Episodios

  • In Ep. 151 of Earned, Conor Begley sits down with Shane Heath, Co-Founder & CEO of MUD/WTR—a powerful coffee alternative rooted in wellness. Tackling the cultural norms around caffeine consumption, MUD/WTR has transformed the lives of many with their unique blend of functional mushrooms, cacao, and chai. To start, Shane dives into his career path, beginning as a tech designer and then pivoting to being a brand founder on a quest to redefine wellness on an unconventional path. Shane delves into his story of lifestyle experimentation and business innovation, highlighting how MUD/WTR stands out with its bold branding and human-centered marketing approach. We learn about the brand's mission to challenge societal norms, its strategic expansion into retail, and how authentic collaborations with influencers who resonate with its holistic philosophy are truly beneficial. Switching gears, Shane explains how he envisions MUD/WTR as more than just a product—but a movement aimed at addressing broader societal challenges like caffeine dependency and mental health. To close the show, Shane gives his “hall of fame” book recommendations for the readers out there.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:
    1. How co-founder & CEO Shane's journey into wellness and the founding of MUD/WTR reflects a growing trend towards natural health solutions
    2. Why MUD/WTR’s branding and marketing emphasizes simplicity and authenticity
    3. How MUD/WTR has met creators where they’re at on their own wellness journeys for real, human content


    Connect with the Guest:

    Shane’s LinkedIn - @shaneheath


    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq


    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • On this special episode of Earned, we’re sharing Conor Begley’s onsite interviews with creator economy experts and speakers at CreatorIQ Connect 2024. To start, Conor and Danessa Myricks dive into how leveraging micro-communities and tailored messaging can drive authentic connections and build brand loyalty. Then, Kim Larson discusses the innovative ways platforms are using new tools to amplify engagement with emerging creators and enhance audience connections. Milani Cosmetics CMO Jeremy Lowenstein emphasizes the importance of aligning influencer voices with brand values to build genuine and impactful partnerships. AT&T Lead Product, Creator Intelligence Emanuel Macias shares how centralizing influencer strategies can maximize ROI, streamline creator partnerships, and enhance brand consistency. With BeatBox’s Apphia Castillo, the conversation shifts into why prioritizing creators' unique styles fosters authenticity and connecting with diverse audiences more effectively. Finally, the growing importance of valuing creator engagement and meaningful content over follower count is broken down by Lloyd D'Souza, SVP Global Head of Central Video at Condé Nast.

    Connect with the Guests:

    Danessa’s LinkedIn - @danessamyricks

    Kim’s LinkedIn - @kimlarson

    Jeremy’s LinkedIn - @jeremylowenstein

    Emanual’s LinkedIn - @emanmacias

    Apphia’s LinkedIn - @phiphibb

    Lloyd’s LinkedIn - @lloydsouza


    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq


    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

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  • In Ep. 150 of Earned, Conor Begley sits down with Colette Laxton, co-founder The INKEY List, a skincare company centered around knowledge, quality and efficacy, transparency, and equality. To start, Colette shares her inspiring journey from corporate life to becoming a skincare innovator. Launching The INKEY List in 2018 with her partner Mark Curry, Colette embraced a market shift towards transparency and simplicity in skincare, quickly securing a presence in major retailers like Sephora. Central to The INKEY List's triumph is building genuine relationships with creators and consumers. Colette delves into how authenticity and shared values have been pivotal in nurturing these connections, balancing internal efforts with external support. She discusses the challenges of finding team members who excel at fostering these relationships, emphasizing sincerity and continuous engagement as keys to long-term success. Switching gears, we explore Colette’s perspective on personal growth, as she reflects on leveraging TikTok's dynamic platform during the pandemic to propel brand success. To close the show, Colette shares about her love of antique items that have had a past and will have a future beyond us.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    How transparency and authenticity are crucial to building a successful skincare brand How early adoption and genuine engagement on platforms like TikTok can significantly boost brand visibility and success How to build meaningful connections internally and externally that aid in navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship


    Connect with the Guest:

    Colette’s LinkedIn - @colettelaxton

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 149 of Earned, Conor Begley sits down with an experienced data and analytics leader with over 35 years in the marketing analytics field: Doug Jensen. To start, Doug delves into the strategic intricacies of marketing mix models (MMM) and how they address modern challenges like iOS privacy changes. Doug shares his strategies for measuring influencer marketing impact beyond sales, and enhancing brand desirability and consumer engagement. He then emphasizes the importance of nurturing authentic creator relationships and the growing significance of Earned Media Value (EMV) as a key performance metric. Switching gears, we explore the potential of platforms like TikTok Shop and tools like CreatorIQ and Dash Hudson in transforming brand-creator partnerships. To close the show, Doug shares some tips for planning an unforgettable African safari that will have you packing your bag as you listen.

    In this episode you will learn:

    The importance of cultivating genuine relationships with creators across various follower levels to ensure successful campaigns Why balancing brand and performance marketing, particularly amidst evolving industry trends, is crucial to overall success Why companies should consider using marketing mix models (MMM) to prove ROI and address modern challenges like iOS privacy changes

    Connect with the Guest:

    Doug’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doug-jensen-7722b11/

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 148 of Earned, Conor Begley sits down with Michel Brousset—founder and CEO of Waldencast, a company whose mission is to acquire, accelerate, and scale beloved beauty and wellness brands including Milk Makeup and Obagi. To start, Michel recounts his successful corporate career, from his early days at Procter & Gamble to transitioning to L'Oréal, and shares how this journey inspired him to found his own company, Waldencast, with the hopes of making a meaningful impact in the beauty industry. We discuss the challenges of leaving a stable corporate role to build Michel’s own legacy, as well as the strategic approach he took when Waldencast acquired Obagi and Milk Makeup. Michel emphasizes his commitment to fostering a company culture that champions inclusivity, sustainability, and transparency, before diving into his long-term vision for the company, and why he values steady, sustainable growth over short-term spikes and market fluctuations. To close the show, Michel shares some great personal travel and skincare tips (which you’re going to want to write down).

    In this episode, you will learn:

    Why inclusivity, sustainability, and transparency are vital to building a long-lasting beauty legacy

    Why long-term, sustainable brand growth is more valuable than short-term spikes and market fluctuations

    How the strategic acquisition of Obagi and Milk Makeup laid the foundation of Waldencast's growth strategy


    Resources:

    Waldencast - https://www.waldencast.com/

    Connect with the Guest:

    Michel’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelbrousset/

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 147 of Earned, Conor Begley sits down with CreatorIQ’s newly crowned CMO and creator marketing expert Brit Starr. To start, Brit recounts how a cold call from Conor led her to pivot from traditional brand marketing into the thriving tech world. We discuss the crucial role Brit has since played in growing CreatorIQ from a small startup to an over 300-employee powerhouse, before diving into her passion for influencer marketing and insights into the industry's dynamic landscape. Brit shares her core marketing philosophies, emphasizing value addition, simplicity, and community involvement as essential pillars for building successful brands. Switching gears, Brit discusses the complexities of merging brands, and the importance of clear communication and internal alignment to foster innovation. To close the show, Brit shares her excitement for brand leadership, highlighting the need for empathetic leadership and effective decision-making. Keep an eye out for more of Brit… hint hint!

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    Why empathetic leadership and authenticity are pillars of Brit’s marketing and leadership philosophies How the influencer marketing landscape has evolved since Brit entered the industry, and where she thinks it’s heading next Why managing current objectives while planning for future innovation, fostering internal alignment, and clear communication are keys to effective leadership

    Connect with the Guest:

    Brit’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/britmccorquodale

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 146 of Earned, Conor Begley sits down with Jim Louderback—editor and CEO of “Inside The Creator Economy” Newsletter. To start, we dive into Jim's remarkable career spanning from management consulting to leading iconic media entities like PCMag, VidCon, and Revision3, and Jim shares invaluable insights for anyone navigating the media landscape. Jim then reveals his secret sauce to maintaining authenticity, creating compelling content, and leveraging AI tools such as ChatGPT to enhance the creative process. Next, we hear Jim’s innovative approach to event planning, emphasizing the importance of the attendee journey and creating lasting impressions. Switching gears, Jim highlights the increasing significance of digital creators and the transformative potential of AI tools like DALL-E and Midjourney. Jim explains how these technologies can democratize content creation, allowing a broader, global audience to share their stories online. We discuss how platforms like CreatorIQ are incredibly helpful for managing and scaling influencer marketing programs and underscore the importance of community and engagement in today's media environment. To close the show, Jim shares his passions outside of writing, which include technology reviews, as well as helping older generations travel as smoothly as they did in their younger years.

    In this episode, you will learn:
    1. Why staying true to one's passions and authenticity in content creation is vital to success
    2. How AI tools can actually enhance creativity and significantly improve the content creation process
    3. Why innovative event design, from pairing unexpected speakers to enhancing attendee experiences, is key to curating memorable experiences

    Resources:

    Inside the Creator Economy - http://louderback.com/

    Connect with the Guest:

    Jim’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jlouderb/

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 145 of Earned, Conor Begley sits down with Vandana Tandon—Chief Brand Marketing Officer of global retail conglomerate L'Occitane Group. To start, Vandana pulls back the curtain on L'Occitane's social transformation—from having a minimal social media presence to becoming a power player in the beauty industry. We dive into L'Occitane's strategic adoption of Instagram and TikTok, and hear how fostering relationships with influencers and content creators has helped the company build word-of-mouth and authentically resonate with new generations of consumers. Next, Vandana discusses how large-scale marketing events and the synergy between organic social and paid ads have significantly boosted product interest and ad performance. She also emphasizes the importance of cultivating a cohesive team culture built on respect and understanding, and shares her strategies for managing teams across the globe. To close the show, Vandana reflects on her personal career journey, and highlights the importance of patience, continuous learning, and building a complementary leadership team.

    In this episode you will learn:
    1. How L'Occitane has transformed into a social media powerhouse under Vandana's leadership, focusing on Instagram, TikTok, and creator partnerships.
    2. Why building a cohesive team culture and global-local synergy have been key to brand success.
    3. Vandana's career insights on patience, continuous learning, and how to assemble a complementary team for marketing leadership.

    Resources:

    L'OCCITANE Group - https://group.loccitane.com/

    Connect with the Guest:

    Vandana’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vandanatandon/

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 144 of Earned, Conor Begley sits down with RJ Larese—VP of Talent & Influencer Marketing at entertainment powerhouse, Paramount, overseeing strategy for Paramount+, Nickelodeon, and Awesomeness. With over 14k followers on LinkedIn, RJ is also a thought leader in the creator economy. To start, RJ reveals his tried-and-true strategies for integrating creators into the brand ecosystem, redefining how traditional media competes with social media and gaming platforms for the attention of Gen Z and Gen Alpha. RJ explains how creators have become the heartbeat of modern media, from voicing animated characters to creating bespoke experiences at the Kids' Choice Awards. Next, we dive into RJ’s career journey, from getting his start in reality TV casting to climbing up to corporate leadership. RJ emphasizes the importance of a positive workplace culture and balancing hard work with leisure. To close the show, RJ shares his most transformative life lessons, including how his near-death experience reinforced the importance of a harmonious work-life balance.

    In this episode, you will learn:
    1. How integrating creators authentically into media can drive engagement and capture younger audiences
    2. Why embracing creators as modern celebrities is crucial for media relevance
    3. How work-life balance and positive workplace culture are essential for sustained success in entertainment

    Resources:

    Paramount - https://www.paramount.com/

    Connect with the Guest:

    RJ’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rjlarese/

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 143 of Earned, Conor Begley sits down with Monica Khan—former Executive Vice President of Creator Experience at Spotter, whose mission is to empower YouTube creators to accelerate their business and achieve creative freedom with transformative capital, innovative AI productivity software, expert knowledge, and a supportive community.To start, Monica takes us through her fascinating journey from the financial corridors of Wall Street to becoming a pivotal force in the digital media landscape, particularly at renowned companies like IGN Entertainment, YouTube, Facebook, and Spotter. Monica shares insights on how branded content partnerships can elevate creators' careers beyond traditional AdSense earnings. We hear about the monetization strategies across YouTube and Meta, and learn how each platform supports creators' revenue streams differently. Monica shares her expert views on the transition from transactional to relationship-based interactions, the crucial role of data and AI in content creation, and the emergence of new companies tackling the industry's evolving challenges. To close the show, we explore the rise of creator-led brands, using success stories like MrBeast and Preston Arsement to illustrate how creators are expanding their businesses while staying true to their creative roots.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    1. How Monica Khan's transition from Wall Street to YouTube illustrates the evolution of the creator economy.
    2. How differing monetization strategies between YouTube and Meta impact creators' revenue streams.
    3. How the rise of creator-led brands emphasizes the importance of authentic connections and community-driven marketing.

    Connect with the Guest:

    Monica’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/monicakhan/

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 142 of Earned, Conor Begley sits down with Chris Chesebro— Chief Digital Officer at Wella Company, an innovative global leader in the beauty industry with a portfolio of winning professional and retail hair, nails, and beauty tech brands. To start, we delve into the seismic shifts occurring in the beauty industry through digital innovation. Chris shares how his team harmonizes digital marketing strategies with MarTech and AdTech solutions to build beloved consumer brands while catering to diverse, country-specific needs. We hear how transitioning from a B2B to a B2B2C model and implementing innovative strategies on platforms like Amazon and Ulta have driven significant growth for Wella. Chris also emphasizes the importance of upskilling staff in digital tools like Google Analytics and Adobe Analytics. Switching gears, we dive into the vital role of social media in cultivating relationships within the professional hairdressing and nail art industry, and hear how Wella leverages affiliate partnerships and celebrates individual excellence. To close the show, Chris opens up about challenges and triumphs of navigating corporate spin-outs and digital transformations, before leaving us with his passions for cooking and wine.

    Tune in to learn:
    1. How transitioning from a B2B to a B2B2C model and implementing innovative strategies on platforms like Amazon and Ulta have driven significant growth for Wella
    2. Why Wella prioritizes building strong relationships with hair and nail professionals through affiliate partnerships
    3. How Wella’s corporate spin-out from COTY led to innovative brand building and future-focused growth.

    Resources:

    MMA Global - https://www.mmaglobal.com/

    Connect with the Guest:

    Chris’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrischesebro/?originalSubdomain=fr

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • REPLAY - In Ep. 71 of Earned, Conor sits down with Marc Hustvedt, president of the largest YouTube channel in America (137 MILLION subscribers at time of recording, now 312 MILLION): MrBeast. Marc’s impressive resume also includes founding ventures like Tubefilter, Supergravity Pictures, and the Streamy Awards. We start the episode by learning why Marc enjoys building new companies, and hear why he’s particularly interested in YouTubers. We ask Marc about the core elements that make a piece of content successful, and the reasons behind MrBeast’s most recent explosion in (billions of) views. Marc shares how the MrBeast team has leaned into TikTok, before explaining the importance of viewer acquisition with captivating video titles and thumbnails, and a few of the ways MrBeast optimizes its content for performance. We hear Marc’s take on the current monetization models of social platforms like YouTube and TikTok, and how MrBeast’s side ventures like Feastables and MrBeast Burger are now contributing a larger slice of the revenue pie. To close the show, we discuss the impact that MrBeast, aka Jimmy Donaldson, has had on his hometown of Greenville, North Carolina, and hear what’s in store for the company over the next 20 years.


    In this episode, you will learn:
    1. The keys to creating a successful piece of content
    2. The importance of catchy video titles and thumbnails for viewer acquisition
    3. How MrBeast grew a following of 213 million subscribers (and counting!)

    Resources:

    MrBeast Youtube: @mrbeast

    MrBeast Twitter: @mrbeast

    MrBeast Instagram: @mrbeast

    Shop MrBeast Merch: https://shopmrbeast.com/

    Connect with the Guest:

    Marc’s LinkedIn

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 141 of Earned, Conor Begley sits down with Anastasia Soare, founder and CEO of iconic beauty powerhouse, Anastasia Beverly Hills. To start, we discuss Anastasia’s journey from arriving in the U.S. in 1989 without knowing English, to transforming her passion for beauty into a billion-dollar empire. Anastasia shares the remarkable story behind building ABH from scratch, highlighting the importance of resilience, hard work, and family bonds. An influencer marketing pioneer in the early days of social media, Anastasia reveals how ABH’s authenticity and digital savvy fostered a loyal community of fans that took the brand—and consumers’ brows—to new heights. Switching gears, we dive into Anastasia’s artistic background, and she pulls back the curtain on how principles of light, shadow, and proportion from her art school days have influenced her makeup techniques, before emphasizing the brand’s commitment to solving customer problems with innovative products. To close the show, Anastasia shares her tips for managing a global enterprise while staying true to your brand’s core values.

    In this episode, you will learn:
    1. How Anastasia Soare’s resilience, passion, and visionary strategies propelled her journey from immigrant to beauty mogul
    2. Why organic community building played a crucial role in Anastasia Beverly Hills' runaway success
    3. How artistic principles and innovative problem-solving have kept ABH at the forefront of the beauty industry

    Resources:

    Anastasia Beverly Hills - https://www.anastasiabeverlyhills.com/

    Connect with the Guest:

    Anastasia’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anastasia-soare-337806125/

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 140 of Earned, Conor sits down with Paul Jauregui, co-founder of viral makeup brush brand BK Beauty. To start, Paul unpacks the remarkable journey of building a successful beauty brand with his wife, professional makeup artist and YouTube sensation Lisa J, from her early days as a makeup artist at MAC Cosmetics, to building a community of over 300k subscribers on YouTube. Next, we dive into the intricacies of social commerce, exploring how BK Beauty harnesses the power of TikTok, YouTube, and Shopify to streamline processes and cultivate authentic relationships with creators. Paul explains his strategic decision to build in-house distribution, and how it has been pivotal in scaling their operations. We then explore the critical role of influencer partnerships in e-commerce, and discuss the important balance between paid acquisition and organic growth. Paul also emphasizes the importance of maintaining brand integrity and positive values, and sheds light on BK Beauty's collaboration with the Kindness Campaign. To close the show, we take a look at the brand’s exciting upcoming events and collaborations, so keep an eye out!

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    How integrated, closed-loop systems can skyrocket social commerce growth on platforms like TikTok and YouTube

    Why BK Beauty chose to remain DTC in order to maintain operational control, efficiency, and authentic storytelling

    Why building genuine influencer relationships and balancing paid and organic strategies have been crucial for BK Beauty’s e-commerce expansion

    Resources:

    BK Beauty - https://www.bkbeauty.com/

    Connect with the Guest:

    Paul’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/myover/

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 139 of Earned, Conor sits down with Jenna Habayeb, CMO of trendy, washable rug brand Ruggable. To start, Jenna unpacks how she transitioned from a career in the beauty industry with Ipsy to the innovative world of home decor at Ruggable. We discuss the complexities and differences when it comes to marketing home decor compared to beauty products, including the role of creators and the logistical challenges of photo shoots. Jenna then emphasizes the importance of blending performance marketing with brand building, and shares her favorite strategies for driving community engagement and growth through PR, social media, influencers, and experiential marketing Next, we explore Ruggable's strategic collaborations with popular brands like Bridgerton and Pantone, and hear how the company swiftly responds to cultural trends (like launching products inspired by Beyonce's album release). To close the show, Jenna shares her take on the evolving role of a CMO, highlighting the importance of a full-funnel marketing approach, diversification of channels, and potential retail expansions.

    In this episode, you will learn:

    Why blending performance marketing with brand building is vital to Ruggable’s success The importance of agility in modern marketing and adapting to current trends How product satisfaction, unique value, and retail expansion helps Ruggable maintain its customer base

    Resources:

    Ruggable - https://ruggable.com/

    Connect with the Guest:

    Jenna’s LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/jennahabayeb/

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ's LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @CreatorIQOfficial

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In this week’s special double episode of Earned, we hear from both David Jones, founder and CEO of the Brandtech Group, and Heather Kehrberg, Director of Amazon Ads Creative Studios.

    To start, David Jones discusses the transformative impact of generative AI on the marketing and advertising industries. From founding the BrandTech Group in 2015 to achieving monumental growth, David shares how strategic investments, including in AI, drove the company's success. We unpack David’s experience pioneering AI chatbots, digital twins, and acquiring generative AI platform Pencil. We then dive into the shift from traditional advertising to AI-driven content creation, offering insights and career advice for aspiring professionals in a rapidly evolving landscape.

    We then pivot to our own Chris Curtis’ conversation with Amazon's Heather Kehrberg, which explores the power of creator marketing and brand storytelling. Heather reveals the strategic integration of video content and creator partnerships into Amazon's ad campaigns, and emphasizes the importance of authenticity to drive success. We close the show by unpacking CreatorIQ’s robust relationship with Amazon, and offer a forward-looking perspective on the evolving landscape of advertising and community building.

    In David's episode you will learn:
    1. How generative AI and machine-generated content have been instrumental in BrandTech Group's success
    2. How the shift from traditional TV advertising to social, and now Gen AI, is democratizing content creation
    3. Why early investments in trends like AI chatbots can propel your company forward and how these risks can pay off

    In Heather's episode you will learn:
    1. Why video content and authentic storytelling are essential for consumer engagement and brand loyalty
    2. How nostalgic and relatable campaigns, like McDonald's adult Happy Meal and Mars' M&M characters, effectively connect with diverse audiences.
    3. How future advertising trends will emphasize the creator economy by integrating creator content into broader marketing strategies.

    Resources:

    The BrandTech Group - https://thebrandtechgroup.com/

    Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/

    Connect with the Guest(s):

    David’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidjonesoyw/

    Heather’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherkehrberg/

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 137 of Earned, Conor sits down with Chris Harrington, the newly appointed CEO of CreatorIQ, for an in-depth conversation about his remarkable journey and strategic vision for the influencer marketing industry. Chris opens up about his rigorous evaluation process, CreatorIQ’s growth potential and alignment with his strategic vision. Drawing on personal experiences, including his wife Angie's successful influencer career and his daughter Jessa’s creation of a $15M clothing brand through social media, Chris underscores the critical role of authenticity in creator marketing. He shares valuable insights on personal branding, emphasizing the importance of a unique voice and trustworthy engagement for influencers. We also explore his professional background, including pivotal strategic decisions made during his tenure at Omniture, where real-time analytics and creative competitive strategies were key to success. Chris further delves into the complexities and triumphs of unifying corporate data at Domo, shedding light on the challenges of raising funds and engaging industry giants.

    Read our Q&A with Chris here!

    In this episode, you’ll learn:
    1. The significance of strategic vision, resilience, and collaboration among brands, agencies, social networks in the creator economy
    2. Why personal branding and maintaining a unique voice in influencer marketing is critical to success
    3. How Chris meticulously evaluated over 22 companies before choosing CreatorIQ for its robust industry potential and alignment with his vision.

    Resources:

    CreatorIQ - https://www.creatoriq.com/

    Connect with the Guest:

    Chris’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cch360/

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 136 of Earned, Conor sits down with Noella Gabriel, co-founder and global president of ELEMIS—the UK-based skincare line with beloved, collagen-powered products that helped the brand achieve an 87% YoY EMV growth. To start, we dive into Noella’s early years which were marked by an intense focus on voice training, and learn how this period of her life instilled a profound understanding of the connection between breath, body, and skin health—a philosophy that would later become a cornerstone of ELEMIS’ ethos. Noella recounts the pivotal moments, including a life-changing call from Linda Steiner, that sparked the birth of ELEMIS, and her enduring passion for essential oils and skin wellness. Next, Noella shares an insider's view of the innovative strategies that propelled ELEMIS to global success. We then discuss the brand’s digital innovation and global expansion, highlighting the strategic merger with L'Occitane. To close the show, Noella shares how she finds balance in everyday life through her love of music and being a mother.

    In this episode, you'll learn:

    1. How Noella’s passion for essential oils and holistic wellness formed the foundation of ELEMIS’ philosophy, emphasizing that today's choices impact tomorrow's skin

    2. Why long-term thinking and community-driven development are important in navigating challenges and sustaining brand growth

    3. How strategic decisions facilitated ELEMIS’ global expansion

    Resources:

    ELEMIS. - https://www.elemis.com/

    Connect with the Guest:

    Noella’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/noella-gabriel

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • Recorded live from the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, this week’s guest host Chris Curtis, Global Head of Strategic Accounts at CreatorIQ, sits down with Julie Haleluk, Global Head of Growth for Amazon Shopping Videos. To start, we dive into the transformative world of shoppable video content and its impact on digital marketing. Julie shares her professional journey from agency work to influential roles at DirectTV and AT&T, which eventually led her to Amazon. Next, Julie offers insight into how her diverse career background fuels her innovative approach to content development, marketing, and product management. We then discuss how Amazon has been a pioneer in shoppable video, with the rapid growth of Amazon Live, the introduction of the Amazon Live Fast channel, and its revolutionary Shop the Show technology. We explore the critical role of measurement in this evolving field, and unpack compelling case studies that highlight the potential for future growth within the Amazon ecosystem. To close the show, Julie shares her passion for future planning and being on the cutting edge of what's coming next.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    1. How empathy fosters effective collaboration and innovation in digital marketing.
    2. Why Amazon has made significant strides in integrating shoppable video content to create new opportunities for brands and consumers.
    3. How Amazon's focus on metrics like new-to-brand sales and the halo effect of creator content highlights the evolving landscape of digital marketing.

    Resources:

    Amazon Shopping Videos - https://www.aboutamazon.com/

    Connect with the Guest:

    Julie’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliehaleluk/

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ

  • In Ep. 134 of Earned, Conor sits down with Gregory Galant, co-founder and CEO of innovative PR-software company Muck Rack and The Shorty Awards—the first award show to honor digital and social media content. To start, we dive into Greg’s early adventures in podcasting before unpacking his role in reshaping the public relations landscape. Greg shares how his experience interviewing social media pioneers influenced his engagement with emerging platforms, leading to the viral success of the Shorty Awards and the inception of Muck Rack. Next, Greg explains how Muck Rack evolved from a free service for journalists into a comprehensive SaaS platform that revolutionized PR as the first-ever CRM for PR teams. We then discuss the intricacies of PR measurement, the importance of customer feedback, and the transformative potential of AI in the industry. To close the show, Greg shares what motivates him and how he finds fulfillment in creating tools that help professionals excel.

    In this episode, you’ll learn:

    How Muck Rack's media database and coverage reporting help prove the value and impact of PR. How Muck Rack transformed the industry by creating the first-ever CRM for PR teams. How early adoption can lead to innovative platforms that meet evolving industry needs—like the Shorty Awards.

    Resources:

    Muck Rack - https://muckrack.com/

    Connect with the Guest:

    Gregory’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/galant/

    Connect with Conor Begley & CreatorIQ:

    Conor’s LinkedIn - @conormbegley

    CreatorIQ LinkedIn - @creatoriq

    Follow us on social:

    CreatorIQ YouTube - @TribeDynamics

    CreatorIQ Instagram - @creatoriq

    CreatorIQ TikTok - @creator.iq

    CreatorIQ Twitter - @CreatorIQ