Episode 79
Brand Story Podcast

Creative Optimism

featuring Lauren Smith

Executive Creative Director at 72andSunny

Lauren Smith, Executive Creative Director at 72andSunny, talks about working on creative campaigns and building brands for the long term with our president, Steve Gilman.

When you hear the phrase “72 and sunny” you’re probably picturing blue skies, sunshine, and comfortable temperatures. Maybe the thought of a day like that makes you smile. That’s the feeling the ad agency, 72andSunny, grabs hold of every day. That feeling of light and happy optimism is what drives their team to be creative and build uplifting campaigns for their clients.

In this episode, Lauren shares stories from her time as Executive Creative Director of 72andSunny, including how her team tackled the United Airlines rebrand of 2020. She unpacks the work behind building a multichannel campaign, and how important it is to look ahead to build brands for the long term. The episode provides creative inspiration and examples of how we can all continue to learn and grow with just a little creative optimism.

About the Guest

Lauren Smith

Executive Creative Director at 72andSunny

Lauren is the Executive Creative Director of 72andSunny, one of the top ad agencies in the country. She’s helped shape the creative direction for major brands like United Airlines and worked with the NFL, E-Trade, Zoom, Audible, and many others. Before 72andSunny, Lauren worked as the Associate Creative Director for other big advertising agencies including TBWA and R/GA, and her work has earned her numerous awards including three Gold Clios, two Gold Epicas, a craft ANDY, and a Webby’s People’s Choice Award.

Quickfire Q&A

What's changed about your leadership style over the years?

Lauren: When I was younger in my career I just wanted to make things. Now, I want to grow other people and their creative spirit and put them where they think they are going to grow and thrive. And then I’ve also changed the way I look at brands. I’m really looking at how we build brands for the long term.

What's a trait of yours that you used to think was a weakness that now you think is a strength?

Lauren: I have always been a bit oversubscribed. I wanted to have my hands in everything and it would distract me from focusing. And I think now I balance that out a little bit. My role now allows me to take from all the different pieces and funnel them together.

If you could just give your younger self any advice, what would it be?

Lauren: Life is long and full of chapters. You don’t have to do it all now. There’s always the opportunity to change and grow and create and be the best ‘you’ at any given point in time.

Related Links

Lauren on LinkedIn

About The Host

Steve Gilman

As the President of Gravity Group, Steve is passionate about helping brands reach their goals through honest, creative marketing and powerful brand stories.

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