Agency Side

🎧 In this episode of the Agency Side Podcast, host Justin Levinson chats with Max Pollack, Co-Founder and Managing Partner of MATTE Projects, a creative agency merging entertainment and advertising.

Max shares how his passion for music led to building a world-class creative agency known for crafting unforgettable brand experiences and cultivating fandom through culture-driven storytelling.

The conversation dives into the evolution of experiential marketing, the intersection of creativity and AI, and the tools that power MATTE’s work. Max also shares his advice for aspiring creatives and insights on fostering a strong, positive company culture.

Tune in for an inspiring look at how creativity thrives when art, technology, and experience collide.

🎧 In this episode of the Agency Side Podcast, host Justin Levinson sits down with Grace Leong, CEO of Hunter, one of the industry’s leading PR and marketing communications agencies.

Grace opens up about her path into public relations, the power of storytelling in shaping brand narratives, and her people-first approach to leadership that fosters a positive workplace culture.

The conversation dives into the evolution of PR, the growing role of AI in communication strategies, and the realities of managing crises in today’s fast-paced world. Grace also shares recent wins at Hunter and how she maintains balance beyond work.

Tune in for an inspiring discussion on leadership, storytelling, and the changing face of modern communications.

🎧 In this episode of the Agency Side Podcast, host Justin Levinson chats with Bre Rossetti, Chief Strategy Officer at Havas Media Network & Arnold Worldwide.

Bre shares her journey in advertising, the creative strategies behind successful campaigns, and how collaboration with clients drives impactful work.

They discuss hiring and team dynamics, the role of AI and technology in shaping modern advertising, and how to balance data with creativity—all while keeping curiosity and inspiration alive beyond the office.

Tune in for a deep dive into leadership, strategy, and building teams that thrive in a fast-changing industry.

🎧 In this episode of the Agency Side Podcast, host Justin Levinson chats with Jay Rinsky, Founder and Chief Creative Officer of Little Cinema & LCDigital, an Emmy-nominated experiential agency redefining live entertainment and immersive storytelling.

Jay shares how an accidental dive into audio-visual performance led him to build one of the most innovative experiential studios collaborating with top entertainment brands.

They explore the ups and downs of growing Little Cinema, how the pandemic reshaped their creative approach, and the cutting-edge technology that helped them adapt and evolve.

Tune in for a deep dive into creative integrity, client collaboration, and the balance between art and innovation in the ever-changing world of immersive entertainment.

🎧 In this episode of the Agency Side Podcast, host Justin Levinson sits down with Nic Hill, Co-founder & Chief Innovation Officer at Sawhorse Productions, to unpack his journey from indie filmmaking to leading a studio that creates immersive experiences and branded content for some of the world’s biggest brands.

Nic shares how storytelling, technology, and collaboration come together in modern production — and what it takes to stay ahead in a landscape shaped by constant innovation.

The conversation dives into the challenges and opportunities brought by emerging tech like AI, the power of strong client relationships, and the future of immersive marketing in a rapidly evolving digital world.

Tune in for insights on creativity, technology, and leadership from one of the minds shaping the next era of branded experiences.

🎧 In this episode of the Agency Side Podcast, host Justin Levinson sits down with Dominick Paielli, Co-founder of the Clementine Group and CreatorCore, to explore the fast-moving world of the creator economy.

Dominick shares his journey into talent management, the challenges of building and scaling a modern agency, and how technology plays a vital role in supporting creators. He breaks down strategies for negotiating brand deals, why clear communication is essential, and what it takes to stay competitive in a crowded space.

The conversation also dives into Dominick's vision for the future of his business, the balance between entrepreneurship and family life, and the support that fueled his path as a Co-founder.

Tune in for a candid look at building in the creator economy, leveraging tech, and leading with both strategy and heart.

🎧 In this episode of the Agency Side Podcast, host Justin Levinson sits down with Jason Swenk, a former agency owner who scaled and sold his business before launching Agency Mastery 360 to mentor others.

Jason reflects on his path from “accidental” agency founder to seasoned entrepreneur, sharing the clarity and systems that fueled growth and the tough choice to sell. He offers practical insights on building a sustainable agency culture, attracting top talent, and creating experiences that strengthen community.

The conversation also dives into the shift from coaching to community-driven growth, the lessons behind building a sellable agency, and how personal hobbies and interests can inspire fresh perspectives in business.

Tune in for a candid discussion on scaling smart, leading with clarity, and finding balance as an agency owner.

🎧 In this episode of the Agency Side Podcast, host Justin Levinson sits down with Stephanie Spicer, President of Luquire, an independent agency with a long-standing reputation for shaping brands.

Stephanie shares her unexpected journey into advertising and the leadership style that has guided her career. She opens up about Luquire’s unique approach to strategy and creativity, and how the agency continues to thrive in an evolving landscape.

The conversation explores the impact of remote work on talent acquisition, memorable campaigns that showcase Luquire’s strengths, and why human connection is more vital than ever in the age of AI.

Stephanie also reflects on the challenges and opportunities of navigating today’s rapidly changing industry and what lies ahead for Luquire’s future.

This episode offers fresh insights on leadership, adaptability, and creativity in modern advertising.

Tune in for a conversation on strategy, connection, and the future of agencies.

🎧 In this episode of the Agency Side Podcast, host Justin Levinson sits down with Anson Sowby, Co-Founder and CEO of Battery—a creative agency behind bold, innovative campaigns.

Anson shares his path from the gaming industry to building Battery, offering insights into how marketing strategies have evolved and why influencer marketing continues to be a powerful tool. He reflects on the agency’s groundbreaking partnership with Netflix, the challenges and wins of scaling an agency, and how AI is shaping the future of advertising.

Beyond the business side, Anson opens up about his personal passions and what keeps him inspired outside of agency life.

This episode offers an inside look at the creativity, resilience, and forward-thinking approach that drive Battery’s success.

Tune in for a conversation on innovation, growth, and the future of creative advertising.

🎧 In this episode of the Agency Side Podcast, host Justin Levinson sits down with Dustin Arts, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Familiar Creatures—an independent agency blending creativity, culture, and strategy to deliver standout campaigns.

Dustin shares the story of Familiar Creatures’ journey, from navigating the shift between freelancing and agency life to building a strong culture that drives both people and ideas forward. He reflects on the challenges and rewards of scaling an agency, the importance of client relationships, and how collaboration fuels creativity.

They dive into the strategies behind successful campaigns for brands like Duke’s Mayo and Crunch Fitness, the tools that streamline their creative process, and how an agency’s culture can shape the work it produces. Beyond the business side, Dustin also opens up about balancing personal passions with agency leadership in the fast-paced world of advertising.

This episode offers a candid look at what it takes to build and grow a modern independent agency—highlighting the creativity, resilience, and culture that power Familiar Creatures’ success.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on scaling, collaboration, and the art of making advertising that truly connects.