Napkin Sketches

Ashley Gorrie
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Napkin Sketches is a podcast by Gorrie that uncovers how bold ideas become unforgettable brands. From early sketches to full-scale strategy, we talk with the thinkers, makers, and leaders shaping the future of marketing and design. Each conversation reveals the creative sparks, smart risks, and real stories behind building brands that last.

Episodes

  1. Jul 30

    Building a Legacy: Lessons from Family Business Leaders

    In this episode, industry leaders Ashley Gorrie, Kim Tchai, Bob Gorrie and Ed Tchai share insights on family business, global collaboration, innovation, and adapting to technological change. They discuss their journeys, challenges, and the importance of trust, heritage, and future-focused strategies. family business, global collaboration, innovation, leadership, heritage, adaptation, technology, entrepreneurship, sustainability, future of retail Family business succession and transition Global industry collaboration through GIC Innovation and re-inventing companies Balancing heritage and modernity Leadership and trust in business Adapting to technological advancements like AI Sustainable practices and environmental responsibility The importance of human connection in digital age Lessons learned from past ventures and failures Preparing the next generation of leaders Kim Tchai Ed TchaiAshley Gorrie Robert Gorrie Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the GIC and Industry Connections 00:30 The Role of GIC in Global Industry Sharing 01:28 Starting Collaborations and Shared Business Models 02:25 Early Ventures and Lessons in India 03:19 Learning from Past Failures and Timing in Markets 06:35 Experience with Blackberry and Standardization 07:28 Building Trust and Deep Connections in Business 08:41 Family Business Heritage and Leadership Transitions 10:07 Using Heritage to Define Modern Identity 12:02 The Importance of Quality and Customer Service 13:17 Challenges of Multi-Generation Family Businesses 14:11 Adapting to Rapid Technological Changes 15:50 Balancing Family and Business Life 17:02 Transitioning Leadership and Ownership 19:23 Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders 22:57 Learning from Past Crises and Building Resilience 25:34 Maintaining Customer Focus and Innovation 27:14 Long-Term Vision and Future of Retail 28:10 Building Self-Organized and Adaptive Companies 29:33 Embracing Technology and Creativity 34:00 The Impact of AI and Future Technologies 36:09 Environmental Responsibility and Sustainability 37:48 Preparing Future Generations and Leadership 39:17 Advice for Aspiring Leaders and Entrepreneurs 40:05 Understanding Client Needs and Industry Trends 42:24 Lessons Learned as Entrepreneurs 43:42 The Value of Expanding Vision and Creativity 45:00 Balancing Family, Business, and Personal Life resources Global In-Store Communications Association (GIC) - https://gic.org guest links LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimtchai/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/edtchai/LinkedIn -https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobgorrie/

  2. May 25

    Pop-Ups, the World Cup, and the Future of Physical Retail — with Nick Iozzo, Founder of Ancillary Agency

    What turns a shopping mall, hotel lobby, or downtown plaza into a place people actually want to show up for? In this episode, Ashley sits down with Nick Iozzo — founder of Ancillary Agency and a 25-year veteran of Canadian commercial real estate — to unpack the creative, short-term side of the industry that most people never see. Nick spent 14 years at Rogers building out their retail real estate strategy, then crossed the boardroom table to lead specialty leasing at Cadillac Fairview and Oxford Properties. Five years ago, in the middle of the pandemic, he launched Ancillary Agency to fill a gap no one else was serving: third-party support for pop-ups, brand activations, sponsorships, and film productions across every Canadian province and territory. In this conversation: The three things every great brand activation delivers — revenue, traffic, and guest experienceWhy most retailers still aren't profitable online, and how the return-rate math is pushing brands back into physical storesThe story of a K-pop pop-up that drew overnight lineups from hours awayHow FIFA's strict two-kilometre sponsorship exclusion zone is shaping brand strategy for the 2026 World Cup in Toronto and VancouverWhat we learned from the Eras Tour about managing major events in major citiesWhy Gen Alpha is rediscovering the mall — and what the 90s revival means for retailThe split happening in shopping centres: AAA malls thriving, mid-tier under pressure, small markets adaptingWhether you work in retail, real estate, brand marketing, or you're just curious about why the physical world still matters in a digital one, this episode is worth your time. Guest: Nick Iozzo, Founder, Ancillary AgencyHost: Ashley Gorrie

  3. Jan 1

    The Power of Advisory Relationships: Insights from Tom Wright on Navigating Life and Career

    Ashley Gorrie and Tom Wright explore the dynamics of advisory relationships, the importance of balancing personal and professional life, and the role of sales in business. They delve into Tom's experiences with the UFC and how advocacy and leadership play crucial roles in building a brand. The discussion emphasizes the significance of relationships and community involvement in achieving success. takeaways The relationship between an advisor and advisee is two-way.Balancing work, family, and community is essential for personal fulfillment.Sales is not just about selling; it's about solving problems.Building a brand requires commitment and understanding of the local market.Advocacy for your team and brand is crucial for leadership.Managing what you can control helps in navigating challenges.Relationships are foundational to problem-solving in business.Understanding the facts over emotions leads to better decision-making.Community involvement enriches personal and professional life.Success is about aligning personal values with business goals.

  4. 12/08/2025

    The Evolution of Global Brand Marketing with Jonathan Johnson

    In this enlightening conversation, Ashley Gorrie and Jonathan Johnson (JJ) explore the evolution of marketing strategies in the digital age, focusing on the importance of data, the role of AI, and the dynamics of agency-brand relationships. JJ shares his career journey from graphic design to e-commerce, highlighting key insights on global marketing, brand consistency, and the necessity of adapting to consumer expectations in retail. The discussion emphasizes the balance between data-driven decision-making and creative storytelling, offering valuable advice for emerging brands navigating the complexities of both digital and physical retail environments.

    The Evolution of Global Brand Marketing with Jonathan Johnson

  5. 11/17/2025

    Building Brands: Lessons from Crocs and BioSteel with Andrew Nichols

    In this engaging conversation, Ashley Gorrie and Andrew Nichols explore Andrew's journey from his early days in sales to his pivotal roles at Crocs and BioSteel, and now at Warroad Hockey. They discuss the importance of strong partnerships, the challenges of scaling a business, and the unique role of a Chief Revenue Officer. Andrew shares valuable insights on brand growth, market dynamics, and the significance of aligning passion with purpose in one's career.

    Building Brands: Lessons from Crocs and BioSteel with Andrew Nichols

  6. 11/28/2024

    Ralph Dunning - Finding Freedom with Foreign Rider

    On this episode of Napkin Sketches, Ash chats with Ralph Dunning about life as an entrepreneur, where passion and wellness intersect and how to find freedom in ourselves. Ralph is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in the fashion and sportswear industries. His career began in 1993 with the founding of Rip N Hammer, a brand focused on functional, high-quality clothing for the cycling, surf, and motocross communities. His passion for performance-oriented apparel laid the groundwork for his future ventures. In 2001, Ralph shifted his focus to the golf apparel market and founded Dunning Golf. Recognizing a need for high-performance yet stylish golf wear, he pioneered a new approach by combining advanced technical fabrics with classic design. This innovative blend made Dunning Golf a standout brand, quickly gaining a loyal following among both professional and amateur golfers. Ralph's most recent venture, Foreign Rider Co., was launched in 2009. The brand represents the culmination of his decades of experience, offering premium, ethically produced apparel that merges performance with lifestyle. Throughout his career, Ralph Dunning has been a visionary in the apparel industry, known for his ability to predict market trends, his commitment to quality craftsmanship, and his ability to combine functionality with style.

  7. 08/26/2024

    The Legacy Formula: Gorrie x TCHAI

    Join the Gorrie & TCHAI teams as they take us on an inspiring journey through the evolution of their multi-generational companies. Discover the secrets behind their triumphs, learn from their stumbles, and gain valuable insights from the critical lessons they've mastered along the way. Whether you're an entrepreneur or simply curious about building a lasting legacy, this episode is packed with wisdom that spans generations.

  • 7 Episodes

About

Napkin Sketches is a podcast by Gorrie that uncovers how bold ideas become unforgettable brands. From early sketches to full-scale strategy, we talk with the thinkers, makers, and leaders shaping the future of marketing and design. Each conversation reveals the creative sparks, smart risks, and real stories behind building brands that last.

Information

  • Creator
    Ashley Gorrie
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    7
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Ashley Gorrie
  • Show Website
    Napkin Sketches