Her Story to the Top

 Guest: Natasha Jakubowski, Chief Innovation Officer & Global Partner, Anomaly

Episode Overview

In this episode of Her Story to the Top, Helen Vaysman speaks with Natasha Jakubowski, Chief Innovation Officer and Global Partner at Anomaly. Natasha shares her unconventional career journey, insights into innovation and leadership, and what she's learned from interviewing successful founders on her own podcast, Professional Jealousy.

From moving to the U.S. without a clear plan to helping companies develop breakthrough products and experiences, Natasha’s story highlights the power of curiosity, adaptability, and the courage to try something new.

This conversation explores leadership, career growth, balancing family and ambition, and how AI is reshaping the future of marketing and innovation.

In This Episode, We Discuss:

• How Natasha built a career without a traditional plan
• Transitioning from advertising strategy to innovation leadership
• Why trying — even imperfectly — matters more than overthinking
• The realities of balancing career success and family life
• Leadership lessons learned without formal training
• The future of marketing in an AI-driven world
• Why developing your own voice matters more than ever
• Career advice for young professionals entering marketing and innovation
• Natasha’s passion projects and advisory ambitions
• The story behind Disney’s MagicBand and other innovation work

Key Takeaways

1. You don’t need a perfect career plan
Natasha built her career by identifying what she enjoyed — and gradually removing what she didn’t.

2. Try more, overthink less
A major lesson from interviewing successful founders:
"Do I have more to lose by not trying?" became a guiding question.

3. Leadership is built over time
Natasha emphasizes kindness, transparency, and communication as essential leadership skills — even without formal training.

4. AI is reshaping marketing
Future professionals should:

• Learn AI tools
• Use AI as a thinking partner
• Develop expertise in a niche
• Create content to build their voice

5. Recognition matters
Simple feedback and acknowledgment can have more impact than monetary rewards, especially for junior team members.

About the Podcast

Her Story to the Top brings you real conversations with female leaders who have claimed their seat at the C-Suite table — sharing the lessons, challenges, and breakthroughs along the way.

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