What’s Next: The Ruder Finn Podcast

In this episode, guest host, Eric Petersen, Managing Director of rf.Digital, speaks with Ryan Liebling, Senior Industry Manager and Vertical Lead at Reddit, about the growing value of online communities and the people behind them. 
Ryan shares what makes Reddit’s communities different, why people seek out firsthand experiences and honest opinions online, and how those conversations are shaping the way people find information and make decisions. He also discusses how brands can participate in communities in ways that are useful and relevant to the people in them.
Looking ahead, they discuss how online forums will continue to grow while maintaining the culture and connections that make its communities valuable. Tune in for a conversation why firsthand experiences and human perspectives still matter when information is easier than ever to find.
For any inquiries about the podcast, please email whatsnextpodcast@ruderfinn.com.    

In this episode, Kathy Bloomgarden speaks with Bryan Madden, Global Head of Marketing – AI Software, Sovereign & Physical AI at AMD, about what’s really shaping the future of AI.
From the growing influence of developers to the power of open ecosystems, Bryan explains why trust is imperative for driving adoption. He also shares why storytelling and emotion are becoming essential to making complex technologies resonate, and how “possibility is personal” in the age of AI.
Tune in for a conversation about technology, creativity, and what it takes to build a more human-centered AI future.
For any inquiries about the podcast, or to connect with Kathy, please email whatsnextpodcast@ruderfinn.com.

In this episode, Kathy Bloomgarden speaks with Tejas Totade, Chief Technology Officer and Head of AI at Ruder Finn, about the shift from AI experimentation to real business impact.
As organizations move beyond pilots, Tejas shares a sharp perspective on what it takes to operationalize AI across an organization, from identifying where it can drive measurable ROI, to upskilling teams and leadership, to embedding into everyday workflows in ways that deliver real value. They also reflect on Ruder Finn’s evolution as a tech-forward agency and the agency’s philosophy on true AI integration internally and for clients.
For any inquiries about the podcast, or to connect with Kathy, please email whatsnextpodcast@ruderfinn.com. 

What happens when one of the world’s leading technologists redefines the future of AI through a human lens? In this episode, Kathy Bloomgarden sits down with Yvette Kanouff, Emmy Award–winning engineer and Partner at JC2 Ventures, to explore how AI is becoming the next essential utility for business and life.
Together they discuss how curiosity, collaboration, and generosity drive innovation and how technology, when grounded in human connection and purpose, can transform the way we live, learn, and lead.
For any inquiries about the podcast, or to connect with Kathy, please email whatsnextpodcast@ruderfinn.com.

When science and storytelling collide, real change happens. In this powerful conversation, Kathy Bloomgarden and Ed Harnaga, healthcare marketer and former Pfizer CCO, explore how transparency, authenticity, and empathy are redefining the future of healthcare.
Together they reflect on lessons from one of history’s most high-stakes moments and discuss how AI, micro-influencers, and human connection are transforming the way we build trust and bring science to life.
For any inquiries about the podcast, or to connect with Kathy, please email whatsnextpodcast@ruderfinn.com.

We’re standing at the edge of the great leap, a moment where technology and humanity move forward together. In this episode, Kathy Bloomgarden sits down with Zack Kass, Global AI Advisor and Former Head of Go-to-Market at OpenAI, for a conversation that blends innovation with purpose.
Together, they explore how intelligence can become an abundant resource for good and what it means for the future of work, creativity, and human connection. Their discussion goes beyond technology to consider the moral imagination, empathy, and optimism needed to guide the next industry shift, one where progress is not just measured in data, but in how deeply it serves people.
For any inquiries about the podcast, or to connect with Kathy, please email whatsnextpodcast@ruderfinn.com.

What’s Next is a new podcast hosted by Kathy Bloomgarden, CEO of Ruder Finn. Listen along for candid conversations with the innovators, leaders, and visionaries as they explore the trends, technologies, and ideas that are redefining what comes next for integrated marketing communications.
For any inquiries about the podcast, or to connect with Kathy, please email whatsnextpodcast@ruderfinn.com.