Shows
SUM Disruptors PodcastBuilding a Brand That Doesn’t Taste Like Everyone Else’s with Dana HorkIn this episode of Disruptors, host Mack McKelvey sits down with Dana Hork, founder and CEO of Beers with Friends, a refreshingly different agency built on sprint-based brand building. Recorded live from the Possible Conference in Miami, Dana shares how her experience as a brand-side marketer at Jet.com, Walmart, and Wonder helped shape an entirely new model for solving creative problems—fast. Dana breaks down the “beer run” model: five-day ideation sprints designed to deliver creative firepower without the drag of traditional agency engagements. From productizing services on Shopify to creating frameworks like “Brand in a Can,” Da...2025-06-0943 min
SUM Disruptors PodcastStartup Communications for Breakthrough Technology with Jake GoldmanIn this episode of SUM Disruptors, host Mack McKelvey sits down with Jake Goldman, VP of Communications and Public Affairs at Beta Technologies, to explore the intricate world of communications strategy for revolutionary technology startups. Jake shares his journey from political communications to leading PR efforts for an innovative electric aircraft company that's transforming the aviation industry. Episode Highlights: From Politics to Aviation: Jake details his career trajectory from New York City politics and working with Mike Bloomberg to Vice Media, and ultimately to Beta Technologies, where he's helping build the future of sustainable flight.2025-05-0652 min
SUM Disruptors PodcastCMO Insights: Effective B2B Marketing with Sabra Jan WillnerIn this episode of the SUM Disruptors podcast, host Mack McKelvey speaks with marketing executive Sabra Jan Willner about navigating the rapidly changing world of B2B marketing. With experience spanning from agencies like Ogilvy to tech giants like Lenovo and startups of various stages, Sabra shares practical insights on several key marketing topics: The strategic importance of customer advisory councils in gathering authentic feedback, building relationships, and generating valuable content Why B2B companies should consider brand mascots to stand out in crowded markets The evolving role of BDRs (Business Development Representatives...2025-04-0949 min
SUM Disruptors PodcastBuilding a Strategic Go-to-Market Engine with Genean JonesIn this episode of Some Disruptors, hosts Mack McKelvey and Heidi Kiele welcome marketing expert Genean Jones to explore the critical role of strategic go-to-market approaches in driving sustainable business growth. With extensive experience across enterprises like Nextel, Sprint, AOL, and Comcast, as well as startups, Genean shares insights on transforming marketing from a cost center to a revenue-driving powerhouse. Episode Highlights: How modern go-to-market strategies require collaboration between marketing, sales, product, and customer success to drive sustainable growth The evolving relationship between marketing and sales, including the controversial debate about where SDRs...2025-03-2538 min
SUM Disruptors PodcastA Non-Marketer's Journey into B2B Marketing SuccessIn this enlightening episode of SUM Disruptors, hosts Mack McKelvey and Heidi “HK” Keele sit down with Wade Prince, Chief Market Intelligence Officer at The Gormley Group, to discuss his unexpected journey into marketing within the government contracting space. As a non-marketer by trade who found himself responsible for his company's marketing strategy, Wade shares his candid experience transitioning from having virtually no marketing presence (just 27 LinkedIn followers!) to implementing a successful program that's driving real business results. Highlights: Wade's honest account of building a marketing program from scratch with limited knowledge and resources H...2025-03-1144 min
Insider Interviews with E.B. MossBlueprints for Startup Success from CEO Mack McKelveyMack McKelvey, Founder and CEO of SalientMG, joins me to explain why “being uncomfortable” has been a great recipe for success throughout her award-winning career in tech and marketing.
With remarkable candor, Mack reveals how disruption propelled her from big tech brands like Lucent, Verisign, and British Telecom to the startup world, where she mastered being an “intrapreneur” before launching her own ventures.
While I almost give away what my initials (E.B.) stand for, Mack shares the fun but sobering story behind her own name change—and a realization about “what’s in a name.” It defi...2025-03-1100 min
SUM Disruptors PodcastBuilding Digital Experiences: Strategy, Design, and Client RelationshipsIn this episode of SUM Disruptors, hosts Mack McKelvey and Heidi "HK" Keele join Michael Verez Mora, founder and CEO of Yellow Lion, for an insightful discussion about modern web development and digital brand experiences. Michael shares candid perspectives on what makes client-agency relationships work, why WordPress still dominates the CMS landscape, and how to navigate the delicate balance between creative vision and client needs. The conversation explores crucial questions like how often companies should refresh their websites, the role of SEO in web development, and why startups often play it too safe with their digital presence. ...2025-02-251h 02
SUM Disruptors PodcastBuilding a Marketing Career around Your Strengths with Heidi KeeleSUM Disruptors co-host, Heidi Keele, joined the podcast from the other side of the table this week. She sat down with Mack McKelvey for a candid conversation about how her strengths and passions have shaped her career. By being true to herself she’s been able to navigate challenges throughout her journey while doing incredible, fulfilling work as a marketer and entrepreneur. Whether you are new to marketing, or shaping the latter half of your career, this episode is a great listen. Heidi is also a prominent voice and trusted expert in the Startup Marketerer community. Learn mor...2025-01-0858 min
Pretty Lies And AlibisCase Updates: Luigi Mangione, Rex Heuermann, Billy Wagner, & DiddyLuigi Mangione indicted in NY, may agree to extradition Rex Heuermann, the suspected Long Island Serial Killer, charged in 7th murder - Valerie Mack Billy Wagner issues before OH supreme court & court of appeals Diddy's drug mule off the hook & Diddy denied evidentiary hearing in Cassie beating video leak Donate: PayPal - prettyliesandalibis@gmail.com Venmo - @prettyliesalibisBuy Me A Coffee - https://www.buymeacoffee.com/prettyliesrCash App- PrettyliesandalibisAll links: https://linktr.ee/prettyliesandalibisMerch: prettyliesandalibis.myshopify.comPatreon: https...2024-12-1809 min
SUM Disruptors PodcastBuilding Brands From Within: The Power of Authentic Storytelling with Brian O'ShaughnessyThis week, Mack and Heidi sit down with Brian O'Shaughnessy, a seasoned storyteller with 20++ years of experience in the tech and media industries, having worked with giants like Google, Skype, and Hims & Hers. Brian shares his approach to branding and why storytelling is just as much as the product itself. For him, the best brands are built from within—turning employees into “apostles” who understand and believe in the company’s mission. After all, if your team believes in the story, it’s far easier to tell it authentically to the world. While many brand...2024-12-181h 01
SUM Disruptors PodcastTurn Up The Heat Without Breaking a Sweat with Jeff CurryIn this episode of the SUM Disruptors Podcast, hosts Mack McKelvey and Heidi Keele chat with award-winning CMO Jeff Curry, a visionary leader behind some of the world’s most iconic brands, including Jaguar, Ferrari, and Lucid Motors. From revitalizing legacy brands to thriving in the fast-paced world of startups, Jeff’s career is a masterclass in creativity, resilience, and storytelling. With warmth and wit, Jeff opens up about: Launching Lucid Motors during a pandemic. The secret sauce behind scrappy, high-performing teams. Why embracing ambiguity is the ultimate startup supe...2024-12-101h 01
SUM Disruptors PodcastSpicy Marketing With Kiana PirouzIn this episode of the SUM Disruptors Podcast, creative growth strategist Kiana Pirouz shares her journey from established brands like Google to emerging startups like We Are Rosie, and her secret sauce for taking a bootstrapped startup from unknown to industry darling (and acquisition). Kiana opens up about the unique challenges and rewards of startup marketing, why she left a job she loved, and the importance of galvanizing both your team and customer base. Learn about the power of personal branding, values-driven leadership, and building a community that fuels organic growth. Kiana’s advice for st...2024-11-141h 04
idk with kayEmpowering Marketers: How Mack McKelvey’s The StartUp Marketer is Transforming CareerIn this episode, The Kay Prince sits down with Mack McKelvey, CEO & Founder of SalientMG, to explore the unique challenges and opportunities in the world of startup marketing. Mack shares insights from her 20+ years of experience leading transformative marketing strategies for high-growth companies and dives into the creation of Startup Marketer—an ecosystem designed to support marketers at every stage of their careers.
Together, they discuss the power of community, the importance of investing in rising talent, and how today’s rapidly changing landscape demands agility and innovation. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just starting out, Ma...2024-10-3131 min
SUM Disruptors PodcastCracking the Event Code with Beth PyneIn this episode of the SUM Disruptors Podcast, co-hosts Mack McKelvey and HK explore the ins and outs of event marketing with Beth Pyne, VP of Marketing at SalientMG. With over 15 years of experience working at both growth-stage startups and industry giants like Yahoo!, Beth shares her tips for selecting, planning, and maximizing events for every budget. Are trade shows still worth it? (It depends!) Are events measureable? (Absolutely!) Who’s the best booth partner? (Solutions engineers, hands down!) Beth tackles these questions and more, sharing key strategies for tracking ROI, collaborating effectively with sales, and implementing cre...2024-10-1554 min
SUM Disruptors PodcastFrom Sprinkle to the Stove: The Art of Campaign OptimizationIn this episode of the SUM Disruptors Podcast, hosts Mack and HK chat with Alexander Stonehouse, Marketing Director at Forj and board advisor for StartUp Marketer. As a 3x startup marketer, Alexander highlights the stark contrasts between marketing at large, established institutions like the Washington Post—where approvals can take months—and the fast-paced world of startups, where optimizations happen daily. The discussion centers on effective budgeting strategies for startups at every stage, highlighting the importance of building scalable, repeatable campaigns while transparently owning the outcomes. The trio also explores the intricate balance between the art...2024-10-0856 min
SUM Disruptors PodcastThe Startup CMO Playbook: Making Music Out of the MadnessIn this episode of the SUM Disruptors Podcast, hosts Mack and Heidi sit down with 3x startup CMO Miriam Kendall to explore that coveted CMO role and the tough realities of startup life. Discover why Miriam left Under Armour for the startup world and why she hasn’t looked back since. With 20 years under her belt, Miriam shares her strategies for breaking down silos, managing founder expectations, and putting the people first. Aspiring CMOs will gain insights into the essential skills needed for success, how to navigate the inevitable burn and churn, what to focus on from da...2024-10-0152 minSUM Disruptors PodcastBehind the Buzz: From Stealth to Spotlight with Molly O’ConnorIn this episode, Mack and Heidi sit down with Molly O’Connor, Director of Communications and Content at Aescape, a groundbreaking robotics massage company. Molly pulls back the curtain on Aescape’s highly successful launch from stealth mode, detailing how she secured high-profile media coverage in Wired, The New York Times, Forbes, Fast Company, Morning Brew, Mashable, Travel Weekly, PopSci, CNBC, Vogue, and more — all within a short time of joining the company. She breaks down the key ingredients for generating media buzz, the importance of humanizing PR in an AI-driven world, and how she master...2024-09-2456 min
SUM Disruptors PodcastThe Martial Art of Marketing: Grit, Growth & Strategy with Jessica BaumIn this episode, Mack and Heidi sit down with Jessica Baum, Chief Marketing Officer at BERA (part of The Harris Poll, a Stagwell company) to unpack her 20-year career from secretary to CMO—a rise driven by grit, resilience, and a roll-up-her-sleeves attitude. The trio discuss the critical – and often misaligned – relationship between marketing, product, and sales, and why product marketing sits at the center of it all. “Companies that have a really strong relationships across all of the core functions will be just unstoppable,” Jessica explains. Tune in to learn how Jessica breaks down silos, tak...2024-09-1746 min
SUM Disruptors PodcastBright Lights, Bold Moves: Lessons Learned from the TopIn Episode 2 of the SUM Disruptors Podcast, Mack and Heidi sit down with Peter Sloterdyk, a global marketing leader with a proven track record at Netflix, Grindr, and Koala. Peter pulls back the curtain on startup marketing, sharing candid insights about working with founders, navigating tough conversations, hiring top talent, and learning when to listen. From hiring 86 people in six months to leading a company’s digital transformation from halfway around the world during the height of the pandemic, Peter explains how to break through, build trust, and show up with bravery. Tune in to he...2024-09-1059 min
SUM Disruptors PodcastSetting the Stage – The Vision Behind SUM DisruptorsIn the first episode of SUM Disruptors Podcast, co-hosts Mack McKelvey and Heidi Keele discuss the inspiration behind the show, exploring the world of startup marketing and the disruptive marketers behind the scenes. This episode sets the tone for the season, offering a glimpse into the unfiltered, real-world conversations you can expect. This season, Mack and Heidi will dive into topics like the varied roles within marketing; industry myths, misunderstandings, and classic traps; the critical intersection of marketing and sales; the art of launch; and how to ask the tough questions in big rooms. There’s no on...2024-09-0349 min
Choose Life RadioMitch McKelvey & Greg MackAbortion: The Case for Life: an amazing book written by two men who simply wanted to state the obvious! The gift of Life is too valuable to make the choice to end the life of an unborn child. Listen with me as we talk, again, about their desire to share a very appropriate option to abortion. And this time, we hear a lot from Mitch. :-)2024-04-1126 minidk with kayFrom Startups to Super Bowls: Gen Z Influence in Today's Marketing LandscapeIn this episode, we delve into the fascinating world of startup marketing and the rising influence of Gen Z. Join host Kay Prince as she sits down with marketing expert Mack McKelvey to explore why Gen Z is becoming the primary audience for startups, even in the ever-evolving landscape of marketing.
As Gen Z enters the workforce and gains purchasing power, startups are realizing the importance of understanding and engaging with this demographic. Mack McKelvey shares valuable insights into the unique characteristics of Gen Z consumers and how startups can effectively target and connect with them through...2024-02-0824 min
Choose Life RadioGreg MackTwo men took time away from their work to write a "Booklet" about LIFE titled Abortion: The Case For Life--Clarity for the Christian. Greg Mack spoke on Choose Life Radio for the two of them, but for sure, these two warriors for LIFE wrote something we can share with anyone considering an abortion. Check out Abortion: The Case For Life by Mitch McKelvey and Greg Mack. And then stock your shelves so you have something easy to understand, valuable to hear and worth the "voices" of all the innocent aborted children. 2023-11-3026 min
The ChangeupMack McKelvey, Founder & CEO at SalientMGThis week's episode is with the Founder and CEO of SalientMG, Mack McKelvey.SalientMG is a strategic marketing firm, focused on accelerating market position for growth stage tech companies. We talk about leveraging digital tools to better share your skill set, why being a Chief of Staff is the ultimate pipeline to becoming a CEO, and the discrepancy she sees in how founders are able to raise money. 2022-09-2751 min