Jeremy Sirota, CEO of Merlin—the world’s largest member-led music rights organization—joins us to share how he’s reshaping leadership, creativity, and decision-making in the digital music age. From throwing out traditional corporate playbooks to asking his team how they'd destroy the company, Jeremy reveals the unconventional frameworks that fuel innovation. We dive into bad ideas, “Cheeto moments,” creative scaffolding, and how curiosity drives real progress—not just in music, but in any industry.

If you're leading a team, building something new, or just trying to think differently, this episode is a must-listen.

Nicole Ayres, co-founder and Chief Creative Officer of Jumpsuit, shares how intuition, storytelling, and a little bit of magic built one of the most unconventional creative agencies in the industry. From coffee shop owner to full-time ministry to selling a tech company spun out of her own agency, Ayres breaks every rule in the book and rewrites better ones. She reveals why the best brands create lore, not just logos, and how spiritual practices like psychedelics and telepathy are shaping the future of conscious business.

This episode is about branding, but also about self-trust, healing, and building a career where you can bring your whole self to the table.

George Tannenbaum has spent decades in advertising, from writing catalog copy at Montgomery Ward to shaping campaigns for IBM and American Express. In this episode, he breaks down what the industry has lost — and what still works. From the power of simplicity and humanity in copy to the danger of sameness in portfolios and agencies, George shares blunt, timeless lessons on how to stand out and stay relevant.

He also dives into personal branding, how to actually get noticed, and why the best creatives start by asking: “What does it do?” Whether you're a copywriter, founder, or just trying to get chosen in a noisy world, this one’s packed with insight, candor, and zero fluff.

High school dropout turned business leader Julian Scadden joins Genius Scouts to share his remarkable journey from digging sewers to leading Nextar Network. With refreshing candor, Julian reveals how being "bad" at his initial trade led to discovering his true leadership gifts. We explore his Health-Family-Community philosophy, the power of mentorship, and why the "Be Dumb Quick" movement transforms careers faster than "fake it till you make it."

Julian's insights on business ethics, defining success beyond wealth, and finding meaning in the trades offer wisdom for entrepreneurs in any industry. A compelling conversation about authenticity, resilience, and redefining what true leadership means in today's business world.

Jason Mitchell, CEO and co-founder of Movement, shares how social media has redefined brand marketing. From ski bum to founder of a 150+ person agency serving Amazon and Nike, Mitchell reveals why marketing should center on social-powered strategy. He breaks down why consumers—not brands—own the story, how Costco wins without social media, and why most marketing teams need a total overhaul.

Legendary adman and author Steve Harrison joins Genius Scouts to explore the art and ethics of advertising. From founding the discipline of brand response to his years at Ogilvy and beyond, Steve shares why creativity must sell—and why most modern marketing has lost its way.

We cover everything from the influence of Howard Gossage and David Ogilvy, to personal branding, purpose-driven advertising, and the eternal battle between salesmanship and showmanship. A must-listen for anyone who believes advertising can be both effective and meaningful.

What can a simple eyepatch teach us about personal branding? In this episode, Justin and Aaron break down one of David Ogilvy’s most iconic advertising case studies—and what it reveals about standing out in a crowded market.

From the power of storytelling to the subtle ways unique traits can enhance brand appeal, they explore how both companies and individuals can craft a consistent, memorable brand in today’s digital landscape. What’s your eyepatch?

Renowned executive coach and business psychologist Miriam Meima has spent decades helping top leaders and entrepreneurs unlock their full potential. In this conversation, she shares her journey from corporate counseling to coaching industry changemakers, revealing the emotional and strategic foundations of great leadership.

From resilience and navigating personal challenges to the dynamics of creative partnerships and the power of service, Miriam offers insights that redefine what it means to lead effectively. Plus, don’t miss a rapid-fire leadership speed round packed with practical takeaways.