In this episode, Geno Schellenberger sits down with VCU Brandcenter faculty Tom Scharpf, Chair and Professor of Art Direction, and Holly Hessler, Chair and Professor of Copywriting. They explore what makes the Brandcenter’s master’s program a launchpad for successful advertising careers, from its collaborative, real-world focus to its supportive, creative community.

Tom and Holly share their journeys from industry pros to educators, reflecting on the transformative Brandcenter experience, the power of networking, and the vibrant creative energy in Richmond. They highlight the value of mentorship, the ideal Brandcenter candidates, and the rewarding nature of teaching in advertising.

Fall applications are open!

Check out Brandcenter here: https://brandcenter.vcu.edu/

In this episode of the Breaking & Entering Advertising Podcast, Geno sits down with Elizabeth Paul, EVP and Chief Brand Officer at The Martin Agency, live from the heart of the New York Comedy Festival. Elizabeth shares exclusive insights into the agency’s collaboration with the festival and why they’re working to bring humor back to the forefront of advertising. From the iconic Geico and Oreo campaigns to new research on comedy’s decline in ads, Elizabeth reveals the industry’s hesitation to embrace humor, the barriers marketers face, and why comedy might be the most powerful tool for connecting with audiences today. Tune in for a fascinating conversation on balancing purpose and playfulness, breaking down creative roadblocks, and what the future holds for funny ads.

Connect with us: https://www.breaking-entering.com/

Geno sits down with Andy Nathan, founder and CEO of Fortnight Collective, an innovative agency based in Boulder, Colorado, known for accelerating brand growth with their unique two-week “brand hack” process. Andy shares his journey from media at Y&R to leading teams at Ogilvy and Crispin Porter + Bogusky, all the way to founding Fortnight Collective. They dive into Andy’s philosophy of “better hustle” and why moving faster matters in today’s competitive landscape. From his work with iconic brands like Steamboat and Bragg’s Apple Cider Vinegar to his advice for those looking to break into or thrive in advertising, this conversation is packed with insights for aspiring and seasoned advertisers alike.

Connect with Andy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-nathan-7700553/

Learn more about Fortnight Collective: https://fortnightcollective.com/

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In this episode, Geno Schellenberger interviews Chris Noble, founder of Consiglieri, who shares his extensive experience in the advertising industry. The conversation explores the challenges faced by CMOs, the importance of operations in creative work, and how Consiglieri supports brands in modernizing their marketing strategies. Chris discusses the transition from agency to client-side work, the significance of building a strong team, and the future vision for Consiglieri in the evolving marketing landscape.

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-noble-6352713/

Geno Schellenberger interviews Erin Regan, Managing Partner and Co-Owner at Full Contact Advertising. Erin shares her journey from “new business hustler” at Arnold Worldwide to partner at Full Contact, where she leads the agency’s approach to “branded performance”—blending brand-building with bottom-line results to drive consumer impact. We explore Full Contact’s work with brands like ButcherBox, Body Armor, and First Citizens Bank, and Erin offers advice for young pros on breaking into advertising and building a career with purpose. Whether you’re agency-side, brand-side, or just starting out, this conversation is packed with insights on succeeding in today’s ad landscape

In this episode of the Breaking and Entering Brandside podcast, host Jack Westerkamp interviews Kate Kenner Archibald, the Chief Marketing Officer of Dash Hudson. They discuss the evolution of social media management, the role of AI in marketing, and Kate's journey from the beauty industry to tech. Kate shares insights on balancing creativity with data-driven decision-making, the importance of in-person engagement, and practical advice for aspiring marketers.

Connect with Kate: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-kenner-archibald-43b1716/

Learn more about Dash Hudson: https://www.dashhudson.com/

Geno Schellenberger chats with Greg Anderson, CEO of Omaha-based Bailey Lauerman, about the agency's unique perspective on representing America "from the middle." Greg shares fresh insights from the agency’s latest research, showing how brands can bridge divides by focusing on shared values like unity, honesty, and protected freedoms. Through examples like Heineken’s Worlds Apart campaign, Greg highlights how brands can play a meaningful role in bringing Americans together. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in brand authenticity and connecting with real people beyond the coasts.

Watch the "World's Apart" Ad Referenced: https://www.bing.com/videos/riverview/relatedvideo?q=heineken+worlds+apart+video&mid=425E6C10CCB7E8179A09425E6C10CCB7E8179A09&FORM=VIRE

Connect with Greg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andersengreg/

Learn more about BL:

https://www.baileylauerman.com/

Ever wondered how data-driven decisions can turn marketing from a cost center into a powerful profit engine? In this episode of the Breaking and Entering Advertising Podcast, Geno sits down with Bradley Keefer, Chief Revenue Officer at Keen Decision Systems, to reveal how brands can bridge the gap between finance and marketing for measurable, long-term success. Bradley shares insights on predictive media planning, advice for aspiring sales professionals, and the evolving role of the CMO in a tech-driven landscape. Packed with strategies for brand and performance marketers, this episode offers a roadmap to navigating the future of advertising.

Connect with Bradley here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradley-keefer/

Learn more about Keen Decision Systems here: https://keends.com/

In this episode of the Breaking and Entering podcast, host Geno interviews John McKelvey, founder and chief creative officer of Mirimar Creative Group. They discuss John's journey from Sydney, Australia to the United States, his early advertising experiences, and his agency's founding. John shares insights on the creative process, the importance of originality, and the challenges of breaking into the advertising industry. He also highlights key projects and the philosophy behind Mirimar's success, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and doing bold work.

Connect with John here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmckelvey/

Check out Mirimar here:

https://www.mirimarus.com/