Get the Pinterest Experiential Brand Principles here: Pinterest Playbook

In this episode, Mandy Balak sits down with Sean Doyle, Director of Global Brand Experiences and Group Creative Director of Experiential at Pinterest, the “positive corner of the Internet.” They unpack how Pinterest uses real-world experiences to build brand belief, stand out from the “blandemic” of sameness, and turn online inspiration into offline action.

From Cannes to Coachella to Davos, Sean shares the experiential principles that guide Pinterest’s most iconic work, how Gen Z is reshaping the experience economy, and why brands can’t afford to ignore IRL connection.

Whether you’re a CMO, founder, or creative leader, this conversation will help you rethink how your brand shows up in the real world—and how to design experiences your customers will never forget.

Links & Resources:

• Pinterest Experiential Principles 

• Pinterest Predicts: annual trends report

• The Gathering Festival

• Montana Experiential Brand Retreat (limited seats)

Connect with Sean & Pinterest:

• Sean Doyle on LinkedIn

Connect with Mandy Balak:

• Mandy Balak on LinkedIn

If this episode sparked ideas for your brand, share it with your team and bring the Pinterest principles into your next creative meeting.

Want to experience this in person?

The Gathering brings together senior brand leaders who are building brands that last. If you lead a brand that invests in trust, culture, and transformation, this is your community.

🎟️ Join us in Banff, October 21-24, 2026

   Premium experience for senior marketers and founders

   → thegatheringfestival.com/tickets

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   Brand retreats, Experience Labs, and Events

   → Book a discovery call: thegatheringfestival.com/contact

🎧 More resources

   → Subscribe to The Gathering Podcast on  Spotify or Apple Podcasts

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