NexGen CMO Podcast

Brian Gladstein on cybersecurity marketing transformation at Tufin

In this episode, Kelly Hopping sits down with Brian Gladstein, CMO of Tufin, to explore how marketing, data, and customer alignment can drive transformation in a rapidly shifting security landscape. Brian shares his journey from engineer to marketing leader, the lessons he’s learned guiding organizations through disruption, and the pivotal role of trust, transparency, and customer voice in reshaping a brand. From leveraging data-driven funnels to building customer advisory boards and partnering with analysts like Gartner, Brian explains the strategies that helped Tufin pivot from firewall management to broader network security posture management, tripling cloud revenue and reigniting growth. Tune in to hear how to lead with clarity during times of chaos, align sales and marketing around shared truth, and turn change into opportunity.

Bruno Bertini's advice on becoming a modern CMO

In this episode, Kelly Hopping sits down with Bruno Bertini, Chief Marketing Officer at 8x8, to explore what it takes to build an impactful career in marketing and lead with authenticity in today’s tech-driven landscape. Bruno shares how his unconventional journey—spanning customer experience, sales, and marketing—shaped his deep understanding of buyer psychology and organizational transformation. From orchestrating AI-powered brand strategies to leading a company-wide pivot from UCaaS to CX, Bruno offers pragmatic insights on harmonizing long-term brand equity with short-term revenue pressure. He discusses building marketing culture from the inside out, developing nuanced customer messaging, and why he believes zigzagging through disciplines is a leadership advantage, not a liability. Tune in to hear how Bruno leverages AI to scale messaging, the importance of emotional buyer insights, and why curiosity is the new superpower for modern CMOs.

Ed Breault on communicating with clarity and leading with curiosity

Ed Breault, CMO of Malbek, joins Kelly to share his journey from nuclear energy to MarTech to legal tech, and why seeking discomfort fuels his growth. Together they unpack boardroom communication strategies, AI-first mindsets, and the importance of building diagnostic pipelines. With stories of “buzzsaw” boardroom moments and lessons in pacing, Ed offers tactical advice for navigating executive visibility and embracing curiosity-driven leadership.

Zarina Stanford on Mission-Driven Authentic Leadership

What does it take to lead with purpose and drive business growth marketing? Zarina Stanford, CMO of Bazaarvoice, joins Kelly to share her journey, the power of being mission-driven, and how presence and engagement shape leadership. Together they dive into cross-functional alignment, the art and science of marketing, and offer practical advice for aspiring leaders on finding their voice and embracing agility.

Bryan Law on Brains, Data, and Distinction

What happens when you blend data, psychology, and storytelling in marketing leadership? In this episode, Bryan Law, CMO of SentinelOne, joins Kelly to share his thoughts on just that, while highlighting his journey to the C-suite. Together, they dive into the art and science of impactful marketing, from how testing, emotional resonance, and brand distinction drive results, to the power of storytelling in both learning and brand building. Plus, tune in for advice on how to balance speed with thoughtfulness and other advice for aspiring CMOs.