Spikes Excitement Talks

Julie Jackson-Jones is Director of Marketing CRM Loyalty & Analytics at EssilorLuxottica, where she works across more than 25 brands shaping customer experience, loyalty and patient journeys. Before that, she built her career across industries including luxury fashion, music, logistics and retail with roles at Bulgari, Robert Graham Designs and more. Her unconventional path — from selling subscriptions door-to-door in New York during the financial crisis to leading CRM strategy for global luxury brands — has given her a uniquely human lens on marketing, leadership and customer behaviour.Julie shares why loyalty is ultimately about belonging, how shame and desire shape consumer behaviour and why the future belongs to marketers who deeply understand human psychology. The conversation moves from career setbacks and imposter syndrome to vulnerability in leadership, emotional intelligence in CRM and embracing uncertainty in a rapidly changing world.Tune in for a deep dive into customer psychology, career reinvention and why the strongest brands are built one human interaction at a time.

In this epsiode, Tara King, Senior Director of North America Brand & Portfolio Strategy for Bombay Sapphire at Bacardi, talks about the course of her career and how she has helped shape globally recognised beverage brands across Diageo, Vita Coco and Richmond Marketing — building brands through cultural relevance, emotional resonance and instinct-led strategy. Originally from Ireland and now based in the US, Tara brings a uniquely human perspective to modern marketing: one rooted less in noise and more in meaning.She explores how brands can earn relevance not through louder messaging but through culture, moments and human insight. From moving to New York with no job and no visa, to shaping award-winning campaigns in the spirits industry, she shares her perspective on leadership, creativity, AI and the future of brand building.Tune in for a conversation about instinct, cultural fluency, emotional relevance and why the future of marketing belongs to brands that create meaning.

In this episode Ralitza Iordanova, Global VP, Brand Marketing at Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, reflects on what luxury really means today, why hospitality is ultimately about human emotion, and how the future of brands may shift from aspiration to restoration. From leading iconic hotel transformations across cultures to designing experiences that help people regulate their nervous systems, this conversation explores the intersection of luxury, wellbeing, culture and human connection.Tune in to get insights on luxury hospitality, emotional connection and why the future of wellness is about helping people slow down, reconnect and truly feel cared for.

In this episode, Saurav Mohanty, Head of Digital Products & Technology at Yum! Brands Europe, shares a remarkable journey from growing up in rural India to leading digital innovation across global brands. He reflects on how curiosity sparked his path into technology, why product thinking sits at the intersection of business and engineering and what it takes to stay grounded in a fast-moving digital world. With previous roles at EF Education First, Nestlé, IBM, and Accenture, he brings a unique blend of engineering expertise and business acumen. A Harvard MBA graduate, Saurav is passionate about using technology to create meaningful impact—especially in fostering community and supporting future generations in an AI-driven world.Looking ahead, Saurav explores the role of AI in shaping society and why building real human connection and opportunity should be at the heart of it.Tune in to hear how curiosity, resilience and big thinking can turn humble beginnings into a global career in digital innovation and why the future of tech must stay deeply human.

In this episode, Billy Cheng, Head of Consumer Data Activation & CRM at L’Oréal, shares how global experience across Asia, Europe and the US has shaped his approach to consumer data and brand relationships. With experience spanning companies like AS Watson and Reckitt, he has built deep expertise in managing large-scale consumer databases, designing CRM strategies and driving innovation across diverse markets. Billy is focused on developing a broader leadership perspective that bridges data, marketing, and business strategy. From managing databases of over 100 million consumers to driving innovation in CRM and beauty tech, Billy explains why the future isn’t just about more data but better trust. He explores the balance between rapid AI-driven innovation and strong governance and why brands that master both will win in the long run.Tune in to discover how data, governance and innovation come together to build meaningful consumer experiences at scale.

In this episode, Gordon sits down with Linda Bethea, Senior marketing executive and former Chief Marketing Officer at Danone with leadership experience at companies like Diageo and PepsiCo. Linda has spent her career building and transforming major consumer brands, combining deep consumer insight with sharp business acumen. Beyond her corporate roles, she also serves as a board director for Make-A-Wish Hudson Valley.Linda shares her unconventional journey from studying psychology to leading iconic brands across food, beverage and beyond. She breaks down why great marketing is about far more than ads, how to truly understand consumers and what it takes to turn around a struggling brand. From reinventing Captain Morgan to navigating the future of AI-driven marketing, Linda offers a candid, experience-rich perspective on building brands that matter—and last.Tune in to learn how world-class brands grow beyond advertising and what it really takes to win in today’s fast-changing marketing landscape.

In this episode of Excitement Talks, Sandra Peat speaks with Burcu Sahin, Director of Global Marketing for Portfolio Strategic Initiatives at Mars, about a career driven by curiosity, culture and a deep understanding of people.From starting out in investment banking to discovering her passion for behavioural economics and strategic planning, Burcu shares how a non-linear path led her to global brand building. She reflects on pivotal moments—from navigating visa setbacks that turned into global opportunities to shaping transformative growth strategies for iconic brands.The conversation explores what it really takes to build brands in today’s world: understanding evolving consumer values, connecting with new generations and rethinking marketing in a more human, collaborative and culturally relevant way.Tune in to understand better why the future of brand building is about deeply understanding people and co-creating with them.

In this episode, Maik Hofmann sits down with Eugene Lee, Vice President, CMO APAC at CHAGEE, to explore a marketing career shaped by music, emotion and real human connection. From growing up in Malaysia with dreams of becoming a rockstar to leading campaigns for global brands like McDonald’s, Eugene shares how creativity, culture and customer obsession define his approach.This conversation dives deep into the power of emotional marketing—from a little girl’s reaction to a pink Coke glass to building challenger campaigns that disrupt entire categories. Eugene also reflects on leadership, humility and the art of scaling personal connections in a global business.Tune in to find out why the most powerful marketing doesn’t just inform, it creates emotional moments people never forget.

In this episode, Gordon Euchler sits down with Florent Bondoux, Global Head of Digital, E-Commerce, Data & Analytics at Nestlé Health Science, to explore how AI is transforming health, commerce and the way we make decisions. From building a multi-billion health science business inside a global corporation to experimenting with AI-driven habit coaching and personalized wellness, Florent shares a rare inside view on where innovation is actually creating impact today.They dive into the complexity of modern health, the rise of omnichannel commerce and why the real challenge isn’t data but changing how people think and act on it. Florent also reflects on leadership, career-defining moments and the growing tension between technological opportunity and societal disruption.Tune in to learn how AI is turning fragmented health data into actionable insights and why simplicity is the ultimate competitive advantage in a complex world.

In this episode, Mahabir Panigrahi, Director of Global Marketing, Consumer & Commercial Analytics Intelligence at The Coca-Cola Company, shares his journey from a self-described “numbers guy” to shaping analytics at global scale.Having worked with Coca-Cola for years as a consultant before joining full-time, Mahabir brings a rare end-to-end perspective on how data, marketing and technology intersect. He explains how analytics has evolved and why the real challenge today isn’t access to data, but turning it into fast, actionable insights that drive business decisions.Mahabir dives into the impact of large language models, not as hype, but as practical tools that accelerate workflows, enhance storytelling and democratize analytics across teams. For him, AI isn’t a disruption to fear—it’s a powerful enabler that expands what’s possible, if used with the right mindset.Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at how one of the world’s biggest brands is adapting to rapid technological change.

In this episode, Andrés Ruiz, Head of Digital and Consumer Experience Middle East at Pernod Ricard, shares his journey from Colombia to Madrid to Dubai and what it takes to lead digital transformation in one of the world’s most dynamic regions. With nearly 15 years of experience across brands like Nestlé and agency work on global accounts, Andrés unpacks the realities behind “the glamorous side” of marketing—where strategy, sales alignment and consumer insight matter far more than just ads and social posts.Andrés also reflects on leadership, the importance of soft skills in a tech-driven world and why curiosity and trust from mentors shaped his career. Tune in to get insights on launching disruptive products with global icons to navigating the AI revolution.

In this episode, Chris Fiorillo, Global Head of Marketing at Zurich Resilience Solutions, shares how he’s building a marketing engine from the ground up embedded within Zurich Insurance. With a career spanning Infosys, Mondelez and The Adecco Group, Chris brings a unique perspective on creating brands, driving digital transformation and navigating complex corporate environments while thinking like a startup.From his early roots in journalism to leading global marketing strategies, Chris explains why storytelling, strong communication and trust across leadership teams are still the foundations of great marketing. He also reflects on the importance of curiosity, continuous learning and embracing AI—not as a buzzword, but as a real shift that marketers must lead, not follow.Tune in to find out what it takes to stay relevant as AI reshapes everything and much more. 

In this episode, Ciaran McCarthy, VP Brand & Advertising at Microsoft, shares his path from art school in Dublin to his current position at Microsoft. What started with a blunt rejection from a professor became the catalyst for a career spanning agencies, global campaigns, gaming and now the frontlines of AI.Ciaran takes us behind the scenes of creative life and reflects on the pivotal shift from agency to client side, where creativity meets business impact  and what it really means to become a “creative business leader.”Now at Microsoft, Ciaran is at the heart of one of the most transformative moments in technology. He shares how AI is reshaping not just the outputs of marketing, but the entire creative process—from idea generation to prototyping and brand building. Tune in for a deep dive into curiosity, resilience, and what it takes to create meaningful work in an era where the rules are being rewritten in real time.

In this episode, Mélanie Brinbaum Head of Marketing & Consumer Communications Europe at Nestlé, shares her unconventional journey through some of the world’s most iconic brands—revealing why passion, curiosity, and authenticity matter more than any carefully crafted career plan. From leading global marketing at scale to pursuing a PhD while raising a family, Mélanie opens up about the reality of juggling ambition with meaning. She reflects on the mentors who shaped her, the personal experiences that redefined her purpose and why she believes marketing’s future is more human in the age of AI.Tune in for a reminder that growth comes from stretching yourself, staying curious and having the courage to be unapologetically you.

In this episode, Silke Mennenga Vishab, Co-Head of Design, Brand at JPMorgan Chase, shares her remarkable journey from a small town in Germany to co-leading design for one of the world’s largest financial institutions. With roots in agency life and global beauty brands, Silke reveals how early lessons in resilience, craftsmanship, and attention to detail shaped her creative philosophy.She takes us inside the world of large-scale design systems at JPMorgan Chase, where even the smallest detail can impact millions and explains why she sees financial services as a true luxury experience. From designing credit cards like pieces of jewelry to creating immersive airport lounges, Silke shows how great design is about making people feel something.The conversation dives into the power of collecting ideas, the importance of strong creative foundations in the age of AI, and why surrounding yourself with inspiring, challenging people is key to doing your best work. Tune in to know more about the art of turning vision into experience.

In this episode, Miriam Garcke, Marketing Lead NIVEA Face & Skin Care Germany at Beiersdorf, reflects on a two-decade career shaped by iconic brands like Nivea and Eucerin. From launching products seen in millions of households to creating meaningful impact for people with real skin concerns, she shares how her motivation evolved from visibility to purpose.Miriam also talks about the power of strong leadership, trust, and a unique job-sharing model that fuels learning and collaboration. As she transitions back to Nivea, she discusses what excites her most—people, fresh challenges, and the opportunity to keep growing.Tune in to hear more about innovation in skincare, shifting consumer values, and why curiosity—paired with human connection—remains the key driver in an ever-changing industry.

Luke Paxton, VP of New Product Exploration & Incubation at Fidelity Investments, takes us on a journey from architecture and 3D design to the forefront of AI innovation. With a career shaped by reinvention—from startups to skateboards to cutting-edge tech—Luke shares how user experience has been the common thread throughout.The conversation explores how AI is transforming the way we build, learn, and create—removing skill barriers and enabling anyone to turn ideas into reality. Tune in to dive into mentorship, creativity as an adult and why the future belongs to those willing to experiment, learn and think beyond limitations.

In this episode, Gordon is joined by Shruti Bose, Head of Global Campaigns at Roche and former VP at APACD, shares her journey across continents and industries—shaped less by planning and more by embracing opportunity. From “planned happenstance” to her philosophy of “bloom anywhere,” she reflects on building a meaningful career in healthcare communications.The episode explores the shift from treating illness to enabling lifelong health, the impact of AI, and why today’s communicators must navigate constant change—and take calculated risks instead of chasing perfect answers.Tune in to find out more about the power of inspiring leadership and why the future belongs to those willing to take calculated risks rather than chase perfect answers.

In this episode, Greg Lombardo VP Global Marketing at Tupperware, shares how great brands don’t just grow—they evolve. From reinventing Transformers into a storytelling powerhouse to redefining Play-Doh and rediscovering the emotional core of Tupperware, Greg breaks down what it really takes to unlock a brand’s full potential.Tune in for a deep dive into creativity, strategy and the art of staying true to your brand while thinking bigger than your category.

In this episode, Leonora Scarpa, VP at Procter & Gamble, shares what it really takes to build brands in a world where commerce, technology and human behavior are constantly evolving.From a 20+ year journey across innovation, digital commerce and brand building, Leonora reveals why true growth starts with curiosity and why the future of marketing depends on staying deeply connected to real human needs.A conversation on leadership, mentorship, purpose and how to integrate creativity, data and commerce without losing the human at the center.

From the Greek special forces to McKinsey, P&G, Samsung, and until recently CMO at Electrolux—Nikos Bartzoulianos shares a powerful perspective on what it takes to build brands and careers that stand out.This episode dives into the importance of bold choices, authenticity and emotional connection in a world overloaded with options. Nikos explains why great brands don’t just compete on features, but on meaning and why being different beats being better.Tune in for a conversation about discipline, storytelling, cultural intelligence and the human edge in marketing.

In this episode, David Dowgiello, Director Global Social Media at Adidas, shares his journey from aspiring sports journalist to shaping global brand conversations at one of the world’s most iconic companies.From early days in digital advertising to pivotal roles at Twitter and TikTok, David reflects on building a career at the intersection of culture, technology and sport. He also opens up about moving to Germany, navigating personal setbacks, and why embracing the “underdog mindset” can unlock bold, creative work.Tune in for a energetic conversation about risk, resilience and doing work that genuinely excites you.

In this episode, Gordon hosts Jason Holzman, former Senior Vice President, Creative & Production at Macy’s.He shares his unconventional journey from studying literature at Harvard University to leading creative strategy at global brands like NBCUniversal and Macy's.Jason unpacks how storytelling sits at the heart of marketing, why learning “on the job” can be your greatest advantage, and how the future of branding lies at the intersection of entertainment, retail and immersive experiences.Tune in to get insights on leadership, creative feedback and why in an AI-driven world, human authenticity may become the most valuable currency of all.

In this episode, Valda Coryat, VP Marketing Consumer Products & Branded  Food Service at McCormick & Company, shares her journey from an MBA at Columbia University to leading marketing across global giants like Colgate-Palmolive, Heineken and now McCormick & Company.Valda dives into the power of mentorship, the transition from functional to emotional branding, and why trust is the real foundation of great careers. She also explores the shifting dynamics between brands, retailers, and consumers, and what it takes to build brands that endure for generations. Tune in to get insights about how a world shaped by AI and rapid change, the marketers who win will be those who stay human, intuitive and relentlessly curious.

In this episode, Gordon hosts Gaurav Datta, Global VP Personal Care at Unilever who shares how he balances legacy, innovation and consumer obsession across billion-dollar brands. So what does it take to lead some of the world’s most iconic brands into the future—without losing what made them iconic in the first place? From leadership lessons to the end of “lazy marketing,” this is a deep dive into what modern brand building really demands.Tune in to learn how to grow legacy brands, lead through complexity, and win attention in a world where just stopping the scroll is already a victory.

In this episode, Gordon Euchler speaks with Thomas Ullram, Global Marketing Director for Taste & Wellbeing at Givaudan. With more than 25 years in the food and beverage industry—from Kraft Foods to flavour houses—Thomas shares how curiosity, consumer insight, and bold marketing shape the future of what we eat and drink. They explore the fast-changing world of flavours, the power of provocative brands, and why the most valuable career lessons often come from the toughest bosses.Tune in to hear why understanding consumer curiosity, embracing change and even learning from the bosses you didn’t like can shape a truly flavorful career.

In this episode, Dave Cobban speaks with Sierra Thomas, Head of Brand Innovation at Crocs. Starting with a background in fine arts and art history, Sierra found her path into marketing just as social media was emerging as a powerful business tool. She shares how creativity, curiosity, and agile thinking shape modern brand building—from rapid-response marketing to culturally relevant campaigns. The conversation explores agency vs. brand-side life, the power of mentorship, and why the future of marketing may actually be more human and more “in real life” than ever before.Tune in to learn how creativity, culture, and agile thinking help brands move at the speed of the internet and why the future of marketing may be more human than ever.

In this episode, Gordon talks with Nikita Kucheryavy, Digital Activation Head at Mars Petcare, about his journey from professional ballroom dancer to a decade-long career at Mars. Nikita shares how the company’s culture and values shaped his path, what it means to work at the intersection of retail media, marketing, and e-commerce, and why embracing change—especially in the age of AI—is essential for marketers today.Tune in to get how curiosity, purpose and adaptability fuel long-term growth.

In this episode, Gordon Euchler speaks with Anja Spielmann, VP Global Brand Strategy & Growth at Mars’ Royal Canin, about building brands with long-term thinking.From starting as a marketing assistant at Ferrero to leading global brand transformations at Mars, Anja shares lessons on courage, leadership, and why choosing the right manager matters more than choosing the right job.They explore the power of family-owned companies, what marketers can learn from category dynamics, how she helped transform Ben’s Original and why the future of marketing will be radically reshaped by AI.Tune in to find out why choosing the right manager matters more than choosing the right job. 

In this episode, Gordon Euchler speaks with Robyn Parks, Vice President and National Head of Marketing Strategy & Growth at Verizon.Robyn shares the unconventional path that took her from engineering studies to HR, and eventually into marketing leadership—building a two-decade career inside one company. She talks about the power of mentorship, why breadth of experience early in a career can matter more than rapid promotions, and how some of the biggest professional lessons come from parenting.They also explore leadership during the COVID era and why chasing impact matters more than chasing titles.Tune in to understand why the future of marketing will be shaped where technology, humanity and business meet.

In this episode, Gordon hosts Per Christiansen, Consultant - Brand, Marketing & Media at Advisory. From agency strategist to global marketing leader at KAYAK, Per shares what it really takes to scale travel brands at speed. He walks us through the high-stakes growth journey of Momondo — scaling fast, entering new markets in weeks and treating marketing like an investment portfolio, not an ad department. The conversation dives into experimentation at scale, why marketers must “throw the textbooks out the window,” and how even hard-to-measure channels like Premier League sponsorships can be turned into measurable growth engines.Tune in for a conversation about curiosity, challenger thinking and staying objective in a world where every channel eventually peaks.

In this episode, Gordon speaks with Omer Waysman, VP Marketing B2C North America at Michelin, who shares a powerful journey across industries — from Microsoft to Danone — and across continents, from Paris to the American South.What unfolds is more than a marketing career. It’s a masterclass in resilience, brand building, and servant leadership. Omer opens up about failing spectacularly during a live demo, why selling a product you don’t love can make you a better marketer and how winter tires can create an emotional experience of trust. Most of all, he reveals why the real KPI that excites him isn’t market share — it’s people growth.Tune in for insights about culture, confidence and what it really means to build brands that matter.

In this episode, Gordon sits down with Alex Nicholson, Senior Director of Digital Strategy at AstraZeneca, whose career spans from record stores and underground event promotion to leading social media transformation at USA TODAY and working with iconic brands like National Geographic.A true early pioneer of social media (full-time since 2007), Alex reflects on riding the first wave of digital disruption and what today’s AI boom can learn from it. From securing facebook.com/USAToday in the early days to training 140 journalists to break news on Twitter, she shares hard-earned lessons about change management, authenticity, and the tension between technology and humanity. The conversation dives into connection, credibility, media responsibility and why the future may belong to those who can contextualize, not just create.Tune in for a exploration of digital evolution  and a reminder that in every wave of innovation, the real opportunity lies in understanding how humans connect.

In this episode, Gordon sits down with Katie Fernands, former Marketing Director at Prudential Financial and former VP Growth Marketing Manager at U.S. Bank, to explore the deeply human side of money. From personal loss and becoming a primary caregiver to shaping ultra-high-net-worth strategies, Katie shares how her lived experiences transformed her understanding of financial stability. She reveals how curiosity drew her into the industry, why “simplicity is a superpower,” and how AI should free us for deeper human connection—not replace it. Tune in for a future-facing conversation on emotional money and why the most rational decisions often begin with understanding what we feel.

In this episode, Gordon speaks with Bhavna Satyanarayan, Head of Corporate Brand Strategy & Positioning at BASF.From agency life to global leadership roles across India, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur, Bhavna shares how storytelling, strong mentorship and bold career moves shaped her journey — including returning to BASF after exploring new paths at Volvo Buses. They discuss aligning brand with business strategy, building global teams from scratch, the power of purpose-driven brands like Patagonia, and why the future of marketing lies in bringing humans and AI together — not choosing between them.Tune in for a conversation about curiosity, courage, and crafting brands that truly stand for something.

In this episode, Sandra speaks with Ginevra Adamoli-Kalbli, Director of Marketing Intelligence and Digital Analytics at Marriott International.From academia and early social media research to agency life at Epsilon and global hospitality, Ginevra shares how her love of culture, diversity, and understanding people shaped a non-linear and powerful career in analytics.They explore the evolution of “big data,” the challenge of connecting fragmented customer journeys, and why AI isn’t optional anymore — it’s about how creatively you use it.Tune in for a sharp conversation about insight, innovation, and the future of marketing intelligence.

In this episode, Gordon Euchler speaks with Mareike Bell, CSR & Sustainability Director for L’Oréal Consumer Products Division in Germany, Switzerland and Austria. Mareike reflects on her 18-year journey in the beauty industry—from category management at Henkel to leadership roles at L’Oréal—and shares how sustainability, refills and cultural change have become her personal mission. Tune in for insights on learning outside your comfort zone, leading with vulnerability and why optimism is a critical skill when driving real transformation.

In this episode Gordon hosts Therese Bork, Director Marketing, Head of Brand and Partnerships, Nordics & Baltics for Visa. She shares an honest story about ambition, joy and choosing a career path that feels right—even when it doesn’t look linear on paper. From fashion and design to the Stockholm School of Economics, from Mondelez to Amazon, and now leading branded partnerships for Visa across the Nordics and Baltics, Therese has always followed one guiding principle: spark joy. She reflects on the courage it takes to leave great roles behind and discovering that loyalty itself can be a superpower. Tune in for a conversation about self-belief, growth and embracing the scenic route—professionally and personally.

In this episode, Gordon Euchler sits down with Michelle van der Veen, Global Direct-to-Consumer Lead for Specialized Nutrition at Danone. Michelle shares her unconventional journey from art history and museums into global digital commerce, how COVID fast-tracked Danone’s DTC ambitions and why DTC is less about selling more—and more about serving better. The conversation explores personalization, AI, patient-centric platforms and what it really takes to build meaningful digital services inside a global corporation.Tune in to get insights about building what matters. 

In this epsiode, Gordon speaks with Lea Drusio, Marketing Director at Nespresso Germany. She shares her non-linear journey from startups and agencies to global brands. From learning performance marketing in the early Rocket Internet days to leading highly emotional categories like pet care and coffee, Lea reflects on trust-based leadership, the courage to say no, and why corporate environments can be powerful platforms for real impact. Tune in for insights about brand consistency, human connection in a tech-driven world, and what truly excites marketers looking ahead.

*german episode*In this episode Gordon hosts Michael Lüttgen, Chief Customer Officer at Kaufland and former CMO at Biedronka for Jerónimo Martins, OBI and Lidl. From challenger mindsets and retail scale to customer insight, price reality, and leadership without ego, Michael shares why marketing is not advertising, why consistency beats copycats, and why understanding people matters more than winning arguments. Tune in for a sharp episode about impact, complexity and staying grounded in reality.

In this episode, Gordon Euchler sits down with Angeliki Kazantzidi, Head of Marketing Northern Europe at Kenvue, to talk about leadership without ego, the power of learning agility, and what it really takes to manage complex brand portfolios across cultures.With nearly two decades at Johnson & Johnson / Kenvue, Angeliki shares her unconventional career path from chemistry to marketing, why she returned to the same company twice, and how purpose-driven brands, great teams, and curiosity fuel long-term success. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation about people-first leadership, mentoring and the future of marketing in the age of AI.

In this episode, Dave Cobban sits down with Guido Gennari, Executive Director Product Management at JP Morgan Chase. From Buenos Aires to New York, Dallas and now JP Morgan Chase, Guido’s career is a masterclass in embracing change. He shares how strong analytical foundations, customer obsession, and curiosity shaped his journey from KPMG to leading product management for nearly 300,000 employees worldwide.The conversation dives into the balance between data and human insight, the power of killing your ego, building memorable customer experience cultures and why AI isn’t here to replace us—but to help us go faster and think bigger. Tune in to get insights about growth, leadership and designing experiences that truly work.

In this episode, Gordon Euchler sits down with Lucia Martinez Barrenechea, Global Strategy and Competitor Intelligence Lead for Beauty & Wellbeing Business Group at Unilever, to unpack how global FMCG giants really think and compete. From a law degree in Spain to shaping strategy across a beauty and personal care business, Lucia shares how decoding competitors, understanding organizational structures, and tracking trends like longevity, AI, and social commerce are redefining the beauty industry. Tune in for insights about markets in motion, brands that endure and the people who shape meaningful careers.

In this episode Gordon Euchler hosts Danyal Syed Ali, Head of Consumer and Customer Insights at IKEA, to explore his journey from early startup life in Pakistan to global brands like Nestlé, the BBC, and ultimately one of the world’s most loved retailers.Danyal shares what it really takes to evolve an iconic brand in a time shaped by AI, omnichannel complexity, and changing customer expectations—without losing the warmth and humanity that made the brand successful in the first place. The conversation also dives into IKEA’s unique culture, what keeps people there for decades, the power of diversity and inclusion in retail, and Danyal's growing interest in responsible consumerism and the role businesses must play in protecting the future of our planet.Tune in to find out what it takes to stay relevant while staying human.

In this episode, Gordon sits down with Natasha Maharaj, Senior Global Brands Director at The Heineken Company. With a career spanning Unilever, Nestlé, PepsiCo and now Heineken, Natasha shares how world-class FMCG brands are built at the intersection of creativity, culture, and commercial impact.From her belief that “marketing chose me,” to shaping iconic beer brands around human connection and togetherness, Natasha reflects on leadership, curiosity, experimentation, and why timeless insights matter even more in an AI-driven world. Tune in for a conversation on brand courage, creativity at scale and the future of marketing.

In this episode, Dave sits down with Matt Kerbel, Global Brand Strategist and Marketing Leader at Turo. With nearly two decades of experience across challenger brands like Lyft, Call of Duty, MeUndies and now Turo, Matt shares how curiosity, empathy and human connection have shaped his career.From formative childhood experiences in multicultural Toronto to career-defining mentorship moments, Matt reflects on what great leadership really looks like, why fundamentals still matter in an AI-driven world, and how brands can build meaning beyond transactions. Tune in for insights on staying human in an ever-accelerating industry.

In this episode, Gordon Euchler hosts Rob Edwards, Head of Media Digital at Arla Foods, shares his journey from local press to leading brand media, reflecting on the power of creativity, personality, and storytelling in an increasingly data-driven world. He explores the role of partnerships, mergers, and integrity in shaping brands that stand out, and why connecting with people—at all levels—is the secret to lasting impact. Tune in to get inspired on building a brand with personality.

In this episode, Gordon Euchler sits down with Alexander Shmelkov, Director of Consumer & Brand Insight at IKEA, to talk about what it really takes to evolve a global brand tracker. Alex shares his journey from economic sociology and GfK to the client side, and offers a behind-the-scenes look at leading large-scale change in a values-driven, consensus-oriented organization. The conversation covers brand tracking transformation, change management, IKEA’s culture, and what excites Alex about the future of marketing in an increasingly complex world.Tune in to get first-hand insights  of one of our most beloved brand! 

In this episode, Sandra Peat sits down with Elle McCarthy to explore a career defined by transformation. From her early days in advertising to senior leadership roles at EA and the Ford Motor Company, Elle shares how failure, curiosity, and the intersection of art and science shaped her path. Together they unpack brand as a driver of cultural and business change, the power of leading transformation from within, and what excites Elle now—from AI-driven strategy to building the future of brands. Tune in for a conversation about growth, impact, and reimagining what brand leadership can be.