What makes a media partnership actually work? In this episode, Carly Baker, Media Partnerships Lead at HubSpot Media Network, pulls back the curtain on what makes branded content succeed. With experience spanning talent management, business development, and audience growth across podcasts and YouTube, Carly shares what brands often get wrong when working with creators and how to think beyond vanity metrics. She offers a fresh perspective on how earned media can drive real growth, the underrated power of organic partnerships, and how to build content strategies that resonate in a noisy market.

Key Takeaways:

// How to measure what actually matters in podcast and content partnerships.

// Why putting a human face to your brand is essential for audience connection and content performance.

// The biggest mistakes brands make when working with creators—and how to avoid them from the start.

// How to align partnership goals with outcomes that match your brand's stage and strategy.

// Why video matters in podcasting today, and how to use platforms like YouTube for visibility and discovery.

// How to build better relationships with media partners by treating them like people—not just placement opportunities.

Resources from HubSpot:

The State of Marketing in 2025

The Power of Partnerships + Innovation

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In this solo episode, I’m pulling back the curtain on the unexpected journey that’s brought me to where I am today—from pitching myself into my first full-time role, taking big risks in new cities, and leading teams at a young age, to launching a business and growing a podcast that changed everything. I’m sharing the biggest lessons I’ve learned along the way: why nothing is permanent, how to pitch yourself (even when you’re scared), the value of taking risks early, and how to constantly reassess what you actually want. If you’re feeling stuck, uncertain, or just in need of some honest perspective on what it means to build a fulfilling, self-made career—this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways:

// Why taking risks early in your career can pay off in unexpected ways

// The power of pitching yourself—and how to do it with confidence

// What it really means to grow your skills outside of a traditional career path

// How to build lasting relationships without expecting instant returns

// Why self-awareness and reflection should be part of your career strategy

// How side projects (like a podcast!) can turn into major career opportunities

// How to own your story—even when it’s still being written

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Say hi! DM me on Instagram and let us know what content you want to hear on the show - I can't wait to hear from you! Please also consider rating the show and leaving a review, as that helps us tremendously as we move forward in this Marketing Happy Hour journey and create more content for all of you. ⁠

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In this episode, I sit down with Lucas Kraft, co-founder of Wonderbelly, the fastest-growing OTC digestive brand of 2024—known for its bold branding and clean, effective products. Lucas shares how his deeply personal recovery journey from an eating disorder led to the creation of a brand that’s rewriting the rules of wellness. We talk about what it really takes to build an authentic identity, how to craft a voice that stands out in a saturated market, and what marketers and founders need to know about branding with purpose in a regulated space.

Key Takeaways:

// The origin story behind Wonderbelly—and how personal healing can spark powerful innovation

// Why your brand voice is your first (and most important) impression

// The key elements of crafting a bold and authentic identity that connects with today’s consumer

// How to create content that educates and entertains in a regulated industry

// Why standing for something real gives your brand staying power

// How to balance storytelling with compliance and still be creative

// Lucas’ advice for launching a disruptive brand in 2025 and beyond

Connect with Lucas: LinkedIn

Learn more about Wonderbelly: Website | LinkedIn

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Say hi! DM me on Instagram and let us know what content you want to hear on the show - I can't wait to hear from you! Please also consider rating the show and leaving a review, as that helps us tremendously as we move forward in this Marketing Happy Hour journey and create more content for all of you. ⁠

Join our FREE Open Jobs group on LinkedIn: ⁠Join now⁠

Get the latest from MHH, straight to your inbox: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our email list!⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

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