We sat down with leading marketing executives to talk marketing, leadership, and above all humanity. Their stories are real, inspiring, and packed with takeaways you’ll want to hear. Watch their conversations with Whitney Wolder from Hey Sis, Eat This podcast and see how they’re shaping what leadership looks like in the industry today.
Vanessa Santana, Brand Marketing Director, TPH by Taraji & Fine’ry, Maesa
Vanessa shares how intuition, inclusion, and storytelling shape her approach to brand building. She reflects on lessons from her mother’s courage and her mentor’s example, and how they taught her to lead with authenticity and cultural awareness. Her perspective highlights how curiosity and creativity drive connection, especially in an ever-evolving beauty and fragrance industry.
Renee Whittingstall, EVP, Global Digital Operations and Innovation, UM Worldwide
Renee shares what it means to lead with both strength and vulnerability. She reflects on how embracing emotion and authenticity has deepened her connection with her team and why she sees vulnerability as a leader’s greatest advantage. From lessons learned from her mother’s resilience to mentors who reinforced her confidence, she highlights how self-awareness and conviction drive lasting impact.
Kathleen O’Shaughnessy, Direct to Consumer Channel Lead, Hero Cosmetics
Kathleen shares how honesty, humanity, and balance define her leadership approach. She reflects on lessons from her mother’s fearlessness and how growing up with three brothers taught her to never underestimate herself. From speaking candidly at work to bringing empathy into her marketing, Kathleen shows how authenticity and perspective create lasting impact.