In this episode, Rum continues his conversation with Mark Durney, Executive Vice President of Digital and Innovation at Porter Novelli, they discuss the fragmentation of today’s media ecosystem and how AI-driven insights can help brands cut through the noise. Mark explains why “audience-first, data-led” has become more than just an industry buzzphrase—it's a necessity for pinpointing relevant communities, shaping content, and delivering truly personalized monitoring. They also discuss balancing automation (to handle tasks like account summaries or first-draft content) with the human touch that guards against misinformation and “AI hallucinations.” Finally, Mark highlights the value of strategic networking—framed as “friendship first”—for building authentic agency relationships and fostering long-term career growth in a world where constant innovation and collaboration remain the keys to success.

Website: ⁠www.rumandco.co⁠

Show Page: ⁠podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rumcopodcast⁠

YouTube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@RumAndCoPodcast⁠

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In this episode, Rum welcomes Mark Durney, Executive Vice President of Digital and Innovation at Porter Novelli, who shares how his early grassroots experience—running a nonprofit with zero budget—helped shape his approach to agency life and corporate consulting. Mark recounts his transition from client-side roles at a major French tech firm to leading an in-house digital team that grew exponentially under his mentorship. Along the way, he highlights why data is the bedrock of modern pitches, how AI tools like ChatGPT can supercharge planning, and why it’s essential to train junior staff in the basics of storytelling—rather than just sending them “slide shopping.” From navigating political nuances on the client side to embracing a “yes-and” mentality in rapid-fire pitch sessions, Mark offers insights on building a culture that blends innovation, empathy, and a relentless focus on results.

Website: www.rumandco.co

Show Page: podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rumcopodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RumAndCoPodcast

Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/rumandco

Instagram: instagram.com/rumandco.co

From building decks in “war room” style to pushing each other beyond comfort zones, Molly Dobbins, SVP at Burson, and Jen Langione, Director of Global Communications at Mastercard, reveal how intense on-the-job learning fostered confidence, accountability, and camaraderie. They also discuss the role of AI in day-to-day tasks—explaining how tools like ChatGPT can amplify insights without replacing the human touch—and why it’s essential to balance a proactive “we can do that” attitude with genuine client counsel. They talk through harnessing technology, navigating remote collaboration, and delivering standout results without sacrificing team morale.

Website: www.rumandco.co

Show Page: podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rumcopodcast

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RumAndCoPodcast

Linkedin: linkedin.com/company/rumandco

Instagram: instagram.com/rumandco.co