On this episode of In The Business Of, we tune into the world of sonic branding with Jennifer Manning, Associate Creative Director of Copy, and Jesse Yuen, Managing Director of Culture to Brand at ATB. Together, they share how the financial institution went beyond the traditional jingle to build a full sonic identity that’s as flexible as it is memorable.

From testing sound to see what emotions it sparks, to partnering with Canadian dream-pop artist Munya, Jennifer and Jesse walk us through the creative journey of finding ATB’s brand voice through music. They discuss why sonic cues are eight times more effective than visual logos, how consistency in sound helps stretch marketing dollars further, and why banks—yes, banks—have more to say (and sound like) than you might think.

Whether you’re a marketer, a creative, or just someone fascinated by the way sound shapes emotion, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at how ATB turned music into a powerful branding tool.

What do you do when your only proof of work is a haiku—and it actually lands you a job? Jon Manning reflects on his path from actor to award-winning copywriter, the highs and lows of freelance life, and his return to agency work with Brandish. We talk about staying curious, surrendering control (acquiescing—look it up), and what it means to “flex” in this industry. Whether you’re a writer, creative, or just figuring it out as you go, this episode’s got something for you.

What does it take to build a brand that stands for something—and stands the test of time? Kendall Barber, co-founder of Poppy Barley, joins the podcast to share her journey from a marketing career to launching and scaling one of Canada’s most beloved footwear brands.

We dive into Poppy Barley's early days, from the spark of an idea on a trip to Bali to a bold six-month ultimatum that set the business in motion. Kendall opens up about the highs (hitting that first million!) and the hard choices (pivoting from custom footwear to in-stock inventory). Plus, she shares her thoughts on Poppy Barley’s brand longevity, the power of values-driven growth, and the unique challenges—and rewards—of running a company with her sister.

If you're an entrepreneur, a marketer, or just someone who loves a well-crafted brand (or shoe), this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Tune in now!