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Ben Kaplan and TOP Thought Leader
Explore the latest business and brand headlines with insight from the world’s leading experts in marketing, advertising, economics, and finance.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 10, 2023 • 49min
EP 47: Elina Vilk, Hootsuite- 'Elements of Marketing'
Unlock the Secrets of Marketing Mastery with Elina Vilk, CMO of Hootsuite, on TOP CMO. Dive into a riveting conversation exploring the four elemental 'C's of marketing success. Discover how Elina's diverse experience across major brands like PayPal, Facebook, and WooCommerce has shaped her unique perspective. Learn practical strategies for thriving in the dynamic world of marketing, and gain insights into making every marketing dollar count. Whether you're a budding marketer or a seasoned pro, this episode is packed with valuable lessons and engaging stories. Tune in to elevate your marketing game!

Nov 3, 2023 • 43min
EP 46: Shane Murphy-Reuter, Webflow - 'Empower, Lead, Innovate'
In this episode of TOP CMO, join us as we delve into the world of strategic marketing leadership with Shane Murphy-Reuter, CMO of Webflow. We explore Shane's extensive experience across the technology sector, where he has shaped the marketing functions of major companies, turning innovative visions into reality. From his pivotal role in customer acquisition at Paddy Power Betfair to spearheading marketing efforts and driving growth at Intercom and ZoomInfo, Shane has a wealth of knowledge on building brands and leading teams to success. As a Limited Partner at Stage 2 Capital and an advisor to Sendoso, he shares unique insights into the investment landscape for sales and marketing technologies. This episode is a must-listen for those looking to harness the power of marketing to transform business communication, empower creative teams, and lead with accountability in the fast-paced digital world. Get ready to be inspired by a leader who's not only revolutionizing the 'create for the web' space but also fostering impactful, fulfilling careers along the way.

Oct 20, 2023 • 36min
EP 45: Norman Guadagno, Mimecast - 'The Boo-Boo Theory of Risk'
Are you fascinated by the ever-changing landscape of cybersecurity? Curious about what it takes to manage risk in a digital world? This episode is right up your alley!Today we sit down with Norman Guadagno, the CMO of Mimecast, a company dedicated to transforming email and collaboration security for over 40,000 organizations. With a career spanning multiple sectors and roles, from being the founding member of CMO Huddles to serving as the first CMO at Acoustic, Norman has insights that you won't want to miss.What's Inside: How Mimecast is changing the game in email and cybersecurity. Norman's own career journey and the versatile roles he's mastered. What it takes to build an effective marketing organization in the tech sector.Bonus: Norman's unique "Boo-Boo Theory of Risk" unveiled!Why You Should Listen: Get an insider's look into the cybersecurity industry from a seasoned CMO. Understand the complexities of balancing risk and innovation. Discover actionable strategies for your own digital risk management.Tune in to unlock these insights and more, as we unravel the intricate web of cybersecurity, marketing, and leadership. Don't forget to bring your notepad; this episode is packed with value!

Oct 13, 2023 • 40min
EP 44: Jill Cress, H&R Block - 'Trust, Taxes & Transformation'
In this episode of TOP CMO, we're joined by Jill Cress, a seasoned marketing strategist with over 30 years of experience. Jill delves into the intricacies of tax marketing, sharing invaluable insights from her journey at H&R Block. From understanding client perspectives to the role of life moments in tax situations, Jill covers it all.Tune in to learn how H&R Block leverages its 70-year legacy to offer peace of mind and maximum refunds, guaranteed. Jill also discusses the brand's successful shift from traditional TV to online video, its targeted approach to Gen Z, and its innovative collaborations, like the Spotify tax return playlist.Whether you're a marketer looking to understand audience segmentation or someone curious about the evolving landscape of tax services, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge. Don't miss out on Jill's expert tips on building trust, delivering confidence, and experimenting with new platforms for maximum impact.

Oct 6, 2023 • 35min
EP 43: Chris Koehler, Box - 'Lead, Learn, Evolve'
In this compelling episode, host Ben Kaplan sits down with Chris Koehler, the Chief Marketing Officer at Box Inc., to unpack the secrets behind his customer-centric approach to marketing. Chris shares his unconventional journey to becoming a CMO and how it has informed his strategies for achieving customer success at Box Inc.The conversation takes a deep dive into the transformative power of "raising your hand" in the professional world. Both Chris and Ben advocate for this proactive approach, emphasizing how it can lead to unexpected opportunities and constructive feedback.But that's not all. The episode also explores the challenges and opportunities of integrating AI and security into Box's offerings, as well as the importance of being data-driven in today's uncertain landscape. Chris provides invaluable insights into hiring practices that prioritize cultural fit and adaptability, offering a holistic view of what it takes to succeed in the rapidly evolving role of a CMO.Whether you're an aspiring marketer, an established leader, or simply interested in the intersection of technology, leadership, and marketing, this episode is a treasure trove of insights designed to help you Lead, Adapt, and Grow in your career.

Sep 15, 2023 • 45min
EP 42: Dana Marineau, Rakuten - 'Leading with Optimism'
Today's episode is a masterclass in optimistic leadership and innovative marketing strategies, featuring Dana Marineau, the CMO,North America of Rakuten, —Japan's largest e-commerce company. In a world where 'Rakuten' itself stands for 'optimism,' Dana embodies this ethos in her approach to marketing, team building, and brand evolution. With a career spanning senior roles at Credit Karma, Electronic Arts, and now Rakuten, Dana shares her insights on how to merge meaningful storytelling with measurable results. We dive deep into the culture of trust and feedback she's cultivated, the role of high-profile partnerships in brand building, and the future of marketing in an ever-changing landscape. Whether you're a CMO or a senior marketer, this episode offers valuable lessons in balancing creativity with analytics, all while leading with an optimistic spirit. Tune in and get inspired to bring a new level of optimism to your marketing strategies!#cmo #topcmo #marketing #business #topthoughtleader #rakuten

Sep 1, 2023 • 28min
EP 41: Margo Kahnrose, Skai - 'Future-Proof Ads'
Ben speaks to Margo Kahnrose, CMO of Skai. We dive into the evolution of retail marketing, focusing on the rise of shoppable media and its impact on advertising strategies. Margo also discusses the challenges traditional publishers face due to the loss of third-party cookies and the shift towards walled gardens. Margo shares her insights on how this trend is blurring the lines between top-of-funnel advertising and bottom-funnel calls to action.

Aug 25, 2023 • 46min
EP 40: Amina Pasha, Thrive Market - 'From Giant to Agile'
In this episode of Top CMO, we sit down with Amina Pasha, the CMO of Thrive Market, an innovative American e-commerce platform offering natural and organic food products. Amina's remarkable journey has seen her at the forefront of some of the biggest names in the CPG industry, including The Honest Company and Proctor and Gamble, where she's been instrumental in elevating iconic brands like Pantene, Wella, and Pampers.But what does it take to transition from a corporate giant with over 85,000 employees to a lean, agile team of under 600? How does one adapt the lessons from large-scale operations to succeed in smaller, scrappier environments? Amina shares her insights, experiences, and the wisdom she's gleaned from her diverse career.Join us as we explore the fascinating world of brand-building, leadership, and the art of navigating various company sizes with one of the industry's most inspiring leaders. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an aspiring marketer, Amina's story offers valuable lessons and inspiration for all.

Aug 18, 2023 • 36min
EP 39: Robin Saitz, Rockwell Automation - 'Beyond Product Sales'
In this episode of TOP CMO, we delve deep into the transformative world of marketing within tech-centric organizations. Join us as Robin Saitz, CMO of Rockwell Automation, unveils the challenges and triumphs of narrating a brand's evolution in an engineering-led landscape. Discover the power of storytelling, the significance of integrated campaigns, and the pivotal role of marketers in shaping a company's journey. It's not just about selling a product anymore; it's about crafting a compelling narrative that resonates. Tune in and redefine what you know about tech marketing.#topcmo #rockwellautomation #marketing #leadership #business #cmo #podcasts

Aug 4, 2023 • 35min
EP 38: Raj Vavilala, G.E.H.A - 'Unlocking Growth Together'
In this enlightening episode of the Top CMO podcast, we sit down with Raj Vavilalla, the Chief Sales, Marketing and Product Officer at GEHA Health. With an impressive career spanning roles at top health and insurance companies, Raj brings a wealth of experience and unique insights into the table. In our conversation, we delve into the importance of hyper-collaboration, both within the leadership team and across departments, which Raj sees as a key enabler for growth. We also explore his firm belief in doing the right thing, not just as a moral stance, but as a sustainable business strategy. Raj emphasizes the need to invest in community and brand continually, and shares his vision on making health programs accessible to all, regardless of location. Whether you're a seasoned marketer or just starting your journey, this episode is packed with profound insights that will surely inspire. Don't miss it!#TopCMOPodcast #RajVavilalla #GEHAHealth #HyperCollaboration #Leadership #MarketingInsights #CommunityInvestment #HealthcareAccessibility #SustainableBusiness #EthicalMarketing #GrowthStrategy


