What do you do when your only proof of work is a haiku—and it actually lands you a job? Jon Manning reflects on his path from actor to award-winning copywriter, the highs and lows of freelance life, and his return to agency work with Brandish. We talk about staying curious, surrendering control (acquiescing—look it up), and what it means to “flex” in this industry. Whether you’re a writer, creative, or just figuring it out as you go, this episode’s got something for you.

What does it take to build a brand that stands for something—and stands the test of time? Kendall Barber, co-founder of Poppy Barley, joins the podcast to share her journey from a marketing career to launching and scaling one of Canada’s most beloved footwear brands.

We dive into Poppy Barley's early days, from the spark of an idea on a trip to Bali to a bold six-month ultimatum that set the business in motion. Kendall opens up about the highs (hitting that first million!) and the hard choices (pivoting from custom footwear to in-stock inventory). Plus, she shares her thoughts on Poppy Barley’s brand longevity, the power of values-driven growth, and the unique challenges—and rewards—of running a company with her sister.

If you're an entrepreneur, a marketer, or just someone who loves a well-crafted brand (or shoe), this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Tune in now!

How do you balance the business side of advertising with the desire to make a real difference in the world? In this episode, we dive into it with Ryan Kelly, Vice President of Communications and Community Partnerships at the Alberta Cancer Foundation. Ryan shares his journey from creative director in top Edmonton agencies to his current role in the non-profit world, where his work directly impacts cancer research and patient support.

We discuss the challenges of aligning personal values with professional work, the transformative power of storytelling and strategy, and the emotional moments that have defined his career—like the riderless bike procession at the Enbridge Tour Alberta for Cancer. Plus, hear the behind-the-scenes story of how Ryan’s team collaborated with the Arkells for a powerful year-end campaign.

Whether you’re a student, a seasoned pro, or just curious about how marketing can drive change, this episode is packed with insights and inspiration. Tune in now and rediscover the good that marketing can do!