The most unpredictable podcast in the world
(probably)
The elevator pitch
This is the Cocktail Napkin Strategy podcast, with your host Ian Huntley. In this series, we’ll dive into the world of advertising and marketing in hypothetical form. Think of this as if ad-libs had a baby with business school case studies.
I’ll be joined by a variety of guests who have built their careers around business and marketing, and together, we’ll share a drink and some creative banter. The format of this podcast will be similar to Harvard case studies, but with a twist; I’ll present a real-world company, along with a business scenario, but one that’s on the fringe of outrageous. I’ll ask my guests to pitch a strategy to me, and I to them, about what we’d recommend for these companies through the marketing strategy lens.
The inspiration
Mad Men, season 1, episode 1, opening scene: we are introduced to Don Draper, fictitiously renowned creative director, drafting ideas for a client after-hours at a bar. He’s writing his notes and thoughts on a cocktail napkin. If you’re in the industry, you know; we’ve all been there.
CNS is meant to spur creative thinking and problem-solving, and to be an outlet outside of our normal marketing jobs dictated by unruly clients or conservative budgets. We tend to work within uninspiring formulas.
My goal for this series isn’t to gain followers or sponsors, nor to make money. Frankly, I feel a bit like a corpo marketing hamster in the proverbial wheel; I miss my agency days and the immersive and inspiring ad work. This is my outlet to re-discover the spark that fueled my passion in this industry and I hope you find the same value in this podcast.
I want you to walk away with new ideas and perspectives that can help you as creatives and strategists. It’s a chance to flex those creative and strategic muscles while you’re on your drive home, or relaxing with a drink at home after work. If you’re not in the industry, we’ll keep things fun and layman. For you, I hope you come to better understand the marketing industry and realize the beauty and art that drives the love for our work.
Ian Huntley
I’m a marketing and advertising professional, living in beautiful Chicago. I worked in adland after college as an account manager and strategist. I eventually got my MBA and pivoted to corporate marketing after graduation.
I’ve touched everything from comm strategies and branding, to digital content and large-scale campaigns. I’m just trying to make my mark in the ad world.
What I order: Whiskey Sour, Guinness, Malort (only if it’s your first visit Chicago)