CultivatED Marketer

Cultivated Marketer
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Grow Brand YOU

  1. JAN 29

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 42 —  Unlocking Purpose with Cause Marketing: Insights from Mike Farag on Marketing Communications

    In the 42nd episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen, Matt Tidwell, PhD, and Julie Masson, are joined by Mike Farag, CEO and Chief Strategy Officer at Fervor, an award-winning strategic marketing agency. Mike shares his journey from the corporate world to building a purpose-driven career, offering powerful insights into career development, professional growth, and aligning personal values with marketing communications across both for-profit and nonprofit sectors. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 42 —  Unlocking Purpose with Cause Marketing: Insights from Mike Farag on Marketing Communications Mike’s path toward purpose-driven work began with a life-changing mission trip to Haiti in July 2008. There, he met a young orphan named Daniel whose joy and resilience reshaped Mike’s understanding of success and fulfillment. That moment ultimately led Mike to transition from his corporate role at Sprint into work centered on impact and meaning. As Mike discussed his shift into nonprofit marketing, he highlighted the importance of adapting marketing communications strategies to connect with diverse audiences. Navigating this transition required intentional learning, empathy, and a commitment to continuous professional development – especially when moving between corporate and nonprofit environments. Despite the challenges, Mike found renewed purpose in helping organizations build brands that truly matter. Building Organizational Trust Through Internal and External Communications On building brand trust, Mike says he draws a lot of inspiration from Cory Sheer, emphasizing the difference between brand awareness and genuine brand trust, noting that trust is built through consistent, authentic internal communications and external communications. For nonprofits in particular, investing in thoughtful communication strategies is essential for building long-term relationships with donors, stakeholders, and communities. Mike encouraged organizations to move beyond a scarcity mindset and view communication as a core function, rather than a luxury. This approach reinforces transparency, strengthens leadership credibility, and supports sustainable organizational growth. The Role of Organizational Culture in the Success of a Brand Julie calls out a study done and how St. Jude is the most trusted nonprofit organization, and they achieved this by spending over $100M in marketing. Mike shared practical advice for leaders focused on professional development, starting with simple but powerful internal actions. Regular, authentic communication from leadership plays a critical role in shaping culture and alignment. As Mike put it, “Culture begets communication, and communication begets culture.” Drawing from his book, Marketing with Fervor, Mike outlined a framework that helps organizations articulate purpose, clarify messaging, and build cohesive marketing strategies. These principles support both marketing professional development and healthier internal cultures – ensuring organizations grow from the inside out. Translating Organizational Purpose into Day-to-Day Decisions While some industries struggle with purpose-driven branding in polarized environments, as noted in the interview with Fred Cook and the Annenberg study, Mike believes purpose remains essential for nonprofits and mission-driven organizations. Purpose provides clarity, direction, and authenticity – key ingredients for meaningful career development and organizational impact. Mike’s perspective reinforces the value of communication professional development rooted in integrity and consistency. By showing up as the same person in every setting, leaders can foster trust, strengthen culture, and build brands that resonate deeply with their audiences. Mike Farag’s story is a compelling reminder that professional growth doesn’t have to come at the expense of personal values. By aligning purpose with marketing communications, leaders can create meaningful change while advancing their own career development.     03:07 The Importance of Nonprofit Communications 06:21 Mike Farag’s Journey from Corporate to Nonprofit 09:31 Challenges and Strategies in Nonprofit Marketing 17:49 Building Organizational Trust and Effective Marketing for Nonprofits 24:42 Overcoming Scarcity Mentality in Nonprofits 27:35 Google’s Secret Sauce and Nonprofit Challenges 29:42 Integrating Purpose and Career 33:11 Translating Purpose into Action 35:44 The Future of Cause Marketing 41:29 Building Organizational Trust with Internal Communications

    50 min

  2. JAN 15

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 41 —   Why Event Marketing Is Making a Massive Comeback with Jonathan Mast

    In the 41st episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen and Matt Tidwell, PhD, are joined by Jonathan Mast, a Kansas City-based marketer who transitioned from digital and social media marketing to event marketing. Jonathan discusses the evolution of event marketing, particularly in the age of AI, and provides valuable tips for anyone looking to make their events memorable and impactful. With more than 17 years of experience across digital media, branding, and external communications, Jonathan brings practical insights for communications professionals looking to sharpen their skills and grow their careers. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 41 —   Why Event Marketing Is Making a Massive Comeback with Jonathan Mast Jonathan’s path into event marketing was unplanned – but transformative. While working at Sedgwick, he noticed missed opportunities to extend the value of live events beyond the room. That realization sparked new strategies such as post-event video content, live social engagement, and follow-up storytelling that strengthened both external communications and audience trust. This approach highlights a core principle of effective marketing communications: events shouldn’t end when the doors close. Instead, they can become powerful tools for communication professional development, helping marketers build community, credibility, and long-term engagement. Jonathan also emphasizes that great event marketing relies on meticulous planning. From logistics to thoughtful details like branded hand towels, every touchpoint contributes to the experience, and to the brand story being told. The Resurgence of In-Person Events and Career Development Opportunities As digital tools evolve and misinformation becomes easier to spread, Jonathan believes authenticity is more valuable than ever. To answer the question, “why brands should do in person events,” he echoes Mark Cuban’s prediction that fueled by the desire for genuine human connection, in-person events will continue to rise. For early-career marketers, event marketing offers hands-on opportunities for professional growth that can accelerate career development. Live events build skills in relationship management, storytelling, leadership, and adaptability – core competencies for anyone pursuing professional development for communications professionals. Leadership Lessons That Support Professional Growth Jonathan credits much of his success to mentors who emphasized kindness and confidence over ego. His leadership philosophy, “confidence over cockiness,” aligns closely with sustainable internal communications and team-building practices. For those navigating their own continuous professional development, Jonathan encourages collaboration, humility, and empathy. These qualities not only strengthen teams internally but also improve how brands show up externally. Technology, AI, and the Future of Event Marketing Communications Even in traditional industries like workers’ compensation, Jonathan sees technology reshaping how marketers connect with audiences. From personalized digital experiences to AI-powered insights, adaptive strategies are becoming essential for effective external communications. Jonathan believes future success lies in blending technology with human insight — an approach that reflects strong continuing professional development and keeps marketers competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape. With respect to communications and marketing, the group discussed reaching people where they are at and mention of the following generational communications preferences: Jonathan Mast’s insights underscore the growing importance of event marketing as a strategic pillar of marketing communications and professional growth. By combining thoughtful planning, authentic connection, and evolving technology, marketers can drive meaningful engagement while advancing their own career development. You can connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn.       01:43 Jonathan’s Career Journey 02:10 Event Marketing Insights 04:17 Early Days of Social Media 08:03 Transition to Event Marketing 14:19 Event Planning Essentials 19:55 Ensuring Timely Delivery of Promised Materials 20:43 The Impact of Technology on Meetings 22:15 Artificial Intelligence and the Milli Vanilli Effect 23:47 The Challenges of Virtual Meetings 25:22 The Future of In-Person Events 26:22 Event Marketing in the Age of AI 35:05 Leadership Lessons and Career Advice 37:23 Final Thoughts on Event Marketing

    39 min

  3. 12/19/2025

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 40 —  The 5 C’s of Brand Identity with Kim Derrick Rozdeba

    In the 40th episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen and Matt Tidwell, PhD, are joined by Kim Derrick Rozdeba. Derrick shares with us about his impressive journey of over 30 years, insights into building iconic Fortune 500 brands, and his recent foray into fiction with his debut novel. We cover a variety of topics including the importance of community in professional development, the five Cs of branding, and the challenges and triumphs of brand consistency. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 40 —  The 5 C’s of Brand Identity with Kim Derrick Rozdeba The discussion opens with Derrick’s intriguing dual identity: “Kim,” his fictional writing persona, and “Derrick,” his corporate branding strategist persona. This dual perspective reflects the balance between creative storytelling and strategic external communications—an interplay central to modern marketing communications. He shares how he crafted his debut novel Balance of Evil while simultaneously shaping Fortune 500 brands through strategic planning, internal communications, and executive influence. The Five Cs of Branding Derrick introduces his renowned Five Cs of Branding—a powerful framework that aligns perfectly with continuing professional development for marketing and communications professionals: Commitment: Brands must anchor themselves with purpose and vision, much like Estee Lauder’s iconic “jar of hope.” Construct: Logos, style, tone, and identity form the visual and emotional construct of a brand. Community: Employees, customers, and stakeholders form the community that carries a brand’s message—an essential concept in external communications. Content: Marketing communications, public relations, and storytelling fuel brand awareness and trust. Consistency: Brand loyalty grows when messaging, design, and values remain steady over time, as seen with Oprah Winfrey and long-standing Fortune 500 campaigns. Insights from Experience: Professional Development and Branding Success Derrick then reflects on pivotal moments in his career, highlighting how embracing uncertainty can be essential for continuous professional development. Brent and Matt connect these insights to the theme of professional growth, encouraging listeners – especially those seeking marketing professional development – to take bold steps outside their comfort zone. His stories from global agencies like Ogilvy offer a masterclass in leadership and communication professional development. The Role of Community in Professional Growth A recurring theme is community – a cornerstone of both career development and professional development for communications professionals. Derrick emphasizes the importance of joining professional organizations, especially in a climate where membership is declining. The hosts discuss how community-driven learning fuels both internal and external communications success, offering support and shared expertise that can accelerate continuous professional development. A Personal Take on Brand Loyalty Derrick shares memorable anecdotes demonstrating how small, human-centered actions can create lifelong brand loyalty. One story highlights how a bank manager’s simple gesture – offering space for a book launch – became a powerful example of authentic marketing communications and customer-focused engagement. These moments, he explains, reinforce the value of consistency, trust, and meaningful professional relationships. We encourage you to explore Kim Derrick Rozdeba’s books, or connect with Derrick on LinkedIn.   01:37 The Importance of Personal and Corporate Branding 02:31 Derrick’s Branding Expertise and Career Highlights 04:41 Introduction to the Five Cs of Branding 08:22 Derrick’s Journey and Writing Career 12:32 Deep Dive into the Five Cs of Branding 16:48 Consistency: The Hardest C to Master 18:19 Derrick’s Role in the IABC and Branding Success Stories 21:35 The Evolution of Logos in a Visual World 22:23 Successful Rebranding Strategies 23:03 Case Study: Kraft and Heinz 23:31 Branding from Scratch: A Telecom Example 24:56 The Power of Consistency in Branding 26:50 Personal Branding Insights 27:38 The Inspiration Behind ‘Omics’ 29:19 The Importance of Small Interactions 33:11 Advice for Career Reinvention 36:53 The Value of Professional Communities

    44 min

  4. 11/25/2025

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 39 —  Sharing Engaging Expertise on LinkedIn with Purna Virji

    In the 39th episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen, Matt Tidwell, PhD, and Julie Masson, are joined by Purna Virji, Principal Consultant of Content Solutions at LinkedIn. Together, they delve into practical strategies for sharing thought leadership on LinkedIn, optimizing content creation, and leveraging the platform for professional growth. Purna offers valuable insights on the importance of quality content, effective commenting, and video engagement, as well as tips for founders to manage their LinkedIn presence without burnout. Don’t miss this actionable guide to enhancing your LinkedIn success! CultivatED Marketer Ep. 39 —  Sharing Engaging Expertise on LinkedIn with Purna Virji In the rapidly evolving realm of professional networking and digital marketing communications, LinkedIn stands out as a powerhouse platform for developing personal and corporate brands. Purna Virji, Principal Consultant of Content Solutions at LinkedIn and a globally recognized content strategist, shares her insights to help illuminate pathways for marketing professionals pursuing career development, professional growth, and more effective communication professional development. The Shift from Reach to Resonance One of the most significant trends Purna highlighted is the shift from merely seeking reach to fostering resonance. With the rapid influx of content amplified by AI, generic strategies no longer hold sway. To stand out, content needs to be genuinely engaging and aligned with modern marketing communications best practices. Purna stressed the importance of leveraging executive presence to build trust – an essential skill for anyone invested in continuing professional development on platforms like LinkedIn. Navigating the LinkedIn Algorithm There’s substantial discussion around changes in the LinkedIn algorithm, with diverse opinions on its impact. Purna emphasized that despite the chatter, positive shifts are elevating meaningful content over low-value tactics. She encouraged consistency, prioritizing dialogue over monologue, and leaning into video content – which typically sees twice the engagement. These insights are particularly valuable for marketing professionals aiming to strengthen their communications strategies across digital channels. Building a Community Over Pursuing Reach Another key takeaway was the importance of prioritizing community over pure reach. By focusing on quality interactions and nurturing an engaged audience, users naturally expand their influence. This philosophy aligns directly with the goals of marketing professional development, where building relationships and fostering trust often matter more than vanity metrics. Purna encouraged listeners to bring their lived experiences forward. Unlocking Executive Thought Leadership Diving into thought leadership, Purna outlined common pitfalls in executive communications. Many executives default to talking at their audiences rather than engaging with them. For executives looking to strengthen their communications skills or build an audience, shifting toward audience-centric storytelling is essential. By focusing on what audiences care about most, leaders can elevate the impact of their messages and strengthen organizational reputation. Her Founder-led Sales And Marketing Never Ends guide walks leaders through key steps on how to turn expertise into trust and revenue. In fact, she points out that organizational leaders can achieve real ROI using LinkedIn. She provides Hootsuite as one example. Empowering Content Creation with AI As AI reshapes content creation, Purna underscored that foundational marketing principles still matter. AI can enhance efficiency, but the human ability to interpret nuance, emotion, and context remains irreplaceable. For marketing and communications professionals, AI serves as a powerful tool – as long as it complements, rather than replaces, strategic judgment and creativity. Career Insights and Mentorship Reflecting on her career, Purna shared the importance of mentorship, collaboration, and community uplift – core elements of sustainable career development. She showcased the evolving landscape of LinkedIn as a vital platform for meaningful engagement and strategic growth. By embracing authenticity, audience-first communication, and community-driven content strategies, marketers can elevate both their skills and influence. Click the links to connect with Purna Virji on LinkedIn, buy her book High Impact Content Marketing, or to find Purna’s Founder Led Growth Cheat Sheet.   02:04 The Value of Scrolling LinkedIn and Marketing Strategy 03:37 Integration and Full Funnel Content Strategy 05:58 Reaching the Right Audience on LinkedIn 07:43 Introduction to Purna Virji and Her Expertise 09:04 Shifts in Content Strategy on LinkedIn 11:12 Navigating LinkedIn’s Algorithm Changes 17:10 The Importance of Community and Engagement 21:13 Thought Leadership and Audience-Centric Content 23:04 The ‘You’ Attitude in Communication 23:33 Introducing the Founder-Led Sales and Marketing Playbook 25:12 Authentic Engagement on LinkedIn 31:19 Leveraging AI in Content Creation 32:20 Essential Skills for Content Strategists 38:29 Purna’s Career Journey and Insights

    46 min

  5. 11/07/2025

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 38 — Public Service Communications with Jazzlyn Johnson

    In the 38th episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen and Matt Tidwell, PhD, explore public service communications with our guest, Jazzlyn Johnson, Director of Communications for the Jackson County Prosecutor’s Office. She offers invaluable insights into professional growth and the transition from journalism to public relations. This conversation is perfect for those pursuing career development in communications or seeking inspiration from leaders who thrive under pressure. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 38 — Leading with Empathy in the High-Stakes World of Public Service Communications with Jazzlyn Johnson Jazzlyn’s career began in journalism, where she quickly learned the power of storytelling in serving her community. Her move into public service communications revealed the unique challenges of government work, where internal and external communications play a critical role in maintaining transparency and public confidence. The shift from newsroom deadlines to navigating legal communications helped her understand how communication professional development can directly influence public perception and trust. Building Public Trust Much of Jazzlyn’s focus centers on combating misinformation and fostering understanding through strategic messaging and community outreach. She leads initiatives like the Understanding the Justice System video series, which bridges gaps between the public and the prosecutor’s office. For professionals focused on continuous professional development in marketing and communications, Jazzlyn’s approach demonstrates how effective messaging can transform complex topics into relatable, transparent stories that strengthen public trust. The Art of Crisis Communication When crises arise, communicators must remain steady, clear, and authentic. Jazzlyn shares how strong media relationships and emotional intelligence are essential tools in communication professional development. Her insights on handling public scrutiny, responding to misinformation, and maintaining composure under pressure offer a real-world perspective for those advancing their marketing professional development. Advice for Aspiring Communicators For those at the start of their communications careers, Jazzlyn encourages curiosity, mentorship, and resilience. She highlights how continuing professional development helps communicators evolve as they adapt to new technologies and media landscapes. Her advice: focus on building meaningful relationships, learn from mistakes, and seek mentors who challenge you to grow both personally and professionally. She also mentions how prominent a role mentorship has played in her career, specifically calling out her mentor Morgan Said, former Chief of Staff for Mayor Lucas of Kansas City.   Jazzlyn Johnson’s journey exemplifies the power of leadership and communication in public service. Her story is a reminder that professional development for communications professionals is not just about learning new skills – it’s about understanding how authenticity, empathy, and strategy intersect to build trust and inspire change.   You can connect with Jazzlyn Johnson on LinkedIn or the Jackson County Prosecutors office on Facebook or X.     00:00 Leading with Empathy with Jazzlyn Johnson 01:06 Early Career Transitions and High-Pressure Environments 02:56 The Importance of Empathy and Trust in Communications 06:18 Challenges and Strategies in Public Service Communications 06:41 Interview with Jazzlyn Johnson: Background and Career Insights 08:15 Lessons from Journalism and Public Service 14:25 Building Public Trust and Handling Misinformation 23:02 Advice for Young Communicators and Career Reflections 27:05 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    32 min

  6. 10/16/2025

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 37 — Great Communicators Secrets: Lessons from 4 Communication Leaders

    In the 37th episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen, Matt Tidwell, PhD, and Julie Masson share the most powerful takeaways from recent guests — covering crisis communications, leadership, social media strategy, and professional growth. Together, they reflect on past guest conversations, offering listeners valuable lessons in marketing communications and career development. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 37 — Secrets Behind Great Communicators: Lessons from 4 Industry Leaders With the addition of Julie, everyone is bringing a renewed sense of focus to continuing professional development within the marketing and communications field. Julie’s fresh perspective has energized the dialogue around professional growth, inspiring marketers to think differently about their own communication professional development. The team plans to revisit and refresh key insights every few episodes, ensuring continuous learning and reflection. Lynn Zimmerman: Change in Communication Lynn Zimmerman’s episode delivered profound insights on internal communications and managing organizational change. Her expertise in change management underscored how communication professional development and effective strategy drive success in both nonprofit and corporate environments. Julie emphasized how Lynn’s advice applies to mission-driven organizations, reinforcing the importance of clear communication to support internal alignment and external impact. Fred Cook: Forecasting Change Fred Cook, director at the USC Annenberg Center for Public Relations, shared leadership lessons rooted in adaptability and continuous professional development. His reflections on mentoring future communicators highlighted the power of curiosity and creativity in career development. Fred’s belief in stepping outside comfort zones resonated deeply with the hosts and listeners alike, serving as a reminder that growth often starts with risk-taking. Amy Whitfield: The Art of Crisis Communications Amy Whitfield’s conversation centered on the complex, high-pressure world of crisis communications – a vital component of external communications strategy. She revealed how thoughtful planning and empathy work hand-in-hand during difficult moments, offering communicators an example of professionalism under pressure. Julie and Matt highlighted Amy’s insights as essential learning for those pursuing professional development for communications professionals. Valerie Morrow: Strategic Social Media Management Valerie Morrow of Dairy Farmers of America discussed how to align social media strategy with broader marketing communications goals. Her emphasis on data-driven storytelling, authenticity, and community-building offered actionable takeaways for marketers in the digital era. Brent also praised Valerie’s approach to focusing on strategy rather than trends – an important principle for anyone invested in marketing professional development. Looking Ahead: Exciting Guests and Conversations The CultivatED Marketer team looks forward to upcoming guests Jazzlyn Johnson and Perna Vierge, who will expand the discussion on communication professional development and career development. Jazzlyn, the director of communications for a local prosecutor’s office in Kansas City, will share advice for early-career professionals, while Perna Vierge from LinkedIn will unpack algorithm changes and effective engagement tactics for external communications.   Stay tuned for more inspiring episodes that challenge how marketing and communications professionals approach learning, leadership, and collaboration in today’s evolving industry.   00:00 Introduction and Episode Overview 01:32 Meet the Hosts 01:45 Recap of Recent Guests 02:52 In-Depth Discussion on Lynn Zimmerman 12:38 Insights from Fred Cook 20:03 Crisis Communications with Amy Whitfield 26:06 Social Media Strategy with Valerie Morrow 33:52 Upcoming Guests and Future Episodes 36:04 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

    37 min

  7. 09/30/2025

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 36 — Data and Storytelling in Social Media: Valerie Morrow’s Playbook

    In the 36th episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen, Matt Tidwell, PhD, and Julie Masson sat down with Valerie Morrow, Director of Social Media at Dairy Farmers of America. Valerie is a seasoned social media leader with nearly 15 years of experience, and explores with the group how marketing communications strategies can adapt in a fast-changing digital environment, integration of data and storytelling, the impact of AI on social media, and the evolving role of social platforms in SEO. Don’t miss Valerie’s expert tips on creating intentional content, building engaged communities, and managing social media strategies effectively. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 36 — Data and Storytelling in Social Media: Valerie Morrow’s Playbook Valerie’s career in social media may have chosen her, but her journey is marked by strategic foresight. While at the University of Central Missouri, Valerie began exploring how social media could fulfill business needs, discussions that laid the groundwork for her career in communication professional development. By consulting with marketing leaders, she identified an emerging opportunity: social media. As she puts it, the key was to be “solution-oriented” — a mindset that supports career development for anyone in the field. The Intersection of Data and Storytelling Valerie emphasizes the power of combining data analytics with storytelling. “They tell a complete story when brought together,” she says. At Dairy Farmers of America, where Valerie is the Director of Social Media, blending long-form storytelling with analytics has been transformative. By using both qualitative insights and strategic narrative construction, her team has revolutionized their marketing professional development efforts—shifting from long-form stories to dynamic video content that drives both internal and external communications. Focus, Not Fads: Strategy Over Tactics One constant in the social media world is change, whether it be platform algorithms or emerging technologies. Valerie encourages a focus on strategy rather than tactics. “Social strategy is more than just posting or chasing trends,” she remarks, advocating for purposeful engagement over mere presence. This aligns closely with the kind of continuing professional development that marketers and communicators need to thrive. By narrowing focus on what aligns with an audience and organizational goals, leaders can strengthen both internal communications and external reach. Staying Ahead with Community and Authenticity Despite the rapid evolution of social platforms, Valerie firmly believes the future lies in blending AI, community, and trust. AI is transforming content creation and analytics, but it cannot replace the human touch in storytelling. She underscores that brands must maintain authenticity to meet the growing audience demand for genuine connections. These insights are key for professional growth and for those pursuing continuous professional development in digital marketing and communications. Beyond operational insights, Valerie offers personal reflection, sharing that effective social media management involves asking “the right questions” to shape impactful strategies. This approach reflects the essence of professional development for communications professionals, reminding marketers to remain curious, adaptable, and intentional in their work. Looking Ahead to Social Media’s Future For those leading teams or embarking on personal development journeys in social media, Valerie suggests managing goals with intent and aligning them with broader organizational objectives. Her approach to layering innovation onto existing strategies is a blueprint for long-term success in marketing communications and career development. To gain further insights or connect with Valerie, she can be reached on LinkedIn. For those seeking excellence in social media and communication professional development, her journey and lessons provide invaluable guidance on how to thrive in today’s evolving digital landscape.   00:00 Introduction to Episode 36: Social Media Insights with Valerie Morrow 01:15 Pre-Interview Discussion: Highlights and Key Takeaways 07:22 Valerie Morrow’s Career Journey and Social Media Expertise 11:16 Blending Data and Storytelling in Social Media 17:42 Authenticity and Innovation in Social Media Strategy 18:27 Navigating the Ever-Changing Social Media Landscape 23:31 Galvanizing Friends for a Road Trip 23:52 Nostalgic Memories and Corn Nuts 24:23 SEO and AI: The New Symbiotic Relationship 25:47 The Evolution of Social Media Content 31:09 Challenges in Social Media Strategy 35:00 Future Trends in Social Media 37:26 Insights from a Master’s Experience 42:32 Effective Goal Setting and Team Management 46:44 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    48 min

  8. 09/16/2025

    CultivatED Marketer Ep. 35 — Unconventional Professional Growth and Future Trends with Fred Cook

    In the 35th episode of CultivatED Marketer – your go-to professional development podcast for marketing and communications professionals – hosts Brent Bowen and Matt Tidwell, PhD are joined by PR legend Fred Cook, former CEO of Golin and current director at the USC Annenberg Center for Public Relations. He offers invaluable insights into leadership qualities he experienced through his remarkable career, and shares his experiences, his transition from PR to academia, and his vision for the future of the industry. This episode is a must-listen for communications and marketing professionals looking for fresh perspectives on leadership and continuous professional growth. CultivatED Marketer Ep. 35 — “Unconventional” Is the Key to Professional Growth according to Fred Cook Fred Cook’s journey is a testament to the value of diverse life experiences. Before ascending to the top of a leading PR firm, Fred’s unorthodox career path saw him working as a hotel doorman, teaching junior high school, and even starting a ride service for late-night revellers. These varied roles contributed significantly to his later success, as highlighted in his book, Improvise: Unconventional Career Advice from an Unlikely CEO. Fred emphasizes that real-world experiences cultivate creativity, courage, and confidence—crucial traits for anyone seeking career development in marketing and communications. Leadership Lessons from Iconic CEOs During his tenure as CEO of Golin, Cook worked with some of the most influential leaders, including Steve Jobs, Herb Kelleher, and Michael Eisner. Each had a distinct leadership style, yet shared common traits such as determination and risk-taking. Cook believes these qualities are vital for success and aims to instill them in his students, teaching them that leadership transcends personality and is rooted in relentless pursuit and resilience—insights that apply directly to professional development for communications professionals. The Importance of Adaptability and Trust Cook recounts his time working with international clients like Nintendo, highlighting the importance of persistence and adaptability. A pivotal moment came when, despite opposition, he successfully convinced Nintendo’s president to implement a marketing strategy that shaped their relationship for decades. This story illustrates how trust, adaptability, and clear external communications can forge long-lasting partnerships and drive success. Reinventing Corporate Culture with G4 Innovation has always been at the heart of Fred’s leadership. At Golin, he spearheaded a cultural shift to a more flexible structure known as G4, transforming how PR functions are organized and delivered. To underline his commitment, Fred famously got a tattoo of the G4 logo, a gesture solidifying the permanence and significance of the initiative. This bold move reflects his belief in more than just walking the walk, but inspiring others through action—a lesson in building stronger company culture through purposeful intentional communication. Transitioning to Academia: Inspiring Future Leaders After an illustrious career in PR, Fred transitioned to academia, driven by a desire to test the theories outlined in his book and to nurture the next generation of creative thinkers. At USC, he encourages students to venture outside their comfort zones, embrace new experiences, and cultivate a mindset of lifelong learning. He argues that reinvention is necessary for the evolving landscape of PR, with AI and digital transformations reshaping communication professionals development. Navigating the Future of PR As director of the Annenberg Center for Public Relations, Fred continues to drive forward-thinking initiatives. He underscores the need for continuing professional development, especially in understanding and leveraging AI. Fred suggests that young professionals who immerse themselves in emerging technologies will have a competitive edge in the job market. Despite the challenges facing the PR industry, including political polarization and evolving media platforms, he remains optimistic. Reflecting on trends like AI branding and the role of purpose-driven communication, Fred stresses the importance of adaptability and curiosity in shaping successful marketing professional development strategies. The report about generative engine optimization (GEO) will be featured in our notes soon. In the meantime, learn a bit more about GEO here. The Unconventional Path to CEO Fred Cook’s career serves as an inspiring blueprint for anyone navigating the complex world of communications. By embracing unconventional paths, fostering creativity, and committing to lifelong learning, Fred exemplifies the leadership qualities needed to thrive in ever-changing environments. His journey reminds us that success is less about following a traditional route and more about forging your own path and daring to be different—insights every communications professional can use to advance their career development and grow through continuous professional development.   00:00 Introduction to Fred Cook’s Unconventional Career 01:16 Fred Cook’s Background and Career Path 02:08 Insights from Fred Cook’s Book 03:16 Fred Cook’s Life Lessons and Advice 07:34 Fred Cook’s Work with High-Profile Clients 19:31 Fred Cook’s Innovative Leadership at Golin 22:46 Transition to Academia and Teaching 23:33 Balancing Two Careers: From CEO to Professor 24:18 Encouraging Bold Thinkers in PR 24:41 The Importance of Broadening Perspectives 26:57 Conformity vs. Individuality in the Workplace 29:41 Persistence Pays Off: The Ask the Captain Story 35:34 The Future of PR: AI and Polarization 44:33 Final Thoughts and Farewell

    47 min
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About

Grow Brand YOU

Information

  • Creator
    Cultivated Marketer
  • Years Active
    2020 - 2026
  • Episodes
    43
  • Copyright
    © 2020 - 2025
  • Show Website
    CultivatED Marketer