Episodes

  • Retaining Talent in a High-Turnover Industry: Lessons from GALE’s Brad Simms

    Retaining Talent in a High-Turnover Industry: Lessons from GALE’s Brad Simms
    Nov 20 2024
    The advertising industry faces an annual turnover rate of 27%, costing companies their talent, creativity, and momentum. On this episode, Ren Akinci speaks to Brad Simms, Founder & CEO of GALE, about how his agency has tackled this challenge with investing $1M dollars in learning, training and development initiatives. From dedicated career coaches to an […]
    Show more Show less
    44 mins
  • Creating Safe Workplaces Amid Societal Challenges: Insights from Dr. Lori Watson

    Creating Safe Workplaces Amid Societal Challenges: Insights from Dr. Lori Watson
    Oct 31 2024
    On this episode, Ren Akinci and Dr. Lori Watson discuss how leaders can effectively respond to societal incidents that impact employees, creating a safe and inclusive workplace. They explore essential strategies for open discussions on race, balancing inclusivity with free speech, and building a lasting commitment to racial equity in organizations.
    Show more Show less
    46 mins
  • Redefining Inclusive Leadership in Advertising

    Redefining Inclusive Leadership in Advertising
    Oct 16 2024
    On this episode Ren Akinci speaks to Kumi Croom, the first Managing Director at Duncan Channon. Kumi has been a trailblazer in leading the agency’s equity, diversity, and inclusion efforts, building initiatives to recruit and retain BIPOC talent and creating a culturally conscious approach to their creative work. From launching the EDI Group to establishing […]
    Show more Show less
    30 mins
  • Shaping Political Campaigns and Company Culture: Lessons from the CEO of SKDK

    Shaping Political Campaigns and Company Culture: Lessons from the CEO of SKDK
    Sep 11 2024
    In this episode, Ren Akinci speaks with Doug Thornell, the CEO of SKDK, one of the top political advertising and public affairs agencies, about shaping political campaigns and building company culture. As the election year heats up, we discuss the challenges of creating impactful political ads, staying agile, and fostering equity and inclusion within the […]
    Show more Show less
    57 mins
  • From First Employee to CEO: Leadership Lessons at 72andSunny

    From First Employee to CEO: Leadership Lessons at 72andSunny
    Jun 18 2024
    On today’s episode, Ren Akinci is joined by Evin Shutt, the CEO of 72andSunny, as they celebrate a major milestone: 72andSunny 20th anniversary. Evin was the first hired employee at 72andSunny 18 years ago and has been leading the brand as CEO for the past four years. Tune in as Evin shares her journey from […]
    Show more Show less
    25 mins
  • Creating Belonging: LGBTQ+ Allyship Beyond Pride Week

    Creating Belonging: LGBTQ+ Allyship Beyond Pride Week
    May 29 2024
    In this episode, Ren Akinci is joined by Ben Cicchetti, Vice President of Corporate Marketing at InfoSum and a passionate advocate for the LGBTQ+ community. Together, they discuss the importance of fostering true LGBTQ+ inclusion in the workplace and explore how support for LGBTQ+ colleagues must extend beyond Pride Week.
    Show more Show less
    34 mins
  • Innovate, Engage and Disrupt: Shaping a Dynamic Culture at Movers + Shakers

    Innovate, Engage and Disrupt: Shaping a Dynamic Culture at Movers + Shakers
    Apr 24 2024
    In this episode, Ren Akinci is joined by Geoffrey Goldberg, a Broadway performer and director, and Evan Horowitz, a marketing expert, founders of Movers + Shakers. This agency champions the motto of spreading joy through innovative advertising. Learn how they navigate calculated risks for success, create a joyful work culture, and empower their team in […]
    Show more Show less
    29 mins
  • Resilience, Joy, and Leadership: Navigating Challenges with Positivity

    Resilience, Joy, and Leadership: Navigating Challenges with Positivity
    Apr 10 2024
    In this episode of Great Minds: People & Culture, Ren Akinci and Mercy for Animals CEO Leah Garcès delve into the world of resilient leadership and the pursuit of joy in advocacy. Join us as we explore strategies for fostering morale, sustainability, and well-being within organizations striving for meaningful change.
    Show more Show less
    26 mins