Impact Stories

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese sits down with Kim Page of Vendtech to explore what leadership looks like in a fast-moving industry where technology, AI, and customer expectations are constantly evolving.Kim shares how trust, adaptability, and human-centered leadership have shaped her approach to marketing and team development through periods of rapid change. From balancing creativity with operational structure to navigating the growing role of AI, she offers a grounded perspective on leading with clarity while staying flexible.You’ll take away:Why trust and team alignment are essential when navigating uncertainty and changeHow AI can support creativity and strategy without replacing human insightWhy adaptability matters more than rigid planning in rapidly evolving industriesHow strong communication and transparency help teams stay grounded during growthWhat it takes to balance innovation, operational structure, and human connectionIf you’re leading teams through growth, digital transformation, or shifting market conditions, this episode offers practical insight on staying adaptable while keeping people at the center of the work.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese sits down with Salvador Ayala, CEO of Atlas Pressure Control, to explore what leadership looks like when you move from a global enterprise into a smaller, fast-growing company where decisions immediately shape the business.After 30 years at SLB (formerly Schlumberger), Salvador made the leap to lead Atlas—bringing a leadership philosophy rooted in continuous learning, strategic thinking, and skill development. He shares how that experience prepared him to step into the CEO role and guide a young company through growth, organizational change, and a rebranding journey.You’ll take away:Why focusing on skills rather than titles prepares leaders for greater responsibilityWhat leaders must unlearn when moving from large enterprises to smaller organizationsHow to evaluate whether you have the right people in the right rolesWhy strategy must be practiced daily through decisions and market awarenessHow rebranding supports a company’s transition from startup to established market playerIf you’re leading a growing company or navigating your own leadership transition, this episode offers practical insight into scaling strategy, talent, and culture at the same time.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese sits down with Christie Hendricks, Director of Marketing & Culture at Abstract Construction, to explore why business development, marketing, and culture aren’t separate functions—they’re one integrated system that shapes brand trust and client experience.With a career built across BD, marketing, and culture, Christie shares how her definition of impact has evolved from “doing more” to building clarity, confidence, and consistency that lasts even when she’s not in the room. From implementing CRM infrastructure to aligning how teams communicate and collaborate, she offers a practical look at how culture shows up in the details—and how it’s felt most by clients.You’ll take away:How BD, marketing, and culture work together to influence decisions, shape reputation, and create trustWhy culture is experienced through client interactions (tone, response time, accountability, problem-solving)—not just values on a wallHow building a CRM and clean data foundation helps leadership shift from reactive decision-making to intentional strategyWhat it really means to drive innovation in a “traditional” industry through consistency and follow-through (not flash)Why confidence comes after action—and how growth accelerates when you stop waiting for permissionIf you’re leading marketing, shaping culture, or building client trust in a people-driven industry, this episode delivers grounded insight and actionable takeaways you can apply immediately.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese sits down with Kathryn Kozody, Director of Marketing & Communications at GDI Ainsworth, to explore how customer insight, team alignment, and modern leadership shape meaningful brand impact across both CPG and B2B industries.With experience spanning entrepreneurship, national brand management, and tech innovation, Kathryn shares how she navigates long sales cycles, legacy brand expectations, and rapid industry shifts—while leading a lean team in one of North America’s largest facility services organizations.You’ll take away:Why customer language is the strongest foundation for brand positioning—and how “true partner” became a defining insight for GDI AinsworthHow to honor a legacy brand without letting the past become an anchor, especially as the company approaches its centennial milestoneThe power of focused, people-first leadership when managing a small team responsible for national impactHow CPG lessons translate into B2B—from scarcity-driven campaigns to understanding what customers really valueWhether you're leading marketing in a legacy organization, shifting into new markets, or trying to unlock the story hidden in your customer insights, this episode delivers grounded perspective and real-world examples that resonate across industries.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese sits down with Brian Hall, President at GDM, to explore what it means to lead in a complex, data-heavy industry that’s going through both a rebirth and an adolescence at the same time.Drawing on 40+ years in energy information management, Brian shares how clarity of purpose, strategy-led decision making, and deeply lived values have guided him through market volatility, industry transformation, and organizational change. From recasting GDM’s vision, mission, and values to building a culture rooted in TRUST, he illustrates how to connect data, decisions, and character in everyday leadership.You’ll take away:How the DIKW model (Data, Information, Knowledge, Wisdom) can guide better decisions and turn raw data into trusted insightWhy revisiting vision, mission, and values with your team—not for them creates alignment, ownership, and a real decision-making compassHow to lead with confidence in uncertainty by trusting your “compass” (strategy, values, and purpose) instead of waiting for perfect clarityWhat an empowering leadership mindset looks like when you choose your response to events, own your decisions, and lead with integrityIf you’re leading in energy, data, or any industry facing transformation, this episode offers grounded, experience-backed insight on strategy, culture, and leadership that endures beyond market cycles.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese chats with Reid Stinson, Senior Marketing & Communications Manager at Neal Brothers Brands and Jonluca Neal, about what it takes to build not one, but two distinct brands in Canada’s competitive CPG landscape.From launching creative brand activations to staying ahead of grocery tech trends, Reid offers a behind-the-scenes look at how his team is reimagining food and beverage marketing, one campaign at a time.Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:How Neal Brothers leveraged a bold Pickleball Canada partnership to drive national awareness through an unexpected cultural moment.Why in-person, experiential marketing is making a powerful comeback, and how Reid measures its impact on brand equity.How curiosity and trendspotting keep both product and distribution arms of the business agile, relevant, and top-of-mind for retailers and consumers alike.Whether you're a brand marketer, a CPG founder, or just curious about what it takes to stand out in-store and on shelf, Reid’s approach is filled with creative, practical insight.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese sits down with Monica Turcotte, Director of Marketing at Ignite Technology, to explore how strategic leadership, clear processes, and a thoughtful approach to AI are helping her team stay grounded, while everything around them accelerates.With experience leading national marketing teams across retail and tech, Monica shares what it takes to scale with intention, align stakeholders, and keep messaging sharp in an industry that evolves by the minute.You’ll take away:How AI can serve as a strategic challenger, not a replacement, for creative and message testingWhy structured internal processes are Monica’s secret to agility and focus in fast-paced environmentsWhat empathetic leadership looks like when you’re managing change, growth, and distributed teamsIf you’re leading a marketing team, rolling out new tools, or trying to keep strategy on track amid shifting priorities, this episode is packed with insight and grounded advice.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese sits down with Kevin Kwan, Director of Marketing and Business Development at Desert Senita Community Health Centers, to unpack how entrepreneurial grit and people-first strategy can create powerful change—even in one of the most complex sectors: healthcare.Drawing from over 15 years as a business owner and coach, Kevin shares how his hands-on approach to leadership, audience research, and direct-response marketing is reshaping how healthcare connects with rural communities.In this episode, we explore:💡 Kevin’s journey from entrepreneur and gym owner to nonprofit marketing leader—and what he brought with him along the way.💡 His process for building trust in healthcare through authentic connection, plain language copy, and community outreach.💡 How deep audience insight and cross-functional accountability led to a 26x ROI campaign that launched a brand-new dental service.Whether you’re in healthcare, nonprofit, or simply passionate about marketing that actually works, Kevin’s perspective will leave you thinking differently about what it takes to lead with impact.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese sits down with Kristina Plank, Marketing Manager at Excel Homes, to explore her dynamic career in real estate and consumer marketing. From navigating the fast-paced real estate industry to spearheading transformative campaigns, Kristina’s journey highlights adaptability, creativity, and leadership.In this episode, we explore:💡 Kristina’s path from hospitality and tourism marketing to leading impactful strategies in the homebuilding industry.💡 How she navigates the challenges of the ever-evolving real estate market, including major disruptions like COVID-19.💡 Her bold approach to brand storytelling, including a highly successful anniversary campaign that redefined Excel Homes’ presence in the market.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese sits down with Kelly Palmer, Communications Manager at Enfinite, to uncover her inspiring journey through diverse industries and her role in advancing sustainability initiatives. From building her career across marketing, branding, and ESG to managing large-scale projects, Kelly’s story is a testament to resilience and creativity.In this episode, we explore:💡 Kelly’s non-linear career path, from beauty and energy to becoming a one-person marketing department at Enfinite.💡 How her personal values drive her passion for authentic marketing and ESG initiatives.💡 Strategies to avoid greenwashing while maintaining transparency and credibility in sustainability efforts.💡 The challenges and rewards of leading major projects, like Enfinite’s comprehensive website redesign.💡 Practical advice for marketing professionals balancing limited resources with ambitious goals.Whether you’re a marketer navigating sustainability, a leader in ESG, or a professional wearing many hats, this episode offers valuable lessons on turning passion into impactful marketing.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese sits down with Darren Contardo, CEO of SP Nutraceuticals, whose career has spanned some of the most dynamic and challenging spaces in marketing. From transforming SlimFast during its turnaround to pioneering brand growth in the cannabis and nutraceutical industries, Darren’s journey is packed with bold moves and innovative strategies.In this episode, we explore:💡 Darren’s unique career path, beginning with his passion for nutrition and marketing and leading to major roles across multiple industries.💡 His approach to revitalizing brand equity and the daring decisions that helped him build brand loyalty with large-scale retailers like Walmart.💡 The importance of “speeder-ship”—acting fast and innovating continually to stay competitive in high-demand markets.💡 How he tailored his strategies to navigate highly regulated environments, from nutraceuticals to cannabis.💡 Darren’s view on leveraging market research and staying tuned to emerging trends to drive impactful brand positioning.Whether you’re a marketing professional, a leader in a high-growth industry, or someone looking to make fearless moves in their career, this episode delivers powerful insights into what it takes to make a lasting impact.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese interviews Saira Hayat, a seasoned marketing professional with an impressive journey from Reckitt to her current role at Haleon (Sensodyne). Saira shares her insights into building a successful marketing career, emphasizing the value of aiming high, learning from fear, and fostering trust in professional relationships.In this episode, we explore:▶ Saira’s career progression and the pivotal moments that shaped her expertise, from working with global brands to managing large-scale media budgets.▶ The value of mentorship, learning styles, and how to stay on top of a fast-evolving marketing landscape.▶ Her commitment to DEI and how creating inclusive environments improves marketing and customer understanding.▶ Insights on taking a career break with intention and how it can lead to renewed focus and growth.▶ Saira’s advice on leveraging AI as an ally in marketing and her take on prioritizing business objectives when managing budgetsWhether you’re a marketing leader, a DEI advocate, or someone curious about career growth in today’s dynamic marketing world, this episode offers invaluable insights. Don’t miss Saira’s inspiring story and her practical advice for making an impact in marketing.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese interviews Jennifer Muller, VP of Sales, Marketing, and Culture at Reid’s Heritage Homes. Jennifer shares her journey from real estate finance to leading marketing and cultural initiatives in the home building industry, highlighting the importance of consistency between internal values and external messaging.In this episode, we explore:▶ Jennifer’s career journey from real estate finance to custom home building and her evolution into a leadership role at Reid’s Heritage Homes▶ The significance of aligning company culture with marketing to ensure authenticity and connection▶ How Reid’s Heritage Homes is navigating tough market conditions by shifting perspectives and focusing on value, even when customers aren’t ready to buy▶ Jennifer’s “plan to fail” approach, which helps her team proactively address challenges and seize opportunities▶ Insights into Reid’s recent rebrand, from a dramatic company-wide unveiling to a unified rollout across over 60 locations, vehicles, and billboardsWhether you’re a marketer, leader, or someone looking for ways to drive impact in challenging times, this episode offers valuable lessons on clarity, resilience, and strategic thinking. Don’t miss Jennifer’s insights on integrating marketing with culture and how to thrive even in uncertain markets.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese sits down with Joanna Thommee, Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Partnerships at PEO Leadership. Joanna shares her diverse career path, from working with shopper marketing organizations to running her own consultancy, and now leading strategic events for top executives.In this episode, we explore:▶ Joanna’s career transition from independent consultant to a leadership role at PEO Leadership▶ The importance of curating memorable experiences in both marketing and event management▶ How her background in shopper marketing influences her current work in executive leadership development▶ The lessons she learned from her father’s journey as a political refugee and how it shaped her approach to perseverance and success▶ Balancing family life with a high-pressure career and the value of letting go of perfectionismWhether you’re a marketer, leader, or someone navigating a career transition, this episode offers key insights into leadership, marketing, and personal growth. Don’t miss Joanna’s inspiring journey and her strategies for creating impactful leadership experiences.

In this episode of Impact Stories, Lisa Genovese sits down with Catrinel Popescu, Brand and Communications Manager at TEC Canada, whose diverse career has spanned everything from art galleries to academia and digital marketing.🌟In this episode, we dive into:▶ How Catrinel’s background in history and political science led her into a flourishing marketing career.▶ The pivotal role that working in art galleries played in shaping her social media and marketing expertise.▶ Insights into navigating traditional and creative marketing environments, and how authenticity and simplicity are key to effective social strategies.Whether you’re a marketing professional, creative, or leader looking for insights on balancing innovation and authenticity, this episode is full of valuable lessons from Catrinel’s journey. Don’t miss this engaging conversation about embracing unexpected opportunities and evolving as a leader across various industries.

In this episode of Impact Stories, host Lisa Genovese sits down with Carla Bragagnolo, Director of Marketing at Chiwis, a rapidly growing CPG brand. Carla’s journey from content marketing at a tech startup to leading impactful strategies at Chiwis offers a wealth of insights into career transitions and building brand success. 🌟In this episode, we explore:▶ Carla’s diverse career spanning B2B tech, retail management at Lululemon, and lifestyle marketing▶ The balance between marketing and sales, and the unique challenges of startup marketing▶ Chiwis’ expansion into the U.S. market and the team’s innovative strategies for growth▶ How Carla’s experience across industries—from PR to content creation—shapes her leadership approach▶ The challenges of balancing digital and in-store marketing, especially in the evolving digital landscape post-iOS 14Whether you’re a marketer, startup enthusiast, or someone looking to grow in a fast-paced industry, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at marketing leadership, career growth, and bold ideas for the future. Don’t miss Carla’s story about navigating career transitions, driving brand growth, and her vision for Chiwis.

In this episode of Impact Stories, Lisa Genovese sits down with Amber Craig, a trailblazing marketing leader whose career has taken her from journalism to founding a successful marketing agency and serving as the chief merchandising officer for a national cannabis brand. 🌟In this episode, we dive into:▶ How Amber transitioned from journalism to marketing, and what inspired her leap into entrepreneurship▶ Her experience navigating the complexities of the cannabis industry, a highly regulated and evolving space▶ How Amber’s personal experiences led her to found a charity supporting trauma survivors, turning inspiration into impactful actionWhether you’re an entrepreneur, marketer, or someone seeking to make a meaningful impact in your career, this episode is packed with lessons on resilience, innovation, and purpose-driven work. Amber’s story will leave you inspired to embrace change, take risks, and drive positive impact. Don’t miss this candid conversation about overcoming challenges and giving back.

Dive into this episode of Impact Stories, where Lisa Genovese chats with Alexia Palmeri, a Toronto based marketing specialist, about the power marketers hold and the responsibility to drive positive change. 🌟In this conversation, we explore:▶ The importance of authenticity in shaping consumer perceptions▶ How marketers influence purchasing decisions and societal values▶ The ethical duty of marketers to act with integrity and do goodJoin us for a candid discussion on how authenticity and integrity can redefine marketing’s impact. Don’t miss Alexia’s insights on navigating today’s trends and staying true to your brand values.

We’re thrilled to share the most recent interview of Impact Stories with the brilliant Cassy Price, hosted by Lisa Genovese 🚀In this episode, we dive into:▶Why biology class can shape your future▶Mentorship and how it supports your career growth▶Where inspiration can come from in this new landscape of marketing