In this episode of 'It's a Customer's World,' Andy Murray is joined by co-host Professor Molly Rapert to interview Rishad Tobaccowala, a globally recognized strategist and author. The conversation spans various topics including leadership mindset shifts, the evolving landscape of work, and the role of technology in shaping the future.

Rishad offers deep insights into how businesses can thrive by focusing on employee satisfaction and continuous learning. Practical advice is given on how to build a successful career, emphasizing the value of mentorship, collaboration, and lifelong learning. The discussion also delves into the role of AI and the need for in-person interactions in the hybrid work environment.

Rishad shares actionable recommendations for students and professionals, stressing the significance of curiosity, creativity, and generosity.

00:00 Introduction and Special Co-Host Announcement

00:49 Introducing Rishad Tobaccowala

02:16 Defining Customer-Centric Organizations

04:01 Shifting Leader Mindsets

05:23 The Age of De-Boss-ification

08:34 The Importance of Lifelong Learning

18:06 The Role of Passion and Side Hustles

25:52 The Importance of In-Person Interaction

27:17 Mentorship and Learning in a Modern World

31:09 Career Advice for Young Professionals

34:00 Building a Strong Professional Reputation

36:07 Defining Personal Purpose in Education

39:16 Future-Proofing and Leadership

45:31 The Power of Generosity and Continuous Learning

46:50 Concluding Thoughts and Final Advice

Show Notes

In this insightful episode of 'It's a Customer's World' podcast, host Andy Murray explores the evolving intersection of mobile gaming and retail media with Nassir Wajihuddin, CEO of Engago.

They delve into Wajihuddin's journey from marketing iconic brands like Skittles and Oreo to innovating in the mobile game space, and discuss how mobile games can significantly enhance customer engagement and offer new advertising avenues for retailers.

Key discussions include the impact of Wordle on the New York Times' business model, the vast potential of casual mobile games for user engagement, and the strategic integration of games into retail media to bolster customer loyalty programs and drive significant ad revenue. This episode sheds light on the untapped synergies between mobile gaming and retail, offering valuable insights for marketers and retailers alike.

Questions and Topics:

03:23 Nasir Wajihuddin's Background and Entry into Gaming

06:36 Defining the Mobile Game Market

08:18 The Business Model and Impact of Wordle

17:28 Enhancing Retail Media with Mobile Games

23:01 Challenges and Advantages in Retailer Adoption

30:06 Entrepreneurial Advice and Closing Thoughts

Show Notes

In this episode of 'It's a Customer's World' podcast, host Andy Murray talks with Steve Dennis, a seasoned leader and author, about the challenges and necessities of transforming organizations to become truly customer-centric. With insights from Dennis' new book 'Leaders Leap,' they discuss the critical leadership mindset needed for such transformations. The conversation delves into Dennis' personal reflections on past experiences, notably his time at Sears, and how moments of crisis can lead to significant professional growth and the imperative for courage in leadership.

Dennis emphasizes the importance of being customer-focused, not just in marketing but across all aspects of an organization, and how fear and ego can impede innovation. They touch on various aspects of leadership and the necessity of adopting new mindsets to succeed in today's rapidly changing retail landscape.

The episode is rich with advice on personal and organizational transformation, highlighting the journey towards more dynamic, customer-centered leadership.

Questions and Topics:

00:00 Welcome to It's a Customer's World Podcast

01:05 Deep Dive with Steve Dennis: Leadership and Transformation

02:27 The Sears Strategy Story: A Leadership Reflection

07:20 Pivoting Perspectives: The Power of Leadership Mindset

11:10 The Courage to Innovate: Overcoming Fear and Embracing Change

26:31 Leadership Leaps: The Seven Mindset Shifts for Transformation

31:19 Personal Journey: Embracing Vulnerability and Courage in Leadership

40:35 Closing Thoughts and the Path Forward

Additional Links

Leaders Leap by Steve Dennis