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In this episode of Marketing vs. The World, host Abbie Dando sits down with Jake, Managing Director at Curated, to discuss why 2025 might be the year your business should take a step back to take a step forward. Jake shares his unconventional journey into leadership, his experience of transforming Curated into a consultancy-driven agency, and why adopting a holistic, connected marketing strategy is crucial in today’s fast-paced world.
On a personal note, Jake reflects on the challenges of balancing professional success with finding time to “just be” amidst life’s constant demands. It’s an inspiring and insightful conversation for marketers, business owners, and anyone striving to strike the perfect balance.
Jake’s Career Journey
Why Businesses Need to Take a Step Back
Key Marketing Insights for 2025
Personal Reflection: Finding Time to “Just Be”
Key Takeaways:
If you enjoyed the discussion about managing time and reducing "micro stresses," check out this insightful podcast: The Top Things Doctors Are Missing & Why We Are Sicker Than Ever.
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Marketing Vs The World is produced by Urban Podcasts.
In this episode of Marketing vs. The World, host Abbie Dando chats with Michael Bird, Head of Audio at a US-based tech company, about the power of podcasting for brands. Michael shares his journey into audio, insights into launching a successful podcast and why this medium is a game-changer for businesses.
Michael Bird’s Background
Michael shares his non-linear career path, which took him from retail sales to IT support, marketing and eventually audio. He reflects on his first brand podcast and how his love for audio evolved through hosting a local radio show. Now, as Head of Audio, Michael oversees global podcasting initiatives and shares lessons from creating standout brand podcasts.
Why Brands Should Launch a Podcast
Podcasts are a unique channel, allowing brands to engage audiences at times no other content can—like during commutes or while completing chores. Unlike blogs or videos, podcasts don’tdemand undivided attention, offering long-form engagement that builds loyalty and trust. A well-produced podcast can enhance brand authenticity, establish thought leadership and act as a versatile vehicle for campaigns and events.
Building the Business Case for Podcasts
Michael explains that podcasts provide a powerful opportunity to capture an audience in moments other channels can’t, create deep, long-term brand engagement and complement existing marketing efforts, including live events and campaigns. While direct lead generation can be challenging, podcasts excel at top-of-funnel awareness and thought leadership.
What It Takes to Launch a Great Podcast
Starting small but planning meticulously is key, according to Michael. Creating a pilot episode can help refine the format and set expectations. He highlights the importance of strong production values, including sharp editing and pacing and ensuring that content is entertaining and engaging for the target audience. Brands may benefit from partnering with experienced producers to elevate the quality of their podcasts.
Trends in Podcasting
Michael notes that video podcasting is becoming increasingly important, with platforms like Spotify and YouTube investing in this format. AI tools are simplifying editing and production, but authenticity will remain vital. The podcast landscape is also maturing, with fewer shows but higher production values and audience expectations.
Michael’s Advice for Aspiring Podcasters
Michael advises anyone thinking of launching a podcast to build a solid plan before they start. Understanding the audience, setting clear goals and crafting a strategy are all critical to making a podcast stand out. Starting with a pilot episode can help test concepts and refine the format. He emphasises the importance of focusing on entertaining and serving the audience, rather than just promoting the brand.
Michael’s Thoughts on Parental Leave
Michael shares his experience with an exceptional parental leave policy, which allowed him six months off for both of his children. He reflects on how the policy supported his family, strengthened his parenting partnership and fostered loyalty to his employer. He believes businesses should recognise the transformative impact of parental leave on employees andfamilies.
Key Takeaway
“Put thought into your podcast. Don’t just hit record—build a plan, define your goals and focus on creating content that truly entertains and engages your audience.”
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Don’t miss an episode of Marketing vs. The World. Subscribe now and join us every other Monday for insightful discussions and practical marketing tips.
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Share this episode with colleagues and friends and let us know your thoughts on podcasting andfamily-friendly workplace policies. See you next time for more marketing inspiration!
Marketing Vs The World is produced by Urban Podcasts.
In this episode of Marketing vs The World, host Abbie Dando chats with Paulo Andraus, tech SEO expert and creator of the SEO Game Show. Together, they dive into the importance of technical SEO and share actionable tips for businesses. They also explore Paulo’s experiences as an immigrant in the workplace.
Paulo Andraus’ Background and the SEO Game Show
What Is Technical SEO?
Why Technical SEO Matters
Common Challenges Without Technical SEO
Who Should Own Technical SEO?
Small businesses (1-10 employees):
Medium businesses (11-50 employees):
Large organisations (50+ employees):
Impact of AI on Technical SEO
Schema Markup: Is It Necessary?
Getting Started with Technical SEO
Paulo’s Personal Journey
Key Takeaway
“Tech SEO can be creative. Don’t just follow Google blindly—find innovative solutions to your site’s problems. Being creative with tech SEO can lead to unique, impactful results.”
Subscribe & Connect
Don’t miss an episode of Marketing vs The World. Subscribe now and join us every other Monday for insightful discussions and practical marketing tips.
Marketing Vs The World is produced by Urban Podcasts.
In this episode of Marketing vs The World, host Abbie Dando chats with Gareth Dunlop, a seasoned UX expert and entrepreneur, about the critical balance between desirability and usability in user experience design. Gareth shares practical insights on designing digital products that create desire while ensuring ease of use, alongside his experience of building and selling two successful marketing agencies.
In this episode, Abbie and Gareth discuss:
Gareth Dunlop’s Background
Transition from a computer programmer at a major Irish bank to a UX pioneer.
Growing and selling two marketing agencies, including the challenges and rewards of these ventures.
His shift from leading teams to working independently as a consultant.
What Is User Experience (UX)?
Definition: How a user feels when interacting with a product or service.
The holistic approach to creating digital experiences that influence user behaviour.
Examples of good and bad UX in everyday apps and websites.
Why UX Matters More Than Ever
The evolution of UX as a discipline since the early 2000s.
COVID-19’s role in accelerating businesses’ focus on digital experiences.
Why organisations need to shift from monologue-style marketing to user-driven dialogues.
Designing Great UX: Desirability vs Usability
Desirability: Creating want through emotional connection and brand perception.
Usability: Making it easy for users to achieve their goals.
Examples of high-desirability brands like Taylor Swift and Apple, and their strategies for balancing desirability with convenience.
Why focusing solely on usability can limit the emotional pull of your product.
Measuring UX and Building a Business Case
How to benchmark your current website or app performance using tools like Google Analytics and Hotjar.
The importance of qualitative research to complement data insights.
Building a case for UX investment by showing potential business gains and the cost of poor user experiences.
Lessons in Growing and Selling Agencies
Preparing for Sale: Gareth’s focus on running his businesses professionally, keeping operations clean, and being ready for acquisition opportunities.
Navigating a Sale: Insights from selling his first agency and proactively seeking buyers for his second.
Post-Acquisition Challenges: The importance of integrating cultures, processes, and tech stacks after a sale.
Key Takeaways From This Episode
For UX Success:
Desirability and Usability Work Together: Create desire while ensuring simplicity to achieve the best user outcomes.
Start Small: Use affordable tools like Hotjar and surveys to gather insights, even on a tight budget.
Put Users First: Focus on solving user needs and behaviours, not just achieving business objectives.
For Entrepreneurs:
Run Clean Operations: Keep your business professional and transparent to attract potential buyers.
Stay Ready: Treat every day as preparation for a possible acquisition, even if you’re not actively seeking one.
Take Your Time: Wait for the right opportunity to sell, but ensure your business is always in great shape.
What You’ll Get From This Episode
This episode offers valuable insights into the psychology of user experience, tips for improving digital products, and actionable advice for entrepreneurs considering selling their business.
Subscribe & Connect
Don’t miss an episode of Marketing vs The World! Subscribe now and join us every other Monday for more engaging conversations and marketing strategies.
Marketing Vs The World is produced by Urban Podcasts.
In this episode of Marketing vs The World, Abbie sits down with Nick Houchin, Marketing Director at Musto, to explore the art of safeguarding an iconic heritage brand. They discuss Musto’s remarkable 60-year journey, its innovative product development, and the importance of staying true to the brand’s DNA amidst modern marketing challenges. Nick also opens up about his sailing roots, the joys and pressures of his role, and the strategies he uses to balance professional and personal life effectively.
Whether you're a marketing professional, a fan of iconic brands, or just looking for inspiration on balancing a demanding career with family life, this episode is packed with insights and actionable takeaways.
What you'll learn in this episode:
Musto’s Heritage and Innovation:
The origin story of Musto, founded by Olympic sailor Keith Musto in 1964.
How the brand’s ethos of protection and performance has led to industry-leading product innovation.
The journey from creating technical sailing gear to expanding into the outdoor and country lifestyle markets.
Safeguarding an Iconic Brand:
Nick’s role in protecting Musto’s heritage while planning for the future.
The balance between taking risks and staying true to the brand’s DNA.
The challenges of navigating new marketing trends without compromising brand identity.
Building Strong Relationships with Influencers:
Musto’s long-standing partnership with Zara Tindall and its impact on brand credibility.
How Musto nurtures long-term relationships with ambassadors who embody the brand’s values.
The importance of integrating feedback from ambassadors into product development.
Sustainability in the Retail World:
How Musto tackles the challenges of creating durable, sustainable products in a competitive retail market.
Musto’s repair services and commitment to extending product life to reduce environmental impact.
The role of recycled fabrics and science-based targets in driving sustainable innovation.
Balancing Work and Personal Life:
Nick’s tips for mastering the art of being present at work and home.
The conscious decisions he’s made to separate work and personal life, including his no-phone-in-the-bedroom rule.
The power of small routines, like reading before bed and exercising, to maintain mental clarity and balance.
Key Takeaways:
Stay True to Your Brand: Always anchor your decisions in the brand’s core values and history. Without a strong foundation, chasing trends can lead to dilution of the brand identity.
Build Long-Term Relationships: Invest in nurturing relationships with ambassadors and influencers who align with your brand values, rather than constantly seeking new faces.
Sustainability Matters: Durability, repairability, and sustainable materials aren’t just good for the planet—they’re essential for building trust with today’s consumers.
Be Present and Intentional: Balance work and life by creating boundaries, developing routines, and recognising what energises or drains you.
Connect with Musto and Marketing vs The World:
Marketing Vs The World is produced by Urban Podcasts.
In this episode of Marketing vs The World, Abbie Dando sits down with Natasha Hill, Managing Director and Co-owner of Bottle, to explore how PR can influence every stage of the funnel—not just brand awareness. They delve into the evolving landscape of digital PR, its impact on SEO, and how to integrate it across marketing strategies. On a more personal note, Natasha shares her experiences pushing herself outside of her comfort zone, both professionally and personally, and why it’s important to keep growing. Listen in for insightful strategies on PR, and tips on how to challenge yourself in both work and life.
In this episode, Abbie and Natasha discuss:
Natasha Hill’s Career Journey
Natasha’s path from working at a large agency in direct marketing to becoming the Managing Director of Bottle.
How she transitioned from in-house marketing roles to co-owning a digital PR agency.
The challenges and triumphs of completing a management buyout just before the pandemic.
Demystifying PR: Traditional vs Digital PR
What PR really means and the difference between traditional and digital PR.
Digital PR for SEO: Why PR isn’t just about brand awareness, but also plays a crucial role in driving organic traffic and search engine rankings.
How forward-thinking brands like Gusto and AXA Healthcare are using PR for both fame-building and SEO.
PR’s Role Throughout the Marketing Funnel
Fame, Findability, and Fulfilment: How PR influences every part of the funnel from brand awareness at the top to driving conversions at the bottom.
Fame-building campaigns vs. findability efforts: How campaigns are designed to boost brand visibility and improve SEO rankings through strategic media placements and backlinks.
Examples of how Bottle uses PR to create integrated strategies for clients, with the AXA Healthcare "Sleep Hub" campaign as a case study.
Evolving Trends in PR and Search
The rise of TikTok as a search platform and its implications for brands.
How to leverage TikTok insights for PR, even in sectors like B2B.
Why Google isn’t dead and how search continues to evolve alongside new platforms.
Stepping Outside Your Comfort Zone
Natasha’s personal journey of joining a hockey club despite having no experience and how it helped her form new connections and build confidence.
Her ongoing quest to reignite her creative side through painting, and the challenges that come with stepping into new hobbies later in life.
The importance of continuing to learn and grow, even when life feels more settled.
Key Takeaways From This Episode
PR is more than just media coverage: It’s a strategic tool that can drive traffic, build authority, and influence all parts of the marketing funnel.
Digital PR matters: Don’t overlook the impact PR can have on your brand’s SEO, particularly through strategic backlinks and well-placed media stories.
Push yourself personally as well as professionally: Whether it’s joining a new sports team, picking up an old hobby, or even solo travel, stepping outside your comfort zone helps you grow.
Integrated marketing is key: For the best results, ensure PR, SEO, and social strategies are working together.
What You’ll Get From This Episode
This episode will help you better understand the value of PR in both traditional and digital landscapes, particularly how it integrates with SEO to impact your brand’s overall visibility and authority. Natasha’s personal stories will also inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and take on new challenges, both professionally and personally.
Subscribe & Connect:
Stay updated with Marketing vs The World. Don’t forget to subscribe and tune in every other Monday for more expert marketing insights.
Make sure you follow us on social media too:
Share Your Thoughts
We’d love to hear your feedback! Share this episode with colleagues and friends, and let us know your thoughts on storytelling and remote work in the comments.
Tune in next time for more inspiration and education from marketing experts around the world!
Marketing Vs The World is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.
In this episode of Marketing vs The World, host Abbie Dando sits down with Ash Pollak, founder of Teodophobes, to explore the art of storytelling in marketing. Ash explains why brands, particularly in B2B, must move away from traditional advertising and instead focus on entertaining their customers to build authentic connections. Ash also shares his insights on living and working remotely in Ibiza and the importance of community in both business and life.
In this episode, Abbie and Ash discuss:
Ash Pollak’s Background
Ash’s career journey from running a production company to founding Teodophobes.
His pivot from the creative world to startups during COVID, and how this experience shaped his storytelling expertise.
Why Storytelling Matters
The human instinct for storytelling and why it’s crucial for modern marketing.
B2B’s missed opportunity: Why B2B companies are competing with entertainment, not just other brands, and how they can stand out by focusing on storytelling rather than dry, feature-based messaging.
Entertaining vs. Advertising
The growing distaste for traditional marketing.
The importance of entertainment in connecting with customers on a deeper level, rather than simply bombarding them with ads.
Insights from Liquid Death’s marketing approach: Why no one wants to be "marketed to" anymore.
Bringing Storytelling into Business
How brands can start integrating storytelling into their strategies.
Ash’s approach to problem-solving workshops, involving diverse teams from sales to HR, to identify content opportunities that truly resonate with customers.
The process of creating a customer journey that focuses on building relationships rather than hard selling.
Challenging B2B Norms
How B2B brands can break away from boring, sales-driven campaigns and embrace entertaining cultural content that engages their audience.
Success stories: How sales teams can use storytelling content to engage with hard-to-reach customers and turn cold leads into deals.
Remote Work and Community
Ash’s personal journey of moving from London to Ibiza, and how remote work has changed his business model.
The importance of building a strong community, whether working remotely or in-person, and how this fuels creativity and business growth.
Practical tips for those thinking about making the move abroad and how to balance virtual and in-person work.
Key Takeaways From This Episode
Entertainment is key: Don’t just sell to your customers, engage and entertain them to build lasting relationships.
Human connection: Both customers and colleagues are humans first—embrace their real-world experiences and challenges when creating content and strategies.
Be bold, not reckless: When it comes to marketing, doing the same thing over and over is a bigger risk than trying something new and creative.
Embrace process: Storytelling and creative thinking are part of a process, not a quick fix. Be patient, dig deep, and look at the bigger picture.
What You’ll Get From This Episode
This episode will help you rethink your approach to marketing, especially if you’re in B2B. Ash’s insights on storytelling, community building, and embracing creativity will inspire you to stop selling and start connecting with your audience in a more meaningful way. You’ll also learn practical tips on working remotely, building strong professional relationships, and managing a balanced lifestyle.
Subscribe & Connect:
Stay updated with Marketing vs The World. Don’t forget to subscribe and tune in every other Monday for more expert marketing insights.
Make sure you follow us on social media too:
Share Your Thoughts
We’d love to hear your feedback! Share this episode with colleagues and friends, and let us know your thoughts on storytelling and remote work in the comments.
Tune in next time for more inspiration and education from marketing experts around the world!
Marketing Vs The World is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.
In this episode of Marketing vs The World, host Abbie Dando chats with Fiona Brennan, founder of Indie Essentials, about sustainable content creation and how it can prevent burnout in marketing teams. They also explore Fiona's unique journey from the music industry to content marketing, and how creativity has influenced her approach to business and life.
In this episode, Abbie and Fiona discuss:
Fiona Brennan’s Background
What Is Sustainable Content?
Building a Sustainable Content Strategy
Being Brave with Content
AI and Sustainable Content
Lessons from the Music Industry
Rekindling Creativity in Teams
Key Takeaways From This Episode
What You’ll Get From This Episode
This episode provides practical tips on creating a sustainable content strategy that avoids burnout and makes the most of your team’s time and effort. Fiona also shares her insights on balancing creativity, ethics, and productivity in today’s fast-paced marketing landscape.
Subscribe & Connect:
Don’t miss an episode of Marketing vs The World. Subscribe now and join us every other Monday for more insightful discussions and practical marketing tips.
Make sure you follow us on social media too:
Share Your Thoughts
We’d love to hear your feedback! Share this episode with colleagues and friends, and let us know your thoughts on sustainable content and creativity in the comments.
Tune in next time for more inspiration and education as we discuss the latest trends in marketing and business innovation!
Marketing Vs The World is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.
In this episode of Marketing vs The World, host Abbie Dando is joined by Oliver Thomas, Senior Corporate Affairs Manager at Nomad Foods, to delve into the frozen food industry and discuss Nomad Foods' mission to serve the world better food. They also tackle the challenges of sustainability, the misconceptions surrounding ultra-processed foods, and how to manage a demanding corporate career while raising a young family.
In this episode, Abbie and Oliver discuss:
Oliver Thomas’s Background
Transforming the Frozen Food Industry
Sustainability Initiatives at Nomad Foods
Misconceptions About Ultra-Processed Foods (UPF)
Balancing Career and Parenthood
Mental Health in the Workplace
Key Takeaways From This Episode
What You’ll Get from This Episode
This episode offers an inside look into the frozen food industry’s sustainability efforts, insights into balancing a corporate career with parenthood, and an understanding of the misconceptions around ultra-processed foods. Whether you’re interested in food innovation or looking for tips on work-life balance, this episode has something for everyone.
Subscribe & Connect:
Don’t miss an episode of Marketing vs The World. Subscribe now and join us every other Monday for more insightful discussions and practical marketing tips.
Make sure you follow us on social media too:
Share Your Thoughts
We’d love to hear your feedback! Share this episode with colleagues and friends, and let us know your thoughts on the frozen food industry and balancing work with personal life in the comments.
Tune in next time for more inspiration and education with a very special episode of Marketing vs The World. See you in two weeks!
Marketing Vs The World is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.
Get ready to dive deep into the world of strategic content and redefine what success means to you in this episode of Marketing Versus the World. Host Abbie Dando welcomes Rin Hamburgh, founder of RH & Co., for an insightful and thought-provoking conversation.
Rin shares her expert advice on the importance of interviewing stakeholders and authoritative figures before creating any content. Plus, she opens up about her personal journey and how she's redefining success on her own terms. This episode is packed with valuable takeaways for marketers and entrepreneurs alike.
In this episode, Abbie and Rin discuss:
Rin's Journey:
The Importance of Expert-Led Content
Why Interview Stakeholders:
Expert-Led Content:
The Realities of Content Creation
Balancing Deadlines and Quality:
Success Doesn't Have to Mean Flashy Cars and Big Houses
Redefining Success:
Rin's Journey of Slowing Down:
Key Takeaways From This Episode
Expert-Led Content: Leverage the insights of stakeholders and authoritative figures to create impactful, trustworthy content.
Strategic Planning: Understand the importance of setting clear expectations and efficiently managing content creation timelines.
Personal Success: Redefine success on your terms, focusing on what truly brings you joy and fulfilment.
Work-Life Balance: Embrace opportunities to slow down and enjoy life's simple pleasures without compromising your professional goals.
What you’ll get from this episode
Rin Hamburgh offers invaluable insights into the power of expert-led content and the importance of redefining success. You'll gain practical advice on creating high-quality content, managing deadlines, and finding a balance between work and personal life. This episode encourages you to think critically about traditional success metrics and to embrace a more fulfilling approach to your career and personal goals.
Subscribe & Connect:
Don't miss an episode of Marketing Versus the World. Subscribe now and join us every other Monday for more insightful discussions and practical marketing tips.
Make sure you follow us on social media too:
Marketing Vs The World is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.
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