Humans & Brands

This week's episode is a little different. Host Lauren Douglass sits down with Lacey Tucker, whose TikTok series documenting her marriage unraveling has captivated millions. What started as a relationship that seemed picture-perfect slowly turned into something much darker: a pattern of lies, manipulation, financial abuse, and moments that were not just confusing, but dangerous. Lacey shares how she met her ex-husband, moved to California, and over time found herself trapped in a web of deception. Hidden children, missing inheritance money, tens of thousands in debt in her name, police warrants. And through it all, the incremental erosion of her reality, her independence, and her sense of self. But this isn't just a story about what happened. It's about what comes after. How do you start to trust yourself again when someone has manipulated you for years? How do you rebuild when you're left with nothing but debt, two young children, and no resources? And how do you find the courage to share your story publicly when you're still in the middle of it? If you've ever been in a situation where you doubted yourself, stayed longer than you should have, or felt like you were losing your grip on reality, this conversation will resonate. This is Lacey's story: raw, honest, and still unfolding.

You're not building a business, you're solving a problem.  Shiv Gupta is the Founder and CEO of U of Digital, and he's spent the last eight years learning that lesson the hard way. This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Shiv to talk about business fundamentals, staying focused when you want to do everything, and why the best companies lead with problems, not solutions.  They dig into what it takes to go from corporate to entrepreneur, why revenue is a hell of a drug, and how to avoid getting too high or too low when things are constantly changing. Shiv opens up about the moment he got laid off and decided to start his own thing, the mistake he made at 25 trying to start a company, and why laser focus on one specific problem is how you build credibility from scratch. This is a conversation about consistency, problem solving, fluidity, and showing up every day...even when you lose a client or things feel personal. If you're building a business, thinking about starting one, or just want to hear about what it takes to build one, this one's for you.

The best salespeople aren't selling at all, they're listening. Lucy Markowitz is the SVP and GM of US Marketplace at Vistar Media, and she's spent her career mastering the art of getting people on board. This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Lucy to talk about what separates a great seller from an average one, and it's not tactics or scripts. It's how you show up, how you listen, and how you help people feel bought into something rather than pushed. They dig into why building relationships overrise closing transactions, how to approach sales from a place of genuine belief, and why being present in every aspect of your life is what matters most.  Lucy talks about her transition from finance to ad tech, why she only sells things she believes in, and drops some great advice for young women trying to navigate their careers. This is a conversation about chemistry, energy, and creating symbiosis in your business and your life. If you're building something, leading a team, or just trying to get better at communicating your vision, this one's for you.

It takes so much ego to start a business, and then you have to let go of all of it to actually build one. Anda Gansca is the CEO of Knotch, and she's spent the last 10 years building a company while simultaneously breaking down every assumption she had about what it takes to succeed. This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Anda for a conversation that goes beyond the typical founder story and into something deeper: spirituality and capitalism, win-win business models, and why the zero-sum game mentality just isn't that interesting anymore. They talk about the shift from founder to CEO, why taking two days a week to think is part of the job, and how becoming a mom forced Anda into her own dark closets, which ultimately made her a better leader. Anda opens up about the haunted forest within, why companies don't fail (people give up), and what it means to build something durable when everyone else is focused on the flip. This is a conversation about patience, clarity, and building businesses that are genuinely good for employees, customers, and stakeholders, without losing ambition or rigor. If you believe business can be serious and human, ambitious and thoughtful, you're going to love this one.

The best leaders aren't the ones with all the answers, they're the ones willing to ask more questions. Alena DeSalvo didn't set out to work in media; she kind of stumbled into it. Now, as SVP and Head of Marketing at Sightly, she's figuring out leadership, growth, and what it means to build something in real time. This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Alena to talk about what's driving her right now; not the polished highlight reel, but the actual messy middle of building a career. They get into how her psychology background shapes the way she thinks about marketing and what she had to unlearn about being a young woman in business (hint: it involves exclamation points, high heels, and firm handshakes). Alena opens up about advocating for yourself when no one's going to tap you on the shoulder, why handwritten notes still matter more than AI transcripts, and her hot take on AI-generated copy that needs to stop. This is a conversation about asking more questions, leaning into what you don't know, and learning to let go of control. It's a great reminder that not every career path is planned - sometimes you just stumble into the right industry and build from there. If you're early in your career, still figuring out how you want to lead, or just trying to find your footing, this one's for you.

What do you learn about yourself when you're alone in the mountains for a month with no plan and no one to impress? John Starkweather is the VP of Advertising at AT&T, but this conversation isn't really about advertising. It's about what happens when you get quiet enough to actually hear yourself, and what changes when you stop being so rigid about everything. This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with John to talk about the breakthroughs that only come from long stretches in nature, why being flexible might be the hardest thing to learn, and what he realized about himself when his plan went completely off the rails. They get into the tension between AI and humanity, why real connections still matter, and how John's thinking about leadership shifted after he stopped trying to make everyone conform to him. John opens up about being his own worst enemy, what it means to actually listen, and why he introduces himself as a dad first, not by his job title. This is a conversation about slowing down, letting go of control, and figuring out what you actually want to leave behind.

Rachel Goldflam is building something from scratch, and she's doing it in a category that doesn't quite exist yet. As CMO of Sneex, a hybrid sneaker-heel brand, Rachel is figuring out how to normalize a product people have never seen before, get it on enough feet to reach a tipping point, and do it all with a scrappy team of four. This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Rachel to talk about what it's really like to work at a founder-led startup after years at established fashion brands like Veronica Beard and Spanx. They dig into why fashion isn't vapid, how Rachel unlearned the rigid career rules she grew up with, and the feedback that changed everything when she was 22 and thought she had all the answers. Rachel opens up about balancing motherhood with building a brand, why enthusiasm beats credentials every time, and what she learned from taking a risk she thought she wasn't "allowed" to take. This is a conversation about scrappy ambition, learning what you don't want, and why sometimes the best move is the one that doesn't follow the rules.

Not all pivots are about moving up, some are about moving on. Dave Kersey is the Global Head of Media at SharkNinja, and his journey here includes a wrong phone number that changed everything, switching from architecture to media on a hunch, and learning the hard way when to walk away. This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Dave to talk about career pivots, unexpected turns, and why he didn't leave a toxic work environment sooner.  Dave opens up about staying curious, building trust by being authentic all the time, and why no one cares about your career more than you do. This is a conversation about resilience, self-awareness, and learning when to protect your own worth.

Sunni Hickman spent 20 years working with some of the biggest brands in the world: Dollywood, the Harlem Globetrotters, amongst others, before stepping into what she calls her "desert season."  A brand strategist and connector, she now has her own company, B. Sunni Hickman, where she helps organizations and audiences find their voice, own their story, and ignite growth. This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Sunni to dig into what it's really like to start your own business and brand after years of corporate life. Sunni unpacks how she stopped hiding behind her work and started owning it, and how she's redefining success on her own terms. They dig into why women hide behind their work instead of claiming it, how Sunni's retraining herself to say "I did that," and why she believes AI will never replace marketers because it doesn't have a heartbeat.  This is a conversation about resilience, self-worth, and what happens when you finally let people see you, not just your work.

This week on Humans & Brands, we're doing something a little different and flipping the script as Courtney Johnson interviews our host Lauren Douglass on Courtney's podcast, Slay the Gatekeeper. This one's all about cheat codes. Lauren shares the cheat codes that have shaped how she shows up, builds, and creates, from reframing fear into courage, to using intuition as a business tool. The women dig into why your purpose doesn't have to stay static, how thinking like a kid unlocks creativity, and what it really takes to build a personal brand that opens doors. This crossover episode unpacks the messy parts of entrepreneurship, the power of vulnerability, and why sometimes the best move is to just start. Let's get into it. 

Am I living or am I just existing? That's the question that hit Eleni McCready at a funeral three years ago, and it changed the course of her life.  This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Eleni McCready, Partner and Chief Marketing Officer at PWRHOUSE Collective, who recently left the corporate world after 20 years to leap into consulting. We talk about the funeral that changed her life, what she calls her "midlife awakening," and how she found the guts to leave a stable job without knowing exactly what came next.  Eleni shares the exercise that helped her realize what really mattered, what it's like to navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship, and the importantance of the spiderweb of connection. If you've ever wondered whether it's time to make a leap, felt stuck in the day-to-day grind, or questioned what legacy you want to leave behind, this conversation is your reminder that the second half of your career can look however you want it to.

What does it take to turn down a full-time offer at one of the biggest beauty brands right out of college to start your own company? This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Brittany Lo, founder and CEO of Beia Beauty and Beautini, a clean beauty brand creating lifestyle skincare that keeps you clean and confident throughout the day. Brittany gets honest about what it takes to build a beauty brand at 22, how her first company became the stepping stone to building the brand she'd dreamed about since second grade, and why passion that keeps you up at night matters more than confidence. We talk about why being naive can be a blessing, learning to hear "no" over and over again, and why overnight success stories on TikTok don't show you the real work. If you've ever had an idea you can't stop thinking about but don't know where to start, this conversation will remind you that sometimes you have to be a little crazy and figure it out as you go.

What does it mean to keep the human at the center of everything you do? Host Lauren Douglass sits down with Heather Bollinger, Chief Revenue Officer at Vurvey Labs, an AI company that's built on a simple but powerful idea: AI should be powered by people, not replace them. Heather's path is anything but linear: from anti–human trafficking work overseas in her 20s, to leading revenue at an AI company, she’s built her career on empathy, grit, and keeping the human at the center of everything. She gets real about her mantra "you can do hard things," why resilience means showing up even when you don't want to, and the crooked paths we all navigate. This one's a grounded, inspiring listen for anyone navigating growth, AI, or just life itself. Let's get into it. 

From Gen Z to AI, Racine Levy breaks down what it really takes to stay human in modern marketing. This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Racine Levy, marketer, connector, and self-proclaimed “cringe enthusiast”, for a sharp, funny, and real conversation about what it means to be human at work. Racine shares how confidence, curiosity, and a strong network have shaped her career, why “cringe” can actually be a superpower, and how trusting your gut often beats chasing ROI. They dive into Gen Z, AI, burnout, and the lost art of real human connection, all with Racine’s signature humor and candor. Tune in this week for a conversation all about gut instincts, good marketing, and the power of showing up as yourself. Light, smart, and worth every minute of your commute. Let's get into it. 

What happens when you refuse to let your past define your future? This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Troy Alexander, the founder and CEO of T363 Skin and a motivational speaker whose story is pretty extraordinary. Troy went from a two-year prison sentence to building a business and a life rooted in unwavering self-belief. In this conversation, Troy shares the four principles that guide everything he does, why mental strength matters more than anything else, and the daily practices that keep him pushing forward, plus his incredible journey to Founder & CEO.  His story will challenge you to rethink what's possible and remind you that even when the world doesn't have your back, you can still have your own. This is one you don't want to miss.

From perfume labs to Glamsquad’s CMO chair, Simona Gaudio shares how detours, setbacks, and self-belief built her nonlinear career. This week on Humans & Brands, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Simona Gaudio, CMO of Glamsquad, for an honest conversation about leadership, career detours, and staying kind in a business that often rewards the opposite.   Simona shares how she went from working in a perfume lab to leading marketing at one of the most recognizable beauty brands, all while navigating the pandemic, a layoff, and a pregnancy at the same time. She opens up about what it means to rebuild from scratch, why every “no” isn’t the end, and how relationships (and not résumés) end up carrying you through the toughest seasons of your career. If you’ve ever felt behind, stuck, or unsure of your next move, this one’s a reminder that there’s no straight line to success.

This week we're flipping the script. Instead of hosting, Lauren joins Valerie Vespa and Matt Wurst on The Snarketing Podcast, and the conversation is too good not to share. We touch on some of Lauren's favorite hottakes: why B2B marketing is so bad right now, why most corporate brands are failing to break through the noise, and why the human touch is already more important than ever in an AI-centered world. We also talk about the sea of sameness in B2B, how to turn your sales team into thought leaders, and what she wishes every CEO understood about marketing. If you've attended a conference that felt pointless or wondered why B2B marketing feels so disconnected from actual humans, this conversation will resonate. It's snarky, it's honest, and it's packed with tactical advice for anyone trying to cut through the noise. There are a lot of hot topics to cover in this episode, so let's get into it.

This ones for the dreamers who are all about rejecting the traditional path. What happens when you build a company from a calling instead of a business plan? Maria Sipka, Co-Founder and EVP of Brand Strategy at Linqia, shares one of the most profound conversations about entrepreneurship you'll hear. From a 10-day silent Vipassana retreat that told her to leave everything behind, to spending two years traveling the world discovering her purpose, Maria's path has been anything but traditional. We talk about why she believes we're living in a Renaissance moment, how marketers hold the key to unlocking human emotion, and why it took five years instead of one to build what she thought would be a quick startup. Maria gets real about the power of surrender over control, how choosing a co-founder is like choosing a life partner, and her guiding principle: "It's the silence between the notes that makes the music." This episode is for the dreamers, builders, and believers who know that business can be strategy and spreadsheets, but also energy, intuition, and a little magic from the universe.

What does it really mean to be daring? This week we explore taking big swings and stepping into opportunities that feel scary but could change everything. Host Lauren Douglass sits down with Jennifer Peabody, President of Havas Edge, who knows exactly what this looks like. Jennifer made the bold decision to take a job three levels below her previous role and cut her salary by two-thirds, and it became the best decision of her life. She gets real about her 23-year journey at the same company, being the only woman in the C-suite, why she keeps a "remember who you are" note on her phone, and how emotional resilience became her superpower.  If you've ever wondered whether to take that scary leap or felt like the only one in the room, this conversation will remind you that confidence is a muscle you can build, and sometimes the boldest moves are the ones that don't make sense on paper.

Growing up with big dreams written on a whiteboard (own Manchester United, start a media company, buy a yacht), Michelle Turnbull Reeves, three-time founder and Founder & CEO of Zipline AI, meant writing her own rules from day one. From a small suburb in Brisbane to building multiple successful companies, Michelle's story is about the power of beautiful naivety and never waiting for permission. Host Lauren Douglass sits down with Michelle to talk about how being an outsider became her superpower, why she's an "annoying optimist", and her mantra borrowed from Nike's Phil Knight. We unpack why waiting for permission is just wasting time and how to approach every door like it's open. If you're brave enough to articulate an idea, you're brave enough to take the next step. This conversation will leave you questioning what you're waiting for and remind you that sometimes the best thing about not fitting in is the freedom to create your own path.

Many careers follow a straight line. Evin Shutt, CEO and Partner of 72andSunny, took the opposite approach. From middle school teacher to the first employee (and now CEO & Partner!) at one of the most creative agencies in the world, her story is about having the courage to pivot when something doesn't feel right. Host Lauren Douglass sits down with Evin to explore her "pendulum" approach to work-life balance, what 94% of C-suite women have in common, and how Evin realized she was chasing what she thought she should do instead of what made her happy. Evin gets real about sitting with discomfort, optimism as a core value, and why women's sports are having their moment. At the core: be patient, it's okay to start over, and sometimes the best decisions don't make sense on paper. Let's get into it. 

What happens when you refuse to let corporate politics kill your creativity? This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Drew Train, Co-Founder and CEO of Oberland, who left it behind to start his own shop, and hasn't looked back since. Drew gets brutally honest about why independence matters and the creative process that doesn't happen at a desk. He doesn't hold back on what's broken in advertising - from AI copy flooding LinkedIn, to holding companies strip-mining creative agencies for media margins. His take on independence isn't just about business freedom; it's about having the guts to say what needs to be said when everyone else is staying quiet. If you're tired of sanitized takes on the creative industry, this conversation delivers.

What happens when you stop fighting who you are and start using it as your superpower? Tune in with Lauren Douglass this week as she interviews Karen Riley-Grant, Chief Marketing Officer of Vuori, to unpack this. From starting on the Gap sales floor in Daytona Beach to leading marketing at one of the biggest apparel brands, Karen's journey is proof that your authentic self is your biggest asset. We talk about her obsession with staying close to customers, why she had to accept that she just doesn't do "slow," and how being told to dial it down early in her career almost made her lose what makes her great. Karen gets real about the failures that shaped her, why she takes strategic pit stops instead of changing her natural speed, and how to stay connected to your gut in a data-driven world. If you've ever been told you're "too much," this one's for you. 

In a world increasingly going digital and looking towards AI, why are in-person experiences more powerful than ever? Carley Faircloth-Kilmurray, Global CMO at Spiro, argues that IRL experience aren't just fun events to attend - they're business critical. Hosted by Lauren Douglass, they talk about why leaders are quick to cut experiential budgets (hint: measuring ROI wrong), how AI has made human connection more valuable, and what most people get completely wrong about events. Carley shares her "why not" philosophy and why she believes live experiences are the secret weapon brands are undervaluing.  If you've ever wondered whether that company event is worth it, or you're curious about the real ROI of human connection, this one's essential.

What's it really like to be president of one of the biggest agencies in the world? Melissa Levy, President of Digitas, pulls back the curtain on her 20-year journey from finance to the C-suite. In this conversation, Melissa gets real about the myth of work-life balance (spoiler: doesn't exist), why she compartmentalizes everything, and her "flush it and move forward" philosophy that's gotten her through two decades in this chaotic industry. Together with host Lauren Douglass, they talk about why she wishes she'd been more assertive earlier in her career, the advice she gives to young women starting off in their career, and why in-person connections are more critical than ever in our remote world. If you've ever wondered how to stay grounded in an industry that never slows down, or you're looking for straight talk about navigating leadership as a woman, this one's worth your time.

What happens when you decide to stop wearing a corporate mask and just be yourself at work? On this episode, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Nadalie Dias, CMO of Hearts & Science, to find out. After years of being told to be less direct and less dominant, Nadalie hit a breaking point and chose authenticity over acceptance. We talk about the gendered feedback that shaped her career, why she values honor above all else, and her hot take on marketing jargon.  This isn't your typical career advice. It's a real conversation about what it costs to conform and what you gain when you stop trying to be everyone's cup of tea. If you've ever felt like you're performing a version of yourself at work, this one's for you. By the way! You might have noticed the intro to this one is a bit different. We have rebranded! We wanted to find something closer to what the podcast is actually about: humans, brands, & the humans behind the brands. 

Host Lauren Douglass sits down with Susan Howe, CEO of Weber Shandwick, for a conversation about leadership, growth, and the power of knowing yourself. Susan shares how she built her career by leaning into curiosity, collaboration, and continuous learning. She talks about what it means to lead with intention, why positive energy is a choice she makes every day, and how she stays grounded while leading one of the top global agencies. They also dig into the realities women still face in leadership, and why it’s important to own your space and speak up about your work. If you’re thinking about your next move, reflecting on how you lead, or just need a reminder that it’s okay to be a work in progress, this one’s for you. Let's get into it. 

In this episode, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Kate Rush Sheehy, Chief Strategy Officer at GSD&M, for a conversation about the power of curiosity, the misunderstood narrative around women in leadership, and why building brands people care about starts with empathy. Kate shares the personal story behind her love for advertising, what motivates her as a strategist, and how growing up with limited access to top brands shaped her fascination with them. She talks about trusting your gut in a data-driven world, leading with compassion, and why AI should raise the ceiling, not just the floor, on creativity. From flipping the script on ageism in the workplace, to helping major brands like Southwest Airlines get unstuck, Kate offers a refreshingly human take on what it means to lead with purpose in an ever-changing industry. If you're looking for inspiration on career pivots, leadership with heart, or just want a reason to fall in love with strategy again, this one’s for you. Let's get into it. 

In this special bonus episode of Humans & Brands, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Adrianne del Sol, VP, Digital Commerce + Omnichannel Marketing at Kimberly-Clark, and Kerel Cooper, CMO of GumGum, for a refreshingly human conversation about marketing, meaning, and how we show up in work and life. We unpack what separates great marketing from forgettable, why the human element often gets lost in campaigns, and what it means to lead with empathy in today's changing landscape. Adrianne and Kerel also share their favorite projects and lessons that have stuck with them along the way, long after the work was done. If you've ever questioned the idea of the linear career path or wondered how to lead with empathy in a metrics-driven world, this episode is for you.

In this episode of Humans & Brands, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Sarah Leinberger, Vice President, Head of Marketing at Yoobi, for a conversation about bold pivots, people-first leadership, and the quiet power of being inherently good. Sarah opens up about her recent leap from a large corporate environment to a smaller, mission-driven company and how she’s always followed energy over titles when making career moves. She shares how fear signals growth, why curiosity rooted in empathy is her leadership superpower, and the value of choosing environments where you’re celebrated, not just tolerated. Refreshingly honest and grounded, if you've ever wondered what it really means to prioritize who you are over what you do, this one’s for you. Let's get into it. 

On this episode, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Samantha Avivi, Chief Marketing Officer of Bayer, to talk about leadership, purpose, and knowing when to pivot. Samantha, a seasoned marketing leader with an iconic advertising legacy in her DNA, shares how curiosity, values, and courage have shaped her journey and helped navigate a purpose-driven career in brand leadership. She reflects on the power of prioritization, the myth of “doing it all,” and how she learned to stop and truly savor milestones. If you’re navigating big decisions, trying to lead with more intention, or simply want to hear from someone who’s walked the walk, this one’s for you. Let's get into it. 

Host Lauren Douglass sits down with Jessica Ling, EVP of Advertising at American Express, for a conversation about what makes a great leader and how discomfort often signals the right next step. Jess shares how leading with heart, consistency, and trust has shaped her career, and reflects on the challenges of managing people. They talk about the importance of playing the long game, staying grounded in who you are, and why brands should stop chasing trends and instead double down on what they actually stand for. Whether you're stepping into a new role, building something of your own, or just trying to lead a little bit better every day, you're in the right place. Let's get into it.

In this special episode of Humans & Brands, Lauren Douglass sits down with long-term friend Shannon Pruitt, Global Chief Marketing Officer at Stagwell, and powerhouse communicator, author, and Founder & CEO of Digital and Savvy, Maha Abouelenein, to unpack one of the most transformational mindset shifts we can make: self-reliance. Maha shares the inspiration behind her book, The Seven Rules of Self-Reliance, and how these principles can help anyone stop waiting for permission and start building the life they want. From building your personal brand to ditching the “waiter” mindset (think: stop waiting, start doing), Maha shares how to invest in yourself and take control of your future. The three women also unpack the challenges of speaking up as a woman, navigating imposter syndrome, and getting out of your own way to actually move forward. Whether you’ve ever felt stuck, unseen, or like you’re just waiting for your next opportunity, this episode is your invitation to stop waiting and start doing. Link to Maha's book: 7 Rules of Self-Reliance

In this episode, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Blake Corum, Los Angeles Rams running back, former University of Michigan standout, and co-founder of Peak NIL. Blake opens up about his journey from small-town roots to college football fame and how the rise of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) changed his life. They dive into how Blake turned brand deals into long-term investments, why he co-founded a platform to empower other athletes, and how his upbringing and family shaped his values.  Tune in for a quick convo about purpose, financial empowerment, and what it means to give back.

This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Raj Register, CMO of Stellantis (the auto giant behind Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and more) for a conversation that’s equal parts leadership masterclass and personal reflection. Raj opens up about her unexpected journey from mechanical engineer to marketing exec, how a stint in Istanbul helped spark her pivot, and why building a career you love means trusting your instincts and doing the hard work. She shares what it’s like leading six distinct brands under one roof, how she creates space for younger voices on her team, and why her mantra these days is: “Not every ball is glass, some can bounce.” It’s one of those episodes that makes you want to bet on yourself a little more. Let’s get into it.

This week, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Kristine Segrist, Global Head of Consumer Marketing at Canva, to chat about leadership, creativity, and how to build teams that aren’t afraid to take big risks. But beyond the strategy and marketing genius, Kristine opens up about the myth of balance: how being a leader and a mother means learning to lean into one area at a time and accepting that there will always be some compromises. We also dive into the Enneagram, a personality framework that Kristine and Lauren both use to understand themselves and their teams better. Plus, Kristine gives us a peek behind the curtain at Canva’s innovative social media strategy and how they connect with their community in a fun, authentic way. This conversation isn’t just for marketers. Whether you're in leadership, parenting, or personal growth, Kristine's insights will inspire you to lead with authenticity, embrace your strengths, and accept the ebbs and flows of life.

What do coolers, rideshares, and green powders have in common? In this episode of Humans & Brands, Lauren Douglass sits down with Aussie marketing powerhouse Paulie Dery, CMO of AG1 and former brand whisperer at YETI and Uber. With his signature laid-back vibe and razor-sharp insight, Paulie makes a compelling case that creativity isn’t just nice to have, it’s the lifeblood of brand-building and business success. From winning over left-brained execs with right-brained ideas to treating vibe as a legitimate KPI, this episode is packed with wisdom for marketers, creatives, and anyone tired of playing it safe. Paulie shares why boring brands need big wallets, how to arm customers to defend their purchases, and how to not be mid.  Tune in for a conversation that proves great storytelling is not fluff, it's strategy. Let's get into it. 

This one’s for the creators, the founders, the quiet rebels, and anyone who's ever hesitated to hit "post." What if the fear of being “cringe” is really just the fear of being seen? In this episode of Humans & Brands, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Courtney Johnson, personal brand strategist and unapologetic truth-teller, to explore how we can all move past the fear of judgment and show up more boldly and honestly, online and in life. Courtney breaks down why personal branding isn’t just for influencers, how to climb “Cringe Mountain,” and why your story: messy, weird, vulnerable, is actually a superpower. From the psychology of confidence to navigating layoffs, algorithms, and spiritual awakenings, this is an open, honest conversation about finding your voice and owning it.  If you’ve ever held back from sharing your truth, doubted your uniqueness, or felt stuck in perfectionism, this episode is your permission to hit post anyway.

What happens when the title you’ve worked your entire career for is suddenly gone? Who are you beyond the job, beyond the success, beyond the identity that’s been wrapped up in what you do? In this deeply personal and thought-provoking chat on Humans & Brands, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Swan Sit, a powerhouse in digital transformation who has led some of the world’s biggest brands. But this episode goes far beyond marketing. Swan opens up about the emotional weight of leadership, the identity crisis that can come with losing a job, and the journey of rediscovering self-worth beyond a title. She shares her own experience of navigating uncertainty, questioning her value, and ultimately emerging stronger, more grounded, and more in control of her future. This is a conversation about growth, change, and stepping into your power, even when you have no idea what comes next. f you’ve ever found yourself at a crossroads, wondering how to pivot or what really matters in the long run, this episode is for you. Let's get into it. 

What makes a brand truly resonate with people? Why do some brands inspire deep loyalty while others struggle to stay relevant? In this episode of Humans & Brands, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Dr. Marcus Collins, a marketing professor, best-selling author, and one of the brightest minds in the world of branding. Dr. Collins takes us on a deep dive into how brands have evolved from simple marks of ownership to powerful identity markers that reflect who we are and what we believe. We explore why the most successful brands go beyond just selling products; they create communities, foster belief systems, and build deep emotional connections with their audience. From his work with Beyoncé and Nike to his cutting-edge theories on culture and branding, Dr. Collins shares how brands can move from being transactional to truly transformational. He also discusses the importance of conviction over convenience and why brands need to take a stand, even if it means losing customers along the way. If you’re curious about how to make your brand not just seen but felt, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.  Link to Dr. Collins' book: For the Culture: The Power Behind What We Buy, What We Do, and Who We Want to Be  

This week, host Lauren Douglass chats with Damaune Journey, Chief Growth Officer at 72andSunny, about his non-linear path to leadership, how his background has shaped his approach to creativity, and why he believes human ingenuity is more important than ever in an AI-driven world. They also dive into why diversity in media and messaging matters, and Damaune’s commitment to ensuring that future generations see positive role models and inclusive narratives in the content they consume. Tune in for a candid conversation that dives into the real stuff: the challenges, the lessons, and the moments that don’t make the highlight reel but shape everything. Let's get into it. 

What does it take to pull off a Super Bowl ad? This week on Humans & Brands, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Vinny Rinaldi, Head of Media & Analytics at Hershey’s, to uncover the strategy, creativity, and chaos behind Reese’s latest big game moment. From meticulous planning to multi-agency collaborations, Vinny reveals the highs and headaches of executing one of the year’s most anticipated marketing plays. But it’s more than just ads. Vinny’s relentless curiosity and passion have fueled his career across agencies, platforms, and at the iconic chocolate brand. Tune in for an energetic deep dive into what makes a campaign truly successful, why integration is key, and how a well-placed Super Bowl spot can send sales skyrocketing overnight. You don’t want to miss this one.

He’s usually the one asking the questions, but this time, we’re turning the tables. On this special crossover episode of Humans & Brands, host Lauren Douglass sits down with the one and only AdTechGod: the anonymous, meme-wielding, insight-dropping voice that’s been shaking up the adtech industry. Known for his hot takes and making ad tech actually interesting, he’s built a massive following while keeping his identity a secret. In this rare role reversal, AdTechGod opens up about why he stays anonymous, whether he’ll ever reveal himself, how B2B marketing lost its edge, and what it takes to make it exciting again. He breaks down the death of traditional PR, the rise of LinkedIn personalities, and the battle between the open web and walled gardens. Plus, he shares his take on why ad tech marketing is so often boring, what brands need to do to stand out. If you follow AdTechGod, you know this is a must-listen. And if you don’t? Well, now’s the time to get on board. Hit play and let’s get into it.

We've got an exciting episode for you today! In this episode of Humans & Brands, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Marissa Solis, SVP of Global Brand and Consumer Marketing at the NFL. From her roots in Mexico to leading brand strategy for one of the most iconic sports leagues, Marissa shares the real story behind her career moves: what it took, what she learned, and what she’d tell her 23-year-old self. They get into risk-taking, vulnerability in leadership, the evolving role of diversity in the league, and the ground-breaking artistry behind this year’s Super Bowl branding. Fresh off the excitement of Super Bowl LIX, don’t miss this insightful conversation on leadership, resilience, and the impact of authentic storytelling in sports and beyond.

In this episode, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Angela Clark, VP of Digital at Patagonia, to explore her journey through the marketing world and how she landed at one of the most iconic brands out there. Angela dives headfirst into the bold, unconventional strategies reshaping the brand’s online presence: from pushing boundaries in e-commerce to redefining customer engagement, she shares how Patagonia is leveraging digital innovation while staying true to its mission-driven ethos. They discuss the challenges of balancing sustainability with scale, the future of ethical retail in a digital-first world, and why breaking the rules might just be the key to lasting impact. Angela covers the importance of steering your own ship, and how finding the right workplace fit is a lot like dating. If you’re looking for inspiration on navigating your career, making bold moves, and working for a company that aligns with your values, this one’s it. Let's get into it. 

In our fourth episode, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Christine Maguire, Global VP of Tripadvisor for an honest, unfiltered conversation about showing up as a woman at work, carving out time for peace, and building a life that works for you. Together they dive into the wins, missteps, and invaluable lessons learned along the way. Christine gets real about leadership, creativity, and the quiet battle with imposter syndrome. It’s an honest, sharp conversation that might just shift how you think about your own path. Let's get into it. 

In the latest episode of Humans & Brands, host Lauren Douglass sits down with Nicole Parlapiano, Chief Marketing Officer at Tubi, to explore the art of risk-taking in marketing leadership. They unpack why great marketing starts with bold leadership, the crucial role risk-taking plays for CMOs today, and how creating a space where teams can experiment, try new things, and even fail leads to the most innovative ideas. Plus, Nicole dishes out advice for young marketers: be patient, trust the process, and know that you’ve got what it takes. No marketing fluff - just smart insights, honest conversation, and a few laughs along the way. If you’re looking to level up in marketing, this one’s worth a listen.  

In our second episode of Humans & Brands, host Lauren Douglass speaks with Natalie Lennox, Member Experience Strategist at Delta, who gets real about prioritizing what matters, saying yes to big opportunities, and embracing the spotlight, even when it’s scary. She shares how 2025 is all about growth, owning your strengths, and making every moment count. Whether you're navigating a career shift, stepping into a new role, or simply looking to make the most of the present, this conversation offers real-world wisdom and practical takeaways to help you move forward with intention and impact, leaving your self-doubt and insecurity behind. Let's get into it. 

In the inaugural episode of Humans & Brands, host Lauren Douglass speaks with Raja Rajamannar, Chief Marketing and Communications Officer at Mastercard, about his ground-breaking career and the future of marketing. Named one of Forbes’ Top 5 Most Influential CMOs, Raja shares his provocative view that "advertising is dead" and explores what this means for marketers today. From AI and emerging tech to Mastercard’s bold spin on passion-fueled marketing, this episode is loaded with fresh takes, unexpected insights, and a look at what’s coming next.  Each week on the podcast, we sit down with a different marketer to uncover the human behind the marketer. The real stories, defining moments, and hard-earned lessons that shaped their journey. Expect honest conversations, sharp insights, and nuggets of marketing wisdom in every episode. Let's get into it. Watch the full video interview with Raja Rajamannar on Youtube here