Coming About with David Paragamian

In part two of their conversation, David Paragamian and Ray Rosti, President of Klick Media, shift from career lessons to the pressing issues shaping healthcare marketing today. Ray shares his perspective on omnichannel strategy, why it’s less about buzzwords and more about connected data, and how success comes from building step by step rather than chasing a perfect end state.The discussion also explores the role of artificial intelligence. Ray explains why AI should be seen as “assisted intelligence” that augments human creativity, builds speed, and frees teams to focus on higher-value work. He highlights the importance of training AI on unique organizational knowledge rather than relying on generic prompts.They also examine the growing influence of social media and digital voices in healthcare. From celebrity endorsements to micro-influencers, Ray breaks down the risks of fragmentation, the opportunities of trusted one-to-one media, and why understanding generational shifts in media behavior is critical for both consumer and physician marketing.The episode closes with Ray’s reflections on leadership, including:• Treating feedback as a gift• Staying open to fresh ideas from all levels• Viewing change as evolution rather than disruption• The importance of never settling into “we’ve always done it this way” thinking Packed with insights on AI, omnichannel strategy, and the future of healthcare influence, this conversation offers valuable takeaways for leaders navigating change and building stronger, more adaptive teams.

In this first part of the conversation, David Paragamian sits down with Ray Rosti, President of Klick Media at Klick Health, to explore his journey into healthcare marketing and leadership. Ray shares how he went from an uncertain college student to a pioneer in digital media, drawing on influences from his modest upbringing, early jobs in pharma and insurance, and the rise of internet marketing.He reflects on the lessons learned at startups like VerticalNet, his transition into agency life at Razorfish, and the importance of culture, specialization, and consistency in building strong teams. Along the way, Ray explains how curiosity, resilience, and a solutions-focused mindset shaped his career path, leading him to senior leadership roles at Publicis and eventually to Klick Health.Listeners will take away valuable insights on:• Turning early uncertainty into a purposeful career• Why culture and leadership unlock innovation• The shift from “internet marketing” to integrated marketing• How to grow from a specialist into a general manager This episode offers inspiration and practical lessons for anyone navigating career pivots, leadership challenges, or the evolving world of healthcare marketing.

In Part Two, David continues his inspiring conversation with Olga Fleming, CEO of Marina Maher Communications. This episode explores how Olga carried forward the legacy of MMC’s trailblazing founder while ushering in a new era of innovation and cultural transformation.Olga reveals how she led a bold agency rebrand rooted in collaboration and inclusion, explains the balance of human-first values with cutting-edge creativity, and shares how her team thrives across industries from pharma to consumer goods. She also opens up about the lessons she's learned over her career—why perfection is overrated, how vulnerability strengthens leadership, and the importance of retaining humanity in a rapidly evolving, tech-driven world.This is a masterclass in modern leadership, courageous reinvention, and what it means to build impact through empathy.

On this episode of Coming About, David Paragamian sits down with Olga Fleming, the CEO of Marina Maher Communications and one of the most respected voices in the PR and communications industry. Olga shares her unconventional path from aspiring diplomat to award-winning agency leader, opening up about the pivotal moments that shaped her journey.From her early days navigating client service in a pre-digital world to leading a cultural transformation at one of the industry's top firms, Olga explains why putting people first isn't just good leadership—it’s the foundation for sustainable success. She also unpacks how she transitioned from building a boutique agency to taking the reins of a global powerhouse, all while staying true to her mission of human-first, culture-driven impact.This is a conversation about leadership, reinvention, and how the right priorities can change everything.

In the second half of this insightful episode, David continues his conversation with marketing powerhouse Grace Tobin. Grace shares her brave pivot from big pharma to biotech, where she launched their sole product and shaped a new post-pandemic market. You'll hear her experiences leading global billion-dollar brands, managing massive budgets and teams across continents, while making strategic bets on high-impact channels. The conversation explores building strong agency partnerships through mutual respect, healthy debate, physical presence, and treating partners as an extension of your team. As Grace reveals the qualities she'll prioritize in her next role - a people-first culture and visible women leaders - her guidance on being present and savoring each stage offers wisdom for every aspiring leader.

On this episode of Coming About, David sits down with Grace Tobin, a seasoned marketing leader in the pharmaceutical industry. Grace shares her incredible career journey, from unexpectedly falling into pharma right out of college to pivoting across roles in sales, marketing, and global strategy. Despite initial challenges, Grace found mentors who guided her in becoming a "corporate citizen" and mastering the art of gaining consensus across cultures as she advanced into global marketing roles. David and Grace dive deep into her superpower of inspirational leadership that empowers teams to collectively own the vision, as she shares how she navigated brave career pivots to ultimately evolve into a transformational leader. Tune in for an inspiring masterclass from one of pharma's most respected change agents on perseverance, personal growth, and galvanizing teams around a shared mission.

In the second part of the podcast, David turns the conversation to Bill Veltre's personal career highlights, asking him to share an example of work he's particularly proud of in terms of the impact on patients and brands. Bill reflects on a pivotal campaign early in his career that profoundly impacted patient education and brand awareness, delving into the innovative tactics used to cut through the noise. The discussion then shifts to the future of healthcare marketing and the increasingly important role of artificial intelligence. Bill offers his perspectives on how AI is already transforming the industry, from enhancing data analysis and personalization to streamlining content creation, while also addressing ethical considerations and the need for human oversight. 

In this week's episode of Coming About with David Paragamian, Dave sits down with Bill Veltre, the Executive Vice President and Head of Media at Deerfield Agency. Bill is a healthcare marketing veteran with nearly 20 years of experience, including leadership roles at top companies like Publicis, AbbVie, Bristol Myers Squibb, and now Deerfield Agency, where he has overseen major brand launches and strategic planning for prominent clients. Despite initially starting as a first-grade teacher, Bill's passion for healthcare marketing took over, and he has since become a respected authority in the industry. In this candid conversation, Bill shares his insights and learnings from navigating major business transformations throughout his career, delving into the challenges of leading change within large organizations and offering practical strategies for fostering a culture of innovation and adaptability. 

In the second part of this insightful episode, David poses a thought-provoking question, acknowledging the common perception that the highly regulated and scientific nature of the healthcare industry can constrain creativity in advertising and storytelling. Christian Bauman, with his unparalleled creative expertise, offers a refreshing perspective on transcending these perceived limitations by delving into the art of crafting narratives that captivate and inspire audiences while maintaining scientific accuracy. He shares his wisdom on the delicate balance between compelling artistry and intricate medical concepts, providing guidance on weaving engaging stories that resonate emotionally within the healthcare realm. Plus, Christian reveals practical strategies for building thriving cultures within creative agencies, fostering environments that nurture innovation, collaboration, and exceptional work, empowering teams to push boundaries and deliver transformative campaigns that leave a lasting impact.

In the latest episode of Coming About with David Paragamian, the podcast dives deep into the world of visionary creative leadership and its profound impact on the healthcare industry as David welcomes Christian Bauman, a renowned creative force and passionate advocate for health. With an illustrious career spanning over two decades of pushing boundaries and driving transformative change, Christian shares his insights from guiding major campaigns for industry giants like Pfizer and Novartis as the co-founder, president, and CCO of H4B Chelsea, to serving as the Chief Creative Officer of The Bloc, the most awarded independent health creative agency in the U.S. In this engaging conversation, Christian offers invaluable guidance on the power of storytelling, fostering a culture of innovation, cultivating talent, and unleashing the full potential of creative teams to drive meaningful change within organizations, providing listeners with a rare glimpse into the mind of a true industry leader and inspiring them to embrace change, challenge conventions, and pave the way for a better, healthier future.

Dive back in with media trailblazer Dr. Susan Dorfman, President & CEO of CMI Media Group, for more leadership lessons and insights. Having built a culture of constant innovation at CMI, Susan explains how new ideas permeate daily work to drive growth. Hear her strategic vision as Susan details how embracing a challenger mindset fuels their responsive and targeted media plans. It sharpens CMI's competitive edge, putting client needs first in the rapidly evolving healthcare media space. Immerse further into the mind of this catalyst calibrating the next frontier for data-led healthcare marketing.About Dr. Susan Dorfman: Dr. Dorfman is the President & CEO of CMI Media Group, a WPP agency, the leading strategic media planning agency serving the life sciences Industry. She is responsible for the growth and future direction of the agency, with a strategic focus on integrated HCP/consumer data-backed interactions on a global scale. She has immense experience in promotional strategy development, omni-channel/multi-channel media and relationship marketing, customer insights, and media innovation built to reach, engage, and deliver a return on investment. Susan lives and dreams data. Her passion is transforming data into actionable and measurable tactics that ultimately leads to reaching her clients’ audiences down to the individual level.Susan is unstoppable in her quest to provide the most actionable strategies to our clients. She provides vision and leadership to both clients and her staff; she has a knack of concepting and nurturing innovative ideas that turn into viable products that make a real impact in the marketplace.Mentorship and DE&I is a priority to Susan. As part of this, she is the executive sponsor of PLUS+, the LGBTQ ERG, and for Shalom, the Jewish ERG, for CMI Media Group and Compas. She is a Doctor of Health Administration, co-author on the definitive guide to EHRs, and an industry speaker with strong connections to the healthcare and life sciences industries. She has been the recipient of several industry honors including: PharmaVOICE 100, PM360 ELITE, HBA Rising Star, MM+M Innovation Catalyst, the Campaign 40 Over 40 Award, MM+M Pinnacle Award and the Campaign Female Frontier Award.

David welcomes Dr. Susan Dorfman, the strategic leader behind CMI Media Group's success as the #1 media planning agency for the life sciences. Tune in for an illuminating discussion with this innovator, who is guiding CMI's global healthcare clients by pioneering data-driven approaches. Recognized for excellence, Susan brings over 20 years of spearheading targeted, measurable strategies that engage specific audiences. Her passion is transforming data into tactics that reach individuals. An unstoppable visionary, she nurtures ideas into products that impact the marketplace. Hear key moments that defined her path to CEO. Susan lives data—now dive into the mind of a media maverick.About Dr. Susan Dorfman: Dr. Dorfman is the President & CEO of CMI Media Group, a WPP agency, the leading strategic media planning agency serving the life sciences Industry. She is responsible for the growth and future direction of the agency, with a strategic focus on integrated HCP/consumer data-backed interactions on a global scale. She has immense experience in promotional strategy development, omni-channel/multi-channel media and relationship marketing, customer insights, and media innovation built to reach, engage, and deliver a return on investment. Susan lives and dreams data. Her passion is transforming data into actionable and measurable tactics that ultimately leads to reaching her clients’ audiences down to the individual level.Susan is unstoppable in her quest to provide the most actionable strategies to our clients. She provides vision and leadership to both clients and her staff; she has a knack of concepting and nurturing innovative ideas that turn into viable products that make a real impact in the marketplace.Mentorship and DE&I is a priority to Susan. As part of this, she is the executive sponsor of PLUS+, the LGBTQ ERG, and for Shalom, the Jewish ERG, for CMI Media Group and Compas. She is a Doctor of Health Administration, co-author on the definitive guide to EHRs, and an industry speaker with strong connections to the healthcare and life sciences industries. She has been the recipient of several industry honors including: PharmaVOICE 100, PM360 ELITE, HBA Rising Star, MM+M Innovation Catalyst, the Campaign 40 Over 40 Award, MM+M Pinnacle Award and the Campaign Female Frontier Award.

In part two of their discussion, Risa takes a moment to express gratitude for the incredible path she has traversed across media, marketing, and pharmaceutical industries. From leveraging emerging technologies to guiding top brands, she has much to be thankful for. The discussion also turns to Risa's most recent pivotal move - the brave decision to step away from a major company and launch her own company. David asks about the inspiration behind this courageous career shift and the idea of starting an independent venture. Risa explains how a meaningful Bruce Springsteen lyric led her to the name of her new company. She expands on how, after years of trailblazing digital transformation for major corporations, she felt drawn toward forging her direction and channeling her expertise into a more entrepreneurial pursuit. Tune in to hear Risa elaborate on weighing the decision to leave behind a stable leadership position to embrace the uncertainty and rewards of start-up life. She'll detail the key factors and motivations that guided her to take this latest leap of faith in what has been a truly remarkable career journey spanning the frontiers of marketing and pharmaceutical technology innovations.

On this week's episode of "Coming About," David speaks with Risa Wexler to discuss the key transformational moments that have led her to become a pioneer and leader in the world of media, technology, and digital transformation. With over 20 years of experience across both agencies and leading CPG and pharma companies like Pfizer, Risa has not only witnessed emerging technologies and trends come and go but has also learned to distinguish lasting game-changers from passing fads. Her expertise spans the full gamut of the consumer product and pharmaceutical industries; she knows their ins and outs as well as the path forward. Now, Risa looks forward to sharing her wealth of knowledge and infectious enthusiasm with others. Join David and Risa as they reflect on the critical career decisions and changes that have defined her path, from the small pivotal moments to the big, brave choices, as well as where the industry is heading next. Risa will impart invaluable lessons learned over her pioneering career at the forefront of digital transformation.

In the episode's second half, Kathleen provides rare insight into her role, advising the CFO and leading operations at Novo Nordisk. After years of driving marketing innovation, she took on the challenge of moving into the CFO's office and focusing on finance and operational strategy. Learn how Kathleen leverages her creative marketing lens in this new capacity to help align financial planning with corporate objectives. She'll share how her communication and storytelling skills prove invaluable in bringing diverse teams together to execute strategy. Stay tuned for a masterclass in navigating corporate environments, building consensus, and delivering tangible results. Kathleen Herowanto distills decades of experience into tactical advice for driving impact when the path forward isn't always clear. Don't miss these insights from a true change agent.

Discover how one leader is driving change through innovation and insight. On this week's episode of Coming About, Kathleen Herowanto shares her journey to become Senior Director and Executive Strategic Advisor at Novo Nordisk. With over 15 years of experience in global branding and communications, Kathleen has leveraged creativity and strategy to transform marketing for pharmaceutical, insurance, tech, and non-profit organizations. Tune in to learn how Kathleen developed award-winning campaigns that accelerated market share and audience engagement. She'll reveal the analytical and creative approaches behind her success. You'll also hear Kathleen's insights on leadership, including how she aligns teams around a vision and empowers people to think differently. Join us for an inspiring conversation about how one remarkable human is advancing her field and driving progress through her work. Discover new perspectives on branding, innovation, and making an impact with this insightful leader.

David wraps up his conversation with Ed Mitzen, the founder of the Fingerpaint Group, a leading advertising agency that specializes in marketing in the pharmaceutical, health and wellness sector. Ed has shared his remarkable story of how he pivoted his career, started his own agency, and became a successful entrepreneur and author. He has also revealed his passion for philanthropy, his philosophy of intentional giving, and his advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. In part two, we will hear from Ed about the most rewarding and challenging aspects of building and running his businesses, as well as how he and his wife are changing the world with their nonprofit organization, Business for Good. Business for Good is an award-winning nonprofit that supports social causes and empowers communities around the globe. Ed will tell us more about the mission, vision, and impact of this amazing organization, and how you can get involved and make a difference. Don’t miss this exciting conclusion of our chat with Ed Mitzen on Coming About.

In this episode of Coming About, David welcomes his old friend, Ed Mitzen, a man who has achieved remarkable success in both business and philanthropy. Ed is the founder and CEO of Fingerpaint Group, a leading advertising agency that specializes in marketing in the pharmaceutical, health and wellness sector. He is also the co-founder of Business for Good, a nonprofit organization that supports social causes and empowers communities. Ed shares his journey from being a pharmaceutical representative to becoming an entrepreneur and an author. He reveals how he pivoted his career, what inspired him to start his own agency, and how he balances his work and life. He also talks about his passion for giving back, his philosophy of intentional philanthropy, and his advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. This is a conversation that will inspire you to pursue your dreams, make a difference, and live a fulfilling life. Don’t miss this episode of Coming About with David and Ed Mitzen!

David wraps up his conversation with Dan DiVito, the marketing leader who has launched and led successful pharma brands across various therapeutic areas and markets. In part two, David and Dan dive deeper into how Dan has navigated the cultural differences between large and small organizations, and how he adapted his style and approach to different situations. They also learn how Dan plans to use TikTok for his next big adventure: a month-long RV trip across the country. Stay tuned and get ready to be inspired!

Coming About is the podcast where David Paragamian explores the stories and insights of leaders who have navigated the twists and turns of their careers. This week, he is thrilled to have Dan DiVito as his guest. Dan is a seasoned marketing leader in pharma, who has worked with both established and emerging companies. Dan has a track record of launching successful brands across various therapeutic areas and markets, with a knack for simplifying complex concepts and inspiring action. In this episode, David and Dan talk about how Dan got into pharma marketing, what challenges and opportunities he faced along the way, and what advice he has for aspiring marketers who want to make an impact in this dynamic industry. Whether listeners are marketers themselves, or just curious about how pharma brands are created and communicated, they won’t want to miss this conversation with Dan DiVito. Tune in to Coming About and get ready to be inspired!

In the conclusion of Dave's conversation with Chris Kuenne, they dive into the topic of leadership and how it differs from management. Chris shares his insights on how leaders can shape the future with conviction and courage, and why every leader needs a mentor to guide them. He also reveals the four types of founders that he identified in his book Built for Growth, and how each one has a distinct personality, motivation, and approach to building a business. Don’t miss this fascinating and inspiring conclusion of Dave's talk with Chris Kuenne on Coming About.

In the premiere of Coming About, David welcomes Chris Kuenne, a best-selling author, entrepreneur, and growth expert who has built two remarkable businesses: Rosetta and Rosemark. Chris has a unique perspective on customer motivation and personalization, and how they can drive enterprise growth and customer lifetime value. He shares his stories, lessons, and tips on how to build a business that is aligned with your personality and your customers’ needs. Whether you are an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or a curious listener, you will find this episode full of valuable insights and inspiration.