BRAVE COMMERCE

In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Rob Master, Chief Marketing Officer at Edgewell Personal Care, about what stays constant as AI rapidly transforms the way marketers work.

Drawing on his experience leading brands and teaching the next generation of marketers, this conversation explores how leaders can navigate rapid change without losing sight of the fundamentals. Rob also shares how Edgewell approaches growth across iconic and emerging brands and reflects on an early career bet at Dove that helped shape his willingness to challenge convention and take big swings.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Nick Tran, President and CMO of First Round, a joint venture between Diageo and Main Street Advisors. The conversation centers around Nick’s perspective that the brands that stay relevant don't simply react to culture. They help create it.

Nick shares why brands should look beyond traditional marketing playbooks, how shifting consumer behaviors are changing the ways brands connect with people, and why AI's greatest opportunity isn't just improving efficiency, but helping marketers do things that weren't possible before.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Mindy Shaltry, VP of Omnichannel Marketing & Activation, Mondelēz U.S., and Wes Saraceni, VP of Consumer Experience U.S. at Mondelēz International, about why today's shopper journey demands closer alignment between marketing and sales.

Mindy and Wes share how their partnership is helping break down organizational silos, reshape the traditional funnel, and build more connected consumer experiences across every stage of the path to purchase. They also discuss what large organizations can learn from smaller brands, why the "missing middle" of the consumer journey deserves more attention, and how stepping into unfamiliar roles has shaped their leadership.

Key takeaways:

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On this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter are joined by Mike Westgate, Sector Lead, Retail, Global Business Solutions at TikTok, and Ben Sylvan, Senior Vice President, Connected Media Team at Keurig Dr Pepper. Bringing together both a platform and an advertiser, they offer a behind-the-scenes look at how their partnership turned Dr Pepper's viral Romeo jingle into one of the brand's biggest marketing moments.

Mike and Ben discuss how the campaign came together, from identifying an organic creator moment to making the decision to feature it during the College Football National Championship. They also explore how brands can build organizations that move at the speed of culture, collaborate more effectively with platform partners, and measure both the immediate and long-term impact of their marketing investments.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Branden Goodman, Head of Media & Marketing Capabilities, Beauty & Wellbeing US at Unilever, about how brands must adapt as algorithm-driven discovery reshapes consumer attention.

Branden explains why Unilever has embraced a social-first approach, what the shift from follower-based discovery to interest-driven discovery means for marketers, and how content creation is evolving from a campaign mindset to a continuous system of testing, learning, and optimization. He also shares how Unilever is building a modern content supply chain, where automation can accelerate execution, and why measurement must balance long-term business outcomes with real-time signals.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Felicia Zhang, Head of Marketing at Bar Keeper's Friend, to discuss what it takes to modernize an iconic brand while maintaining the trust that made it successful in the first place. Drawing on experience across global brands including Nike, Oreo, and Nestlé, Felicia shares lessons from her transition to a smaller, more agile organization, where speed, experimentation, and continuous improvement are critical to success.

The conversation explores why brands perform best when they're willing to launch, learn, and iterate rather than waiting for perfect conditions. Felicia also shares how her approach to leadership has evolved over time, including the importance of empowering teams to take action, embracing uncertainty, and finding optimism through periods of change.

Key Takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Stefan Kovačević, Global Retail Media and Digital Shelf Lead at Nestlé, about how AI is changing the way consumers discover, evaluate, and purchase products. As AI becomes a more active participant in the path to purchase, Stefan explores what this shift means for brands and why marketers need to rethink how they build trust and differentiation.

Stefan introduces the concepts of "human equity" and "machine equity," arguing that future brand success will depend on winning trust from both people and AI. He discusses the growing role of operational excellence and why emotional connections may become even more valuable as purchasing becomes increasingly automated.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Bob Liodice, Chief Executive Officer, Association of National Advertisers (ANA), to discuss the forces reshaping modern marketing. From media transparency and measurement to AI adoption and talent development, Bob shares his perspective on the challenges marketers must navigate today and the opportunities that will define the industry's future.

Bob reflects on the industry's progress toward greater transparency, the role collaboration plays in solving complex challenges, and why he believes AI can help marketers make smarter, more informed decisions. He also shares his thoughts on navigating uncertainty, developing future talent, and what marketing leaders should prioritize as the industry continues to evolve.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Jim Lecinski, the marketer behind the “Zero Moment of Truth” framework during his time at Google and now Clinical Professor of Marketing at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, about how AI is reshaping consumer discovery. From search and social to retail media networks and AI assistants, Jim explains why brands must rethink how they influence decision-making before the point of purchase.

The conversation also explores how AI is influencing both consumers and marketers, and what CMOs should prioritize as discovery becomes increasingly fragmented across platforms and channels.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Nicolle Pangis, VP of UCAN Advertising at Netflix, about building an advertising business inside one of the world’s most influential media companies.

Nicolle shares why the future of streaming advertising will depend on stronger data collaboration, interoperable measurement, and AI-powered infrastructure. She also discusses the evolution of connected TV measurement, the growing role of clean rooms and data integrations, and how Netflix is thinking about turning audience engagement and fandom into measurable business outcomes for advertisers.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Risa Cretella, Executive Vice President, Meals & Beverages at The Campbell's Company, about what it takes to evolve iconic brands while staying competitive in fast-moving, highly commoditized categories. Risa shares how she brings an entrepreneurial mindset into a large organization, focusing on smart risk-taking, faster decision-making, and empowering teams to act with conviction, even without perfect data.

She also discusses how Campbell’s is approaching innovation differently, starting with real consumer behavior and moving quickly when there’s clear evidence of demand. The conversation explores why brands lose relevance over time, how private-label gains ground, and what it takes to build and maintain a true “right to win”, while aligning brand-building efforts with commercial outcomes to drive real growth.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Britt West, Chief Commercial Officer at Gallo, about what’s really behind wine’s recent decline—and what it will take to turn the category around.

Britt challenges common narratives around health trends and instead points to a more fundamental issue: wine has failed to recruit the next generation of consumers. He breaks down how decades of premiumization created growth in the short term, but left a gap in long-term demand.

He also shares the playbook for rebuilding the category—from making wine more approachable and affordable to rethinking formats, cultural relevance, and how brands show up in everyday moments.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Helen Kurtz, Chief Marketing Officer at The Wine Group, about how one of the largest wine companies is navigating a category defined by intense competition and shifting consumer behavior.

Helen shares how her team is accelerating speed to market, bringing new products to shelf in months, not years, while moving earlier on emerging trends. She also discusses the realities of innovating across product, packaging, and format, and what it takes to succeed within a complex system of distributors, retailers, and internal stakeholders.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Lara Vandenberg, CEO and Founder of Assemble, which connects brands with senior freelance marketing talent on demand. Lara shares why traditional marketing organizational structures are breaking down, and how leading CMOs are rethinking how work actually gets done.

They explore the shift from fixed roles to flexible capabilities, the impact of overhiring and budget pressure, and why the biggest issue facing marketing teams today isn’t talent, it’s systems. Lara also unpacks the rise of new roles like marketing COOs and process improvement analysts, and what it takes to connect fragmented workflows, teams, and technologies to drive performance.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Jennifer Berry, VP of Our LEGO Agency, Commerce & Digital at The LEGO Group. Jennifer shares how LEGO is rethinking its operating model—bringing creativity, commerce, and retail together under one in-house agency to deliver more connected, audience-first experiences.

They explore why consumers don’t see channels the way organizations do, how LEGO is designing seamless ecosystems across DTC, retail partners, and physical experiences, and what it takes to balance long-term brand building with real-time cultural relevance. From immersive retail to evolving PDPs and the role of AI in freeing teams to focus on higher-impact creative work, the conversation shows how leading brands are operating in a world where brand and transaction moments are no longer separate.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Amy Luke Busker, Chief Commercial Officer at Mizkan America, about what it takes to drive growth in today’s increasingly complex commerce landscape.

Amy shares how expanding the commercial function beyond sales and marketing is reshaping how organizations operate, and why growth requires alignment across teams. She discusses silos, shared KPIs, and how teams move from fragmented ways of working to a more unified approach. She also explores how leaders can navigate rapid change—from shifting consumer behavior to more algorithm-driven discovery—while bringing entire organizations along for the journey.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Zena Arnold, Chief Marketing Officer at Sephora U.S., about how one of the world’s most influential beauty retailers stays at the center of culture in an industry that moves at lightning speed.

Zena shares how Sephora discerns which trends represent fleeting moments versus real behavioral shifts, why beauty discovery has become continuous in the age of creators and social feeds, and how the company balances digital personalization with high-impact in-person experiences like SEPHORiA. She also discusses how Sephora approaches AI—from powering skin scans and product discovery to enabling more relevant personalization—while remaining thoughtful about how new technology enhances, rather than dilutes, the client experience.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Dipesh Patel, Senior Director, Digital Transformation & Ecommerce, Global OTC at Teva Pharmaceuticals, to discuss what it takes to drive transformation in a category where trust, accuracy, and regulation shape the pace of change. Dipesh shares how his background in mathematics and early experience in retail influence his approach to problem-solving, ambiguity, and digital transformation.

They also explore Dipesh’s move from Unilever to Teva, including the difference between operating in a mature consumer goods environment versus building capabilities in OTC. The conversation also dives into AI’s role in content creation, why speed alone isn’t enough in healthcare, and how brands can use stronger systems and guardrails to scale content while maintaining control.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Brian Gelb, Senior Vice President of Wine and Concierge at Total Wine & More, to unpack how a retailer is gaining share while the broader alcohol market faces headwinds. Brian shares how his military background shaped an “intent-based leadership” approach that pushes decision-making down, builds ownership, and requires teams to arrive with a recommendation, not just an issue.

They also discuss what often breaks down between suppliers and retail partners, why bringing real customer insights to the table changes the quality of joint business planning conversations, and how Total Wine stays focused on service, selection, and sharp pricing, while expanding into non-alcoholic, THC-infused, and emerging functional beverage segments.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Toby Espinosa, VP of Ads at DoorDash. Toby shares how DoorDash built one of the fastest-growing retail media networks, and why the next phase of growth depends on making performance comparable across platforms, partners, and budgets.

They unpack the tension between local trade dollars and national media budgets, how CPG organizations split ownership between sales and marketing, and what it takes to unlock both. Toby also explores how AI can accelerate integrations, lower the cost of connecting data, and raise the bar for targeting and outcomes across commerce media.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Michael Reda, Vice President of Omnichannel Marketing at The Marzetti Company, about driving growth in categories like refrigerated dressings and frozen bread. He shares how Marzetti approaches discovery in a digitally influenced world and how the brand reinforces storytelling with retail media and partnerships like Instacart to support basket building.

They also discuss Marzetti’s post-2020 eCommerce acceleration, including the foundational work behind scaling digital commerce, from improving content and search to strengthening ratings, reviews, and agency partnerships. Michael reflects on innovation, founder stories, and the career move he considers his bravest: stepping off the traditional brand path to build a digital role early on.

Key Takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Kate Hamill, VP of North America Enterprise Sales at Pinterest, to unpack how the platform is evolving from an inspiration engine into a more measurable driver of commerce outcomes. Kate shares how Pinterest is compressing the funnel between discovery and conversion, and how brands can think differently about visual-first experiences across the shopping journey.

The conversation also dives into why social search is capturing more search budgets, how Pinterest’s AI powers proactive discovery, and why modern measurement approaches—including MMM, MTA, and incrementality—matter more than last-click attribution as consumers shop across weeks and devices. From CPG to emerging non-endemic categories, Kate explains how brands can reach consumers earlier in the journey and better understand their impact on growth.

Key Takeaways

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In this special episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter unpack M&A from the inside, drawing upon their experience navigating acquisitions firsthand.

Rachel announces MikMak’s acquisition by SPINS, sharing how it came together, why it was the right partner at the right moment, and her priorities for the first 90 - 180 days, from change management and customer communication to accelerating product innovation. She also reflects on the human side of the acquisition and what it means to support teams through uncertainty and transition.

They also share standout clips from the BRAVE COMMERCE community—featuring Stuart Heflin (Quest Nutrition), Dan O’Leary (Hostess), and Esi Seng (Tate’s Bake Shop)—highlighting what makes acquisitions successful from a brand operator’s perspective—protecting what works, honoring culture, and maintaining a challenger mindset during change.

Key Takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with John Ferris, President, Consumer at Bausch + Lomb, to discuss how modern consumer behavior is rewriting the rules for legacy brands. John shares how his team is tackling a core challenge in eye health: consumers value vision deeply, but often don’t take action until something is wrong, creating a massive opportunity for education-led growth.

John also breaks down what it means to market in a world where discovery is increasingly shaped by social platforms and AI tools. He explains how Bausch + Lomb is partnering with eye care professionals who show up as credible “influencers,” and why improving the quality and structure of brand content matters more than ever as chatbots become a go-to source. The episode closes with a look at how the pharmacy channel is evolving, and how “hidden” in-store friction can quietly shift demand online in an instant.

Key Takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Marco Brucato, Head of eCommerce Europe - DTC Transformation at Beko Europe.

Marco shares how he’s scaled digital commerce across diverse European markets by applying a “freedom within a frame” mindset, centralizing strategy, governance, and KPIs while empowering local teams to adapt for cultural nuance and shopper expectations.

He breaks down what it takes to make transformation stick inside large organizations, from securing leadership buy-in to making the cost of inaction tangible. Marco also explains why selling the problem matters more than selling the solution, how a test-small-scale-fast approach helps prove value, and why omnichannel should be a core operating principle — not a buzzword.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Laura Briggs, Head of eCommerce Excellence at Philips.

Laura shares how her team drives category growth across Philips' consumer goods portfolio (Sonicare, Avent, Grooming & Beauty) by establishing a universal focus and analyzing the core drivers of consumer growth as a key framework. She emphasizes that eCommerce is a team sport, explaining how her team aligns cross-functional partners around core KPIs, prioritizing the Digital Shelf as the essential foundation.

She shares the challenge of achieving scale and consistency globally, focusing on designing solutions for different personas, from super users to executives. Finally, Laura offers her "blue sky" vision for a commercial operating model, which would involve eliminating the divide between sales and marketing to achieve unified growth.

Key Takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Matt Blevins, Chief Marketing Officer at Heaven Hill Brands.

Matt shares why long-term brand building remains essential in the spirits category and how disciplined measurement guides smarter decision-making. He explains how digital discovery, from YouTube mixology to Reddit communities, shapes in-store behavior, and why premiumization, moderation, and innovation are the real forces reshaping today’s beverage alcohol landscape.

Additionally, he also breaks down how Heaven Hill decides when to modernize a brand, why nuance is missing from industry headlines, and what it takes to stay grounded in consumer truth while the marketing world chases real-time optimization.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Matt Taylor, Vice President of Digital at Scotts Miracle-Gro.

Matt shares how generative search is reshaping the Lawn and Garden category, raising expectations for content, partnerships, and digital experiences. He explains why Scotts brought digital and retail media together under one leader and how his team built a machine-learning model that uses weather, POS, macroeconomic signals, and media data to guide in-season investment.

He also breaks down what it takes to align brand, sales, and media teams and why patience and iteration are essential when building data science capabilities.

Key takeaways

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In this episode, recorded live at Groceryshop, Sarah Hofstetter sits down with Louise Cotterill, Global Senior Director of Insights and Intelligence at Kellanova, for a wide-ranging conversation on how to turn complex data into business results and build cross-functional trust along the way.

Louise shares how her team built a proprietary clean room solution to drive more precise audience targeting, tailor creative to shifting shopper behavior, and ultimately deliver a 36 percent sales lift for Special K in the UK. She also explains how marketers can move from one-size-fits-all campaigns to dynamic, behavior-based segmentation, even without first-party data.

Beyond the tech, Louise emphasizes the importance of soft skills. From speaking the language of the CFO to running test-and-learn pilots that bring skeptical teams along gradually, she shows how marketers can lead with both credibility and curiosity. In a standout personal moment, she reveals the bravest thing she’s ever done: spending a summer living with nomadic eagle hunters in Mongolia.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode, recorded live at Groceryshop, Sarah Hofstetter sits down with Neil Reynolds, Global Chief Customer & Digital Commerce Officer at Mars Wrigley. With experience leading across both developed and emerging markets, Neil shares what it takes to modernize digital commerce and retail partnerships at global scale.

He breaks down how Mars Wrigley is investing in omnichannel foundations, aligning teams across functions, and collaborating more strategically with retailers around the world. From building fit-for-purpose capabilities to navigating internal complexity, Neil offers a practical lens on what transformation really looks like beyond the buzzwords.

This conversation also explores why customer teams need to think like growth marketers, and how brave leadership means knowing when to slow down, simplify, and start with the basics.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, recorded live at Groceryshop 2025, Sarah Hofstetter and guest co-host Andrea Steele sit down with Benoit Vatere, Chief Media Officer at Liquid Death, for a candid and energizing conversation about what it really takes to build modern commerce partnerships that move the needle.

From launching a viral college-themed campaign with Amazon to pushing the boundaries of brand collaboration, Benoit shares how Liquid Death ties breakthrough creativity directly to retail outcomes. He discusses the importance of treating retailers as strategic partners, why the media industry needs to stop overcomplicating retail media, and how to stay focused on what truly drives awareness and conversion.

As a first-time CPG executive with an entrepreneurial background, Benoit brings an unfiltered perspective on navigating legacy dynamics with fresh thinking. He also reflects on the bold decision that brought him from France to the U.S. to chase the American dream.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Andrea Steele, Area Vice President (AVP) eCommerce & Customer Marketing at Kraft Heinz.

Andrea shares her framework for embedding digital and eCommerce capabilities across large organizations, and how true transformation starts upstream, in brand strategy, product development, and core business processes.

She breaks down five steps to make digital change stick, from aligning on strategy to measuring success and celebrating wins. Andrea also discusses balancing change management with team wellbeing, fostering collaboration across functions, and driving long-term transformation while keeping pace with an industry and audiences that move at lightning speed.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Megan Frank, SVP of Marketing and R&D at Mizkan, the 221-year-old, family-owned food company behind iconic brands like RAGÚ, Bertolli, Nakano, and the newly acquired Zing Zang.

With a portfolio of legacy brands that have stood the test of time, Megan shares how she keeps them relevant to today’s consumer while staying true to their roots. She discusses the importance of preserving core brand assets, creating a culture of empowerment, and leveraging frameworks like OGSM to connect long-term vision to short-term action.

Megan also explains how her team drives speed and agility within a family-owned structure, how retail partnerships are managed through data-backed joint business planning, and why consolidating media and shopper marketing under one team has unlocked more seamless consumer journeys.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Noah Knoblauch, Head of eCommerce and Retail Media at Suave Brands Company. With a background at Procter & Gamble and deep experience in private equity environments, Noah shares what it takes to rebuild iconic brands like Suave and ChapStick for modern commerce.

Noah explains how he started from scratch following the brand’s spin-off from Unilever and Haleon, focusing first on profitability and operational foundations before investing in content or storytelling. From strategic bundling to keyword-level retail media planning, Noah gives a transparent look at what actually drives results in the private equity-backed world of consumer goods.

He also shares how he thinks about team structure, omnichannel planning, and the future of social commerce for mass brands looking to stay relevant in emerging platforms.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Lander Otegui, Executive Vice President of Marketing and Innovation at Proximo Spirits. With a portfolio that includes legendary brands like Jose Cuervo and Bushmills, Lander shares how Proximo balances centuries of heritage with bold decisions that shape the future of spirits.

He explains how private ownership enables long-term innovation, why tequila has uniquely expanded across price points and use cases, and how the brand manages storytelling on the digital shelf in an era of AI and misinformation. From pioneering new tequila subcategories to building a distillery in the heart of Manhattan, Lander reveals what it takes to stay relevant in a category rooted in tradition.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Wendell Venerable, Vice President of eCommerce at Congo Brands. With experience at Nestlé, Reckitt, and Red Bull, Wendell shares how he has built a career by staying focused on the fundamentals, regardless of shifting trends in the commerce landscape.

Wendell explains why executional excellence still drives the most meaningful results, how to build influence across functions regardless of org structure, and what future leaders need to prioritize to stay relevant in a constantly evolving industry. He also weighs in on generative engine optimization (GEO), agentic shopping, and why not every new buzzword deserves a strategy.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Caroline Goodner, Founder and CEO of OrganiCare, the company behind FemiClear. With deep experience launching and scaling health-focused consumer brands, Caroline shares how she has built a business that addresses overlooked but highly common women’s health issues.

From vaginal health to product regulation, Caroline opens up about the unique challenges and rewards of creating solutions in a category that has long been underserved. She shares how OrganiCare earns shelf space, engages on social, and educates consumers about choices they didn’t know they had. Caroline also reflects on the personal decision that reshaped her approach to leadership and balance.

Key Takeaways:

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In this compelling episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Amber English, President, Digital & Online of the Americas at The Estée Lauder Companies. From launching on Amazon to leading organizational transformation, Amber shares the inside story of how one of the world’s most iconic beauty companies is navigating the future of commerce.

With transparency and conviction, Amber unpacks how Estée Lauder is adapting to shifting consumer behaviors, optimizing for agility, and balancing heritage with innovation. She also gets personal, revealing the brave decision that shaped her career path in a surprising way.

Key Takeaways:

Commerce Meets Consumer Intent:Estée Lauder’s move to Amazon wasn’t just a distribution shift—it was a strategic response to consumer demand. Amber explains how the company protects brand equity while embracing the reality that Amazon is both a retail and media platform.Organizing for Agility at Scale:To keep pace with modern commerce, Estée Lauder is reengineering how teams work, empowering faster decisions, embracing real-time data, and aligning KPIs across channels to reflect the interconnected consumer journey.Career Bravery Beyond the Resume:Amber’s decision not to return to college, despite the prestige-driven culture of corporate America, became one of her bravest—and most transformative—moves. Her story challenges traditional definitions of leadership and success.

👉 Tune in for a masterclass in digital transformation, brand stewardship, and modern leadership from one of beauty’s boldest change-makers.

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter are joined by John Alvarado, U.S. Chief Brand Officer at Suntory Global Spirits. As more companies replace traditional CMO roles with Chief Brand Officers, John explains why brand-building—not just marketing—is central to growth, especially in a category steeped in heritage and ritual.

From transforming Jim Beam’s go-to-market strategy to embracing Gen Z’s flavor-first preferences, John shares how Suntory is putting the consumer at the center of everything—from digital upskilling to cultural collabs. Plus, a personal story about bravery that’s both touching and cinematic.

Key Takeaways:

Why Brand Still Wins

In an age of economic uncertainty, Suntory is doubling down on brand equity rather than discounting. John shares how this conviction is fueling consumer love and long-term loyalty.

Upskilling with Purpose

From media to marketing, Suntory’s teams are evolving into digital generalists. John reveals how a “fail forward” culture and clear alignment have made upskilling more than a box-checking exercise.

Flavors, Funnels, and the Future of Spirits

With Gen Z entering the category, Suntory is leaning into bold flavors, limited-time offerings, and full-funnel marketing. Learn how launches like Jim Beam Pineapple reflect a new generation’s preferences and pace.

👉 Tune in to learn how one of the world’s most iconic spirits portfolios is embracing modern marketing while honoring what made its brands iconic in the first place.

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How do you scale a high-growth brand after acquisition without losing the culture that made it special?

On this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Stuart Heflin, Senior Vice President & General Manager, Quest Nutrition at Simply Good Foods, about how Quest has tripled in size since joining Simply Good Foods while staying true to its mission and scrappy DNA.

Stuart explains how the "flip the macros" product strategy guides every innovation, why democratizing ideas across all levels fuels their culture, and how Quest navigates an increasingly competitive high protein, low sugar market. He also details the company's omnichannel approach, integrating retail media, packaging design, and digital influence to win across physical and digital shelves.

Key takeaways:

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How do you infuse startup agility into a $3B global commerce engine?

On this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Andrew Lederman, VP of Global Digital Commerce at Mondelez, for a wide-ranging conversation on building at scale while moving with speed. From founding a startup acquired by Alibaba to transforming digital commerce at AB InBev and now Mondelez, Andrew shares how his entrepreneurial DNA shapes his leadership at one of the world's largest CPG companies.

He opens up about balancing local autonomy with global vision, the value of taking big swings instead of "safe bunts," and navigating the signal vs. noise of today's crowded tech landscape. With deep candor and clarity, Andrew explains how consumer obsession—not competitor fixation—drives long-term growth, and why brave leadership often means placing smart bets on the future.

Plus, hear his answer to our signature closing question—and why he says being a father tops his list of courageous moves.

Key Takeaways:

Whether you're scaling digital commerce or trying to future-proof your brand, this episode offers a grounded, strategic, and motivating listen.

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Jenna Steele, Vice President of E-commerce and Digital at Riboli Wines. Jenna shares how she is leading transformation in a category rooted in tradition, from building a tech-forward e-commerce function to using digital shelf insights to engage a new generation of wine drinkers.

She discusses how consumer confusion, generational preferences, and emerging wellness trends are reshaping the Alcohol landscape, and why she believes wine is poised for a major comeback. Jenna also outlines the tech stack powering her team, the role of retail media in attracting new customers, and how strong partnerships fuel innovation in a highly regulated category.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Chitra Ebenezer, Chief Marketing Officer at Velcro Companies. Chitra shares how the VELCRO® Brand inspires creativity across a wide range of consumer and industrial use cases, and how she balances B2B and B2C marketing strategies to drive growth.

She highlights the role of campaigns like “ORIGINAL THINKING®” and “EASY. DOES IT.” in shaping brand perception, and the importance of influencer programs and user-generated content to showcase versatility and build engagement. Chitra also reflects on how Velcro Companies maintains its position as the original hook-and-loop fastener in a competitive market.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Bianca Bolouri, Vice President of Global eCommerce at Wella Company. Bianca shares how her experience at L’Oréal and her work at Wella have shaped her approach to leading teams, building culture, and driving growth in a rapidly changing beauty and professional care landscape.

She discusses how a mix of global beauty expertise and startup energy enables Wella to balance speed and discipline across its consumer and professional businesses. Bianca also shares her perspective on the evolving role of DTC, the emergence of pro-grade products for home use, and how global trends in beauty are shaping consumer expectations in other categories.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Rick LaBerge, Chief Commercial Officer of HARIBO of America. Rick shares how HARIBO has grown household penetration in the U.S. from 10 to 28 percent in the last decade while staying focused on its founding values of quality, trust, and childlike happiness.

He discusses the unique challenges and advantages of working for a century-old, family-run company with deep roots in care, as well as the importance of manufacturing locally and understanding the American shopper. Rick also highlights how HARIBO is translating the joyful, colorful in-store candy experience to digital commerce, and what it takes to build lasting retailer relationships.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Andrea Zahumensky, President of North America Baby and Child Care Transformation and Canada at Kimberly-Clark. Andrea shares how the company’s long-standing commitment to solving consumer problems through science and innovation continues to guide its growth.

She discusses how leading with care, both internally and externally, becomes more powerful when backed by results, and how challenger brands have helped sharpen Kimberly-Clark’s go-to-market strategies. Andrea also reflects on the importance of authenticity in leadership and the culture shifts required to move with speed at scale.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Arthur Sylvestre, VP of Digital Commerce at Danone North America. Arthur shares how the company’s mission and strategic renewal have positioned it for outsized growth, especially in a category as complex as perishables.

He reflects on Danone’s culture of digital enthusiasm, its collective approach to retail media, and the mindset needed to build long-term, sustainable growth. Arthur also outlines how digital teams can elevate their impact by influencing both online and offline sales and keeping organizations focused on what drives meaningful results.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Megan Lindstrand, Vice President of Marketing and Consumer Experience at Combe. Megan shares how the company’s founding principles of empathy, quality, and discretion continue to shape its portfolio strategy for brands like Just For Men, Vagisil, and Astroglide.

With over two decades of experience across various agencies, PE-backed businesses, and family-owned brands, Megan discusses how ownership structure influences marketing, culture, and decision-making. She also explains how her team connects media, insights, and analytics into a unified growth engine that accelerates speed to market and drives real business outcomes.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Erin Price, General Manager of Consumer Products at Sargento. Erin shares how Sargento’s identity as a family-owned business has shaped its category leadership, commitment to long-term value, and approach to consumer-driven innovation.

Erin discusses how the company’s newest brand platform, “The Sargento Family Promise,” is rooted in transparency and trust, and how deep consumer insights, rather than fleeting trends, guide the development of new products. She also offers her perspective on recruiting top CPG talent to Wisconsin, managing through change, and developing the next generation of business leaders.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter speak with Kathleen Braine, Chief Marketing Officer at 818 Tequila. Kathleen shares what it’s like to work side by side with founder Kendall Jenner to shape 818 into one of the fastest-growing tequila brands in the U.S.

She discusses the importance of honoring Jenner’s creative vision while scaling a business that balances brand storytelling, retail relationships, and digital commerce. From NASCAR partnerships to platform-native content, Kathleen reveals how 818 is growing both brand love and business outcomes simultaneously.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstadter speak with Colleen Orani, Vice President of Global Marketing at Energizer Holdings. Colleen shares how Energizer moved from a fragmented media structure to one unified under a single leader, combining national media, shopper marketing, and content development.

She discusses the realities of leading marketing across brands with very different consumer behaviors, from impulse buys like batteries to more considered purchases like auto care. Colleen offers a transparent look into how Energizer is balancing long-term strategy with rapid fire execution, all while managing evolving retailer relationships and media investments.

Key takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Alison Levin, President of Advertising and Partnerships at NBCUniversal. With more than a decade of experience shaping the connected TV landscape, Alison shares how NBCUniversal is combining premium content, retail data partnerships, and shoppable formats to deliver results for today’s commerce-driven marketers.

Alison discusses what advertisers should expect from their CTV investments, how NBCUniversal is partnering with platforms like Instacart and Walmart Connect to prove incrementality, and why streaming environments must be evaluated beyond reach alone.

Key takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Randi Jachino, Vice President of Marketing (US & Canada) at Prestige Consumer Healthcare. With a portfolio spanning over 25 brands across categories like oral care, motion sickness, and women’s health, Randi shares how she applies both analytical and creative thinking to manage diverse consumer needs and business goals.

From starting her career as a CPA to leading marketing for powerhouse brands like Dramamine, DenTek, and Summer’s Eve, Randi discusses how to build brand equity without losing sight of immediate performance. She unpacks how Prestige strategically prioritizes brands within the portfolio, adapts to the realities of tariffs, retail pressure, and social virality, and ensures that upper-funnel and lower-funnel tactics work hand in hand.

Key takeaways:

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Podcast Description:

In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Sylvia Buxton, President and CEO of Perfetti Van Melle Americas, joins hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter to explore how impulse brands like Airheads and Mentos are thriving in a digitally transformed retail landscape.

Sylvia shares how her team is reimagining impulse marketing for both eCommerce and brick-and-mortar environments, adapting traditional trade spend strategies, and maintaining brand relevance in a world of evolving consumer behaviors. With a forward-thinking approach to media diversification, retail media integration, and category innovation, Sylvia offers a masterclass in leading through change while staying true to brand fundamentals.

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Laura Knebusch, SVP of CPG Marketing and Consumer Experience at Georgia-Pacific, joins hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter to discuss how she’s evolving the role of marketing inside a legacy CPG organization.

Laura shares how her team has shifted from traditional brand marketing to a full-funnel strategy that integrates national media, retail media, and shopper marketing. She talks about the benefits of housing retail media within marketing, the power of consistent measurement through in-house MMM, and the importance of building modern marketing talent with agility, curiosity, and resourcefulness.

Key Takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Justin Noland, VP of Digital Experience at Treasury Wine Estates, joins host Rachel Tipograph and guest co-host Melissa Burdick live from the ShopTalk floor. Together, they explore how Treasury is responding to challenges facing the wine industry while building stronger digital and consumer experiences.

Justin explains how the company addresses climate change, regulatory hurdles, and shifting preferences by combining innovation, sustainability, and storytelling. He also shares his perspective on luxury growth, retail media in a restricted category, and how Treasury approaches influencer marketing with authenticity.

For anyone in a highly regulated or tradition-rich category, this episode is a valuable look into how collaboration and experimentation can unlock growth.

Key Takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Danielle Sporkin, SVP of Media & Marketing Services at Ferrero North America, joins hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter to reflect on her nonlinear career journey from agency leadership to the Ferrero boardroom.

Danielle shares how Ferrero’s philosophy of “change by preserving” guides their approach to digital transformation, retail media, and brand building. Drawing from her deep agency experience, she discusses how to foster collaboration across internal teams and external partners, build adaptive marketing structures, and deliver growth for legacy brands while expanding into new categories.

For marketers balancing tradition with innovation, this episode is filled with insight on staying relevant while staying true to your brand.

Key Takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Brad Feinberg, VP of Media, Digital, and eCommerce at Molson Coors Beverage Company, joins hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter to share how he is reshaping the role of marketing within a regulated industry by bringing together brand and performance, digital and traditional, creative and commerce.

Brad explains how his team applies data, agility, and a consumer-first mindset across every touchpoint, including Super Bowl campaigns and Instacart product pages. With a unified structure and a focus on cross-functional skill building, Molson Coors is turning media investments into closed-loop growth opportunities and expanding into new categories like non-alcoholic beverages.

For marketers looking to modernize their organizations, this episode offers a playbook for breaking down silos and building brands that drive results.

Key Takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Josh Hackbarth, Chief Marketing Officer at MGA Entertainment, joins hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter to discuss the evolution of the toy industry and how MGA is redefining how consumers engage with its brands.

Josh explains why building emotional connections is now just as important as product innovation and how MGA is adapting to cultural trends, digital engagement, and retail media shifts. With iconic brands like Bratz, Little Tikes, LOL Surprise, and Miniverse, MGA is tapping into nostalgia, social media virality, and the rise of adult collectors to expand its audience beyond kids and parents. For marketers navigating rapidly changing consumer behaviors, this episode explores how to blend entertainment, retail, and social influence to drive brand longevity and sales.

Key Takeaways

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Podcast Description

In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Neil Shah, Chief Commercial Officer at SharkNinja, joins hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter to discuss how SharkNinja has grown from a single category company into a $5.5 billion global brand spanning more than 36 categories. Neil shares how SharkNinja’s consumer first approach fuels rapid innovation, ensuring every product meets four key criteria: speed to market, superior performance, five star quality, and strong value. He explains how the brand’s relentless focus on consumer insights, viral marketing, and omnichannel execution creates category defining products, from robot vacuums to slushy machines.

For brands looking to drive innovation and win in retail, this episode provides insights into leveraging consumer feedback, optimizing go to market strategies, and integrating retail media with organic demand generation.

Key Takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Steve Siegal, Chief Marketing & Innovation Officer at Curology, joins hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter to discuss Curology’s journey from a DTC disruptor to an omnichannel skincare leader. Steve shares how launching in Target, Walmart, and CVS has reshaped Curology’s strategy, driving credibility, visibility, and a seamless consumer experience across channels.

With a background spanning legacy CPG and digitally native brands, Steve offers a unique perspective on full-funnel marketing, measurement, and retail partnerships. He explains how Curology is using retail as a brand awareness engine, connecting physical shelf presence with its DTC prescription model to maximize consumer engagement and lifetime value.

For brands navigating omnichannel expansion, this conversation offers actionable insights on balancing brand and performance marketing, integrating data for smarter decision-making, and fostering cross-functional collaboration. Tune in to learn how to future-proof your brand in the evolving retail landscape.

Key Takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Ben Galvin, Sr. Director of Omnichannel Retail Sales & eCommerce at Monster Energy, joins hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter to discuss the critical role of category management in today’s omnichannel landscape. From the physical shelf to the digital shelf, Ben explains how the fundamentals of CPG have transformed, why search rankings now rival prime in-store placements, and how brands must adapt to shifting consumer behaviors.

With a decade of experience in category leadership, Ben shares how data-driven decision-making, cross-channel coordination, and agile responsiveness are essential for modern brand success. He discusses the changing role of syndicated data providers, the growing influence of retail media, and how companies like Coca-Cola, Keurig Dr Pepper, and Monster Energy are setting the standard for omnichannel excellence.

Throughout the conversation, Ben offers valuable insights on bridging internal silos, empowering sales teams to think digitally, and reshaping organizational structures to meet the demands of today’s marketplace. If you’re a brand leader looking to win across in-store and online, this episode is packed with strategic takeaways you won’t want to miss.

Key Takeaways

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At BRAVE COMMERCE Live in 2024, leading experts in media investment, Farrah Linden, Media Director at Wella Company, and Josh Cierski, Associate Director of Media at Reckitt, engaged in a candid debate on the evolving dynamics of brand media and retail media. Moderated by BRAVE COMMERCE hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter, this insightful discussion unpacks how brands navigate budget allocation, performance measurement, and strategic alignment in a rapidly changing retail landscape.

Farrah and Josh share how their organizations structure media investments, the challenges of defining retail media within broader marketing strategies, and the increasing role of first-party data, closed-loop attribution, and creative excellence in optimizing retail media spend. They also debate whether retail media should be held to the same standards as traditional brand media and how organizations can best structure teams to ensure cohesion, measurement rigor, and budget fluidity.

From the latest trends in eCommerce, omnichannel marketing, and consumer data strategies to the future of media investment, this conversation offers invaluable insights for brands looking to maximize ROI in an era where digital and retail media are increasingly intertwined.

Key Takeaways:

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BRAVE COMMERCE Live, held in May 2024, brought together leading voices in commerce to explore the rapidly changing landscape of consumer behavior, technology, and retail strategies. Rachel Tipograph, Founder & CEO of MikMak hosted a dynamic panel discussion with Kate Hamill, Director, Head of Industry, Retail & eCommerce at Meta, Veeral Shah, President & Chief Customer Officer of Nestlé Health Science at Nestlé, and Sam Gagliardi, EVP - eCommerce, Global Solutions at Circana.

This engaging conversation delves into how demographic shifts, such as Gen Z's fluidity and Gen Alpha's diversity, are redefining commerce. The panelists explore the role of AI in personalizing consumer experiences, optimizing creative production, and driving innovation in supply chains. From the rising importance of real-time data to evolving retail media strategies, the discussion highlights actionable ways brands can adapt to these changes while focusing on ROI and market share.

Discover how leaders across the ecosystem are preparing for the next five years of commerce by integrating cutting-edge AI, breaking down silos for better collaboration, and embracing omnichannel approaches to meet consumers where they are.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph, Founder & CEO of MikMak, and Sarah Hofstetter, President of Profitero, dive into the untapped potential of Medicare Advantage dollars with Julie Fleischer, GM, and Chief Experience Officer, and Jared Childs,  VP of Business Development at Soda Health. Together, they unpack how the $30 billion pool of "use-it-or-lose-it" benefits available to 35 million Americans over 65 is reshaping the commerce landscape for brands, retailers, and health plans alike.

Discover how Soda Health leverages innovative fintech solutions to connect health benefits to retail and CPG opportunities, enabling seniors to make preventative purchases ranging from OTC medications to healthy food options. Julie and Jared discuss how retailers are stepping up to engage this high-value demographic, and why brands need to act now to capture their share of this burgeoning market.

With real-world insights into evolving consumer health trends, actionable advice for brands, and a vision for the future of personalized health benefits, this episode is a must-listen for those ready to innovate at the intersection of health, commerce, and consumer behavior.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph, Founder and CEO of MikMak, and Sarah Hofstetter, President of Profitero, tackle breaking news reshaping the media and advertising landscape. From TikTok's potential ban in the U.S. to Meta’s controversial decision to deprecate fact-checking, they explore how these seismic shifts impact both large and small brands' strategies. The duo offers unparalleled insights into the traffic decline across TikTok and Meta, the rise of Alphabet and Pinterest, and the moral dilemmas facing brand advertisers today.

Rachel shares exclusive data from MikMak, revealing a 97 percent drop in TikTok traffic and highlighting how SMBs and challenger brands are adapting faster than their larger counterparts. Together, they dissect the risks and rewards of balancing short-term ROAS with long-term brand equity in an era of heightened scrutiny on platform ethics and safety.

As they dive deeper, Rachel and Sarah discuss retail media's growing role as a brand-safe alternative and how advertisers can leverage diverse media investments to align with their values while driving conversions. Whether you're a CMO, brand strategist, or curious listener, this episode provides actionable takeaways for navigating today’s volatile media ecosystem.

Key Takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Sarah Hofstetter and Rachel Tipograph sit down with Jean-Paul Jansen, CMO of Mars Pet Nutrition North America, to discuss the evolving Pet Care market. Jean-Paul shares how Mars adapts to trends like premiumization and shifting consumer expectations, from innovative product launches to strategic use of retail media networks and eCommerce.

Jean-Paul reveals Mars’ research-driven approach to understanding pet parents’ needs and delivering value through targeted solutions. He also highlights the company’s efforts to balance affordability with premium offerings and how retail data drives personalization and growth.

The conversation dives into Jean-Paul’s bold career pivot to eCommerce, his leadership philosophy, and how Mars stays ahead in a competitive market by focusing on innovation, collaboration, and pet parent obsession.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Kris Malkoski, CEO of Learning and Development at Newell Brands, joins Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter to share her approach to driving transformation and growth. Drawing from her extensive experience as a business leader, Kris explains her four key operating principles for building successful brands.

Kris highlights how Newell Brands is tackling industry challenges by staying consumer-focused and embracing innovation. From launching standout products like the Sharpie Creative Marker to leveraging insights to meet unmet needs, she details how her team is setting new standards for growth and differentiation.

Whether you're navigating brand strategy or looking for fresh approaches to innovation, Kris’s insights offer actionable inspiration for excelling in today’s dynamic marketplace.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter chat with Michelle Crossan-Matos, Chief Marketing Officer at Ulta Beauty. Michelle shares how her career journey from Procter & Gamble to Samsung and now Ulta has shaped her innovative approach to retail marketing. With insights on blending agility, customer-centricity, and brand-building expertise, she reveals how Ulta stays ahead in the ever-evolving beauty landscape.Michelle discusses Ulta’s loyalty program, Creator Ecosystem, and the integration of social and retail media networks to empower associates and drive relevance. She also highlights the process of identifying trends and operationalizing them into impactful marketing strategies. From lessons on leadership and collaboration to balancing a global career and motherhood, Michelle offers inspiration and actionable takeaways for marketers navigating today’s fast-paced world. Don’t miss this engaging conversation with one of retail’s most forward-thinking leaders.

Key Takeaways:

● Bridging Brand and Retail: How Michelle applies her unique background to transform Ulta’s marketing strategies

● Social at the Center: The role of real-time insights and micro-trends in shaping Ulta’s customer experiences

● Building Loyalty and Monetizing Media: Insights into leveraging loyalty programs and

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BRAVE COMMERCE Live, which took place in NYC in May 2024, brought together hundreds of brand leaders to discuss the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the commerce industry and how they could work together to drive growth.

Ashley Becker, VP of Global eCommerce Capabilities at Kraft Heinz, and Mike Geller, President of eCommerce and Digital at Newell Brands, joined BRAVE COMMERCE host Sarah Hofstetter on stage for a dynamic discussion on whether brands should maintain distinct strategies for online and offline commerce or embrace a fully integrated omnichannel approach.

This conversation explores how brands can best meet consumer expectations across diverse touchpoints. Ashley and Mike share practical strategies for delivering seamless experiences both online and offline. They discuss navigating interactions across channels, fostering collaboration, and adapting to create a unified omnichannel approach.

Key Takeaways:

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In this compelling episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Greg Hewitt, CEO of DHL Express in the U.S., to discuss the future of logistics and commerce. Drawing on his 30 years of experience at DHL, Greg offers forward-looking insights into how global shipping is evolving to meet the demands of an increasingly digital and connected world.

While reflecting on the industry’s transformation—from manual processes to AI-driven supply chain optimization—Greg focuses on the next big shifts shaping logistics, including automation, sustainability, and customer-centric innovations. The conversation highlights emerging trends in consumer behavior and explores what lies ahead for eCommerce in 2025.

Sustainability takes center stage as Greg outlines DHL’s ambitious goals for carbon neutrality, investments in sustainable aviation fuels, and innovative programs like Go Green Plus. His perspective underscores how bold, strategic decisions can drive growth and ensure resilience in a competitive landscape.

Key Takeaways:  

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, co-hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter welcome Victoria Lozano, EVP of Brand Marketing at Crayola, to discuss how this iconic brand continues to innovate and make an outsized impact with a lean team of fewer than 2,000 employees.

Victoria shares Crayola's enduring purpose rooted in fostering creativity for over 120 years and how this mission influences everything from the company's nimble operations to its strategic diversification into entertainment and location-based experiences. Learn how Crayola remains a household staple while expanding its role in children’s development and education.

The conversation also explores how Crayola balances its global brand presence with challenges in international markets, its decision to move away from DTC (direct-to-consumer) fulfillment, and the bold leadership moves that keep the brand thriving. Victoria reflects on the bravery of personal milestones and the ongoing journey of maintaining a brand cherished across generations.

Key Takeaways:

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In this insightful episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Sucharita Kodali, Vice President and Principal Analyst at Forrester, returns for an unprecedented third appearance to dissect the current state of consumer commerce. Joining hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter, Sucharita delves into the phenomenon of the "vibecession," where consumer spending remains resilient despite a lingering sense of economic unease. She provides data-backed analysis on how inflation, shifting consumer preferences, and economic headwinds are shaping the retail landscape heading into 2024 and beyond.

Sucharita discusses the challenges facing major consumer product brands as private labels and niche competitors continue to disrupt the market. From grocery aisles to luxury goods, she explains how consumers are increasingly trading down to value brands or splurging on high-end offerings, leaving middle-tier players scrambling to remain relevant. Her insights offer critical strategies for brands to adapt, including leveraging innovation, rethinking pricing strategies, and embracing diverse supply chains to mitigate potential tariff impacts under the new administration.

Looking ahead, Sucharita provides a cautiously optimistic outlook, highlighting opportunities for brands that prioritize agility and customer engagement. She also shares bold predictions about the future of marketing investments, the role of distribution in a digital-first world, and how brands can stay competitive in the face of evolving consumer expectations. Whether you're a brand leader, marketer, or eCommerce specialist, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help navigate the complexities of today’s commerce environment.

Key Takeaways:

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In this compelling episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, co-hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Katie Williams, Chief Marketing Officer of Haleon. As a seasoned leader in consumer packaged goods (CPG), Katie shares her unique journey, navigating two major corporate spin-offs—Kraft-Mondelez and GSK-Haleon. She delves into the critical lessons learned about purpose-driven business strategies, brand identity, and leading through transformation in highly dynamic industries.

Katie discusses Haleon's bold mission to redefine consumer health through trusted science and meaningful consumer connections. From developing a clear North Star to ensuring seamless brand transitions, she reveals how purpose anchors Haleon's decisions and fosters resilience amid change. Katie also highlights the growing importance of addressing consumer health holistically, blending physical and mental well-being, and adapting to the influence of digital platforms and creators in shaping health narratives.

The conversation culminates with insights into Katie's leadership philosophy, emphasizing inclusivity and courage in decision-making. Whether addressing the power of brands or collaborating with retail partners on integrated media strategies, Katie's approach underscores the value of agility, authenticity, and innovation in today's fast-evolving commerce landscape.

Key Takeaways:

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BRAVE COMMERCE Live which took place in NYC in May 2024 brought together hundreds of brand leaders to discuss the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the commerce industry and how they could work together to drive growth.

This episode features a live recording from that event and features Marcia Resnick, Head of eCommerce at Pernod Ricard, Kevin Shapiro, SVP, US Consumer Beauty Brands at COTY, and Jessica Goon, CMO at Tate’s Bake Shop in conversation with MikMak’s Kayla Darcey.

In some ways, it has never been easier to connect with consumers, but it has also never been more complicated. Whether via traditional advertising, retail media, influencers, CTV, or the myriad other channels brands need to develop authentic relationships with consumers that fuel commerce. This episode explores how three very different brands approach digital consumer engagement and leave you with new ideas for your own media strategy.

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Matthew Graham, Chief Marketing Officer at MARS Global Food & Nutrition, delves into the delicate balance between honoring a brand’s rich heritage and driving innovation in a fast-changing industry. Drawing from Mars’ century-long legacy, he shares how the company evolves its marketing strategies to remain relevant to modern consumers while staying true to its core values.

Matthew also explores the pivotal role data plays in shaping consumer understanding. By leveraging advanced analytics, Mars identifies emerging trends, tailors campaigns to meet diverse consumer needs, and ensures its messaging resonates across global markets. His insights illuminate how brands can create deeper connections with their audiences in an increasingly digital landscape.

Finally, the conversation highlights the importance of innovation in fueling growth. From developing new products that cater to shifting preferences to embracing cutting-edge technologies, Matthew reveals how Mars stays ahead of the curve. This episode offers invaluable lessons for marketers and business leaders striving to thrive in a competitive and dynamic marketplace.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph, Founder and CEO of MikMak, and Sarah Hofstetter, President of Profitero, sit down with Meghan Archer, Vice President of Digital Commerce Sales at PepsiCo. Meghan shares her unique career journey from consumer electronics at T-Mobile, to a dynamic decade at Amazon, to her current role at PepsiCo. She reflects on how her varied roles at Amazon, including in supply chain, product development, and private label, prepared her to lead digital transformation in the complex world of grocery, where PepsiCo’s omni-channel strategy is paving new paths in the CPG space.

Diving deeper, Meghan discusses the importance of nurturing curiosity and challenging the status quo, key traits that have fueled her success. She explores her approach to cultivating a team mindset at PepsiCo, where ambiguity and rapid change require a culture of continuous learning and adaptability. Meghan explains how she motivates her team to embrace these challenges, seeing obstacles as opportunities to innovate and collaboratively push forward digital transformation across PepsiCo's well-known brands.

In the latter part of the episode, Meghan shares her insights into PepsiCo’s commitment to talent and technology as cornerstones for its success. She highlights the importance of strong partnerships with retailers and the focus on getting the fundamentals right. Wrapping up, Meghan reflects on her bravest career move, a leap from T-Mobile to Amazon, which pushed her out of her comfort zone and laid the foundation for her growth as a resilient, forward-thinking leader.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Mesh Gelman, the visionary founder and CEO of Cumulus Coffee Company. Mesh shares his fascinating journey from textiles to the world of coffee, revealing how a chance encounter with Starbucks icon Howard Schultz inspired his shift from “putting people to sleep” in the home fashions industry to “waking them up” with coffee. Through riveting stories, Mesh reflects on his time at Starbucks, where he saw firsthand the power of innovation at scale and the coffee culture that drives it.

Mesh goes on to introduce Cumulus Coffee Company, his latest venture. Built on the observation that consumers increasingly crave iced coffee yet struggle to create a premium experience at home, Cumulus aims to make café-quality cold brews and nitro-infused coffee accessible on demand. He highlights the science behind cold brew's smoother taste and discusses the challenges and breakthroughs involved in making a nitrogen-infused beverage without specialized equipment.

To wrap up, Mesh shares insights into his DTC and B2B growth strategies for Cumulus, highlighting opportunities in office spaces, bars, and luxury hotels where customers seek elevated coffee experiences. Reflecting on his career, Mesh reveals the brave step that changed his life: taking Howard Schultz’s invitation to “stay in touch” seriously. His decision to follow up led to a career-defining relationship, reinforcing the importance of courage and follow-through in the world of commerce.

Key Takeaways

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Sarah Hofstetter, President of Profitero, and Rachel Tipograph, Founder & CEO of MikMak, sit down with Linda Bethea, the Chief Marketing Officer of Danone North America. Linda shares her insights into how Danone’s mission of delivering health through food to as many people as possible aligns with its business growth strategy and certified B Corp status. Drawing from her experience at PepsiCo and Danone, she discusses the importance of leadership development, culture, and her focus on blending performance with purpose.

Linda also reveals how Danone stays ahead in a dynamic and competitive CPG landscape by constantly evolving its portfolio to meet consumer demands. From reducing sugar to expanding plant-based offerings, Danone remains committed to sustainability and health-conscious choices. Additionally, Linda touches on exciting brand initiatives like Oikos’ partnership with HBCUs to improve student nutrition and support athletes.

As a marketing leader and professor, Linda reflects on how she stays relevant in a rapidly changing industry, engaging with younger generations and embracing digital commerce. She also shares her approach to career bravery, encouraging women to be direct and ask for what they want—whether in the boardroom or beyond.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Michael Kassan, founder and CEO of 3C Ventures, to discuss his dynamic career in the commerce industry. Michael reveals the thought process behind launching 3C Ventures, a company focused on Consulting, Convening, and Co-investing. He explains how these three pillars serve as the foundation of his business, offering insights into where he sees the industry headed and how 3C Ventures will continue to be a driving force at the intersection of marketing, media, and technology.

Michael also delves into the importance of human connections and making strategic bets on people. Sharing anecdotes from his career, he emphasizes the value of trusting instinct when identifying talent and why relationships built on trust and transparency are essential for long-term success. Whether it’s finding that "lightning in a jar" in potential hires or maintaining a network of trusted industry leaders, Kassan explains how people remain the core of his business philosophy.

Finally, the conversation turns introspective as Michael reflects on his legacy and lessons learned from past leadership decisions. He openly discusses one of his greatest business regrets and how it has shaped his perspective moving forward. With a mix of wisdom and humility, Michael shares what he hopes the industry will say about him in the future and offers advice for the next generation of entrepreneurs navigating the ever-evolving world of commerce.

Key Takeaways:

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BRAVE COMMERCE Live which took place in NYC in May 2024 brought together hundreds of brand leaders to discuss the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the commerce industry and how they could work together to drive growth.

Janda Lukin, Chief Marketing Officer at Campbell’s Snacks and Mike Pierson, Chief Customer Officer at Campbell’s Snacks joined BRAVE COMMERCE host Sarah Hofstetter on stage for a conversation about collaboration in the c-suite that drives omnichannel success. They look at this collaboration specifically in light of the recent launch of Campbell’s Snacks’ Goldfish Crisps product.

Discover how the iconic Goldfish cracker brand expanded its appeal beyond kids to become a beloved all-family snack. From strategic pivots based on insights to cross-functional partnership  between sales and marketing, this conversation delves into the keys to a successful launch. You'll hear about the importance of partnership, alignment on KPIs, and the creative solutions that brought this product to life, including how they overcame challenges in retail and leveraged consumer insights for explosive growth.

Listen to this episode and/or find the video of this session here. 

Key Takeaways:

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On this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Sarah Hofstetter, President of Profitero, and Rachel Tipograph, Founder & CEO of MikMak, sit down with Kerry Sullivan, CEO of Versed. Kerry shares her career journey from leading iconic beauty brands at Neutrogena and Dollar Shave Club to helming Versed, a rising skincare brand. She discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of transitioning from established corporations to a fast-moving indie brand and how her vast experience in beauty commerce gives her a competitive edge.

Kerry dives into the differences between managing large, structured organizations and working alongside visionary founders like Katherine Power at Versed. She reflects on the importance of adopting a “scrappy” mindset, leveraging big brand best practices while embracing the agility required to scale emerging brands. Kerry also shares her approach to recruiting for growth-stage companies and the critical role of immersing herself in various aspects of the business, from marketing to warehouse operations.

As Kerry discusses the evolving beauty landscape, she emphasizes the importance of authenticity, understanding consumer needs, and balancing new trends with proven business practices. Her insights into modern influencer marketing, the future of TikTok Shop, and global expansion make this a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of beauty brands.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Shane O’Rourke, Head of Performance Marketing at Diageo, to explore how the global beverage giant is adapting to the unique economic challenges and shifting consumer behaviors in the UK market. Shane shares insights into how Diageo is leveraging technology, personalization, and retail media to remain competitive amidst inflation and the rising trend of premiumization and moderation in the spirits industry.

Shane also delves into Diageo’s innovative use of generative AI to drive cost efficiencies, enhance content creation, and gain critical consumer insights. He highlights the UK’s forward-thinking approach to retail media and how it's influencing Diageo's omnichannel strategy. Lastly, Shane reflects on Diageo’s commitment to fostering an inclusive workplace, especially in its efforts to recruit, engage, and retain Gen Z talent, ensuring the company remains vibrant and innovative.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Murat Genc, Global Chief Technology and Digital Officer at Whirlpool Corporation. With a career spanning nearly two decades at Procter & Gamble before transitioning to Whirlpool, Genc reflects on the challenges and growth he experienced while shifting from the consumer packaged goods (CPG) sector to the world of durable appliances. He shares how his leadership approach evolved and how his reliance on team collaboration and reverse mentoring has helped him keep his finger on the pulse of the organization.

Genc delves into the complexities of marketing products with extended lifecycles, like Whirlpool's iconic KitchenAid mixers, compared to the faster-paced, repeat-purchase models of CPG. He explains how Whirlpool navigates this difference by focusing on the lifetime value of their customers through digital services, subscriptions, and connected technology. Genc also highlights the importance of IoT integration in appliances, giving Whirlpool real-time insights into product usage and consumer behavior to continually refine their product development and marketing strategies.

The conversation takes a deeper dive into breaking down silos between marketing, tech, and R&D functions at Whirlpool. Genc shares his thoughts on bridging these gaps, drawing from his experiences at P&G and his philosophy of cross-functional collaboration. As the conversation concludes, Genc opens up about the bravest moment of his life—overcoming a personal health challenge and how it shaped his professional and personal outlook.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Oshiya Savur, Chief Brand and Marketing Officer at Maesa, joins hosts Sarah Hofstetter and Rachel Tipograph for a deep dive into the evolving beauty industry. Oshiya shares Maesa’s unique approach as a beauty incubator, shedding light on how they disrupt declining categories by identifying unmet consumer needs and revitalizing them with scalable, beautifully designed brands.

Oshiya explains Maesa's dual focus on brand incubation and scaling, detailing their strategy of forging exclusive retail partnerships to drive growth while maintaining brand authenticity. By balancing organic marketing efforts with influencer-led content, Maesa navigates the fine line between mass distribution and direct-to-consumer models. This dynamic approach helps them consistently deliver innovative products to market while fostering deep relationships with retailers and consumers alike.

In a personal reflection, Oshiya discusses her professional journey from global corporations like Unilever to leading at Maesa. She emphasizes the importance of hands-on leadership, innovation, and embracing a nimble mindset in a fast-paced industry. Tune in to hear Oshiya’s insights on building brand heat, the future of D2C, and her advice for staying brave in a rapidly changing marketplace.

Key Takeaways:

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In May, BRAVE COMMERCE brought its community together for an in-person event in NYC, featuring a keynote from celebrity entrepreneur Tia Mowry—best known for her roles in Sister, Sister and The Game—and Karima McDaniel, President of 4U by Tia, a hair care line designed for textured hair.

On this special episode, host Rachel Tipograph sits down with Tia and Karima to discuss the inspiration behind 4U by Tia, their strategic partnership with Walmart, and their approach to building a profitable, values-driven brand.

Tia’s vision for 4U by Tia stemmed from her personal frustration with the lack of accessible products for textured hair. Embracing the motto “If you don’t see it, be it,” she turned her passion into action. Karima, with her extensive experience in brand marketing, plays a pivotal role in channeling Tia’s passion into a thriving business.

Central to their success is a strong sense of community. Tia’s deep connection with her audience, built over years, has been key to their organic social growth. Whether on Instagram, TikTok, or Facebook, the 4U by Tia brand consistently shows up where their fans are.

Influencers also gravitate toward the brand, bringing fresh ideas for promotion. Tia and Karima take a thoughtful approach to nurturing long-term partnerships with these influencers, ensuring the relationships go beyond one-off transactions.

Listen to this episode and/or find the video of this session here. 

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter are joined by Parbinder Dhariwal, VP and GM of CVS Media Exchange (CMX), to explore the distinctive approach CVS takes to the rapidly evolving retail media landscape. Parbinder discusses how CMX leverages CVS's extensive loyalty program to differentiate itself from other retail media networks. With 74 million active ExtraCare members and a vast network of digital and physical touchpoints, CVS is uniquely positioned to deliver personalized and seamless shopping experiences across channels.

Parbinder shares insights into how CVS integrates its loyalty data with both on-site and off-site media, ensuring every interaction is measurable and attributing value back to the retailer and its partners. He also discusses the significance of CVS's omnichannel strategy, which is built to meet consumers where they are—whether online or in-store. This conversation delves into the crucial role that loyalty programs play in driving retail media success and how CVS is setting new standards for the industry.

Tune in to hear about the future of retail media in a world where cookie deprecation is imminent and data-driven personalization is key. Parbinder offers a deep dive into how CVS is not only keeping up with industry trends but leading the charge in innovation and consumer connectivity.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Sarah Hofstetter and Rachel Tipograph sit down with Ken McFarland, the Global Head of Digital Commerce for Unilever Home Care. Ken shares insights from his unique career journey, beginning with his leap from 7th Generation to Unilever, and how he has navigated the challenges of scaling from a nimble, values-driven company to one of the largest global consumer goods companies. He reveals how he balances his adventurous spirit, as evidenced by his bungee jumping experience, with the structured processes required in a massive organization like Unilever.

Ken dives deep into the role of creativity and data in digital commerce, highlighting how Unilever leverages innovative content and media strategies to engage with consumers online. He discusses the critical role of category management and the analytical mindset that underpins successful eCommerce operations. Ken also explores how he keeps the human touch alive within the vast, process-driven environment of Unilever by fostering strong internal communities and ensuring the eCommerce team remains tightly connected and effective.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into the intersection of creativity and data, the importance of storytelling within the organization, and how to champion the relevance of eCommerce in a company where it may only represent a small percentage of overall sales. Whether you're leading a small team or managing digital commerce for a global giant, Ken's experiences offer lessons in leadership, innovation, and the power of pushing beyond your comfort zone.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of the BRAVE COMMERCE podcast, co-hosts Sarah Hofstetter and Rachel Tipograph are joined by Sarah Larsen, Chief Marketing Officer of Samsung Home Entertainment. Sarah shares her journey from organizing soccer team outings as a ten-year-old to leading the marketing efforts at one of the world's most iconic tech brands. She credits her father for instilling a love of marketing, combining creativity with analytical skills to solve business challenges.

Sarah dives into the unique culture at Samsung, where a "never satisfied" mentality drives continuous innovation. She explains how the company’s ethos of accountability and relentless improvement resonates with her own approach to marketing leadership. This conversation offers listeners insight into how Samsung maintains its position as a leader in the consumer electronics industry by anticipating consumer needs and fostering a culture of experimentation.

Finally, Sarah discusses her bold approach to influencer marketing, highlighting the importance of genuine partnerships over transactional relationships. She reveals how Samsung’s focus on culturally relevant content and smart, creative storytelling has paid off in both brand health and sales.

Key Takeaways:

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On this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Axel Adida, Chief Digital Officer at Beiersdorf, to discuss the evolving landscape of global commerce. Axel, who brings a wealth of experience from his time at L'Oréal and Sanofi, shares insights into the seismic shifts that are reshaping the beauty and health industries. From the enduring power of great brands to the explosion of digital media and the rise of data-driven marketing, Axel offers a comprehensive look at the forces driving today's consumer behaviors.

Axel also dives into the unique dynamics of the Chinese market, explaining why it's a bellwether for global trends. He explores how China’s digital ecosystem, particularly the dominance of platforms like WeChat and the boom in live streaming, sets the pace for innovation in commerce. The conversation touches on the challenges and opportunities of translating these trends to other regions, and the nuances that make certain strategies succeed in one market while struggling in another.

Finally, the episode delves into the concept of the "desire economy," where luxury and beauty brands thrive by creating products that consumers don't just want, but deeply desire. Axel discusses how today's consumers engage in an endless loop of inspiration, exploration, and community interaction, reshaping the traditional marketing funnel. With influencers now playing a pivotal role in purchasing decisions, Axel offers a fresh perspective on how brands can navigate and leverage this new landscape to build lasting connections with their audience.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, co-hosts Sarah Hofstetter and Rachel Tipograph sit down with Ryu Yokoi, Chief Digital Officer for Unilever's Personal Care North America division, to explore the company's dynamic shift towards digital commerce and performance-driven marketing. Ryu shares insights from his impressive 20-year tenure at Unilever, revealing how his diverse experiences across brand management, startups, and digital strategy have equipped him to lead Unilever through a period of rapid transformation.

Ryu discusses the company's strategic integration of media, digital marketing, and eCommerce, explaining how this convergence is reshaping Unilever's approach to the marketplace. He reflects on his journey from traditional brand management to running a direct-to-consumer startup, and how these experiences inform his current role. With an emphasis on data-driven decision-making and omni-channel strategies, Ryu highlights the importance of agility and adaptability in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.

Listeners will gain valuable insights into how Unilever is positioning itself to thrive amidst competition from both established brands and disruptive challengers. Ryu also touches on the critical role of retail media and the evolving relationship between sales and marketing in the age of digital commerce. Whether you’re a CPG marketer, digital strategist, or simply interested in the future of commerce, this episode offers a fascinating look into the inner workings of one of the world's largest consumer goods companies.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Sarah Hofstetter and Rachel Tipograph welcome Rich Lehrfeld, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Walmart Connect, to explore the transformative landscape of retail media. Fresh from the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, Lehrfeld shares his insights on the evolving conversations with suppliers, brands, and advertisers, emphasizing the integration of creativity, data, and AI to solve business challenges.

Lehrfeld delves into Walmart Connect's journey from focusing primarily on lower-funnel sales metrics to embracing a holistic, full-funnel approach that addresses both performance and brand-building needs. He highlights the increasing collaboration between sales and marketing teams within organizations and the necessity of bridging the gap to provide comprehensive advertising solutions. Lehrfeld's extensive experience in media buying and brand metrics brings a unique perspective on the future of retail media and its growing influence.

As the retail media space continues to expand, Lehrfeld discusses Walmart Connect's strategies to remain competitive against major players like Disney and Meta. He explains how better targeting, data infusion, and innovative measurement techniques are crucial in delivering value to clients and driving sales. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to understand the dynamic intersection of media, marketing, and retail.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Sarah Hofstetter, President of Profitero, and Rachel Tipograph, Founder & CEO of MikMak, engage in a dynamic conversation with Bryan Leach, CEO and Founder of Ibotta. Bryan shares the inspiring journey of building Ibotta from its inception in 2012 to its recent transition into a public company. He delves into the original vision of creating a unified starting point for rewarded shopping for American consumers and how Ibotta has grown to include over 50 million users and distributed $2 billion in cash back rewards. Bryan also discusses the strategic pivot that took place five years into the company's journey when Ibotta dramatically expanded its scale by distributing its exclusive offers on various third-party digital properties, emphasizing the importance of innovation and scalability in sustaining growth.

As the conversation progresses, Bryan outlines the evolution of Ibotta into a powerful B2B white-label software platform for retailers, significantly expanding its reach and impact. He highlights the company's four-word mission—"make every purchase rewarding"—and explains how this mission extends beyond Ibotta's direct-to-consumer app to powering loyalty programs for major retailers like Walmart, Dollar General, and Family Dollar. This shift has enabled Ibotta to reach 91% of American households and positions the company to potentially give away billions of dollars in rewards annually.

The discussion also explores the intricacies of change management and the challenges of scaling a business while maintaining its core values. Bryan shares valuable insights into the strategies that have driven Ibotta's success, including the importance of performance-based marketing, agile budgeting, and leveraging data to understand consumer behavior. By emphasizing the significance of agility, transparency, and continuous innovation, Bryan provides a blueprint for other entrepreneurs and marketers looking to navigate the complexities of modern e-commerce.

Key Takeaways:

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On this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Sarah Hofstetter and Rachel Tipograph sit down with Lorran Brown Cosby, Senior Vice President of Digital and E-commerce at Perrigo. Lorran discusses the groundbreaking launch of Opill, the first over-the-counter birth control pill, and its transformative impact on women's health and accessibility. She shares insights into Perrigo's digital commerce strategies, the importance of building retailer confidence, and the unique challenges of marketing sensitive health products. Additionally, Lorran delves into how Perrigo's dual role as a manufacturer and brand builder supports both their proprietary brands and private label products for major retailers, enhancing consumer trust and loyalty.

Lorran begins by introducing Perrigo and its extensive range of products that likely reside in every household. From allergy relief to infant formula, Perrigo's self-care categories are vast. Lorran highlights the company's unique position as both a manufacturer of national consumer brands and private label products for major retailers. This dual role allows Perrigo to reach a broad consumer base while building trust and loyalty through reliable and accessible products.

The conversation then shifts to the launch of Opill, a game-changing over-the-counter birth control pill. Lorran explains the meticulous planning and research that went into this launch, emphasizing the significance of providing accessible contraception to women across the United States. She discusses the comprehensive marketing strategy that included building awareness, trust, and a strong online presence to support the product's success. Lorran also touches on the collaborative efforts with retailers to ensure the product's visibility and accessibility in both physical and digital stores.

In the final segment, Lorran addresses the challenges of marketing products in what is considered a "blush category." She explains how Perrigo navigates sensitive health topics while building consumer trust and confidence. By leveraging data and insights from global markets and focusing on personalized consumer experiences, Perrigo effectively communicates the value and accessibility of their products. Lorran's insights into digital marketing, consumer behavior, and the strategic importance of private label products provide a comprehensive look at Perrigo's innovative approach to e-commerce and brand building.

Takeaways:

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Join hosts Sarah Hofstetter, President of Profitero, and Rachel Tipograph, Founder and CEO of MikMak, in an insightful episode of BRAVE COMMERCE featuring Kheri Tillman, EVP and Chief Marketing Officer of BlueTriton Brands. Together they dive deep into the strategies and stories behind one of the leading names in the water industry.

Kheri Tillman shares the journey of BlueTriton Brands, highlighting their impressive portfolio of regional spring waters like Poland Spring, Deer Park, and Arrowhead. She discusses the unique approach of sourcing water locally, the strategic acquisitions such as Saratoga, and the innovative launch of new products like ionized water brand, Action. Discover how BlueTriton is making waves in the market by staying true to its core values and adapting to consumer demands.

In this episode, Kheri also delves into her transition from publicly traded companies to a PE-backed portfolio, the challenges and opportunities in the ever-evolving beverage industry, and the importance of maintaining a strong brand presence amidst the rise of private labels. Learn how BlueTriton continues to thrive by embracing change, fostering clear communication, and celebrating successes.

Key Takeaways:

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter are joined by Colgate Palmolive’s Diana Haussling, Senior Vice President and GM of Consumer Experience and Growth, CMO and Amy Benford, VP GM of Integrated Marketing. Together, they delve into the transformative experiences and invaluable insights gained at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. The discussion navigates through the unique value Cannes provides, from serendipitous encounters leading to innovative partnerships to the pivotal role of retail media in contemporary marketing strategies. 

Diana and Amy emphasize how Cannes acts as a melting pot for creativity, data, and innovative collaborations, fostering an environment where groundbreaking ideas can flourish. They share anecdotes illustrating the serendipity of networking opportunities at Cannes, such as an impromptu meeting with Jay Shetty that blossomed into a fruitful partnership for Colgate Total. The conversation also highlights the importance of shifting from transactional interactions to visionary dialogues, allowing for the exploration of the art of the possible in brand marketing. 

Furthermore, the episode underscores the growing significance of retail media and its evolving role in the marketing ecosystem. Diana and Amy discuss the intersection of media, tech, and brand partnerships, shedding light on how retail media is no longer confined to the lower funnel but is now integral to creating a holistic storytelling experience. They also touch on the responsibility of marketers in the age of AI, emphasizing the need for ethical considerations and responsible innovation as the industry navigates this rapidly advancing landscape.

Key Takeaways:

The Value of Serendipitous Networking: Cannes Lions provides a unique environment where unplanned interactions, such as the encounter with Jay Shetty, can lead to innovative and impactful brand partnerships.

Retail Media's Evolving Role: Retail media is transforming from a lower-funnel tactic to a crucial component of holistic marketing strategies, enabling brands to create comprehensive storytelling experiences.

Responsible AI in Marketing: As AI becomes increasingly prevalent, marketers must prioritize ethical considerations and responsible innovation to shape the future of the industry positively.

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In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with Michael Rosenberg, founder and CEO of PIM Brands, to explore the fascinating journey of his company. Initially founded as "Promotion in Motion" with the idea of advertising on tractor trailers, Rosenberg's company has transformed into one of North America's leading confectionery businesses. He shares the intriguing backstory of how a licensing deal with Columbia Pictures for Annie-shaped cookies marked the beginning of their success in the food and candy industry, eventually leading to their rebranding as PIM Brands. Rosenberg emphasizes the importance of adaptability and innovation, crucial elements that have driven the company's growth and evolution over the years.

Rosenberg delves into the strategic pillars that have fueled PIM Brands' impressive 15% annual growth for over four decades. He outlines the company's focus on five key areas: innovation, consumption, distribution, promotion, and exportation. By maintaining a pulse on market trends, investing in technology, and expanding globally, PIM Brands has successfully navigated the ever-changing landscape of the confectionery industry. Rosenberg also highlights the significance of having a talented team and fostering a culture of continuous learning, which has been instrumental in achieving sustained growth and profitability.

Additionally, the episode touches on the personal aspects of running a family business, with Rosenberg's children now joining the company and bringing fresh perspectives and leadership. He shares his passion for the business and his approach to maintaining energy and enthusiasm after decades in the industry. Rosenberg's story is not just about building a successful company but also about creating a legacy that combines innovation, family values, and a genuine love for bringing moments of joy to consumers through their products. Tune in for a compelling conversation about resilience, strategic growth, and the sweet success of PIM Brands.

Takeaways:

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Loretta Franks, Global Chief Data & Analytics Officer at Kellanova, started her career at Kellogg’s seventeen years ago. Thanks to a recent spinoff, she now works at a company with a 118 year legacy that is also a start-up. In this conversation, recorded live on June 4th, 2024 at Shoptalk Europe in Barcelona, Loretta shares the experience of managing IT through the separation of Kellonova from WK Kellogg Co as well as how she successfully leads a data and analytics organization across 180 countries and an extensive array of product categories.

In spinning off Kellanova, Loretta oversaw the transition of 300 different IT systems, the creation of 7K+ individual user IDs, and did so while maintaining the supportive and fun culture that kept her at the company for so many years. The success of these transitions required that all bets were off as far as silos “We had a job to do and that was to make sure that we continued to supply our customers, continued to delight our consumers, and continued to keep running the business.”

Despite the 118 year legacy of the Kellogg’s brand, Kellanova is facing the future with a startup mentality and this perspective shift also triggered a cultural shift. The company added courage to its key values of accountability and integrity and they shaped their strategy in order to differentiate, drive and deliver. When it comes to data and analytics in particular, Loretta focuses on the business need or problem and backs their processes, tools, and goals into those needs. 

Every day requires thoughtful prioritization to meet the needs of so many brands across so many markets. Loretta balances speed, risk and value in order to help her team address organizational needs and assess new opportunities successfully. She emphasizes the need for strong partnerships to succeed in a cross-functional role.

Key Takeaways:

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Over the years, BRAVE COMMERCE hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter have made it a point to focus on the experiences and stories of their guests, and not themselves. As a result, they have never used this platform to highlight the work they do in their day-to-day roles: Rachel as the Founder and CEO of MikMak and Sarah as the President of Profitero.

This episode, recorded on stage at the recent BRAVE COMMERCE Live event in NYC, features the professional wisdom these two industry leaders bring to their work every day.

Rachel launched MikMak with the strong belief that the boom in D2C did not signal the end of retail, but instead the need for enterprise brands to connect more directly with their consumers. As many challenger brands have moved into stores, their legacy competitors feel an even greater need to show up where their customers are spending time, and convert them effectively. MikMak creates shoppable experiences that put brands in the driver's seat with consumers. In turn, MikMak provides the data needed for these brands to make smarter marketing decisions. Additionally, this data strengthens brands positioning with the 7,000+ retailers in MikMak’s network. After a year that included two major acquisitions and several new partnerships, MikMak is better positioned than ever to empower the world’s brands to grow commerce-first, and to succeed in the emerging era of intelligent commerce.

Sarah’s company, Profitero, is the leading global commerce acceleration company offering a flexible suite of intelligence-driven solutions so that brands can grow profitably. Their integrated digital shelf analytics, shelf-intelligent activation and advisory services empower brands to optimize product availability, discoverability, and maximize conversions across 1,200+ retailers in 70 countries. With Sarah at the helm, Profitero has been recognized as the #1 Digital Shelf Provider by DCG, deemed a customer favorite on G2, and identified as an integral part of Publicis Groupe’s recognition as a commerce leader in the Forrester Wave™.  

After [finally] introducing their companies, Rachel and Sarah shift the discussion to the trends they are seeing in commerce and in the market including:

● The consumer is more digitally connected than ever before – 8 in 10 consumers say retail purchases are influenced by digital touchpoints (Profitero)

● 66% of traffic (as measured by MikMak) comes from Social, and the majority of that is from Meta

● Amazon is losing against Walmart when it comes to grocery, 50% decline in Amazon grocery traffic in the past 90 days (MikMak)

● There is a clear trend of shrinking basket size (MikMak), but profitability remains a priority with brands reporting a 116% increase in a dedicated focus on pricing and promotions (Profitero)

The market is different. To succeed in the era of intelligent commerce requires brands to beat the market where it is today. You’ve got the information and collaborative partnerships will help you understand what to do with it. Stay tuned for future episodes from BRAVE COMMERCE Live featuring the superstars of commerce.

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