Best VML Podcasts (2025)

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EP 284 - The Man Who Invented Skippable Ads | Walter Geer: Stroke, Success, & VML 46:14

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23d ago46:14

46:14

Nathan invites Walter T Geer III, Chief Creative Officer at VML who shares his extensive career in advertising, a life-altering experience he had with a stroke, diversity in advertising and the need for community support, particularly for Black and Brown talent. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/3rdgeer/ Watch the full episode on YouTube. Watch…

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If You Work More Than 40 Hours, Your Business Is Broken (EP 287) 37:50

2d ago37:50

37:50

EP 287 - How to Scale when Revenue Goes Flat Nathan welcomes back Don Elliott from Gravitate to drop some absolute diamonds on the reality of running a marketing agency in today's economy. Don gets incredibly transparent about Gravitate hitting a plateau, the struggle of selling high-ticket websites to small businesses, and the major pivot they are…

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EP 286 - Why PREMIUM Pricing is a Game Changer 31:28

9d ago31:28

31:28

Nathan invites Laurier back on to discuss premium pricing and positioning for those businesses not leveraging this tactic. Laurier's daily newsletter spurred the conversation because he knows the need for businesses to articulate their unique value proposition clearly. For any good business, understanding your positioning strategy is key. Watch the…

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EP 285 - B2B Holiday Marketing Strategy Stop Taking a Break and Set Up Q1 Wins 37:33

16d ago37:33

37:33

Nathan Webster brings on Jay and Rae talk about last-minute holiday marketing strategies for B2B businesses. Please don't stop creating engaging content! Continue to leverage AI tools and understand client relationships to maximize success during the holiday season. Rae emphasized the priority on making timely offers and maintaining marketing effor…

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EP 283 - Marketing Lessons From Unexpected Places 10:58

30d ago10:58

10:58

Feeling stuck? Nathan shares the (3) unexpected places to help you break through the noise. 1. Promotion: Get aggressive! Tweak your approach to push your brand to new heights. 2. Advertisement: Utilize both your time and your money to get noticed in people's feeds. 3. Social Media: Use the free platform data (views, retention, engagement) to measu…

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The One-Customer Mindset: Unifying Your App, Web, and In-Store Experience 39:07

1M ago39:07

39:07

In an era of high customer expectations, a great app or website is no longer enough. Success demands a seamless, consistent experience across every single touchpoint. But why do so many organizations still struggle with disconnected channels, treating their mobile, web, and in-store experiences as separate entities? On this episode, host Nick Brunk…

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EP 282 - Deploying B2B Sales Strategy with Kevin Downey 27:26

1M ago27:26

27:26

Nathan invited sales expert Kevin M. Downey to share his B2B lead generation problem. Kevin explains the difference between a Sales Rep and a Business Development Rep. Learn how he created a solution for businesses to stop relying on referrals and build a scalable system using cost-effective, full-time reps, including outsourcing to Latin America, …

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EP 281 - What Happens When You IGNORE Marketing (2 of 2) 29:00

1M ago29:00

29:00

Nathan is joined once again by the incredibly authentic and vulnerable business owner, Crystal, as they go into why marketing shouldn't be ignored and focus on the personal benefits. Crystal shares personal stories, including a hilarious exchange with her engineer husband, that reveal how embracing marketing has helped her in her personal life as w…

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EP 280 - What Happens When You IGNORE Marketing? (1 of 2) 31:36

2M ago31:36

31:36

Nathan invites Crystal back on, but this time to share about her marketing journey. She shares the importance of self-investment and personal branding as crucial elements for growth and success in her business, as she helps other businesses. They discuss how authenticity plays a significant role in building a brand and the necessity of having coach…

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The Power of AI Agents 24:35

2M ago24:35

24:35

Ever wonder what lies beyond your everyday ChatGPT? Join the VML Canada Innovation Team as they dive deep into the world of AI Agents – specialized, self-enclosed chatbots designed to be experts in one thing. This episode unpacks what agents are, how they work, and crucial best practices for leveraging their power... and avoiding their potential pi…

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EP 279 - Is Your Brands Vibe Actually Visible? 28:51

2M ago28:51

28:51

Nathan brings back his besties, Jay and Rae. They discuss the importance of brand visibility and messaging consistency. The topic was on focused on the visibility of a Brand's vibe, and the conversation was on how AI can assist in branding, the significance of storytelling, and the need for trust in the branding process. They shared personal storie…

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EP 278 - What Makes a HISTORIC Marketing Agency Struggle 40:50

2M ago40:50

40:50

Nathan welcomes back Don Elliott from Gravitate. They discuss the challenges and changes in the marketing industry over the past few years, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the recent economic downturn. Don shares how his agency adapted its business model, pivoting from tech startups to nonprofits, improved client management, the e…

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Cannes Innovation Recap 19:23

2M ago19:23

19:23

2025 Cannes Innovation Recap: The Fourth Judge (00:03:00): Jeremy shares a mind-blowing AI-powered judge for boxing from Big Time Creative Shop in Riyadh. Discover how AI is tackling subjectivity and bias in sports, trained on a century of boxing history to provide unbiased real-time analysis. Is this the future of fair play? https://www.youtube.co…

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EP 277 - Whats Up with the LinkedIn Ad and Algorithm 25:15

2M ago25:15

25:15

Nathan brought Jay back to dive deeper into the intricacies of LinkedIn advertising, discussing the challenges and strategies involved in B2B marketing. From the differences between B2B and B2C marketing, the significance of budget allocation in ad campaigns, and best practices for optimizing LinkedIn profiles, Jay shares his journey into digital m…

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EP 276 - The Balance between Entrepreneurship and Self-care 23:08

3M ago23:08

23:08

Nathan brought back Keith to discuss the challenges faced by purpose-driven entrepreneurs, including the importance of serving others while maintaining personal well-being. The conversation was about balance in entrepreneurship, the significance of letting go of certain expectations, and the value of authentic networking at conferences. Watch the f…

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Art, Algorithm, and the Aisle: Redefining Creative Effectiveness 36:28

3M ago36:28

36:28

How is creative effectiveness being redefined in a world powered by first-party data and retail media? In this episode, Nick Brunker is joined by Mari Sokolowski, Performance Marketing Personalization Lead at Haleon, to explore the evolution of creative from a static asset to a living, dynamic system. They discuss how brands are adapting to retaile…

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EP 275 - Aren't Marketing Agencies all the Same? (Watch Video to know Why they're NOT) 26:57

3M ago26:57

26:57

Nathan had Jay and Réland back to cover all things marketing. They discuss various aspects of marketing, personal experiences, and the intersection of life and work. They emphasize the importance of specialization in marketing, share personal stories about family life, and explore innovations in marketing tools. Watch the full video HERE. #marketin…

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EP 274 - Unlocking Financial Success: The Role of a Fractional CFO 33:38

3M ago33:38

33:38

Nathan brings Crystal back on to discuss the importance of financial literacy and the role of a fractional CFO in helping businesses understand their financial health. The conversation emphasizes the need for business owners to be proactive in managing their finances and the value of coaching in achieving business success. Guest Name: Crystal Haigh…

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EP 274 - Laurier Mandin, the Journey of a Marketing Veteran 26:43

3M ago26:43

26:43

Nathan brings on fellow marketing expert Laurier Mandin, who shares his extensive experience in the field. Laurier shares the significance of creativity and resilience in business, recounting personal stories of overcoming obstacles and the loneliness that often accompanies the entrepreneurial journey. Guest Name: Laurier Mandin Title: President & …

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EP 272 - Unlocking the Google Algorithm 32:19

4M ago32:19

32:19

Nathan invites Lindsey Busfield, the Vice President and Partner at Optimize My Firm, a company specializing in SEO for law firms. Lindsey shares her unique journey into the niche of legal marketing, emphasizing the importance of niching down, becoming an expert in SEO, and understanding market needs. The conversation covers common mistakes business…

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Beyond the Blue Links: The New Playbook for AI-Powered Search 42:22

4M ago42:22

42:22

The game has changed. For over a decade, marketers mastered the art of climbing Google's rankings. But with the rise of AI Overviews and conversational search, the classic "10 blue links" are fading. We're in a new era where answers are synthesized and clicks are no longer the primary goal. How can brands survive ...and thrive... in this new landsc…

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EP 271 - Is Going IPO for You 55:20

4M ago55:20

55:20

Nathan brings Chris Magaña, the Money Nerd, back on to talk about the intricacies of capital investment, the evolving landscape of IPOs, and creative financing solutions for entrepreneurs. Also, Chris's experiences with one's business model and exploring non-dilutive funding options to ensure sustainable growth. Guest Name: Chris Magaña Title: Priv…

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EP 270 - Mastering Digital Avatars in Marketing 31:12

4M ago31:12

31:12

Nathan invites Jason Henneberry to discuss the importance of digital avatars in marketing, the real estate evolution of the industry with AI, and strategies for building a brand on social media. They chat about the challenges in Canada's real estate and conversion strategies for leads. Guest Name: Jason Henneberry Title: Real Estate Marketing Coach…

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EP 269 - Beyond the Grind: Supporting Emerging Entrepreneurs 14:13

4M ago14:13

14:13

Nathan brings Emmanuel back to the show to discuss the journey of emerging entrepreneurs, the mental challenges they face, and the importance of understanding the difference between self-employment and true entrepreneurship. Guest Name: Emmanuel Williams Title: Economic Justice & Development Director Company: Black United Fund of Oregon Expertise: …

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EP 268 - The Future of Marketing: AI's Impact on Strategies 18:17

4M ago18:17

18:17

Nathan speaks with Joe Kimemia from Nairobi, Kenya, about the evolving landscape of marketing in Africa, and the impact of AI. Joe shares on how AI is transforming marketing strategies, enabling faster content production, and leveling the playing field for smaller agencies. Guest Name: Joe Kimemia Title: CEO & Marketing Expert Company: Shupav Exper…

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EP 267 - Marketing Entrepreneurs Stop Treating Yourself as a Side Piece 26:31

5M ago26:31

26:31

Nathan and Rae focus on how people often create comforting stories to stay within their comfort zones, hindering their financial success, but you can achieve #financialfreedom with the right #mindset. The video is to help the viewers they're not alone and to confront these self-made fears, recognizing they are not real obstacles, and to embrace #pe…

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When the Product is Trust: Marketing Human Vulnerability in Healthcare 45:27

5M ago45:27

45:27

On this episode of Human Centered, host Nick Brunker sits down with Jenny Collopy, Vice President and Chief Marketing and Communications Officer for The Christ Hospital Network, to explore the unique and complex role of the healthcare CMO. They discuss how to build a brand when the customer's journey is one of the most personal they will ever under…

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EP 266 - Niche Expertise: Finding Your Unique Selling Proposition 1:02:50

5M ago1:02:50

1:02:50

Nathan (NDub) invites childhood friend and entrepreneur Dan Whiteley to chat about building a profitable niche while sharing their childhood memories. Dan shares insights from his experience running A.L. Merryman Company, a specialized executive search firm in the construction industry, and discusses the impact of AI on the sector. He also covers t…

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EP 265 - The Simple Path for Building Wealth 37:29

5M ago37:29

37:29

Nathan (aka, NDUB) invites Chris Magaña back on the show to discuss the steps to building wealth for beginners. Chris, the money nerd, talks on the importance of assessing one's current financial situation, understanding spending habits, and the significance of discipline in wealth building. He also touches on the need to embrace struggles and the …

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EP 264 - AI and Cybersecurity Risks for Small Businesses 23:32

5M ago23:32

23:32

Nathan interviews Mark Tishenko, founder of edgefi, discussing the critical intersection of cybersecurity and AI. Mark emphasizes the need for proactive measures against internal and external threats and the role of AI in shaping the future of cybersecurity. Cybersecurity is essential for protecting businesses from various threats, including phishi…

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EP 263 - Building a Great Team Culture Fit is Key 28:27

6M ago28:27

28:27

Nathan brings Mac Prichard back to discuss the evolving landscape of workplace culture, particularly in the context of remote work and AI. Mac emphasizes the need for clear communication of mission and values during recruitment and the significance of investing in management training to foster a healthy team culture. The conversation also touches o…

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Ep 262 - The Hidden Costs of Overlooking a Marketing Strategy 28:48

6M ago28:48

28:48

Nathan Webster (aka, NDUB) invites Amanda Farley ( AIMClear's CMO ) to discuss the hidden costs of overlooking a marketing strategy. They cover the importance of brand authority, authenticity in marketing, and the role of social media algorithms. Amanda shares insights on humanizing content with AI, effective content distribution strategies, and th…

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The Predictive CX Era: Nick Yecke on AI, Ethics, and Anticipating Customer Needs 54:19

6M ago54:19

54:19

On this episode of Human Centered, host Nick Brunker welcomes Nick Yecke, Executive Director of Experience Strategy at VML, to explore the fascinating evolution of customer experience (CX). Inspired by Yecke's recent article in eXp Magazine, they chart a course through CX's history, from the early "Service Era" and "Satisfaction Era" through the "R…

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Ep 261 - Unhinged Marketing and Business Problems 25:45

6M ago25:45

25:45

Nathan has Réland Logan back on they were all over the place discussing various topics ranging from community issues in Portland to marketing strategies. They delve into the impact of Prosper Portland on small businesses and the importance of understanding marketing tactics versus strategy. The conversation highlights the challenges of outreach and…

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Ep 260 - How to Close Deals because You Love It! 33:14

6M ago33:14

33:14

Nathan invites Gene Slade to discuss the importance of effective sales strategies and the mindset needed to succeed in business. Gene shares his journey from working in the trades to becoming a successful sales trainer, emphasizing the significance of understanding customer needs and selling solutions rather than products. The conversation delves i…

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Ep 259 - Money Nerd Chris breaks down Wealth College and Money 26:58

7M ago26:58

26:58

Nathan invites Chris Magaña, a private wealth manager, to chat about the complexities of money. Chris wears many hats as a father (his favorite), husband, son, uncle, lawyer, investor, professor, author, financial management guru, and community leader, and many, many more, which is why Nathan wanted him on the show. Chris shares the impact of AI on…

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Ep 258 - Building a Business around Passion 27:43

7M ago27:43

27:43

In this episode of Let's Talk Marketing with NDUB, Luke Wagener sits down with Armando Franca, a former soccer player turned entrepreneur, to talk about his powerful journey from Brazil to the United States. They explore how Armando balanced education and competitive soccer, and how his passion led to the launch of of his own organization and busin…

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Ep 257 - College to Entrepreneur 27:15

7M ago27:15

27:15

In this episode of Let's Talk Marketing with NDUB, Nathan Webster sits down with intern Luke Wagener to explore the powerful intersection of entrepreneurship and education. Luke opens up about his journey from Germany to the U.S. He shares how his college experience helped shape his drive for personal growth and his long-term entrepreneurial ambiti…

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Ep 256 - The Story of Sofia Carvajal 24:58

7M ago24:58

24:58

In this episode of Let's Talk Marketing with NDUB, Nathan Webster talks to Sofia Carvajal, a professional soccer player, influencer and entrepreneur who shares her inspiring journey from Colombia to the United States. Sofia shares how she earned a scholarship through playing pro in Colombia to pursue her passion for women's soccer at Oklahoma City …

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Ep 255 - AI will Take Your Job if You Let it! 28:57

8M ago28:57

28:57

In this episode of Let's Talk Marketing with NDUB, Nathan Webster and Réland Logan explore the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on job security in the creative industries, addressing top concerns like "Will AI take my job?" and "How is AI changing the future of work?". Rae and Nathan cover the key difference between AI automation and augmenta…

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Ep 254 - My Trip to Kenya! 19:06

8M ago19:06

19:06

In this episode of Let's Talk Marketing with NDUB, Nathan Webster dives into his unforgettable trip to Nairobi, Kenya, where culture, business, and personal discovery intersected. He shares insights from engaging with local marketing professionals, reflects on the contrast between Portland and Nairobi airport experiences, and highlights the vibrant…

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Ep 253- Why Is Marketing Important In Business? 12:27

8M ago12:27

12:27

In this episode of Let's Talk Marketing with NDUB, Nathan Webster discusses the critical importance of marketing in business. He emphasizes that marketing is an investment that requires careful planning and strategy. The conversation covers key topics such as brand awareness, engagement strategies, personalization in marketing, and the significance…

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Questions Are the Future: Redefining Creativity in an AI World 39:57

8M ago39:57

39:57

On this episode of Human Centered, host Nick Brunker welcomes Jason Gaikowski, VML's Chief Transformation Officer, to explore how AI is transforming creativity in marketing. Jason describes our industry's "engagement addiction" as creating "junk food for the soul" and argues we're experiencing an "event horizon" - a profound shift comparable to the…

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Ep 252 - DIY Marketing - Building a Website 15:49

8M ago15:49

15:49

In this episode of Let's Talk Marketing with NDUB, Nathan Webster emphasizes the importance of DIY marketing, particularly focusing on building your own website and owning your domain. He discusses the significance of creating quality content and how a website serves as a business plan. Nathan encourages listeners to leverage their digital presence…

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Ep 251 - The Era of Zero-Click Search 35:42

8M ago35:42

35:42

In this episode of Let's Talk Marketing with NDUB, Nathan Webster and Amanda Farley discuss the critical topic of zero click search and its implications for businesses. They explore how Google is evolving into an answer engine, leading to significant traffic drops for many companies. The conversation emphasizes the need for businesses to adapt thei…

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Ep 250 - Why a Brand Strategist says "Your Website Sucks" 33:46

9M ago33:46

33:46

In this episode of Let's Talk Marketing with NDUB, Nathan Webster and Réland Logan discuss the critical aspects of website design and brand strategy. They explore why many websites fail to meet user expectations, emphasizing the importance of clarity, purpose, and regular updates. The conversation highlights the need for a user-centric approach, wh…

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EP 249 - Business Lending 101 34:09

9M ago34:09

34:09

In this episode of Let's Talk Marketing with NDUB, Nathan Webster invited Crystal Haight and Dina Kroshkin to discuss their journey in the finance industry, emphasizing the importance of financial knowledge for business owners. They explore the dynamics of good and bad debt, the significance of strategic partnerships, and how to become a desirable …

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Ep 248 - The 3 Reasons why Streaming Wins over Cable 14:40

9M ago14:40

14:40

In this episode of Let's Talk Marketing with NDUB, Nathan Webster discusses the advantages of streaming over cable television from a marketing perspective. He outlines three main reasons: affordability, quality content, and the importance of understanding consumer needs. Nathan emphasizes that streaming services are more accessible and flexible, al…

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Ep 247 - Hiring Mistakes to Avoid with Mac Prichard 46:46

9M ago46:46

46:46

In this episode of Let's Talk Marketing with NDUB, Nathan Webster engages with Mac Pritchard, founder of Mac's List, discussing the nuances of hiring and job searching. Mac shares his journey from a communications professional to a job board operator, emphasizing the importance of human connections in hiring. The conversation delves into common hir…

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Reimagining Websites for the Age of AI and Hyper-Personalization 44:40

10M ago44:40

44:40

On this episode of Human Centered, host Nick Brunker welcomes Dave Altis, Chief Experience Design Officer at VML, to explore the future of websites. As AI and Web3 technologies rapidly evolve, they discuss the limitations of current platforms and the impending shift towards agent-driven, hyper-personalized experiences. Dave shares insights on how b…