AdYack
The Official Podcast of the American Advertising Federation of the Greater Lehigh Valley. Our mission is to inspire creativity and enhance the professional development of the advertising and marketing communities where we live and work. I'm your host Bill Childs. And I'll talk with artists, designers, writers, directors, photographers, along with those who work in a creative capacity. Our aim here is to serve as a creative resource to help you stay informed, entertain, and above all, inspired.
S5 E7 · Fri, April 11, 2025
Ad Yack: Season 5, Episode 7: AdYack LIVE!
Welcome to AdYack LIVE! On March 13th, the American Advertising Awards took place at Cedar Crest College in Allentown, Pennsylvania. I had the privilege of interviewing the winners live during the show, capturing their reactions, insights, and stories behind the campaigns that took home the hardware. From the rush of winning to the creative process behind these groundbreaking designs, you’ll hear firsthand from the brilliant minds shaping the future of advertising. These are the professionals pushing boundaries and creating work that helps brands cut through the clutter. The American Advertising Awards has always been one of my favorite nights of the year. It’s the one time when the advertising and marketing community in the Lehigh Valley comes together to celebrate innovation, creativity, and exceptional marketing. So whether you were in the room, heard the buzz, or are just curious to see what went down, join me now as we highlight the best of the best from the Lehigh Valley, straight from the American Advertising Awards floor. From Gold and Silver winners to Judges’ Choice and Best in Show, both professional and student entries are in the spotlight today. This is AdYack LIVE! Featuring Bill Childs & Donna Mugavero #AdYackLive #AmericanAdvertisingAwards #LehighValleyCreatives #LVAdvertising #MarketingAwards #CreativeExcellence #AwardWinningWork #BestInAdvertising #CreativeCommunity #CelebratingCreativity https://portfolio.aafglv.org/
S5 E6 · Fri, February 28, 2025
Ad Yack: Season 5, Episode 6: JT Norman
If you've ever wondered how exceptional design can shape spaces, elevate brands, and even transform how we experience the world around us, you come to the right place. My guest today on the podcast is the award-winning and brilliant interior designer JT Norman—known for his bold, creative approach to design and ability to turn ordinary spaces into works of art. JT's work has earned him acclaim in the design world and a reputation for being a visionary with a unique understanding of how to mix style, function, and storytelling into all his projects. Whether it's a luxury penthouse or a commercial space, JT brings his distinct perspective to every project he touches. We discussed his recent design work on Meli, the newest Easton Greek restaurant, and how he transformed the old Maxim's into a European oasis. After you hear him share his advice and expertise, you’ll understand why he’s in such high demand. We spoke at length about how he uses the power of creativity to ignite his curiosity , to how he uses storytelling in his work, and his core design philosophy is something that I found fasinating. JT's approach to design is anything but conventional, and neither was this interview. I'm grateful he took the time to share his unique perspectives on the craft of what it means to be an interior designer.
S5 E5 · Fri, January 24, 2025
Ad Yack: Season 5, Episode 5: Ed Harris
My guest today is someone who I have admired ever since meeting him when he was working at The Valley Forge Convention and Visitors Bureau, headquartered in King of Prussia. PA. Five minutes into that meeting, I knew Ed and I would become friends. Our first meeting took place at the request of a mutual friend, who recommended we meet each other as they felt we had similar outlooks on life and business. Turns out, he was right. Ed grew up in Philadelphia and launched his marketing and advertising career at companies like Converse and Timberland, among others, before landing in the CEO chair at Visit Williamsburg this past Summer, where he works with a wide range of tourism partners like Colonial Williamsburg and Busch Gardens. Ed’s career journey is fascinating, as he could give a Masterclass on leadership and how to inspire a team. We spoke on various topics, including the innovation he participated in during his time working at Converse and Timberland and how both brands reinvented themselves and, in the process, created cult brands. Ed's a savvy marketer, a consummate leader, an adjunct professor at St. Joe's University, and an all-around great guy. Ask anyone who's ever worked with him, and you will hear nothing but praise and admiration for someone who never fails to leave a lasting mark. This interview is jam-packed with solid advice on how to lead a marketing team, how to get people to embrace risk, and what goes into creating a cult brand. We also discussed creativity's role in creating work that cuts through the clutter and drives results. Get ready to be inspired. Here is my Ad Yack, with Ed Harris. #creativity #tourism #travel #leadership #mentor #marketing #teaching #branddevelopment #branding #advertising #risk #ideas
S5 E4 · Fri, December 20, 2024
Ad Yack: Season 5, Episode 4: Francis Dunnery
Today's guest on the podcast is someone I have been a fan of for over 20 years. He's a gifted lyricist, brilliant guitarist, both acoustic and electric, producer, singer, and storyteller, and on a constant quest to seek new challenges wherever he may find them. I'm talking about Francis Dunnery. Dunnery has always pushed the envelope of what he believes music can be by simply refusing to be boxed in to a specific genre. My first encounter with Francis was at a show back in 1997 at the Tin Angel in Philadelphia, after a friend gave me one of his CD’s and we went to see him play. As the former frontman of prog rockers, It Bites, Dunnery had embarked on a solo career, and what I witnessed that night on the stage changed my life. That's not hyperbole; that's my truth. Dunnery is unapologetically authentic, which is what I love about him. We yak it up about his musical influences, his love of 70’s music, his favorite band, Genesis, his creative process, and to how he has zero interest in remaining stagnant or complacent. His musical collaborations have included working with Robert Plant, Ian Brown, Lauryn Hill, Santana, and Anderson Bruford Wakeman Howe as a producer and/or collaborator with David Sancious, and Chris Difford of Squeeze. I asked Francis how he landed the gig as Robert Plant's guitarist, and what he said, both surprised and delighted me. In 2002, Dunnery founded the Charlie and Kathleen Dunnery Children's Fund, a volunteer-run fundraising charity based in his hometown of Egremont, and named in honor of his late parents, whose mission is to provide grants and charitable donations to organizations that directly benefit local Cumbrian children in need. Throughout his life, Dunnery experienced things most of us only get to read about in rock magazines. From his life on the road touring with Former Led Zep frontman Robert Plant to today, living a more quite existence in the mountains of Pennsylvania away from the music industry. Dunnery's next big adventure is “The Life Farm” which will provide meaningful employment to the under served and will offer a variety of classes involving nature and the arts. This interview is a fun, wild ride through the mind of someone I have admired for a long time, and I believe, you'll understand why after you hear our conversation. I’m grateful that he sat down with me to discuss his life, music, and work. Here is my Ad Yack....with Francis Dunnery. #music #creativity #guitarplayer #songwriter #inspiration #guitar #singer
S5 E3 · Fri, November 01, 2024
Ad Yack: Season 5, Episode 3: Cameron Day
Today on AdYack I talk to Cameron Day, Cameron is a brilliant creative director, brand strategist, and the malcontent scribe behind an awesome series of books called the Advertising Survival Guide trilogy, which delves into brand architecture, political landmines, and mentorship. Cameron’s latest book, Stones & Sticks, is chock full of great advice for creatives at any level, and Cameron’s not afraid to tell the uncomfortable stories right alongside the inspiring ones. He also happens to be the son of Guy Day, one of the all-time agency greats and co-founder of global agency TBWA Chiat/Day. Cameron will be coming to the Lehigh Valley on November 21st at Moravian University Foy Hall to share his wealth of knowledge and wisdom in person. Cameron has penned medal-attracting work for Land Rover, Microsoft, Shiner Beer, Diesel, Rolling Stone Magazine, and Wyoming Tourism, among others. Cameron and I yak it up on topics ranging from why he believes that good enough is not enough to the story of how Apple CEO Steve Jobs hated the original ‘Think Different’ campaign, to the great advice his father Guy gave him over the years as Cameron was growing up. And wait until you hear the story of the Shiner beer takeover at the South by Southwest festival in Austin, Texas, deliciously brilliant in every sense. This was an intensely authentic conversation because even though I’d never met Cameron, I felt like I had known him forever. That assessment made for an easy exchange between us in that neither had anything to prove, so we just had fun sharing insights and stories. Cameron is a much sought-after creative director and someone I think you’ll find entertaining, fascinating, and inspiring. Cam’s advertising pedigree runs deep, and I can tell that he’s still having fun helping brands grow in an ever-changing media landscape. Cameron’s father helped him navigate upper management, unruly CEOs, and the politics of the Fortune 500 boardroom. Cameron is committed to helping the next generation of creatives navigate the career minefield known as advertising. @iamcameronday #creativity #mentor #advertising #mediocrityrepellent #stories #author #creativemind #books #branding
S5 E2 · Fri, October 18, 2024
Ad Yack: Season 5, Episode 2: Roy Shuler
Roy Shuler Ad Yack Season 5 Today on the podcast, I have the pleasure of speaking with SAG-AFTRA actor and all-around incredible human being, Mr. Roy Shuler. I first met Roy when he was cast in the play To Kill a Mockingbird at the PA Playhouse in Bethlehem. He played the pivotal role of Tom Robinson, a role he credits with helping him decide to leave the Lehigh Valley and return to his roots in New York City roots to pursue bigger acting opportunities. This conversation is filled with life lessons that even the most jaded will find uplifting and encouraging. Roy and I spoke about his life philosophy and how he uses his faith, drive, and unwavering ability to see beyond the obstacles that he may encounter to live in harmony with the opportunities that come his way. Roy and I also discuss the role he landed in a national spot produced for NIKE and the WNBA. Roy shared his experiences with the casting process and a behind-the-scenes peak while filming his role as 'Mr. Earl.' Roy will appear in the upcoming season of The Godfather of Harlem, which is entering its fourth season. Roy has had co-starring roles on Law & Order: SVU, FBI: Most Wanted, background work on SNL, The show ‘Awkwafina Is Nora From Queens’ for Comedy Central, an episode of Murphy Brown with Candice Bergen, and dozens of local and regional ads. Roy and I yak it up on a bunch of interesting topics, including a story he shared about an encounter with an overly aggressive beat cop back in NYC when he was 19. He shares how he used that memory to call upon to help him get into character when he performed as the wrongly accused Tom Robinson in To Kill a Mockingbird. I saw Roy perform in that play, and it left an indelible mark on me. When Roy’s not performing, he enjoys serving as an Elementary School Substitute Teacher, primary at schools in his native Harlem. George Eliot once said that, you're never too old to become who you might have been. Trust me, this episode deserves your time and attention because it's a perfect example of the interviews I like to participate in because Roy's story is worth celebrating. Here is my Ad Yack with Roy Shuler. Facebook: @roy.shuler LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/royshuler Instagram: @royshuler Facebook: @williamchilds LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/wpchilds Instagram: @wpchilds
S5 E1 · Fri, September 20, 2024
Ad Yack: Season 5, Episode 1: Dick Boak
Welcome to Season 5 of Ad Yack, the podcast that explores the minds of creative professionals. I want to thank all the fabulous guests who have agreed to appear on the show over the past four seasons for being so open and vulnerable when sharing their thoughts and insights. Today’s guest will be no stranger to anyone who appreciates music and the exceptional craftsmanship that goes into creating one of the world’s most iconic brands. I’m speaking, of course, about Dick Boak and Martin Guitar. After a chance encounter with C.F. Martin the third, Boak got hired in 1976 as a design draftsman and spent the next 42 years honing his craft. We explored the many creative roles he’s held at Martin to some of the more disastrous jobs he’s attempted to support his bohemian lifestyle prior to joining Martin. Dick Boak is a fantastic artist, musician, guitar builder, woodworker, teacher, illustrator, poet, draftsman, and songwriter. A true renaissance man in every sense of the word and someone who’s work I have admired for a long time.Boak was instrumental in setting up Martin’s Artist Relations Department and conceiving more than one hundred signature guitar collaborations with the top musical talents of our time, such as Johnny Cash, Eric Clapton, Sting, and Mark Knoplfer. Boak shares his musical Mount Rushmore, along with the now infamous story regarding the destruction of an historic Martin on the set of the Quentin Tarantino movie, The Hateful Eight, to the best piece of advice he’s ever received, which he still uses to this day. Boak may be retired from Martin, but as you're about to learn, he's still out there making good art and pursuing his passions. So tune in, and Turn it on because here is my AdYak with Dick Boak. #music #creativity #woodworking #marketing #musician #craftsmanship #passion #guitars #sound
S4 E9 · Fri, May 17, 2024
Ad Yack: Season 4, Episode 9: Brian Wcislo
Today on the podcast, AdYack goes international and talks to Brian Wcislo from his home in Costa Rica. In 2005, Brian co-founded 401 Creative, a Lehigh Valley-based ad agency he formed with his college roommate, Curtis Johnson. The duo found fast success with 401, and Brian was enjoying that success when he noticed that something wasn’t quite right with his body. When multiple doctor visits turned up nothing, a quick Google search indicated he had a candida imbalance that was affecting his personality and his health. It was then that he knew a change was in order. In 2013, 401 Creative was purchased by Weidenhammer Systems, and after his two-year employment agreement expired, Wcislo left for Costa Rica to take a three-week yoga instructor class. That three-week trip ended up lasting three months. Wcislo has found a way to live and work that many of us only dream about. He’s found his joy through his family, his location, his meditation and yoga routines, and the work he’s currently doing for a company called Green Machine. He still may have the occasional off day, but he knows it’s temporary. We talked about what steps anyone can take to achieve a better work/life balance, how he discovered that winning wasn’t the secret to happiness that he thought it would be, and how his life has been completely transformed from the pressure-induced craziness of running an ad agency to one where his family and his health come first. If you’ve ever felt that there has to be more to life than working 12 hours a day, six days a week, burning the candle at both ends, you will want to make some time to listen to this interview. Wcislo has found a way to live the life he’s always wanted, right down to the fact that he used to tell his friends that one day he could see himself living in Costa Rica. This was a fascinating, informative, and deeply personal conversation. Here is my AdYack with Brian Wcislo www.linkedin.com/in/brianwcislo www.instagram.com/b.p.wcislo #yoga #creativity #agency #balance #manifesting #purpose #passion #life Thank you to our sponsor, ASR media.
S4 E8 · Fri, April 26, 2024
Ad Yack: Season 4, Episode 8: Sarah Clark
Alright, Ad Yackers, today, I get to talk to someone whose work I have admired for quite some time. She is not only the owner of an ad agency, but she understands the importance of giving back to the community where she lives and works. She named her agency after an antelope known for being extremely fast, agile, and able to clear tall hurdles that get in their way. I’m talking about Sarah Clark of Kudu Creative. I first met Sarah in 2013 when she was an art director at Mosaic Interactive, a digital agency. We yaked it up on several topics, including client pitch meetings that go sideways, her ability to play three instruments, and her involvement in the Easton Mural Project. I also learned during our conversation that Sarah played three instruments growing up, and we dive into the profound impact music can have on both the player and the listener, as well as her approach to idea generating and how she still makes time to design while running the day to day operations of her agency. I was surprised by her insights about Artificial intelligence when I brought the topic up, We talked about where she sees the technology going and how, if used correctly, it can be a game changer. Before opening her agency, Sarah studied graphic design at Minnesota State University. She worked as a web designer for Flint Communications in Fargo, North Dakota, and was an art director at Mosaic Interactive. She then decided to venture out on her own and open KUDU in September 2014. Sarah loves the many roles she gets to inhabit: agency owner, designer, marketing strategist, Entrepreneur, and, above all, mom to her two sons. Here is my AdYack with Sarah Clark.. https://www.facebook.com/sarah.j.clark.984?mibextid=AEUHqQ Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/kuducreative Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/sarahjc Instagram.com/kuducreative #creativity #branding #leadership #design #art #advertising #marketing #adagency #strategy
S4 E7 · Fri, March 29, 2024
Ad Yack: Season 4, Episode 7: Cheryl Moritz
People like to say ‘never judge a book by it’s cover.’ And my next guest on the podcast is the living embodiment of that phrase. I’m talking about the one and only Cheryl Moritz. If you ever seen her in one of the hundreds of theatrical productions she’s appeared in, you have a good idea what I’m talking about. Or perhaps you seen her dominating the stage, or body surfing the crowd while singing her lungs out in a punk band she’s fronting. I once saw her do an entire American Advertising Awards playing a Russian spy and never broke character through the entire two hours program. Moritz is one of those people who when she commits to something, she goes all in. Trepidation or hesitation are two words that do not apply to her. I’ve got to watch her perform as ‘Columbia’ in ‘The Rocky Horror Picture Show’ as well Cindy Lou Who in Who’s Holiday?, and she’s an acting tour de force. Absolutely fearless. But even with all that energy, sometimes doubt can creep in as artists are notorious for feeling like they're never good enough. We explore that very important topic along with how she stays inspired, how she stays positive how she keeps her wonderment alive. Another of the topics we discussed is the formation of a support group that could meet periodically to share ideas, offer constructive criticism and provide a positive outlet for anyone who works in a creative capacity. This is just a small sample of what we explored during our interview. I loved this conversation because Moritz was so open and vulnerable with her thoughts and answers. Don’t let her quite demeaned fool you. When she steps on a stage, or grabs a microphone you can be sure of thing, you’re about to witness something memorable. Here is my Ad Yack with Cheryl Moritz #creativity #acting #passion #theatre #committed #punkrock #music #intense
S4 E6 · Fri, February 16, 2024
Ad Yack: Season 4, Episode 6: Cat Barnstone
Today on the podcast, I talk with Catherine Barnstone, who’s father had a tremendous impact on me during the time I studied with him at his art school in Coplay, PA. I’m referring to Mr. Myron Barnstone, a master painter before becoming an internationally respected fine arts teacher. Myron sadly passed away in 2016 at the age of 83. Since then, his daughter Cat has been working diligently with a team of art professionals and curators to help ensure Myron’s classical approach to drawing and design will live on through his former students and the instructional material produced before his passing. After Myron put down his brushes and started teaching full-time, Cat was omnipresent and had a front-row seat to Myron’s teachings and lectures. It wasn’t until his passing that Cat took possession of all of her father’s art that, until then, was crated and packed away for over 50 years. Cat tackled the challenge of bringing Myron’s incredible work out of the warehouse and into a newly renovated gallery space that will have its grand opening in April of 2024 in Thurmond, Maryland. I met Cat for the first time at Myron’s 80th birthday celebration. What struck me immediately about Cat was her warm, friendly demeanor and sense of humor. But what’s really impressed me about her is her tenacity and dedication to keeping her father’s legacy alive. I was fortunate to study with Myron; his wisdom has stayed with me and continues to inspire me today. Cat and I talk about her early days helping Myron get his art classes up and running, to the real reason why all of Myron’s art was packed away, with strict instructions to not open them. We also talked in depth about the impact that Myron had on his thousands of students and how many went on to careers in major motion pictures, animation, architecture, interior design, photography, fine art painting, sculpting, and how she’s finding new, and creative ways to showcase her father’s amazing artwork. Cat knows all too well the challenges she has to constantly face head on, but she also refuses to let anything stand in her way of guiding the next generation of artists to find their true path through her father’s teachings. She knew it wouldn’t be easy. But then again, nothing worth doing ever is. Here is my AdYack with Catherine Barnstone. #barnstone #artist #goldensection #abstract #painting #brush #original #genius https://www.facebook.com/catszafran www.instagram.com/fourthwallcat www.instagram.com/barnstonestudios
S4 E5 · Fri, January 19, 2024
Ad Yack: Season 4, Episode 5: Stephen Kroninger
When you think about it, Life is a collage of memories, relationships, emotions, conversations, and all the little moments cut from the experiences that make up your life. Nobody understands that better than today's guest on the podcast. Stephen Kroninger grew up outside of Allentown in the sleepy burb of Orefield, Pennsylvania, and spent his formative years studying commercial art at Lehigh County Vo-Tech. While there, he met a charismatic teacher who was instrumental in helping him understand that an art career was something young Stephen may want to consider. After college, he headed straight for New York City and has never looked back. Stephen is a provocative collage maker and illustrator whose work has appeared in major U.S. and international publications, and he is also the author/illustrator of three award-winning children's books. He's worked with 80's rap group Public Enemy and comedian Chris Rock and his art has graced the cover of TIME magazine on four separate occasions. Kroninger's illustrations have appeared in nearly every major newspaper and magazine in the United States and in many publications worldwide. Kroninger's work was the subject of an exhibit at the Museum of Modern Art in New York City, the only time the museum devoted a one-person show to an illustrator. His artwork can be found in the permanent collections of the Museum of Modern Art, The Library of Congress, and the National Portrait Gallery of the Smithsonian Institute in Washington, D.C., among others. We yak it up on many topics that included his unique creative process, how he allows for 'happy accidents' in his work, and the only advice his father ever gave him that turned out to be life-changing. Here is my AdYack with the incredible Stephen Kroninger. Social Media: https://www.facebook.com/stephen.kroninger http://www.instagram.com/stephenkroninger https://www.stephenkroninger.net/
S4 E4 · Fri, December 15, 2023
Ad Yack: Season 4, Episode 4: Matt Artinger and Patrick Newill
I love meeting people who are super passionate about their craft and the work they do to earn a living. Today, on the podcast, I talk to two individuals who exceed that criteria. Mr. Matt Artinger and Patrick Newill. Matt owns and operates Artinger Guitars based in Emmaus, and he was gracious enough to sit down with me on a Saturday morning and talk about the art of making guitars. Partick works right alongside Matt in his shop, putting his stamp on a line of guitars. Matt brought Patrick in because he saw so much of himself in Patrick and wanted to provide an opportunity to pass the torch to the next generation. Matt freely admitted that Partick inspires him, and the two often collaborate on project brainstorming sessions because Matt understands the effectiveness of what can happen when an idea can leap from brain to brain. Matt has built over 1,000 custom guitars, and he’s not stopping. We yak it up on the importance of trial and error in doing such highly custom work, how ideas can get better when you are open to collaboration, and how they try to build magic into every guitar they make. They are part Zen masters, part scientists, part visionaries, part electrical engineers, and Alchemists. Blending complex components and materials into something that brings joy to millions in the form of music and songs. Matt and Partick are the type of people who love to push the boundaries to go where others may resist. That’s the mark of craftsmanship. As Matt stated in a Popular Mechanics article that featured him, “When it comes to guitars, the proof is in the playing. "As pretty as a guitar looks, it has to perform five times better, "It's not a piece of furniture; it's a functional piece of art.” It was clear from our conversation that these guys love their work. They have found a way to channel their talents and shape them into a career as two of the most sought-after builders of custom guitars of their respective generations. Here is my ad yack with Matt Artinger and Patrick Newill https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-newill-6a7328111/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-artinger-104657/ www.facebook.com/mattartinger www.facebook.com/patricknewill www.instagram.com/newill_guitars
S4 E3 · Fri, November 17, 2023
Ad Yack: Season 4, Episode 3: Katie P. Desiderio and Michael G. Frino
AdYack Season 4 Episode 3 Katie P. Desiderio and Michael G. Frino One of the topics I love to discuss on AdYack is leadership. Today on the podcast, I will explore this topic in depth with best-selling authors Katie Desiderio and Michael Frino. Frino oversees Human Capital Development for a Fortune 500 Company, a Leadership Author, a Performance Researcher, and an Adjunct Professor. Desiderio is an Assistant Vice President of corporate-educational Partnerships, a Tenured Professor of Management at Moravian University, a Partner in Learning, and now a Wall Street Journal Best Selling Author. The duo have co-authored an excellent new book about leadership and transformational growth that looks to BEES for its inspiration. The book is called The BeeKeeper: Pollinating your organization for transformative growth. Katie and Michael sketched out the original concept behind their first book after publishing in academic journals for over a decade since earning their doctorate degrees in Organizational Learning and Leadership. Little did they know then, but 18 days after their pizza box brainstorm, UN World Bee Day was established to protect and preserve our great pollinators who provide growth for all of us. The book uses the story of an inspiring beekeeper and how we all can learn from how bees structure and operate their hives. We talk about organizational structure, how we can all take better care of each other at work, and how big things will happen when we all work towards a common goal. I‘ve read many business books over the years, and this one is at the top of my recommended list. Fun fact: I was introduced to Katie for the first time in May 2017 when she gave a commencement address during my daughter’s graduation from Moravian University. It was while listening to her meaningful words about enjoying the present moment and feeling grateful that I could shift my mood. Even though I was upset about having terrible seats and being soaked from the rain that fell earlier in the day, her impactful words helped me change my mindset. She allowed me to witness and celebrate my daughter’s accomplishments with the proper attitude. To me, that’s why Katie is such a great leader. We talk about that commencement address, the power of positive change, growth mindsets, creativity, and company culture, and how we can all learn what it means to place ourselves at the core of learning and growth for the people in your organization. Prepare to BEE inspired, entertained, and enlightened. Here is my AdYack with Katie Desiderio and Michael Frino. https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-p-desiderio-mba-phd https://www.linkedin.com/in/miichaelgfrino https://www.linked
S4 E2 · Fri, October 20, 2023
Ad Yack: Season 4, Episode 2: Martha DeFeo
S4 | E2: Martha DeFeo There are certain people you will meet throughout your life, and as soon as you meet them, you know they possess an innate ability to transcend and succeed in any environment. Martha DeFeo is one of those people. I briefly worked with Martha at Adams Outdoor Advertising, and I knew, even back then, that she was on a mission. She often encouraged and inspired people to become the best versions of themselves, in both their professional and personal life.She’s a seeker of knowledge, a coach, and a mentor to many of her clients, and she doesn’t give up when she believes in something, influencing others with her perseverence.Her search for meaning and her growth mindset has played a vital role in helping her grow into who she is today. As a Marketing Consultant, Strategist, and Business Development Leader, her background has evolved from marketing & design projects, speaking presentations, content creation, and web design to now running her own agency, MILK Marketing.Martha understands the value of authentic leadership and why you need it for sustainable growth & success. She found her purpose in helping entrepreneurs build and grow their businesses through her mentorship programs and strategic advisory work. She relies on her curiosity, creativity, and confidence every time she meets with potential clients, and we talk about how she helps those leaders embrace their courage and authenticity. Martha is proof positive that you must be willing to fail fast and learn faster if your actions aren’t delivering the desired results.Martha and I yak it up about the transformative power creativity has in changing lives, businesses and collaborative relationships, the lessons we learned working for an inspirational leader, the best piece of advice she’s ever received, and how it continues to inspire her to this day.Here is my AdYack with Martha DeFeoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milkmarketing/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/milkmarketingmuse Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/successdriventribe
S4 E1 · Fri, September 15, 2023
Ad Yack: Season 4, Episode 1: Lee Abrams
Welcome to Season 4 of AdYack. Today on the podcast, I get to interview Mr. Lee Abrams. To say that Lee Abrams is a radio legend would be an understatement. His career has spanned over five decades and shows no signs of slowing down. Lee is credited with developing the album rock radio format, first introduced in the 70s to help stations move away from playing hit singles to more album-oriented rock. While he remains passionate about his past, he's focused on reimagining the future. He consulted over 1,000 radio stations, 12 major print publications, and numerous tv stations and cable networks throughout the country.He's advised bands like Iron Maiden, Yes, The Alan Parsons Project, The Moody Blues, and Bob Seger, among others. Newsweek has listed him as one of their "Top 100 Cultural Elites,” industry publication Radio Ink cited him as one of the 75 most essential radio figures ever. Abrams, served as an internal consultant for ABC Radio and helped develop nationwide radio formats such as Z-Rock andRadio Disney. Lee also co-founded XM satellite radio. I was fortunate enough to work with Lee when he was named the Chief Innovation Officer at Tribune Publishing, which owned The Morning Call Newspaper, and led the effort to inspire change and content innovation at Tribune's print and broadcast divisions.Lee allows the people he works with to expand their comfort zones and is not afraid to support calculated risks when required. Like many visionary creative leaders, he can see past the challenges and find the opportunities that often lie hidden in the obstacles. Lee possesses that rare leadership trait that helps inspire those around him with his words and actions. He's a deep thinker and understands the importance of a growth mindset. He is humble in his approach and with an unwavering desire to help companies re-invent themselves by assisting them to say goodbye to mediocrity.Lee and I yack it up on many topics, including what inspired him to devote his life to music and radio, his love of flying his plane, and his desire never to stop working, growing, and evolving. He's the perfect guest to kick off Season 4. So here is my ad yack with Lee Abrams.
S3 E7 · Fri, June 16, 2023
Ad Yack: Season 3, Episode 7: Kate Hughes
SEASON FINALE! Kate Hughes - AdYack Podcast Season 3, EPISODE 7 Today on the podcast, I get to interview someone who has forged a career out of always putting herself in the best light. Someone who knows the power of the pivot and whose energy is off the charts. You could light a city with the wattage that emanates from her presence.I’m talking of course about Kate Hughes. Kate is one of those people that you only need to meet once to realize that she’s impossible to forget.Kate and I yak it up on a variety of topics that include, the double edge sword of being an over thinker, or how gratitude can be a strong catalyst for change, once you fully embrace it.This interview took place at the end of a very exhausting week for both of us. Kate was undeterred. Even though it would have been easy to reschedule, Kate felt we should forge ahead. Boy, am I glad we did.Kate’s infectious attitude provided enough energy for both of us as I got to experience some of that energy during our AdYack.Our topics ranged the power of personal re-invention to how we could all benefit from a little empathy from time to time.I learned that’s she’s proud of her ability to put an efficient team together and is always ready to engage her creative side when solving life’s challenges.She’s tenacious, passionate about her family and friends and has an intense determination when it comes to getting things done.I was grateful for the time I got to spend talking to Kate. She’s on a mission and she’s not stopping until she gets where she wants to go. And she’ll do it with style, wit and a giant smile on her face.Here is my AdYack with Kate Hughes. Instagram: @ih8kateFacebook: @Kate HughesLinkedIn: Kate Hughes Hashtags: #creativity #passion #marketing #advertising #art #pivot #determined #energy #smart #design #leadership #teamwork #aaf #tenacious
S3 E6 · Fri, May 19, 2023
Ad Yack: Season 3, Episode 6: John Hayes
Today on the podcast, I get to talk to one of the mentors who helped me discover my passion for great creative. John Hayes. John was the GM of Adams Outdoor Advertising when I met him for the first time. The year was 1999 and I was ready for a new challenge. Shortly after that meeting, he offered me an art director position, and I eagerly accepted. Back then, John was restructuring Adams to go all in by using the power of creativity and great design to re-imagine Adams Outdoor as a branding tool, not merely a company that sells ad space on the side of the road. I still remember the day he shared his new vision for the company, and while I didn't know it at the time, I was about to experience a paradigm shift in how I would view advertising, design, and creativity for the rest of my life. John and I talked about the genesis of that idea and how everything started to fall into place once he found the right mix of talented people he believed could help deliver the results he was hoping for. We also talk about his creative leadership, the importance of good messaging, and what it means to be a servant leader. John also shares his approach to helping clients see the big picture by getting them to understand why not taking a risk is actually the biggest risk of all. Even though I only worked at Adams for two years under John’s leadership, his lessons and guidance have stayed with me throughout my career. These days, John is enjoying his retirement after a long career in sales, marketing and advertising. I’m grateful I met John when I did. Our lives intersected at a point where we both needed each other’s unique talents. Like any great outdoor campaign, John’s lessons were simple to comprehend, and his messages had a lasting impact. Here is my AdYack with John Hayes.
S3 E5 · Fri, March 31, 2023
Ad Yack: Season 3, Episode 5: Tina Zaremba
For several years now, I have been experiencing the phenomenon commonly known as serendipity with greater frequency. It's considered an unexpected fortunate discovery. But, it turns out, it happens all the time; you have to be open to experiencing it. The latest serendipitous event for me happened when I opened an email from Tina Zaremba. Her initial message was followed by a meeting over zoom, leading to an invitation to be on AdYack.Tina is a professional voice-over actor based in New York City, where she brings fifteen-plus years of experience and has lent her voice to hundreds of commercials, promos, and corporate videos that include clients such as BNY Mellon, Tide Plus Bleach, Airwick, Pantene, Blue Cross Blue Shield, the United Way, Dunkin' Donuts, and March Of Dimes.In addition to working as an in-demand voice-over talent, Tina loves coaching and mentoring artists by helping them create a blueprint for a career in entertainment/new media by helping them become a 'solo-prenuer.' Tina studied theater at Western Michigan at The Lee Strasberg Theatre Institute, where she received the Sidney Kingsley scholarship.One of the engaging topics we discuss is her work at the New York Film Academy in NYC, teaching artists how to 'flip the script' when it comes to knowing their worth and how to take charge of their artistic careers. We also discuss why coloring inside the lines is not always the best way to live a creative life.When Tina isn't providing her talent to various voice-over work, you can find her venturing around Harlem with her husband, son, and French Bulldog Jojo. This was an intensely personal conversation, and I hope that as you listen to it, you discover something unexpected. Here is my AdYack with Tina Zaremba.
S3 E4 · Fri, February 24, 2023
Ad Yack: Season 3, Episode 4: Charles Stonewall
Charles Stonewall Webster’s dictionary describes an artist as someone with the talent to create art (such as a painting, a sculpture, music, or photography) while using their conscious skill and creative imagination. So with that definition, I would say my next guest is what I would refer to as an artist’s artist. Charles Stonewall is a highly gifted and talented Lehigh valley based artist and photographer who has spent his life looking for the light and capturing it in his stunning images. I met Charles for the first time at The Allentown Art Museum, where his work was being featured, and I felt inspired to have him as a guest here on Ad Yack after viewing one his photos that I found deeply moving. We talk about that photo during the interview. During our initial conversation at the museum, I was also captivated by his willingness to share the stories behind many of his mesmerizing images. Charles Stonewall’s journey began in Easton, PA, where his grandmother gifted him with his first camera, a Praktica, and encouraged him to use it as a source for good. Stonewall’s work has an evocative and ethereal quality to it. His approach when creating is to use his extensive experience to see his subjects in a new light and then work diligently to create both timeless and moving work. Charles and I also discovered rather serendipitously that we both studied with Myron Barnstone. A brilliant artist and art teacher who taught a classical approach to drawing and design here in the Lehigh Valley for over 40 years. Charles explains how great art lives in our ability to be open to new experiences and to infuse those experiences into our everyday lives and work. A chance encounter at an art museum led to the interview you are about to hear. May you find it inspiring, informative, and entertaining. Here is my AdYack with Charles Stonewall. Facebook: @charlesstonewall Instagram: @charlesstonewallphotographer https://www.allentownartmuseum.org/charles-stonewall/ #photographer #creativity #light #photos #passion #camera #artist #lens #fineartphotographer #blackandwhite #magichour #art
S3 E3 · Fri, January 20, 2023
Ad Yack: Season 3, Episode 3: Eddy Herty
Today on the podcast, I have someone who I have wanted to talk to for quite some time, and thankfully our schedules finally aligned. OutFront Studio’s National Creative Director, Eddy Herty. Eddy is highly respected in the advertising industry and is a frequent guest speaker at industry-leading events, including Outdoor Advertising Association Of America, The Infinity Film Festival, HOW Design Live, and The NY Ad Club. He’s also been a Judge for the ADDY Awards, the OAAA OBIE awards, The One Show, and The Clios. Herty has dedicated his career to helping businesses leverage the selling power of Out of Home, dynamic creative execution, and establishing a client-first environment at Outfront. As a result, Eddy and his team are changing the perception of Out-of-Home one billboard at a time that cuts through mediocrity using the world’s oldest advertising medium. We yak it up on many topics that include best practices when presenting big ideas, hand-painted vinyl vs. digital printing. How the pandemic saw outdoor’s visibility increase, to the process, he uses to uncover a brand’s truth. He also shares how he inspires the 50-person design team at OutFront. Eddy also tells the story of how he evolved from not understanding the power of outdoor when he was a young designer to today leading Outfront studios to new creative heights. Herty and his team are doing impressive work that’s helping clients re-invent themselves in an ever-changing media landscape through the power of great design and messaging. Herty believes outdoor is the one medium that screams to thousands and whispers to one. Here is my AdYack, with Eddy Herty. LinkedIn Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Instagram Thank YOU to our sponsor, ASR media.
S3 E2 · Fri, October 28, 2022
S3 E2 - Jason Tselentis - AdYack: Season 3 Episode 2
Jason Tselentis is one of those people you only have to know for about 5 seconds before you realize that, one, he’s a very chill, down-to-earth, easy-going guy, and two, he loves his pugs, Alien & Predator. Spend a little more time with him, and you’ll realize he is also very talented, and I am thrilled to have him on the podcast. Jason is a visual communication design and typography professor at Winthrop University’s Department of Design in Rock Hill, South Carolina. He’s written about design and visual culture for Arcade, Eye, Mental Floss, Open Manifesto, and HOW magazines, as well as Print, where he served as a contributing editor. Jason has four books on design and typography principles and design history to his credit. He contributed to The Phaidon Archive of Graphic Design and co-authored Typography Referenced, named to the 2013 Outstanding Reference Sources List by the American Library Association’s Reference & User Services Association. His book Type, Form & Function explores type design and typography fundamentals, and The Graphic Designer’s Electronic-Media Manual covers web design principles. I met Jason for the first time when we were both judges for the American Advertising Federation’s ADDY awards in Albany, New York, and I immediately liked him. When he’s not engulfed in brand, graphic, type, and web design, he stays up late wondering what three wishes he would ask for if a genie visited him. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t? He loves comic books, literature, film, humor, horror, sci-fi, and pugs, although not necessarily in that order. In his free time, Jason enjoys hanging out with his family while wearing comfortable and sporty clothing, which some call sweatpants. He loves comic books, literature, film, humor, horror, sci-fi, and pugs, although not necessarily in that order. We yack it up about his love of typography, graphic design, the need for kerning, and our mutual love for character actor Charles Grodin. Here is our Ad Yack with Jason Tselentis.
S3 E1 · Fri, September 30, 2022
S3 E1 - Crystal Durant - AdYack: Season 3 Episode 1
Welcome back to ad yack. Season 3. It’s nice to be back because I wanted to amp things up a little with the first episode of season three, and I’m happy to say, that my first guest of the hits all the right notes. Crystal Durant is a very talented NYC based Graphic Designer, DJ, Singer, Rock Show Producer, Sound Designer for Broadway, Podcaster, Metalsmith, Printmaker, Art Educator, Pop Culture Demolition Specialist, Storyteller, Photographer, and Activist. As her mom used to say, she’s a “very multifaceted Crystal”! She earned an Associates Degree in Specialized Technology/Visual Communication/Photography at the Art Institute of Philadelphia, and a BFA in Metal smithing along with her Art Ed Degree/Certification (K-12 & College) from The University of The Arts. She taught Visual Art in the NYC Department of Education for over 20 years. For the last 6 years, she was a featured singer in NYC’s longest running Rock and Roll tribute show called “F*BOMB”, and has her own Who tribute band called “These Kids Are Alright” and a very popular Prince tribute band called “Pills, Thrills, and Daffodils” She has also performed in a Soundgarden tribute, and with a host of NYC legends. For the last 7 years she’s been a Professional Muse at The Art Students League of New York where she is one of their featured models. Her face and figure have been sketched, drawn, painted, and sculpted thousands of times. There are a few portraits of her in their permanent collection! She’s currently writing an autobiography about her life as a Muse, and wants to turn it into a tv show! Trust me; this lady’s talents know no bounds. Crystal and I were classmates in a Commercial Art class in the early eighties at Lehigh County Vocational Technical school - and even back then, I knew she was destined for bigger things. She’s made her life a work of art. I was fortunate enough to be able to get her to sit down with me and talk about her early design career in Los Angeles - where she was in the Art Department at the world famous Tower Records on Sunset Boulevard (where she had crazy experiences with Prince, David Lee Roth, Tom Jones, Michael Jackson, Christopher Lee and other stars), and what she learned about teaching art to kids in underserved schools in NYC. Crystal also shares an embarrassingly funny story about what happened on my first visit to New York City during a high school class trip, where I had a “Larry David”/George Costanza/Seinfeld meltdown inside a restaurant over the price of orange juice. This was a fun conversation to have and one that I know you will find entertaining and inspiring. So here’s my Ad Yak with Crystal Durant!
S2 E4 · Fri, May 27, 2022
S2 E4 - Tony Vengrove - AdYack: Season 2 Episode 4
Tony is a marketing and innovation veteran with over 25 years of experience driving innovation at two of New York City's global ad agencies, Grey Advertising and Saatchi & Saatchi. Tony experienced daily exactly how creativity gets used to drive everything from client pitches, brand strategies, messaging, design, and media placement. But on the other hand, he also witnessed how easy it was for anyone to kill a transformative idea, which led him to do a thought provoking TED Talk titled, 'Give Ideas a Chance.' During his agency years, he’s worked with some incredible brands, like Pepperidge Farms, Ultra Slim Fast, and "Tough Actin'" Tinactin, along with Litchfield Distillery and Create-a-Castle, a 2020 ‘Toy Of The Year’ award winner that allows anyone to build amazing sand castles in minutes. Continuing his creative journey, he formed Miles Finch Innovation, a marketing and innovation consultancy, where he is a sought-after advisor for marketing and strategy advice for businesses and non-profits across multiple industries. Our conversation with Tony revealed a deep working knowledge and zen-like comprehension of how creativity works and why it matters. Tony and I yak it up on topics ranging from how business leaders must better manage their creative teams to his keen understanding of how to set up a creative culture inside a business. Tony’s a deep thinker, an explorer, and a dreamer and as you'll learn after listening to our conversation. So here is our Ad Yack with Tony Vengrove. Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyvengrove/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/tony.vengrove Twitter: @Tony_Vengrove milesfinchinnovation.com
S2 E3 · Fri, April 22, 2022
S02 E03 - Jen Borror- AdYack: Season 2 - Episode 3
Jen Borror is the owner/operator of Hoot Design Studio in York, Pennsylvania and is an award-winning illustrator and graphic designer. She’s worked in the design and marketing industry since 2004. Before her father’s passing in 2019, she felt inspired when he told her, “Life is short, Jenny, do what you love now while you have the time.” She took her father’s advice to heart and opened Hoot Design Studio to focus on her passion and love of pen and ink illustration and graphic design. In this episode of Ad Yack, You’ll learn why’s she’s glad she didn’t listen to the naysayers who told her to pick another line of work, and she shares her story on how she was able to make the leap from employee to entrepreneur and why if you’re going to fail at something, it better be at doing something you love. Her beautiful illustrations can be found on stationery & cards at PAPYRUS and American Greetings, Beer can labels at Monument City Brewing, Brewing Company, moonshine labels for Bald Hills Distillery, MudHen Brewing Company, and her illustrations have been used in children’s books, fabric, wallpaper, pillows, stickers & more! Jen is an eternal ‘hoptimist’ and I’m grateful to her for taking the time to share her insights with me. So, Here’s my AdYack…with Jen Borror. Links: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/hootdesignstudio/ Website: https://www.hootdesignstudio.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCOeV7r4TO1xzsP8HjEe8Spw Behance: https://www.behance.net/hootdesignstudio Twitter: https://twitter.com/Hoot_Design
S2 E2 · Fri, March 18, 2022
S02 E02 - David Hoffeld - AdYack: Season 2 - Episode 2
This episode's guest is David Hoffeld. David is the CEO and chief sales trainer of Hoffeld group and is the author of the groundbreaking book the science of selling, and has a brand new book coming out in March. Sell More with Science , David and I yack it up on a bunch of interesting topics that include knowing the difference between persuasion and manipulation, how to get out of a sales slump, how to use social proof and your presentations, and why salespeople need to focus on the buying process, not the selling process. We also talk about why he believes your personal life and your business life are linked. Because of the results David's insights generate, he's lectured at Harvard Business School, has been featured in Fast Company fortune, US News and World Report. The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, Harvard Business Review, CBS Radio, Fox News, radio and more. This guy really knows his stuff. And he was gracious enough to take the time to share his insights and knowledge with me on ad Yak. Thank YOU to our sponsors, ASR media, and Lehigh Valley with Love.
S2 E1 · Mon, February 07, 2022
Peter Stevenson - AdYack: Season 2 - Episode 1
If the Lehigh Valley had a Hall of Fame for creatives, my next guest would absolutely be in it. We're talking about Peter Stevenson. Peter is a fine artist, Creative Director, and illustrator. His illustrations have been featured in The Washington Post The Washington book review, the Wall Street Journal, and his work has been commissioned by clients that included at&t communications Crayola, Earl Palmer-Brown, Citibank, and J. Walter Thompson. Stephenson spent decades working in advertising first as an art director than a creative director for leading agencies and corporations, such as at&t, Aramark, corporation, Mehra, advertising, and Stigler, Wells and Brunswick eventually found the Stevenson group in Easton. His work is smart, unconventional, and possesses raw, creative energy that allows it to stand out, which would explain why he's won so many awards over the years. Peter is not only an exceptional artist and marketer but also approachable and humble. His belief is that great work happens when you refuse to be mediocre. His early involvement in the Greater Lehigh Valley ad club and having a bunch of kids on a school bus inspired an award-winning campaign for Crayola.
loading...