Jamie Schwartzman, Founder of Flux Branding and a seasoned brand strategist with over three decades of experience in creative direction, psychology, and business transformation, speaks with Host Simon Hodgkins in this episode. 0:00 – Introduction & Welcome 1:07 – What Is Brand Strategy? 3:14 – Brand as a Long-Term Asset 5:25 – How AI Is Changing Branding 9:20 – The IDEA Method Explained 15:22 – The Concept Behind “Brilliant” 20:38 – What's Ahead: AI, Ethics & Embracing Change 25:55 – Fin...
Jul 01, 2025•28 min•Ep. 253
There's something quietly electric about hearing someone talk when they've truly followed a hunch into uncharted territory and made something real out of it. That was the vibe when Pia Mailhot-Leichter, founder of Kollektiv Studio and author of Welcome to the Creative Club, joined The Global Discussion podcast with Host Simon Hodgkins. 00:00 - Welcome and Introduction 00:51 - Agency Life as a Creative SWAT Team 02:45 - The "Extinction Moment" That Changed Everything 03:47 - A Winding Path from N...
Jun 25, 2025•30 min•Ep. 252
Host Simon Hodgkins catches up with David Carson, a marketing innovator and creative strategist who has turned the idea of "dumb thinking" into a superpower. With a rich background in advertising, entertainment, and brand innovation, David shares his unconventional philosophy that might inspire your next big idea. 00:00 - Introduction & Welcome 01:45 - Dumb Ideas as the Secret Sauce 02:19 - What is Demify? 05:25 - Dumb Ideas that Changed the World 10:05 - The Trap of Being Too Smart 15:09 - ...
Jun 04, 2025•28 min•Ep. 251
Host Simon Hodgkins welcomed a genuinely inspiring guest: Kim Mackenzie-Doyle, Instigator and CEO of The Big Idea. With a powerful personal story and a passion for reshaping education through creativity and problem-solving, Kim is not just talking about change—she’s building it from the ground up. 00:00 – Welcome & Guest Introduction 00:26 – From Trauma to Firestarter 02:10 – Discovering Design & Defying Expectations 03:40 – The Birth of The Big Idea 06:30 – Education Reform, ADHD, &...
Mar 28, 2025•19 min•Ep. 250
In this episode of The Global Discussion, Matt Lyles—Customer Experience (CX) Consultant, Keynote Speaker, and member of the Board of Directors at CX Accelerator, joins Host Simon Hodgkins for a wide-ranging conversation that unpacked the evolving world of customer and employee experience. With a career rooted in marketing, brand management, and CX leadership at FedEx, Matt now helps businesses worldwide build loyalty through one powerful principle: simplicity. 00:00 - Welcome & Introduction...
Mar 20, 2025•21 min•Ep. 249
In this episode of The Global Discussion, Host Simon Hodgkins speaks with Jamie Mackenzie, a multi-bestselling author, international speaker, and coach. Jamie's journey is one of transformation—shifting from a high-flying corporate career to a mission-driven path focused on growth and storytelling. His passion for the power of stories has not only shaped his own success but is now inspiring businesses, individuals, and even schools. 00:00 Introduction 02:20 The Story Behind 28 Bags of Sprouts 09...
Mar 13, 2025•28 min•Ep. 248
Mack Garrison, Co-Founder of Dash Studio, a high-end animation and motion design agency, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. Mack's passion for creativity, problem-solving, and community-building shone through as he shared insights on the evolving landscape of motion design, marketing, and the power of authentic storytelling. 00:00 - Introduction 00:26 - How Mack Garrison Got Into Motion Design 03:10 - What Is High-End Animation and Motion Design 05:55 - The Secre...
Mar 06, 2025•24 min•Ep. 247
Jaime Schwarz joined The Global Discussion podcast with Host Simon Hodgkins, offering deep insights into the future of branding, AI-driven brand identity, and the evolving role of businesses in a post-AI world. His journey—from a successful career in advertising to pioneering brand therapy and digital authentication—reveals a visionary approach to brand-building that prioritizes authenticity, adaptability, and technological evolution. 00:00 - Welcome & Introduction 01:00 - From Psychology to...
Feb 27, 2025•28 min•Ep. 246
Billy Samoa Saleebey, Co-Founder and CEO of Podify, joins Host Simon Hodgkins in this episode of The Global Discussion. Billy shared his incredible journey—from making films in Hollywood to revolutionizing onboarding at Tesla and now leading the charge in the podcasting industry. 00:00 - Welcome & Introduction 00:54 - From Hollywood to Solar Energy 03:11 - Working at Tesla & Creating a Global Onboarding Program 04:18 - The Shift to Podcasting & Founding Podify 06:54 - Lessons from Po...
Feb 20, 2025•33 min•Ep. 245
Erica Orange, Partner at The Future Hunters, a leading futurist consulting firm, joined host Simon Hodgkins on The Global Discussion podcast for an insightful conversation on the future of AI, human adaptability, and the evolving landscape of truth. With nearly two decades of experience, Erica brings a deep understanding of sociocultural, technological, economic, geopolitical, and environmental trends—translating them into actionable strategies for organizations worldwide. 00:00 - Introduction &...
Feb 13, 2025•28 min•Ep. 244
Mine Dedekoca is the Founder and Chief Happiness Officer of Happy Work Studio, with over a decade of experience in remote work and a passion for fostering positive workplace cultures. Host Simon Hodgkins meets with Mine on this episode of The Global Discussion, where Mine shares her insights on the evolving work landscape and the importance of well-being in professional settings. A Remote Work Expert Mine's journey into remote work began in 2012, long before it became as widespread as it is toda...
Feb 06, 2025•24 min•Ep. 243
The Global Discussion welcomes a true expert in digital marketing—Gavin Duff, the Head of Digital at Friday Agency, Lecturer, Keynote Speaker, and Author of the brilliantly titled book Hiding Dead Bodies: Your No-Nonsense Path to SEO Glory. Gavin catches up with Host Simon Hodgkins for a compelling discussion. With over 20 years of hands-on experience in digital strategy, SEO, analytics, and e-commerce, Gavin has worked with some of the most recognized brands. Clients have included Bord Gáis, Bu...
Jan 30, 2025•27 min•Ep. 242
Host Simon Hodgkins catches up with Anne Ravanona, CEO and Founder of Global Invest Her, to discuss her groundbreaking work in tackling one of the world's most persistent inequalities—the funding gap for women entrepreneurs. Anne's passion for empowering women entrepreneurs is palpable. With a bold mission to fund one million women entrepreneurs by 2030, she is spearheading a global movement to address the systemic biases and barriers that have kept women underfunded, underestimated, and overloo...
Jan 23, 2025•43 min•Ep. 241
Tatiana Mirska, Chief Marketing Officer of CHI Software, shares her inspiring career journey across diverse industries like consumer goods, banking, eSports, and software. She discusses her role as a change agent, leading organizations through transformation while navigating challenges and cultural differences. Tatiana highlights CHI Software’s transition into AI-driven solutions, showcasing innovative products like customizable AI assistants. 00:00 - Tatiana Mirska, CMO 01:02 - Starting a Caree...
Jan 16, 2025•36 min•Ep. 240
Samantha Jewel, CEO of Urth, joined The Global Discussion to share her journey and solutions for addressing climate challenges. Her passion for soil health and her focus on action stand out as practical and impactful. From Restaurants to Regenerative Farming Samantha’s family founded Australia’s first restaurant chain in 1965. By the late 1990s, they served over 50,000 meals a week. While running the business, Samantha began to question farming practices. She was shocked by what she discovered—c...
Jan 09, 2025•40 min•Ep. 239
We welcome inspiring guest Tiphany Kane, CEO of KaSa Media Productions and a powerhouse in audio and video production, to this episode of The Global Discussion with Host Simon Hodgkins. Tiphany's story is not just about building a cutting-edge studio; it's about resilience, creativity, and a passion for empowering others. If you are into audio, podcasting, and everything sound-related, keep listening (or watching!) From Passionate Beginnings to Industry Pioneer Tiphany Kane's journey to becoming...
Jan 02, 2025•38 min•Ep. 238
The Global Discussion Podcast welcomes Sonia Amroun, the founder of Find Your Clients. Sonia shared her fascinating journey from being an actress to becoming a global digital nomad and a trailblazing entrepreneur. Her passion for empowering businesses, particularly startups and solopreneurs, was palpable throughout the conversation. Sonia’s unique perspective on blending creativity, business strategy, and conscious leadership makes her a force to reckon with in the modern business landscape. Fro...
Dec 18, 2024•28 min•Ep. 237
Guest Mary Ann Pierce, an inspirational leader, innovator, and advocate for women in business, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode. As the Founder and CEO of MAP Digital and a Global Ambassador for AwakenHub, Mary Ann is a trailblazer in digital transformation, event technology, and female entrepreneurship. A Pioneer in Digital Event Technology Mary Ann’s journey into the digital space began in 1996 when she conducted her first webcast—an experience she likens to falling into Alice’s rabbi...
Dec 16, 2024•45 min•Ep. 236
Guest Nataly Byelous, Group Marketing Director at RETN, is in discussion with The Global Discussion Host Simon Hodgkins. In this episode, we explore Nataly's remarkable journey and the critical role marketing plays in the ever-evolving telecommunications industry. With over two decades of experience, Nataly brings a unique perspective, blending creativity, strategy, and resilience. From TV to Telecommunications Nataly's career path is as fascinating as it is diverse. She began her professional j...
Dec 12, 2024•30 min•Ep. 235
The Global Discussion Host, Simon Hodgkins, speaks with Lisa Eaton, the Founder and CEO of Fabric. Lisa shared her inspiring journey to becoming a transformative leader, revolutionizing how marketing professionals learn and grow. Her story is not just one of personal triumph but a powerful commentary on how education and industry can better align to drive meaningful impact. A Career Built on Strategy and Vision Lisa Eaton's journey began in the marketing department of Sage, a company that has si...
Dec 11, 2024•37 min•Ep. 234
Samantha Hearne is the founder of Samantha Hearne Coaching, a dynamic entrepreneur, and a passionate advocate for helping women thrive in business. In this episode of The Global Discussion, in conversation with Host Simon Hodgkins, Sam shares her story and actionable insights. Her multi-faceted approach to success will leave listeners feeling motivated and ready to embrace simplicity, profit, and personal authenticity in their entrepreneurial journeys. A Vision Rooted in Simplicity and Success S...
Dec 04, 2024•39 min•Ep. 233
Join this thought-provoking conversation with guest Lindley Gooden and Global Discussion Host Simon Hodgkins. Lindley is a factual film director, journalist, and the Founder and Cheerleader-in-Chief of Greenscreen. His experience spans national news, content creation, and information ethics. Lindley is also the author of the timely and impactful book The Future of Truth (and How to Get There). The discussion illuminated some of the most pressing challenges of our time: misinformation, disinforma...
Dec 04, 2024•47 min•Ep. 232
Kerrie Finch is no stranger to the global stage; as the founder of The Finch Factor and co-founder of Also Known As Kerrie has become a driving force in the creative and tech innovation industries. Recently featured on The Global Discussion, she shared her incredible journey, her mission to empower others, and her insights into the rapidly evolving world of global communications. A Trailblazer in Communications Based in Amsterdam, Kerrie describes herself as a communications expert who thrives a...
Nov 28, 2024•36 min•Ep. 231
The need for trusted, ethical journalism has never been more critical in a world where the information landscape is evolving at breakneck speed. Lexie Kirkconnell Kawana, the Chief Executive Officer of Impress—the UK’s independent press regulator—is at the forefront of this mission, navigating the complex intersections of media regulation, public trust, and technological innovation. Lexie shared her insights on the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of journalism. A Vision Rooted in...
Nov 28, 2024•43 min•Ep. 230
Host Simon Hodgkins welcomes Aidan McCullen, a dynamic thought leader in innovation, reinvention, and organizational transformation, to The Global Discussion. McCullen's career is a testament to his ability to evolve and thrive in the face of change, from his early days as a professional rugby player to his influential work today as the co-founder of The Reinvention Summit, principal at Edge Behaviour, and host of The Innovation Show podcast. A Journey of Reinvention Aidan McCullen describes his...
Nov 13, 2024•48 min•Ep. 229
Emmet O’Sullivan, is a remarkable individual, Founder of Policy Playground, and an inspiring advocate for those with type 1 diabetes. Diagnosed with the condition at just 13, Emmet’s story is one of resilience, education, and empowerment—a journey he’s now sharing with others through his Amazon bestseller, Drew Discovers Diabetes. From Diagnosis to Determination Emmet’s life took a sudden turn in 2020 when he was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. For months, ...
Nov 08, 2024•28 min•Ep. 228
The host of The Global Discussion, Simon Hodgkins, speaks with Antonio Vieira Santos, an industry veteran who advocates for accessibility, inclusivity, and innovative digital transformation. Antonio, currently serving as Senior Business Intelligence and Innovation Evangelist at Eviden and Co-Founder of AXSChat, shared insights from his extensive experience in tech, corporate strategy, and digital transformation, all through the lens of accessibility and inclusivity. Antonio's career spans numero...
Nov 06, 2024•34 min•Ep. 227
The Global Discussion Host, Simon Hodgkins, catches up with Steve Gee, Co-Founder and CEO of Blend, a cutting-edge executive membership community aimed at revolutionizing how senior leaders connect, learn, and grow. In this episode, we discuss Steve's vision for fostering cognitive diversity among leaders of the world's largest enterprises. The Story Behind Blend: A Journey Rooted in Experience Steve Gee has spent over two decades bringing senior leaders together, creating valuable networking op...
Oct 25, 2024•34 min•Ep. 226
The Global Discussion Host, Simon Hodgkins, is joined by the remarkable world record holder and business owner Jenn Drummond. A car accident left Jenn Drummond awestruck and emboldened. Rescue workers couldn't imagine any scenario in which she came out of it alive, but she did. That's when she realized that you don't get to choose when you leave this life…but you sure can choose how you live it. Strengthened by this awareness, she set out to live more authentically and adventurously. Inspired to...
Oct 23, 2024•25 min•Ep. 225
Networking isn't just about business cards and handshakes—it's about creating lasting relationships that drive opportunities and growth. In this episode of The Global Discussion, Host Simon Hodgkins catches up with the "Connections Queen," Tracey Currell, to explore the world of strategic networking, entrepreneurship, and the power of human connection. As the Director and Founder of Introbiz and Youthbiz, Tracey has built a thriving global network that transforms businesses, connects people, and...
Oct 23, 2024•34 min•Ep. 224
