In this episode Ricot Aladin sits down with Eric Piela, Senior Global Brand Manager, to explore the intersection of marketing, branding, and mentorship. Eric shares two decades of lessons learned—from the days of direct marketing tweaks to building authentic emotional connections between brands and people in the social media era.
Listeners will hear Eric’s blueprint for brand success: know your North Star, embrace who you are (and who you’re not), and be consistent in showing up for your audience. For small businesses, he offers practical strategies to stand out in crowded markets, and for young professionals, he delivers a heartfelt guide to building a personal brand rooted in purpose, personality, and proficiency—without feeling fake.
The conversation also dives deep into the power of mentorship. Eric reveals how mentors shaped his career and why creating a “personal board of directors” can accelerate growth. With warmth, humor (yes, there’s a “10% Ryan Seacrest, 90% Phil Dunphy” story), and actionable insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to launch their career with authenticity and impact.
If you want to craft your brand, find your voice, and connect with mentors who believe in you, this episode delivers both the playbook and the pep talk.