This week, Mike welcomes Doug Zarkin, a branding expert with an impressive portfolio that includes Avon and Victoria's Secret Pink. Doug discusses his career journey from post-grad hustling to becoming a chief brand officer, emphasizing key lessons learned along the way. He reveals the principles of emotional connection in branding and marketing, highlighting the importance of listening to consumers and building campaigns that resonate deeply. Doug also delves into the contrasting approaches of branding and marketing and shares actionable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and marketers on how to succeed in the competitive landscape. He passionately shares why there is no right or wrong way in marketing, just a direction to commit to fully.
Doug also introduces his book, 'Moving Your Brand Out of the Friend Zone,' and explores some fascinating case studies, such as transforming Avon's brand appeal to a younger audience and scaling Victoria’s Secret Pink into a fashion powerhouse. With insights on the role of technology and AI in future branding strategies and the essentials of creating impactful ad campaigns, this episode is packed with invaluable knowledge for anyone interested in marketing and brand management. Tune in for Doug's candid insights about the challenges and triumphs of his career, and get inspired to THINK HUMAN in every business and marketing decision.
Resources Mentioned in This Episode:
Moving Your Brand Out of the Friend Zone
Connect with Doug:
Connect with Mike:
SPONSORS:
Social Chameleon | Transform Your Podcast
Libsyn: First Month FREE with Promo Code BEGREAT
Riverside | This interview was recorded on Riverside
Want to become a show sponsor? Email mike@socialchameleon.us
Copyright © 2025 Mike’D Up! with Mike DiCioccio | For permission to use this content in any way, please email mike@socialchameleon.us
Popular Podcasts
Las Culturistas with Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang
Ding dong! Join your culture consultants, Matt Rogers and Bowen Yang, on an unforgettable journey into the beating heart of CULTURE. Alongside sizzling special guests, they GET INTO the hottest pop-culture moments of the day and the formative cultural experiences that turned them into Culturistas. Produced by the Big Money Players Network and iHeartRadio.
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Dateline NBC
Current and classic episodes, featuring compelling true-crime mysteries, powerful documentaries and in-depth investigations. Follow now to get the latest episodes of Dateline NBC completely free, or subscribe to Dateline Premium for ad-free listening and exclusive bonus content: DatelinePremium.com