In this episode of Marketing Over Chai, Ashly Mellor shares her unconventional career journey from a non-traditional education to becoming a data-driven marketing strategist. We talked about the importance of storytelling in marketing, how data has transformed marketing strategies, and the resilience required to navigate challenges in the industry. Ashly emphasizes the need for marketers to focus on their goals, leverage data effectively, and continuously adjust their strategies for success. KEY LEARNINGS Ashley credits her husband for supporting her career journey. Her high school experience shaped her passion for advocacy and education. Motherhood taught her to be an advocate and learn continuously. She discovered her love for branding while working at her old high school. Data became a passion when she worked as a marketing manager for a food scientist. Ashley emphasizes the importance of storytelling in marketing. She believes in the power of data to drive marketing strategies. Marketers should focus on their goals and avoid getting overwhelmed by data. Resilience is key in navigating the ups and downs of marketing campaigns. Continuous testing and adjusting are essential for successful marketing. Authenticity and value are crucial in marketing. Continuous learning is essential for success in marketing. AI is becoming increasingly important in advertising strategies. Work-life balance is challenging but can be achieved with the right approach. Networking can lead to valuable insights and opportunities. Data analysis should focus on understanding human behavior. Smaller businesses face unique challenges in the digital space. Community engagement can be a powerful motivator in personal projects. Finding a rhythm that works for you is key to fulfillment. CHAPTERS 00:00 The Journey Begins: Ashley's Career Path 10:08 The Art of Storytelling in Marketing 20:05 Data-Driven Marketing: A Game Changer 30:02 Navigating Challenges: Resilience in Marketing 34:17 The Evolution of Marketing Tools 37:02 Networking and Continuous Learning 38:49 The Role of AI in Marketing 44:11 Work-Life Balance in Marketing 48:37 Passions Beyond Marketing Connect with Us: 🌐 Website: https://marketingoverchai.com/ 🎧 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/markeitngoverchai 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marketingoverchai 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-fernandes/ 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marketingoverchai Connect with Ashly: 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashlymellor/ 🌐 Company website: https://www.staffingindallas.com 🎃Tyler Halloween House: https://tylerhalloweenhouse.com Subscribe to Marketing Over Chai on YouTube and never miss an episode: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingOverChaiPodcast For Collaborations or Sponsorships, Contact Us: 📧 marketingoverchai@gmail.com Keywords: marketing, storytelling, data-driven, career journey, resilience, branding, political campaigns, online education, advocacy, community engagement, marketing challenges, authenticity, data analysis, AI in marketing, work-life balance, networking, continuous learning, marketing tools, storytelling, community engagement #marketingoverchai #marketingtips #marketingpodcast #podcast #careerjourney #worklifebalance #marketing #data #storytelling #dataandsroeytelling #storytelling #Datainmarketing ________________ Disclaimer: This video is for entertainment purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Marketing Over Chai or any other agency, organization, employer, or company. The content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed in this podcast. ________________

In this episode of Marketing Over Chai, Kate interviews Mary Luz Mejia, Canada's first Level 3 IICCT certified chocolate taster and educator. Mary Luz shares her unique career journey from journalism to content marketing, emphasizing the importance of storytelling in marketing. She discusses her passion for chocolate, her certification journey, and the complexities of the chocolate marketing landscape, including the challenges of greenwashing and the significance of supporting local, quality chocolate producers. We also talk about seasonal trends in chocolate consumption, the differences between artisan and mass-market chocolate, and the importance of ethical sourcing. She emphasizes the need for small chocolate brands to tell their unique stories and engage consumers through tastings. The discussion also touches on work-life balance in the industry and offers advice for aspiring marketers looking to enter niche markets. Key Takeaways: Mary Luz transitioned from journalism to marketing, leveraging her storytelling skills. The chocolate industry is complex, with many brands engaging in greenwashing. Storytelling is crucial in content marketing, making it more relatable and engaging. Her certification as a chocolate taster deepened her understanding of cacao and chocolate. Supporting local chocolate makers can lead to better quality products. The importance of knowing where your chocolate comes from and its production process. Consumers should be aware of the difference between craft chocolate and mass-produced options. Chocolate tasting is an art that involves understanding flavor profiles and origins. The chocolate marketing landscape is diverse, with luxury and everyday options available. Learning is a lifelong journey, and it's never too late to pursue new passions. Chocolate consumption peaks during colder months. Artisan chocolate brands differentiate through storytelling. Tasting is essential for consumers to appreciate quality chocolate. Support local chocolate makers for better quality and ethics. Big brands often mislead consumers with marketing tactics. Healthy work-life balance is crucial in the chocolate industry. Setting boundaries in corporate environments is important. Networking and finding your niche community can lead to success. Transparency in sourcing can build consumer trust. The chocolate industry is evolving with a focus on ethical practices. Chapters 00:00 Mary Luz' career journey 06:52 Transitioning from Journalism to Marketing 12:46 The Power of Storytelling in Marketing 18:42 Becoming a Certified Chocolate Taster 25:32 Navigating the Chocolate Marketing Landscape 30:40 Craft Chocolate: Quality Over Quantity 36:13 Artisan vs. Mass Market Chocolate 41:05 Consumer Preferences and Ethical Trends 48:32 Marketing Strategies for Small Chocolate Brands 52:07 Work-Life Balance in the Chocolate Industry 59:43 Advice for Aspiring Marketers in Niche Markets Connect with Us: 🌐 Website: https://marketingoverchai.com/ 🎧 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/markeitngoverchai 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marketingoverchai 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-fernandes/ 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marketingoverchai Connect with Mary Luz: 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-luz-mejia/ 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mlmejia123/ Read her article in the Globe and Mail: Subscribe to Marketing Over Chai on YouTube and never miss an episode: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingOverChaiPodcast For Collaborations or Sponsorships, Contact Us: 📧 marketingoverchai@gmail.com Keywords: Mary Luz Mejia, chocolate marketing, content marketing, storytelling, chocolate tasting, career transition, food industry, marketing trends, bean to bar, craft chocolate, consumer awareness, chocolate, artisan chocolate, seasonal trends, marketing strategies, work-life balance, consumer preferences, ethical chocolate, small businesses, chocolate tasting, chocolate industry ________________ Disclaimer: This video is for entertainment purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Marketing Over Chai or any other agency, organization, employer, or company. The content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed in this podcast. ________________

In this episode of Marketing Over Chai, Kate interviews Ketaki Chande, who shares her journey from marketing to product management. Ketaki discusses the importance of customer feedback in product development, the challenges of cross-functional collaboration, and the emerging trends in product management, particularly the impact of AI. She emphasizes the need for continuous learning and communication in the evolving landscape of product management. In this conversation, Kate and Ketaki explore the intersection of technology and personal experiences in product management. They discuss the evolution of design tools, the importance of leveraging AI for productivity, and the necessity of maintaining a work-life balance. Ketaki shares her passion for problem-solving in product management and reflects on her favorite projects. They also talk about endometriosis, emphasizing the need for support and understanding for those affected by this condition. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:45 Career journey 06:44 ICE BREAKER 09:33 Ketaki discusses the State of the industry Key Takeaways: Ketaki transitioned from marketing to product management due to an incidental opportunity. Customer feedback is crucial for shaping product roadmaps and features. Cross-functional collaboration is essential but can be challenging due to differing priorities. AI is revolutionizing product management by automating tasks and providing insights. Continuous learning through online courses and networking is vital for career growth. Sales teams provide valuable insights that can enhance product research. Understanding user personas and market research is key for product managers. Effective communication helps align cross-functional teams towards common goals. Building a portfolio can help those transitioning into product management. Emerging technologies are enhancing product capabilities and user experiences. AI tools can enhance productivity and creativity. It's essential to maintain control over AI technologies. Work-life balance requires setting clear boundaries. Problem-solving is a key motivator in product management. Endometriosis awareness is crucial for women's health. Personal experiences shape our professional journeys. Continuous learning is necessary in a changing work environment. AI will change job roles but not eliminate them. Creating supportive communities is vital for health issues. Awareness can empower the next generation. Connect with Us: 🌐 Website: https://marketingoverchai.com/ 🎧 Spotify: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/markeitngoverchai 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marketingoverchai 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-fernandes/ 🎥 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marketingoverchai Connect with Ketaki: 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ketaki-chande/ Subscribe to Marketing Over Chai on YouTube and never miss an episode: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingOverChaiPodcast For Collaborations or Sponsorships, Contact Us: 📧 marketingoverchai@gmail.com Keywords: marketing, product management, customer feedback, cross-functional collaboration, Ketaki Chande, AI trends, career transition, product development, market research, product strategy, industry challenges, AI, product management, work-life balance, endometriosis, design tools, productivity, technology, personal growth, awareness, problem solving, small business marketing, digital marketing strategies, AI in marketing, diversity in marketing, future marketing trends, work-life balance for marketers ________________ Disclaimer: This video is for entertainment purposes only. The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Marketing Over Chai or any other agency, organization, employer, or company. The content provided is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice. Always consult with a qualified professional before making any decisions based on the content discussed in this podcast. ________________ #MarketingOverChai #KetakiChande #ProductManagement #MarketingToProduct #CustomerFeedback #ProductDevelopment #CrossFunctionalCollaboration #AIInProductManagement #ContinuousLearning #CommunicationSkills #TechnologyAndPersonalExperience #DesignTools #ProductivityWithAI #WorkLifeBalance #ProblemSolving #EndometriosisAwareness #CareerGrowth #OnlineCourses #Networking #UserPersonas #MarketResearch #EffectiveCommunication #BuildingPortfolio #EmergingTechnologies #AIForProductManagement #UserExperience #InnovativeProductManagement #WorkBoundaries #HealthAwareness #WomenInHealth #WomenInLeadership #SupportiveCommunities #AIImpactOnJobs #PersonalJourney #ProfessionalDevelopment #ProductManagementTrends #AIAndProductivity #EmpoweringCommunities #NextGenerationAwareness #HealthSupport