From leaving Germany at 18 to becoming a LinkedIn Thought Leader – How intercultural experiences shape professional storytelling

At just 18, Skylar Steudter left Germany to start a new life in the United States. Today, he is a LinkedIn specialist and storyteller who bridges cultures and continents. In this episode, Steven and Jeff explore how moving between Germany and the U.S. shaped Skylar’s voice, why authenticity looks different across cultures, and what professionals on both sides of the Atlantic can learn from each other.

Simply Human – How Goldstar Balances Reach, Relevance, and Responsibility

In an industry where efficiency often overshadows empathy, Goldstar takes a different path – one where simplicity is a strategy, and people are at the heart of every decision.

In this episode of Branded Wor(l)ds, we sit down with Heather Smartt, Global Head of Goldstar, to discuss how the brand has built global reach without losing its human touch.

From transparent pricing to meaningful sustainability initiatives, Heather shares how Goldstar blends clarity, connection, and care to create lasting impact – proving that in branding, being felt is just as important as being seen.

Global Cooperation, Local Impact – The IPPAG Way

In a world where global networks often prioritize scale over substance, IPPAG offers a different approach: a cooperative model built on long-term trust, transparency, and shared values.

In this episode of Branded Wor(l)ds, we speak with Florence Mosnier and Andre Noordwijk from IPPAG, a global alliance of promotional product companies that redefines what it means to work across borders – and to do so with intention.

Together, we explore how a cooperative structure can foster real innovation, empower local businesses, and drive authentic sustainability in the branded merchandise industry.

Making Noise – How RUPT Is Flipping the Script on an Industry and Getting Noticed

Today’s episode is one of those “damn, we did that” stories.

We’re joined by Jason Lucash who didn’t just enter the promo world — he and his team rewrote the rules.

From startup to PPAI 100 in less than a year, RUPT is flipping the script on what this industry can be — bold, fast, sustainable, and unapologetically cool.

Jason Lucash is here, and he's not just making noise — he and his team is shaping the future of branded merch.

Let’s dive into the dialogue.

Threads Across Oceans – How Vantage and Lynka Stitch Together a Global Apparel Alliance

In this episode of BRANDED WOR(L)DS – A Transatlantic Dialogue, we sit down with two industry leaders: Rob Watson (Vantage Apparel, USA) and John Lynch (Lynka, Poland).

Together, they share the story of a transatlantic partnership built not just on business, but on trust, shared values, and bold leadership. From navigating cultural differences to launching humanitarian initiatives like Corporate Aid for Ukraine, this conversation reveals what it takes to create global impact—one stitch at a time.

Tune in to hear how purpose, people, and partnership shape the future of branded apparel.

Learning to Lead: How GXN and Executive Education Shape the Industry’s Future

What does it take to lead in a transforming industry?

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Georgina Lack, award-winning consultant and lecturer at the University of Bath, and Michael Freter, founder of the global GXN Network and former CEO of PSI. Together, they unveil the GXN Executive Development Programme—a bold initiative designed to empower future leaders through executive education, value-based sales, and international collaboration.

We explore:

• Why “unlearning” is a critical leadership skill

• What mindsets and capabilities tomorrow’s leaders need

• How global networks can drive meaningful transformation

A powerful conversation at the intersection of learning, leadership, and the future of our industry.

Joel Strömberg is Partner and Deputy CEO of the Swedish corporate fashion brand Berkeley. While usually leading operations from Gothenburg, he’s currently on a business trip in New York – right in the heart of one of the world’s most influential fashion and branding capitals. In this episode of Branded Wor(l)ds, we explore the global transformation of corporate fashion, the cultural dynamics behind branded apparel, and why what we wear at work says more about our brand than ever before.

Set in the heart of the Belgian woods at La Hulpe – during the inaugural International Leadership Summit hosted by PPAI and EAC – a new era of conversation has begun: the very first episode of the podcast Branded Wor(l)ds – A Transatlantic Dialogue is now available!

Hosted by Steven Baumgaertner (cyber-Wear) and Jeff Solomon (U.S. brand strategist), the episode features none other than Drew Holmgreen, President & CEO of PPAI. Together, they explore how purpose, innovation, and sustainability are reshaping brands across both sides of the Atlantic—and what this means for the future of the promotional products industry.

Key topics of the episode include:

• What does the future of global brand communication look like?

• How can brands stay culturally authentic across markets?

• Can sustainability become a true driver of innovation?

• And: Why transatlantic collaboration is the key to what comes next.

  This debut episode is more than just a podcast—it’s the launch of a new dialogue platform for decision-makers, thought leaders, and changemakers in our industry.