Building Brand Trust & Human Connection with Special Guest Jeanniey Walden

On this episode, Pete and Julie welcome award-winning Chief Marketing Officer, founder, author, and TV host Jeanniey Walden to the show for a masterclass in modern leadership, marketing, brand storytelling, and authenticity! From her early career at JCPenney to leading marketing for global brands like Mercer, Rite Aid, and DailyPay, Jeanniey shares how authenticity, inspiration, and relatability – all central elements in her signature “AIR” framework can transform not only marketing but also internal culture. She reveals how DailyPay's branding became a verb, why HR leaders are natural marketers, and how AI is reshaping creativity, communication, and brand trust. The conversation dives into how AI is reshaping marketing strategy and what it means for trust, creativity, and authenticity. Jeanniey shares her experience testing a fully AI-powered “virtual team,” what she’s learning from it, and why she believes AI replaces inefficiency, not humanity. From the future of demand generation to the return of face-to-face connection, Jeanniey shares invaluable insights for leaders, reminding us that in an AI world, the most powerful brands will be built on emotion, trust, and human connection. Connect with Jeanniey: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeannieywalden/ X: https://x.com/LiftOffShow Website: https://www.liftoffcompany.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Liftoffwithjeanniey Connect with the show: LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/company/hr-payroll-2-0 X: @HRPayroll2_0 @PeteTiliakos @JulieFer_HR BlueSky: @hrpayroll2o.bsky.social YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HRPAYROLL2_0