The Paid Media Playbook

Double Z Media

Welcome to The Paid Media Playbook — where marketing leaders share what’s really working. ‍Each episode, we go beyond paid media to explore the strategies, insights, and behind-the-scenes lessons shaping modern marketing. From brand building to measurement, comms to creative, no topic is off-limits. You’ll hear from a diverse mix of Marketing Directors, Creators, Researchers, Agency Leaders, and Founders — all pushing the edge of what’s possible in their fields. Whether you're leading a marketing team or just love smart marketing conversations, this show is your playbook for what’s next.

  1. 09/22/2025

    Navigating Senior Living Marketing with Amanda Warren of Merrill Gardens

    In this episode, Amanda Warren, VP of Marketing at Merrill Gardens, shares her journey about marketing for the senior living industry, and how her career evolved over more than 15 years at Merrill Gardens. Amanda discusses the changes in marketing strategies over the years, the unique challenges of marketing to seniors and their families, the integration of digital marketing, and the importance of consistency. She also highlights the critical role of trust and human connection in the sales process and provides insights into future trends as the boomer generation reaches the age for senior living. 00:00 Introduction to Amanda Warren 00:48 Amanda's Career Journey 01:26 Overview of Merrill Gardens 02:04 Marketing Strategies in Senior Living 02:38 Target Audiences in Senior Living 04:14 Digital Marketing in Senior Living 05:11 Sales and Marketing Collaboration 07:12 Consistent Marketing Practices 08:31 Future Challenges in Senior Living 11:57 Building Trust in Senior Living 15:47 Amanda's Advice for Her Younger Self 16:47 Conclusion and Farewell Find out more from Amanda, check out: https://www.merrillgardens.com/  https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-warren-3713598/  Links and Resources: Lisa Wekellis on LinkedIn Laura Szczes on LinkedIn Double Z Media Website Double Z Media on LinkedIn Thanks for tuning in! Subscribe to The Paid Media Playbook on iTunes and Spotify, and leave us a review!

    17 min
  2. 08/01/2025

    Optimism Meets Elevation: Building a Creative Career with Tyler Cartier

    In this episode, we delve into the creative journey of Tyler Cartier, a revered mentor and influential figure in the world of branding and design. Tyler shares his rich experiences working on high-profile projects including Microsoft, Amazon, and notably, the Space Needle. He discusses his unique approach to creativity and branding, particularly his memorable 'Space Lift' campaign for the Space Needle. The episode also covers Tyler's thoughts on the soulful essence of art, the limitations of AI in capturing true creativity, and the importance of remaining true to oneself. Finally, Tyler shares insights on transitioning into retirement while maintaining a creative spirit through painting and other endeavors, emphasizing the need for continuous personal growth and the power of sincere effort in all creative pursuits. 00:00 Introduction to Tyler Cartier 00:50 Tyler's Career Highlights 01:48 The Space Needle Project 05:42 Branding and Creativity Insights 10:17 Millstone Coffee and Creative Naming 12:25 The Art of Copywriting 16:05 AI vs. Human Creativity 20:00 Life After Retirement: Embracing Creativity 24:53 The Reality of Creative Work 25:34 The Tangibility of Starbucks vs. Software 26:21 The Challenge of Writing for Software 27:14 The Importance of Sincerity in Work 28:34 Exploring Art Contests and Cafe Art 30:34 The Joy of Sharing Art 31:21 Encouraging Creative Expression 33:36 Balancing Creativity and Marketing 40:39 Advice for a Fulfilling Career 41:49 Flipping the Switch: A Personal Transformation Links and Resources: Lisa Wekellis on LinkedInLaura Szczes on LinkedInDouble Z Media WebsiteDouble Z Media on LinkedIn Thanks for tuning in! Subscribe to The Paid Media Playbook on iTunes and Spotify, and leave us a review!

    45 min
  3. 06/16/2025

    Unlocking Sponsorship Success: Tips and Tales from Rachel Horgan

    In this episode, we welcome Rachel Horgan, a multi-talented Seattle expert and event organizer, to discuss her insights on securing sponsorships for events as well as her experiences with her podcast. Rachel shares valuable strategies for obtaining event sponsors, stressing the importance of being intentional and authentic in your approach. She also discusses different types of successful sponsorships and how to measure their impact, even when ROI can be hard to quantify. Later, Rachel delves into her podcasting journey, offering tips on how to attract sponsors and the challenges of maintaining a podcast. She aligns her sponsorship strategies with her podcast's brand values and audience, advocating for creativity and authenticity. Finally, Rachel discusses her recent ventures, including her work with Seafair and her freelance journey, offering career advice and the importance of trusting the process. 00:00 Introduction to Rachel Horgan 00:52 Getting Sponsorships for Events 01:31 Effective Event Sponsorship Strategies 03:16 Measuring Sponsorship Success 04:20 Challenges in Event Planning 05:52 Creative Sponsorship Ideas 06:42 Red Flags in Sponsorships 08:22 Starting and Sustaining a Podcast 13:00 Discussing Sponsorships and Paid Media 13:27 Networking and Event Promotion Strategies 13:58 Challenges and Opportunities in Social Media 15:19 Ideal Sponsors and Live Podcasting 18:27 Exploring New Ventures and Freelance Work 20:14 Final Reflections and Advice Listen to Rachel’s podcast, The Weekly Links and Resources: Rachel Horgan on LinkedInLisa Wekellis on LinkedInLaura Szczes on LinkedInDouble Z Media WebsiteDouble Z Media on LinkedIn Thanks for tuning in! Subscribe to The Paid Media Playbook on iTunes and Spotify, and leave us a review!

    22 min
  4. 06/09/2025

    Building Trust: Erika Hermanson's Journey in Healthcare Communications

    In this episode of the Paid Media Playbook, we engage in a compelling conversation with Erika Hermanson, the Director of Communications at Providence Swedish. Erika shares her inspiring journey into communications, tracing her passion back to high school and her involvement in the Future Business Leaders of America. The discussion delves into the challenges and triumphs of healthcare communications, particularly during the COVID-19 crisis. Erika highlights the 'Proudly Providence Swedish' campaign, which celebrates the stories of caregivers and their connection to the organization. The episode also explores the roles of paid and organic social media, the importance of aligning communication with organizational values, and offers career advice for budding professionals. 00:00 Introduction to the Paid Media Playbook 00:40 Meet Erika Hermanson: Director of Communications at Providence Swedish 00:50 Erika's Journey into Communications 02:22 Challenges in Healthcare Communications 03:41 Proudly Providence Swedish Campaign 06:25 The Role of Social Media in Healthcare 10:09 Transitioning from Agency to In-House 13:16 Providence Swedish Values and Mission 18:20 Advice for Aspiring Communicators 20:07 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Links and Resources: Erika Hermanson on LinkedInLisa Wekellis on LinkedInLaura Szczes on LinkedInDouble Z Media WebsiteDouble Z Media on LinkedIn Thanks for tuning in! Subscribe to The Paid Media Playbook on iTunes and Spotify, and leave us a review!

    21 min

About

Welcome to The Paid Media Playbook — where marketing leaders share what’s really working. ‍Each episode, we go beyond paid media to explore the strategies, insights, and behind-the-scenes lessons shaping modern marketing. From brand building to measurement, comms to creative, no topic is off-limits. You’ll hear from a diverse mix of Marketing Directors, Creators, Researchers, Agency Leaders, and Founders — all pushing the edge of what’s possible in their fields. Whether you're leading a marketing team or just love smart marketing conversations, this show is your playbook for what’s next.