1D AGO

Storytelling That Sticks: Influence, Trust & Standing Out in a Noisy World with Gabrielle Dolan

In the Season 3 opener of CMO Chapters, Lucy Bolan sits down with storytelling expert Gabrielle “Ral” Dolan for a refreshingly honest conversation about why storytelling isn’t just a “nice to have” - it’s a core leadership skill. From leaving corporate to build a business around storytelling (long before it was fashionable), to unpacking how stories drive emotion, trust and decision-making, Ral shares what actually works - and what doesn’t. They explore how storytelling cuts through in a world of AI and content overload, why most leaders get it wrong, and how marketers, candidates and executives can use simple, human stories to connect, influence and stand out. If you’ve ever been told to “tell your story” but weren’t quite sure how - this episode makes it feel a whole lot clearer. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why storytelling is one of the most underrated leadership skillsThe real reason stories influence decisions (hint: it’s not logic)How to make your message land - and actually be rememberedThe difference between telling a story and just talking for too longHow CMOs can use storytelling to bring values and culture to lifePractical ways to use storytelling in job interviewsWhy personal stories often carry more weight than professional onesHow to avoid sounding like everyone else in a world full of AI-generated contentThe simple structure that keeps your stories clear, sharp and impactful Key Takeaways:Emotion drives decisions - not logic alone We like to think we’re rational, especially in business. We’re not. Stories tap into emotion, and that’s what people remember and act on. Stories build credibility in a way words can’t Anyone can say “I value collaboration” or “customer experience matters.” A story proves it - and that’s what people trust. Shorter is stronger If your story is running over two minutes, you’ve probably lost people. The best ones are tight, clear and focused on one message. Personal stories are the secret weapon They’re underused - and often the most powerful. They show who you are, not just what you’ve done. Storytelling is a skill, not a talent Some people are naturally good at it, but everyone can get better with the right structure and practice. Your employees are your best storytellers Not just marketing. Not just leadership. Everyone in the business plays a role in shaping the brand story. Resources & Mentions:Story Intelligence by Gabrielle DolanStephen Denning - The Leader’s Guide to StorytellingAristotle’s model of influence: Logos, Ethos, Pathos Connect with Our Guest:Gabrielle Dolan on LinkedIn Follow the Podcast & New Chapter Talent: Instagram: @NewChapterTalent LinkedIn: New Chapter Talent || CMO Chapters Podcast This podcast is brought to you by New Chapter Talent recruitment. If you're hunting for a fulfilling new role or seeking the right talent for your company, contact Lucy Bolan today! Website: https://www.newchaptertalent.com.au/contact-us LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-chapter-talent/ Email: lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au Chapters: (00:00) Welcome to CMO Chapters (00:43) Introducing Gabrielle Dolan (01:35) Gabrielle’s career journey into storytelling (03:05) Why storytelling mattered in business before it was mainstream (06:45) Is storytelling natural talent or a skill you can build? (08:55) Why stories are so effective and memorable (11:19) Storytelling, AI and building trust (12:43) How leaders can use personal stories to bring values to life (17:43) The biggest storytelling mistake: stories that go too long (19:08) Using storytelling in interviews and career progression (27:26) Why storytelling is a career skill, not just a marketing skill (37:26) What’s next for Gabrielle and why storytelling is a life skill (39:55) Closing thoughts on the road to CMO

41 min

10/13/2025

Bold Moves, Retail Reinvention & the Power of Resilience with Ryan Gracie

In the Series 2 finale of CMO Chapters, Lucy Bolan sits down with Ryan Gracie, Chief Customer & Revenue Officer at BIG W (Woolworths Group), for a candid conversation about bold brand building, customer-led growth, and leading through change. From agency beginnings to senior retail leadership, Ryan shares the wins, the missteps, and the mindset that’s powered his career—plus why backing yourself and taking calculated risks still matters most. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How to make bold, commercial creative that cuts through in retailWhy resilience is a modern C-suite superpower (and how to build it)Balancing brand, performance and revenue without losing focusNavigating complex stakeholder environments and earning trustLessons from scaling teams through transformation and integrationPractical ways to keep your customer promise front and centre Resources & Mentions BIG W – One of Australia’s most iconic retailers.Case studies from Ryan’s standout marketing and retail campaigns.Lessons from creative agency beginnings to executive leadership.Scott Galloway – referenced for his perspectives on business, marketing, and leadership. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to the CMO Chapter Podcast(00:44) Meet Ryan Gracie: Career Highlights(03:22) Ryan's Early Life and Education(04:51) The Drive Behind Success(07:38) Transitioning Roles: CMO to Chief Customer and Revenue Officer(10:24) The Future of the CMO Role(13:39) Balancing Art and Science in Marketing(15:40) Ryan's Principles for Success(18:16) Embracing Discomfort for Growth(18:42) Creating Value in Business(19:23) Resilience and Moving Forward(20:49) The Importance of Attitude(23:41) Advice for Aspiring CMOs(27:33) Networking and Personal Growth(32:20) Overcoming Personal Challenges(35:12) Conclusion and Final Thoughts Connect with Ryan Gracie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryangracie/ Follow the Podcast & New Chapter Talent: Instagram: @NewChapterTalent LinkedIn: New Chapter Talent || CMO Chapters Podcast This podcast is brought to you by New Chapter Talent recruitment. If you're hunting for a fulfilling new role or seeking the right talent for your company, contact Lucy Bolan today! Website: https://www.newchaptertalent.com.au/contact-us LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-chapter-talent/ Email: lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au

37 min

09/29/2025

Purpose, Play & Marketing that Matters with Dan Ferguson

In this energising episode of CMO Chapters, Lucy Bolan sits down with Dan Ferguson, ex-Chief Marketing Officer at Adore Beauty, to explore the intersection of purpose, play, and performance in marketing. With a career spanning retail, eCommerce, and digital transformation, Dan shares his candid views on leadership, building teams, and why the best marketing balances commercial outcomes with creativity and fun. Dan opens up about his own career journey—from working across iconic retail brands to leading marketing at one of Australia’s most loved online beauty destinations. He discusses what it takes to stand out in a crowded category, the role of customer insight in shaping bold brand campaigns, and why empathy, curiosity, and humour are underrated leadership superpowers. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why brand purpose must translate into meaningful action, not just words.How to create marketing that cuts through in crowded, competitive categories.The importance of play and creativity in driving team performance.How to use customer insights as the foundation for bold brand moves.Why empathy and curiosity are game-changers for leaders.Lessons from scaling and transforming retail and eCommerce marketing. Resources & Mentions: Adore Beauty – Australia’s leading online beauty retailer.Key retail and eCommerce learnings from Dan’s career journey.Case studies on customer insight-driven campaigns. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to the CMO Chapter Podcast(00:44) Meet Dan: A Journey from Psychology to Marketing(01:52) The Sliding Doors Moment: Choosing Marketing Over Psychology(04:07) The Role of Psychology in Marketing(06:34) The Impact of AI on Marketing(13:53) Dan's Career Journey and Ambitions(15:21) Leading Adore Beauty: Challenges and Successes(19:03) Defining a Vision and Achievements(21:17) The Importance of Saying Yes(22:53) Embracing Feedback and Vulnerability(26:23) Advice for Emerging Marketers(33:43) The Role of Disruption and Legacy(35:57) Conclusion and Final Thoughts Follow Dan Ferguson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danferguson1/ Follow the Podcast & New Chapter Talent: Instagram: @NewChapterTalent LinkedIn: New Chapter Talent || CMO Chapters Podcast This podcast is brought to you by New Chapter Talent recruitment. If you're hunting for a fulfilling new role or seeking the right talent for your company, contact Lucy Bolan today! Website: https://www.newchaptertalent.com.au/contact-us LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-chapter-talent/ Email: lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au

37 min

09/15/2025

Non-Linear Careers, Resilience & Authentic Leadership with Stacey Maher

In this episode of CMO Chapters, Lucy Bolan sits down with Stacey Maher, a Melbourne-based marketing and business leader whose career has been anything but traditional. From discovering marketing while living overseas to stepping into senior leadership and general management roles, Stacey has built a career defined by curiosity, resilience, and authenticity. She shares candid reflections on navigating non-linear career paths, the value of saying "yes" to unexpected opportunities, and the importance of balancing strategy with execution. Stacey also opens up about her leadership philosophy, the role of resilience in long-term success, and why being authentic and vulnerable as a leader creates stronger, high-performing teams. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why a non-linear career path can be an asset, not a setback.How overseas experiences can shape independence, resilience, and career direction.The importance of understanding both the official and unofficial org charts.Why balancing strategy and execution is key to effective leadership.The role of curiosity, continuous learning, and saying "yes" to new opportunities.How vulnerability and authenticity strengthen teams and leadership impact. Themes and Advice: Insights from Stacey’s global career experiences.Reflections on navigating digital, product, and commercial leadership roles.AI, digital transformation, and evolving leadership skills. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to the CMO Chapter Podcast(00:44) Meet Stacey Maher: A Non-Linear Career Path(01:32) Early Career and Discovering Marketing(04:26) Navigating Career Challenges and Building Resilience(13:18) The Importance of Strategy and Execution(16:03) Embracing AI and Future Skills(20:33) Networking and Building Relationships(24:31) Advice for Aspiring Leaders(27:41) Final Thoughts and Takeaways Follow Stacey Maher on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stacey-maher-4403553/ Follow the Podcast & New Chapter Talent: Instagram: @NewChapterTalent LinkedIn: New Chapter Talent || CMO Chapters Podcast This podcast is brought to you by New Chapter Talent recruitment. If you're hunting for a fulfilling new role or seeking the right talent for your company, contact Lucy Bolan today! Website: https://www.newchaptertalent.com.au/contact-us LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-chapter-talent/ Email: lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au

33 min

09/01/2025

Transformation, AI & Leading with Purpose with Louise Cummins

In this inspiring episode of CMO Chapters, Lucy Bolan sits down with Louise Cummins—Co-Founder of the Australian Centre for AI Marketing and former CMO of World Vision. With over 30 years’ experience across tech, telco, entertainment and not-for-profit, Louise shares her remarkable journey of reinvention, leadership, and driving transformation in fast-changing industries. From starting out in mathematics and psychology to leading major global marketing teams, Louise offers candid insights on how to embrace disruption, build resilience, and balance creativity with commercial impact. She also dives into the evolving role of AI in marketing, and why human-centred leadership and purposeful work matter more than ever. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why diverse career experiences give marketers a unique edge.How to navigate reinvention and stay relevant in disruptive times.The role of AI in removing admin and unleashing creative capacity.The importance of building authentic, supportive professional networks.How to lead with purpose, resilience, and humility.Why focusing on the next 90 days is key to growth and adaptability. Resources & Mentions: Australian Centre for AI Marketing – Co-founded by Louise.World Vision – Where Louise led marketing transformation.Research on AI in marketing and creative productivity. Chapters: (00:00) Introduction to the CMO Chapter Podcast(00:44) Welcoming Louise Cummings(01:22) Louise's Career Journey(02:51) Insights on Marketing and Career Transitions(07:43) Leadership and Innovation at World Vision(19:05) The Australian Center for AI(22:54) Advice for Aspiring Marketers(28:17) Personal Branding and Networking(32:28) Legacy and Impact(34:49) Conclusion and Final Thoughts Follow Louise Cummins on LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/louiseemmacummins/ Follow the Podcast & New Chapter Talent: Instagram: @NewChapterTalent LinkedIn: New Chapter Talent || CMO Chapters Podcast This podcast is brought to you by New Chapter Talent recruitment. If you're hunting for a fulfilling new role or seeking the right talent for your company, contact Lucy Bolan today! Website: https://www.newchaptertalent.com.au/contact-us LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-chapter-talent/ Email: lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au

36 min

07/21/2025

Portfolio Careers, Personal Branding & Doing Work on Your Terms with Penelope Barr

In this insightful and energising episode of CMO Chapters, Lucy Bolan chats with Penelope Barr, portfolio career strategist, executive coach, writer and interim leader across innovation, tech and product. With a career spanning decades in digital transformation and executive leadership, Penelope now empowers others to design fulfilling portfolio lives that align with their values, energy, and lifestyle. Together, they dive into what a portfolio career really means, how marketers can diversify their income, and the steps to building your personal brand and community before you need it. Whether you're a CMO navigating uncertainty or a marketer ready to explore more flexibility and purpose, this episode is your blueprint. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The difference between fractional, interim and portfolio roles.How to build a portfolio career while still in full-time work.Steps to design a “life by seasons” model that fuels you.The mindset shifts required to build on your strengths and say yes to your own path.How to create offers, test ideas, and monetise your skills—without a website.What it takes to thrive financially and emotionally outside the 9-to-5.Why personal brand and community matter more than ever in a shifting job market. Resources & Mentions: Pomodoro Technique – Penelope’s tool of choice for focused, deep work.Career On Your Terms Program – Penelope’s flagship course for portfolio professionals.Monetise Fast Weekends – Learn how to go from idea to offer in 48 hours.LinkedIn – Penelope posts daily on topics from leadership to personal growth. Connect with Our Guest: Follow Penelope Barr on LinkedIn: Penelope BarrLearn more or book a discovery call: https://calendly.com/penelope-barr/30min?month=2025-06 Follow the Podcast & New Chapter Talent: Instagram: @NewChapterTalent LinkedIn: New Chapter Talent || CMO Chapters Podcast This podcast is brought to you by New Chapter Talent recruitment. If you're hunting for a fulfilling new role or seeking the right talent for your company, contact Lucy Bolan today! Website: https://www.newchaptertalent.com.au/contact-us LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-chapter-talent/ Email: lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au

37 min

07/07/2025

Human Leadership, Creative Vision & Riding the Waves with Liana Dubois

In this powerhouse episode of CMO Chapters, Lucy Bolan sits down with Liana Dubois, former Chief Marketing Officer at Nine and an industry leader with over 25 years in media, marketing and advertising. From her early days reading stolen copies of B&T and AdNews to leading one of Australia’s biggest media portfolios, Liana shares candid insights on leadership, reinvention, the future of marketing, and what it really takes to thrive at the top. This conversation goes deep on how to manage high-performing teams, navigate change, harness AI without losing your brand identity, and lead with empathy in a world that demands more human-centred leadership. A must-listen for marketers navigating growth, leadership, or reinvention. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How to lead marketing in a matrix organisation across multiple brands.Why CMOs must align their strategies with business growth, not just brand goals.Tips for leading teams of 250+ without burning out.What not to assume when communicating your marketing strategy.How to manage career transitions with optimism and resilience.The real impact of AI on creative distinctiveness—and how to avoid the sea of sameness.Why human behaviour, ethics and empathy are the future of leadership. Resources & Mentions: AdNews & B&T – Industry publications that sparked Liana’s early career curiosity.Australian Institute of Marketing (AMI) – Upskilling for marketers.ADMA – Training and development for data-driven marketing.Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity – Where marketing meets innovation.Generative AI Tools – The opportunities and risks in creative automation. Connect with Our Guest: Follow Liana Dubois on LinkedIn: Liana Dubois Follow the Podcast & New Chapter Talent: Instagram: @NewChapterTalent LinkedIn: New Chapter Talent || CMO Chapters Podcast This podcast is brought to you by New Chapter Talent recruitment. If you're hunting for a fulfilling new role or seeking the right talent for your company, contact Lucy Bolan today! Website: https://www.newchaptertalent.com.au/contact-us LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-chapter-talent/ Email: lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au

36 min

06/23/2025

Standing Out, Staying Human & Smarter Job Seeking with Edan Haddock

In this special episode of CMO Chapters, Lucy Bolan welcomes Edan Haddock, Head of Talent at Movember, for a powerful and practical discussion about what it really takes to get hired in today’s competitive job market. While not a CMO, Edan brings a wealth of knowledge from years in talent acquisition and leadership, offering fresh, real-world advice for marketers at all levels. This conversation is packed with honest insights into how to stand out, the importance of personalisation and storytelling, and how AI is impacting recruitment. If you're job hunting, considering a move, or supporting someone who is—this one’s essential listening. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: How Movember has reshaped its employer brand to focus on purpose and connection.What candidates really need to do to stand out in a sea of applicants.How AI is changing the hiring process (and how to stay human in a digital world).The importance of building your personal brand and online presence.Why recruiters value storytelling over perfectly formatted CVs.The power of meaningful networking and finding “your Lucy.”What success looks like in a saturated job market—and how to stay sane through it. Resources & Mentions: Teamtailor – Recruitment platform helping personalise the candidate experience.Movember Careers Page: careers.movember.comNew Chapter Talent – Your partner in career growth and marketing leadership hiring. Connect with Our Guest: Follow Edan Haddock on LinkedIn: Edan Haddock Follow New Chapter Talent and the Podcast! Instagram: @NewChapterTalent LinkedIn: New Chapter Talent || CMO Chapters Podcast This podcast is brought to you by New Chapter Talent recruitment. If you're hunting for a fulfilling new role or seeking the right talent for your company, contact Lucy Bolan today! Website: https://www.newchaptertalent.com.au/contact-us LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/new-chapter-talent/ Email: lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au

34 min

CMO Chapters Podcast with Lucy Bolan

Storytelling That Sticks: Influence, Trust & Standing Out in a Noisy World with Gabrielle Dolan

Bold Moves, Retail Reinvention & the Power of Resilience with Ryan Gracie

Purpose, Play & Marketing that Matters with Dan Ferguson

Non-Linear Careers, Resilience & Authentic Leadership with Stacey Maher

Transformation, AI & Leading with Purpose with Louise Cummins

Portfolio Careers, Personal Branding & Doing Work on Your Terms with Penelope Barr

Human Leadership, Creative Vision & Riding the Waves with Liana Dubois

Standing Out, Staying Human & Smarter Job Seeking with Edan Haddock

Trailer

TRAILER: Welcome to the CMO Chapters Podcast!

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CMO Chapters Podcast with Lucy Bolan

Episodes

Storytelling That Sticks: Influence, Trust & Standing Out in a Noisy World with Gabrielle Dolan

Bold Moves, Retail Reinvention & the Power of Resilience with Ryan Gracie

Purpose, Play & Marketing that Matters with Dan Ferguson

Non-Linear Careers, Resilience & Authentic Leadership with Stacey Maher

Transformation, AI & Leading with Purpose with Louise Cummins

Portfolio Careers, Personal Branding & Doing Work on Your Terms with Penelope Barr

Human Leadership, Creative Vision & Riding the Waves with Liana Dubois

Standing Out, Staying Human & Smarter Job Seeking with Edan Haddock

Trailer

About

Information