When a Big Chop Becomes Big Impact: How Ava Pearl is building CurlyConLA through Authenticity, Culture & Community

7 Experts Breakdown the Sydney Sweeney Social Media Drama

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2463921/open_sms] An ad about jeans. A storm of global opinions. And a brand caught in the middle. In this episode of Making the Moment, host Aja Bradley Kemp dives deep into the viral “Sydney Sweeney has great jeans” ad that dominated headlines and split the internet—with hot takes from Donald Trump, Doja Cat, and everyone in between. But was this viral moment a marketing masterstroke or a brand misstep? Joined by a panel of seven expert marketers, including Hailey Knott, the former American Eagle social media lead, we explore what this media storm reveals about risk, reputation, and relevance in an always-on, always-reacting world. Here are some of the biggest takeaways for marketers navigating today’s cultural and reputational minefield: * When does disruptive marketing cross the line into divisiveness? * Why agency-brand dynamics and internal culture shape crisis outcomes * Why having a crisis playbook is non-negotiable for bold campaigns * What Gen Z and Gen Alpha expect and demand from the brands they support If you are a brand marketer, CEO, or social media manager you do not want to miss this episode!  🎧 Subscribe & Share If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and share with your fellow visionaries. 💼 Work With Us Interested in booking a guest, sponsorship, or collaboration? Contact us at mtm@conversatecollective.com [mtm@conversatecollective.com]. 📍 Connect with Us: * Host: Aja Bradley Kemp [https://www.instagram.com/ajabradleykemp/] Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/makingthemomentpod/] | Listen on iHeartRadio [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-making-the-moment-272543407/] | Watch on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@makingthemomentpodcast] 🎙️ Making the Moment is produced by Conversate Collective [https://ConversateCollective.com].

Activation to Acquisition: The $600 Million blueprint that helped Mielle become a Cultural Force

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2463921/open_sms] What does it take to turn a beauty brand into a cultural phenomenon? In our season finale, host Aja Bradley Kemp sits down with Selina Davis- experiential marketing maven and the force behind Mielle’s unforgettable brand activations and the coveted pink bag. Selina shares her journey from talent manager to leading Mielle’s experiential strategy during its explosive growth and eventual acquisition by Procter & Gamble (P&G). We unpack how in-person experiences can drive exponential brand love and how global brands can stay consistent and culturally relevant. This episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss, including: * What top retailers and potential acquirers are really thinking when they see your brand activation * How a community-first mindset helped Mielle build unshakable brand loyalty * What unique challenges and growth opportunities come with being a Black-owned brand navigating acquisition * How to create experiential campaigns that resonate across global markets without compromising brand identity * How a pink swag bag became a cult favorite and why moments like that drive emotional brand connection * Why strong professional relationships open unforeseen doors, How to find harmony in motherhood, creativity, and corporate leadership with purpose and boundaries. Whether you're scaling a brand, navigating acquisition, or rethinking the power of live experiences, this conversation is rich with strategic insights straight from the culture. 🎧 Subscribe & Share If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and share with your fellow visionaries. 💼 Work With Us Interested in booking a guest, sponsorship, or collaboration? Contact us at mtm@conversatecollective.com [mtm@conversatecollective.com]. 📍 Connect with Us: * Host: Aja Bradley Kemp [https://www.instagram.com/ajabradleykemp/] Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/makingthemomentpod/] | Listen on iHeartRadio [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-making-the-moment-272543407/] | Watch on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@makingthemomentpodcast] 🎙️ Making the Moment is produced by Conversate Collective [https://ConversateCollective.com].

Innovate or Be Left Behind: Live Events that Beat the Algorithm

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2463921/open_sms] In the era of digital overload, how do brands earn real attention? In this episode of Making the Moment, host Aja Bradley-Kemp sits down with Kim Aimi, a visionary leader who's orchestrated some of the biggest global activations including Post Malone performing at the Louvre. As a self-described "brand lover and problem solver”, she takes us on a journey through her career, revealing the strategy, creativity, and resilience it takes to turn pressure into possibility. In this insightful conversation, Kim shares: * How to transform complex financial technology into compelling emotional storytelling that deeply resonates with your audience, leveraging tools like VR and AR. * How to genuinely connect with diverse modern audiences, from B2B clients to Gen Z, by tapping into powerful cultural trends like music and gaming. * How to leverage innovative platforms such as Roblox. * Why it's crucial for agencies to push boundaries and bring bold, transformative concepts to the table. * Why hands-on mentorship and in-person collaboration remain vital for developing the next generation of creative talent in a remote-first world. If you're a marketer, event strategist, or creative leader looking to scale meaningful, measurable experiences—this episode is for you. #KimAimi, #MakingTheMoment, #ExperientialMarketing, #PostMalone, #Paris2024, #VisaExperiences, #BrandInnovation, #ImmersiveEvents, #CreativeTech, #EventStrategy, #GlobalMarketing, #OlympicSponsorship, #AugmentedReality, #Roblox, #LourveMuseum, #WomenInMarketing,  🎧 Subscribe & Share If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and share with your fellow visionaries. 💼 Work With Us Interested in booking a guest, sponsorship, or collaboration? Contact us at mtm@conversatecollective.com [mtm@conversatecollective.com]. 📍 Connect with Us: * Host: Aja Bradley Kemp [https://www.instagram.com/ajabradleykemp/] Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/makingthemomentpod/] | Listen on iHeartRadio [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-making-the-moment-272543407/] | Watch on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@makingthemomentpodcast] 🎙️ Making the Moment is produced by Conversate Collective [https://ConversateCollective.com].

Turning Cold Calls into Corporate Deals: LaTonya Story shares the Sports Power Brunch Playbook

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2463921/open_sms] Ever wondered how the most iconic events in sports come to life? In this episode of Making the Moment, host Aja Bradley-Kemp sits down with LaTonya Story, PR powerhouse and founder of the iconic Sports Power Brunch—one of the most sought-after events during Super Bowl week, celebrating the achievements of women in sports. LaTonya shares how she built her career from the ground up, starting with a cold call that landed her a role with Allen Iverson’s celebrity event and later evolved into her founding LPS Consulting PR. From working with NFL legends to creating unforgettable sponsor activations with Porsche, Lululemon, ESPN Films, and Cantu, LaTonya reveals the strategy behind creating moments that move people and brands. Here's just a glimpse of what you'll learn from LaTonya's incredible story: * What are the exciting new opportunities and the current landscape for women professionals and athletes in the sports industry * How to build a successful career, even from unconventional beginnings * What strategies are key for attracting and collaborating with major brand sponsors (such as Porsche, Lululemon, ESPN Films, and Cantu) on event activations * Why powerful networking and strategic relationship-building are essential for success in the sports and entertainment world. * How to create emotionally resonant event programming that empowers and genuinely connects attendees. * How to transform personal passion into a purpose-driven business or impactful event. LaTonya also opens up about founding the Sterling Legacy Fund in honor of her late son, and how she's using the Sports Power Brunch platform to drive health equity and create legacy through impact. If you're passionate about women in sports or purpose-driven events, this episode is a must-listen. 🎧 Subscribe & Share If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and share with your fellow visionaries. 💼 Work With Us Interested in booking a guest, sponsorship, or collaboration? Contact us at mtm@conversatecollective.com [mtm@conversatecollective.com]. 📍 Connect with Us: * Host: Aja Bradley Kemp [https://www.instagram.com/ajabradleykemp/] Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/makingthemomentpod/] | Listen on iHeartRadio [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-making-the-moment-272543407/] | Watch on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@makingthemomentpodcast] 🎙️ Making the Moment is produced by Conversate Collective [https://ConversateCollective.com].

When a Big Chop Becomes Big Impact: How Ava Pearl is building CurlyConLA through Authenticity, Culture & Community

Send a text [https://www.buzzsprout.com/twilio/text_messages/2463921/open_sms] What happens when a single haircut sparks a movement? In this week’s episode of Making the Moment, we talk to Ava Pearl, the visionary behind Curly Culture and CurlyConLA. From a musician’s pivot to community builder, Ava shares how she launched a powerful in-person experience that celebrates natural beauty, empowers creators, and fosters genuine connection in the curly hair space. Prepare to revolutionize your approach to events and community, as Ava reveals: * Why building a thriving community event was her ultimate goal, surpassing the traditional conference * Why inclusive event planning is the cornerstone of a brand’s success * How to turn consumer desires into irresistible, buzz-worthy programming for your next event. * How to cultivate authentic relationships to attract aligned sponsors & strategic partnerships  * How brands can create memorable events influencers can’t wait to attend and share  If you're eager to learn how to cultivate a vibrant, in-person community and transform your brand's engagement, this episode is your essential guide.  #MakingTheMoment #ConversateCollective #Curlycon #CurlyCulture #AvaPearl #NaturalHairCommunity #BeautyEvents #CurlyHairLove #BlackWomenInBeauty #InclusiveEvents #EventPlanning #CreatorEvents #SponsorshipStrategy  🎧 Subscribe & Share If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, rate, and share with your fellow visionaries. 💼 Work With Us Interested in booking a guest, sponsorship, or collaboration? Contact us at mtm@conversatecollective.com [mtm@conversatecollective.com]. 📍 Connect with Us: * Host: Aja Bradley Kemp [https://www.instagram.com/ajabradleykemp/] Follow on Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/makingthemomentpod/] | Listen on iHeartRadio [https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1333-making-the-moment-272543407/] | Watch on TikTok [https://www.tiktok.com/@makingthemomentpodcast] 🎙️ Making the Moment is produced by Conversate Collective [https://ConversateCollective.com].