Stacy Bohrer, Vice President of Buyer Development for OpenX, discusses her career in ad tech and the challenges of scaling operations. She emphasizes the importance of servant leadership and creating a safe and authentic work environment. Stacey also addresses the issue of made-for-advertising sites and how OpenX is addressing inventory quality and pricing transparency. She highlights the shift towards real outcomes and the increase in brands engaging directly with OpenX. Stacey also discusses the importance of forming closer relationships between brands and publishers to improve transparency and support the struggling publishing industry. The conversation primarily revolves around the concept of supply path optimization (SPO) and its benefits for publishers. The main theme is the importance of addressability in the open internet and how SPO can help monetize publishers' inventory. The conversation also touches on the role of alternative IDs, integrating with identity solutions, and the need to detangle supply paths. The potential environmental impact of ad calls and the use of AI in analyzing granular reports are discussed. The conversation concludes with a discussion on entrepreneurship, the value of networks like Chief, and the importance of knowing one's value and saying no when necessary.

This week, my guest is Scott Moore, the Founder and CEO of Covalent Partners. In his illustrious career, he has served as the CMO of Best Buy Mobile and Wynn Resorts, as well as an Advisor for several venture capital firms. We explore the definition of innovation and its importance in business. We also delve into the conditions necessary for companies to innovate in a productive and profitable way. The conversation then shifts to the role of leadership in fostering innovation and the need for outside expertise in certain areas. We touch on the significance of brand-to-brand collaborations and how they have evolved over time. Finally, we discuss the shift from a tell-centric marketing approach to one that emphasizes co-creation with customers. The conversation explores the importance of innovative strategic partnerships, innovative projects, and cultivating and supporting innovative people. It discusses the need for a balance between optimization and creativity in marketing strategies. The conversation also touches on the challenges of search and discovery in the digital age and the role of branding in today's market.

Jackie "JP" Phillips, owner and CEO of Unheard Media, shares her journey as a self-made entrepreneur and the importance of mentorship. She emphasizes the need to stop and help others, as it can lead to valuable connections and opportunities. JP discusses the mindset of an entrepreneur, including the ability to handle rejection and overcome fear. She highlights the importance of setting boundaries and saying no to opportunities that don't align with your values. JP also emphasizes the significance of financial literacy, emotional intelligence, and group economics in achieving success as an entrepreneur. In this conversation, JP and Ryan discuss the characteristics of businesses and leaders that are pushing forth innovative solutions and those that have an antiquated view on how to get ahead. They highlight the importance of leading with compassion, love, and promoting collaboration within organizations. They also discuss the challenge of identifying authentic leaders who genuinely care about making a positive impact. They emphasize the significance of community in Jackie's business and life, and the role it plays in teaching and mentoring others. They also touch on the need for change in traditional education and the importance of mindset in achieving success. Jackie shares how she has changed her mind about people and the importance of understanding fear and trauma in individuals. Overall, the conversation emphasizes the need for authenticity, compassion, and a growth mindset in business and personal life.

Carrie Kramer, co-founder of FutureProofd, discusses the challenges and key elements of a successful sales function. She emphasizes the importance of leadership setting relevant goals and metrics that align with the marketplace and the needs of the sales team. She also highlights the significance of authenticity in sales, encouraging salespeople to show up as their true selves and build genuine relationships with clients. Additionally, she discusses the role of automation and AI in sales, suggesting that salespeople should leverage technology to streamline administrative tasks while still maintaining a personal touch. Finally, she emphasizes the importance of collaboration between marketing and sales to create a cohesive story and deliver value to clients.