Podcast
Spikes Excitement Talks.
Check out the recent episodes below!
Episode #29 with Suzanne Powers
Start a selfish company about the things you love.
#29 with Suzanne Powers
In this episode of Spikes Excitement Talks, Gordon sits down with Suzanne Powers, Founder and CEO of PowersCreativity and former Global Chief Strategy Officer and President at McCann Worldgroup. With a career that has shaped some of the most iconic agencies—including TBWA, Crispin Porter + Bogusky, and McCann—Suzanne shares her journey through the world of brand strategy, creative transformation, and what it truly takes to power creativity.
They explore the impact of disruption as a strategic tool, the importance of embedding creativity at every level of an organization, and how brands can create culturally resonant work. Suzanne also reflects on the evolving creative landscape, why the best strategies are never built in isolation, and how bold thinking can drive meaningful change.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the future of creativity, leadership, and why starting a “selfish company” might just be the best career move.
About
Spikes Excitement Talk
Spikes Excitement Talks is an engaging podcast hosted by Gordon Euchler, co-founder of Spikes, featuring some of the most famous figures from the world of marketing and branding. Each episode welcomes guests who share their professional journeys and delve into what personally and professionally excites them. From notable studio heads to leading minds in top advertising agencies, listeners gain an intimate look at the passions driving these industry leaders.
Your Host
Gordon Euchler, Co-Founder of Spikes
All Episodes
Start a selfish company about the things you love.
#29 with Suzanne Powers
In this episode of Spikes Excitement Talks, Gordon sits down with Suzanne Powers, Founder and CEO of PowersCreativity and former Global Chief Strategy Officer and President at McCann Worldgroup. With a career that has shaped some of the most iconic agencies—including TBWA, Crispin Porter + Bogusky, and McCann—Suzanne shares her journey through the world of brand strategy, creative transformation, and what it truly takes to power creativity.
They explore the impact of disruption as a strategic tool, the importance of embedding creativity at every level of an organization, and how brands can create culturally resonant work. Suzanne also reflects on the evolving creative landscape, why the best strategies are never built in isolation, and how bold thinking can drive meaningful change.
Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the future of creativity, leadership, and why starting a “selfish company” might just be the best career move.
Career starts at the breakfast table.
#28 with Tim Alexander
In dieser deutschen Special-Folge des Spikes Excitement Talks, spricht Host Gordon mit Tim Alexander. Tim ist CMO bei der Deutschen Bank und hat eine gemeinsame Vergangenheit mit Gordon bei der Agentur Grey. Die beiden sprechen über Tims Karriereweg zu seiner aktuellen Position und den aktuellen Brand-Turnaround bei der Deutschen Bank.
At AIDA we are giving people the most important time of their year.
#27 with Alexander Ewig
In this episode of Spikes Excitement Talks, Gordon sits down with Alexander Ewig, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Sales at AIDA Cruises. With a career spanning from founding a digital agency in the early days of the internet to leading marketing and sales at major brands like MediaMarkt-Saturn, Alexander shares his unique journey into the industry and how it shaped his innovative approach to brand leadership.
They discuss the synergy between marketing and sales, the complexities of the cruise industry, and the joy of working in a business that sells happiness—helping people enjoy the best time of the year. Alexander also delves into the exciting potential of AI, from revolutionizing customer service to transforming creative production, while reflecting on the enduring importance of human connection in shaping memorable experiences.
Tune in to hear Alexander’s insights into navigating the challenges of modern marketing, the brands he admires, and what excites him most about the future of the industry.
Kids grow fast. Wreck shoes. About the idea behind Nike Adventure Club.
#26 with Dave Cobban
In this episode of Spikes Excitement Talks, Gordon sits down with Dave Cobban, former General Manager of the Nike Adventure Club and now a partner at Spikes in the U.S. Dave reflects on his remarkable journey from working as an auditor at KPMG to a leadership role at Nike, where he spearheaded groundbreaking initiatives in sustainability, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
They dive into Dave’s transition from marketing to building innovative subscription services, his passion for blending logic and creativity, and how he helped create a culture of innovation at Nike. Along the way, Dave shares fascinating insights into consumer behavior, the future of loyalty-driven businesses, and the power of small acts of generosity in building meaningful relationships.
Tune in to hear Dave’s thoughts on the evolving relationship between technology and humanity, why asking the right questions matters, and what excites him most about the future of marketing and innovation.
When your client finds $2 M in the budget you fix the music!
#25 with Jae Goodman
In this episode of Spikes Excitement Talks, Gordon sits down with Jae Goodman, CEO and Founder of Super Connector Studio and former Chief Creative Officer of CAA Marketing. With a career spanning iconic agencies like Wieden+Kennedy and creative ventures at CAA, Jae shares his insights into the evolution of advertising, branded entertainment, and the art of creating content that attracts rather than interrupts audiences.
From his groundbreaking work on campaigns for Chipotle and Nike to spearheading initiatives like the Effies-Can Lions merger, Jae reflects on the people and principles that have shaped his approach to marketing and creativity. They discuss the challenges of blending creativity with measurable effectiveness, the importance of fostering diversity in the industry, and Jae's vision for the future of brand entertainment.
Tune in for a masterclass on innovation, collaboration, and the enduring power of storytelling in marketing.
From Montreal to Görlitz to Rolls-Royce.
#24 with Gunnar Droescher
In this episode of Spikes Excitement Talks, Gordon sits down with Gunnar Droescher, Vice President of Bombardier Programs at Rolls-Royce. Gunnar shares his fascinating journey from consulting at P3 to leading key aerospace projects, offering unique insights into one of the world’s most safety-obsessed and innovation-driven industries.
They dive into the complexities of managing technical programs, the collaboration required for creating jet engines with over 10,000 components, and how safety transcends competition in the aviation sector. Gunnar also reflects on the challenges of decarbonizing aviation, the role of sustainable aviation fuel, and how Rolls-Royce is shaping the future of the industry.
Tune in to discover what excites Gunnar about the future of aerospace and how his experiences in international teams have shaped his leadership philosophy.
Some of the best ideas remain tucked away in a drawer for years.
#23 with Michael Schuld
In this special German episode of Spikes Excitement Talk, host Gordon talks to Michael Schuld. Michael is CMO at MediaMarktSaturn Retail Group and has a shared history with Gordon at Telekom. The two talk about Michael's career path to his current position and what excites him in his life.
In dieser deutschen Special-Folge des Spikes Excitement Talks, spricht Host Gordon mit Michael Schuld. Michael ist CMO bei MediaMarktSaturn Retail Group und hat eine gemeinsame Vergangenheit mit Gordon bei der Telekom. Die beiden sprechen über Michaels Karriereweg zu seiner aktuellen Position und was Ihn in seinem Leben begeistert.
The value of a golden nugget is not determined by its size.
#22 with Nina Mack
In this episode of Spikes Excitement Talks, Gordon sits down with Nina Mack, Head of B2C Brand Communications at Magenta Telekom in Austria, for an engaging conversation on the art and science of brand communication. Nina shares her journey from working at Red Bull and top agencies to leading teams in the telecom industry, revealing how her background in media studies and a passion for big brands have shaped her career. They discuss the challenges of controlling brand narratives, the evolving role of collaboration in marketing, and the balance between creativity and simplicity. Tune in to hear Nina’s thoughts on the future of marketing, the power of curiosity, and why she believes in finding the “golden nuggets” in every campaign.
It’s less about being interesting but more about being interested.
#21 with Ethan Decker
In this episode of Spikes Excitement Talks, Gordon sits down with Ethan Decker, President of Applied Brand Science, for a lively discussion on the intersection of science and marketing. Ethan shares insights from his journey through renowned agencies like Crispin Porter and 72andSunny, and how his background in urban ecology informs his approach to brand strategy. They dive into the power of curiosity, the importance of understanding marketing laws versus levers, and the role of science in guiding creative decisions. Tune in to hear Ethan’s thoughts on industry trends and his unique perspective on what excites him about the future of marketing.
Why writing your thesis about David Beckham can make your career.
#20 with Armin Heary
In this episode of Spikes Excitement Talks, Gordon dives into a fascinating conversation with Armin Haery, Global Brand Director at Kao for John Frieda. Armin shares his journey from a budding interest in advertising to a 19-year career at Kao, revealing the company’s unique culture of respect and harmony. They discuss the art of building brands, the challenges of standing out in competitive markets, and the transformative power of bold, creative marketing. Tune in to discover how Armin is on a mission to shake up the hair care industry and bring excitement back to this deeply emotional category.
Where do you want to be in one hour?
#19 with Iskra Velichkova
In Excitement Talks #19, Gordon chats with Iskra Velichkova, Head of Brand at Kleinanzeigen. They explore Iskra's journey from journalism in Bulgaria to her current role, where she led the exciting rebranding of Kleinanzeigen after its separation from eBay. Iskra shares her insights on the evolution of marketing, the unique culture at Kleinanzeigen, and how marketing can drive societal change, using examples like the shift towards sustainability at Burger King. Join them for an engaging conversation on creativity, brand transformation, and the future of marketing.
The power of an ad can make you change your career.
#18 with Steve Walls
In Excitement Talks #18, the host interviews Steve Walls CSO at Moon Rabbit, focusing on his insights into creativity and excitement in the industry. They discuss Steve's connection to the “planning university” and how he became a bit of a LinkedIn star. The conversation delves into the evolving role of technology, such as AI in photography, and how it shapes the industry. Steve shares his enthusiasm for the future, highlighting the passion and responsibility of younger generations entering the creative fields. He emphasizes the importance of respecting audiences and avoiding superficial trends, advocating for a deeper, more meaningful connection in media and marketing. The episode wraps up with Steve's excitement about the industry's future, driven by fresh perspectives and a sense of responsibility.
How the game changes when you are your own boss.
#17 with Lucas Großebner
In this episode, Gordon welcomes Lucas, a long-time friend and successful agency founder. They discuss their shared experiences at DDB, the pressures of the advertising industry, and Lucas' admiration for Volvo's "Epic Split" ad. Lucas also shares his personal passion for German literature, praising Surkamp Verlag for its continued excellence. This episode blends professional insights with personal reflections, offering a unique look into creativity and growth in both business and life.
Creative? Try starting a chocolate brand to fight child labour.
#16 with Laurence Green
In this episode of Excitement Talks, host Gordon is joined by Laurence Green, a legendary figure in advertising. Lawrence, co-founder and chairman of Fallon London, reflects on iconic campaigns like Sony Bravia's "Balls," which inspired Gordon's career. They discuss the power of creativity in advertising, the importance of making lasting impressions, and the evolving challenges in the industry. Laurence shares insights from his current role as Director of Effectiveness at the IPA, while they both celebrate the enduring impact of great campaigns. The conversation is a blend of nostalgia and optimism about the future of advertising.
Never try to outcreate the creatives.
#15 with Alina Kessel
In this episode of Spikes Excitement Talks, host Gordon welcomes Alina Kessel Global Client Leader at WPP, a seasoned marketing professional and one of his early career mentors. The conversation delves into Alina's journey into the marketing industry, her passion for creativity, and her involvement with various charitable organizations. Alina shares valuable insights on the interconnectedness of her roles, the importance of creativity in business, and offers advice for those considering a career in marketing. This engaging discussion highlights the excitement and fulfillment that comes with a dynamic career in marketing.
How to turn an advertorial brief into two Cannes grand prix’s.
#14 with Gillian Rightford
In this episode of Spikes Excitement Talk, we chat with Gillian Rightford, Managing Director of Adtherapy Consulting and Founder of School of Thought. Gillian shares her journey from dismissing the marketing industry in university to becoming a leader in strategic marketing. She discusses her early disillusionment with corporate strategy and her shift to a hands-on, results-driven approach. The conversation offers insights into the challenges and rewards of implementing strategies and the importance of creativity in business. Tune in for an inspiring and engaging discussion on career growth and leadership.
About how AI is like a firework and the return of the napkin.
#13 with Joe Prota
In this episode of the Excitement Talk Series, we are thrilled to welcome Joe Prota, a global brand leader at IBM, to discuss the real-world applications of AI at one of the world's most influential companies. Joe brings invaluable insights into how AI is transforming industries, sharing his experiences of working at the forefront of AI technology. We dive into the rapidly evolving landscape of AI, highlighting the challenges and opportunities that come with it. Joe also reflects on the innovative ways AI is being integrated into our daily lives, using the Olympics as a prime example of how technology is revolutionizing the way we consume content. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or just curious about the future of AI, this episode is packed with inspiring ideas and practical knowledge. Join us for a fascinating conversation with someone who isn’t just talking about AI but actively shaping its future.
How to get back to being 5 year old – learn by asking questions.
#12 with Nikki Crumpton
In this engaging episode of our podcast, we're joined by Nikki Crumpton, the Chief Strategy Officer of BeenThereDoneThat. With a wealth of experience in the advertising industry, Nikki shares her journey, insights, and reflections on leadership, problem-solving, and the evolving demands of the business world. One important example she highlights is the need for leaders to become comfortable with ambiguity and not having all the answers. Nikki emphasizes how defining problems clearly, even when solutions are not immediately evident, can galvanize teams to innovate and find the right answers. As she discusses her passion for capability training and the importance of addressing the right problems, Nikki offers valuable advice for both seasoned professionals and those just starting out. Join us as we explore the challenges and opportunities in today's dynamic landscape with one of the industry's most thoughtful leaders.
Why you should quit your job after 18 month.
#11 with Johnny Vulkan
Join us for a new episode of "Excitement Talk" featuring Johnny Vulkan, founder of Anomaly! In this ninth episode, we delve into the world of groundbreaking advertising strategies and the creative processes behind Anomaly's success. Johnny Vulkan shares his journey, the challenges of fostering innovation in a dynamic industry, and the impact of digital transformation on traditional advertising models. This episode is packed with valuable insights, industry anecdotes, and a fresh perspective on the future of advertising. Tune in to learn from one of the industry's most innovative minds and gain inspiration for your own creative ventures. Don’t miss it!
The time it takes to find excitement.
#10 with James Miller
Join us for an engaging episode with James Miller EVP, Head of Strategy (Mars) and Head of Strategy (BBDO Europe)! We discuss the evolving landscape of advertising, the challenges of capturing attention in the digital age, and the impact of short attention spans. James shares insights on standout digital content, brand salience, and the misconception that tech giants don't invest in traditional advertising. Tune in for industry insights, personal anecdotes, and a fresh perspective on the future of advertising. Don't miss it!
Why advertising is reverse archeology?
#9 with Dirk Herbert
This is our ninth excitement talk with Dirk Herbert. Dirk ist CSO of Dentsu for the Americas. Over the decades he worked at many big agency and started out his career working on global marketing strategy at Apple.