Brendan McDowell is the founder of BPerfect Cosmetics and Voduz Hair. He’s built two amazing brands (from a background in sales) by investing in community and social media. In this episode we discuss: Work life balance Building a community of fans Following social trends and social selling Dragons Den and Made Up In Belfast Opening on the High Stre…

Phillip Oakley is a brand strategist and marketing consultant with over 20 years of experience helping brands stand out and grow. In this episode we discuss: The power of questions and curiosity Talking to your customers and the power of bringing the customer voice into the room Overcoming objections for talking to your customers What the movie Art…

Paul has been deep in brand diagnosis, strategy and realisation for over 25 years. You need to hear how he thinks about brands. In this episode we discuss: Listening as a superpower for strategists Why strategy isn’t predicting the future – with a hat tip to JP Castlin Mike Tyson on strategy Creators building brands Defining what a brand isn’t help…

Devora Rogers developed the methodology deployed for Google's groundbreaking ZMOT research. Yes, THAT Zero Moment of Truth research. In this episode we discuss: How everything changes One HELL of a medical story Zero moment of truth (ZMOT) and convincing people to buy online How long people take to decide to buy something Using data to tell stories…

Magda is a research professor at the Ehrenberg-Bass Institute in Adelaide. She has been widely published in academic journals and authored two chapters in How Brands Grow 2. In this episode we discuss: The importance of curiosity The impact of How Brands Grow The Semmelweis effect and The Sharp Effect Learn, test and learn The high performance cult…

Úna is the co-founder of The Indie List, Ireland’s leading platform for connecting businesses with top-tier freelance talent across marketing, creative, and digital disciplines. In this episode we discuss: Why it’s OK not have everything figured out Building a community of marketers The Indie List Why pitching as an independent is tough The benefit…

James Hurman does a lot. He’s a strategist, a creative, an entrepreneur, an investor, a teacher and a great bloke. In this episode we discuss: The lessons from ancient cultures The power of delegation Making not drinking cool AF Influencer partnerships with the Kardashians The story behind Tracksuit, the brand tracking platform How James approaches…

Nils Wimby is an experienced leader in marketing with a strategic mindset and a proven track record of generating value. In this episode we discuss: The architect, plumber and pipe wrench Problemformuleringsprivilegiet (a great word to say if you don’t speak Swedish) Volvo and their journey to premium Jaguar’s rebrand and if it as a good idea How M…

Dan Knowlton, the co-founder of Knowlton, has delivered millions in trackable sales for some of the world’s leading brands. In this episode we discuss: How he grew Knowlton from working with micro business to big brands Learning from mistakes Having your dad as a non exec How to write marketing reports Working with Barry from Eastenders Why nostalg…

Suzanne is the Director CEE, Google Customer Solutions and a long time Googler. In this episode we discuss: Planning (or not) for a career How digital marketing has changed in the 25 years Has brand loyalty changed over the years Do you need to be always on with your marketing Talk to your customers Working across counties and customs Using AI as a…

Carrie Rose runs Rise at Seven, the Search-First creative agency from the UK that’s taking over America. In this episode we discuss: Business is just business Positioning for fast fashion Saying no to new business Using values in your agency When to say no to clients The Rise at Seven story The role of data in decision making Strategy v tactics Str…

Aaron Ahuvia PhD is the world’s leading scientific expert on brand love. In this episode we discuss: How the brain works and what we know about love What it’s like working with Philip Kotler How we define love and why it matters to marketers How to build brand love What to do when brand love isn’t something you should aspire to Anthropomorphism and…

Rachel runs marketing at Equitas and her own fashion brand, Ivy Haven. We explore the similarities and differences! This is the final episode in the 2024 Black History Month mini series. In this episode we discuss: Setting the ambition for a DEI in NI event Celebrating small wins SaaS marketing for a start up Positioning the right message to the ri…

Blessing is the Business Inclusion Programme Manager at NatWest, where her role focusses on breaking down barriers to enterprise for Ethnic Minority owned businesses across the UK. We talk about the challenges and opportunities for Ethnic Minority owned businesses and the impact on the country. This is the second episode in the 2024 Black History M…

This episode was recorded live at Ulster Bank as part of our mini series for Black History Month. It features David Levin and Charmaine McConville. In this episode we discuss: The early days of social media The challenges of growing a start up Acting on advice from loved ones The best petrol station in Ireland Whether Bradford or Leeds is better (i…

Miracle is the Head of Search at John Lewis Finance, with over a decade of experience helping global and national brands increase their visibility. In this episode we discuss:• Organic and paid search playing nicely together• The importance of brands in search• Working for the darling of the British high street• Building effective teams• The differ…

Allen Adamson is an industry expert in all disciplines of branding. He has worked with a broad spectrum of consumer and corporate businesses in industries ranging from packaged goods and technology to health care, financial services, hospitality, and entertainment. In this episode we discuss: Why Skype died The joy of a 1 page document Switching fr…

In this episode, we explore the creative process behind our top campaigns and the fine line between inspiration and imitation. We reveal where our ideas really come from—whether it's TikTok trends, classic TV shows, or outdated platforms. We also share behind-the-scenes stories, like Lloyd's octopus snack mishap and an office prank that pissed Dan …

In this Knowlton Nugget, Dan and Lloyd as they dive into the latest marketing trends. They talk about Box Bollon, a company making waves with its sports products. You’ll hear how they gamified their product and partnered with celebrities like Tyson Fury and Khloe Kardashian to boost their success. Dan and Lloyd discuss the effective use of low-prod…

In this Knowlton nugget, Dan and Lloyd dive into a bizarre marketing 'fail' by North Face. They discuss a viral TikTok where a woman criticized her North Face jacket for not being waterproof and the brand's unexpected response that missed the mark on multiple fronts. Instead of addressing the issue, they amplified the negative feedback, raising que…

In this Knowlton Nugget, Lloyd shares a key lesson about managing risk. He recounts a challenging period when their business faced a gap between projects, leading to a significant financial loss. This experience revealed the vulnerabilities of a project-based income model. To prevent future issues, they’ve diversified their income with more retaine…

Dan and Lloyd discuss the tendency to put off tasks that can drastically improve productivity and quality of life in the long run. They highlight the concept from the book "Eat That Frog," which emphasizes tackling the biggest and most difficult task first each day. Dan shares his personal experience of procrastinating on upgrading his computer, on…

Dan shares a hilarious mishap over the Christmas period involving a cheese grater. He confesses to mistakenly using a foot grater for his favorite snack, cheese on toast. Amid laughter, Dan and Lloyd discuss the importance of paying attention to details and how even small mistakes can lead to memorable stories. Tune in for a good laugh and a remind…

In this episode, we delve into lessons from entrepreneurial mistakes and how they can lead to success. We discuss Boyd Bolton's infamous wig story and the importance of proper planning. We also explore evolving networking strategies and the critical role of consistent event planning. How will you apply these insights to avoid pitfalls and enhance y…

Dave Birss is an educator, a recovering creative director and man used to spelling his last name over the phone. In this episode we discuss: Why producing unique work is hard What a creative director really does How Dave became a leading voice in AI Where AI can really help companies Where AI shouldn’t be used Why Dave won’t ever be employed by the…

In this episode, we explore the evolution of QVC into viral TikTok shopping videos and how clever engagement bait drives sales. We also discuss the surprising appeal of POV "Shop with Me" content, reveal why LinkedIn Thought Leader Ads outperform traditional company page ads and understand the crucial role of addressing relatable problems with crea…

Dan recalls a past experience that taught him a valuable lesson, qualifying for an opportunity. Both Dan and Lloyd come to an understanding that not all opportunities are worth all your time. Stop chasing every opportunity without knowing if you are the right solution for them, take your time to ask yourself important questions! Full episode - E161…

Ikram Mohideen is the Chief Strategy Officer at Shift Integrated, an independent agency in Sri Lanka. In this episode we discuss: Why quant doesn’t tell you everything The importance of testing and radical thinking Focus on effectiveness Marketing and advertising in a difficult economic climate Lessons from judging awards Does positioning exist Rec…

Dan and Lloyd teach us the importance of real, authentic relationships in the marketing world and how these relationships have benefitted their business. So stop rehearsing your lines at your next networking event and make real relationships! Full episode - E161: Skyrocket Your Sales: Discover 5 Techniques That Drove £125K+ In Sales Last Month…

Join Dan and Lloyd as they dish out some juicy insights about the importance of customer perception using the example of Cameo apples. Lloyd opens up about his past slip-ups in not effectively communicating their successes, turning his blunders into valuable lessons for your own business ventures. The key takeaway from this Nugget? Communicate! Ful…

In this episode, we dissect recent VIRAL marketing campaigns, from Specsavers' van stunt to subtle celebrity endorsements from David Beckham. We also discuss how AI programs, like Sora are allowing small-budget campaigns to challenge their high-budgeted competitors. Learn how brands leverage creativity to capture attention and gain valuable insight…

Lloyd doesn't hold back as he critiques Dan's segueing abilities and his tendency to interject with excited gasps. In short, this Nugget is just Dan receiving criticism from his brother or as Lloyd would call it 'brotherly love'. Have you noticed Dan doing this? Full episode - E161: Skyrocket Your Sales: Discover 5 Techniques That Drove £125K+ In S…

James Hayhurst is former MD of Leagas Delaney, Global Brand Equity Director for OMO/Persil at Unilever and the Founder of the Magic Sauce Course. In this episode we discuss: What makes great creative Why the agency / client relationship break down The importance of talking to your customers The Parents Promise LondonSEOXL ⁠ - use code Andi20 to get…

Dan and Lloyd reflect on a past guest's perspective on business dilemmas. Robbie Knox from the Happy Hour podcast shares his thoughts on choosing between financial success in a dull industry or mediocrity in an enjoyable one. What do you think of this trade-off? Would you rather make money or find enjoyment at work? Full episode - E145: Business Ad…

In today's episode, we cover the BEST marketing strategies to help you become a better marketer. From Lidl's cheeky personality approach to data-backed campaigns from McVities. We look into the challenges of originality in advertising, the need to be both relatable AND funny, creating swift responses to viral events and crafting PR-worthy campaigns…

Lidia Infante is Head of SEO at SurveyMonkey. Lidia has over a decade of marketing experience and a strong focus on SEO and content strategy. She also LOVES data. In this episode we discuss one tip that can boost your career and finding a partner by applying marketing principles to dating. Recommendations Andi writing for JP Castlin’s Strategy in P…

Lloyd shares a valuable insight about the dangers of comparing oneself to others, using humorous examples to drive the point home. By highlighting that people often showcase only their best aspects on social media, he encourages listeners to avoid comparing their entire lives to others' highlight reels. Full episode - E154: The Happiness Blueprint:…

Catherine is a long time listener to the Strategy Sessions and good friend. It’s an honour to hand over the reigns for this episode – the first I don’t feature on! – to Catherine. In this episode we discuss the highlights from the episodes featuring Aleya Harris, Geraldine DeRuiter and Emma Mallett that made up the Women’s History Month Mini Series…

Dan and Lloyd discuss the dilemma of honesty versus sustenance at work, debating whether they'd rather never lie or never eat on the job. They think about how these choices could affect how they communicate and how satisfied they feel professionally. As they talk it through, they reflect on how to stay true to themselves while handling the pressure…

Special guest, Chris Kubby from Cubco joins Dan & Lloyd to discuss the advantages and disadvantages of AI. Chris advocates for deploying a hypothetical kill switch due to concerns about AI's rapid disruption of jobs and society. Are regulatory measures needed to manage the impact of AI? Full episode - E145: Business Advice From Robbie Knox, Harry H…

Emma Mallett is in marketing and business development for a B Corp. She also helps young marketers build a career, via her Concrete Club platform and podcast. In this episode we discuss: Working for a B Corp How marketing and sales can work better together Building a career Fighting back from life threatening adversity Recommendations Waking the Ti…

Lloyd uses a quirky analogy of a "boat of happiness" to highlight the importance of positive habits in maintaining well-being amidst life's challenges. By envisioning life's stressors as passengers that weigh down the boat, he emphasises the need for "life jackets" in the form of healthy habits like exercise, socialising, and personal development. …

Dan & Lloyd discuss Dan's habit of interrupting during the podcast and Lloyd's frustration at Dan's eagerness to speak. They agree to work on smoother transitions and being more aware of when to speak. They discuss the importance of giving each other feedback to improve their podcast and all aspects of the business. Full episode - E161: Skyrocket Y…

Take The Heat, is out now. It’s a series of essays about food, feminism and fury. In this episode we discuss: Promoting a book The story behind If You Can’t Take The Heat Dealing with internet trolls Creativity Geraldine's Links If You Can't Take the Heat: Tales of Food, Feminism, and Fury The blog where it all started, I Made the Pizza Cinnamon Ro…

Today's episode is filled with game-changing insights (we don't say that lightly)! We talk about the power of TESTING new marketing tactics & platforms like TikTok and LinkedIn Thought Leader Ads. We also reveal strategies to multiply your profits, from leveraging undervalued attention to outsourcing expertise. Plus, learn the power of analysing da…

Dan shares how prioritising his health has made him feel much happier. Upgrading his gym membership and abstaining from alcohol were key factors that significantly improved his mental and physical well-being. These lifestyle changes underscore the importance of investing in health over other indulgences, such as drinking. Full episode - E154: The H…

Aleya Harris is the spark for your spark™. With her infectious energy and profound expertise, Aleya Harris stands as a intersection of innovative storytelling and strategic thinking. In this episode we discuss: The secret to successful public speaking Using stories to build your organisation Succeeding through adversity Being part of StoryBrand Und…

Lloyd looks back on his dreams from childhood to adulthood, including wanting to go to Disneyland as a child to hoping for financial stability and health in adulthood. This reflection sparks a conversation about how dreams change over time and emphasises the value of celebrating even the smallest successes in life. Full episode - E154: The Happines…

Duane runs Take Some Risks, a Toronto based agency that helps ecommerce and DTC brands grow through strategy, PPC marketing, and data. Top 3 things in this episode: Moving from delivery to strategy for clients Staying nimble in the face of changes by Google and Meta Lessons on pricing from the luxury sector Duane Brown Duane has been called an inte…

Special guest Mark Knowlton (our Dad) answers this classic 'would you rather' question. He shares some insights on balancing career phases, reflecting on the trade-offs between managing a large team for a higher salary and prioritising personal well-being. Full episode - E145: Business Advice From Robbie Knox, Harry Hugo, Chris Kubby & More…