CMO Weekly

OpenFortune

"CMO Weekly," hosted by OpenFortune's Hayley Clover, explores the journeys of top Chief Marketing Officers. Each episode features in-depth conversations with influential marketing leaders, uncovering their strategies, challenges, and success stories. The podcast offers insights into marketing innovation, leadership, and brand-building for both aspiring and seasoned professionals. Clover delves into the career-defining moments and philosophies that shape marketing excellence, providing a unique insider's view of the industry's most brilliant minds.

  1. Andrew Pink of Play’n GO: Why One-Size-Fits-All Marketing is Dead

    -2 J

    Andrew Pink of Play’n GO: Why One-Size-Fits-All Marketing is Dead

    In this episode of CMO Weekly, host Hayley Clover sits down with Andrew Pink, the Head of Brand and Communications at Play’n GO, to discuss his fascinating transition from professional sports to the heights of the AI, gaming, and entertainment industry. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Olympic Mindset: Andrew shares how his experience representing Great Britain in volleyball at the 2012 London Olympics shaped his competitive approach to global brand strategy. Navigating Regulated Markets: Discover why Play’n GO is actively lobbying for more regulation in the gaming industry to ensure long-term sustainability and player safety. High-Volume Content Strategy: Andrew explains the logic behind producing multiple new game titles every month and how to maintain brand consistency when your audience ranges from grandmothers to hardcore gamers. Bold Marketing Stunts: Get the inside scoop on sending game characters into space and leveraging high-profile partnerships like Formula 1 to build trust and scale in the North American market. Leadership & Career Advice: Andrew discusses his "high-performing team" leadership style and why he believes "reading everything" is the most underrated tool for anyone looking to break into the gaming industry today. About Our Guest: Andrew Pink leads global brand strategy for Play’n GO, a world leader in gaming and entertainment. With a unique background as a former Olympic athlete, he brings a disciplined, data-driven, and competitive edge to one of the most dynamic sectors in tech. Episode Highlights: [01:21] Andrew’s journey from the volleyball court to the boardroom. [04:07] Why Play’n GO wants a "safer place to play" through regulation. [08:16] The "out of this world" marketing behind their latest campaigns. [14:27] Why sponsoring F1 makes sense for a global entertainment brand. [18:09] Essential advice for the next generation of marketing leaders. This episode is brought to you by Open Fortune, the marketing pioneers putting brands inside actual fortune cookies to capture a moment of surprise no banner ad can match. #CMOWeekly #MarketingStrategy #GamingIndustry #PlaynGO #Leadership #BrandBuilding #OlympicMindset #Formula1

    20 min
  2. Chris Garrow of Prairie Band Casino & Resort: How Design and Data Keep Guests in Their Seats

    -3 J

    Chris Garrow of Prairie Band Casino & Resort: How Design and Data Keep Guests in Their Seats

    In this episode of CMO Weekly, host Hayley Clover sits down with Chris Garrow, the Gaming Operations Director at Prairie Band Casino & Resort. With nearly 30 years of experience spanning corporate giants like MGM in Las Vegas to tribal gaming in Kansas, Chris shares an insider's look at how the gaming industry is evolving through technology, psychology, and a deep commitment to community. Chris dives into the complexities of launching the first tribal sportsbook in Kansas, the surprising psychology behind casino floor layouts, and how Prairie Band uses AI and data analytics to stay ahead of the competition. Whether you're a marketing professional, a gaming enthusiast, or looking to climb the corporate ladder, this episode offers a masterclass in operational excellence and leadership. 🕒 Key Moments in This Episode: 00:00 – Introduction & Sponsor Spotlight: Open Fortune 01:24 – Launching the first Tribal Sportsbook in Kansas 02:07 – Chris Garrow’s Journey: From Boston to the MGM University in Vegas 04:09 – The Real Impact: How Tribal Gaming supports local communities 06:01 – Staying Competitive: Marketing a rural destination in a digital world 07:52 – The Role of Innovation: Mobile apps and forward-thinking tech 09:45 – Data vs. Emotion: Using AI to optimize the gaming floor 12:03 – The Bricks-and-Mortar Advantage: The craving for in-person interaction 14:02 – Casino Psychology: Why ergonomics and chair comfort drive revenue 15:26 – The "Yellow Brick Road": Designing the flow of a gaming floor 17:32 – The Future Floor: Adapting from Boomers to the younger generation 19:05 – Commitment to Responsible Gaming: Setting limits via technology 20:13 – Career Advice: The power of patience and mentorship 💡 Highlights from the Episode: Community First: Chris explains how tribal gaming revenue directly funds health clinics, social services, and tribal government. The Science of Comfort: Learn why the height of a slot machine and the "swing" of a poker chair are critical to the guest experience. AI Before It Was Cool: Discover how Prairie Band has been using predictive models since 2018 to determine game placement and uplift. Retail Sportsbooks: Why a 16-seat boutique sportsbook can offer a more intimate, "watch party" vibe than the massive books in Vegas. About Chris Garrow: Chris Garrow is the Gaming Operations Director at Prairie Band Casino & Resort, where he oversees slots, table games, and bingo. His career highlights include leading major gaming technology initiatives, sportsbook launches, and data-driven revenue optimization. Connect with CMO Weekly: Don't forget to Subscribe for more interviews with the world's top executives uncovering the old rules and breakthrough ideas shaping the industry. #CMOWeekly #GamingIndustry #CasinoMarketing #SportsBetting #TribalGaming #DataAnalytics #LeadershipAdvice #PrairieBandCasino

    22 min
  3. Nilofer Vahora of amika: Unlocking Next-Level Growth through Community Loyalty

    7 AVR.

    Nilofer Vahora of amika: Unlocking Next-Level Growth through Community Loyalty

    This podcast episode of CMO Weekly, hosted by Hayley Clover, features an in-depth conversation with Nilofer Vahora, the Chief Marketing Officer of amika In this episode, Nilofer Vahora discusses her career journey, the evolution of the amika brand, and its strategic expansion into the body care category. She shares insights on building community, maintaining cultural relevance for a 20-year-old brand, and the importance of the professional stylist community to amika’s success. Key Highlights Career Journey: Nilofer details her transition from a finance background at Wharton to leading marketing for major brands like Bare Minerals, Kate Spade, Rebecca Minkoff, and Milk Makeup. Joining amika: As amika's first-ever CMO, Nilofer explains her approach to joining a well-established brand: listening to its history and identifying how to unlock the next wave of growth without alienating its loyal community. Expansion into Body Care: Nilofer describes the brand's first move beyond hair care as an "emotional expansion". Driven by community demand, amika launched its Aura Hair and Body Mist followed by a full body care line, extending its core ethos of "all hair and all bodies are welcome". The Power of Community: A significant portion of the discussion focuses on amika's roots in the professional salon community. Nilofer highlights that amika is the #1 recommended brand by stylists, which drives the brand's authenticity and high customer repeat rates. Brand Philosophy: Nilofer emphasizes amika's identity as a "friend" (the meaning of its name) that prioritizes inclusivity, performance, and joy in daily rituals. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction to CMO Weekly and guest Nilofer Vahora. 01:58 – Nilofer’s background: From finance to the "beauty bug". 04:40 – Nilofer’s "sweet spot" in marketing: Unlocking scale for established brands. 06:50 – Becoming amika’s first CMO and honoring the brand's 20-year history. 09:49 – The strategic "why" behind amika’s new body care line. 12:56 – Launching the Aura Hair and Body Mist: A community-first success story. 16:44 – Extending "Hair is Welcome" to "All Bodies are Welcome". 19:23 – Why the professional stylist community is the core of amika’s DNA.

    36 min
  4. Kim Chappell of Bobbie: Why Bold Cultural Moves Pay Off for Startups

    24 MARS

    Kim Chappell of Bobbie: Why Bold Cultural Moves Pay Off for Startups

    What does it take to flip the table on a multi-billion dollar industry monopolized by giant corporations for decades? In this episode of CMO Weekly, host Hayley Clover sits down with Kim Chappell, the Chief Brand Officer at Bobbie, to explore how a team of moms built a "challenger brand" that redefined the infant formula category. Kim shares her "wild ride" from a decade-long career as an award-winning broadcast journalist to leading marketing at one of the fastest-growing startups in the U.S.. We dive deep into the reality of "startup years," overcoming crushing imposter syndrome, and why the most powerful marketing tool isn't a flashy ad—it’s radical transparency. In this episode, we discuss: The Journalism Edge: How a background in news reporting built the "content muscle" and storytelling skills needed to scale a brand. Conquering Imposter Syndrome: Kim’s honest reflection on nearly saying "no" to the CBO role and how she found the confidence to lead. The Community-First Model: How Bobbie used direct-to-consumer subscriptions and Zoom sessions with real parents to build a relationship-driven brand. The Power of Transparency: From the "Transparency Tracker" to investing $100M in their own manufacturing facility to ensure quality and trust. Bold Moves & Cultural Conversations: The strategy behind the "Not Guilty" campaign with Cardi B and why Bobbie only uses real customers in its marketing. Advice for Working Moms: Why "balance is b******t" and the importance of showing the "mess" of being a leader and a parent simultaneously. Episode Highlights: [02:15] Kim’s transition from journalism to tech and startups. [06:35] Joining Bobbie in a basement and selling out a million cans in six weeks. [10:56] The "toxic mindset" for marketing leaders and the importance of hiring experts. [17:25] Why trust is the non-negotiable foundation of brand building. [24:43] Going behind the scenes of the Cardi B "Not Guilty" campaign. [34:25] Honest advice on career, motherhood, and building a support ecosystem. About Kim Chappell: Kim Chappell is the Chief Brand Officer at Bobbie, the organic infant formula company. An award-winning journalist turned marketing leader, Kim heads Bobbie’s brand, creativity, and communication strategy, driving bold storytelling and advocacy campaigns that empower modern families. Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by OpenFortune, the marketing company putting brands inside actual fortune cookies. Reach millions of customers in a moment of surprise and undivided attention. Learn more at openfortune.com. Subscribe to CMO Weekly for more conversations with the world's top marketing leaders!

    40 min
  5. Liza Suloti of SHADOW: Culture is the Key to Authentic Brand Relevancy

    17 MARS

    Liza Suloti of SHADOW: Culture is the Key to Authentic Brand Relevancy

    This podcast episode of CMO Weekly features Liza Suloti, co-founder of the creative marketing agency SHADOW. In a wide-ranging conversation with host Hayley Clover, Liza details her journey from a native New Yorker and English major at BU to becoming a leader of a powerhouse agency with over 20 years of experience. She provides a "behind-the-scenes" look at what it takes to execute high-stakes marketing moments, including e.l.f. Beauty’s iconic Super Bowl campaigns featuring Jennifer Coolidge and Judge Judy. Key Highlights From the Episode The Power of "Yes": Liza discusses how being open to non-linear career paths and saying "yes" to challenges—like shifting from journalism to PR—led to the creation of SHADOW. Building Buzz Through Culture: She explains why SHADOW remains diversified across fashion, beauty, hospitality, and wellness, treating these industries as a snapshot of culture to drive authentic brand relevancy. Super Bowl Strategy: Liza breaks down the strategic thinking behind e.l.f. Beauty’s viral big-game ads, revealing that the first Jennifer Coolidge spot was pulled together in a staggering three weeks. The "Brick by Brick" Approach: A deep dive into why long-term client relationships (some spanning 15 years) are the foundation for the trust needed to take massive creative risks. Agency vs. Brand Life: Advice for early-stage marketers on choosing between the fast-paced, multi-brand environment of an agency and the deep narrative ownership of working in-house. About Liza Suloti Liza Suloti is a PR and marketing communications veteran who oversees SHADOW’s beauty and wellness division. She has guided high-profile clients such as Amika, Estée Lauder, Dove, and Supergoop. A multiple Webby and Shorty Award winner, she is a frequent expert voice in Business of Fashion and Adweek.

    37 min
  6. Jeff Mavros and Abby McClain: Why Small Moments Win Big in Recruitment

    12 MARS

    Jeff Mavros and Abby McClain: Why Small Moments Win Big in Recruitment

    In this episode of CMO Weekly, host Hayley Clover explores the fascinating intersection of experiential marketing and life-altering decisions. We dive into how something as simple as a fortune cookie can influence where a student-athlete chooses to spend their next four years and how universities are breaking through the digital noise to reach the next generation. The Story Behind the Cookie Abby McLean, a student-athlete at Idaho State University, shares her unique recruiting journey. Facing the high-pressure world of college sports recruitment, a chance lunch at Panda Express provided the "sign" she needed. We discuss how a simple message—"You'll find satisfaction near you"—sparked a critical family conversation that led to her commitment to Idaho State. Marketing Beyond the Screen Jeff Mavros, Executive Director of Admissions at Illinois State University, provides the marketer’s perspective. With Illinois State seeing record-breaking freshman enrollment, Jeff discusses why he took a "big swing" on non-traditional channels like Open Fortune. We explore: The Emotional Decision-Maker: Why 17-year-olds (and their parents) respond more to "nudges" and emotional triggers than purely logical data. The Power of the Dinner Table: Why 82% of important family decisions happen over a meal. Differentiation in a Crowded Market: How to stop the "delete-delete-delete" cycle of student emails by being approachable, tactile, and unexpected. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: The Impact of Experiential Touchpoints: How real-world, tactile marketing creates lasting brand awareness. Recruiting the Gen Z Athlete: Understanding the pressure of the recruiting process and what actually resonates with students. Engaging the "Hidden" Influencers: Why marketing to parents is just as critical as marketing to students. Risk vs. Reward in Higher Ed: Why taking creative risks is essential for institutional growth

    30 min
  7. Kim Dao of Every Man Jack: Using Deep Human Insight to Build Brand Loyalty

    10 MARS

    Kim Dao of Every Man Jack: Using Deep Human Insight to Build Brand Loyalty

    In this episode of CMO Weekly, hosts Hayley Clover and Yoni sit down with Kim Dao, the Vice President of Marketing at Every Man Jack. With over 20 years of experience at powerhouse brands like Neutrogena and Clif Bar, Kim is currently steering Every Man Jack through its most significant brand transformation in nearly two decades. Kim shares her fascinating transition from financial consulting and socio-cultural anthropology to becoming a "modern-day anthropologist" in the world of marketing. We dive deep into how a 19-year-old "challenger brand" stays relevant in an increasingly crowded natural grooming market and why the brand is shifting its focus toward grit, perseverance, and identity-led marketing. Key Topics Discussed: The Evolution of a Challenger Brand: How Every Man Jack is moving beyond "clean and natural" to embrace a positioning built for "men who put in the work". The "Baker Mayfield" Effect: The strategy behind choosing the Buccaneers QB as a brand ambassador and why his story of grit aligns perfectly with the brand's DNA. Innovation vs. Tradition: Why modern men are moving away from "3-in-1" products toward high-performance, benefit-specific grooming routines like separate shampoos and conditioners. Building Community: Connecting with consumers beyond the shelf through athlete-led workouts, trade shows, and social media ambassadors. Leadership & Career Growth: Kim’s advice for early-stage marketers on staying curious and viewing career paths as non-linear journeys. About Our Guest: Kim Dao is the VP of Marketing at Every Man Jack. She is a seasoned CPG leader known for building culturally resonant brands through deep consumer insights. Throughout her career, she has specialized in mission-driven brands that bring joy and utility to consumers' daily lives. Episode Sponsored By: Open Fortune: The only marketing company putting your brand inside actual fortune cookies. Reach millions of customers in a moment of pure surprise. Learn more at openfortune.com.

    35 min
  8. Brian Murphy of Loeffler Randall: Building a Lifestyle Brand Without Following Trends

    6 MARS

    Brian Murphy of Loeffler Randall: Building a Lifestyle Brand Without Following Trends

    In this episode of CMO Weekly, host Hayley Clover sits down with Brian Murphy, the Co-Founder and CEO of Loeffler Randall, the New York-based fashion brand famous for its design-forward footwear and accessories. Brian shares the incredible 20-year journey of scaling a "cult favorite" label into a global lifestyle brand while maintaining the deep emotional connection that defines the company. From the "rocky" early days in a Brooklyn basement to managing a brand that spans multiple generations, Brian offers a masterclass in building a business with authenticity and "product-level excellence". In this episode, we discuss: The Origin Story: How Brian and his wife, Jessie, launched the brand in 2003 from their Brooklyn apartment and navigated early challenges, including an office situated in the back of an olive oil warehouse. Scaling the Brand: The specific products that served as "benchmarks" for growth, including the iconic flat boot and the globally recognized pleated fabric program. The Power of "Self-Reference": Why Loeffler Randall avoids looking at outside stimulus or competitors, instead focusing on Jessie’s personal creative vision and what she feels is missing from her own wardrobe. The Core Consumer: How the brand targets confident, self-sufficient women who dress for themselves rather than for others. Cross-Generational Appeal: Connecting with a diverse audience, from "millennial moms" to Gen Z daughters and beyond. Marketing Strategy: Why Loeffler Randall prioritizes physical retail spaces in cities like Charleston and Nashville as vital brand touchpoints. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro to CMO Weekly & Guest Welcome 02:36 – The 20-Year Origin Story of Loeffler Randall 04:22 – Starting in a Brooklyn Basement and Early Struggles 08:46 – Transitioning to a Household Name & Lifestyle Brand 11:17 – Quality and "Product-Level Excellence" as Marketing 12:47 – Staying Power: Avoiding Trends and Trusting Creativity 15:36 – Marketing Across Generations: From Millennials to Gen Alpha 18:23 – Defining the Loeffler Randall Woman Subscribe to CMO Weekly for more deep dives with the world's top marketing leaders and executives. #Marketing #FashionBusiness #Entrepreneurship #CMOWeekly #LoefflerRandall #BrandBuilding #DirectToConsumer

    45 min

À propos

"CMO Weekly," hosted by OpenFortune's Hayley Clover, explores the journeys of top Chief Marketing Officers. Each episode features in-depth conversations with influential marketing leaders, uncovering their strategies, challenges, and success stories. The podcast offers insights into marketing innovation, leadership, and brand-building for both aspiring and seasoned professionals. Clover delves into the career-defining moments and philosophies that shape marketing excellence, providing a unique insider's view of the industry's most brilliant minds.