We Built This Brand

Jonathan Halley didn't set out with a master plan to build one of East Tennessee's most recognized creative agencies, but a drone, a viral video, and a willingness to say yes changed everything. In this episode of We Built This Brand, Jonathan shares the story behind founding Big Slate Media, growing from a one-person operation into a 30+ person production company and creative agency, and what he's learned about leadership along the way. He opens up about hiring his first employee, learning to

In this episode of We Built This Brand, Chris sits down with Brad Scott, Founder and Principal of Applied Design, to explore how a rebranding project for the Braille Institute led to the creation of Atkinson Hyperlegible, an award-winning typeface designed to improve readability for people with low vision. Brad shares his journey from interior design to leading branding initiatives for organizations like Grand Central Terminal and the World Trade Center, while discussing the principles of univer

In this episode of We Built This Brand, Chris sits down with Mary Walker to talk about the hidden business side of nonprofits. From fundraising strategy and board leadership to navigating crises like COVID and government funding delays, Mary shares practical lessons on building sustainable organizations that can truly make an impact. Plus, hear the incredible story behind her family’s century-old Knoxville automotive business and how it inspired Leafspring. Show Highlights: (01:47) Marys Career

What happens when brands give up control and trust the story? In this episode of We Built This Brand, Kirstin Falk of Breakwater Studios shares how award-winning, human-centered films are created without scripts, why uncertainty is the new normal for brands, and how powerful storytelling can build real emotional connection. From working with global brands like L’Oréal and McDonald’s to winning Academy Awards, this conversation explores the intersection of creativity, strategy, and authenticity i

Andrew Parrott, founder of Logic Marketing and partner at Brainchild Creative, shares a raw and powerful story of addiction, recovery, and redemption, and how those experiences shaped his approach to business and branding. From homelessness and a near-fatal past to building a multi-faceted marketing and experiential agency, Andrew dives into authenticity, risk-taking, and why your scars might be your greatest asset. This episode is a deep, honest look at what it really means to build something t

What does it take to reinvent a 100-year-old brand? In this episode or We Built This Brand, Diana “DQ” Quinmoen, Head of Design at Colle McVoy, shares how her team helped La-Z-Boy rediscover its soul and transform from a furniture brand into a full sensory experience. From brand scent and store experience to AI-powered activations and the “ah-place” philosophy, this conversation explores how modern brands must think beyond campaigns and build systems that connect emotionally at every touchpoint.