Explore every episode of the podcast Coffee N° 5 with Lara Schmoisman

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In this episode of Coffee N°5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Noah Rosenblatt. Recorded live at Cosmoprof (with a huge thank you to the Cosmoprof team for hosting us!), Noah shares deep insights into the rapid evolution of the beauty industry, digital transformation, and modern brand curation. From building sustainable brand longevity in an oversaturated market to navigating fragrance trends and wellness integration, this conversation uncovers what it takes to expand distribution channels while prioritizing speed, service, and consumer personalization.

• Key Topics Covered:

Strategies for building brand longevity and disrupting traditional market channels.

The development of digital platforms and modern e-commerce experiences.

Evolving consumer behavior, personalization, and shifting retail expectations.

Market expansion tactics for brands aiming to establish a strong presence in the US.

Emerging trends in fragrance innovation and the convergence of beauty and wellness.

• About Noah Rosenblatt:

Noah Rosenblatt is a prominent leader and executive in the beauty and retail space, recognized for his strategic vision in brand curation, digital transformation, and market expansion. With extensive experience in scaling retail platforms and developing strategic brand partnerships, Noah plays a pivotal role in identifying next-generation beauty trends. He is passionate about helping innovative skincare, fragrance, and wellness brands navigate retail channels and connect authentically with the modern consumer.

🔗 Stay Connected with The DARL: 📸 Instagram: / thedarlagency

👍 Facebook: / thedarlagency

💼 LinkedIn: / about

🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/thedarlagency 🌐 Website: https://thedarl.com/

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!#MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #NoahRosenblatt #BeautyIndustry #Cosmoprof #DigitalTransformation #BrandStrategy #WellnessTrends #TheDARL #BusinessGrowth

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In this episode of Coffee N°5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Linda Dang, founder of Sakoshi. Linda shares her expert insights on the evolution of Asian beauty in North America, moving far beyond traditional K-beauty trends. From navigating cultural localization and brand readiness to building seamless omnichannel retail experiences, this conversation uncovers what it takes for emerging skincare and beauty brands to successfully scale, differentiate themselves, and conquer competitive new markets.

• Key Topics Covered:

The evolution of Asian beauty in North America and expanding beyond K-beauty.

Strategies for market entry readiness, brand onboarding, and retail expansion.

Balancing authentic brand heritage with localized marketing and packaging.

The power of customer education, storytelling, and skin analysis in-store.

Building omnichannel retail strategies that drive engagement and retention.

Key criteria for product assortment, curation, and clean beauty innovation.

• About Linda Dang:

Linda Dang is the visionary founder behind Sakoshi, a premier platform and retail destination dedicated to bringing the best of Asian beauty to North America. With a strong background in retail operations, brand curation, and market expansion, Linda specializes in bridging the gap between Asian beauty innovators and Western consumers. She is passionate about authentic storytelling, omnichannel growth, and helping ethical brands scale successfully.

🔗 Stay Connected with The DARL: 📸 Instagram: / thedarlagency

👍 Facebook: / thedarlagency

💼 LinkedIn: / about

🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/thedarlagency 🌐 Website: https://thedarl.com/

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!#MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #LindaDang #AsianBeauty #KBeauty #RetailStrategy #BrandBuilding #MarketExpansion #TheDARL #BusinessGrowth

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In this episode of Coffee N°5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Oliver Garfield, former COO and Co-President of Cos Bar. Oliver dives into the remarkable history of Cos Bar, founded in Aspen by his mother, Lily Garfield and how it evolved into a premier luxury beauty retailer. From building scalable infrastructure and navigating early-stage growth to mastering retail education, brand positioning, and digital trends, this conversation uncovers what it takes to scale a luxury beauty brand while maintaining customer trust and capital efficiency. 

• Key Topics Covered:

The founding story of Cos Bar in Aspen and its evolution into luxury beauty retail.

Lessons in scaling early-stage businesses, managing cash flow, and building operational infrastructure.

The role of retail partnerships, sales education, and staff training in driving brand success.

How beauty retail is shifting across D2C, social media, wholesale, and prestige vs. mass-market lines.

Key considerations for early-stage investing, brand positioning, and working with beauty incubators.

• About Oliver Garfield:

Oliver Garfield is an experienced retail executive and investor who served as Chief Operating Officer and Co-President of Cos Bar, the original luxury multi-brand beauty retailer founded by his mother, Lily Garfield. Growing up alongside the family business, Oliver played an instrumental role in modernizing Cos Bar’s operations, expanding its retail footprint, and building scalable processes across physical and digital channels. Today, he brings deep expertise in luxury retail strategy, capital management, and early-stage brand development. 

🔗 Stay Connected with The DARL:

📸 Instagram: / thedarlagency

👍 Facebook: / thedarlagency

💼 LinkedIn: / about

🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/thedarlagency

🌐 Website: https://thedarl.com/

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!#MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #OliverGarfield #CosBar #BeautyRetail #BrandStrategy #LuxuryBeauty #TheDARL #BusinessGrowth

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In this episode of Coffee N°5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Mara, a powerhouse sales leader and healthcare entrepreneur. Mara shares her inspiring journey from a challenging start in law to building a multi-million dollar career in healthcare sales and leadership. From mastering the art of the pitch to understanding why resilience and rejection are essential stepping stones to success, this conversation uncovers what it truly takes to build, lead, and scale high-performing sales teams.

• Key Topics Covered:

Mara’s unconventional career transition from law to healthcare sales leadership.

The critical role of failure, resilience, and rejection in building long-term success.

Practical qualifying questions and sales strategies designed specifically for healthcare.

Core leadership qualities: why charisma, grit, and authenticity outperform traditional tactics.

How to identify, recruit, and mentor top-tier sales talent for high-growth environments.

The mindset shift required when transitioning from individual employee to visionary leader.

• About Mara:

Mara is an accomplished sales leader, executive, and healthcare entrepreneur known for driving exceptional revenue growth and building high-impact teams. With a career defined by grit, adaptability, and strategic execution, she has scaled businesses across the health and wellness sectors. Passionate about talent development and authentic leadership, Mara empowers teams to embrace hard work, overcome rejection, and turn sales strategies into sustainable business growth.

🔗 Stay Connected with The DARL: 📸 Instagram: / thedarlagency

👍 Facebook: / thedarlagency

💼 LinkedIn: / about

🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/thedarlagency 🌐 Website: https://thedarl.com/

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!#MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #SalesLeadership #HealthcareEntrepreneur #BusinessGrowth #LeadershipSkills #SalesStrategy #TheDARL #CareerAdvice

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 In this episode of Coffee N°5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Jadon Wyant, CEO of Sorcea. Jadon dives into how data-driven insights are transforming the beauty and wellness industries, sharing how his platform cuts through the noise of an oversaturated market. From collecting authentic consumer experiences to helping brands refine their marketing strategies, this conversation uncovers the methodology behind turning raw data into powerful social proof for skincare, cosmetics, and beyond.

• Key Topics Covered:
How data-driven insights are revolutionizing market intelligence in beauty and wellness.
The origins of Sorcea and solving the consumer problem of product overwhelm.
Methodologies for collecting, verifying, and ensuring authentic user data across regions.
How emerging brands leverage consumer data to improve SEO, copy, and targeted marketing.
Targeting Gen Z, expanding into color cosmetics, and scaling a tech-driven platform.

• About Jadon Wyant:
Jadon Wyant is the CEO and founder of Sorcea, a data platform transforming how beauty and wellness brands understand consumer behavior. Combining a background in accounting and data analytics with a passion for innovation, Jadon builds tools that deliver verified consumer insights and social proof. Under his leadership, Sorcea helps brands optimize their product strategies, build trust, and drive sustainable growth across dynamic demographics. 

🔗 Stay Connected with The DARL:

📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedarlagency 

👍Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedarlagency 

💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedarl/ 

🐦X (Twitter): https://x.com/thedarlagency

 🌐Website: https://thedarl.com/

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!  #CoffeeN5Podcast #TheDARL #JadonWyant #Sorcea #BeautyIndustry #ConsumerInsights #DataAnalytics #BeautyTech #MarketingStrategy #BusinessGrowth #GenZMarketing #SkincareTrends #BrandStrategy 

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In this episode of Coffee N°5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Quinten Farmer, founder of Portola and creator of Tolan. Quinten dives into his journey of developing an innovative personal AI that acts as a supportive companion to help users navigate overwhelm and life's everyday challenges. From exploring ethical considerations and data privacy to designing a non-human, lovable alien character, this conversation uncovers what it takes to build AI platforms that prioritize emotional safety, user connection, and responsible future growth. 

• Key Topics Covered:

The vision behind Tolan and the development of a supportive personal AI. 

Why Portola chose an alien guide persona to make digital interactions feel lovable and safe. 

Navigating ethics, user privacy, and misinformation in AI-driven conversations. 

AI’s emerging role in supporting mental health and helping users manage daily stress. 

Understanding business models and monetization strategies for consumer AI platforms.

Future technology trends and the evolving relationship between consumers and AI.

• About Quinten Farmer:

Quinten Farmer is a seasoned tech entrepreneur and the co-founder and CEO of Portola, the company behind Tolan. With a strong background spanning finance, SaaS, and emerging tech, Quinten is now focused on blending cutting-edge artificial intelligence with creative storytelling. Through Tolan, he is exploring how character-driven AI can serve as a grounded, privacy-conscious reflection tool that enhances everyday human experiences. 

🔗 Stay Connected with The DARL:

📸Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedarlagency 

👍Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedarlagency 

💼LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedarl/ 

🐦X (Twitter): https://x.com/thedarlagency

 🌐Website: https://thedarl.com/

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!#MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #QuintenFarmer #TolanAI #AITechnology #FutureOfAI #BrandStrategy #DigitalInnovation #TheDARL #BusinessGrowth

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In this episode of Coffee N°5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Jeannie Jarnot, founder of Beauty Heroes. Jeannie dives into her transition from spa management to pioneering a clean, sustainable, and highly effective beauty marketplace. From establishing strict ingredient standards to navigating a decade of evolving consumer behavior, this conversation uncovers what it truly takes for brands to succeed in highly curated environments while maintaining authenticity, consistency, and a consumer-first approach.

• Key Topics Covered:

Jeannie Jarnot’s background in spa management and how it shaped her strict brand standards.

The reality of ingredient curation and why Beauty Heroes strictly bans components like phenoxyethanol.

How consumer behavior and awareness around clean beauty have evolved over the last 12 years.

Proven strategies for independent brands to pitch, survive, and thrive in curated marketplaces.

The role of authentic content, long-term brand engagement, and consistency in driving growth.

Integrating holistic wellness into the traditional beauty space and anticipating future industry trends.

• About Jeannie Jarnot:

Jeannie Jarnot is the founder of Beauty Heroes, a trailblazing marketplace and discovery service dedicated to clean, healthy, and sustainable skincare. With a rich background as a spa director, Jeannie revolutionized the beauty shopping experience by enforcing unparalleled ingredient standards and championing a "less is more" philosophy. She is a recognized leader in the wellness industry, passionate about helping consumers make conscious choices and helping ethical brands scale with integrity.

🔗 Stay Connected with The DARL: 📸 Instagram: / thedarlagency

👍 Facebook: / thedarlagency

💼 LinkedIn: / about

🐦 X (Twitter): https://x.com/thedarlagency 🌐 Website: https://thedarl.com/

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!#MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #JeannieJarnot #CleanBeauty #BeautyHeroes #SkincareMarketing #BrandStrategy #SustainableBeauty #TheDARL #BusinessGrowth

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How do you climb from an entry-level secretarial role to the executive suites of the beauty world?

In this episode of Coffee N°5, we sit down with beauty industry powerhouse Elana S Drell Szyfer. Elana shares her remarkable journey, offering a masterclass in career development, leadership, and the shifting dynamics of the beauty and wellness landscape.

Whether you are climbing the corporate ladder in a global powerhouse or navigating the agile waters of a startup, Elana’s insights on humility, continuous learning, and adaptability are essential listening. We dive deep into why modern careers are no longer a straight line, how the convergence of health and beauty is changing the market, and the irreplaceable role of mentorship in shaping the leaders of tomorrow.

Key Takeaways From This Episode:

• Start Somewhere: Why taking an entry-level role (even as a secretary) can give you the foundational tools to build an empire.
• The Corporate vs. Startup Shift: Critical leadership lessons learned when transitioning from massive global corporations to agile, small brands.
• The New Career Landscape: Understanding the evolution of career stages and the exciting convergence of beauty, health, and wellness.
• The Power of Mentorship: Why asking questions and actively supporting future leaders is the ultimate key to industry growth.

Connect with Elana:

• LinkedIn: Connect with Elana S Drell Szyfer

Resources Mentioned in This Episode:

• CEW (Cosmetic Executive Women): cewbeauty.org (Note: double-check link spelling for CEW)
• Industry Insights: Women's Wear Daily (WWD)

• "Start somewhere, even as a secretary."
• "Be humble and entrepreneurial."
• "Ask questions, build your own path."

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In this episode of Coffee N°5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Maria Warrington, CEO of Beacon Brands. Maria dives into the evolving world of sexual wellness, sharing what it really takes to build, market, and scale a brand in one of the most restricted yet fastest-growing industries. From breaking taboos to redefining pleasure as part of overall wellness, this conversation uncovers the strategies behind connecting with modern consumers while navigating cultural, political, and digital advertising barriers.

• Key Topics Covered:
The challenges of marketing sexual wellness products in highly regulated digital environments.
How to break taboos and build authentic, stigma-free brand conversations.
The role of community and medical professionals in building trust and credibility.
Expanding beyond pleasure into wellness, menopause, and holistic women’s health.
How brands like Plus One innovate to stay relevant across major retailers like Target, Walmart, and Amazon.
The shift in consumer openness and how it’s reshaping the future of the industry.

• About Maria Warrington:
Maria Warrington is the CEO of Beacon Brands, a leader in the sexual wellness and consumer goods space. She oversees a portfolio of brands including Plus One, focused on empowering women through accessible, innovative, and stigma-free products. With extensive experience in brand building, retail expansion, and navigating complex marketing restrictions, Maria is at the forefront of redefining how wellness and pleasure are positioned in today’s market.

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Instagram: thedarlagency
Facebook: thedarlagency
LinkedIn: about
X: https://x.com/thedarlagency
Website: https://thedarl.com/

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!

#MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #MariaWarrington #SexualWellness #WomenHealth #BrandStrategy #DigitalMarketing #TheDARL #BusinessGrowth

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In Episode of Coffee N5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Ilya Seglin, Managing Director at Raymond James. Ilya dives deep into the world of finance, explaining what it takes for a brand to raise growth capital or achieve a successful strategic exit. They discuss the reality of "alphabet soup" fundraising (Series A, B, and beyond) and why having a "forever brand" is the ultimate goal for major acquirers.
• Key Topics Covered:
The difference between Strategic Acquirers and Private Equity (The "Marriage vs. Divorce" analogy).
When is the right time to stop self-funding and look for outside investors?
The importance of unit economics, repeat purchase behavior, and product differentiation.
Why a Sephora or Ulta launch could either make or destroy your business.
The "Halo Effect": How digital data informs retail success.
3 Things a brand should NEVER do when trying to scale.
• About Ilya Seglin: Ilya Seglin is a seasoned investment banker specializing in the consumer and beauty sectors. With years of experience at firms like Raymond James, he has been a key player in some of the most significant deals in the industry. He helps founders navigate the complexities of raising capital, finding the right strategic partners, and preparing their businesses for long-term sustainability and eventual sale.

Stay Connected with The DARL:  Instagram: thedarlagency  Facebook: thedarlagency  LinkedIn: about  X: https://x.com/thedarlagency  Website: https://thedarl.com/
Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!
#MarketingCareer #CoffeeN5Podcast #IlyaSeglin #BrandExit #InvestmentBanking #BeautyIndustry #StartupFunding #DigitalMarketingAgency #TheDARL #BusinessGrowth

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The Future of Wellness: AI and Luxury Experiences with Tom | Coffee N5

In Episode 248 of Coffee N5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Tom, a leading consultant in the luxury skincare and wellness space. They explore a often overlooked but highly lucrative channel: Hospitality. Tom shares insights on how brands can move beyond traditional retail and tap into luxury hotels and resorts, the reality of "career consultants," and how AI is set to revolutionize the guest experience through advanced diagnostics.

• Key Topics Covered:
  • Execution vs. Theory: Why brands need consultants who are ready to "roll up their sleeves" and execute beyond plan A.
  • The Hospitality Opportunity: How luxury skincare and wellness brands can diversify their revenue through in-room amenities and hotel boutiques.
  • Networking for Growth: Why surrounding yourself with people who contribute to your growth is essential for long-term success.
  • The New Rules of Luxury: Debunking myths about discounting, Black Friday, and why premium brands must adapt to consumer convenience (including the Amazon factor).
  • AI and the Future of Wellness: How AI is moving from a buzzword to a diagnostic tool that will power personalized health and longevity retreats.

About Tom: Tom is a seasoned consultant specializing in luxury skincare, wellness, and high-end hospitality. With years of experience helping brands navigate the transition from retail to experiential models, he is an expert at building B2B partnerships with some of the world’s most prestigious hotel groups. He is known for his practical, execution-focused approach to brand building and his deep understanding of the evolving luxury consumer.

Follow tom:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tom-macpherson-le-maire-32600948/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tom_mlm_parisien/

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📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedarlagency 

👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedarlagency 

💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thedarl 

🐦 X: https://x.com/thedarlagency 🌐 Website: https://thedarl.com/

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Beyond the Business Card: Strategic Networking with Mike Ryan | Coffee N5

In Episode 247 of Coffee N5, Lara Schmoisman chats with Mike Ryan, a true master of professional relationships and a veteran of the PR and marketing industry. In this episode, they dive deep into the world of professional relationship building, the critical importance of "showing up," and how Mike has successfully navigated the digital revolution from the days of hand-typed press releases to creating premium, high-tech unboxing experiences for global brands.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Philosophy of Showing Up: Why being a "social butterfly" is about building genuine human relationships, not just filling a to-do list.
• Networking vs. Strategic Partnering: How to move beyond the traditional "booth" mentality to become a respected authority and a face people recognize at every event.
• The Evolution of the Industry: A fascinating look at the transition from 1980s manual press distribution to the modern era of digital logistics and fulfillment.
• The Art of the Unboxing Experience: Why "white glove" service and customized influencer send-outs are the new standard for brands in the digital age.
• Reputation as Your Only Contract: Mike explains why building a "circle of trust" and maintaining a flawless reputation is more powerful than any legal document.

About Mike Ryan:

Mike Ryan is a seasoned expert in networking and business development with nearly four decades of experience in the communications and fulfillment space. Known as a "Chief Networking Officer" in spirit, Mike has built his career on the principles of loyalty, adaptability, and the power of a handshake. He is a prominent figure in the beauty, fashion, and wellness circles and is the host of the podcast Minutes with Mike.

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📸 Instagram:   / thedarlagency   

👍 Facebook:   / thedarlagency  

💼 LinkedIn:   / about  

🐦 X: https://x.com/thedarlagency

🌐 Website: https://thedarl.com/

🔔 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more expert advice on marketing, branding, and career growth!

#NetworkingSuccess #CoffeeN5Podcast #MikeRyan #BusinessStrategy #UnboxingExperience #BusinessEvolution #LaraSchmoisman #TheDarlAgency #PersonalBranding #ProfessionalGrowth

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In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Sara Jensen—serial entrepreneur, author, and Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Hugh & Grace—to explore hormone health, preventative wellness, chemical exposure, and the rise of community-driven commerce.

We'll talk about:

• How 14 years of infertility reshaped Sara’s understanding of hormone health
• The hidden impact of hormone-disrupting chemicals in skincare, haircare, and home products
• Why “clean beauty” lacks a clear definition—and what real preventative wellness requires
• The power of simplifying routines to reduce overwhelm and drive compliance
• Why detoxification should be gentle, daily, and sustainable

For more information, visit Sara's LinkedIn and Instagram

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Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media:

Instagram: @laraschmoisman

Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman

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In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Dr. Brent Ridge—physician, longevity researcher, co-founder of Beekman 1802, and co-author of Goat Wisdom—to explore the science of longevity, microbiome innovation, and why kindness is a powerful long-term business strategy.

We'll talk about:

• Why extreme longevity is influenced more by optimism and social connection than by genetics
• How the “anti-aging” narrative became a fear-based marketing construct
• Why longevity starts at birth—not at 40
• The science behind goat milk, skin pH, and microbiome balance
• How exosomes and oligosaccharides support skin ecosystem health

For more information, visit Brent's LinkedIn and Instagram

Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter.

Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media:

Instagram: @laraschmoisman

Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman

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In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Bora Mutluoglu, co-founder of Reacher and Y Combinator alum, to break down the reality of social commerce. Using TikTok Shop as a case study, they explore automation, affiliate strategy, creator relationships, and how AI-generated content is reshaping sustainable growth.

We'll talk about:

• Why the “easy sales” narrative around TikTok Shop is misleading
• How social commerce is maturing into a performance-driven ecosystem
• Why automation tools don’t replace relationship building with creators
• The myth of follower count and what actually drives visibility today
• When large influencers make sense—and when they don’t

For more information, visit Bora's LinkedIn and Instagram

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Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media:

Instagram: @laraschmoisman

Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman

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In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Amina AlTai—holistic business and career coach, proud immigrant, chronic illness advocate, host of the Amina Change Your Life podcast, and author of The Ambition Trap: How to Stop Chasing and Start Living—to explore the psychology of ambition. From burnout and hustle culture to core wounds, systemic pressure, and sustainable growth, this conversation reframes ambition as alignment, awareness, and purpose—not endless striving.

We'll talk about:

• Why PR in 2026 is an ecosystem—not a standalone function
• The myth of “just PR” and why siloed teams break brand momentum
• Influencer ROI realities: affiliates, attribution, and what actually converts
• Launch events: when they work, when they don’t, and why most fail
• PR + AI: authority, citations, and why human voice still matters

For more information, visit Amina's LinkedIn and Instagram

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Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media:

Instagram: @laraschmoisman

Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman

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In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Jennifer Bickerton and Lauren Kahn, Co-Founders of Intersection PR, to demystify what PR really looks like in 2026. From AI and media fragmentation to influencer economics, launches, and integrated ecosystems, this conversation breaks down how brands actually build relevance, authority, and momentum today.

We'll talk about:

• Why PR in 2026 is an ecosystem—not a standalone function
• The myth of “just PR” and why siloed teams break brand momentum
• Influencer ROI realities: affiliates, attribution, and what actually converts
• Launch events: when they work, when they don’t, and why most fail
• PR + AI: authority, citations, and why human voice still matters

For more information, visit Lauren's LinkedIn and Instagram and Jennifer's LinkedIn and Instagram

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Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media:

Instagram: @laraschmoisman

Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman

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In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara sits down with Laura Meyer—Founder & CEO of Envision Horizons and former Amazon insider—to break down why Amazon isn’t “just another sales channel.” They unpack what actually drives revenue on Amazon, the biggest distractions brands fall for, and how to build a profitable, defensible Amazon strategy without burning cash or losing brand identity.

We'll talk about:

• Why Amazon is not “just another channel,” but a full ecosystem with its own laws.
• The biggest distraction brands waste money on (hint: it’s the storefront).
• The truth about Amazon PPC, DSP, and knowing your point of diminishing returns.
• How AI can help Amazon creative—and where it risks killing brand identity.
• What causes suspensions, red flags, and “Amazon horror stories”—and how to manage them.
  
  For more information, visit Laura Meyer's LinkedIn and Instagram.
  
  Subscribe to Lara’s newsletter.
  
  Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media:
  
  Instagram: @laraschmoisman
  
  Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman
  
  

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In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara sits down with Kat Garcia, Founder of Ground AI, to dismantle the myth of the linear career. They go from Hollywood sets to building revenue engines, getting real about why the traditional funnel is broken and how to use data to build actual momentum—not just noise.

We'll talk about:

• Why the "straight line" career is a myth—and a trap.
• The reality of the "Broken Funnel" and why you can't track ROI the old way.
• Why being an early adopter (like Kat on YouTube in 2006) pays off.
• The difference between AI hype and AI that actually drives revenue.
• Why retention beats ROAS every single time.
• Knowing when your brand is actually ready for automation (hint: you need a baseline).

For more information, visit Kat Garcia's LinkedIn and Instagram.

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Also, follow our host Lara Schmoisman on social media:

Instagram: @laraschmoisman

Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman

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In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara sits down with Allison McNamara, Founder and CEO of MARA Beauty, to explore the non-linear path from media to building a science-backed skincare brand. A grounded conversation about discipline, focus, and earning clarity over time.

We'll talk about:

• Why non-linear careers often lead to stronger founders
• Building a science-backed brand without shortcuts
• How discipline shapes product and growth decisions
• The reality behind scaling and retail expansion
• Why focus matters more than speed
• When brand clarity finally clicks
  
  

For more information, visit Allison McNamara's LinkedIn and Instagram.

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Instagram: @laraschmoisman

Facebook: @LaraSchmoisman

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In this Coffee Nº5 episode, Lara Schmoisman sits down with Aaron Alpeter, founder of Izba, Sourcify, and Slotted, to break down the operational reality of scaling product-based businesses. From cash flow and supplier negotiations to packaging costs and operational flexibility, this episode explains why supply chain is a core growth driver—not a backend detail.

We'll talk about:

• What supply chain really is—and why it directly impacts your ability to scale
• Why cash flow and unit economics matter more than fundraising
• How to negotiate with suppliers and use payment terms as a growth lever
• The hidden costs of packaging, shipping, and storage
• Why flexibility and strong relationships matter more than optimization
  
  

For more information, visit Aaron Alpeter's LinkedIn and Instagram.

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Laurel Mintz, Founder & GP of Fabric VC and CEO of Elevate My Brand, joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee Nº5 to demystify venture capital for founders. From bootstrapping vs. raising money and what VCs really look for in pitch decks, to the truth about AI hype and why communication trumps clever branding—this episode breaks down how real funding decisions are made in today’s market.

We'll talk about:

• Why most founders say they’ll bootstrap… until they realize you can’t scale without marketing—or money.
• What VCs see in thousands of pitch decks — and why short, simple decks win.
• Why founders must know their numbers — and why clever storytelling can’t replace financial clarity.
• The truth about the AI gold rush — most startups don’t actually have data or defensible AI.
• Why communication quality often determines whether she’ll write a check more than branding does.

For more information, visit Laurel Mintz's LinkedIn and Instagram.

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In the final Coffee Nº5 episode of the year, Lara Schmoisman breaks down the marketing ecosystem of 2026—an environment defined by AI clarity, human-led storytelling, micro-experts, privacy-first data practices, and integrated teams. This episode explains what it truly takes to operate, grow, and connect in a world where everything is interconnected.

We'll talk about:

• The 2026 ecosystem: why everything in marketing is now interconnected—and why working in silos will break your growth.
• Generative Engine Optimization (GEO): clarity as the new currency for AI.
• AI agents as shoppers: what it means when software researches, compares, and negotiates for consumers.
• Responsible AI: why governance, rules, and human oversight will define how brands use technology.
• Content in 2026: real storytelling, crafted value, SEO-backed captions, and the end of shallow posting.
• The rise of micro-experts: why niche credibility beats mass follower counts.
• Privacy & first-party data: what owning your customer information really means.

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In this solo episode of Coffee Nº5, Lara Schmoisman cuts through the noise around SEO and breaks down what actually matters: technical performance, quality backlinks, and audience-driven keywords. She explains how SEO fuels organic growth, why structure matters more than shortcuts, and how brands can build long-term momentum in a world shaped by AI. A clear, strategic guide for marketers who want results—not gimmicks.

We'll talk about:

• Why your website—not social media—is still the core of your digital ecosystem.
• The three parts of SEO: technical performance, backlinks, and keywords.
• The truth about technical SEO: structure, performance, pages, and the tech stack that supports conversions.
• Traffic vs. conversions: why most brands confuse them—and lose momentum.
• How AI has changed backlink strategy.

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Lara Schmoisman shares why your website is the true heart of your business—and why ignoring its performance can cost you growth, visibility, and conversions. From SEO and site speed to tech stacks and maintenance, this Coffee Nº5 episode breaks down how your site connects every part of your marketing strategy, from paid media to AI readiness.

We'll talk about:

• Your website is your brand’s heart—every transaction and touchpoint starts there.
• How a slow or poorly optimized website kills your paid ads, organic reach, and SEO.
• The hidden costs of “plugin overload”—and how to streamline for speed and stability.
• The myth of agency pricing: how the right team actually saves you money by doing it right the first time.
• The silent mistake: brands investing thousands in ads but zero in SEO—renting attention instead of owning it.

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Lara Schmoisman breaks down why blogging is still one of the most powerful tools in digital marketing—and what happens when brands stop. From keyword strategy to AI-ready content, Lara reveals how organic traffic, SEO, and conversions are directly tied to consistent, strategic content creation.

We'll talk about:

• What really happens when brands stop blogging: organic traffic drops, and sales follow.
• The 3 keyword types every brand needs: DNA, competitive, and trending.
• Why long-tail keywords are now the most strategic weapon in SEO and AI visibility.
• How to structure content so it ranks on Google and is readable by AI tools.
• The difference between filling a blog and creating content that solves real problems.
• The silent mistake: brands investing thousands in ads but zero in SEO—renting attention instead of owning it.
• Why chasing “viral tactics” without data leads to penalties, lost rankings, and zero scalability.
• What it means to make your website AI-ready—and why not doing it now is a liability.
  
  

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Lara Schmoisman breaks down her IEMA system on Coffee Nº5, showing how integrated marketing—content that is Informative, Entertaining, Memorable, and Actionable—drives real growth. From SEO and AI to storytelling and strategy, Lara shares practical insights to make your content work harder and smarter.

We'll talk about:

• Why dividing branding and growth is a mistake—and the power of integrated marketing
• The IEMA system: Informative, Entertaining, Memorable, Actionable
• How to make every piece of content work smarter, not just fill a feed
• Why SEO and AI-readiness are table stakes in today’s marketing ecosystem
• How to measure content effectively and avoid “doing things just to do them”

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Joanne Murphy, Senior Conference Producer at Kisaco Research, joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee Nº5 to pull back the curtain on Beauty Connect LA—one of the industry’s most strategic gatherings for founders, investors, and innovators. From retail readiness and AI-powered insights to the evolution of “clinical credibility,” Joanne breaks down what’s really shaping the beauty ecosystem in 2025 and how connection drives every deal.

We'll talk about:

• How Beauty Connect LA intentionally brings together founders, investors, retailers, and creators to drive real growth—not just visibility
• Why AI and e-commerce are reshaping beauty’s playbook, from distribution to data
• The “Retail Ready” mindset: what brands must have in place before pitching to Sephora, Ulta, or Target
• How today’s consumer demands efficacy, education, and evidence—and what that means for product storytelling
• Why sponsors and tech partners need to teach, not just sell—and how connection fuels collaboration
• The rise of social commerce and how founders are becoming their own media channels
• Behind the scenes of Beauty Connect’s one-on-one meetings and how the right conversation can lead to real partnerships

Visit the Beauty Connect website and register for your pass:

https://www.kisacoresearch.com/events/beauty-connect-la-2025

Follow them on Instagram and LinkedIn for the latest event updates, reports, and more.

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Lalla Asmaa Alaoui, architect, luxury designer, and founder of AllMyAI, joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee Nº5 to talk about the next frontier of AI—where emotional intelligence meets innovation. From building HorseHub, the world’s first AI-driven luxury equestrian brand, to launching a multi-agent platform that blends creativity and strategy, Lalla shares how she’s redefining collaboration between humans and machines.

We'll talk about:

• The story behind AllMyAI—a multi-agent platform where AI collaborates with humans, not replaces them
• How Lalla co-created HorseHub, the world’s first luxury equestrian brand built entirely with AI
• The truth about SEO in the age of ChatGPT and Gemini—and why “searchable by AI” is the new frontier
• Why emotional intelligence is the missing link in AI-driven creativity
• How to structure content for Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) and get found by AI tools
• Why understanding your brand DNA is the foundation of any digital strategy
• How creative agencies can leverage AI without losing the human touch
• Lalla’s take on competition, data, and what it means to “stay ahead before they catch you”

For more information, visit Lalla Asmaa Alaoui's LinkedIn.

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Hugh Forrest, transformative leader of SXSW and founder of Gather and Grow, joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee Nº5 to share how a local music festival became a global hub for technology, culture, and creativity. From building community to reinventing live experiences, Hugh reveals what it takes to lead in the event industry—and what’s next for 2025 and beyond.

We'll talk about:

• How Hugh Forrest grew SXSW from a local music event into a global cultural powerhouse
• Lessons from 35 years of building one of the world’s most influential conferences and festivals
• Why scale can challenge community—and how SXSW kept connection at the center
• The evolution of events into experiences, and what today’s audiences really want
• How the “panel picker” gave SXSW its edge in fresh talent and diverse voices
• Hugh’s leadership philosophy: listening to community feedback, embracing pivots, and learning from failures
• Hugh’s new chapter with Gather and Grow—consulting for global organizations and teaching community-focused event strategy

For more information, visit Hugh Forrest's LinkedIn.

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Bet Hannon, web accessibility expert and founder of AccessiCart, joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee Nº5 to break down what accessibility really means for websites, marketing, and global compliance. From ADA lawsuits to the EU Accessibility Act, Bet shares why inclusive design is not just about avoiding legal risks—it’s about unlocking a $500 billion consumer market.

We'll talk about:

• How Bet pivoted from nonprofit management to leading a digital accessibility agency
• What “accessibility” really means across websites, email, and social media
• Why plugins and overlays don’t solve the problem—and can even make you a legal target
• The truth about color contrast, fonts, and design choices that impact usability
• What the EU Accessibility Act means for global brands (and why US businesses need to care)
• How accessibility drives both compliance and conversion
• Why inclusive design is a competitive advantage, not a burden

For more information, visit Bet Hannon's LinkedIn.

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Courtney Claghorn, co-founder of SUGARED + BRONZED, joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee Nº5 to share how she bootstrapped a beauty service out of her apartment into a nationwide brand. From $1,000 in startup capital to 10 stores before raising funding, Courtney reveals the lessons of growth, customer loyalty, franchising, memberships, and creating a product line—all while keeping customer service at the core.

We'll talk about:

• How Courtney turned $1,000 in savings into Sugared + Bronzed
• The leap from apartment spray tans to opening a first brick-and-mortar in Santa Monica
• Bootstrapping growth for 9 years before raising outside capital
• Building a team you can actually trust—and learning when to take back control
• Creating a product line without losing focus on services
• Customer service as the foundation of brand loyalty
• Why raising capital with the right partners changed everything

For more information, visit Courtney Claghorn's LinkedIn.

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Alec Batis, beauty industry veteran and founder of Sweet Chemistry, joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee Nº5 to unpack the pursuit of eternal beauty. From organ regeneration science to peptide innovation, he shares how true beauty goes beyond flawless skin—blending performance-driven skincare with wellness, meaning, and social impact.

We'll talk about:

• The personal story that drove Alec to chase beauty through science
• Lessons from leading marketing at Victoria’s Secret Beauty and NARS in the supermodel era
• Why “juice without fiber” became his metaphor for a shallow beauty industry
• The medical-grade peptide technology behind Sweet Chemistry—and why it’s a game-changer
• Why functional ingredient levels matter more than “story” ingredients
• How wellness, art, and social impact fit into the future of beauty
• The movement toward “whole beauty”—beyond what’s skin-deep

Find Sweet Chemistry’s Social Responsibility Efforts on their website: https://sweetchemistry.com/pages/commitments

For more information, visit Alec Batis' LinkedIn.

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Mark Menning, PhD, pharmaceutical scientist and founder of MARK Los Angeles, joins Lara Schmoisman to unpack how flavonoids, clinical trials, and advanced delivery systems are reshaping skincare. From FDA-approved antivirals to cold sore serums and acne care, he shares how science—not hype—is driving the next era of beauty and wellness.

We'll talk about:

• Why drug delivery—not just ingredients—defines whether skincare works
• How a career in pharma led to groundbreaking skincare innovations
• The role of flavonoids as powerful anti-inflammatory and antiviral actives
• Lessons from running full clinical trials in an industry that avoids them
• Why consumer feedback forced MARK Los Angeles to reposition products—and why it worked
• How inflammation became the “enemy” driving premature aging and poor skin health
• What the future of beauty looks like when science—not marketing—sets the standard

For more information, visit Mark Menning's LinkedIn.

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Susanah Zeffiro, Brand Partnerships Lead at BeReal and former Spotify and Epic Games exec, joins Lara Schmoisman to explore the future of social media, authenticity vs. AI, and how brands can win with Gen Z by leaning into raw, unfiltered connection instead of glossy campaigns.

We'll talk about:

• Why Gen Z is rejecting filtered perfection and demanding authenticity
• The throughline of Susanah’s career: spotting what’s next before it hits the mainstream
• Lessons from Spotify, gaming, and now BeReal on building brand partnerships that actually work
• How raw, iPhone-shot creatives are outperforming polished campaigns
• The rise of “monocultural moments” and how real-time engagement reshapes brand storytelling
• Why BeReal isn’t chasing algorithms—and why that matters for users and brands
• How social platforms are shifting from entertainment to search, and where BeReal fits in
• The future of influencer marketing in an era of authenticity and unfiltered connection

For more information, visit Susanah Zeffiro's LinkedIn.

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Steven J. Edelstein, VP of Growth & Partnerships at MyFBAPrep, joins Lara Schmoisman to unpack why most brands fail before they scale—covering pricing strategy, supply chain traps, trade show mistakes, and the future of beauty innovation through personalization and smarter storytelling.

We'll talk about:

• Why pricing strategy must start with your audience—not just your ingredients
• The real margin rules that make or break a brand
• The hidden costs in supply chain and trade shows that drain young businesses
• How copying formulas and white-labeling kills true innovation
• Why personalization and lifestyle-driven products will define the next decade
• The shift from discounts and one-off sales to loyalty and continuity programs
• How to create emotional connection that keeps customers coming back
• The future of beauty: smarter delivery systems, niche focus, and brands that actually solve problems

For more information, visit Steven J. Edelstein's LinkedIn.

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Henry Barton, Global Head of Network & Community at Duel Tech, joins Lara Schmoisman to reveal how the smartest fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands turn their most passionate customers into unstoppable advocates—and why community is your ultimate growth engine.

We'll talk about:

• Why your most loyal customers are your most powerful marketing channel—and how to activate them
• The difference between brand “fans” and true “advocates” (and why it matters)
• How to find and nurture your brand’s real community—not just followers
• The compounding power of advocacy-driven growth in fashion, beauty, and lifestyle brands
• Real examples of brands leveraging advocacy to outpace competitors without bigger ad budgets
• Why community building should be in the C-suite conversation—not just marketing’s to-do list
• The mindset shift from acquisition to amplification—and why it’s the future of brand growth

For more information, visit Henry Barton's LinkedIn.

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Ken Hughes, known as The King of Customer Experience, joins Lara Schmoisman to share why connection—not product—is the ultimate differentiator in today’s AI-driven world, and how brands can design loyalty that lasts.

We'll talk about:

• Why products and services are now commodities—and why connection is your only real differentiator
• The “goldfish moment” every brand should be creating (and how to scale it)
• How Taylor Swift built one of the most loyal fandoms on earth—and what brands can learn from her playbook
• The danger of “one-night-stand marketing” and the shift from transactional to relational thinking
• Why ROI isn’t enough—and how to build with “desire to invest” instead
• Real-life stories of brands going beyond expectations to create emotional loyalty
• The perfect balance of AI and human touch in customer experience

For more information, visit Ken Hughes' LinkedIn.

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Nader Naeymi-Rad, Founder and Publisher of Beauty Independent, joins Lara Schmoisman to unpack the evolution of the beauty industry—from the death of indie beauty to the rise of professional founders, and what it really takes to build a brand that lasts.

We'll talk about:

• Why the “indie beauty” label is outdated—and what founders need to focus on instead
• The harsh truth about brand exits, celebrity equity, and investor-backed hype
• How Nader accidentally launched a movement that changed the industry
• What really separates a brand from a collection of products
• Why founder stories matter—but only when they're earned
• How to know if you’re building something that lasts (or just playing dress-up)
• The professionalization of beauty entrepreneurship—and why “passion” is not a business plan

For more information, visit Nader Naeymi-Rad's LinkedIn.

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Daniel Scharff, Founder & CEO of Startup CPG and host of a top 0.5% global podcast, joins Lara Schmoisman to talk brand-building, retail truth bombs, and what it really takes to grow in the crowded CPG space.

We'll talk about:

• How Daniel scaled Startup CPG into the most trusted brand community in the industry.
• What most CPG founders get wrong when pitching to retailers.
• The surprising reason brand story is more important than ever (and how to actually tell it).
• Why “overnight success” is the biggest myth in consumer goods.
• The real-life challenges of launching a beverage brand—and hitting 3,000 doors in year one.
• Behind the mic: building a podcast that dominates the CPG space (and what guests really want).
• Lessons from 15 years in CPG—from corporate boardrooms to founder burnout and back.
• The one metric Daniel says every founder should track but most ignore.

For more information, visit Daniel Scharff' LinkedIn.

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Lara Schmoisman and Don Allen, CIO/CISO of Moda Operandi, discuss the evolution of e-commerce, the impact of AI on user experience and SEO, and strategic technology adoption for competitive advantage.

We'll talk about:

• The surprising truth about SEO today—and why organic reach is (almost) a myth.
• Why a "compelling website" is now just "table stakes" in e-commerce.
• The strategic shift: when to build bespoke tech and when to buy off-the-shelf solutions.
• How AI is revolutionizing product tagging and SEO for high-fashion platforms.
• The biggest challenge of migrating to new platforms—it's not the tech, it's the people.
• The key difference between physical and online stores: dynamic personalization.
• Moda Operandi's marketplace strategy: leveraging it for hard-to-store items and new designers.

For more information, visit Don Allen' LinkedIn.

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Lara Schmoisman and Mimi Banks of MB Social dive into real talk about social media strategy, content that converts, and the future of the creator economy—from beauty brands to medical experts.

We'll talk about:

• How Mimi helped turn nail art UGC into one of L'Oréal’s earliest creator strategies.
• The three types of creators you need to understand—and why the labels matter.
• Why good content alone isn’t enough without strategy and storytelling.
• The dangers of AI in influencer marketing—and how to use it responsibly.
• Why brand voice, targeting, and objectives still trump algorithm “hacks”.
• The big shift coming to Instagram SEO—and what that means for creators.

For more information, visit Mimi Banks' LinkedIn.

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Blair Enns joins Lara Schmoisman to unpack what actually works when experts sell their services. From value-based pricing to client alignment, this episode breaks down smart, integrity-driven growth.

We'll talk about:

• The mindset shift that helped Blair move from chasing clients to choosing them.
• What not to include in a proposal—and how to avoid giving strategy away too soon.
• When your sales process is actually shaping the entire client relationship.
• Why real authority isn’t loud—it’s clear.
• How value-based pricing changes everything.

For more information, visit Blair Enns' LinkedIn.

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Board leader and former CEO Chelsea Grayson joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee Nº5 to break down what actually drives business growth. From managing iconic brands to scaling through economic turbulence, this episode is packed with insights on strategy, governance, and real leadership.

We'll talk about:

• Why hiring too fast after one "good season" could tank your brand.
• The real cost of expanding your footprint—and how to avoid lease regret.
• What founders must understand about content creation in 2025.
• The influencer vs. content creator vs. brand ambassador debate—what actually works.
• Why celebrity brands flop (even with millions of followers).
• What a real board does—and why you need one sooner than you think.

For more information, visit Chelsea Grayson's LinkedIn.

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eCommerce connector and community builder Sara Pereda joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee Nº5 to unpack how Smarterships became a global force, what makes partnerships actually work, and how to scale with strategy, integrity, and connection.

We'll talk about:

• Why Sara built a global Slack community—and made it paid on purpose.
• The real difference between connecting and collecting contacts.
• How to tell if your partners are helping you grow—or slowing you down.
• The #1 rule of being a super-connector (and why it’s not about you).
• Cultural cues and community-building lessons from running events in 24+ cities.
• What founders and agencies really need from their tech partners right now.

For more information, visit Sara Pereda's LinkedIn.

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Beauty industry leader Liza Rapay joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee Nº5 to unpack the strategy behind Cosmoprof’s global success, how brands can actually win at trade shows, and why purpose-driven leadership always scales better.

We'll talk about:

• Why building a show like Cosmoprof takes strategy—not just sparkle.
• What most beauty brands get wrong about trade shows.
• The mindset shift every founder needs before exhibiting.
• What Beauty New York is—and why it’s being called the Fashion Week of Beauty.
• Why storytelling, not just samples, makes or breaks a brand’s success.
• The resilience of the beauty industry (even through tariffs and global change).

For more information, visit Liza Rapay's LinkedIn.

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Lara Schmoisman sits down with Elizabeth Robillard, eTail Portfolio Director, to talk retail strategy, evolving search trends, content that connects, and how to avoid falling for industry buzz. This episode of Coffee Nº 5 is packed with insight for retail marketers, brand leaders, and founders navigating the future of omnichannel commerce.

We'll talk about:

• Why AI fatigue is real—and how to shift the conversation.
• What consumers are actually searching for (and what they’re ignoring).
• Why SEO, social, and email shouldn’t live in silos.
• What makes a retail event valuable—and what doesn’t.
• Why your content strategy has to work harder than your booth.
• The power of research, not trend-chasing.
• How the best brands are adapting—without burning out their teams.

For more information, visit Elizabeth Robillard's LinkedIn.

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Communications strategist Jeanne Meyer joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee Nº 5 to talk brand voice, reputation management, and crisis comms—from her work at EMI Music to major brand turnarounds at Toys R Us and Unilever. Learn how to build brand trust, adapt messaging across platforms, and lead with clarity in a noisy, fast-moving media landscape.

We'll talk about:

• Why consistency across platforms is make-or-break for brand trust
• Crisis comms vs. PR: What’s the difference and why it matters
• How to build a “reputation bank” before you need it
• The problem with performative messaging in today’s cultural landscape
• Why strong brand pillars are more relevant than ever
• Communication isn’t just talking—it’s listening

For more information, visit Jeanne Meyer's LinkedIn.

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In the 200th episode of Coffee N° 5, Sampo Parkkinen, CEO of Revieve, joins Lara Schmoisman to talk AI in beauty, brand positioning, and the power of solving real problems—not chasing trends. Learn why clarity beats gimmicks, how to build consumer trust with smart beauty tech, and what it really takes to grow a modern beauty brand.
Perfect for beauty founders, marketers, and innovation leaders.|

We'll talk about:

• Stop leading with tech. Start solving real problems.
• Beauty’s not overcrowded, it’s overcomplicated.
• Platforms don’t matter if your customer isn’t there.
• The new consumer doesn’t fall for fluff.
• You can’t be everything. Stay in your lane.
• AI isn’t here to replace humans, it’s here to empower them.

For more information, visit Sampo Parkkinen's LinkedIn.

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Leadership expert Kevin Eikenberry joins Lara Schmoisman on Coffee N° 5 to unpack what real leadership looks like: responsibility, adaptability, and learning as you go. If you’re building a team—or building yourself as a leader—this one’s for you.

We'll talk about:

• Why leadership is not the same as being the boss
• The hardest shift: from doing the work to leading the people
• What “leading by example” really means—and when it backfires
• How to stay strategic without losing sight of the details
• What founders get wrong when they try to do it all
• Building a team culture that values initiative—not just output
• Why good leadership starts with reflection, not perfection

For more information, visit Kevin Eikenberry's LinkedIn.

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