If you’re tired of conforming to "rules of society", it might be time to reconnect with your childhood dreams. Rei welcomes Haruka Aoki, a Japanese poet and illustrator, who made the bold transition from the corporate ladder to the vibrant world of art. Haruka details their journey from working as an art director in a healthcare company to becoming an acclaimed artist with works featured in publications like the New York Times and the Washington Post. The conversation highlights Haruka's tailored approach to pitching their unique, visually rich narrative stories, addressing cultural themes like AAPI heritage and the universal love of public libraries. Haruka Aoki is a queer Japanese poet-illustrator and hope bender. They write and illustrate a regular narrative art column in The New York Times. Their picture book about a square navigating a world of circles, "Fitting In," was published in 2022 by Sky Pony Press / Simon & Schuster. Haruka’s narrative artwork aims to inspire individuals with both wit and sincerity as their hand-drawn characters engage the world around them. Growing up often unsure of where “home” would be next, Haruka has befriended the abundant imagination found in nature and community, a constant starting point in their work. By foraging inspiration from ancestral and metaphysical realms to nurture their artistic practice, they hope to grow and provide an accessible space for collective healing. Haruka often feels deeply grateful to be an earthling. Timestamps:0:03 Finding Your Place in the World Through Creativity2:36 Haruka Aoki's Journey From Corporate Life to Artistic Freedom7:14 Haruka Aoki's Journey From Corporate to Narrative Artist14:43 An Ode to Public Libraries and Their Cultural Impact17:28 Embracing Their Artistic Career21:40 Rediscovering Inner Child Through Creative Freedom26:30 Becoming a Full-Time Artist27:58 Key Takeaway Episode References:Haruka Aoki | WebsiteHaruka Aoki | NewsletterHaruka Aoki | InstagramRei Inamoto | InstagramI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Rei Inamoto dives into how brand purpose lost its plot and why it’s up to CEOs, not CMOs, to fix it. The Intersection is Rei’s free newsletter, exploring what the future holds at the intersection of creativity and technology. Subscribe to The Intersection to receive his latest editions directly in your inbox. Episode References:Purpose v. Growth | ArticleRei Inamoto | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alternative career choices? Next travel destinations? Favorite food? We welcome back BREAKFAST for a fun round of lightning questions. Andrew Zolty, known professionally as BREAKFAST, is a data and kinetic artist whose work centers on transforming real-time data from the natural world into digitally controlled kinetic artworks that tell stories. From the waves crashing on the beaches of Normandy to solar activity on the sun’s surface, BREAKFAST’s pieces draw this data from the web and transform these fluctuations into mesmerizing, undulating sculptures, creating a profound connection between the viewer and distant places. BREAKFAST's passion for art, electronics, and computers, which began in his childhood, has led him to merge these elements throughout his adult life. Developing skills in art, coding, interaction design, and mechanical and electrical engineering, he became fascinated by the vast streams of data constantly generated around us. This fascination drives his work, as he finds ways to translate data into physical experiences that tell stories of real-time events. Over the past 15 years, BREAKFAST has grown his studio into an engineering powerhouse, allowing for the complete in-house production of his works. This capability pushes creativity and quality to their furthest limits, with ideas inspiring engineering and engineering enabling new artistic expressions. Episode References:BREAKFAST | InstagramBREAKFAST | WebsiteRei Inamoto | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

If you can teach yourself to focus, you'll find more hours in the day. Rei welcomes Andrew Zolty, an acclaimed data and kinetic artist professional known as BREAKFAST, for a behind-the-scenes look at his creative process. They discuss BREAKFAST’s transition from commercial design to full-time artistry and how he’s built a business around kinetic sculptures using real-time data. BREAKFAST shares insights into marketing, client interactions, the challenges of large-scale installations, and candid advice on why focus matters in the creative industry. Andrew Zolty, known professionally as BREAKFAST, is a data and kinetic artist whose work centers on transforming real-time data from the natural world into digitally controlled kinetic artworks that tell stories. From the waves crashing on the beaches of Normandy to solar activity on the sun’s surface, BREAKFAST’s pieces draw this data from the web and transform these fluctuations into mesmerizing, undulating sculptures, creating a profound connection between the viewer and distant places. BREAKFAST's passion for art, electronics, and computers, which began in his childhood, has led him to merge these elements throughout his adult life. Developing skills in art, coding, interaction design, and mechanical and electrical engineering, he became fascinated by the vast streams of data constantly generated around us. This fascination drives his work, as he finds ways to translate data into physical experiences that tell stories of real-time events. Over the past 15 years, BREAKFAST has grown his studio into an engineering powerhouse, allowing for the complete in-house production of his works. This capability pushes creativity and quality to their furthest limits, with ideas inspiring engineering and engineering enabling new artistic expressions. Timestamps:0:03 Pursuing a Creative Life at the Intersection of Art and Technology2:21 The Art of Marketing and Identity in the Art World7:39 Creating Wow Art Pieces with Real-Time Data and Storytelling14:57 Navigating Artistic Collaborations and Maintaining Creative Ownership17:04 Creating Kinetic Sculptures for Cruise Ships and Outdoor Spaces23:39 The Power of Focus in Creative Pursuits Episode References:BREAKFAST | InstagramBREAKFAST | WebsiteRei Inamoto | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Using unique mediums can help differentiate an artist's work, giving it both distinctive appeal and commercial viability. Rei sits down with Andrew Zolty, an acclaimed data and kinetic artist widely recognized by his professional name, BREAKFAST. The episode delves into BREAFAST's career journey from being a commercial developer to a full-time kinetic artist. Known for integrating real-time data and engineering into his artworks, BREAKFAST shares invaluable insights into the trials, tribulations, and triumphs of forging a unique path in the art world. Andrew Zolty, known professionally as BREAKFAST, is a data and kinetic artist whose work centers on transforming real-time data from the natural world into digitally controlled kinetic artworks that tell stories. From the waves crashing on the beaches of Normandy to solar activity on the sun’s surface, BREAKFAST’s pieces draw this data from the web and transform these fluctuations into mesmerizing, undulating sculptures, creating a profound connection between the viewer and distant places. BREAKFAST's passion for art, electronics, and computers, which began in his childhood, has led him to merge these elements throughout his adult life. Developing skills in art, coding, interaction design, and mechanical and electrical engineering, he became fascinated by the vast streams of data constantly generated around us. This fascination drives his work, as he finds ways to translate data into physical experiences that tell stories of real-time events. Over the past 15 years, BREAKFAST has grown his studio into an engineering powerhouse, allowing for the complete in-house production of his works. This capability pushes creativity and quality to their furthest limits, with ideas inspiring engineering and engineering enabling new artistic expressions. Timestamps:0:03 Creative Evolution: From Commercial Designer to Kinetic Artist6:17 From Digital Concepts to Art: A Creative Evolution11:43 Creating AI Experiences for Bikes and Blimps16:05 Embracing Career Transitions Through Unique Skill Combinations20:48 Balancing Artistry and Business in Creative Ventures27:12 The Evolution of Kinetic Art and Creative Mediums Episode References:BREAKFAST | InstagramBREAKFAST | WebsiteRei Inamoto | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alternative career choices? Next travel destinations? Favorite food? We welcome back Merlee Jayme for a fun round of lightning questions. 2025 ADFEST LOTUS LEGEND Merlee has dedicated her life to pushing creativity forward. She is the Chairmom® and founder of The Misfits Camp, the first-ever safe space in the world to assess and upskill neurodivergent and deaf creative adults and bridge them to the creative industry. And just this year, she founded Jayme Headquarters, a social enterprise creative agency that provides actual workplace experience for divergent creatives. Before this, Merlee was an advertising veteran and a creative leader. She was Dentsu McGarryBowen Global co-president and led Dentsu International APAC as Chief Creative Officer to greater heights by winning the Adfest Network of the Year 2020 and 2022, Spikes Network of the Year 2021, Cannes Lions Regional Network of the Year 2021, and AD STARS Network of the Year 2021. Her work pushes Insights and innovation and inspires creative collaboration. Having received major awards, including the Philippines’ only Cannes Lions Grand Prix, she was one of the eight women in the world’s top 100 Chief Creative Officers according to the 2019 Drum Global Ranking. The first Filipino to be named Creative of the Year in Southeast Asia by Campaign Asia, she was also recognized with the 4As of the Philippines Lifetime Achievement Awardee in 2023, the Hall of Fame Award by the 4As Creative Guild, The New York Festivals Creative Achievement Award, and the CEO of the Year by the International Association of Business Communicators, the Asian Marketing Federation Woman Marketer of the Year 2019, and the Campaign Asia’s Women Leading Change Women’s Advancement Champion for her creative work for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in 2024. Merlee is one of CNN’s Leading Women, the author/illustrator of four creative books, the mom of four creative women, and an inspiration for breaking the glass ceiling in this mad men’s world. Episode References:Merlee Jayme | TikTokMerlee Jayme | LinkedInMerlee Jayme | FacebookRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Neurodiversity isn’t a disability, but a different wiring of the brain. Distinguished creative leader Merlee Jayme joins Rei for another episode to explore the current state of neurodiversity in the creative sector, examining the complexities and untapped potential it brings to the workplace. In the conversation, Merlee recounts her pivotal moment in her life two years ago, sparked by observing her young nephew with autism, which led her to establish Misfits Camp—a training center for neurodiverse young adults in the Philippines. 2025 ADFEST LOTUS LEGEND Merlee has dedicated her life to pushing creativity forward. She is the Chairmom® and founder of The Misfits Camp, the first-ever safe space in the world to assess and upskill neurodivergent and deaf creative adults and bridge them to the creative industry. And just this year, she founded Jayme Headquarters, a social enterprise creative agency that provides actual workplace experience for divergent creatives. Before this, Merlee was an advertising veteran and a creative leader. She was Dentsu McGarryBowen Global co-president and led Dentsu International APAC as Chief Creative Officer to greater heights by winning the Adfest Network of the Year 2020 and 2022, Spikes Network of the Year 2021, Cannes Lions Regional Network of the Year 2021, and AD STARS Network of the Year 2021. Her work pushes Insights and innovation and inspires creative collaboration. Having received major awards, including the Philippines’ only Cannes Lions Grand Prix, she was one of the eight women in the world’s top 100 Chief Creative Officers according to the 2019 Drum Global Ranking. The first Filipino to be named Creative of the Year in Southeast Asia by Campaign Asia, she was also recognized with the 4As of the Philippines Lifetime Achievement Awardee in 2023, the Hall of Fame Award by the 4As Creative Guild, The New York Festivals Creative Achievement Award, and the CEO of the Year by the International Association of Business Communicators, the Asian Marketing Federation Woman Marketer of the Year 2019, and the Campaign Asia’s Women Leading Change Women’s Advancement Champion for her creative work for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in 2024. Merlee is one of CNN’s Leading Women, the author/illustrator of four creative books, the mom of four creative women, and an inspiration for breaking the glass ceiling in this mad men’s world. Timestamps:0:03 Empowering Neurodiverse Talent Through Creative Training4:44 Exploring Neurodiversity and Its Unique Strengths8:49 Discovering and Nurturing Neurodiverse Talents for Creative Careers15:00 Building a Creative Ecosystem with Misfits Camp and Agency18:18 Embracing Neurodiversity in the Creative Industry Episode References:Merlee Jayme | TikTokMerlee Jayme | LinkedInMerlee Jayme | FacebookRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What if the key to balancing work and life isn’t balancing at all? Rei speaks with Merlee Jayme, a distinguished creative leader from the Philippines, to explore the integration of work and life for success, a strategy honed by Merlee throughout her illustrious career in the creative industry. Her unique approach has not only made her a role model in her field but also provides valuable insights for anyone struggling with the perennial challenge of work-life balance. Throughout the discussion, Merlee shares personal anecdotes and practical advice on how to seamlessly integrate professional ambitions with familial responsibilities. She reflects on the title she chose, “Chairmom,” which embodies her dedication to leading her agency and nurturing her family simultaneously. 2025 ADFEST LOTUS LEGEND Merlee has dedicated her life to pushing creativity forward. She is the Chairmom® and founder of The Misfits Camp, the first-ever safe space in the world to assess and upskill neurodivergent and deaf creative adults and bridge them to the creative industry. And just this year, she founded Jayme Headquarters, a social enterprise creative agency that provides actual workplace experience for divergent creatives. Before this, Merlee was an advertising veteran and a creative leader. She was Dentsu McGarryBowen Global co-president and led Dentsu International APAC as Chief Creative Officer to greater heights by winning the Adfest Network of the Year 2020 and 2022, Spikes Network of the Year 2021, Cannes Lions Regional Network of the Year 2021, and AD STARS Network of the Year 2021. Her work pushes Insights and innovation and inspires creative collaboration. Having received major awards, including the Philippines’ only Cannes Lions Grand Prix, she was one of the eight women in the world’s top 100 Chief Creative Officers according to the 2019 Drum Global Ranking. The first Filipino to be named Creative of the Year in Southeast Asia by Campaign Asia, she was also recognized with the 4As of the Philippines Lifetime Achievement Awardee in 2023, the Hall of Fame Award by the 4As Creative Guild, The New York Festivals Creative Achievement Award, and the CEO of the Year by the International Association of Business Communicators, the Asian Marketing Federation Woman Marketer of the Year 2019, and the Campaign Asia’s Women Leading Change Women’s Advancement Champion for her creative work for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion in 2024. Merlee is one of CNN’s Leading Women, the author/illustrator of four creative books, the mom of four creative women, and an inspiration for breaking the glass ceiling in this mad men’s world. Timestamps:0:03 Balancing Work and Life Through the Chair Mom Leadership4:54 Integrating Career Ambition and Motherhood Seamlessly7:40 Balancing Professional Duties and Personal Life Seamlessly9:26 Balancing Motherhood and a Creative Career in Advertising11:11 Balancing Motherhood and Ambition in Leadership Roles14:26 Balancing Career, Family, and Gender Roles in Marriage17:33 A Calm Response to a Terrifying Carjacking Incident20:37 Balancing Creativity, Respect, and Instinct in Marriage23:42 Creative Solutions to Overcome Bullying and Boost Confidence25:34 Balancing Family and Career in the Advertising World29:24 Balancing Ambitions and Family Life for Women31:25 Integrating Work and Life for Seamless Success Episode References:Merlee Jayme | TikTokMerlee Jayme | LinkedInMerlee Jayme | FacebookRei Inamoto | InstagramI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alternative career choices? Next travel destinations? Favorite food? We welcome back Rishad Tobaccowala for a fun round of lightning questions. Tobaccowala was named by BusinessWeek as one of the top business leaders for his pioneering innovation and TIME magazine dubbed him one of five “Marketing Innovators.  Rishad is the author of “Restoring the Soul of Business: Staying Human in The Age of Data” which helps people think, feel, and see differently about how to grow their companies, their teams and themselves to remain relevant in transformational time and the upcoming “Re-Thinking Work”  to be published globally by HarperCollins in February 2025 which helps people thrive amidst the seismic changes that will occur at work due a combination of changing demographics, new mindsets, the rise of distributed work, and the spread of AI.  Rishad Tobaccowala remains a Senior Advisor to the Publicis Groupe where he has spent his entire 37 career, most recently serving as the Chief Growth Officer and Chief Strategist of the 106,000 person firm. Episode References:Rishad Tobaccowala | WebsiteRishad Tobaccowala | SubstackRishad Tobaccowala | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Career relevance is a constant concern throughout anyone’s career, according to Rishad Tobaccowala, a visionary in creative business strategy and four-decade-long advisor to professionals and organizations. In this second episode, we discuss the common concerns that middle and senior managerial professionals encounter amidst continual change and technological advancements, such as AI. Rishad shares philosophies for career longevity and actionable tips for relevance, including dedicating an hour daily to learning, critically assessing opposing viewpoints, and focusing on creating rather than managing. Tobaccowala was named by BusinessWeek as one of the top business leaders for his pioneering innovation and TIME magazine dubbed him one of five “Marketing Innovators.  Rishad is the author of “Restoring the Soul of Business: Staying Human in The Age of Data” which helps people think, feel, and see differently about how to grow their companies, their teams and themselves to remain relevant in transformational time and the upcoming “Re-Thinking Work”  to be published globally by HarperCollins in February 2025 which helps people thrive amidst the seismic changes that will occur at work due a combination of changing demographics, new mindsets, the rise of distributed work, and the spread of AI.  Rishad Tobaccowala remains a Senior Advisor to the Publicis Groupe where he has spent his entire 37 career, most recently serving as the Chief Growth Officer and Chief Strategist of the 106,000 person firm. Timestamps:0:00 Intro4:42 The Importance of Allocating Time for Daily Learning8:41 Rethinking Leadership: Learning, Opposing Views, and Creative Growth13:00 Discipline as a Pathway to Freedom and Growth15:24 Finding Joy and Growth in the Crevices of Life22:17 Three Steps to Stay Relevant Episode References:Rishad Tobaccowala | WebsiteRishad Tobaccowala | SubstackRishad Tobaccowala | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The future of work isn't just about where we work, but how and why. Rei talks with Rishad Tobaccowala, a visionary in creative business strategy, to dissect the evolving landscape of work amid societal and technological upheavals. As the pandemic and AI innovations reshape global work dynamics, Rishad shares his unique insights on how both companies and leaders can adapt to these changes effectively.  Throughout the discussion, Rishad highlights five critical shifts reshaping the workplace: societal, technological, market, office, and mindset shifts. With clear, actionable strategies, Rishad delves into the implications of these shifts. Tobaccowala was named by BusinessWeek as one of the top business leaders for his pioneering innovation and TIME magazine dubbed him one of five “Marketing Innovators.  Rishad is the author of “Restoring the Soul of Business: Staying Human in The Age of Data” which helps people think, feel, and see differently about how to grow their companies, their teams and themselves to remain relevant in transformational time and the upcoming “Re-Thinking Work”  to be published globally by HarperCollins in February 2025 which helps people thrive amidst the seismic changes that will occur at work due a combination of changing demographics, new mindsets, the rise of distributed work, and the spread of AI.  Rishad Tobaccowala remains a Senior Advisor to the Publicis Groupe where he has spent his entire 37 career, most recently serving as the Chief Growth Officer and Chief Strategist of the 106,000 person firm. Timestamps:0:03 Exploring Seismic Changes in Work with Rishad Tobaccowala4:04 The Future of Work: Societal Shifts and Technological Advances8:04 Reinventing Work: The Rise of Small Companies and AI12:24 The Rise of Fractionalized Employees in the Modern Workforce13:54 The Rise of New Leadership and Workplace Dynamics23:19 Five Shifts and Four Actions for Modern Business Success24:36 Four Takeaways Episode References:Rishad Tobaccowala | WebsiteRishad Tobaccowala | SubstackRishad Tobaccowala | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this second episode with VP of Creative at Liquid Death, Andy Pearson, we explore the critical role of humor, the importance of taking time off to gain fresh perspectives, and the benefits of committing fully to creative ideas. Andy shares insights into his approach to marketing and life, reflecting on past experiences such as selling high-priced cookies to fund a pivotal career moment, and discusses how his extreme ultramarathon running influences his creative mindset. Andy is the VP of Creative at Liquid Death, one of the fastest growing non-alc beverage brands of all time. As part of Liquid Death's evil mission to make the world healthier and more sustainable, Andy helps oversee all the hilarious creative output from the brand, from its viral video content to social content to merch to experiential events to CRM and more. Prior, Andy spent 12+ years as an award-winning creative at agencies like CP+B, Deutsch LA, and Humanaut. He thinks marketing sucks and we should make entertainment instead. Timestamps:0:03 Rewriting Brand Marketing Rules with Humor and Innovation1:35 The Balance of Risk and Humor in Liquid Death's Marketing5:06 Respectful Marketing Through Creativity and Organic Content8:04 Creative Students Fund Cannes Trip with $500 Cookies10:44 A Year of Travel and Freelancing Sparks Career Transformation13:21 The Mental and Physical Challenges of Ultramarathon Running16:36 Balancing Extreme Work and Nature for Personal Growth20:00 Three Takeaways Episode References:Andy Pearson | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Liquid Death's approach to marketing? Don't just market – entertain. Rei talks with VP of Creative at Liquid Death, Andy Pearson, about how the unconventional brand uses humor, creative audacity, and bold characterization to elevate its marketing strategy. Andy discusses the origins of his relationship with the brand's CEO, his process of envisioning Liquid Death as a character rather than just a brand, and how this perspective drives their creative decisions. With a focus on engaging audiences through entertainment rather than traditional marketing, Andy reveals the power of small, impactful ideas that change perceptions and create deeper connections with consumers. Andy is the VP of Creative at Liquid Death, one of the fastest growing non-alc beverage brands of all time. As part of Liquid Death's evil mission to make the world healthier and more sustainable, Andy helps oversee all the hilarious creative output from the brand, from its viral video content to social content to merch to experiential events to CRM and more. Prior, Andy spent 12+ years as an award-winning creative at agencies like CP+B, Deutsch LA, and Humanaut. He thinks marketing sucks and we should make entertainment instead. Timestamps:0:03 Liquid Death's Creative Evolution and Explosive Growth4:29 Liquid Death's Journey from Skepticism to Market Success9:01 Liquid Death's Unique Marketing Approach Through Character-Driven Strategy12:24 The Creative Journey and Evolution of Liquid Death18:05 The Power of Humor in Building Emotional Connections19:16 Creative Marketing Strategies with Liquid Death's Andy Pearson Episode References:Andy Pearson | LinkedInRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alternative career choices? Next travel destinations? Favorite food? We welcome back David Charles Rodrigues for a fun round of lightning questions. David loves to give brands and IP the soul and longevity they deserve.  His work is part of the permanent collection of the Academy Museum - he is a Sundance alumni and TriBeCa Award-winning Brazilian-American filmmaker and creative director. In 2024, he World Premiered his latest feature S/he is Still Her/e at the TriBeCa Film Festival as well as the new Apple TV series Omnivore featuring NOMA Chef Rene Redzepi. Previously, he directed and produced the Netflix original series NEYMAR: The Perfect Chaos. Selected as one of the Top Ten documentaries of 2022, according to Esquire. It was one of the most watched docu-series globally on Netflix, making it to the Top Ten in over 50 countries. The series is Executive produced by Lebron James and Maverick Carter.  In 2019, he wrote and directed Airbnb's first ever feature film Gay Chorus Deep South - winner of best doc at the 2019 TriBeCa Film Festival, a silver lion at Cannes and selected to Rotten Tomatoes list of the top 20 LGBTQ films of all time. The film was sold to MTV Documentary Films as its first Oscar contender and is available on Paramount plus. It has become part of the permanent collection of the Academy Museum.  David has been a Creative Director/Writer in Advertising since 2001. He has worked at top creative agencies, directly with Fortune 500 brands and his work has been recognized by all the major festivals.  His latest clients include Apple, Adidas global and Google Photos. Creative directing, concepting and writing Global campaign platforms, content and product launches.  Episode References:David Charles Rodrigues | InstagramDavid Charles Rodrigues | PortfolioRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Pursuing dual career paths can be mutually beneficial and, at times, feed creativity. In this second episode with award-winning filmmaker David Charles Rodrigues, known for his work on Netflix's “Neymar: The Perfect Chaos,” we dive into how David’s dual roles in advertising and filmmaking feed into each other, the current creative industry landscape and the evolution of storytelling across different platforms. The conversation further delves into the role of advertising in the modern age and how the industry maintains its influence amidst a surge of user-generated content. David’s perspective offers a unique lens on why advertising continues to hold relevance and how creativity can inspire societal change. Timestamps:0:03 Staying Relevant in Creative Careers Amid Technological Shifts2:31 Balancing Filmmaking and Advertising for Creative and Financial Fulfillment5:30 The Cost of Being a True Artist and Parent9:54 Finding Meaning and Community in Advertising and Entertainment12:55 Exploring Film, Community Engagement, and Brand-Funded Advertising14:32 The Power of Advertising and Product in Modern Culture17:28 Bridging Entertainment and Advertising Through Original Branded Content17:56 Balancing Filmmaking and Marketing in a Changing Industry21:00 Three Takeaways Episode References:David Charles Rodrigues | InstagramDavid Charles Rodrigues | PortfolioRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Could writing and storytelling be the key to self-discovery? Rei talks with award-winning filmmaker David Charles Rodrigues to hear how it was for him, and how it might inspire you too. This week’s episode dives into David’s dual career in filmmaking and advertising, highlighting his transition from a creative director at leading agencies to crafting compelling documentaries that resonate with global audiences. Throughout the conversation, David shares candid insights into his process of storytelling, emphasizing the magic of creativity and the emotional depth of his narratives. Timestamps:0:03 Balancing Dual Careers in Filmmaking and Advertising5:23 Crafting Documentaries: From Dream Characters to Unexpected Stories9:11 The Therapeutic Power of Storytelling and Writing16:42 Creativity as the Human Expression of Magic20:01 Three Takeaways Episode References:David Charles Rodrigues | InstagramDavid Charles Rodrigues | PortfolioRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alternative career choices? Next travel destinations? Favorite food? We welcome back Angela Onuoha for a fun round of lightning questions. Angela is the most established and well-known trichologist and Cosmetic Chemist within the creator space. Her advocation for diversity has made her a true force for good within the beauty industry. Angela isn’t just an influencer, she is an educator who is leading input into efficacious formulations and the importance of ingredients. She is working with the globe’s leading hair care brands, advising on product diversity and launching new innovations through her own channels. As a half Nigerian, half Dutch woman who has unfortunately experienced racism first-hand, Angela has been on a journey of self-acceptance, and is on a mission to empower and inspire others.  If you’re interested in exploring how brands create cultural influence, join Rei and global brand executive Ana Andjelic on their new podcast “Hitmakers: How Brands Influence Culture”. Every two weeks, Ana and Rei talk about brands that made a dent in culture - through their product, aesthetics, content, business model, or technology - and unpack how they did it. Episode References:Angela Onuoha | InstagramHitmakers Podcast | YouTubeHitmakers Podcast | Apple PodcastsHitmakers Podcast | SpotifyRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The importance of personality and sharing well-researched knowledge outweighs the value of viral content. In this second part of Rei’s talk with trichologist and content creator Angela Onuoha, we hear about her daily routine, the strategic choices behind her content creation, and how she balances authenticity with platform algorithms. Angela breaks down her structured yet flexible schedule, emphasizing the importance of planning and adaptability in a fast-paced digital world. The conversation offers unique insights on maintaining authenticity, the challenges of content creation on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, and her aspirations for the future, using her expertise to demystify hair care science. Angela is the most established and well-known trichologist and Cosmetic Chemist within the creator space. Her advocation for diversity has made her a true force for good within the beauty industry. Angela isn’t just an influencer, she is an educator who is leading input into efficacious formulations and the importance of ingredients. She is working with the globe’s leading hair care brands, advising on product diversity and launching new innovations through her own channels. As a half Nigerian, half Dutch woman who has unfortunately experienced racism first-hand, Angela has been on a journey of self-acceptance, and is on a mission to empower and inspire others.  If you’re interested in exploring how brands create cultural influence, join Rei and global brand executive Ana Andjelic on their new podcast “Hitmakers: How Brands Influence Culture”. Every two weeks, Ana and Rei talk about brands that made a dent in culture - through their product, aesthetics, content, business model, or technology - and unpack how they did it. Timestamps: 0:03 A Day in the Life of a Content Creator 3:52 Balancing Content Creation and Audience Engagement Across Platforms 8:21 Uniqueness in Simplifying Science and Personal Interaction 10:06 Balancing Content Quality and Algorithm Challenges in Content Creation 15:10 Angela Onuoha's Ambitions in Brand Collaboration and Offline Presence 16:51 The Importance of Truth Over Image in Social Media Episode References:Angela Onuoha | InstagramHitmakers Podcast | YouTubeHitmakers Podcast | Apple PodcastsHitmakers Podcast | SpotifyRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Perfect jobs are not something you find, but something you create for yourself. Rei talks with Angela Onuoha, a pioneering trichologist and content creator from Amsterdam, to unpack her unique journey into the creator economy. Angela shares how her cultural background and personal experiences with hair care led her to a path she never anticipated—becoming an influential voice in the trichology community. The conversation delves into the evolution of the creator economy and its substantial impact on culture and business today. Angela is the most established and well-known trichologist and Cosmetic Chemist within the creator space. Her advocation for diversity has made her a true force for good within the beauty industry. Angela isn’t just an influencer, she is an educator who is leading input into efficacious formulations and the importance of ingredients. She is working with the globe’s leading hair care brands, advising on product diversity and launching new innovations through her own channels. As a half Nigerian, half Dutch woman who has unfortunately experienced racism first-hand, Angela has been on a journey of self-acceptance, and is on a mission to empower and inspire others.  If you’re interested in exploring how brands create cultural influence, join Rei and global brand executive Ana Andjelic on their new podcast “Hitmakers: How Brands Influence Culture”. Every two weeks, the two co-hosts talk about brands that made a dent in culture - through their product, aesthetics, content, business model, or technology - and unpack how they did it. Timestamps:0:03 Exploring Trichology and the Creator Economy with Angela Onuoha1:55 Cultural Influences and Career Challenges in Angela's Journey5:14 From Retail Management to Creative Exploration and Teaching11:21 From Hair Tutorials to Trichology: A Journey of Discovery19:01 Angela Onuoha's Journey to Becoming a Full-Time Content Creator28:53 Angela Onuoha's Journey From Law Student to Trichologist Creator32:43 Creating Your Perfect Job and Embracing Career Evolution34:09 Announcing the Hitmakers: How Brands Influence Culture Podcast Episode References:Angela Onuoha | InstagramHitmakers Podcast | YouTubeHitmakers Podcast | Apple PodcastsHitmakers Podcast | SpotifyRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Alternative career choices? Next travel destinations? Favorite food? We welcome back Kevin Bethune for a fun round of lightning questions. Kevin Bethune is the Founder & Chief Creative Officer of dreams • design + life, a think tank that delivers design & innovation services using a human-centered approach. He's also the best-selling author of Reimagining Design: Unlocking Strategic Innovation (The MIT Press) released in March 2022. His second book, Nonlinear: Navigating Design with Curiosity and Conviction (The MIT Press), will be coming out February 4, 2025. Kevin's background spans engineering, business and design in equal proportion over his 25+ year career, positioning him to help brands deliver meaningful innovations to enrich people's lives. His work represents creative problem-solving that brings multidisciplinary teams together to see the future through an open aperture, and a deep industrial design approach to inform and influence desirable, feasible and business-viable design outcomes. Episode References:Kevin Bethune | Kevin's 2nd book NONLINEAR is available for pre-order Kevin Bethune | Online Portfoliodreams • design + life | Corporate SiteRei Inamoto | InstagramRei Inamoto | XI&CO | Corporate Site See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.