To the Point: A Pinkston Podcast

Pinkston

On 'To The Point,' innovative leaders discuss the future of their industries, the keys to effective communication, and how they tackle the toughest challenges in life and business.

Episodes

  1. 12/18/2025

    "Shorter Doesn't Mean Better" – Storytelling in an AI Era: Tod Plotkin, Green Buzz Agency

    In this episode of "To The Point," host Zach Crenshaw sits down with Tod Plotkin, CEO of Green Buzz Agency, to explore how AI, content creators, and changing audience expectations are reshaping video storytelling.  Plotkin shares lessons from 15+ years and 600+ clients, explaining why editing matters more than shooting, why "everything must be short" is a myth, and how the industry has democratized twice—first when cameras dropped from $250K to $3K, and now as AI tools put professional-grade capabilities in everyone's hands.  Whether you're a brand marketer, aspiring creator, or just curious about the future of video, this conversation offers a candid look at what's working, what's overhyped, and how to tell stories that actually move people in an algorithm-driven world. 00:00 - 01:07 - Intro to Tod + GreenBuzz 01:07 - 03:01 - How GreenBuzz actually started 03:01 - 05:59 - AI doesn't hit production equally 05:59 - 09:04 - We’ve seen this disruption before 09:04 - 12:20 - The budget reckoning 12:20 - 15:45 - Why “short” gets misunderstood 15:45 - 20:15 - The mistake most clients make 20:15 - 21:54 - Stop copying your competitors 21:54 - 25:16 - Who actually pushes AI forward? 25:16 - 29:51 - The gig economy illusion 29:51 - 32:21 - Storytelling vs. the algorithm 32:21 - 33:23 - Every story has a right length 33:23 - 38:41 - When shorter makes things worse 38:41 - 41:11 - Rapid-fire: leadership and life 41:11 - 41:27 - Outro

    "Shorter Doesn't Mean Better" – Storytelling in an AI Era: Tod Plotkin, Green Buzz Agency

  2. 12/08/2025

    From the Poker Table to Marketing The Chosen to Millions: Jeremiah Smith, 5&2 Studios

    From pastor to professional poker player to marketing executive behind The Chosen—Jeremiah Smith's career path is anything but conventional.  In this episode of To The Point, the Vice President of Marketing and Branding for 5&2 Studios shares how a chance meeting at a Bellagio poker tournament led him to work alongside Dallas Jenkins on a groundbreaking show that has reached 300 million people worldwide and holds the Guinness World Record as the most translated series in history.  Smith reveals the marketing secrets behind The Chosen's devoted fanbase, debunks the myth that "Hollywood doesn't want you to see this," and offers an exclusive look at what's next for 5&2 Studios, including a theatrical film about the crucifixion, Joseph of Egypt, Moses, and The Chosen Adventures animated series. Whether you're in marketing, entertainment, or simply curious about one of entertainment's biggest success stories, this conversation offers invaluable lessons on authentic storytelling, audience-first strategies, and leadership under pressure.

    From the Poker Table to Marketing The Chosen to Millions: Jeremiah Smith, 5&2 Studios

  3. 06/20/2025

    The Art of Storytelling, Lessons from Hollywood and Higher Ed: Rick Rekedal, Belmont University

    In this episode of To The Point: A Pinkston Podcast, Rick Rekedal discusses the art of storytelling, drawing from his 20+ years at DreamWorks and his current role as Chief Creative Officer at Belmont University. He shares insights on connecting deeply with audiences, the creative struggle behind memorable stories, and the enduring power of play in both childhood and adulthood. Rick reflects on the lessons he has learned throughout his award-winning career, how technology and AI are shaping the future of creativity, and why reading a physical book still holds value.

    The Art of Storytelling, Lessons from Hollywood and Higher Ed: Rick Rekedal, Belmont University

  4. 04/11/2025

    From Cold Emails to Board Rooms and Mentoring the Next Generation: Charles Pierre, TikTok

    In this episode of ‘To The Point: A Pinkston Podcast,' Charles Pierre, Senior Privacy Counsel at TikTok, discusses his career journey, his perspectives on privacy in tech, and his innovative mentorship platform, Alfalfa Haus.  He shares valuable insights into the evolving landscape of data privacy and the importance of intentionally cultivating mentors while giving back to younger professionals. 00:00:12 Introduction 00:01:17 Privacy by Design and Simplifying Policies   00:05:28 Balancing Privacy and Social Contracts 00:13:27 Mentorship and Vernon Jordan's Influence 00:21:21 Alfalfa Haus: Tackling Loneliness Through Community

    From Cold Emails to Board Rooms and Mentoring the Next Generation: Charles Pierre, TikTok

  5. 12/05/2024

    Empowering Students and Educators to Revitalize Public Schools: Shannon Buerk, Engage2Learn

    Shannon Buerk, CEO of Engage2Learn, joined ‘To The Point: A Pinkston Podcast’ to share how her organization transforms public schools, improves student outcomes, and reignites teachers' passion. With a wealth of experience as a former teacher and administrator, Buerk offers valuable insights into public education's challenges and opportunities today.

    Empowering Students and Educators to Revitalize Public Schools: Shannon Buerk, Engage2Learn

  6. 11/04/2024

    Redefining How Hospitals Care For Patients: Rick Pollack, American Hospital Association

    In this episode of 'To The Point: A Pinkston Podcast,' Rick Pollack breaks down the future of American healthcare and the role that hospitals play in caring for patients – whether reactively in a traditional hospital bed or proactively using telehealth and preventative in-home visits. The CEO of the American Hospital Association (AHA) discusses the unique challenges facing urban and rural hospitals, the growing threat of cyberattacks, and the importance of using artificial intelligence responsibly. Drawing from his decades of experience and distinct vantage point, Pollack offers a comprehensive look at the healthcare landscape and the solutions leaders must prioritize. Learn more about ‘To The Point’ at pinkston.co

    Redefining How Hospitals Care For Patients: Rick Pollack, American Hospital Association

  7. 10/08/2024

    How America Can Leverage Tech to Dominate Global Innovation: Gary Shapiro, Consumer Technology Association

    In this episode of To The Point, Gary Shapiro discusses the importance of innovation in the U.S. and its role in global competition. The CEO of the Consumer Technology Association shares insights into the regulation and  revolutions happening in China, Europe, and across the globe and breaks down what it will take for America to continue leading on the most pressing challenges. Shapiro also discusses his latest book, 'Pivot or Die: How Leaders Thrive When Everything Changes' and his message to young people, politicians, and entrepreneurs. Learn more about To The Point at pinkston.co

    How America Can Leverage Tech to Dominate Global Innovation: Gary Shapiro, Consumer Technology Association
  • 7 Episodes

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On 'To The Point,' innovative leaders discuss the future of their industries, the keys to effective communication, and how they tackle the toughest challenges in life and business.

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