can be good partners with their Chief Information Security Officers (CISOs). Key topics include: what to do if you have a breach; why marketers are often on the front lines of cyber; and questions she asks during the interview process to better understand the candidate's perspective on where marketing fits in a tech company. Also, tune in to hear why she always asks what everyone is wearing before an event.Avoid This Security Mistake: Insights from Top CMOs is a must-watch for marketers seeking to understand the evolving landscape of cybersecurity. Hosted by five-time CMO Mike Linton, this episode of CMO Confidential features Joyce Kim, CMO of Zscaler, a leader in cloud security. Tune in to hear Joyce's insights as she navigates the complexities of cybersecurity, from endpoint protection to zero trust architecture. Key topics include the growing threat of breaches, the role of AI in cyber defense, and the importance of maintaining consumer trust.Joyce Kim, with her extensive background at Google, Microsoft, and Zscaler, brings a wealth of knowledge on mitigating risks in a digital world. Learn how marketers can collaborate with IT to protect their organizations and explore best practices for managing breach responses. This episode offers invaluable perspectives on how to safeguard your company's assets while driving innovation.Subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for Exclusive Content and keep up with industry-leading insights. Stay connected with us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more.#zerotrust #cloudsecurity #zerotrustsecurityposture #marketinginsights #customerjourneyCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:40 - Cybersecurity Strategies06:19 - Impact of Data Breaches08:14 - Good vs. Bad Actors in Cybersecurity11:58 - AI and Cybersecurity for Marketers12:25 - Marketing Best Practices17:20 - Consequences of Rogue Behavior19:30 - Response to Data Breaches22:35 - Marketing Security Solutions25:22 - Technology and Marketing Integration28:33 - Final ThoughtsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Oct 15, 2024 • 35min
The Digital Ad Industry is Built on the Wrong Principles & Other Things That Make You Go Hmmm
A CMO Confidential Interview with Tom Goodwin, author, speaker, and former head of innovation at Publicis, Zenith and Havas. Tom makes the case that much of today's marketing spending is wasted on a "playbook of precision" where everything can be attributed and all customers can be micro-targeted. Key topics include: why branding in the AI Age is more important than ever; why claiming performance marketing success may not represent actual success; and his belief that advertising and brand building are slow and weak, but necessary for the long-term success of most businesses. Tune in to hear a Restoration Hardware case study and learn about Fredkin's Paradox and the Dopamine Culture.Discover the digital ad secrets that could be wasting 80% of your budget in this insightful episode of CMO Confidential, hosted by seasoned marketing executive Mike Linton. Tune in to hear from Tom Goodwin, a leader in innovation and change, known for his thought-provoking book "Digital Darwinism." Key topics include the pitfalls of digital advertising, the over-reliance on attribution, and the misunderstood role of AI in marketing. Tom shares his unique perspective on the industry's outdated principles and the need for a return to brand-building fundamentals. As the former Head of Innovation at Zenith and SVP of Strategy and Innovation at Havas, Tom's insights offer valuable lessons for CMOs and marketers navigating today's complex landscape. Don't miss the chance to learn how to optimize your marketing strategies effectively. Subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for exclusive content and stay updated with the latest marketing insights.#marketingagainstthegrain #affiliatemarketing #socialmediamarketing #mediabuying #marketinganalyticsCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:34 - AI in Marketing08:38 - Issues in Digital Advertising10:53 - Flaws in Marketing Principles14:30 - Restoration Hardware Case Study16:43 - Role of CMOs in Marketing19:30 - Understanding Slow and Weak Marketing22:40 - Importance of Good Writing Skills25:00 - The WASL Effect and Dopamine Culture31:00 - Tom’s Top Marketing Prediction32:40 - Final Thoughts and Questions34:35 - OutroSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Oct 8, 2024 • 35min
Scott Griffiths | Primer on the Marketing CFO - Why it Might Be Right for You | CMO Confidential
A CMO Confidential Interview with Scott Griffiths, CFO of the Affiliati Network, formerly the Marketing CFO at Farmers and VP at Countrywide. Scott discusses how marketing and finance can get into a self fulfilling doom loop by avoiding hard discussions, what it takes to be a good Marketing CFO, and his belief that it is important to recognize the true leaders versus solid performers. Key topics include: how to manage your built in bias for certain marketing components, why Marketing CFO's need to be comfortable with ambiguity and "building a circumstantial case," and why teams shouldn't move levers independently. Listen in to hear a funny story about an Englishman at the Farmers Insurance Open.Step into the world of marketing and finance as we uncover "The Truth About Marketing & Finance: Inside the Drama" on CMO Confidential. Hosted by seasoned CMO Mike Linton, this episode delves into the dynamic intersection of marketing and finance. Join special guest Scott Griffiths, the trailblazing Marketing CFO at Farmers Insurance, as he shares insider insights on navigating the complexities of marketing strategy and financial accountability. Key topics include aligning marketing efforts with strategic goals, the art of saying 'no' with impact, and identifying what makes a team truly excel. Tune in to hear how Scott's journey from KPMG auditor to CFO has shaped his unique perspective on balancing creativity with data-driven decisions. Discover actionable advice for marketers and finance professionals alike, and learn how conflict, when managed well, can lead to superior outcomes. Subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for exclusive content and stay updated with the latest marketing insights.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:40 - What is a Marketing CFO04:24 - Aligning on Key Metrics09:28 - Improving Job Performance13:17 - Characteristics of a Bad Finance Person16:40 - Traits of a Poor Marketing Person20:32 - Resolving Conflict for Better Solutions28:54 - Tips for Finance Professionals31:07 - Final Question Insights33:50 - OutroSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Oct 1, 2024 • 32min
Seth Matlins |Why is Marketing in a Perpetual State of Chaos? | CMO Confidential | Forbes CMO Network
A CMO Confidential Interview with Seth Matlins, Managing Director of the Forbes CMO Network, formerly Head of Cultural Strategy and Insights at Endeavor, Global CMO of Live Nation, President of Rock the Vote and Founder of CAA Marketing. Seth discusses why he thinks the media is overhyping the drama around the CMO position, the CEO misperception that they understand marketing because they have been marketed to, and the difference between "dull truths and exciting lies." Key topics include: how easy it is to be ignored when there is "no emotional response" to your marketing; how the Forbes Most Influential CMO list is compiled; and why basic marketing truths still matter. Tune in to hear his thoughts on retail advertising networks, Nike, and the cookie switcheroo.Unlock the secrets of the Chaos Era in marketing with the dynamic insights shared in "CMO Secrets: The Chaos Era Revealed." Join host Mike Linton, former CMO of Best Buy, eBay, and more, as he dives into a riveting conversation with Seth Matlin, Managing Director of the Forbes CMO Network. Key topics include the evolving state of marketing, the challenges facing Chief Marketing Officers today, and how to navigate the tumultuous landscape of advertising and brand strategy. Tune in to hear Seth's expert take on the influence of CEOs on marketing roles, the implications of digital transformation, and the critical balance between emotional and logical marketing strategies. This episode promises to equip you with actionable insights from industry leaders. Subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for exclusive content and stay ahead in the ever-changing world of marketing.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:40 - Chaos in Marketing: Understanding Constant Change06:19 - Overcoming Dullness: Solutions for Marketing Chaos14:47 - Forbes CMO List: Influential Leaders in Marketing20:02 - Current Marketing Chaos: Trends and Challenges24:03 - Nike: Marketing Strategies and Success27:30 - Final Advice for Marketers: Key Takeaways28:19 - Funniest Marketing Story: Insights and Humor31:27 - OutroSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sep 24, 2024 • 29min
Matt Carey |Home Depot | The Marketing Interface With Tech, IT, AI and CX - An Acronym Feast! | CMO Confidential
A CMO Confidential Interview with Matt Carey, EVP Customer Experience and CIO at Home Depot, formerly the SVP and CTO at both eBay and Wal-Mart. Matt discusses how the majority of customer experience is provided by tech, why you shouldn't buy "tech for tech's sake," and why marketers should always "know precisely what problem they want to solve" when interfacing with IT. Key topics include: why you should always have use cases for the MarTech stack; why microscopic measures are important; and practical step-by-step advice on AI - pro tip - don't start with "I want to apply AI!" Tune in to hear practical examples from Home Depot and Delta.Discover "The Untold Impact of AI on Customer Experience" as CMO Confidential dives into the intersection of marketing and technology. Hosted by Mike Linton, a five-time CMO with expertise from Best Buy, eBay, and more, this episode features guest Matt Carey, EVP of Customer Experience at Home Depot and former CTO at eBay and Walmart. Key topics include the integration of AI in enhancing customer interactions, the challenges of aligning company efficiency with customer satisfaction, and practical steps for marketers to effectively collaborate with IT teams. Tune in to hear Matt's insights on leveraging AI without overwhelming your customer base and the importance of specificity in problem-solving. Whether you're a marketing executive or an aspiring leader, this episode offers valuable lessons on navigating the evolving landscape of customer experience. Embrace the future of marketing with clarity and precision. Subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for Exclusive Content and stay ahead in the marketing world.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Introduction to Customer Experience00:40 - Matt Carey, EVP at Home Depot03:44 - Managing Data and Technology09:56 - Measuring Customer Experience14:05 - Artificial Intelligence in CX19:18 - Marketing Technology Stack22:45 - Collaborating with IT Teams27:17 - Final Thoughts and Questions27:54 - Expert Advice for Success28:39 - Conclusion and OutroSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sep 17, 2024 • 32min
Michael Treff | CMO Confidential | Using AI for Anticipation vs. Reaction - An Agency Perspective
A CMO Confidential Interview with Michael Treff, the CEO of Code + Theory, a growing 2000 person agency which combines engineers and creatives. Michael discusses how AI combines new factors and current data to anticipate consumer behavior, why AI represents "change management for humans," and how his agency is writing AI into job descriptions. Key topics include: why money saved with AI efficiency should be invested in customer innovation; how thinking B2B is different puts creativity in a box; and the difference between "structuring and using" data versus "collecting" data. Tune in to hear travel and publishing examples and a punk rock story about a band called Baby Teeth.Unlock the secrets to mastering AI in marketing with "Avoid AI Prediction Pitfalls: Anticipate Like a Pro." Tune in to hear the insights of Mike Linton, 5-time CMO and host of CMO Confidential, as he dives deep into the nuances of AI anticipation versus reaction. Joining him is Michael Treff, CEO of Code and Theory, an agency renowned for its innovative blend of creativity and technology. Key topics include the evolving role of AI in predicting consumer behavior, the difference between prediction and anticipation, and how businesses can leverage AI to create unique customer experiences. Michael shares valuable insights from his extensive experience with tech, financial services, and e-commerce clients. Discover how to transform AI from a tool for efficiency to a creative enabler in your marketing strategies. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your understanding of AI's potential in business. Subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for exclusive content and stay informed on the latest marketing trends.CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:42 - Anticipation vs Reaction07:55 - Anticipation in Travel14:00 - Historical Example of Anticipation16:25 - Marketers' Perspective on Anticipation16:40 - Actionable Strategies for Marketers19:55 - Getting Started with AI24:33 - AI Applications in B2B Marketing28:33 - Punk Rock Influence30:11 - Final Question31:32 - OutroSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sep 10, 2024 • 36min
Kim Whitler | A Marketing Potpourri - CMO Stages, Activism Research and Name Image & Likeness(NIL)
A CMO Confidential Interview with Kim Whitler, business professor at the University of Virginia and former GM and CMO. Kim joins us to discuss how start-ups require different CMO's at the various stages starting with seed money and ending with an IPO, how good intentions can jeopardize business success on the corporate activism front, and how to think about NIL from the perspective of marketers and athletes. Key topics include: why blue chip CMO's often fail when they move to the start-up world; why you should reframe activism from "right versus wrong" to a "risk lens;" and the difference between eyeballs and brand fit when evaluating NIL. Listen in to hear the difference between a "steel man" vs. a "straw man" argument and why you should think about the former for your business.Unlock CMO Success: The Stages You MUST Master with insights from CMO Confidential, a podcast hosted by Mike Linton, former CMO of companies like Best Buy and eBay. Tune in to hear Dr. Kim Whitler, Assistant Professor of Marketing at the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, share her unique perspective on the stages of CMO success. Key topics include the evolving role of a CMO from startup phases to IPO, the impact of corporate activism, and the strategic use of name, image, and likeness in marketing. Discover how CMOs can navigate the complex landscape of marketing leadership and learn from real-world examples of successful strategies. This episode offers valuable insights for marketers aiming to enhance their leadership skills and stay ahead in the competitive business environment. Subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for exclusive content and stay informed with the latest marketing insights. Don't miss out on this opportunity to elevate your marketing knowledge!CHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:40 - Kim Whitler, PhD01:52 - CMO Success: Marketing Strategies09:31 - Corporate Activism: Business Risks16:21 - Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL)18:15 - Athlete Branding Strategies22:19 - Monetizing Your Brand: Follower Count26:51 - Measuring NIL ROI Effectively29:45 - Marketing Best & Worst Practices33:02 - Practical Advice for Marketers33:21 - Steelmanning: Navigating Activism35:30 - OutroSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

7 snips
Aug 27, 2024 • 36min
Daniel McCarthy | CMO Confidential | The Rise & Fall of Peloton as Seen Through the Eyes of CLTV
Daniel McCarthy, a Professor of Marketing at the University of Maryland and expert in customer lifetime value analytics, shares keen insights on Peloton's rise and fall. He discusses how misinterpreting post-COVID trends hurt Peloton financially and spurred a stock price crash. The conversation highlights the pitfalls of aggressive growth strategies, the significance of cohort analysis, and the dangers of price cuts. With valuable lessons for marketers, McCarthy emphasizes the balance between growth and profitability, stating, 'Valuation is a painkiller.'

Aug 20, 2024 • 33min
Karna Crawford | CMO Confidential | The Customer Loyalty Crisis & What to Do About It
Join Karna Crawford, CMO of Marqeta and former marketing strategist at JPMorgan Chase and Ford, as she dives into the customer loyalty crisis. She reveals how brands often overlook customer retention for acquisition, creating 'promiscuous customers.' Learn how AI can personalize experiences to win back loyalty and the importance of balancing customer interactions. Karna also shares cautionary tales, like GAP and United’s missteps in loyalty initiatives. Tune in for valuable insights to revamp your marketing strategy!

Aug 13, 2024 • 34min
Kate Bullis | CMO Confidential | A Top Search Executive's View of Tech, Marketing & the Marketplace
A CMO Confidential Interview with Kate Bullis, Global Marketing Practice Leader and Managing Director at ZRG Partners. Kate discusses the "growth renaissance" occuring in tech, B2B, and Private Equity where marketing is emerging as a growth driver, why companies in transition often look for new talent, and "what a difference maker" great marketers are to companies. Key topics include: why diversity of skills on boards is important; why many companies are moving away from pattern matching and playbook hiring; and key questions to ask in the interview process including picking up on "the little things." Listen in to hear why you should never take a position where Marketing is "The Yes Center."Discover the truth behind today's CMO job market in this insightful episode of CMO Confidential! Join Mike Linton, a seasoned five-time CMO, as he dives deep into the current state of the chief marketing officer landscape with Kate Bullis, Global Marketing and Revenue Practice Leader and Managing Director at ZRG Partners. Kate brings invaluable experience, handling 20 to 25 executive marketing assignments annually, and she’s here to share her expert insights.Key topics include the fluctuating demand for CMO roles, the impact of economic corrections on marketing opportunities, and the evolving expectations of marketing leadership in B2B and enterprise technology sectors. Tune in to hear Kate's perspective on how companies in transition and transformation are always in need of new marketing leadership, and the critical differences in hiring trends between public, private, and venture capital-backed companies.Understand the essential qualities and strategic mindset required for aspiring CMOs to navigate and succeed in today’s competitive job market. Kate also shares practical advice on avoiding the "yes center" trap and emphasizes the importance of qualitative skills in leadership roles.Subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for Exclusive Content and stay tuned for more episodes on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, and the I Hear Everything Network. Enhance your marketing acumen and stay safe out there!#MarketingMarketplace #B2BMarketingStrategies #ExecutiveMarketingRoles #MarketingRolesExplained #MarketingLeadershipCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:24 - Job Market Trends03:46 - B2B Market Revival07:17 - Understanding Company Types12:28 - Search Duration Insights14:55 - Importance of Marketing16:40 - Marketers on Corporate Boards18:53 - Consumerization in Marketing20:02 - Identifying Marketing Believers28:24 - Tips for Aspiring CMOs31:38 - Funniest Marketing Stories33:40 - OutroSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.


