Tom Riordan, CEO of WordPower, discusses his journey from ad tech to AI and offers insights on how businesses can start using AI tools. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and understanding where you are on the AI journey. Riordan suggests starting with low-hanging fruit use cases like copywriting and analytics. He highlights the power of AI in automating tasks and streamlining workflows. Riordan also mentions the false starts and challenges that businesses may face when adopting AI solutions. Tom discusses the practical use of analytics and AI tools for mid-sized agencies and brands. He emphasizes the importance of understanding data privacy and compliance regulations before using AI platforms. Tom also highlights the value of AI in analyzing complex data sets and generating insights that humans may struggle to uncover. He gives an example of using AI to perform audience cluster analysis on television viewership data. Tom suggests that AI can be used to simplify and streamline tasks, especially with the availability of low-code or no-code AI tools. He also discusses the challenges faced by the marketing and advertising industry, including the need to focus on creating impactful ads and the limitations of measuring campaign success. Tom shares his excitement about the changing landscape of work and the potential for AI to transform industries.

My guest this week is Jeremy Corray, the EVP of Digital Engagement at Coolfire Studios. We discuss the evolution of video content strategies over the past decade, the accessibility and democratization of video production, and the rise of social video platforms like YouTube and TikTok. We touch on the importance of authenticity and storytelling in brand videos, the power of video in humanizing brands and individuals, the need for a comprehensive video strategy, and the value of creating content that educates, entertains, and inspires. Later, we discuss the power of viral videos and the importance of finding a unique voice in marketing. We explore how companies can break through the noise in boring industries and stay relevant. We also touch on the significance of nostalgia in marketing and the need for authentic connections and diverse perspectives. The conversation emphasizes the importance of storytelling and the responsibility of marketers to give back and create meaningful content.

Stacy Bohrer, Vice President of Buyer Development for OpenX, discusses her career in ad tech and the challenges of scaling operations. She emphasizes the importance of servant leadership and creating a safe and authentic work environment. Stacey also addresses the issue of made-for-advertising sites and how OpenX is addressing inventory quality and pricing transparency. She highlights the shift towards real outcomes and the increase in brands engaging directly with OpenX. Stacey also discusses the importance of forming closer relationships between brands and publishers to improve transparency and support the struggling publishing industry. The conversation primarily revolves around the concept of supply path optimization (SPO) and its benefits for publishers. The main theme is the importance of addressability in the open internet and how SPO can help monetize publishers' inventory. The conversation also touches on the role of alternative IDs, integrating with identity solutions, and the need to detangle supply paths. The potential environmental impact of ad calls and the use of AI in analyzing granular reports are discussed. The conversation concludes with a discussion on entrepreneurship, the value of networks like Chief, and the importance of knowing one's value and saying no when necessary.

This week, my guest is Scott Moore, the Founder and CEO of Covalent Partners. In his illustrious career, he has served as the CMO of Best Buy Mobile and Wynn Resorts, as well as an Advisor for several venture capital firms. We explore the definition of innovation and its importance in business. We also delve into the conditions necessary for companies to innovate in a productive and profitable way. The conversation then shifts to the role of leadership in fostering innovation and the need for outside expertise in certain areas. We touch on the significance of brand-to-brand collaborations and how they have evolved over time. Finally, we discuss the shift from a tell-centric marketing approach to one that emphasizes co-creation with customers. The conversation explores the importance of innovative strategic partnerships, innovative projects, and cultivating and supporting innovative people. It discusses the need for a balance between optimization and creativity in marketing strategies. The conversation also touches on the challenges of search and discovery in the digital age and the role of branding in today's market.

Jackie "JP" Phillips, owner and CEO of Unheard Media, shares her journey as a self-made entrepreneur and the importance of mentorship. She emphasizes the need to stop and help others, as it can lead to valuable connections and opportunities. JP discusses the mindset of an entrepreneur, including the ability to handle rejection and overcome fear. She highlights the importance of setting boundaries and saying no to opportunities that don't align with your values. JP also emphasizes the significance of financial literacy, emotional intelligence, and group economics in achieving success as an entrepreneur. In this conversation, JP and Ryan discuss the characteristics of businesses and leaders that are pushing forth innovative solutions and those that have an antiquated view on how to get ahead. They highlight the importance of leading with compassion, love, and promoting collaboration within organizations. They also discuss the challenge of identifying authentic leaders who genuinely care about making a positive impact. They emphasize the significance of community in Jackie's business and life, and the role it plays in teaching and mentoring others. They also touch on the need for change in traditional education and the importance of mindset in achieving success. Jackie shares how she has changed her mind about people and the importance of understanding fear and trauma in individuals. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity, compassion, and a growth mindset in business and personal life.

Carrie Kramer, co-founder of FutureProofd, discusses the challenges and key elements of a successful sales function. She emphasizes the importance of leadership setting relevant goals and metrics that align with the marketplace and the needs of the sales team. She also highlights the significance of authenticity in sales, encouraging salespeople to show up as their true selves and build genuine relationships with clients. Additionally, she discusses the role of automation and AI in sales, suggesting that salespeople should leverage technology to streamline administrative tasks while still maintaining a personal touch. Finally, she emphasizes the importance of collaboration between marketing and sales to create a cohesive story and deliver value to clients.