Contrary to Popular Opinion

Todd and Kelly dive into the complexities of AdTech, peeling back the layers of hype and exploring the reality of its applications in digital advertising. They dissect the promises versus the pitfalls of AdTech, from AI-powered tools to data recovery in a privacy-first landscape. With a candid look at what works, what doesn’t, and why passion and curiosity are essential for successful AdTech imple...

In this rewind episode, Todd and Kelly revisit some of the most compelling discussions around the role of AI in marketing. They explore whether AI is genuinely transforming the industry or if it’s overhyped, addressing its ability to streamline tasks, analyze complex data, and enhance decision-making. They critically examine how AI can impact media planning and discuss the balance between automati...

In this week's episode, we dive into the transformative power of AI-driven marketing insights with Beatrice Ellington of Keen Decision Systems. Discover how advanced marketing / media mix modeling is helping businesses make smarter, data-driven decisions. Beatrice shares how emerging brands and agencies alike are optimizing marketing budgets, driving long-term brand equity, and uncovering growth o...

In this episode, we explore the tough decisions that marketing leaders face when choosing agency partners and balancing media strategies with performance expectations. We dive into the intricacies of building strong client-agency relationships, navigating the cost-value equation, and determining whether to keep marketing functions in-house or with external agencies. Packed with insights and practi...

In this episode, Todd and Kelly sit down with Karen Kelly, former head of marketing for UPS, where she spent over 22 years managing multi-million-dollar marketing efforts. Karen shares her insights on building lasting, collaborative relationships with agencies, stressing the importance of clear communication and proactive engagement to drive business results. She delves into the challenges of navi...

Stu Haack, head of direct-to-consumer e-commerce at HOP WTR, shares the challenges and opportunities of building a brand that succeeds in both the e-commerce and retail markets. From managing the balance between DTC growth and mass retail distribution to creating social proof and brand loyalty in the competitive non-alcoholic beverage space, Stu offers actionable insights drawn from his extensive...

In this week's episode, Kelly and Todd explore the agency pitch process, addressing why the current RFP approach often falls short for decision-makers like CMOs and brand managers. They emphasize the importance of selecting agencies based on long-term strategic thinking rather than surface-level presentations or buzzwords like “proprietary tools or processes.” The conversation highlights how brand...

In this week's episode, David Berkowitz, founder of the AI Marketers Guild, dives into the complexities of AI’s role in marketing from research to creative and beyond. He shares his journey from agency life to building a community that empowers marketers to leverage AI effectively. David explores the balance between innovation and practicality, offering real-world examples of AI-driven success whi...

In this episode, we dive into the transformative potential of AI within the marketing and ad agency space. Jill Randell, with her extensive experience at Google, Twitter, and now as co-founder of a stealth AI startup, shares her insights on how agencies can harness AI to not only improve efficiency but also enhance the value they deliver to clients. We explore the challenges and opportunities of A...

Juhi Pikale, a seasoned marketing expert, dives into the intricacies of performance marketing and agency relationships.  With a background in managing nearly a billion dollars across high-profile brands like Fabletics, Juhi shares her profound insights on optimizing marketing budgets, the significance of agency selection, and the evolving dynamics between brands and marketing agencies. ...

In this episode, Todd and Kelly explore cultural relevancy in relation to marketing, advertising, and branding. How do you balance consumer perception with cause marketing like sustainability for example, while ensuring you stay true to your brand and brand promise? Enjoy the discussion as they explore the risks and rewards of being seen as culturally relevant. From the Olympics to navigating mark...

In this episode, Kelly Maguire and Todd Juneau, co-founders of Vuja Dé Digital; dive deep into the complexities of agency compensation models. They discuss hidden costs and practices that are sometimes used without the marketer's awareness, within the media buying industry. They discuss the importance of fair compensation, transparency, and how to ensure you're getting the value you pay for in adv...

In this week's episode, Todd Juneau and Kelly Maguire, co-founders of Vuja Dé Digital, dive into a compelling discussion about the evolving relationship between CMOs, marketing teams and agencies. Sparked by a thought-provoking industry article from a current CMO, they explore the pros and cons of moving marketing efforts in-house versus using the right external agency. They dissect the pros and c...

In this episode, Todd and Kelly dive into the intricate steps involved in capturing consumer attention with strategic media planning and buying. They explore the nuanced differences between being a partner versus a service provider. They emphasize the importance of critical thinking and strategic planning to capture consumer attention. They discuss how one of the primary goals of media is to secur...

In this episode, Todd and Kelly discuss the complex world of achieving marketing results with limited budgets. They discuss the challenges and solutions for brands with big ambitions but constrained budgets. Todd and Kelly provide guidance on how to maximize impact without breaking the bank. They explain the importance of setting realistic expectations, leveraging unique opportunities, and maintai...

In this episode, Kelly and Todd discuss the balance between short-term sales and long-term brand building. They address the challenges many businesses face in prioritizing immediate revenue over establishing a strong, lasting brand presence. Kelly and Todd talk about the pitfalls of relying solely on quick sales tactics and the importance of developing a solid brand foundation. Their conversation...

Kelly Maguire and Todd Juneau, co-founders of Vuja Dé Digital, dive into the complex world of agency-client dynamics. In this episode, they put particular focus on what really happens behind the scenes with marketing campaigns. They discuss the often glossed-over reality of campaign performance auditing, the pitfalls of agency complacency, and the essential questions CMOs need to ask to figure out...

Kelly and Todd explore the significant shift in digital advertising as third-party cookie tracking faces extinction. They discuss how this change impacts data privacy and the strategies brands need to adopt to stay ahead. The conversation goes into the misconceptions about the end of cookies and how more sophisticated tracking methods are emerging. They also talk about the rise of AI and first-par...

Kelly Maguire and Todd Juneau share their journey co-founding Vuja Dé Digital, and celebrate their recent recognition on the Inc. Best Workplaces list for 2024. Kelly and Todd talk about the importance of trust within a company, how it shapes relationships among employees, and impacts overall management practices. They reflect on their 15-year partnership, the evolution of their business philosoph...

In this week's episode, Todd and Kelly have a debate about the actual impact of AI tools on digital marketing and agency efficiency. They challenge the belief that AI can streamline processes and reduce costs, telling us about a more complex reality. While AI can improve data analysis and creative options, it often increases workload and demands additional training and expanded expertise. Todd and...

Traci Warren, Head of Direct to Consumer at Oobli, discusses the company's approach to introducing sweet proteins in consumer food products, aiming to significantly alter consumer diets. Traci shares insights from her extensive background in marketing at leading tech, retail and fashion companies and how these experiences have shaped her strategies in a fast-paced startup environment. She addresse...

Todd and Kelly explore the world of digital advertising, discussing the delicate balance between personalization and privacy. They address the complex dynamics of how ads shape our online experiences, arguing that well-crafted personalized ads can greatly enhance our digital lives rather than intrude on them. As they dissect the evolving landscape of digital marketing, especially in the face of in...

Liz Allen, a seasoned marketing expert with a remarkable background in transforming major brands, shares her comprehensive approach to fostering successful client-agency relationships. Liz highlights the significance of trust, transparency, and mutual respect, as she discusses the intricacies of selecting the right agency, the importance of shared values, and the art of collaboration that drives m...

In this inaugural episode of "Contrary to Popular Opinion," co-founders Todd Juneau and Kelly Maguire of Vuja Dé Digital embark on a mission to challenge conventional digital marketing wisdom. Through a rich discussion, they dissect the evolution of programmatic technology, its impact on media buying, and the pivotal role of AI in shaping the industry's future. They boldly critique the traditional...

Welcome to Contrary to Popular Opinion, where every episode is a deep dive into leadership, business, and marketing. Join co-founders Todd Juneau and Kelly Maguire of Vuja De Digital as they explore provocative topics with fresh insights. Listen in as they discuss everything from the importance of strong relationships in marketing to the real value of the internet and the myths of digital ads. Tod...