Brand Slam Podcast

EP 30: Leading across 5 generations

In Episode 30 of the Brand Slam Podcast, co-host Joe Kayata welcomes back World Series Champion and pioneering baseball development coach Kayla Baptista, joined by her mentor, legendary baseball leader Jerry Weinstein. This inspiring episode explores how mentorship transcends five generations, genders and industries, fostering growth and collaboration.
Jerry Weinstein, with a nearly 60-year career in baseball, shares how mentorship is rooted in adaptability, respect and a shared love for the game. Reflecting on his time mentoring Kayla, Jerry emphasizes the importance of treating everyone equally, valuing diverse perspectives and staying committed to learning. Kayla, in turn, credits Jerry’s guidance for helping her navigate the challenges of being a trailblazing female coach in a traditionally male-dominated field.
Together, they discuss the evolution of baseball, from the integration of analytics to blending old-school wisdom with modern techniques. Jerry’s philosophy, “Information is king,” emphasizes the power of data in empowering players while preserving the human connection essential to effective mentorship. 
This episode reveals that mentorship is more than guidance—it’s a shared journey of growth, passion and purpose. Whether on the baseball field or in the boardroom, shared goals and a commitment to excellence can create a lasting impact. For more insights, check out Kayla’s earlier episode, "The World Series of Branding." 
Interested in a particular topic or want to be a guest? Contact us at brandslam@addventures.com.

EP 29: Brand Slam: Best of 2024

In this special episode 29 of the Brand Slam podcast, co-hosts Steve Rosa and Joe Kayata reflect on a remarkable year of achievements. From insightful conversations with trailblazing guests to setting major milestones, Brand Slam has solidified its place as a leading voice in the world of marketing podcasts.
Over the past year, Brand Slam has earned global recognition, now ranking in the top 3% of all podcasts worldwide according to Listen Notes. With over 600,000 social media impressions, the podcast has cultivated an engaged and enthusiastic audience. Notably, Brand Slam once claimed the #1 spot in marketing podcasts on Apple Podcasts in Argentina and broke into the top 100 in the U.S. Marketing category.
The podcast’s success lies in the authentic storytelling and exceptional network of guests who share their journeys in business, marketing and sports. From its standout debut featuring Devin McCourty to marquee episodes with guests like Kali Reis, James White and Helena Foulkes, Brand Slam delivers fresh perspectives on leadership, success and strategy. 
One unforgettable highlight was Dan Hurley’s episode—just two weeks after leading UCONN to its second consecutive NCAA championship. Kathryn Tappen joined post-Olympics to explore the intersection of sports, branding and storytelling. And Tory Pachis from Amica Mutual Insurance demonstrated how bold moves can modernize and grow even the most established brands.
What sets Brand Slam apart is its commitment to authentic engagement and actionable insights. Rooted in Steve Rosa’s vision of resilience and purpose, the podcast is about more than stories —it’s about creating real connections that inspire and resonate. Each guest brings unique insights, offering thoughtful and authentic narratives that enrich the audience's understanding and resonate with listeners at every level.
Episode 29 celebrates a year of wins and offers a preview of what’s ahead. As we look to the future, Brand Slam remains committed to exploring new territories, sharing game-changing insights, and delivering timely, impactful discussions that uplift and educate. At its core, Brand Slam is about sharing stories that spark creativity, imparting insights to solve problems and inspiring our audience. As Rosa often says, “Doing well begins by doing good.” Here’s to the next chapter of connecting and celebrating victories.
Interested in a particular topic or want to be a guest? Contact us at brandslam@addventures.com. 

EP 28: Tory Pachis: Inside Amica’s brand strategy

In Episode 28 of the Brand Slam podcast, co-hosts Steve Rosa and Joe Kayata sit down with Tory Pachis, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Amica Mutual Insurance, for an inspiring conversation about branding, community, and connection. Tory shares how Amica's innovative marketing strategies set the company apart in the competitive world of insurance, with a particular focus on their dynamic partnership with the Boston Celtics as the team’s jersey patch sponsor and their naming rights to the Amica Mutual Pavilion, a cornerstone of Providence, RI.
This episode dives into how Amica has embraced sports marketing to elevate its brand, harnessing the universal appeal of sports to connect with audiences in meaningful ways. By blending local engagement with authentic storytelling, Amica creates a brand identity that feels deeply personal and rooted in shared experiences.
Tory and Steve discuss Amica’s emphasis on empathy and human connection—values that resonate not just in their advertising but throughout the entire organization. As a mutual company, Amica prioritizes customer relationships and long-term loyalty, weaving a genuine sense of care into everything they do. Whether through community initiatives or thoughtful partnerships, the company demonstrates how a focus on core values can build trust and foster lasting brand commitment.
Listeners will gain valuable insights into the powerful intersection of sports marketing and corporate identity. Tory’s personal anecdotes of community involvement add dimension to the conversation, showcasing how Amica’s regional focus on New England strengthens its ties to local communities while reinforcing its position as a customer-first, community-driven insurer.
In keeping with (add)ventures’ commitment to giving back, this episode includes a donation from our (add)love charitable-giving program to Foster Forward, a nonprofit dedicated to empowering lives touched by foster care–a cause deeply important to Tory who serves on its board. 
Interested in a particular topic or want to be a guest? Contact us at brandslam@addventures.com.

EP 27: Chris Nowinski: Tackling CTE

In Episode 27 of the Brand Slam Podcast, hosts Steve Rosa and Joe Kayata engage in a compelling conversation with Dr. Chris Nowinski, co-founder of the Concussion Legacy Foundation, about the critical issue of brain injuries in sports. This episode provides insightful exploration into the world of athletic safety, focusing on the impact of concussions and Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE).
Dr. Nowinski shares his journey from being a former Harvard football player and WWE wrestler to becoming a leading brain health advocate. His personal battle with career-ending concussions fuels his work at the Concussion Legacy Foundation, where he aims to advance research, promote safer sports and support affected individuals and families.
Throughout the episode, Dr. Nowinski stresses the importance of awareness regarding repeated head impacts and advocates for systemic changes in youth sports. He challenges early specialization and prolonged contact exposure, suggesting reforms like delaying contact sports and prioritizing informed consent. Additionally, he addresses the responsibilities of major sports organizations, emphasizing the need for transparency and health-focused reforms in ongoing dialogues with the NFL and NHL.
Interested in a particular topic or want to be a guest? Contact us at brandslam@addventures.com. 

Episode 26: PetSmart Purpose: How Corporate Social Responsibility fetches brand loyalty

In Episode 26 of the Brand Slam Podcast, co-host Steve Rosa and (add)ventures President Mary Sadlier explore the impactful world of corporate social responsibility (CSR), featuring insights from Joanne Dwyer, vice president of Corporate Communications and CSR at PetSmart. This episode sheds light on the strategic significance CSR plays in defining brand identity and cultivating consumer trust.
Joanne explains strategies for embedding CSR into PetSmart’s business framework, emphasizing the importance of making sustainable choices accessible for consumers. She highlights how PetSmart’s passionate workforce, fueled by a shared love of pets, drives initiatives that differentiate the company in a competitive market. This shared passion helps to create a deep bond between employees and customers, strengthening the community around the brand. 
Reflecting on her previous experience, Joanne provides insights from the bold corporate decision to eliminate tobacco products at CVS Health. The initiative underscores the impact of aligning actions with core values. 
Focusing on how shared passions and CSR combine to strengthen brand-consumer relationships, Joanne shares key strategies for brands aiming to deepen their impact. The episode offers valuable insights into crafting and communicating CSR narratives that build authentic connections and foster consumer loyalty.
Interested in a particular topic or want to be a guest? Contact us at brandslam@addventures.com.

Overtime: José Andrés’ recipe for success

On this bonus episode of Brand Slam: Overtime, co-host Steve Rosa and (add)ventures President Mary Sadlier share insights from their trip to Washington, D.C., where they explored the world of chef José Andrés, a culinary genius and global humanitarian. During their travels, they visited three of his acclaimed restaurants and witnessed the vibrant storytelling, energy of the staff and innovative spirit that define the José Andrés Group.
The episode follows their journey through a variety of tasty dishes infused with rich stories and smart business ideas. Steve and Mary aim to understand the special touch Andrés has brought to his global brand over the past 30 years, observing how his forward-thinking approach blends remarkable food experiences with clever storytelling and unique dining atmospheres. They also discuss Andrés' commitment to social good, exploring how his brand makes a positive impact beyond the dining experience.
Do you have a topic you'd like us to cover or are you interested in being a guest? Reach out to us at brandslam@addventures.com.

Episode 25: Branding under the influence: Global brands find success with local influencers

In Episode 25 of the Brand Slam Podcast, join hosts Steve Rosa and Joe Kayata as they explore the fascinating world of influencer marketing with Ian Brownhill, a social media influencer celebrated for his authentic New England charm. Ian shares his journey from working construction to support his acting career, to becoming a prominent influencer with over 1.6 million followers across social media platforms. His story highlights the powerful blend of timing, authenticity and relatable content that has enabled him to partner with major brands like Dunkin’.
Ian's unwavering dedication to fostering genuine connections through local storytelling and humor sets him apart, resonating deeply with audiences who appreciate relatable narratives. By leveraging the unique traits of New England culture, Ian builds a bond with followers, transforming everyday experiences into memorable digital moments.
This episode underscores the significance of influencer marketing, especially for reaching Gen Z consumers. Recent reports indicate that 87% of Gen Z favor brands that collaborate with influencers. Through engaging discussions on the power of collaborations, Ian emphasizes the importance of aligning brand values authentically and trusting influencers to integrate brand messages organically.
Discover how Ian navigates the challenges of the ever-evolving social media landscape, maintaining resilience and adaptability amid potential changes like TikTok bans. He provides insights into his evolving strategy, highlighting the benefits of authentic collaboration with other influencers and the strategic efforts that continue to expand his reach and influence while emphasizing the importance of building a resilient personal brand.
Interested in a particular topic or want to be a guest? Contact us at brandslam@addventures.com. 

Episode 24: Heating up the Irish cream market: Coole Swan takes on Baileys’ golden goose

In Episode 24 of the Brand Slam Podcast, host Steve Rosa and guest host Mary Sadlier explore the inspiring journey of Coole Swan, a brand committed to elevating the Irish cream market. Get to know the remarkable connection between our host, Mary Sadlier, and her distant cousin with the same name, Coole Swan founder Mary Sadlier, whose paths intertwined on LinkedIn, and led to a meeting in Dublin, Ireland last summer.
Coole Swan, launched in 2007 and crafted with care in Ireland, stands out in the Irish cream market with its meticulous craftsmanship and compelling storytelling. These elements form genuine connections with consumers who appreciate both a rich narrative and a quality drink. Highlighting its Irish roots and unwavering commitment to excellence, Coole Swan creates a unique bond with those who value tradition and depth of flavor. Having established a strong presence in Ireland and the U.K., Coole Swan is now making waves in the USA. 
This episode uncovers the passion and vision driving Coole Swan’s journey, showcasing how its dedication to authenticity carves out a distinct niche in a market dominated by a dominant brand like Baileys. Beyond just a beverage, Coole Swan transforms the drink into a cultural experience, inviting consumers to rethink their perceptions of Irish cream and positioning itself as a leader in authenticity and passion. Sláinte!
Interested in a particular topic or want to be a guest? Contact us at brandslam@addventures.com.

Episode 23: The Light Side of Branding: Sports, comedy and business with Matt Light & Lenny Clarke

In Episode 23 of the Brand Slam podcast, hosts Steve Rosa and Joe Kayata attend the Matt Light Celebrity Shoot-out at Addieville East Farm. They interview Matt Light about his New England Patriots career and transition to his eponymous foundation brand. Plus, the laughter is non-stop with comedian and actor Lenny Clarke who was in Something About Mary, Rescue Me, and DraftKings commercials.
This event, organized by three-time Super Bowl champion and Light Foundation founder Matt Light, raises funds to provide young people with hands-on learning experiences outside of their everyday environments. Matt reflects on his transition from being a New England Patriot to leading the Light Foundation. He shares how the lessons he learned on the field—successes, failures and the people he met—served as a catalyst for the Foundation's growth. 
A supporter of the foundation, Boston comedian Lenny Clarke, a well-known figure in the comedy and acting world, adds a touch of humor to the episode. With a career that spans movies, TV shows and TV commercials, including the memorable Sam Adams Super Bowl commercial, he discusses the importance of authenticity, especially in Boston. He shares funny anecdotes from Hollywood auditions and these iconic commercials, while underlining the crucial role of humor in advertising and everyday life.
To learn more about the Light Foundation, visit https://www.mattlight72.com/
Interested in a particular topic or want to be a guest? Contact us at brandslam@addventures.com. 
 

Episode 22: Leaders among leaders

In Episode 22 of the Brand Slam podcast, hosts Steve Rosa and Joe Kayata attend the Association of Leadership Programs (ALP) National Conference in Providence, Rhode Island. They speak with Michelle Carr, executive director of Leadership Rhode Island (LRI), and Lura Hammond, executive director of ALP.
Michelle shares the immense honor LRI feels hosting the event—this is the first time since 1988 that they’ve had the opportunity. She reflects on the rich history of LRI and the hard work that’s led to this moment, sharing the pride and excitement of bringing such a prestigious event to Rhode Island.
Lura discusses the wide-reaching membership of ALP, which extends across the country and includes participants globally. She emphasizes the conference’s role as a unique platform for global engagement and connection—she explains the value lies not only in the diverse learning opportunities but also in the invaluable connections made among attendees.
Both guests highlight the essential qualities needed in today’s rapidly evolving world, such as passion, collaboration, critical thinking, empathy and leading by example. They believe these traits are crucial for effective leadership and can significantly impact overcoming challenges faced by leaders today.
Interested in a particular topic or want to be a guest? Contact us at brandslam@addventures.com.