In today’s fast-paced, digital-first world, consumers are no longer tied to a single shopping channel. They might browse on their smartphone, research on their laptop, and make a final purchase in a physical store — or vice versa. This fluid journey between online and offline touchpoints creates both opportunities and challenges for brands. The solution? Omnichannel marketing.

In this episode of Marketing Insights host and career coach Professor Shanita Baraka Akintonde sits down with two powerhouse voices in the field of crisis communication—Quentin Langley, author, professor, and internationally recognized expert in crisis PR, and Kimberly Willis Green, a seasoned communications strategist and writer specializing in crisis response. Together, they unpack the playbook brands must follow when faced with high-stakes moments that could make—or break—their reputation.

From corporate scandals to social media firestorms, Quentin and Kimberly share real-world lessons on how brands can turn adversity into opportunity. With decades of combined expertise, they reveal why some companies emerge stronger from crises while others never recover. This powerful conversation is essential listening for leaders, marketers, and communicators navigating today’s unpredictable landscape.

Class is officially back in session! In this episode of Marketing Insights, host and career coach Shanita Baraka Akintonde sits down with two powerhouse Gen Z voices—Desmond Walker and Alyssa Gail Martin—to decode what brands must learn if they want to connect with the next generation of consumers.

Desmond, a sharp creative strategist with a pulse on cultural shifts, and Alyssa, a dynamic communicator and thought leader for her generation, break down how Gen Z is remixing the rules of marketing. From authentic storytelling to TikTok trends and brand loyalty (or the lack thereof), this conversation is loaded with lessons every marketer needs to hear.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

1. Why authenticity isn’t a buzzword for Gen Z—it’s the baseline.
2. How social media has reshaped the branding process
3. What brands keep getting wrong when trying to market to younger audiences.
4. Fresh strategies for engaging Gen Z in “sticky” ways.

#GenZ #NextGenMarketing #GenZVoices #GenZMarketing #FutureOfMarketing #YouthCulture #MarketingTrends #BrandSchool MarketingInsights #BrandStrategy #DigitalMarketing #MarketingTips #BrandBuilding #MarketingStrategy #Marketing101 #ContentMarketing #AdvertisingLife #ShanitaSpeaksLLC

Marketing campaigns often tap into human emotions to influence decision-making. Two of the most powerful emotions marketers leverage are fear and hope. Fear-based marketing warns consumers about risks and negative consequences, while hope-based marketing inspires them with possibilities and positive outcomes. Both strategies can be effective, but the key is knowing when, where, and how to use them.

This “Executive Perspective on Careers in Marketing” interview features Julie Wolfe, Director of Global Revenue Enablement at Glassdoor. On this episode of the Marketing Insights Podcast Series, Dr. Shane Hunt, President of Cameron University, visits with Julie to discuss marketing plans, data-driven decision-making, and personal branding. Tune in for insights and career advice that will undoubtedly inspire your creative and marketing strategy skills!'

Podcast Transcript

In this episode of Marketing Insights, entitled, “Catch Me if You Can,” we’re flipping the script on career conversations with a special guest who knows exactly what it takes to help professionals—whether you’re just starting out, scaling up, or somewhere in between—land the opportunity of their dreams.

Joining host Shanita Akintonde at the mic is Missy Stella, powerhouse Senior Recruiter at LaSalle Network, who shares real talk on how to position yourself as the catch in today’s competitive job market.

Together, they cover the moves that matter—from resume glow-ups and personal branding power plays to industry intel every ad exec should know. Whether you're a rising star or a seasoned strategist looking for your next big break, this episode will help you sharpen your edge and chart your course.

Get ready to learn how to catch—and keep—the career you've been chasing. #CareerAdvice #CareerStrategies #CareerCoaching #PersonalBranding #MarketingInsights #LaSalleNetwork #ShanitaSpeaksLLC

Podcast Transcript

This “Executive Perspective on Careers in Marketing” interview features Jaime Gaudet, Market Director at Aflac. On this episode of the Marketing Insights Podcast Series, Dr. Shane Hunt of Idaho State University visits with Jaime to discuss segmentation strategy in the insurance industry and the impact of AI and technology advances on AFLAC. Tune in for insights and career advice that will certainly inspire your creative and marketing strategy skills!

Podcast Transcript

In this podcast, Professor Shanita Akintonde discusses how some of the world's biggest brands, including some she's worked for, handle crisis situations. This is a don't-want-to-miss episode for those looking for time-tested tips.

Podcast Transcript