We Built This Brand

We Built This Brand

We Built This Brand explores the origins, evolution, and impact of brands through conversations with entrepreneurs, CEOs, and marketing experts.

Creativity, Data, and the Fight for Better Advertising with FIG
We Built This Brand
Creativity, Data, and the Fight for Better Advertising with FIG

Recent Episodes

72
Aug. 26, 2026

Creativity, Data, and the Fight for Better Advertising with FIG

On this episode of We Built This Brand, Chris sits down with FIG founder Mark Figliulo and Chief Strategy Officer Amber Higgins to talk about the intersection of creativity, data, and storytelling. They break down Fig’s StoryData platform, how data can help creatives make stronger decisions, and why effectiveness matters more than simply making creative production faster or cheaper. They also go behind the scenes of FIG’s work with Publix, including the “Make Things Special” strategy and campai
71
Aug. 13, 2026

Burnout Isn't About Working Too Hard: Building Better Leaders with Naomi Asher

What if burnout has less to do with long hours and more to do with misalignment? In this episode of We Built This Brand, Chris sits down with Naomi Asher, founder of The Maven Consulting, leadership consultant, speaker, and author, to unpack the real causes of burnout and why so many organizations are missing the warning signs. Naomi shares her journey from nonprofit executive to entrepreneur, explains how values alignment, conflict, and leadership development impact organizational health, an
70
July 29, 2026

"Real Men of Genius" to AI: Bob Winter on the Future of Creative Branding

Bob Winter, Chief Creative Officer at Supergood and creator of Bud Light's legendary Real Men of Genius campaign, joins Chris on this episode of We Built This Brand to explore how AI is reshaping the creative industry. From building award-winning campaigns to leading an AI-native agency, Bob explains why human creativity remains the driving force behind great brands, and how marketers can embrace AI without losing what makes their work original. Show Highlights: (00:00) Human Plus AI Creativity
69
July 15, 2026

Building Bold Brands: How Jonathan Halley Turned Big Slate Media into a Creative Powerhouse

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
68
July 1, 2026

Great Design Removes Barriers With Brad Scott

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
67
May 27, 2026

Boards, Burnout & Building Sustainable Nonprofits with Mary Walker

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

Reviews

A wonderful look into branding and marketing

"I’m so excited to follow this show! After only the first episode, I could tell that this is going to be a deep dive into how businesses market their services and products. This podcast is filled with…"

Pat McAndrew | April 13, 2023

Great behind the scenes look at some really cool businesses

"I love the intimate look behind some of the coolest brands/business out there. Conversations like these bring out stories that you just can’t find anywhere else. Every episode is the kind of conversa…"

guitar kid | June 19, 2026