Podcast
CMO Confidential
Hosted by Mike Linton // I Hear Everything Podcast Network · EN
Wonder what it's like to control millions of dollars of marketing budget? Manage hundreds of people? Make the decisions on which ideas get to market?
The CMO Confidential podcast shares how it feels to be in that chair of the shortest-tenured position on the C-suite.
We detail the long, hard road most ideas take to get to market & how challenging it is to get the best ones through.
Hosted by Mike Linton -- the former P&G Brand Manager who went on to be the Chief Marketing Officer of Best Buy, eBay, and Farmers Insurance, as well as the Chief Revenue Officer of Ancestry.com and the head marketer at Remington -- this show serves as an ongoing lesson plan for how to get, do, keep, and handle the pressures of the CMO job.
108episodes
Episodes
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Rishad Tobaccowala | The Omnicom IPG Merger - What it Means & What's Next | Part 1
Mar 25, 202500:27:57Summary readyA CMO Confidential Interview with Rishad Tobaccowala, former Publicis Groupe Strategy & Growth Officer, speaker, author, and podcast host of "What's Next." Rishad discusses the media, data, and technology scale benefits driving agency consolidation, the challenge of managing people through a merger, and his new book, Rethinking Work. Key topics include: why talent and marketing will be more important in an AI world; why everyone should operate as a "company of one;" how the world is moving to a "whales and plankton model;" and why clients should consider a "Master Blaster" model. Tune in to hear why he's concerned about mollycoddling and a Mary Poppins analogy. It's a Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious 2-part show!Get the inside scoop on the Omnicom and IPG merger and what it means for the future of marketing! In this episode of CMO Confidential, host and five-time Chief Marketing Officer Mike Linton dives into the critical insights every CMO needs to navigate this game-changing merger. Joined by special guest Rashad Tabakawala, former Chief Strategist and Growth Officer of Publicis Groupe and best-selling author, this discussion unpacks how the merger impacts scale, data, technology, and the role of creative agencies.Key topics include the consolidation of holding companies, the challenges of scaling media, data, and tech, and the future of large agencies versus niche specialists. Rashad also shares his expert perspective on the evolving agency ecosystem and what this means for marketers selecting partners in a rapidly changing landscape. With lessons from past mergers and actionable advice for CMOs, this is a must-watch for marketing leaders looking to stay ahead.Tune in to hear Rashad's unique take on the future of the industry and discover how to position your brand for success in this new era of marketing. Don't forget to subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for exclusive insights and updates. Stay informed, stay connected, and stay ahead with CMO Confidential! #omnicomipgmerger #MarketingStrategy, #GrowthMarketing, #BrandBuilding, #MarketingInnovation, #DigitalMarketingTrends, #BusinessGrowth, #CMOChallenges, #CustomerExperienceCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro00:40 - Rishad Tobaccowala Joins the Show01:27 - Omnicom IPG Merger Analysis11:15 - Future Implications of Omnicom IPG Merger15:18 - Impact on Other Companies18:45 - Future Trends for Businesses22:00 - Client Strategies for Success27:33 - End of Part 1See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Joe Tripodi | Lessons Learned From a Storied Marketing Career | Former CMO Coca-Cola, Mastercard
Mar 18, 202500:32:05Summary readySee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Richard Sanderson | A Rapid Evolution in the Marketplace - The Spencer Stuart 2025 CMO Study
Mar 11, 202500:43:26Summary readyA CMO Confidential Interview with Richard Sanderson, the firm's Marketing, Sales and Communications leader shares his take on the "hot off the presses" study of the Fortune 500. Toplines include stable tenure with variations by industry, how the job and title are rapidly morphing away from the traditional role (only 40% of companies use the CMO title), and the fact that a full "one third" of companies do not have a CMO-like role. Richard shares his observations of marketplace dynamics which include: why more CMO's are moving on to bigger roles than ever before; why he still thinks it is "The Golden Age of Marketing;" the reason there's so few marketers on boards; and how many companies are facing a "cold start" problem with AI. Tune in to hear why "it's not the end of the world to suffer a career setback," and the difference between "Ostriches and Wolves."Dive into the fascinating evolution of the Chief Marketing Officer role with insights from the groundbreaking Spencer Stuart 2025 CMO Study. Host Mike Linton, former CMO of Best Buy, eBay, and Farmers Insurance, welcomes Richard Sanderson, leader of Spencer Stuart's Marketing, Communications, and Sales Practice, to discuss the future of marketing leadership. Key topics include the average CMO tenure, the rise of hybrid titles like Chief Growth Officer, diversity challenges, and the impact of AI on marketing careers and strategies.Tune in to hear exclusive findings on how the CMO role compares to other C-suite positions, why a third of Fortune 500 companies no longer have a CMO, and what it means for your career. Richard shares invaluable advice on leadership, career progression, and adapting to the rapidly changing marketing landscape. Whether you're a seasoned marketer, aspiring leader, or business enthusiast, this episode offers practical insights and actionable strategies to stay ahead.Subscribe to CMO Confidential for more expert perspectives and exclusive content on marketing, leadership, and business innovation. Don’t miss this essential conversation for the future of marketing!#cmo #digitalmarketing #cmoroleevolution #executivemarketinginsights #chiefmarketingofficerCHAPTERS:00:00 - AI Powered Digital Experiences at Adobe Summit00:37 - CMO Confidential Insights01:19 - Introducing Richard Sanderson04:56 - CMO Study Results 202511:09 - CMO Tenure by Industry Differences12:14 - Companies Without a CMO17:15 - Eliminating the CMO Role21:05 - Rise of the Chief Growth Officer23:50 - Future of CMOs: Will They Go Extinct?25:25 - Marketers on Corporate Boards29:43 - AI Impact on Career Development32:53 - Unaddressed Topics in Marketing33:05 - The Diversity Paradox in Marketing34:31 - Importance of External Hires37:34 - Current Focus Areas for Marketers39:16 - Practical Advice and Funniest Story42:43 - Highlights from Adobe SummitSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
SummaryZRG Partners| The Top 5 Mistakes CEOs and Boards Make When Hiring CMOs| Kate Bullis and David Wiser
Mar 4, 202500:33:37Summary readyA CMO Confidential Interview with Kate Bullis and David Wiser, Managing Partners and Global Marketing Practice Leaders for ZRG Partners. Kate and David translate their extensive search experience to classify common mistakes into "movie themes" and share tips on how to recognize if you are directing or reading for a part in a disaster film. From "Play It Again, Sam," to "No, No, It's Really A CMO Role!" to "Death by Committee!" they describe the all-too-familiar plotlines and how to tear apart the hype from the facts. Hints: Look at the dashboard, listen to the questions and beware of the "Hands on the keyboard" role. Tune in to hear why companies should focus on outcomes versus qualifications and why you should always check your Zoom background.Key topics include:- The pitfalls of seeking "playbook-only" candidates.- Why expecting a CMO to be an "orchestra of one" can backfire.- The dangers of hiring for a limited role disguised as a CMO position.- How misalignment among decision-makers leads to "death by committee."- Practical advice for ensuring alignment between company goals and CMO expectations.Tune in to hear actionable insights on avoiding these hiring missteps and discover how to set your marketing leadership up for success in 2025 and beyond. Whether you're a CEO, Board member, or aspiring marketing leader, this episode offers invaluable lessons on leadership, strategy, and organizational growth.Don’t forget to like, share, and subscribe for more candid conversations and expert advice. Stay tuned for more episodes of "CMO Confidential," where we explore the drama, decisions, and strategies at the heart of marketing leadership.#talentacquisition #recruitmentagency #mistakeofhiringpeople #hiringmistakes #freelancerecruiterCHAPTERS:00:00 - AI-Powered Digital Experiences at Adobe Summit00:38 - CMO Confidential Insights01:57 - CMO Job Market Trends 202506:06 - Theme 1: Play It Again Sam10:39 - Theme 2: I Want the Orchestra14:58 - Understanding the CMO Role19:34 - Importance of Specialization22:32 - Challenges of Committee Decisions25:23 - The Mystery of Bad Movies28:10 - Final Questions32:50 - Free Registration for Adobe SummitSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
SummaryGary Briggs | Marketing Observations and Lessons Learned From the 24' Presidential Election | Part 2
Feb 25, 202500:25:49Summary readyWelcome back for Part 2 of A CMO Confidential Interview with Gary Briggs, former CMO of Facebook and eBay, and board member at Etsy, Petco & Combe. As the Paid Media Advisor to the Harris campaign, Gary shares the inside story of what it is like to work at breakneck speed in the rapid spin up of a political organization and all of the marketing that goes with it. Key discussion points include: a look at the billions spent in 18% of the country; what it's like to make tens of thousands of creative assets at speed; why all of the marketing, public relations, social media and news organizations function as a "single thing" for consumers; and the extreme segmentation and personalized messaging that accompanies "the voter file." Tune in to hear if working on a political campaign is right for your career and why campaigns error on the side of "more is more." Get an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the 2024 presidential campaign marketing with "Inside 2024 Campaign Marketing Secrets 🚨." In this episode of CMO Confidential, five-time CMO and host Mike Linton welcomes marketing veteran Gary Briggs to discuss the incredible scope, rapid scaling, and strategic decision-making behind political campaigns. Gary, former marketing leader for Facebook, PayPal, and eBay, shares his hands-on experience working on the Biden-Harris and Harris-Walz campaigns and reveals the strategies that shaped the election’s outcome.Key topics include the unprecedented $10 billion in campaign spending, the role of targeted paid media, and crafting a winning messaging strategy under intense time and budget constraints. Tune in to hear expert insights on voter analytics, game theory in political advertising, and the challenges of operating at a scale unmatched in the corporate world. Discover what it takes to build and dismantle a billion-dollar marketing operation in months and how these lessons apply to any high-stakes business environment.Don't miss this opportunity to learn from top marketing minds! Subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for exclusive content, and stay tuned for part two of this fascinating conversation. #facebookads #emailmarketing ##digitalmarketingCHAPTERS:00:00 - Adobe Summit00:41 - Introduction to the Summit01:24 - Overview of the 2020 Election02:28 - Marketing Strategies in Elections05:33 - Gary's Involvement in the Election09:42 - Understanding the Voter File11:42 - Biden Campaign's Data Resource Allocation13:33 - Media Strategies of the Biden Campaign19:15 - Scale of Biden's Media Operations22:15 - Effective Messaging Techniques24:32 - Consequences of Losing25:29 - Register for Adobe SummitSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
SummaryGary Briggs | Marketing Observations and Lessons Learned From the 2024 Presidential Election
Feb 18, 202500:26:10Summary readyA CMO Confidential Interview with Gary Briggs, former CMO of Facebook and eBay, and board member at Etsy, Petco & Combe. As the Paid Media Advisor to the Harris campaign, Gary shares the inside story of what it is like to work at breakneck speed in the rapid spin up of a political organization and all of the marketing that goes with it. Key discussion points include: a look at the billions spent in 18% of the country; what it's like to make tens of thousands of creative assets at speed; why all of the marketing, public relations, social media and news organizations function as a "single thing" for consumers; and the extreme segmentation and personalized messaging that accompanies "the voter file." Tune in to hear if working on a political campaign is right for your career and why campaigns error on the side of "more is more."For more information on @Adobe Summit visit https://summit.adobe.com/cmoconfidentialGet an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the 2024 presidential campaign marketing with "Inside 2024 Campaign Marketing Secrets 🚨." In this episode of CMO Confidential, five-time CMO and host Mike Linton welcomes marketing veteran Gary Briggs to discuss the incredible scope, rapid scaling, and strategic decision-making behind political campaigns. Gary, former marketing leader for Facebook, PayPal, and eBay, shares his hands-on experience working on the Biden-Harris campaign and reveals the strategies that shaped the election’s outcome.Key topics include the unprecedented $10 billion in campaign spending, the role of targeted paid media, and crafting a winning messaging strategy under intense time and budget constraints. Tune in to hear expert insights on voter analytics, game theory in political advertising, and the challenges of operating at a scale unmatched in the corporate world. Discover what it takes to build and dismantle a billion-dollar marketing operation in months and how these lessons apply to any high-stakes business environment.Don't miss this opportunity to learn from top marketing minds! Subscribe to the CMO Confidential Newsletter for exclusive content, and stay tuned for part two of this fascinating conversation.#hubspot #facebookads #emailmarketing #hubspotmarketing #digitalmarketingCHAPTERS:00:00 - Adobe Summit00:41 - Introduction to the Summit01:24 - Overview of the 2020 Election02:28 - Marketing Strategies in Elections05:33 - Gary's Involvement in the Election09:42 - Understanding the Voter File11:42 - Biden Campaign's Data Resource Allocation13:33 - Media Strategies of the Biden Campaign19:15 - Scale of Biden's Media Operations22:15 - Effective Messaging Techniques24:32 - Consequences of Losing25:29 - Register for Adobe SummitSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
SummaryGabrielle Kessler | SVP Brand Experience, We Are Social | A Primer on Experiential Marketing
Feb 11, 202500:29:54Summary readyA CMO Confidential Interview with Gabrielle Kessler, SVP Brand Experience at @wearesocial + Narrative, and experienced agency executive. Gabrielle discusses why experiential marketing should be part of an integrated plan versus a stand alone stunt, the value of delivering an emotional memory, and how experiential can reach "ad blind" customers. Key topics include: why marketers should start with objectives and targets versus a "tactic" they see in the marketplace; setting realistic expectations; and how experiential marketing can serve as an "amplifier." Tune in to learn about an"anamorphic" promotion and a story on Ryan Reynolds toilet seat covers at Comic-Con.For more information on @Adobe Summit visit https://summit.adobe.com/cmoconfidentialUnlock the secrets of experiential marketing in this episode of CMO Confidential! Join experienced host and five-time CMO, Mike Linden, as he sits down with Gabrielle Kessler, SVP of Brand Experience and Production at We Are Social and Narrative, to explore the strategies and insights every CMO needs to know. With a career spanning leadership roles at Best Buy, eBay, and Farmers Insurance, Mike guides this engaging conversation, offering unparalleled perspectives on marketing’s most dynamic trends.Key topics include defining experiential marketing, its role in driving emotional connections with consumers, and how brands like Game of Thrones and Adidas have leveraged immersive experiences to amplify their reach. Gabrielle also shares practical tips on integrating experiential tactics into broader marketing strategies, avoiding common pitfalls, and using AI to personalize and elevate brand experiences. Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just starting, you’ll gain actionable advice to drive engagement and build loyalty.Tune in to hear real-world examples, humorous anecdotes, and expert recommendations on making experiential marketing work for your brand. Don’t miss out on this masterclass in innovative marketing strategies. Subscribe to CMO Confidential and stay ahead in the ever-evolving marketing landscape. For more exclusive insights and episodes, follow us on your favorite podcast platform.#influencermarketing #b2bmarketing #digitalmarketing #experientialmarketingagency #immersivebrandingCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:17 - What is Experiential Marketing?07:15 - Experiential Marketing in the Marketing Mix09:58 - Measuring Impact of Experiential Marketing13:07 - Ideal Brands for Experiential Marketing16:01 - Successful Small Business Examples18:10 - Signs of Potential Failure in Experiential Marketing20:00 - Common Mistakes in Experiential Marketing23:16 - AI in Marketing27:04 - Final Questions30:55 - @Adobe Summit InsightsSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
SummaryJosh Golden | Vulnerability & Personal Branding - Two 2-Edged Swords | CMO Confidential
Feb 4, 202500:33:18Summary readyA CMO Confidential Interview with Josh Golden, CMO of Quad, Creator of Eureka and 3 Things, former Publisher & President of Ad Age. Josh outlines the key components of both personal and business vulnerability and offers tips regarding the balance between enough and too much disclosure. He also shares how to build a personal brand without "overshadowing" your company brand. Key discussion topics include; why authenticity is just the starting point; the balance between vulnerability and "wishy-washy" decision making; why rebrands don't work unless they are "accepted by the brand organism;" and why "when in doubt, you shouldn't do the personal branding stuff." Tune in to hear a story about Muenster Cheese and "The 24-Hour Rule."Discover the secrets to authentic leadership and personal branding with "CMO Branding: Don’t Let Your Ego Overshadow the Company." In this insightful episode of CMO Confidential, hosted by former Best Buy and eBay CMO Mike Linton, special guest Josh Golden—CMO of Quad and creator of "Eureka and Three Things"—shares invaluable lessons on navigating the complexities of being a marketing leader.Key topics include the double-edged nature of vulnerability in the C-suite, balancing personal and company branding, and actionable advice on building a sustainable personal brand without overshadowing your organization. Josh also offers real-world examples from his career, including how authenticity, gratitude, and cultural awareness shape effective leadership. Tune in to hear practical strategies for managing rebrands, fostering team trust, and integrating personal authenticity into professional success.Gain unparalleled insights into marketing leadership, customer lifetime value, and the evolving role of CMOs in today’s challenging business environment. Don’t miss this engaging discussion packed with actionable advice to elevate your marketing career.Subscribe to CMO Confidential for exclusive content and stay connected for more transformative marketing insights.#personalbrand #contentmarketing #digitalmarketing #personalbranding #socialmediamarketingCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro02:18 - Vulnerability in Leadership04:02 - Balancing Vulnerability as a Leader06:21 - Personal Experiences with Vulnerability09:35 - Business Vulnerability: Finding the Balance14:59 - Building a Personal Brand19:59 - Impact of a Growing Personal Brand23:45 - Understanding Rebranding26:17 - Defining Completion of a Rebrand29:50 - Final Thoughts32:40 - Closing RemarksSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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Prof Daniel McCarthy | Door Dash and Food Delivery - The Case For Building a Subscription Model
Jan 28, 202500:36:27Summary readyA CMO Confidential Interview with Dr. Dan McCarthy, Professor of Marketing at Maryland. Dan returns for the third time to share research on the food delivery business and how marketers can "bend the growth curve" by implementing a subscription model. He discusses the engineering behind various subscription models and why most marketers should "at least" consider these programs. Key topics include: the difference between "promiscuous" and "heavy" buyers; balancing the "give versus the get," and how AI may drive the implementation of more models. Tune in to hear why charging for membership is a good idea.Are subscription models the future of business growth? 📦 In this episode of CMO Confidential, former CMO Mike Linton sits down with Dr. Dan McCarthy, a renowned marketing expert, tenured professor at the University of Maryland, and co-founder of Theta Equity Partners, to uncover "The Truth About Subscription Models." Tune in to hear how subscription programs like DoorDash’s DashPass and Postmates are reshaping customer behavior, boosting customer lifetime value (CLTV), and driving competitive advantages in today’s market.Key topics include:- The fundamentals of customer lifetime value (CLTV) and its role in subscription success.- Insights from Dr. McCarthy's groundbreaking research on the impact of subscription models on market share and consumer loyalty.- How high-frequency customers, competitive dynamics, and strategic design affect subscription profitability.- The surprising effects of subscription models on competitors and adjacent industries like grocery and dining.- Practical advice for businesses considering implementing a subscription model.Whether you're a marketer, advertiser, or business leader, this episode offers actionable insights into how subscription models can bend the curve of customer retention and profitability. Learn how AI and evolving consumer behavior are shaping marketing strategies in this dynamic space.Subscribe to CMO Confidential for more expert insights, and stay tuned for future episodes featuring in-depth discussions on marketing strategies, leadership, and industry trends. Don’t forget to like, comment, and share to keep the conversation going!#growthhacking #digitalmarketing #conversionrateoptimization #marketinganalytics #customerretentionCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:14 - Dan McCarthy Insights02:38 - Customer Lifetime Value (CLTV)05:59 - Food Delivery Trends09:28 - Dan’s Key Findings13:16 - Postmates Subscription Model Analysis17:40 - Subscription Model Winners and Losers20:09 - Late Entry to Subscription Models23:52 - Industries at Risk with Subscriptions26:26 - Emerging Industry Sleepers27:20 - AI Impact on Subscription Models31:33 - Practical Advice for Subscriptions35:36 - Acknowledgments and Props35:40 - Like & SubscribeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
SummaryKip Knight | Putting the Chief in CMO - Being Good at Marketing Isn't Enough | CMO Confidential
Jan 21, 202500:30:01Summary readyA CMO Confidential Interview with Kip Knight, founder of CMO Coaches, formerly CMO of Taco Bell and H&R Block US President. Kip breaks marketing leadership into "3 Chiefs" - Marketing Leader, Member of the Exec (First) Team, and Company Ambassador and offers tips for how to sequence and think about all three. Key discussion topics include: why running marketing is like being a conductor; how to become a respected member of "The First Team" by remembering "marketing isn't a special function;" how staying "hungry, humble, and smart" allows for continuous learning; and why "you need to go to school every day" throughout your career to "earn the CMO title." Tune in to hear tips for development and why it is usually a disservice to your people to tell them they are "great."Why is being a CMO the toughest job in business? Tune in as Mike Linton, five-time CMO and host of CMO Confidential, dives into the challenges and nuances of this high-stakes role with guest Kip Knight, founder of CMO Coaches and former CMO of Taco Bell. In this insightful conversation, Kip shares his framework for success, including the "three chiefs" concept—Marketing Chief, First Team Chief, and Company Ambassador Chief—and how these roles shape a successful chief marketing officer.Key topics include how CMOs can align with CEOs and CFOs, the importance of storytelling and customer insights, and the necessity of staying ahead in a rapidly evolving marketing landscape. Kip also offers valuable advice for aspiring CMOs, from leveraging curiosity and continuous learning to navigating the balance between creativity and financial acumen.Whether you're an aspiring marketer, seasoned professional, or business leader, this episode is packed with actionable insights on leadership, team-building, and making marketing a growth engine for your company. Subscribe to CMO Confidential for exclusive content and actionable strategies to elevate your marketing leadership skills. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from industry veterans and sharpen your edge in the competitive world of marketing.#marketinganalytics #productmanagement #digitalmarketing #marketingcapabilities #socialmediamarketingCHAPTERS:00:00 - Intro01:03 - Chief Marketing Officer Role02:21 - CMO Responsibilities Overview03:25 - Marketing Leadership Insights08:58 - Team Leadership Strategies10:31 - Team Leadership Strategies17:34 - Company Ambassador Role21:00 - Preparing for CMO Position27:07 - Final Thoughts and Advice27:34 - Journey as a Reward29:40 - Peloton's Business Journey29:46 - Importance of Finance for Marketers29:50 - CMO Tenure ChallengesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
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