Learnings from Leaders: the P&G Alumni Podcast (P&G Alumni Network)

“We’re going to need leaders with the aptitude, flexibility and agility to face challenges we don’t know exist yet.”

Tom Kuhn is the Vice President, Marketing for The PGA Tour, where he is responsible for the lead marketing and media strategy for their global portfolio of professional golf brands. Prior to his time at The Tour, Tom spent 16 years at Procter & Gamble in a variety of roles, including brand management on Vicks, Metamucil, and Align. Tom started his career in IT, working across Manufacturing, Marketing, and Research & Development. Tom earned his degree in Mechanical Engineering from Bucknell University, his MBA from Georgia Institute of Technology, and is married with three children in Ponte Verda Beach, FL. In a candid conversation about balancing what you think you want with adapting to the moment, you’ll enjoy hearing his authentic takes on his life and career - in a world that is constantly changing.

“When you take care of yourself, you are much more able to lead, to be more creative, more empathetic.”

Arianna Huffington is Founder & CEO of Thrive Global, a firm centered on health and wellness information. Arianna was also the Co-founder of The Huffington Post, the author of fifteen books, one of TIME’s “100 Most Influential People,” and Forbes “Most Powerful Women,” among numerous other honors. In 2011, AOL acquired The Huffington Post for $315 million, where Arianna became President & Editor-in-chief of The Huffington Post Media Group, which included The Huffington Post, AOL Music, Engadget, Patch Media, and StyleList — where she served until 2016. Arianna currently serves on numerous boards, including Uber, Onex, and Global Citizen. Arianna’s last two books, Thrive: The Third Metric to Redefining Success and Creating a Life of Well-Being, Wisdom, and Wonder and The Sleep Revolution: Transforming Your Life, One Night at a Time were both instant international bestsellers.

At the 2021 P&G Alumni Network Global Conference, Arianna sat down with Debbie Majoras, P&G’s Chief Legal Officer & Secretary, for a candid conversation on “How To Thrive.” The two discussed our once-in-a-generation opportunity to redefine the way we work and live — the necessary mindshift that employee well-being drives peak performance - which builds sustainable standards of excellence.

“I was speaking up to respected people in the industry and telling them they were wrong. But we were getting the story right.”

Geraldine Moriba’s a 5-time Emmy Award winning journalist, filmmaker, and advocate — the host and executive producer of “Sounds Like Hate,” a podcast by the Southern Poverty Law Center - documenting how American extremists become radicalized and how some of them change. Geraldine’s also SVP of of news and entertainment at The Grio - a black-owned media platform owned by businessman and philanthropist Byron Allen. A media and journalism veteran, Geraldine’s held senior roles at CNN, NBC, PBS, ABC, and CBC - including being vice president for diversity, equity and inclusion for CNN Worldwide. A Canadian-Jamaican living in New York, Geraldine’s never accepted setbacks on her journey - they were just challenges to overcome. From confronting racist administrators in college, to accepting a fax-machine invitation, Geraldine built a career that would always challenge for the right story to be told. You can learn more about Geraldine’s work at Soundslikehate.org // splcenter.org

This is a past conversation from Raman’s other podcast, Modern Minorities, where each week we share minority conversations for all of our majority years. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation that we hope will provide new perspectives and learnings.

“It made me think about how our sense of identity really gets mixed up in names that other people give to us.”

In real life, Bich Minh Nguyen now goes by the name Beth Nguyen - Beth is an award-winning writer and professor. In honor of AAPI Heritage Month, we wanted to share a conversation from the other podcast Modern Minorities - which features minority voices for all of our majority ears. Born in Saigon, Beth is the author of books like Stealing Buddha's Dinner, Short Girls, Pioneer Girl, and Owner of a Lonely Heart - her memoir in essays about post refugee life coming out later this year. Beth 2021 New Yorker article - “⁠America Ruined My Name For Me⁠” unpacks a necessary conversation about identity, adaption and assimilation - especially for those whose name is not hard to pronounce or understand. A refugee and a mother, Beth’s moving work has appeared in The New Yorker, The Paris Review, The New York Times, and Literary Hub. Beth's awards and honors include an American Book Award, a PEN/Jerard Award from the PEN American Center, a Bread Loaf fellowship, and best book of the year honors from the Chicago Tribune and Library Journal. Beth has taught at Purdue University and the University of San Francisco - she is and is currently a professor of creative writing at the University of Wisconsin. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about growing between the cultures of two worlds

“People are interconnected in India, there's an interdependence that doesn't exist here — a connectedness, a togetherness.”

To continue our series on travel - we’re going to (talk about) India, with co-hosts Sharad Lal and Rajiv Satyal, who also happen to be of Indian origin. At the turn of the century, many said India had gone through more change in 20 years than the West had gone through in a century. And now we’re another 20 years later. India is an emergent superpower on the world stage - some would argue a swing vote on the geopolitical map — with all the same sort of wonder people have romanticized over decades, but now also with all the social and political growing pains one would expect from such a...colorful country.

“We don't understand people we disagree with, and being challenged by the news is something people find refreshing. I figured I couldn't be the only person out there who wanted that — and it turns out I'm not.”

So it’s a new year, and it’s going to be an interesting one, so what better way to start 2024 by an introduction to a different perspective? P&G Alumni Co-host Rajiv Satyal - beyond being a world-class entertainer and comedian - also hosts the TanGent show, featuring conversations from fields of entertainment, politics, business, religion, and tech. Rajiv recently sat down with journalist Isaac Saul, whose newsletter and podcast TANGLE NEWS (ReadTangle.com) is an increasingly relevant source of independent, non-partisan source summarizing the best arguments from across the political spectrum on the news of the day. Rajiv and Isaac covered a lot of topics including the political makeup of Tangle’s audience, and how our news sources really dictate our outlook and discourse. It’s a down the middle approach that might give you some pause. So wherever you’re coming from, we hope you’ll enjoy this candid conversation about how and where we get our news for a very important year to come...

“Approach life as a lifelong learning journey. Be curious enough to really ask why - as that wisdom has no expiration date.”

Ana Maria Henao is PepsiCo’s Global Marketing VP, leading the Marketing Excellence and Partnership Strategies across both food and beverages for PepsiCo globally, reporting to the Global CMO. Ana Maria has over 22 years of Marketing experience, having started her career at P&G in Bogota, Colombia, as an ABM in detergents. Having worked in a variety of roles across developed and emerging markets. Ana Maria led the development of mainstream and luxury brands, turning around businesses and leading acquisitions, while transforming commercial functions to embrace the challenges of the digital era. Originally from Colombia, Ana Maria currently lives in Miami with her husband and two children. In this candid conversation you’ll enjoy hearing about wisdom vs intelligence, being curious, and choosing to be a protagonist.

“Just do the right thing for the customer - don’t caveat it with other things.”

Alejandro Bethlen is the CEO of the Bouqs Company - the leading online floral retailer who’s radically disrupting the $100B global floral industry - where he’s been in the top seat since June 2020. Alejandro’s a veteran of Amazon - where over eight years he held senior roles across six countries with P&L + operational responsibilities. Alejandro got his start at P&G - where he spent seven years across North America and Latin America. Alejandro received his MBA from Rice University, and recently moved back to the US (Los Angeles) with his family. In our candid conversation, Alejandro shares an insider view on not just one, but two of the world’s great companies - with a unique, multicultural, multinational perspective on work and life.

“Don’t measure success by traversing processes and challenges - but if you win once it gets in the hands of consumers.”

Mark Mercurio is President and CEO of The Gorilla Glue company, a leading, family-owned producer of consumer-branded Glues, Tapes, and Personal Care products based in Cincinnati, Ohio - and often ranked as one of the best places to work in the city. Before becoming CEO in 2019, Mark served as the company’s CMO and President of their International Business. Prior to Gorilla Glue, Mark spent ten years at P&G in marketing roles across Fabric Care, Surface Care, trade marketing, and Pet Care. Mark started his career with Accenture as an IT management consultant. Mark studied Civil Engineering at the University of Cincinnati and received his MBA from the University of Virginia. Mark also serves as a Vice-Chair on the Board of Trustees at the Children’s Home of Cincinnati. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about managing transition to a family-owned business, and the importance of integrating fun at work as a competitive advantage - especially in today’s marketplace.

“Diversity is almost synonymous with humanity — our communities and companies should reflect that diversity of the rest of the world to make impactful change.”

David Youn is President of Master Lock, the 100-year-old American company that is the leader in manufacturing & sales of locks, safes, and commercial security equipment. David started as a management consultant but learned that he enjoyed running businesses more than analyzing them. From entrepreneurship to corporate, from P&G’s brands of Tampax to Pampers, and from living in the U.S. to an expat in Korea working for Samsung, David’s journey is a testament to his motto of moving constantly and living boldly.

At the helm of Master Lock, David has delivered all time records in sales & profit and throughout his career has maintained a focus on people through mentorship and teaching. Not surprisingly, David also has a diverse range of hobbies, from being a pilot, to music, to being a dance instructor and he holds 2 degrees: a BA in Political Science from Stanford and an MBA from Northwestern. David’s wife is also a P&G alum and his son is a competitive swimmer and Rubik’s Cuber. As a proud Korean-American, you may find David watching K-drama. You’ll enjoy this great conversation about how our upbringings affect our work and life choices, taking a non-traditional career path by moving around and living boldly and the importance of finding commonalities amongst each other, in any situation.

As the year winds down, we reflect on the Learnings from Leaders we’ve had on this P&G Alumni Podcast. In our first “year in review” episode, we revisit our conversations with some of P&G’s great leaders - former CEOs, regional leaders and trailblazers in diversity, equity, and inclusion. And of course, if you want to hear more from any of these leaders, definitely check out each guests full episode. Featured in this episode... 

• John Pepper: P&G’s former CEO & Chairman (1995-2002) & Disney former Chairman
• Linda Clement-Holmes: P&G's former Chief Diversity Officer & CIO
• Jorge Montoya: P&G Latin America’s former President; Gap & Kroger Board Director 
• Qaisar Shareef: P&G’s former Head of Pakistan & Ukraine
• Ed Artzt: P&G's former CEO & Chairman (1990-1995)
• Ed Riguad: among P&G's first Black senior execs; Founder of the Freedom Center
• Shantanu Khosla: P&G's former Head of India; Crompton Greaves’ Managing Director
• Bob McDonald: P&G former CEO & Chairman (2009-2013); US Secretary of Veterans Affairs (2014-2017)

"People are willing to risk a lot to show their support for our freedoms."

Ed Rigaud was the Founder & CEO of the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, which pays tribute to all efforts to abolish human enslavement and secure freedom for all people. At Procter & Gamble, Ed was P&G’s second-ever Black Vice President - spanning a 36-year career at the company in 1965 - during which he was the R&D Technical Brand Manager who helped create Pringles. Ed was later the first Black co-owner + lead investor of the Cincinnati Reds, as well as CEO of EnovaPremier, and CEO of Legacy Acquisition. Ed has served on numerous company boards, has received appointments from the Governor of Ohio, and a sitting US President. He’s a husband, father, grandfather, accomplished artist and guitar player.

In this candid conversation on race, work, and life - Ed shares his thoughts as a black man growing up in Louisiana, rising through the ranks of corporate America, and the current climate. Ed believes that his  number one mission is to help those who have been consistently under-represented to achieve higher levels of freedom…especially in the areas of education, economic empowerment, and inclusion.

This episode originally aired in August 2020

“The act of creation will transform you completely - even if it doesn’t achieve success.”

Karan Bajaj is the CEO & Founder of WhiteHat Junior - and the first of many Alumni leader that is an “accomplished entrepreneur” - going beyond the “big brand” path to success - where there are many equally valuable learnings. Karan leads WhiteHat Junior, which is a leading edtech and coding platform for kids - which he founded 2 years ago - and was sold to Byju’s for $300 Million after just 18 months. Karan was previously the CEO of Discovery Networks in South Asia - overseeing popular channels like the Discovery Channel, TLC, Animal Planet, and Discovery Kids. Karan was a senior marketing director over Kraft’s $3 Billion Dollar global gum business, and a Management Consultant for the Boston Consulting Group. Karan got his start at P&G, where he spent 6 years on Ariel across Southeast Asia and Herbal Essences in the US

Karan’s been awarded to AdAge’s 40 Under 40, has hiked every tough mountain from Kilimanjaro to Dianali, and also a best-selling fiction author of books like Keep Off the Grass, Johnny Gone Down, and the Yoga of Max’s Discontent. He’s a yoga practitioner and teacher, as well as a husband and a father of two. You’ll enjoy this conversation with an accomplished Alumni entrepreneur - about the act of creation, and the perseverance to do so...

In today’s show of the P&G Alumni podcast, we interview Jorge Montaya, former President of The Procter & Gamble Company’s Global Snacks & Beverage Division, and Procter & Gamble Latin America. 

We kickstart this show with Jorge sharing some heart-warming childhood memories. Jorge was born and brought in Peru by a strong and principled mother, a school teacher by profession. His mother, Jorge shares, instilled in him the value of servant leadership and passion for work.

Following in his elder brother’s footsteps, Jorge moved to the US to study mechanical engineering at Berkeley. It was here that Jorge first realized that America was indeed the land of limitless opportunities. 

Next, Jorge narrates an interesting anecdote about how he got his MBA. The Organization of American States awarded a scholarship to Jorge for his MBA. Their only condition was that they would like him to go back to Peru and work there for a while. Jorge shares how he kept his end of the promise by indeed working in Peru as a P&G employee. 

In the next segment of the show, listeners will be treated to some excellent anecdotes from Jorge’s 30-year long career. Particularly, Jorge shares the many difficulties that he faced while setting up P&G business in Latin America, and how he managed to overcome them. 

What does it take to build a dream team…

And how do you protect the integrity of the team? 

Currently, Jorge works as a board director, Kroger and Gap Inc. 

We wrap up this show with a fun and engaging rapid fire round.

What You Will Learn In This Show:

• Why old-fashioned hard work is the surest way to rise through the corporate ranks
• Biggest challenges of setting up a business in a foreign country, and how to overcome them
• Growing your business without compromising on your ethics and integrity 
• And much, much more!

“If I'm in a tough environment, should I leave? And I always say, no, not immediately. Try to see if you can bring in your strengths and make it work."

Dalia Feldheim is an author, organizational psychologist, and works with leading companies to promote heart-felt leadership - so we wanted to feature a conversation about her 2020 TEDx talk “Dare to Lead Like a Girl.” Before founding her Flow Leadership Consultancy, Dalia worked as the CMO and VP of marketing APAC for Electrolux, and prior to that, spent nearly 17 years at Procter & Gamble, working her way up from ABM to Marketing Director for FemCare in Asia. During her time, she helped to work on some iconic ad campaigns such as ‘Tampax Mother Nature’ and ’Always #like a girl’ which was ranked as Forbes most influential campaign of the decade. Dalia holds an Executive Masters degree in Consulting and Coaching for Change from IN-SE-AD business school along with a Happiness Facilitator diploma from the ‘Happiness Studies Academy’ in partnership with Miami university.

TED talks are "Ideas Worth Spreading" - short talks and presentations that have lit up the internet since 2006. And since # of P&G Alums have shared TEDx talks at official events with their communities - we thought these ideas were worth spreading on our podcast. Are you a P&G Alumni with a TEDx talk? Shoot us a note - pgalumpod@gmail.com - and maybe we'll feature your TEDx talk on a future P&G Alumni Podcast!

“I'm an ideas person, but learning to say no is important. People appreciate it.”

Jim Stengel was P&G Global Marketing Officer from 2001 - 2008 - was instrumental in putting brand purpose on the map - after rising through the ranks of brand management in the food, beauty, and baby care divisions around the world. Today, as the President of The Jim Stengel Company - a think tank and consultancy with a mission to rethink business, branding, and life - Jim now works with brands across many industries. He’s the author of 2 books: “Grow: How Ideals Power Growth and Profit at the World’s Greatest Companies,” “Unleashing the Innovators:  How Mature Companies Find New Life with Startups” and has taught at UCLA and Kellogg Northwestern. Jim actually go his start working for Time, Inc, and studied at Franklin & Marshall College, and received his MBA from Penn State University. You’ll really enjoy this candid conversation with Jim about the importance of purpose, self awareness, and making the space to learn, ideate and be inspired.

“Tech will do everything - but it won’t make you a better human. Use technology to get less busy and focus on being a better human, and the world will be a better place.”

Vivek Sunder is CEO of Cuemath - the education technology company whose mission is to make the world’s children great at math — to create invincible problem-solvers who will go on to solve humanity’s biggest problems. Vivek’s been in the lead of the India-based company since 2021 - with aims to scale the business globally. Prior to leading Cuemath, Vivek served as COO of Swiggy - India’s leading online delivery service - helping the company scale from good to great, to 500+ cities in 18 months - especially during the global pandemic. Vivek also spent twenty years at P&G in various capacities across developing markets (India, Africa) as well as developed markets (UK, Singapore, Korea) and hybrid markets (China, Thailand, Malaysia). Vivek is passionate about building organizational capability and has a proven track record of creating better business results via more capable teams - spanning 20+ nationalities - from new country startups to traditional business unit roles. Vivek is a graduate of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Calcutta, and prior to that studied Computer Engineering from Delhi University. He is a regular guest lecturer at his alma mater IIM-C, as well at other premier B-schools across the world where he teaches and shares business expertise. Vivek speaks six languages, and has a passion for photography with work featured in global media outlets like National Geographic, the BBC, and ET. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about the intersection of technology, business, and behavioral psychology.

“It's not just one Latino or one Hispanic group, it's much more nuanced. It's less about the language and more about who we are and what our role is in this country.” 

Luis Silberwasser is Univision’s President of the Television Networks Group, where he oversees the company's TV networks, as well as its entertainment, news and sports divisions along with its ops and tech teams. Luis is a seasoned, award-winning TV executive with 25+ years’ experience building TV networks and creating entertainment content focusing on International, U.S. Hispanic and Latin American markets. Prior to joining Univision, Luis served as Telemundo Networks’ President where he modernized the brand and transformed the company’s content strategy. Earlier in his career, Luis served as Discovery Networks EVP and Chief Content Officer, having risen through the company’s senior ranks. And of course, Luis got his start in brand management at P&G in Beauty Care. Luis studied industrial engineering at Georgia Tech, and received his MBA from Harvard Business School. Luis is a proud dual citizen of the United States and Columbia, passionate about Futbol, History, and Latin music, and lives in Miami with his wife and four children. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about creating content that resonates across cultures and generations. 

“There need to be silences - you need to give people room to run. Let people talk more. I already know what I know now. I wanna know what you know.”

Recently P&G Alumni Co-host Rajiv Satyal sat down with Crossroads pastor and podcast host Bryan Tome on his show “The Aggressive Life.” What started as an exploration of Rajiv’s comedy career and approach turned into an open and honest conversation among two very different perspectives on politics, faith, and culture. With the Fourth of July right around the corner for Americans, we celebrate our independence and freedom, but also take an honest reflection on who we are - and want to be - as a nation, and as a people. With today’s level of division and discord , the importance of talking - and listening to others who might not look and think like us. There is a better way from simply passively standing by and retreating to our echo chambers. It's about seeking to understand, which was one of the values many of us were taught during our time at P&G. We hope you’ll enjoy this candid conversation about comedy - and curiosity. 

“Reframe the competition - to yourself - to fully achieve what you’re meant to achieve.”

Michelle Crossan is Samsung Electronics America’s Senior Vice President of Corporate Strategy, Innovation and Transformation at, where she leads overall corporate strategy, innovation, transformation, and new business incubation. Prior to Samsung, she also served as CMO for luxury mobile brand Vertu. Michelle got her start at Procter & Gamble, starting as a systems analyst, and working on brands like Olay and Anna Sui before becoming the Brand Leader for P&G Prestige. She’s a graduate from University of Strathclyde Business School, and is married with two children in New Jersey. Having worked across business cultures, geographies, and industries - Michelle’s approach is an intentional and thoughtful one. In our candid conversation, she also shares what leaders can do to strengthen and encourage their team amidst today’s current challenges.

“The first job of any leader is to coach people that can do a better job than them, and lead better than them — to unlock people's fullest potential.“

Raj Rao is IBM’s General Manager of Blockchain Ventures where he oversees programs in blockchain, AI and cloud architecture. Raj was previously the CEO of Ford Mobility, leading the automotive company’s Palo Alto based mobility business investments, as well as Chief Digital Officer of 3M. Raj got his career start at P&G marketing - working across Europe, the Middle East, and Canada. A native of India, Raj earned an honors degree in economics from the University of Delhi, and a Master’s Degree in Management from Boston University’s Business School. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about the factors that influence our careers — and why it’s important to bend the culture as a leader.

"Getting unstuck is about resetting your success parameters to be owned by you."

Alexandra Warbasse leads executive development at Lyft, the popular ride-sharing app. As one of Lyft’s first 100 employees starting in 2013 - she helped launch the company in several major cities like New York, Chicago, Boston, Detroit and Houston, -  setting up ALL operations across hiring, training, and local demand-gen and partnership efforts. Prior to joining Lyft, Alex was a Consumer Insights Manager for P&G’s Prestige portfolio of brands in NY - like Dolce & Gabbana, Lacoste, and Hugo Boss.

Alex shares her passion for helping people get “unstuck” and live fuller, more meaningful lives. In her professional and professional practice, she speaks to the importance of mindfulness - and meditation - to cultivate more conscious leadership.

As 2022 comes to a close, we compiled some of the year’s learnings...from leaders. So sit back with your beverage of choice and enjoy. And give us a gift - leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts — hearing from YOU, our fellow Alums makes a big difference for our team as we reflect on the year. THANK YOU for the continued support of our podcast and our amazing guests...

• Suzy Deering: Ford Motor Company CMO
• Claire Elvers, Wayfair’s Head of Global Brand Management & Insights
• Matthew McConaughey, Academy Award–winning actor and produce
• Nitin Gajria, Google’s Managing Director for Sub-Saharan Africa
• Christine Fisher, Possip Co-Founder & COO
• Marissa Solis, National Football League (NFL) SVP of Global Brand & Consumer Marketing
• Tristan Walker, Walker & Co, CEO & Co-Founder
• Sharon Hall, Walmart’s VP of Global Executive Recruiting
• Seaphes Miller, Founder & CEO of Fusion Integrated Solutions
• Andrew Tarvin & Raman Sehgal reflecting on 100+ episodes
• John Pepper & Qaisar Shareef on Understanding Ukraine & Russia
• Arianna Huffington, Thrive Global Founder & CEO
• Raj Rao, IBM’s GM for Blockchain Ventures
• Malcolm Gladwell, Author & Journalist
• Dian Alyan: GiveLight Foundation Founder & CEO
• Kevin Hochman, Kentucky Fried Chicken, President, Yum! Brands
• Ikdeep Singh, Mars Petcare President, North America
• Qaisar Shareef, P&G’s former head of Pakistan & Ukraine
• P&G Alumni Comedians: Greg Warren, Josh Sneed, Rajiv Satyal, Andrew Tarvin
• Mahzarin Banaji, Harvard Psychologist & ‘Blindspot’ Author
• Mike Shangkuan, Lingoda CEO
• Gary Vaynerchuk (VaynerX) & Bracken Darrell (Logitech): Masters of Digital Disruption
• Aftab Pureval, Cincinnati Mayor
• Kevin Shapiro, Coty SVP of US Marketing
• Julie Eddleman, DoubleVerify’s Global Chief Commercial Officer
• Jay Sethi: Diageo Beer Company CMO & SVP of Diageo Convenience
• Shelly McNamara: P&G’s Chief Equality & Inclusion Officer
• Guy Raz, NPR Producer & Journalist
• Jakub Kocinski, Digital Safety & Trust (P&G, Google, TikTok, Meta)
• Poliana Sousa, Latin America’s Coca-Cola™ Lead
• Vivek Sunder: Cuemath CEO
• Katie Couric, TV Journalist, Producer, & Author
• K Patrick Davis: Blue Buffalo VP & General Manager
• Ana Maria Henao, PepsiCo’s VP of Global Marketing Excellence 
• TEDx Talks with P&G Alums: Drew, Ida, & Rajiv
• John Pepper & Ursula Burns’ (Xerox former CEO) on Race & Understanding
• Tom Asacker, P&G Trainer & Author 
• David Youn, Master Lock, President
• Alonya Tkachenko, Nommi CEO & Co-founder
• Paul Polman, Unilever xCEO on “Net Positive”
• Kyle Schlegel, Weber’s VP Americas Marketing & DTC
• Judy Okten: The Power of Disconnecting
• Edward Norton - Actor, Director, Activist, Entrepreneur (from P&G’s “More Than Soap” Podcast)
• Jim Lafferty, Fine Hygienic Holding, CEO
• JOHN SMALE - John Pepper & David Taylor’s reflections on John Smale
• Chip Bergh, Levi’s CEO: Advocacy, Activism & John Smale
• Bob McDonald & Bob Gill’s reflections on John Smale
• Janet Reid & Gordon Brunner’s reflections on John Smale
• A.G. Lafley & Charlotte Otto’s reflections on John Smale
• Oya Canbas, Bayer Global Brand Director
• Vahe Ayvazian, Abbott Divisional Vice President of Marketing & Core Diagnostics
• Sudha Ranganathan, LinkedIn’s Director of Product Marketing
• David Taylor, P&G’s Former CEO & Chairman

“We are all intersectional - uniqueness is our greatest gift. Empathy makes you a better leader.”

This Pride Month, we wanted to replay a few conversations with past LGBTQIA+ guest on this P&G Alumni Podcast.

Shelly McNamara is P&G’s Chief Equality & Inclusion Officer, where she’s responsible for shaping culture, policies, and leadership to promote greater diversity. Shelly’s also an avid storyteller, speaker and writer — her new book No Blanks, No Pauses - weaves her life story with reflections and poetry. Shelly got her start in Sales, and spent 25+ years rising through P&G’s HR ranks, ultimately rising to the level of Executive Vice President - where she worked on some of the company's largest businesses with brand portfolios ranging from $4B to $35B, working on employee populations exceeding 25,000. Shelly’s committed to enabling employees of every background to bring their full selves to work. - an active member of P&G’s Corporate Women’s Leadership Team, and she’s led the expansion of LGBTQ+ employee groups around the globe.

Shelly shares many stories from her personal and professional life - as a mother and “out” female executive. Through her writing - and poetry - she’s been able to process and persevere through many moments of inclusions - and exclusion. Core to Shelly’s every day work is to have people think more about our shared humanity - because ultimately, that’s where true understanding comes from - to tackle the issues we must all face together.

"The bigger the roles that I got, the more I ended up drawing on what I had learned in improv and standup. Why was no one talking about how valuable humor is as a skill? So I realized maybe I should.”

Drew Tarvin is the world’s first and only Humor Engineer (not just this podcast’s co-host). On a How To Live podcast conversation with co-host Sharad Lal, Drew shares not just his career journey - but practical skills on how humour can amplify leadership and why it’s more than just a tool for entertainment. Drew studied engineering at THE Ohio State University, and was hired to P&G for his technical skills where he worked on global roles in his hometowns of Cincinnati and New York City. Yet, it was humour—not engineering—that became his edge in the workplace. By using humour, he diffused tension, built strong relationships, influenced others, and accelerated his career — in fact, he became P&G's first ever - self proclaimed - corporate humorist.  Ultimately this led Drew to make the entrepreneurial leap — founding Humor That Works, a company that has helped 10,000+ leaders in over 100 organisations—including IBM, GE, the FBI, AND P&G —harness humour to lead effectively. His TEDx talk on the skill of humor has been viewed 15MM+ times. You can learn more about Drew’s work @ drewtarvin.com. You'll enjoy this candid conversation on how humor can add depth, purpose, and fulfillment to even the most serious work.

This conversation is from from P&G Alum Sharad Lal’s top podcast “HOW TO LIVE” - for lots more great conversations with Sharad and thought leaders, subscribe to How To Live wherever you get your favorite podcasts, or visit howtolive.life 

Got an idea for a future “Learnings from Leaders” episode? Reach out at pgalumpod@gmail.com

“Bigger is not always better, but you can thrive with a small group of people around you in big places.”

Andy Shih is Nike’s VP of Direct Stores and Digital Commerce for the Asia Pacific and Latin America. Andy previously spent 5 years in Shanghai where he led Nike’s eCommerce efforts across greater China. Before joining Nike, Andy was one of P&G’s earliest digital marketers - working across brands like Pantene, Clairol, Olay, Cover Girl, Secret, Head & Shoulders, and more - ultimately leading programs in digital marketing, business analytics, and commercial innovation. Andy also happens to be a graduate of The Ohio State University. 

In this candid conversation - you’ll hear from Andy how he grew in big places - universities, companies, and even countries like China - making them smaller with what matters most: great people.

Learn more:
https://www.pgalums.com/

“You sometimes have to go slow to go fast. When chaos ensues, take a step back to think strategically.”

Brian McNamara is CEO of GSK Consumer Healthcare - a role he’s held since 2016 - leading a portfolio of some of the world’s most trusted brands in wellness, oral health, nutrition, and skin health - including Sensodyne, Voltaren and Panadol. Previously, Brian was GSK Consumer Healthcare’s Head of Europe and Americas, following the creation of a joint venture between GSK and Novartis, which he spearheaded as head of Novartis’s OTC division. Brian joined Novartis in 2004 as Senior Vice President of the North America OTC business, and of course, began his career at Procter & Gamble.

Brian is a Board Member of the World Self-Medication Industry Association (WSMI) and the Consumer Goods Forum (CGF). He’s also previously served on Boards for the Economic Affairs Committee, Association for Europe Self-Medication Association (AESGP) and Board Member and Vice Chairman, Consumer Health Products Association (CHPA). Brian studied Electrical Engineering from Union College in Schenectady, NY, and received his MBA in Finance from University of Cincinnati. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about being open to learning, committing to people, focusing on impact, and having the courage it takes to do what’s needed - while staying humble along the way.

“ 'Yes, and...' is a kind of courage. Only failure allows us to begin again more intelligently.”

Emily Chang, CEO of McCann Worldgroup China. Emily’s a seasoned marketer with 20 years of experience across the US and China. At Starbucks she was the SVP of Marketing, and CMO of Starbucks China. She was the Chief Commercial Officer at Intercontinental Hotels Group, and APPLE’S head of Asia retail marketing. Emily got her start at P&G, spending 11 years working across multiple business units. Emily’s spoken at conferences around the world - including Fortune Most Powerful Women’s Summit, C2 in Montréal, and has delivered three TEDx talks. Emily’s also the author of the book “The Spare Room: Define Your Social Legacy to Live a More Intentional Life and Lead with Authentic Purpose.”  Emily lives with her husband and daughter, and over the years, has shared her spare room with sixteen young people, five dogs, one turtle, one guinea pig, and 129 snails. You can learn more about Emily’s work at social-legacy.com. In our candid conversation, Emily shares how her immigrant upbringing, curiosity and willingness to take risks has led her her professional career, and personal purpose.

“You need other people — work well with others and learn from them. The more you grow, the more you realize you don't get anything done alone.”

Poliana Sousa is Latin America’s Coca-Cola™ Lead, which includes communication strategy and innovation in 39 countries in South and Central America, the Caribbean, and Mexico. Poliana also plays a key role in the brand’s long-term strategic planning and leads key global projects as part of the Global Coca-Cola network. Before joining Coca-Cola, Poliana held several leadership positions at Procter & Gamble for nearly 20 years — her roles included Marketing, Brand Communications and Media Director in Brazil, and on brands such as Gillette, Pampers, and Oral-B. Poliana has a degree in Business Administration from Iowa State University and an MBA from Xavier University. She has received several industry awards including Forbes' Best 10 CMOs in Brazil (2020) and 10 Most Admired Executives in Brazil by Agency Scope (2020). You’ll enjoy this authentic and vulnerable conversation about overcoming big changes, imposter syndrome, and adversity - to persevere and thrive at work and life.

“Let's be wrong sooner because we'll learn from it - move on and take on challenges in a very different way.”

This Pride Month, we wanted to replay a few conversations with past LGBTQIA+ guest on this P&G Alumni Podcast.

Jay Sethi is the CMO of Diageo Beer Company and Senior Vice President of Diageo’s Convenience Category. In addition to leading and executing for three of Diageo’s business units, Jay has a strong passion for inclusion and diversity and was instrumental in creating the “Love Wins” campaign for the Smirnoff brand in partnership with the Human Rights Campaign (HRC) celebrating love and acceptance. Prior to Diageo, Jay worked at Procter & Gamble as the Director of North America COVERGIRL, returning the brand to growth through new and exciting partnerships, including the NFL and The Hunger Games movie franchise. Jay is known as an innovative marketer and has received numerous awards, including a “40 under 40” Marketing Leadership Award from Advertising Age. Jay graduated from The University of Chicago and previously worked in the world of Chicago politics with roles in the U.S. Senate and top political campaigns. Jay is fluent in Spanish and is proudly multicultural as a Mexican and Indian American. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about how to be more thoughtful - and intentional about using your skillset to have an impact in and beyond work, because there are many actionable steps anyone can take to be more open and inclusive in business, and life.

As we get ready for the year ahead, we reflect on the Learnings from Leaders we’ve had on this P&G Alumni Podcast. In this second “year in review” episode, we revisit our conversations with the NEXT generation of brand leaders - not too far off from many of our current stages of work and life. Beyond reflecting on where we’ve been - we also talked about our current moment - and where things are going. These are Alumni Leaders NOW in the prime of their career at some of the world’s best companies. Check out each guest’s full episode to hear more of the conversation. Featured in this episode... 

• Andy Shih: Nike, VP of eCommerce & Direct Stores - 
• Julie Eddleman: Google, Global Client Partner
• Antonio Sciuto: Salesforce, Office of the CEO, former Nestlé Waters’ CMO
• Janet Roller: Shutterfly, VP Brand & Audience, former Marriott & Target Design Exec
• Vince Hudson: American Express SVP of Brand, former BET, Samsung, Diageo Exec
• Julie Sutherland: Estée Lauder VP & Commercial Head
• Gustavo Lopez Ghory: Kimberly Clark, Chief Supply Chain Officer
• Alexandra Warbasse: Lyft Executive Development
• Charlie Chappel: Hershey’s Head of Media 
• Filippo Catalano: Reckitt Benckiser’s CIO, and Nestle’s former CIO
• Tami Hurwitz: Amazon Music Global VP of Marketing, former Microsoft GM

“To lead others effectively,  you have to learn how to lead yourself effectively.”

Jim Taylor serves as President of Arby’s, the second-largest sandwich restaurant brand in the world

with more than 3,500 restaurants across eight countries. Jim previously served as Arbys’ CMO, where he led all R&D, product innovation, brand marketing and media. Jim also served as Arby’s SVP of Brand Advertising and Activation, as well as SVP of Product Development and Innovation. Prior to his 7+ years at Arby’s, Jim spent 4 years at Darden, parent company of Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, and more - where he rose through roles in Strategy, Innovation, and Marketing. And of course, Jim began his career at P&G, where over 15 years, he rose through the ranks of Finance and Marketing in Oral Care, Male Grooming, and Digestive Wellness. Jim is an alum of the University of Illinois and Stanford University, and serves on the board of the University of Georgia Terry College of Business. You’ll enjoy this really fun, candid conversation about building teams, shepherding innovation, recognizing blind spots, and leading effectively.

• “Be intellectually honest in any decision - otherwise you only see the answer that you want to see.”

Charlotte Otto served as P&G’s Global External Relations Officer for thirteen years, and later as Senior Corporate Advisor to PR industry leader Weber Shandwick for six years. At P&G - Charlotte led the company's external relations activities worldwide -  including media relations, employee + shareholder communications, government +community relations, and corporate contributions. Charlotte led a 33 year career at P&G, rising through the ranks of Brand Management and Corporate Comms, and was the trusted counselor to five P&G CEOs. In fact, Charlotte was P&G’s first female corporate officer. Charlotte has received numerous industry accolades - including being named Woman of the Year AND Corporate Woman of the Year by the Cincinnati Enquirer, as well as receiving the Matrix Award for Public Relations, and the prestigious Paladin award. Charlotte’s a proud Purdue Alum, where she received her Bachelors and Masters — and she even studied at the Culinary Institute of America. In a great conversation about intention - and serendipity - you’ll learn about the power of embracing a path never imagined, and removing our own blinders to be truly intellectually honest and objective about whatever situations we may face.

This episode originally aired in April 2021

“The ability to persist in the face of overwhelming odds is a kind of necessary feature of the innovator.“

Malcolm Gladwell is a Canadian journalist and writer best known for treading the boundary between popularizer and intellectual. Malcolm’s the author of bestsellers like “The Tipping Point”, “Blink”, “Outliers”, “Talking to Strangers” and most recently — “The Bomber Mafia.” Malcolm  is also the co-founder of Pushkin Industries, an audio content company that produces the podcasts “Revisionist History,” which reconsiders things both overlooked and misunderstood, and “Broken Record,” interviewing musicians across genres. Gladwell has been listed as one of TIME’s 100 Most Influential People and Foreign Policy’s Top Global Thinkers.

But Malcolm is not exactly a P&G Alumni, so what’s the deal? Alongside our partners at P&G, we’re thrilled to share another episode of P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast - available exclusively each week to P&G Employees at GetMoreThanSoap.com. On “More Than Soap,” P&G shares weekly conversations with Inspiring guests, unique perspectives, and unconventional ideas. “More Than Soap” is P&G’s official internal podcast - available  to all 100,000 P&G employees worldwide, and hosted by Dorion Positano, P&G’s Director of New Business and Content Innovation. Interested in learning more about P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast, or P&G Studios, can reach out directly to Dorion on LinkedIn. GetMoreThanSoap.com

“Be curious. Curiosity is the foundation of  success. Understanding where people are coming from helps you to ask the right questions.”

Vahe Ayvazian is Abbott’s Divisional Vice President of Marketing & Core Diagnostics. Having served at Abbott for 8+ years, Vahes work is focused on delivering measurably better healthcare performance through innovation to the healthcare ecosystem. Vahe got his start at P&G, spending twelve years in marketing and category management roles, from Prilosec OTC to Pantene — where in haircare he helped turn around a decade of brand decline through simpler innovation and retailer understanding. Vahe earned his bachelor’s degree in Marketing and International Business at Indiana University, and has received executive certifications from the CMO program and Big Data from Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Business. A proud husband and father of two, Vahe is also on the board of a local school district educational foundation in the Chicago suburbs. Always curious, Vahe has grown his career passion for building teams and organizational culture for sustainable growth. Through his early years in sports that greatly shaped his team player attitude to the mentors at P&G that believed in him and demonstrated the importance of listening and being curious, Vahe pays the leadership learning and mentorship forward on the global teams he now leads.

“Enjoy the journey, take stock in how you're learning, how you're building your experience, your brand. It's that openness and that patience that actually creates the opportunities for exponential success.”

Andrew Swinand is the CEO of the Creative Group across all Publicis agencies, as well as the CEO of Leo Burnett

As CEO, Andrew leads the agency by emphasizing the power of transparency in regards to data, and balances that with the creativity needed to drive businesses forward for clients. He was also the founder and CEO of marketing startup, The Abundancy, and co-founded its holding company Abundant Venture Partners (AVP), an incubator focused on building media and healthcare companies. Prior to that, he was president of Starcom MediaVest Group, the world’s largest media agency. He also proudly served his country as a platoon leader in the U.S. Army. Andrew has been recognized by Advertising Age as a "Media Maven," and was inducted into the American Advertising Federation Hall of Achievement in 2008. Andrew has founded 9 companies, with 7 exits. And even worked on the Reflect Brand at P&G. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about focusing on problems to solve, cultivating a curious soul, and practicing kind leadership.

“Dharma is doing what must be done. Don’t worry about credit - you’ll be happier and your work better.”

Gurcharan Das is known as “the godfather of P&G India” - the former chairman and managing director of Procter & Gamble India. He also served as VP managing director of worldwide strategic planning for P&G’s Health & Beauty business. Schooled in the US, Gurcharan returned to join Richardson Vicks India - rising from a trainee to senior assignments in the US + Mexico, and becoming RV’s India CEO - turning the company around from bankruptcy, and shepherding its acquisition and expansion by P&G. Now full-time scholar and writer, Gurcharan’s published numerous novels, plays, and articles, and has spoken at Harvard, Berkely, and Oxford. His book “The Difficulty of Being Good: On the Subtle Art of Dharma” is taught at Harvard Business School and a worthy read (https://bit.ly/3qeKqRi). You’ll enjoy hearing not just Gurchuran’s tales of working in rising India, but also his unique global perspective on politics and race, and how the Indian concept of Dharma can apply to work - and the world.

"Ignore arrogance and make convenience meet relevance. Consider these elements to know what is convenient and relevant for the customer.” 

Bernd Pichler is Aston Martin’s Managing Director, Greater China. Bernd was previously Managing Director for Bentley Motors in the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Macau, where he oversaw all local operations and sales in the company’s second-largest region. Having lived and worked in Asia since 2005, Bernd has more than two decades of leadership experience and a track record of driving commercial growth in China for major automotive brands, including within the luxury segment.

This is part of our Chinese leaders series - hosted by P&G Alumni Emily Chang. Got an idea for a future “Learnings from Leaders” episode? Reach out at pgalumpod@gmail.com

“Go where the growth is happening - and the growth of yourself will follow.”

Zena Arnold is Kimberly Clark’s Chief Digital & Marketing Officer,  an accomplished executive across CPG and Technology marketing and general management.  Zena was previously at Google for nearly seven years - in senior roles as Global Head of Growth for ChromeOS, General Manager for US Chromebooks, and Head of Americas Marketing for Google Play. The first formative decade of her career was at Kellogg’s, and of course Procter & Gamble, where she held brand and portfolio management roles on brands like Olay, Folgers, Pop-Tarts and more. Zena holds a degree in computer science from The Ohio State University. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about owning your career, not having things mapped out, and taking risks into uncomfortable and challenging roles. 

"Success doesn't teach you much, but a good failure will set you straight."

Cheryl Bachelder is the former CEO of Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen and serves on the boards of Chick-fil-A, US Foods, and Pier 1. During a decade leading Popeye’s, Cheryl revitalized Popeyes into one of America’s top fast-food brands - with more than 10 straight years of growth. She previously held executive-level positions at Domino's and KFC. Cheryl started her career in a number of brand management positions at Nabisco, Gillette, and of course P&G.

Cheryl shares her thoughts on servant leadership - which she literally wrote a book on: “Dare to Serve: How To Drive Superior Results While Serving Others.” Through deeply personal stories of work and family - Cheryl shares stories not just about winning - but the importance of learning from failures.

Learn more:
https://www.pgalums.com/

“It's less about what you do or where you do it, but more about the people you work with. That's what's going to make a difference - learn from great people and grow.”

Angie Hicks is the Co-founder of Angie’s List & Chief Customer Officer at Angie Home Services. Angie Co-founded Angie's List in 1995 and served as CMO and on the company’s Board of Directors. In 2007 she led the merger with IAC Home Advisors to form Angie Home Services. Angie received her MBA from Harvard Business School and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from DePaul University, which has honored her with a Distinguished Alumni Award for Management and Entrepreneurship, and with the Robert C McDermott Medal for Excellence and Entrepreneurship. Angie’s also the recipient of numerous awards including the Indiana Commission for Women Torchbearer Award for Entrepreneurial Accomplishments, the TechPoint Trailblazer Award, Harvard Business School's Alumni Achievement Award, and Woman Tech founder of the Year. In this P&G Alumni Enrichment webinar, you’ll enjoy hearing about Angie’s personal story of entrepreneurship, and navigating through work and life’s many changes.

"You win more frequently when others on your team are winning."

Sara Mathew is former CEO of Dun & Bradstreet, and on the Boards of Campbell’s, Freddie Mac, Avon, and Shire. Growing up in India - Sara moved to the US, started at P&G as a clerk, and rose to a senior exec. Sara became Dun & Bradstreet’s CFO in 2001, SVP of International in 2005, COO in 2007, and ultimately CEO from 2010-2013. Sara transformed D&B to an innovative digital enterprise, introducing Data-as-a-Service (DaaS) and accelerating Big Data Analytics. The Financial Times named her one of the Top 50 Women in World Business.

Sara discusses that while life creates events you cannot control, what matters most is how you choose to respond. Sara also candidly shares her personal leadership journey - from manager to leader. By shifting from winning at all costs, to understanding that great leaders deliver BOTH great results and happy people - Sara developed an unbeatable team.

“There is a level of compassion to understanding that there's things that need to be done.” // “We have to make up for lost time - transparent actions and results need to follow.”

In the midst of all the social and upheaval we continue to face facing - we sat down with serial entrepreneur Gary Vaynerchuk, alongside Logitech CEO (+ P&G Alum) Bracken Darrell for a conversation with two “Masters of Digital Disruption”. In a candid conversation that spanned the internet and blockchain technologies (driving increased transparency and accountability) - to the greater need for social and environmental impact (rooted in business values) - you’ll enjoy this conversation with two leaders who are constantly learning and growing personally, and professionally.

Gary Vaynerchuk is an entrepreneur at heart — he builds businesses. Considered one of the leading global minds on what’s next - Gary is a serial entrepreneur, and serves as the Chairman of VaynerX,  the CEO of VaynerMedia and the Creator & CEO of VeeFriends. Gary works with Fortune 1000 brands thru his agency VaynerMedia — a part of the VaynerX holding company - which also includes Eva Nosidam Productions, VaynerNFT, Gallery Media Group, The Sasha Group, Tracer, VaynerSpeakers, and VaynerCommerce. Gary is also the Co-Founder of VaynerSports, Resy and Empathy Wines. He is a prolific angel investor with early investments in companies such as Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr, Venmo, Snapchat, Coinbase and Uber. Gary’s also a Board Member, advisor, best-selling author, and award-winning speaker and thought leader with millions of followers.

Bracken Darrell is President & CEO of Logitech - a company he joined in 2012 - where he’s led brand vision and operations - as the driver for Logitech’s continued growth and profitability (up over 13x) —  reinventing Logitech into an award-winning design company, an industry force pursuing a more sustainable and equal world. Beyond Logitech’s numerous awards in design, innovation, and sustainability during his tenure, Bracken himself has been named Swiss CEO of the year by Obermatt three times in the past four years, won the P&G Alumni Innovation Award, and will receive the 2022 Edison Achievement Award. Prior to joining Logitech, Bracken spent a decade in executive roles @ Whirlpool, Braun, and General Electric - and also worked in brand management at P&G. Prior to receiving his MBA from Harvard, Bracken worked at Arthur Anderson and PepsiCo. Bracken serves on the board of directors of Life Biosciences, a longevity company, and on the U.S. advisory board of Harvard Business School. Bracken received his MBA from from Harvard Business School and studied English from Hendrix College in Arkansas, and loves playing basketball with his boys.

“There are some moments in sales where it does not go at all like you planned, and you just feel lost. And I do think humor is a way to deal with failure.”

Greg Warren is a nationally known stand-up comic whose new comedy special “The Salesman” recently launched, so we thought we’d talk with Greg about his creative process and learnings we can find from the world of stand-up comedy.  Greg has been featured on Late Night with Seth Meyers, Last Comic Standing, Comedy Central Presents, The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, BET and CMT. He is a fan favorite on the nationally syndicated Bob and Tom Radio Show and can be heard daily on Sirius/XM. Prior to becoming a full-time comedian, Greg spent 10 years at P&G as an account executive for brands like Pringles and Folgers. He’s currently based in St Louis, MO.

Are you a P&G Alumni leader who’s an industry expert on a topic where our audience can get lots of learnings? Shoot us a note - pgalumpod@gmail.com - and maybe we'll feature you on a future P&G Alumni Podcast!

Bob Gilbreath is a longtime friend of the pod, and a career friend and mentor to many. He is also a 2x-exit entrepreneur and co-founder of Hearty, a curated matchmaking service that combines top software developers with early-stage, venture-backed startups. He recently wrote a post entitled "Thinking of a Career Change? Try the Minimum First" - so we decided to sit down with him to learn more..

You can read more of Bob's writings @ behearty.substack.com

“Outsiders bring fresh thinking to the table. Some of my biggest contributions were because I thought differently and spoke my own mind all the time.”

Peg Wyant is the Founder & CEO of Grandin Properties. But before that, Peg broke the glass ceiling at Procter & Gamble in 1967 - a decade before the phrase entered the lexicon. When the company tried to put her in the typing pool, she responded with “all I can do is think, don’t you have a test for that.” She rose through the ranks, becoming a serial “first female” including first brand manager and first direct report to then CEO John Smale as head of strategic planning and acquisitions. After leaving P&G to become an almost full-time mom, Peg sought other challenges — consulting for Fortune 500 CEOs, and founding a venture capital fund focused on women-led companies. Peg soon launched Grandin Properties, a real estate development and management company focusing on walkable urban neighborhoods in Cincinnati. Beyond her career, Peg helped found the P&G Alumni Network and the Women’s Capital Club. Peg’s new book is called One Red Shoe: The Story of Corporate America’s First Woman. Alongside her husband Jack, Peg has four children and nine grandchildren. You’ll enjoy this insightful conversation about what it takes to persevere when the odds may be against you, to challenge the status quo, outperform, and break through boundaries.

“Authenticity and relevancy are easy to connect back to the business when you have people who represent the diversity of our consumers.”

Kevin Shapiro is Coty’s SVP of US Marketing at Consumer Beauty at Coty, where he manages a large portfolio of consumer brands, including Sally Hansen and CoverGirl. Kevin has led beauty brands across a number of iconic global companies, including L’Oreal, Revlon, Elizabeth Arden and Procter & Gamble — where he served as brand manager on The Art of Shaving and Pantene.  Having received his MBA from the University of Southern California, and studied business at Georgetown, Kevin actually got started in the Automotive industry working for Edmunds.  Kevin grew up in Mexico and brings his fluency in Spanish and a multicultural mindset to everything he does. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation on authentic brand building, representation, and the power of learning and listening in the ever changing  beauty industry.

“When people learn and feel valued, they want to make a difference and help each other. And when that comes alive, amazing things happen.”

Jon Moeller is P&G’s current CEO & Chairman. Jon has been an integral part of P&G's leadership team for over two decades, developing strategies that P&G people are executing with excellence to drive the company’s growth today. Prior to becoming CEO, Jon served as P&G’s Chief Operating Officer for six years, and also held the role of P&G’s Chief Financial Officer for more than twelve years Since joining P&G in 1988 as a cost analyst, Jon has held various senior leadership roles in categories, sectors and regions, including assignments in China, as the company’s Treasurer, Global Beauty, Health, Feminine Care Finance Senior VP, and Corporate Forecasting & Analysis. Jon is active in the business, civic and cultural leadership of Greater Cincinnati, serving in an advisory role on local Boards and is a Trustee Emeritus and Former Chairman of the Cincinnati Art Museum Board of Trustees. In this P&G Alumni Enrichment webinar conversation on meeting the moment - Jon talks about Jon talks about the journey that P&G has been on recent years - and looks ahead to the future. 

"If you're in a position to improve others’ lives, then that is your duty."

Paul Polman is Unilever’s former CEO (2009-2018), and currently co-founder of IMAGINE, where he is mobilizing businesses to tackle climate change and global inequality. At Unilever, Paul created (and proved) a long-term approach to global problems can also drive business performance. Prior to Unilever, he was Nestle’s CFO & Head of Americas. And Paul got his start at P&G, where he spent 27 years rising through the ranks ultimately leading Europe for P&G.

Paul continues to be active on the world stage, bridging the private/public sectors. Alongside the UN Secretary General, he helped develop the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Paul is chair of the International Chamber of Commerce, The B Team, Saïd Business School and Vice-Chair of the UN Global Compact. The Financial Times declared Paul "a standout CEO of the past decade” - as he is a leading proponent that business should be a force for good, 

Paul shares how one person - alone or at companies - can challenge the status quo to meaningfully tackle some of the world’s biggest problems. His stories and perspectives will inspire you to be the change you want to see in the world.

"Some have to carry more weight than others - everybody's got to do their part to try to lighten their load."

Linda Clement-Holmes served as P&G’s Chief Diversity Officer AND P&G’s Chief Information Officer - significantly elevating the company’s efforts and standing in the space of Diversity & Inclusion. Starting as a systems analyst in 1983, Linda has led a global career as an “executive of firsts” - the first Black female Senior VP, and later President. Linda’s been named one of Computerworld’s Premier 100 IT Leaders, Black Enterprise magazine’s Top Executives, and Working Mother’s “Working Mothers of the Year,” among many other honors. Linda is an active active Board leader among many business and community organizations, is a graduate of Purdue University, and a proud mother of two accomplished sons

In a candid conversation about authenticity and courage, Linda speaks about her personal - and professional - experiences in race, and comments on the unique moment we face today. Linda shares how she works everyday to lighten the load of others, and gets everyone to do their part.

This episode originally aired in August 2020

“Make every decision in your career on the basis of values and principles, and you will be successful.”

Fernando Aguirre is the former CEO of Chiquita Brands International, and currently a Professional Baseball Owner - as CEO of the Erie SeaWolves (AA affiliate for the Detroit Tigers), and Vice-chair of Myrtle Beach Pelicans (Advanced A affiliate of the Chicago Cubs). Fernando also owned a minority position in the Cincinnati Reds for 14 years before divesting in 2019. Fernando got his start at P&G - where he worked for 23+ years - during which he was President of P&G Brazil.

Fernando currently serves on several boards - some of which include CVS Health, Synchrony Financial, and Duke’s Fuqua school of business. He’s previously served on the boards of Aetna, Coca Cola, Levi’s, Univision, and USC’s Marshall School of Business. Fernando’s been active in the Coach K Center on Leadership and Ethic, the International Board of the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, received the NFL's Hispanic Heritage Leadership award in 2011. AND - He was the first Hispanic CEO to participate in CBS’s Undercover Boss. In a spanning conversation of fantastic stories, get ready for some lessons learned across cultures, and around the world.

This is a replay from one of our earliest episodes in 2021 - celebrating Hispanic P&G Alumni leadership this Hispanic Heritage Month. Got a favorite past guest, or idea for a future “Learnings from Leaders” episode? Reach out at pgalumpod@gmail.com

“The thing that terrifies you the most is where all the gold is — and my experience is when you bust through, there's really incredible things on the other side.”

Katherine Vellinga is the Co-founder and CEO of Zirkova, an award-winning ultra-premium vodka brand. She is a Ukrainian Canadian who first pursued a career with P&G in Product Supply but after the fall of the Soviet Union, she left P&G and moved to a newly independent Ukraine. This is where Katherine developed her love for the origins and birthplace of vodka and was compelled to share this remarkable story of women Master Distillers, classical methods, and extraordinary spirits. Zirkova is now the top-selling vodka produced in Ukraine that is sold in Canada. More than just a brand, Katherine's vision for Zirkova is a reflection of her own beliefs, of standing for the freedom to be and celebrate who you are, to toast and acknowledge others, and to create special moments that bring people together, so that everyone feels like they are part of one table.  You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about creating moments that unite, not allowing fear to guide our decisions and creating a life by design vs default.

“ 'Yes, and...' is a kind of courage. Only failure allows us to begin again more intelligently.”

Emily Chang is a seasoned marketer with 20+ years of experience across the US and China. She’s currently the CEO of Wunderman Thompson West, and was previously the CEO of McCann Worldgroup China. Emily served as Starbucks SVP of Marketing, and earlier as CMO of Starbucks China. She was the Chief Commercial Officer at Intercontinental Hotels Group, and Apple’s head of Asia retail marketing. Emily got her start at P&G, spending 11 years working across multiple business units. Emily’s spoken at conferences around the world - including Fortune Most Powerful Women’s Summit, C2 in Montréal, and has delivered three TEDx talks. Emily’s also the author of the book “The Spare Room: Define Your Social Legacy to Live a More Intentional Life and Lead with Authentic Purpose.”  Emily lives with her husband and daughter, and over the years, has shared her spare room with sixteen young people, five dogs, one turtle, one guinea pig, and 129 snails. You can learn more about Emily’s work at social-legacy.com. In our candid conversation, Emily shares how her immigrant upbringing, curiosity and willingness to take risks has led her professional career, and personal purpose. 

This episode originally aired in March 2021

“Finding your voice in an organization is not easy. Great leaders gave me a push when I needed the push. So now I need to do the same - giving others their voice.”

Oya Canbas is Global Brand Director and I&D Lead for Bayer Consumer Health — leading Bayer’s biggest nutritional brand, Elevit, globally which has a purpose of giving every baby best start in life. She is also the global lead in Inclusion and Diversity. In her 8 years in Bayer Consumer Health, Oya held two GM roles in UK and Ireland, as well as in Turkey. Prior to Bayer, she established her career at Gillette and then in Procter and Gamble for 18 years in leadership roles across Turkey, the UK and Russia on brands like Pampers, Ariel, Fairy, Always, Head & Shoulders, Gillette and Oral-B. Born in South Africa, raised in Turkey, and now living in the UK, Oya is a is a passionate leader and brand builder — and also a proud mother of two children. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about being a passionate learner, developing high performing teams, and bringing out the best in people.

“Stay above the line - take ownership of your choices, and control what you can control.”

Noel Geoffroy is Sanofi’s North America Head of Consumer Healthcare Business -  responsible for commercial operations for Sanofi’s portfolio of consumer healthcare brands including Allegra®, Icy Hot®, Gold Bond® and Ducolax®. Noel joined Sanofi in January 2019 from Kellogg’s where she rose through the ranks to President of US Frozen Foods - taking an underperforming business and growing it to the fastest-growing division globally. Noel also held key leadership positions at the H.J. Heinz Co, and started her career at P&G on marketing roles on many leading brands.

Noel studied language and international business at Clemson University, received her MBA from  the University of Virginia Darden School of Business, and was a Fulbright Scholar. An accomplished consumer products executive recognized for her commitment to business growth, capability-building, and cultural innovation. You’ll enjoy this fun, candid conversation across topics ranging from overcoming imposter syndrome, the band Journey, and the importance of executive coaching.

“Share good moments, but also pass on learnings where things did NOT go great - for experience and learning that will benefit others.”

Yolanda Talamo is The Heineken Company’s Chief People Officer. She joined Heineken in 2017 as SVP Human Resources for the Americas, but during the pandemic she assumed responsibility for all crisis management and related plans during COVID-19. Prior to Heineken, Yolanda was an SVP of Human Resources for SAB Miller, and spent 18 years at P&G, working in senior HR roles in Latin America and North America, as well as roles in marketing and consumer research. Yolanda has a proven track record of transforming organizations, developing executives and human resource organizations and delivering high performing teams with profitable business results. Yolanda was born in Venezuela, and holds American and Italian citizenships. She serves on several boards both in the U.S. and around the world and is seen as a positive and trusted force for change across organizations. In this candid conversation, you’ll hear not just about Yolanda’s accomplishments, but also her experiences with setbacks — and how she’s continued to use them as fuel for next steps and learning, as so many things in life are not a one-way door...

“ These obelisks are the world's first globally distributed product. Layers and layers of history - these obelisks moved around and stand in modern societies — that's a story to tell.”

Mark Ciccone is a P&G Alum and author of the new book “OBELISK ODYSSEY: 26 Ancient Monoliths, 4 Continents, and 1 Monumental Search for Meaning.” With a presence on four continents, the 26 surviving granite monuments are history's most mysterious objects. and meaningful man made objects, each with its own voice and message for the world. Mark set out to see each one, embarking on a six month, 25, 000 mile odyssey from his town of Boston to Egypt, England, Italy, Israel, Turkey, Lebanon, and beyond, to discover what these ancient voices have to say about religion, technology, tribalism, and conflicts of all kinds. You can purchase OBELISK ODYSSEY here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCKP9PNL

After 32 years with P&G, Mark became a consultant, first with the Monitor Group in Cambridge, Massachusetts, then as President of Retail Net Group, a boutique consulting firm specializing in retail innovation. Mark also is an instructor at Duquesne University’s semester abroad program in Rome where he has taught several undergraduate business classes. In semi retirement, Mark found meaning lying in the stone quarries of North Africa, the Egyptian obelisk. In this conversation amongst longtime Alum friends, you’ll hear about Mark + Qaisar’s many adventures, conversations, and reflections across the world.

Hosting this conversation is longtime friend of the pod Qaisar Shareef, a fellow P&G alum and author, who’s led many parts of the organization from Pakistan to Ukraine to the US. This is a feature of an Alumni Leader’s published thought leadership. Got an idea for a future “Learnings from Leaders” episode - reach out at pgalumpod@gmail.com

“Being an entrepreneur gives you life and business experiences you don’t see on the corporate side. Those can make you a better business leader.”

Bob Gilbreath is an accomplished entrepreneur - currently the CEO & Co-founder of Hearty - a professional recommendation network where great people and companies find each other. Bob was previously the Co-Founder and CEO of Ahalogy, a leading influencer marketing company with clients such as P&G, Coca-Cola and Kroger - ultimately acquired by Quotient technologies. And before jumping into startups, Bob was a partner at Bridge Worldwide, a leading digital agency acquired by WPP to become POSSIBLE, where Bob served as Chief Strategy Officer. Bob literallywrote the book on ‘Marketing with Meaning’ (McGraw-Hill). Bob also worked at P&G on big brands like Tide but also launching new innovations like Fit Fruit & Vegetable Wash, Mr. Clean Magic Eraser and Mr. Clean Auto Dry. - for which he was named an AdAge Top 50 Marketer. Bob has an MBA in Marketing from NYU/Stern and a BA in Economics from Duke University. A husband, father, mentor, avid reader and writer, Bob also may or may not be able to play the guitar. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about what it really means to be an entrepreneur, and the real dividend that comes from challenging yourself every day. 

" I knew the why about my job, the why about lots of things in life. I hadn't really given thought to what I would call the deep questions of life. I started thinking about helping others in a fresh way.”

Denis Beausejour is an Author, Executive, Pastor, Papa (and Grandpapa) based in Cincinnati, OH. Denis recently published his first book, “The Biggest Idea Ever.” Denis started his career at P&G, where over the course of 22 years served in a variety of marketing and advertising rules, including executive assignments in Canada, Australia, Japan, China, and the US where he was the VP of Advertising before retiring. Following a spiritual adventure, Denis left P&G and completed seminary at Trinity Evangelical Divinity School in Chicago, then led Answers for Life, the ministry of Dr. Henry Cloud before becoming Senior Pastor at Mariemont Church before retiring in 2022. Denis shares not just about his P&G career progression, but also about the makings and execution of a big career pivot that left some of his colleagues baffled, and the importance of passing down wisdom to the next generation of leaders, which in Denis’ case, is through his book. Denis has been married to his wife Marianne for 42 years, and enjoys spending time with his 4 children and 10 grandchildren, with their eleventh on the way. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about making big changes to lead a fulfilling life.

“You have to just say what's most important to you, and then...try to live that truth if you can.”

Meg Whitman is the CEO of Quibi, a new video platform of “quick bites” of mobile content.

Meg started her career at P&G in marketing and moved on to Executive level positions at Hasbro, Disney, and Bain before becoming the CEO of eBay (1998-2008), and then HP (2011-2015). Meg talks about making choices, the importance of cultivating relationships, and her experiences as a rising female leader - in business and politics - and how she’s seen the work environment change in her forty-year career.

Learn More About Our Alumni Network:
https://www.pgalums.com/

“When you meet resistance - teach. Because one of you doesn't have the context that the other one has. Rather than debate and clash - better to explain why it is.”

Kyle Schlegel, is Weber Inc’s VP of Americas Marketing and Direct-to-Consumer - where he helps bring to life the most innovative, legendary grills in the world.  Prior to Weber, Kyle spent three years at Louisville Slugger before its acquisition by Wilson Sporting Goods, where he then led all marketing strategy and execution across the Wilson Racquet Sports portfolio, the #1 iconic name in tennis. And Kyle spent thirteen years at P&G in brand management on brands like Herbal Essences, Old Spice, Aussie, and Wella.  Kyle is also the recipient of the CMO Club’s Rising Star Award and AdAge’s 40 Under 40. Kyle now lives just outside of Chicago with his wife, daughter, and pub. While sports plays a different role in life today, Schlegel still fits it in wherever he can among other priorities in life, such as friends, family, faith and serving others. You’ll enjoy this candid, vulnerable, and insightful conversation about Kyle’s journey from Kentucky farmboy to Chicago professional.

“Democracy works best when every eligible voter has an opportunity to have their voice. American business is built upon having a stable democracy.”

Chip Bergh is President & CEO of Levi Strauss & Company — and a returning podcast guest (2020). Chip spent 28-years at P&G in leadership roles from Folgers to Swiffer, from Asia to Gillette and Old Spice. He got his start in the US Army as a paratrooper, rising to the rank of Captain.

Chip came back on the pod to talk about something he's passionate about: the evolving role of the CEO - going beyond the P&L to advocacy and activism. Chip learned the idea of "the Responsible CEO" from P&G's former CEO John Smale (1981-1990), arguably one of the most influential leaders of the modern era. Chip shares his thoughts from the new book about John Smale “Here Forever: The Timeless Impact of John Smale on Procter & Gamble, General Motors and the Purpose and Practice of Business." Chip also discusses the issues he and Levi's are active in: voter registration, women's rights, ending gun violence and climate change. While many of us have strong beliefs on these topics, the goal of this discussion was not to push an agenda, but rather to focus on the nonpartisan business reasons for taking a stand on certain issues. Chip shares stories of not just his own style of values-driven leadership, but also how he’s continued - through humility and humor - Levi’s tradition of social activism.

“Making improvements is challenging. But we can't give up and we've got to learn how to do it better.” 

“Speak, engage, help, be helped. Be part of society. Be an optimist towards the fact that people can change, that  people can learn.”

John Pepper, P&G’s former CEO, and Ursula Burns, Xerox’s former CEO, sit down for a candid conversation on race, understanding and our discourse with each other. This is a conversation the two longtime friends have been having for years - alongside many of us. While John needs no introduction to many, Ursula’s impressive career is worth sharing...

Ursula M. Burns is the Retired Chairman and CEO of Xerox Corporation and VEON Limited — and among the first Black women to become CEO of a Fortune 500 company. Ursula is also a founding partner of Integrum Holdings, Non-Executive Chairman of Teneo Holdings LLC, and the Executive Chairman of Plum Acquisition Corp. At Xerox, Ursula served from 2009-2017, having joined as a summer intern in 1980, after which she rose through the ranks across corporate services, manufacturing and product development. Ursula also serves on several corporate boards, including Uber Technologies, Exxon Mobil, Endeavor Group Holdings, Waystar and Hear.com Ursula’s also involved in leadership counsel for the Ford Foundation, MIT, the Cornell Tech Board, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Mayo Clinic, among others.

From 2009-2016, President Barack Obama appointed Ursula to lead the White House national program on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM). Ursula also led the President’s Export Council from 2010 - 2016. In February 2022, Burns joined the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Advisory Council on Supply Chain Competitiveness. Ursula is a mechanical engineering alumni of Columbia University and NYU - and she’s a member of the National Academy of Engineering, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, the Royal Academy of Engineering and the G7 Gender Equity Advisory Council.

Originally recorded on February 25, 2022 - this is an important conversation we hope will make many think and feel more deeply. While each of our guests are part of some great organizations who support the sharing of our views, these are the views of our guests alone. Got ideas for future deep dive topics with past and future guests? Reach out to pgalumpod@gmail.com

"It's all about speed - learning fast and connecting the dots into greater success."

Antonio Sciuto is an SVP in the Office of the CEO at Salesforce.com - the leading cloud-based software company. Antonio is dedicated to inspire and enable the C-Suite to create more personalized customer experiences. Prior to joining Salesforce, Antonio spent eight years at Nestle - as the CMO of Nestle Waters, and before that, leading the entire company’s eCommerce strategies. He also spent 3 years with McKinsey and Company, and of course, got his start at P&G - rising through the sales ranks of Market Strategy & Planning and Customer Business Development.

Antonio shares some great perspective on the idea of generosity in leadership - and the important role mentorship and family have provided a competitive advantage during the course of his career.

“It’s powerful to say ‘I don't know everything’ - I love an organization of thinkers, creators, and people unafraid to be accountable for ideas.”

Brain Niccol is the Chairman and CEO of Chipotle Mexican Grill - driving brand strategy and performance of over 2,700 restaurants across North America and Europe. Chipotle is a purpose-driven brand so many of us love - focused on fresh, responsible ingredients that respect the animals, land, and people who produce them. Prior to leading Chipotle, Brian was CEO of Taco Bell - the culmination of more than a decade @ YUM Brands in senior roles on Taco Bell & Pizza Hut - including VP, CMO, and General Manager. Brian got his start at P&G - where he spent nineyears rising through the ranks of brand management - working on brands like Scope, Thermacare, Vicks, Pringles. Brian studied Engineering @ Miami University in Ohio, and got his MBA from the University of Chicago. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about not just some of Brian’s earliest lessons in business, but also about how he’s always staying curious - and doing what’s right for our communities.

Tim Ferriss is an American entrepreneur, author, and podcaster - best known for his book: the Four Hour Work Week, and his podcast: the Tim Ferriss Show. Tim has been listed as one of fast company's most innovative business people. Tim is an early stage technology investor and advisor, and is known in media as “the Oprah of Audio” due to the influence of his business and interview podcast being the first to exceed 200 million downloads. Tim is the author of four Number One New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestsellers, including the Four Hour Work Week. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about balancing work and life, health and wellness, and many other topics. 

But Tim is not exactly a P&G Alumni, so what’s the deal? Alongside our partners at P&G, we’re thrilled to share another episode of P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast - available exclusively each week to P&G Employees at GetMoreThanSoap.com. On “More Than Soap,” P&G shares weekly conversations with Inspiring guests, unique perspectives, and unconventional ideas. “More Than Soap” is P&G’s official internal podcast - available  to all 100,000 P&G employees worldwide, and hosted by Dorion Positano, P&G’s Director of New Business and Content Innovation. Interested in learning more about P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast, or P&G Studios, can reach out directly to Dorion on LinkedIn. GetMoreThanSoap.com

"You’re always running an all-volunteer army - keep your people inspired." 

Bracken Darrell is President & CEO of Logitech - a company he joined in 2012 - where he’s been the driver for Logitech’s continued growth and profitability, leading the brand vision and company operations. Prior to joining Logitech, Bracken spent a decade in executive roles @ Whirlpool, Braun, and General Electric - and also worked in brand management at P&G. Prior to receiving his MBA from Harvard, Bracken worked at Arthur Anderson and PepsiCo.

Bracken shares his philosophies on humor and motivation in the workplace. Anyone who’s seen him talk knows he speaks his mind, and is a values-driven, people-motivated leader - something needed now more than ever in the business world. You’ll love the candor of this conversation!

“Be intellectually honest in any decision - otherwise you only see the answer that you want to see.”

Charlotte Otto served as P&G’s Global External Relations Officer for thirteen years, and later as Senior Corporate Advisor to PR industry leader Weber Shandwick for six years. At P&G - Charlotte led the company's external relations activities worldwide -  including media relations, employee + shareholder communications, government +community relations, and corporate contributions. Charlotte led a 33 year career at P&G, rising through the ranks of Brand Management and Corporate Comms, and was the trusted counselor to five P&G CEOs. In fact, Charlotte was P&G’s first female corporate officer. Charlotte has received numerous industry accolades - including being named Woman of the Year AND Corporate Woman of the Year by the Cincinnati Enquirer, as well as receiving the Matrix Award for Public Relations, and the prestigious Paladin award. Charlotte’s a proud Purdue Alum, where she received her Bachelors and Masters — and she even studied at the Culinary Institute of America. In a great conversation about intention - and serendipity - you’ll learn about the power of embracing a path never imagined, and removing our own blinders to be truly intellectually honest and objective about whatever situations we may face.

“When you face challenges, the more you imagine finding positive outcomes is important to finding a different solution.”

Alicia Enciso is Nestlé USA’s first ever Chief Marketing Officer - leveraging marketing as a force for good across the industry - in multicultural marketing, plant-based innovation, ​​and scaling mentorship  for underrepresented groups. Alicia has served at Nestlé since 2013, starting as a VP of Communications in Mexico. Prior to Nestlé Alicia was Managing Director of the Zyman Group - a media consultancy where she led the group’s operations in Mexico developing growth strategies for Fortune 500 companies. And Alicia spent eleven years at P&G - starting in Latin America and rising through the ranks across Personal Care, Home Care and Paper Divisions, where in 1997 she led P&G’s then-largest Latin American acquisition, creating a new Paper Division for the region. 

Alicia studied at Instituto Tecnológico Autónomo de México and Harvard University - and serves as the Vice-Chair of the ANA’s Alliance for Inclusive and Multicultural Marketing. In this role - she works with fellow industry leaders to help drive equality, inclusion and systemic change in the marketing ecosystem and society. You’ll enjoy this positive, candid conversation about leaning into challenging opportunities and learning through action, positivity, and perseverance. 

“Get uncomfortable. Don't feel like you can’t keep creating new value in an environment of curiosity.”

Suzy Deering is Ford’s global Chief Marketing Officer - leading Ford’s North America marketing and driving strategy across the company’s global business units – to constantly enhance and release the huge customer and company value across Ford’s iconic brands. Suzy was previously global CMO of eBay, where she helped revive the company’s brand and drive sharply higher revenue. She also served as CEO of Moxie, a technology-led marketing agency, and spent many years in senior media and brand roles at Verizon and Home Depot. And she actually got her start at the Walt Disney Company, and studied Advertising at the University of Georgia. Suzy’s been recognized as an AdAge “40 Under 40” and as one of Business Insider’s “Top 50 Most Innovative CMOs.”

While Suzy may not be a P&G Alumni - she is a purpose driven leader. Suzy also happens to be a longtime friend of fellow P&G Alumni leader (and past podcast guest) Kirk Perry, now CEO of IRI Worldwide, who joins for the first of many “deep dives” - where past guests invite non-Alumni leaders to a candid conversation on their leadership journeys.

Which purpose driven leaders do YOU know and want to hear? Let us know at pgalumpod@gmail.com, and who knows, maybe you’ll hear them on our podcast soon!

“ Money and time are eerily linked. There's free time, leisure time, time off, flex time, and down time. When we manage ourselves well, we have more freedom and better lives.”

Bob Gilbreath is longtime friend of the Pod, and fellow P&G Alum - who's also a repeat startup founder with two exits. His latest post “Mind on your Money, Time and Freedom” is a continuation of last week’s post on time/mind management. For us, we need to remember that money and time are often linked. We spend time, save time, invest time, and buy time. Freedom is entwined with time, too. There’s free time, leisure time, time off, flex time, and downtime. Bob shares ways to improve your life by making better daily decisions about time, money, and freedom. From the basic, tactical choices — to laddering up to big-picture strategy with a personal story from his childhood that still drives him today.

Bob now serves as Co-Founder and CEO of Hearty, a people-tech company, as well as a few other interesting ventures. While at P&G, Bob worked on brands like Tide and Mr. Clean - and Mr. Clean Auto Dry, and even Fit fruit and vegetable wash. Bob authored books and shares real-life stories of his business ups-and-downs in his weekly newsletter “the Workaround” - which you can subscribe to @ beheartly.substack.com

This is a feature of an Alumni Leader’s frequently published thought leadership. Got an idea for a future “Learnings from Leaders” episode - reach out at pgalumpod@gmail.com

"There's this bittersweet tradition that has existed across time and our world - it's the pathway to creativity and connection and transcendence.”

Susan Cain is the author of the bestseller Quiet: The Power of Introverts in A World That Can’t Stop Talking, which has been translated into 40 languages, is in its seventh year on the New York Times best seller list, and was named the #1 best book of the year by Fast Company magazine, which also named Cain one of its Most Creative People in Business. Susan’s latest book, Bittersweet: How Sorrow and Longing Make Us Whole, is also a #1 New York Times Bestseller, and explores the power of the bittersweet personality, revealing a misunderstood side of mental health and creativity, while offering a roadmap to facing grief in order to live life to the fullest.

But Susan is not exactly a P&G Alumni, so what’s the deal? Alongside our partners at P&G, we’re thrilled to share another episode of P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast - available exclusively each week to P&G Employees at GetMoreThanSoap.com. On “More Than Soap,” P&G shares weekly conversations with Inspiring guests, unique perspectives, and unconventional ideas. “More Than Soap” is P&G’s official internal podcast - available  to all 100,000 P&G employees worldwide, and hosted by Dorion Positano, P&G’s Director of New Business and Content Innovation. Interested in learning more about P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast, or P&G Studios, can reach out directly to Dorion on LinkedIn. GetMoreThanSoap.com

“We shouldn't follow leaders, mentors, and gurus, but we should listen for their words that affect us. See if they spark insight or truth for you. Keep what works, leave the rest behind. “

Bob Gilbreath is longtime friend of the Pod, and fellow P&G Alum - who's also a repeat startup founder with two exits. His latest post “Don't Follow Mentors, Seek Signposts” shares a personal anecdotes that is applicable to us all. There are countless people, living and dead, who have shared a scrap of useful advice that helped in a moment and has sticks with us over time. These words - or signposts - can literally re-shape our way of seeing the world, making us better at work and life. Bob now serves as Co-Founder and CEO of Hearty, a people-tech company, as well as a few other interesting ventures. While at P&G, Bob worked on brands like Tide, Mr. Clean, and more. Bob authored books and shares real-life stories of his business ups-and-downs in his weekly newsletter “the Workaround” - which you can subscribe to @ beheartly.substack.com

This is a feature of an Alumni Leader’s frequently published thought leadership. Got an idea for a future “Learnings from Leaders” episode - reach out at pgalumpod@gmail.com

"What gets made gets affected by the quality of the insights."

Edward Norton is an actor, filmmaker, and activist. He has been nominated for three Academy Awards for his work in Primal Fear, American History X, and Birdman and has starred in several other acclaimed films including Fight Club, The Illusionist, and Moonrise Kingdom. Edward is also a UN Ambassador for Biodiversity, a successful investor (Uber, CrowdRise, and Kensho — acquired by SAP for $550 million), and deeply involved in wilderness conservation. In 2015, Edward co-founded EDO with PhD economist, poet, and entrepreneur Daniel Nadler. EDO is a leading TV outcomes company that works with top brands, networks, and Hollywood studios — from AT&T and Disney, to Univision, and of course P&G — using cutting edge data science to predictively power the success of marketing, research, and creative professionals. In a candid conversation ranging from David Bowie to data science, you’ll enjoy hearing about stretching your limits beyond what’s expected of you — across many paths of creativity, business, and entrepreneurship. If you're ever driven to do something more than your day job, or what the world expects of you - AND you happen to be a bit of a nerd about marketing and tech - this is the podcast episode for you.

But Edward Norton is not exactly a P&G Alumni, so what’s the deal? Alongside our partners at P&G, we’re thrilled to share another episode of P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast - available exclusively each week to P&G Employees at GetMoreThanSoap.com. On “More Than Soap,” P&G shares weekly conversations with Inspiring guests, unique perspectives, and unconventional ideas. “More Than Soap” is P&G’s official internal podcast - available  to all 100,000 P&G employees worldwide, and hosted by Dorion Positano, P&G’s Director of New Business and Content Innovation. Interested in learning more about P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast, or P&G Studios, can reach out directly to Dorion on LinkedIn. GetMoreThanSoap.com

“Create room for different voices around the table - to remove unconscious bias even among allies of equality.”

Sylvie Moreau, is Coty’s former President of Professional Beauty, where she ran a  $1.8 Billion portfolio with brands like Wella, OPI, and ghd - where she recently successfully led Wella to once again becoming an independent business. Sylvie’s a beauty business veteran having spent twenty-two years with P&G working in roles at the global and local level - on brands like Pantene, Olay, Ariel, and of course Wella. Syvlie is based in Europe, with global experience - and with an MBA from ESSEC + Masters in International Business from the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH) in Norway. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about Sylvie’s experiences across cultures, and as a female leader - especially the approach she had to take as she approached more senior leadership levels - where there always weren’t as many female voices in the room. You’ll also hear perspective about finding your place professionally - how it’s important to make business personal - at every level, with stakeholders like your customers, your investors, and most of all your team.

“Integrity can be a competitive advantage.”
Ed Artzt served as P&G’s CEO & Chairman from 1990 to 1995 - during which sales grew to $33 billion, and the company grew well above historic averages. Joining in 1953, Ed led growth on brands like Comet, Zest, Charmin, Bounty, and Folgers. Ed has also served on the boards of American Express, Delta Airlines, GTE and Teradyne. He was active in foreign affairs and an influential advocate of world trade, and on President Clinton’s Advisory Committee on Trade Policy and Negotiations.

Now splitting his time between Florida & Wyoming, Ed shared his perspectives on the importance of storytelling, and the competitive advantage of integrity.

“We’re in a unique moment where we need to dream big about how things should work - where everybody wins and can take part”

Lisa Gevelber is Google’s Chief Marketing Officer for the Americas - leading Marketing for flagship Google products like Search, Maps, Ads & Commerce, YouTube, Play, Chromebooks and Android. In 2017, Lisa founded Grow with Google, Google’s $1 Billion commitment to ensure the opportunities created by technology are available to everyone - which has helped more 6 million Americans grow their skills, careers, and businesses. Under her leadership, Grow with Google launched Google Career Certificates, which provide onramps to in-demand, high paying jobs for people without college degrees. These certificates have provided significant upward mobility to tens of thousands and counting. Lisa also leads Google for Startups, which levels the playing field for entrepreneurs globally by supporting underrepresented founders.

Prior to joining Google in 2010, Lisa spent nine years in senior management roles @ Intuit, as well as leading at startups and nonprofits. And of course, Lisa got her start at P&G in brand management where over 6 years she led a $400 million portfolio of brands. Lisa serves on the Council for Foreign Relations, is an inventor on 6 patents, and holds a degree from the University of Michigan. Lisa also is a proud mom of two girls and lives in the Bay Area with her family, where she’s an avid hiker and passionate world traveler. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about making an impact with the work you do and how we can face the big big challenges in our economy when it comes to equity and equality - in and outside of our jobs, to work together to ensure everybody wins

"This type of work gives us agency — things become a choice versus us becoming victims of life led on autopilot.” 

Roula Clerc-Nassar is an seasoned leader and coach - as well as an expert on human understanding and insightful research. Roula’s focus is growing people and building high performing teams, as well as applying neuroscience to coaching to help create transformation and lasting change. Before founding Ellumine Consulting & Coaching, Roula spent 24 years in 2 leading Multinational companies: 

PepsiCo and Procter & Gamble, where she began her career in Morocco before moving to the UK and later Switzerland. Her last position was Vice President of Insights at PepsiCo Europe. She is a national of 3 countries in 3 different continents and has worked with clients and teams across the globe. You’ll enjoy this candid coaching conversation on how to reconcile values that comes into conflict, and makeing thoughtful, intentional choices for work and life. 

This is a continuation of our series with P&G Alumni Coaching where leading Alumni will dive deep on relevant topics. Just as professional athletes have a coach to help them perform at their best, coaching can help you thrive in career and life life, through powerful questioning, exploration, and action planning. P&G Alums can learn more and sign up for their first free first session @ coaching.pgalums.com.

“Start canceling out those lanes that aren't feeding you well - that aren't giving you ROI - that are holding you back.”

Matthew McConaughey is an Academy Award–winning actor and producer, and the author of the NY Times bestselling book GREENLIGHTS, among many other things — but Matthew is NOT a P&G Alumni. So what’s the deal? Alongside our partners at P&G, we’re thrilled to share a sneak peak of P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast - available exclusively each week to P&G Employees at GetMoreThanSoap.com. On “More Than Soap,” P&G shares weekly conversations with Inspiring guests, unique perspectives, and unconventional ideas.

As one of the world's most compelling public figures - Matthew McConaughey needs no introduction. Beyond his entertainment work, he’s an active philanthropist with his Just Keep Livin’ Foundation, a professor at the University of Texas in his hometown of Austin, a brand ambassador for Lincoln Motor Company, an owner of the Major League Soccer club Austin FC, and co-creator and creative director of his favorite bourbon on the planet, Wild Turkey Longbranch. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation on achieving a greater ROI on life - by catching more greenlights—and realizing that the yellows and reds eventually turn green too.

“More Than Soap” is P&G’s official internal podcast - available  to all 100,000 P&G employees worldwide, and hosted by Dorion Positano, P&G’s Director of New Business and Content Innovation. Interested in learning more about P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast, or P&G Studios, can reach out directly to Dorion on LinkedIn. GetMoreThanSoap.com

“For the time that you're chief executive or leading a business, you are the soul of the company.”

A.G. Lafley and Charlotte Otto return to our podcast — as two P&G Alumni whose career was directly and influenced by John Smale, and his unique style of leadership. A.G. Lafley served P&G’s CEO & Chairman twice - from 2000-2009 and 2013-2015, and Charlotte served as P&G’s Global External Relations Officer for thirteen years - the company’s first female corporate officer. Both have a lot to share about the purpose-inspired, caring, yet demanding and principled leader that was John Smale.

For this month’s podcasts, we'll be hearing reflections from leaders on John Smale, P&G's former Chairman & CEO, who led P&G from 1981-1990, and served as General Motors’ Chairman  from 1992-1995. These conversions are in honor o f the new book "Here Forever: The Timeless Impact of John Smale on Procter & Gamble, General Motors, and the Purpose and Practice of Business" (by Rob Garver), available now. While John Smale passed away in 2011 - he is arguably one the most influential leaders of the modern era, growing P&G more than six-fold in his tenure. And yet, Smale is largely unknown to many leaders guiding American and global businesses today. John's leadership in developing a vision for corporate purpose was decades ahead of its time. This was a book years in the making by not just the author, but many of some of the biggest leaders in business. “Here Forever” is a compelling and insightful read we’d highly recommend, and will make a great holiday gift for the admired, or aspiring leaders in your life. Pick up a copy wherever you get your favorite books

• Johnsmalehereforever.com
• goodreads.com/book/show/62350265-here-forever
• amazon.com/Here-Forever-Timeless-Practice-Business/dp/1667864068
• /bookshop.org/p/books/here-forever-the-timeless-impact-of-john-smale-on-procter-gamble-general-motors-and-the-purpose-and-practice-of-business/18846027?ean=9781667863818

“Honestly, if you could describe what you needed to a P&G technologist - it could be done.”

Gordon Brunner, was P&G’s Chief Technology Officer leading the company’s technical community, and even serving on P&G’s Board of Directors. Gordon initially joined the Company's Food Division in 1961 as a Process Engineer, progressing through R&D assignments with increasing responsibility and experience across food, laundry and cleaning. His work directly impacted many of P&G’s Billion Dollar brands. In 1976 Gordon  became head of all European R&D operations, and returned to the US soon becoming Senior Vice President of global R&D. Gordon led internal venture programs responsible for new products like Swiffer, Dryel, and Febreze, and growing P&G's life science and healthcare business.  Gordon was elected to the company Board in 1991, and in 1995, he accepted the U.S. Medal of Technology on behalf of P&G from President Bill Clinton. In 1999 Gordon became P&G’s Chief Technology Officer.

A native of Des Plaines, Illinois, Gordon studied Biochemical Engineering at the University of Wisconsin, and got his MBA from Xavier University. Since retiring - Gordon has remained quite busy leading ventures across academic, philanthropic and professional organizations - and ever the scientist/tinkerer - remaining very technically active in some of this passionate pursuits of golf, cooking, and fermentation.

You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about the importance of products, people, and thinking big - but also how this cutting edge work doesn’t matter if it’s divorced from business realities and consumer context. For Gordon, the power of people is paramount - you’ll appreciate his candor and perspective on the rich history of the company where he was such a big part.

“It is better to sleep well than to eat well. Knowing that you have done the right thing - there is nor price for that.”

Jorge Uribe served as P&G’s Global Productivity & Organization Transformation Officer until 2015. Mr. Uribe spent 33 years with Procter & Gamble, where he held roles as Group President, Marketing & Sales Vice President, and grew through numerous roles across  Switzerland, Central America, the Caribbean, Cyprus, Malaysia, the United Arab Emirates and Gulf Countries, Saudi Arabia and Colombia. Mr. Uribe serves  on the boards of a number of organizations including General Mills and previously the United Way Worldwide. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Xavier University and a bachelor degree in management engineering from Universidad Nacional de Colombia.  You’ll enjoy this candid conversation reflecting on an impressive career - from working on farms in Medellin, to a globe-spanning career - where Jorge demonstrates the power of always being your best self.

“What's really important is what you do and how you make people feel.”

John Pepper was the CEO & Chairman of P&G from (1995-2002), Chairman of the Board of the Walt Disney Company (2007-2012), and CEO/Chairman of the National Underground Railroad Museum Freedom Center (1995-2002).

Whether working across the table from Steve Jobs (Apple) and Bob Iger (Disney) or mentoring countless leaders in and out of P&G - John Pepper is one of the greats. You’ll learn about John’s fascinating personal and professional journey, the lessons he learned along the way, and his perspective on the world today.

Access The Extended John Pepper Interview Here: www.pgalums.com/podcast 

Learn More About Our Alumni Network:
https://www.pgalums.com/

“The purpose, values and principles — John Smale understood the importance of the soul of the company.”

Bob McDonald & Bob Gill are two P&G Alumni who share many things in common, least of which is their first name. The first is no stranger to this podcast — Bob McDonald, who served as P&G's former CEO from 2009-2013, and was the United States Secretary of Veterans Affairs from 2014-2017. And our second guest is another well known Alum to many P&G Executives — Bob GIll - who served at P&G for 28 years in many senior leadership positions - from 1974 to 2002, where he had more than a few interactions with John Smale. Both of this episode’s Bobs - McDonald and Gill — have a lot to share about the purpose-inspired, caring, yet demanding and principled leader that was John Smale.

For this month’s podcasts, we'll be hearing reflections from leaders on John Smale, P&G's former Chairman & CEO, who led P&G from 1981-1990, and served as General Motors’ Chairman  from 1992-1995. These conversions are in honor o f the new book "Here Forever: The Timeless Impact of John Smale on Procter & Gamble, General Motors, and the Purpose and Practice of Business" (by Rob Garver), available now. While John Smale passed away in 2011 - he is arguably one the most influential leaders of the modern era, growing P&G more than six-fold in his tenure. And yet, Smale is largely unknown to many leaders guiding American and global businesses today. John's leadership in developing a vision for corporate purpose was decades ahead of its time. This was a book years in the making by not just the author, but many of some of the biggest leaders in business. “Here Forever” is a compelling and insightful read we’d highly recommend, and will make a great holiday gift for the admired, or aspiring leaders in your life. Pick up a copy wherever you get your favorite books

• Johnsmalehereforever.com
• goodreads.com/book/show/62350265-here-forever
• amazon.com/Here-Forever-Timeless-Practice-Business/dp/1667864068
• /bookshop.org/p/books/here-forever-the-timeless-impact-of-john-smale-on-procter-gamble-general-motors-and-the-purpose-and-practice-of-business/18846027?ean=9781667863818

“People are the driving force that bring the brand to life...”
To mark our first year of amazing conversations with so many P&G Alumni Leaders - we take a quick (much needed) break to reflect, and share a preview of WHO's coming next. You’ll hear the voices of future guests from the NBA, Sanofi, Coty, the PGA, the Gap, Visa, Google, Diageo, Papa John’s, Chipotle, accomplished entrepreneurs, and many more of P&G’s biggest leaders from around the world. We can’t wait for you to hear what’s next, so be sure to leave us a review on your favorite podcasting app, and share Learnings from Leaders with all your friends - whether or not they worked at P&G :)

“That was the moment I realized that if you're able to articulate complex things in a very simple language, that's the ultimate goal – in arts, in literature, in business.”

Alyona Tkachenko is the CEO and cofounder of Nommi, a mobile WiFi hotspot that provides LTE data in over 100 countries. She also serves as the VP of Global Markets at Sergek Development. Prior to founding Nommi, Alyona was the head of marketing for Love to Code, a coding school for children in Kazakhstan. Alyona started her career at Procter & Gamble, working in CMK for sales and eCommerce. Alyona is a Forbes Asia 30 Under 30 for Consumer Technology and also a P&G Alumni Network’s Leader Under 40. She continues to focus on improving the quality of Computer Science education and digital literacy of Kazakhstani school children through the NGO StudyCS. Alyona graduated with a degree in Business Administration from Kazakh State University. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about doing what feels right in the moment, and owning those decisions for success.

TED talks are "Ideas Worth Spreading" - short talks and presentations that have lit up the internet since 2006. But did you know a # of Alums have shared TEDx talks at official events with their communities?

We're featuring THREE such TEDx talks from co-hosts - Andrew Tarvin, Ida Abdalkhani, and Rajiv Satyal — all of which have amassed more than a few views online - and share one important theme in common (a coincidence, we promise!). We guarantee you'll enjoy these talks, and hopefully learn a little something along the way. And if you're a P&G Alumni with a TEDx talk - shoot us a note - pgalumpod@gmail.com - and maybe we'll feature your TEDx talk on a future P&G Alumni Podcast!

• Andrew Tarvin:  "The Skill of Humor" - TEDxTAMU (June 2017) - https://youtu.be/MdZAMSyn_As
• Ida Abdalkhani: "Happier in 5 Minutes" - TEDxOhioStateUniversity (March 2015) - https://youtu.be/-HJG63EXCmw
• Rajiv Satyal: "Today's Jester: The Comedian" TEDxUCincinnati (June 2016) - https://youtu.be/rgAgwDTju-M

"Be bolder sooner - it's not just about my career, it’s about life in general.” 

Alex Keith leads Procter & Gamble’s global Beauty business: the world’s 4th largest beauty company, with a $15 billion portfolio with six billion dollar brands. Alex is the only female CEO of a top 5 beauty company. Since taking leadership of P&G’s Beauty portfolio in 2017, Alex has driven the sector’s turnaround. As Executive Sponsor for Corporate Sustainability, Alex works alongside P&G’s Chief Sustainability Officer to guide the Company’s sustainability progress. She is also the company’s Executive Sponsor of LGBTQ+ Equality & Inclusion. During Alex’s 34 years with P&G, she has worked in Product Supply, Brand Management and General Management, spanning multiple categories across Fabric Care and Beauty, in North America, Asia, and Europe regions. In 2020, Alex was elected to Thermo Fisher Scientific’s Board of Directors. A native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Alex holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering from the University of Arizona. She lives in Geneva, Switzerland with her husband, Chris Keith.

"Recruit the right people with the right principles."

Jorge Montoya was President of P&G Latin America from 1999-2004. Having spent 30 years rising through the ranks of P&G - his expertise extends across all international business. Jorge currently serves on the boards of Gap, Inc and Kroger - and was named among the 50 most important Hispanics in Business & Technology. His foundation with his wife supports underserved children’s education in Peru and Venezuela.

Jorge shares his story - growing up in Peru (the son of a teacher), becoming an All-America NCAA soccer player, and setting up a company in a foreign country. He shares the importance of building a business culture without compromising ethics and integrity. And ultimately, for Jorge, the most important results come from growing your business, and growing your organization.

This is a replay from one of our earliest episodes in 2020 - celebrating Hispanic P&G Alumni leadership this Hispanic Heritage Month. Got a favorite past guest, or idea for a future “Learnings from Leaders” episode? Reach out at pgalumpod@gmail.com

"A lot of these values and principles are very universal — it applies in China, but it applies anywhere.”

Trevor Lai is an award-winning entrepreneur, author and illustrator who published his first children's book at the age of seventeen. He is also the founder and CEO of Up Studios, a China-based production company — featured as one of the "Top 25 Animation Studios" in the world to watch by Animation Magazine. Up Studios - the creative force behind much loved Chinese shows like Piggy, Tomo and BOOMi - has received large investments from Chinese tech giant Tencent. When he’s not creating world-class animated stories, Trevor loves to play ice hockey in China and traveling around the world. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation about creativity, inspiration, and perseverance .

This is the first in our series of Learning from Leaders from China - hosted by P&G Alumni Emily Chang. Got an idea for a future “Learnings from Leaders” episode? Reach out at pgalumpod@gmail.com

Najoh Tita-Reid leads Marketing Reinvention at Logitech where she’s reimagining, redefining and reinventing the global marketing function across 120+ countries - reporting to the CEO. Najoh’s worked across in multinational roles across leading brands like Hero, Bayer, and Merck, after having spent 19 years at P&G - rising through the ranks of marketing and sales. Najoh earned an MBA from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University and a BA in English from Spelman College. She also completed the Executive Leadership Program at IMD in Lausanne, Switzerland, the Woman’s Executive Leadership Program at Simmons University and the Design Thinking program at the Stanford School of Design. As a member of The Executive Leadership Council, she serves on the International Steering Committee and the Community Service Committee. 

As an American who’s been living and working in Europe for more than a few years - Najoh’s currently based in Zurich with her husband and 2 kids. You’ll enjoy this candid conversation from the perspective of an American on the outside looking in - and about creating work/life harmony with feet on both sides of the world. 

“People want to be a part of the change. It’s important that allies are not only anti-racist, but accomplices.”

Tiyale Hayes is BET Network’s SVP of Brand Strategy & Marketing where he ensures the Viacom company advances business objectives and authentically connecting with African American audiences. Over his career, Tiyale has worked on some of the world’s biggest and best brands fueling his passion for authentic inclusion and empathy into brand building. Tiyale spent eight years at Johnson & Johnson in roles of increasing responsibility from sales to leading global insight development for a number of brands including Tylenol, Motrin, Listerine, and a number of Rx to OTC Switch initiatives. And during his six years at P&G, he led in Consumer Insights and Global Innovation groups on brands like Folgers, Pringles, Crest, Gillette and Old Spice.

Tiyale studied at Hampton University and received his MBA from Purdue. He is a frequent speaker at both private and industry conferences, leading thinking on how to create culture transformation and drive value for African Americans, Millennials, and LGBTQ+ populations. Tiyale serves on the board of the National Hampton Alumni Association and the non-profit Live Out Loud based in New York City.

You’ll enjoy this candid conversation spanning perspectives - with a focus on finding common threads that unite us, and moving ALL of us along the spectrum of ally to accomplice in actionable ways.

“You can have it all, but you can’t have it all at once. In the long view, it all balances out.”

Tiana Conley is Kellogg’s VP of Global Cereal where she is responsible for the $6 billion flagship portfolio with treasured brands such as Special K, Frosted Flakes, Froot Loops and Corn Flakes. Prior to joining Kellogg, she was Beam Suntory’s Marketing Director of global tequila, and held marketing roles at Kimberly Clark. At P&G , and held a variety of marketing roles at Kimberly-Clark. At P&G Tiana rose through the ranks of brand management on global skincare and Olay, and got her start as a senior R&D Engineer on Tide. She received Chemical Engineering from University of Illinois and her MBA from Xavier University. Tiana is based in Chicago and is mother of two children, Griffin and Ava. In a candid conversation on work and life - Tiana addresses head on the myth of work-life balance, and shares great perspective on making the right personal decisions in the context of a career.

“The one thing you can’t teach in a job to be successful has to come from within - desire."

James Michael Lafferty is the CEO of Fine Hygienic Holding - a leading CPG company across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, and USA - as well as an accomplished writer, coach, and athlete. Jim is an internationally-tenured leader whose career spans 3 decades and 5 continents. Jim served as CEO of British American Tobacco in the Philippines and Coca-Cola in Nigeria. He led a distinguished 24-year career at P&G, leading the company in both the Philippines and Poland, rising through the ranks in senior roles across Western Europe, Northern Africa, and the Middle East. Beyond being a dedicated husband and father of 5, Jim is also an accomplished coach and athlete - serving as a Coach of the Philippines Olympic Athletics team at the 2016 Rio Games, having run 30+ marathons, and was the 2017 Philippines National Champion in Powerlifting. Jim’s consulted with numerous Fortune 500 companies, and his many talks and lessons have inspired brand managers around the world. He currently lives in the United Arab Emirates.

"Diversity is a business strategy - it's not an HR program, it's not a nice to have." 

Virginia “Gina” Drosos, is the CEO of Signet Jewelers - the world's largest retailer of diamond jewellery - having served on the company’s Board since 2012. Gina was also previously the CEO of Assurex Health - growing the company towards a $410 million acquisition by Myriad Genetics. Gina got her start at P&G, in a 25-year career rising to Group President, Global Beauty Care - leading a $6 billion business with iconic brands like Olay, Old Spice, Secret, and CoverGirl. Gina studied business at the University of Georgia, and received her MBA from The Wharton School, at the University of Pennsylvania. She’s been named an EY Entrepreneur of the Year, one of Fortune’s 50 Most Powerful Women in Business, and many other top awards. 

Gina shares how a focus on the small details - in business and with people - often lead to big results. She also reveals some concrete insights on the how diversity is so much more than an HR strategy - it’s a business strategy.

“Creativity is listening to an idea, even a bad idea, and helping turn it into a good idea.”

Guy Raz is arguably among the most prolific voices in podcasting. He’s the creator and host of popular shows like “How I Built This”, “Wisdom from the Top”, and “The Rewind” — and the co-creator of “The TED Radio Hour” and the kid’s show “Wow in the World.” Guy is the only person to have had three shows ranked in the top 20 podcasts worldwide and a recipient received the Edward R. Morrow Award, the Daniel Schorr Journalism Prize, The National Headline Award, and the NABJ Award - among many others. You’ll enjoy this conversation on creativity and curiosity.

But Guy Raz is not exactly a P&G Alumni, so what’s the deal? Alongside our partners at P&G, we’re thrilled to share another episode of P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast - available exclusively each week to P&G Employees at GetMoreThanSoap.com. On “More Than Soap,” P&G shares weekly conversations with Inspiring guests, unique perspectives, and unconventional ideas. “More Than Soap” is P&G’s official internal podcast - available  to all 100,000 P&G employees worldwide, and hosted by Dorion Positano, P&G’s Director of New Business and Content Innovation. Interested in learning more about P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast, or P&G Studios, can reach out directly to Dorion on LinkedIn. GetMoreThanSoap.com

“Listen for what you’re really good at - and embrace your superpower.”

Amanda Clark is Chief Development Officer at Papa John’s International, where she leads the company’s strategy to continue expanding its restaurant footprint in North America and internationally. Prior to Papa John’s, Amanda was Executive Vice President of the Restaurant Experience at Taco Bell where she reinvented the customer experience across 7,000 restaurants by bringing together marketing, technology, architecture and design, and construction to create a unified vision. During her seven years at Taco Bell, she served on numerous other leadership roles, including SVP North America Development and General Manager for Taco Bell Canada. Amanda began her career at P&G, where she spent nearly 12 years working on some of the company’s biggest brands like Olay, Pampers and Oral-B. Amanda graduated from Yale University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology and Theater Studies. In this candid conversation about being your best self, Amanda talks about the importance of finding what you’re good at - and how that might not always be the path you think you were meant to be on. You’ll enjoy hearing Amanda’s perspective on what it takes to intentionally build a diverse and inclusive team, and how you sometimes in the face of organization inertia - you have to be willing to push back to move forward.

“Work more on things that people haven’t figured out yet."

Charlie Chappell is head of integrated media and communications planning at The Hershey Company, where he is leading the company’s transformation towards a data-driven, people-based approach to media on brands like Reese’s, Hershey’s, Kit Kat, Ice Breakers, Twizzlers and many more. In a great conversation about finding what’s important to each of us at work, Charlie talks about he’s always found his path

Charlie brings a decidedly marketing perspective to media after spending 12 years at Procter & Gamble, working on brands like Pantene, Herbal Essences, Old Spice, Gillette, Secret, Safeway and Camay - across 25 countries including the US, China, Russia, Egypt, and Pakistan - as well as in Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Charlie received his MBA from the Kellogg School at Northwestern, and also studied chemical engineering at Purdue University. He lives just outside of Hershey, Pennsylvania with his wife and four kids.

“We live in a world of massaging perceptions. It's okay to make a mistake, but the second time you have to learn from these things.”

James Michael Lafferty is a returning guest to the podcast — rejoining us for an open and honest conversation about making mistakes, and owning up to them. Jim is the CEO of Fine Hygienic Holding - a leading CPG company across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, Asia, and USA - as well as an accomplished writer, coach, and athlete. Jim is an internationally-tenured leader whose career spans 3 decades and 5 continents. Jim served as CEO of British American Tobacco in the Philippines and Coca-Cola in Nigeria. He led a distinguished 24-year career at P&G, leading the company in both the Philippines and Poland, rising through the ranks in senior roles across Western Europe, Northern Africa, and the Middle East. Beyond being a dedicated husband and father of 5, Jim is also an accomplished coach and athlete - serving as a Coach of the Philippines Olympic Athletics team at the 2016 Rio Games, having run 30+ marathons, and was the 2017 Philippines National Champion in Powerlifting. Jim’s consulted with numerous Fortune 500 companies, and his many talks and lessons have inspired brand managers around the world. He currently lives in the United Arab Emirates. In a world of projections, you’ll appreciate Jim’s vulnerabile, candid conversation.

“We're biologically hardwired to get defensive when we receive feedback - step beyond that defense and step forward with openness and receptivity.”

Rachel Pacheco, PhD is an award-winning author and Management professor at Georgetown University. A former Chief People Officer, Rachel serves on the board of directors and board of advisors for numerous start-ups and high growth organizations. Her first book, Bringing Up the Boss: Practical Lessons for New Managers, focuses on translating academic research and data into immediately useable tools for practitioners. Rachel’s work explores how managers bring meaning, authenticity, and their own self-discovery into the workplace. Prior to her role at Georgetown, Rachel was on the faculty of the Wharton School, and was a founding faculty member of the Entrepreneurship Education Program at the Graduate School of Education at the University of Pennsylvania. She received her BS in Mathematics from Georgetown University and her MBA, MPhil and PhD in Business Administration from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. She lives in Washington, DC with her husband and son.

But Rachel is not exactly a P&G Alumni, so what’s the deal? Alongside our partners at P&G, we’re thrilled to share another episode of P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast - available exclusively each week to P&G Employees at GetMoreThanSoap.com. On “More Than Soap,” P&G shares weekly conversations with Inspiring guests, unique perspectives, and unconventional ideas. “More Than Soap” is P&G’s official internal podcast - available to all 100,000 P&G employees worldwide, and hosted by Dorion Positano, P&G’s Director of New Business and Content Innovation and AI Integration Strategy. Interested in learning more about P&G’s “More Than Soap” podcast, or P&G Studios, can reach out directly to Dorion on LinkedIn. GetMoreThanSoap.com