Strategy for Breakfast

Episode Description What if culture wasn’t just an HR buzzword—but the engine behind real innovation, trust, and business growth? In this episode of Strategy for Breakfast, Amanda Brilhante sits down with Cindy Chastain, the Former SVP, Global Head of Customer Experience & Design at Mastercard, to unpack why culture is far more than a branding exercise. They explore why trust is non-negotiable, why even killing a product can be a cultural win, and how meaningful change often starts with small, intentional steps. For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion Points: * Why 82% of CEOs are prioritizing culture as a business strategy. * How emotional resistance can block innovation and transformation. * Why shared language is key to cross-functional collaboration. Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here [http://gdsgroup.com/].  Get in touch: * Connect with Cindy Chastain [https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindychastain/]here  * Connect with Amanda Brilhante [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-brilhante/] here  * Or email podcast@gdsgroup.com [podcast@gdsgroup.com]

Episode Description We’re joined by Kae Neskovic, Executive Creative Director at Superside, for a candid conversation on what it really takes to evolve your brand without losing its soul. In a world chasing “human” content, Kae breaks down why authenticity isn’t just clever copy or user-generated content—it’s about emotional range, creative bravery, and embracing transformation without fear.  For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion Points: * When brand evolution efforts have been successful, and which aspects need to be avoided.  * Knowledge of how to build an accepting culture that allows for transformation but also doesn't feel creativity being threatened.  * The capabilities creative teams now need to develop to stay agile  Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here [http://gdsgroup.com/].  Get in touch: *       Connect with Kae Neskovic [https://www.linkedin.com/in/koviljka/] here        * Connect with David McGrath [https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-mcgrath-0984b69a/] here        * Or email podcast@gdsgroup.com [podcast@gdsgroup.com]

Episode Description In this episode, we dive into the forces shaping global supply chains, from commodity headwinds and tailwinds to surprising economic substitutes like Brazilian oranges and alternatives to chocolate. Our guest, Francisco Martin-Rayo, unpacks how hedge funds capitalize on volatility and why fluctuating grocery prices can mean big business for investors. Plus, we explore AI’s growing role in agriculture and what upskilling looks like for supply chain and commodities professionals navigating today’s evolving market. For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion Points: * Exploring supply chain trends, market volatility, and investment strategies to understand how commodities markets react to economic shifts and technological advancements. * The importance of adaptability, strategic insight, and innovation in managing supply chain disruptions, identifying market opportunities, and integrating AI in agriculture. * What’s the Outlook: The role of AI-driven efficiencies, shifting consumer demand, and financial strategies in shaping the future of supply chains and commodities markets. Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here [http://gdsgroup.com/].  Get in touch: * Connect with Francisco Martin-Rayo [https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisco-martin-rayo-b95b393/] * Connect with Keesa Schreane [https://www.linkedin.com/in/keesa-c-s-6b45bbb/] * Or email podcast@gdsgroup.com [podcast@gdsgroup.com]

Episode Description Does it feel like you've just wrapped your head around Generative AI, when you start hearing about Agentic AI everywhere? AI is evolving and it's high time we stop being intimidated by it! Our guest has been programming since he was 10 years old, so he's the perfect person to explain Agentic AI in digestible terms, and better still- how it will make work more enjoyable and productive. For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion Points: * In simple terms, what is Agentic AI? * What's the business value, and why should people want to embrace agents? * What’s the risk of NOT evolving and growing in our work by embracing these tools? Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here [http://gdsgroup.com/].  Get in touch: * Connect with Andy Lin [https://www.linkedin.com/in/andylin888/] * Connect with Kelley Iuele [https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelleyiuele/] * Or email podcast@gdsgroup.com [podcast@gdsgroup.com]

Episode Description In today’s oversaturated media landscape, capturing audience attention is only half the battle—what brands really want is action. So how do you move beyond impressions and create lasting engagement? This week, we’re joined by Michele Fino, a seasoned Chief Storyteller with deep expertise in branded entertainment and content strategy. Michele shares how marketers can use the power of storytelling, smart distribution, and timing to transform passive viewers into loyal, active consumers. For more, hear our extended conversation on YouTube! Discussion points: · Why storytelling must go hand-in-hand with smart distribution to make an impact · The “rule of seven” and how to diversify touchpoints without overwhelming your audience · How seasonal behavior and platform dynamics influence engagement strategies Strategy for Breakfast is brought to you by GDS, the leaders in data-driven engagement. If you want to get involved with the wider conversations shaping the future of your industry, check out our upcoming events here [http://gdsgroup.com/].  Get in touch: · Connect with Michele Fino [https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelefino/] ·  Connect with https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandabrilhanteAmanda Brilhante [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-brilhante/] · Or email podcast@gdsgroup.com