Why Playing It Safe Won’t Win: Marcus Sheridan on Trust, AI, and the Future of Marketing

On this episode of the AW 360 Podcast, we’re joined by author and marketing thought leader Marcus Sheridan to unpack the seismic shifts rocking the business world in 2025. From the explosion of AI and zero-click searches to the growing distrust of brands and agencies, Marcus shares why traditional tactics are falling short—and what businesses must do to thrive.

He introduces the four pillars of building a trusted, standout brand: saying what others won’t, showing what others shy away from, selling differently, and being unapologetically human. Tune in to hear actionable insights on how to leverage pricing transparency, video content, self-service tools, and even digital avatars to win today’s control-hungry, information-driven customers.

If you’re ready to ditch the status quo and disrupt your industry, this is the episode for you.

Creativity, Risk, and Fun: The Kamp Grizzly Way with Daniel Portrait

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Portrait, Founder and CEO of Camp Krizzly, to explore how passion, risk-taking, and a relentless drive for creativity have shaped one of the most dynamic independent agencies today. From designing band merch as a teenager to leading major campaigns for brands like Netflix, Uber Eats, and Oakley, Daniel shares his journey, the inspiration behind Kamp Grizzly, and why staying independent keeps the agency agile and innovative. Plus, we dive into the role of AI in creative work, the power of printed media, and why having fun is at the heart of everything they do.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation about pushing creative boundaries, embracing risk, and building a culture that thrives on passion.

Creativity, Leadership, and Disrupting the Status Quo with Lisa Nichols

In this episode of AW360, we sit down with Lisa Nichols, Executive Creative Director at TBWA\MCR, to explore the ever-evolving world of advertising creativity. From leading a diverse creative team to fostering innovation across brands as varied as Legoland, jewelry, and pizza, Lisa shares her insights on disruption, leadership, and balancing creativity with strategic thinking. We also discuss the challenges of supporting introverted creatives, the evolving role of women in leadership, and the industry’s responsibility in driving sustainability. Plus, Lisa shares her candid thoughts on AI’s role in the creative process—where it helps and where it falls flat. Tune in for a deep dive into the mind of a leader shaping the future of advertising.

Building Bold Brands: Strategy, Creativity & The Power of Independence with Rethink’s Sean McDonald

In this episode of the AW 360 Podcast, we sit down with Sean McDonald, Partner and Global Chief Strategy Officer at Rethink, a fiercely independent creative agency making waves in the industry. Sean dives into the key pillars of brand strategy for 2025, the art of staying memorable in a cluttered marketing landscape, and why challenging category conventions leads to breakthrough creativity.

We explore the delicate balance between data and creativity, how brands can earn consumer attention in an evolving digital world, and the importance of having a clear sense of identity amid ever-changing trends. Sean also shares Rethink’s unique agency structure, culture of innovation, and commitment to remaining independent—proving that creativity thrives when purpose, passion, and strategy align.

If you’re looking to sharpen your brand’s strategy, embrace disruptive thinking, and understand what it truly takes to stand out, this episode is a must-listen!

Helen Ma, Senior Director of Product, Head of Facebook Monetization, Meta

On this episode of AW360 we speak with Helen Ma, Senior Director of Product, Head of Facebook Monetization at Meta. Helen discusses Meta’s incredible streak of innovations, the strength of Meta’s AI-powered ad tools and what they mean for marketers, and how Meta is investing in future technology innovations for advertisers.

Jennifer Jasnoch, Head of Home Entertainment Marketing, Sony Electronics

On this episode of AW360 we’re thrilled to welcome Jennifer Jasnoch, Head of Home Entertainment Marketing at Sony Electronics. Jennifer discusses the enduring magic of the Sony Electronics brand, their recent relaunch of the Bravia TV line, how they’re working with influencers in the social space, and much more.

Paul Brenner, SVP of Global Retail Media and Partnerships at Vibenomics and Dan Hight, VP of Advertising and Media Partnerships at Placer.ai

On this episode of AW360 we speak with Paul Brenner, SVP of Global Retail Media and Partnerships at Vibenomics and Dan Hight, Vice President of Advertising and Media Partnerships at Placer AI. Paul and Dan discuss the state of retail media, including the pressing need for standardization and continued concerns around combating waste, as well as providing their perspectives on in-store advertising fitting into broader omnichannel strategies for brands.

Mark Grether, SVP and General Manager of PayPal Ads

On this episode of AW360 – recorded just after Advertising Week New York 2024 – we speak with Mark Grether, Senior Vice President and General Manager of PayPal Ads. Mark discusses PayPal Ads unique place within the larger advertising ecosystem, how advertisers can leverage PayPal through the entire customer journey, as well as why the time for PayPal to enter the Ads business is now. We hope you enjoy this episode.