Thoughts from the pod
Meaningful: Marketing, Mentoring, Mattering
The Podcast
🚀 Uncover the Power of Purpose: Dive deep into the realm of purpose-driven marketing as we explore strategies that not only boost your brand but also make a positive impact on the world.
🌟 Mentorship Magic: Join me as I share valuable insights from my own experiences and connect with other mentors. We'll provide guidance and knowledge to help you navigate the path for personal growth.
🤝 Make a Difference: We have the power to change lives. Explore ways to create a lasting impact on your community and the world, fostering a deeper sense of purpose.
🔗 Join the Community: We are a community of like-minded individuals who believe in the power of purpose. Connect with fellow entrepreneurs, marketers, and changemakers to support each other and make a lasting difference together.
LIVE MEANINGFULLY | Best Motivational Thoughts | Podcast Season Ender | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 28
We're wrapping up an incredible first season filled with inspiring conversations and valuable insights. In this episode, we reflect on the remarkable guests we've had and the unique perspectives and lessons they've shared. Thank you to all our listeners for your incredible support and engagement throughout this journey. Season 2 kicks off in September, and we have an exciting lineup of guests and topics that will continue to inspire and motivate you. I'm open to hearing your guest recommendations, topic suggestions, and questions you'd like answered on the podcast. We're also looking for sponsors to partner with us in bringing meaningful content to our growing community. Stay tuned, stay inspired, and as always, keep making a meaningful impact in your marketing, mentoring, and mattering. See you in September for Season 2!
How to CREATE A VIRAL AD using HUMOR and HEART | Pride Month Special | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 27
Francis Miranda, an advertising veteran and CEO of Tagline 360, shares his meaningful life story and journey in the advertising industry. Growing up in a conservative Catholic family in the Philippines, Francis initially struggled with internalized homophobia. However, he eventually came out and embraced his true self. He fell in love with advertising because it allowed him to empathize with customers and tell creative stories that solve their problems. Francis advises aspiring advertising professionals to understand the purpose driving them, develop empathy, and find unique ways to tell stories. He shares his journey into improv comedy and how it has influenced his storytelling and creativity. He also discusses how he applies humor in advertising, using unconventional and irreverent approaches to stand out - that can result to viral ads!
TRANSGENDER Leader BUILDS INCLUSIVE and EMPOWERED Workplaces Through DEIB | PRIDE Month Special | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 26
Kristy Lilas has been dedicated to a career of driving change through education, believing firmly in the power of learning not just from what's on a page, but from each other and the world around us. Kristy’s journey has included various roles in strategy and operations at global education companies, leading teams in designing and executing cross-functional organizational, process, and technology transformations. Currently, Kristy serves as the Head of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) at GoDaddy. Here, Kristy develops and executes the global DEIB vision and strategy, and integrating these priorities into day-to-day business processes.
HOW can TEACHERS and SCHOOLS talk about PRIDE MONTH | Pride Month Special | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 25
David Harris, a proud native of the Chicago area, was raised in the city's southern suburbs and later earned his B.S. in Business Administration from the University of Illinois at Urbana. His academic journey continued with a fellowship in the African American Studies Department at Syracuse University, culminating in an M.A. in International Relations with a focus on Latin America. Furthering his education, David pursued postgraduate studies in education at DePaul University. With three decades of teaching experience spanning public, charter, and private schools, David is a seasoned educator deeply committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. His contributions extend beyond the classroom, with active involvement in various education boards and committees, including the Independent Schools Association of the Central States Board of Trustees and its Equity Board.
WHY PRIDE month inspires GAY ASIAN AMERICANS | PRIDE Month Special | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 24
Harris Zhao, an R&D engineer turned social impact executive, shares his meaningful life story as a queer son of Chinese immigrants. He's currently serving as President for National Association of Asian American Professionals (NAAAP) Boston and Chief Strategy Officer for Get Konnected. He discusses his journey from growing up in poverty to pursuing a financially stable career in pharmaceutical sciences. The pandemic and the loss of his grandmother prompted him to become more aware of his own work and identity, leading him to take on leadership roles in the National Association of Asian American Professionals and LGBTQ+ communities.
WHY his DAD said SORRY to this AWARD WINNING ASIAN AMERICAN executive | AAPI Month Special | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 23
Shane Santiago, President and Chief Experience Officer of Bravely, shares his meaningful life story and his journey in the world of advertising and entrepreneurship. He discusses the challenges he faced as an Asian American in the industry and the importance of representation and diversity. Shane emphasizes the need for brands to embrace bravery and humanity in their marketing approach, and how AI and technology can enhance creativity. He also highlights the value of having a diverse and inclusive team and the importance of finding meaning in both personal and professional life.
Korean ADOPTEE REUNITES with IDENTICAL TWIN and THRIVES as an ASIAN AMERICAN Musician | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 22
10 years after meeting his biological family including and identical twin brother in Korea, Dan Matthews is now a thriving musician and head of partnerships and creative producer at Transparent Arts. In this episode, he shares his journey as a Korean adoptee and his passion for advertising, marketing, and music. He discusses his work with International Secret Agents and the Asian American community, producing content and music that resonates with others.
End RACISM through EDUCATION and KINDNESS | AAPI Month Special | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 21
Our guest in this episode is Jayeel Cornelio, Professor of Development Studies at the Ateneo de Manila University, where he holds the Faura Research Foundation Professorial Chair. Currently based as Visiting Professor at the Center for Asian Democracy at the University of Louisville. His scholarly work revolves around the areas of religious change, religion and public life, and the sociology of generations. He authored 6 books, published countless journals and papers and is currently co-running two projects funded by the British Academy.
How ASIAN AMERICAN WOMEN claim their LEADERSHIP | AAPI Month Special | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 20
To kick-off this AAPI Heritage Month special, we are joined by Aravinda (Vinda) Souza, the chief marketing officer at RefAssured, a provider for automated reference checks for staffing agencies. Prior to RefAssured, Vinda held numerous executive brand and industry marketing positions at enterprise staffing and technology companies, including Bullhorn. In addition to her professional leadership roles, Vinda has been active in board work at the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston, Seeding Labs, and the Massachusetts Staffing Association. Way back when, she graduated from Tufts University with a BA in English and French. Indian by origin, she grew up in Saudi Arabia as a "third culture kid" before moving to the U.S. and later falling in love as a study-abroad student with France.
How an ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIVIST became USA's first MISS EARTH | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 19
Join us in wrapping up Earth Month this April with a special episode featuring Lindsey Coffey, American environmental activist, fashion model, and Miss Earth 2020. Now leading as the Head of Community Engagement and Impact Awareness at EcoBranders, Lindsey continues her vital work in promoting sustainable development. In this insightful discussion, she shares her experiences and strategies for fostering mindful action and environmental awareness across various industries. Don't miss out on the insights and inspiration from a true eco-warrior—tune in now!
How to turn PURPOSE and doing GOOD to PROFITS | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 18
In this podcast episode, Joseph Alcantara interviews Chase Friedman, Founder and CEO of Vanquish Media Group, and they unearth the myth that purpose-driven and "doing good" marketing isn't profitable. Chase shares his journey from being fascinated with storytelling to becoming a brand marketing leader. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in branding and marketing, as it helps businesses connect with their audience on a deeper level. Chase believes that purpose-driven organizations have a strategic advantage as exemplified by his agency's mantra, "do good and do well".
How an ABANDONED KOREAN BABY created the BEAUTY BRAND you LOVE | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 17
In this episode, Joseph Alcantara interviews Jennifer Norman, a beauty entrepreneur and founder of Humanist Beauty and the Human Beauty Movement. Jennifer shares her personal journey as a Korean-American adoptee and how it has shaped her perspective on beauty and compassion. She emphasizes the importance of authenticity, gratitude, and self-expression in the beauty industry. Jennifer also discusses the need for a shift in marketing from fear-based tactics to promoting wellness and empowerment. She encourages young people to choose happiness and live a meaningful life by embracing positivity and making deliberate choices.
The 2024 TOTAL SOLAR ECLIPSE: A Case of CULTURAL MOMENT MARKETING | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 16
What's the huge buzz around the total solar eclipse and how did brands leverage the cultural moment in successfully staging their marketing campaigns? In this podcast episode, I'll discuss the concept of cultural moment marketing and provide tips and strategies for marketers. I'll outline 10 must-do steps for planning and implementing a cultural moment marketing initiative, including research, strategic planning, creative development, cross-channel integration, partnerships and collaborations, engagement and activation, legal and ethical considerations, monitoring and adaptation, evaluation and learning, and legacy and continuity.
How to OVERCOME DISCRIMINATION, RACISM and PREJUDICE | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 15
Today's episode is about racism, discrimination, and prejudice, and how we, as citizens of the world can be part of the solution so we can put an end to this very pressing social justice issue. I'll bring you to one of the speaking engagements that I've done very recently at Boston University through SpeakOut Boston. This podcast will showcase some snippets to that whole program that will allow you to listen to my personal views and stories as I interact with the audience comprised of college students trying to understand the important issues within the LGBTQ+ community and various intersectionalities.
How to SPEAK and LEAD with CLARITY | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 14
I am joined by Dr. Michael Gerharz, an author and C-Suite advisor from Cologne, Germany. He’s the author of “The Aha-Effect” and the “Leaders Light the Path” manifesto. His blog on “The Art of Communicating” has more than 900 published posts and he’s the host of the “Irresistible Communication“ podcast.
How a TRANSGENDER man WINS through DIVERSITY | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 13
Today, I am joined by Trevor Boylston, Supplier Diversity Manager for Boston Scientific. In his role, he focuses on being a trusted advisor to both his internal stakeholders and the small and diverse business community. Trevor is a transgender man who regularly volunteers with LGBTQ+ organizations in his local community. He enjoys the sport of curling, and spending time with his wife & daughter. In this episode, we'll talk about the importance of diversity in business and its direct impact on workforce productivity.
WHY use AI in today's BUSINESS | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 12
Today, I am joined by Chris Troka, a creative entrepreneur with more than 10 years of experience in creating, improving, and accelerating businesses. He founded Focused-Biz, a digital service provider specializing in website, marketing and technology solutions that leverage AI, automation, CRM, and social media to build relationships and generate leads. He also runs a successful wedding DJ and photo booth service that has won multiple awards from The Knot. In this episode, we'll talk about the importance of AI and technology adoption in digitizing and future-proofing start ups.
How SOCIAL MEDIA can power SOCIAL CHANGE | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 11
Today, I am joined by Daniel Francavilla, a founder, agency partner, brand strategist, college educator, and a recipient of Canada's "40 Under 40" award. He has spoken at a variety of events, conferences, and workshops within the Toronto startup scene and local non-profit sector. He also teaches at Seneca within the School of Marketing and Media at Humber College within Continuous Professional Learning. In 2023, he launched The Good Growth Company to empower organizations drive social change, offering training and advising that fosters growth while embodying inclusivity, diversity, and social responsibility. In this episode, get a glimpse of how he uses his passion and momentum to live a purposeful life fueled by his advocacy in making a meaningful impact everyday.
How SURROGACY works for FAMILY BUILDING | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 10
Today, I am joined by Kristin Marsoli, a seasoned writer, marketer, and creative leader with more than two decades of experience building and voicing brands across all platforms. She is currently the Marketing Director at Circle Surrogacy, and she and her husband are parents through surrogacy. In this episode, we get a glimpse of how Kristin infuses her professional and personal experience into marketing to intended parents, surrogates, and egg donors.
Oprah & Arthur Brooks: Build the Life You Want | IN MY OWN WORDS | Episode 9
Sharing my book review and top 10 takeaways for "Build the Life You Want - The Art and Science of Getting Happier" by Oprah Winfrey and Arthur Brooks.
How to be SUCCESSFUL using IQ x EQ x FQ | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 8
Today, I am joined by Faris Aranki, the CEO of Shiageto, a business consulting firm blending strategy and emotional intelligence. Having spent over 20 years delivering strategic change for various businesses around the world, Faris has experienced first-hand the fine differences between success and failure. He came to realize that often what hinders institutions from achieving their goals isn’t the quality of their ideas; it’s their ability to engage effectively with others at all levels and remove barriers in their way; aspects he is an expert in. In this episode, we get a glimpse of how Faris uses the principles of IQ x EQ x FQ to achieve success in business and in life.
How to PIVOT from FITNESS COACH to LINKEDIN EXPERT | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 7
Today, I am joined by internationally acclaimed and award-winning LinkedIn expert, online marketer, best selling author, top podcaster and international speaker, Scott Aaron. With a diverse 25-year background in wellness, sales, business, and personal coaching, he had to overcome a lot in his career from his father's 3-year incarceration at a young age, to being married and divorced twice, and having to file for personal bankruptcy to truly live life on his terms. In this episode, we get a glimpse of how he uses his experiences, lessons and vision to help others find theirs.
How a MOTHER advocates for diversity, equity and INCLUSIVITY | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 6
Today, I am joined by Kat Richards, a mother and systems thinker with a passion for collaboration between business strategy, technology, and CX. The Associate Director of Experience Strategy at Digitas, she creates human-centered solutions that challenge the status quo and inequities through inclusive thinking. She also offers mentorship internationally to marginalized groups and first and second generation immigrants trying to break into the UX/CX and product spaces via adplist.org. In this episode, we get a glimpse of how she uses her interests to live a purposeful life fueled by her advocacy to keep marginalized groups top of mind when creating marketing solutions.
How a QUEER UNPAID INTERN became a BRAND DIRECTOR | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 5
Today, I am joined by JJ Nelson, a veteran communications professional with over 20 years of experience working with brands across a variety of industries to help tell their unique stories authentically, boldly, and strategically. Currently the Director of Brand Communications at Bergmeyer, he oversees the company’s communications strategy including branding, content, and public relations across all channels, and works collaboratively with the executive leadership and design teams in the Boston, LA, and Columbus offices. A proud member and advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, he serves as a member of the Board of Directors for SpeakOUT Boston, the oldest LGBTQ+ Speakers Bureau in the country. In this episode, we get a glimpse of a trailblazer's journey who did not let anything get in the way of his dreams. Prepare to be inspired, motivated and enlightened.
How a FILIPINO NURSE made it to HARVARD and became an EDUCATOR | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 4
Today, I am joined by Arnold Tariga, an internationally educated nurse with more than 15 years of professional experience in various clinical and educational settings in the Philippines, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States. He holds a PhD in Development Education, two Masters’ in Nursing, a Bachelor of Science in Nursing, and a post-graduate certificate in Training to Teach in Medicine from Harvard Medical School. Currently, the Director of Clinical Education and Development at InsightGlobal Health, where he is responsible for leading the development and implementation of an international transition to practice program for internationally educated nurses migrating to the United States. In this episode, we get a glimpse of how he inspires, empowers and makes a difference by paving the way for nurses to achieve their dreams on a global scale.
How to be a FILMMAKER | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 3
Today, I am joined by Melissa Dowler, a filmmaker, digital video director, and founder of award-winning production company Long Haul Films and creative studio Be Here Now. Previous and current collaborators include the Mozilla Corporation, TikTok, Virgin Hyperloop, Thomson Reuters, TD Garden, Northeastern University, Sephora, and UPPAbaby. Her work has received millions of views online; been shortlisted by the Webbys; and been featured on BBC News, NPR and The Today Show. As an independent filmmaker, her debut feature documentary, "Adele and Everything After", was released in 2018 by Gravitas Ventures and is featured on Amazon Prime, Apple TV, and Peacock TV. The film, which tells the emotional story of a woman with an untreatable heart condition and the service dog who saves her life, premiered at the prestigious Cleveland International Film Festival and went on to garner multiple awards at film festivals across North America. In this episode, we get a glimpse of how she succeeded in making her dream of becoming a film director come to life despite the odds and life's twists and turns.
How to be a CREATIVE LEADER | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 2
Today, I am joined by Bernice Chao, an accomplished integrated creative leader, who dedicated her career to elevating brands through innovative storytelling and realizing non-traditional concepts. Her portfolio boasts collaborations with industry giants like Google, HBO, and Amazon. A fervent advocate and thought leader in the Asian and Pacific Islander community, she co-founded the global non-profit organization Asians in Advertising, which fosters opportunities through scholarships, mentorship, and engaging events. She also co-authored the bestseller and received awards for the book, "The Visibility Mindset: How Asian Leaders Create Opportunities and Push Past Boundaries." Her passion for community engagement is exemplified by her role as the President of TEDxCulverCity, where she orchestrated ten sold-out events. A recognized authority in her field, with features in prestigious publications such as Forbes, Adweek, Nightline, AdAge, and The Muse, her expertise has led her to deliver over 100 compelling talks at renowned conferences and events, including South by Southwest, World Bank, and Fortune 500 corporations.
How a child with SPECIAL NEEDS became an INVENTOR | “Meaningful” Podcast Episode 1
Today, I am joined by Brian Wholehan, the inventor and owner of EZ Shade, a clip on light cover for exposed bulbs now sold in 46 countries. From Toledo, Ohio, he grew up as a child with special needs. This inspired him to start a career as a Special Education teacher, which also allowed him to travel the world. He worked in 5 different countries building special needs programs. When he moved to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates, that is where he came up with the idea for EZ Shade as a side hustle. In this episode, we get a glimpse of how he navigated the challenging journey, reached entrepreneurial success and lived a meaningful life. This episode will leave you with a profound inspiration to live curious, achieve dreams and make a difference for others.
