The Ad Race

Hosted by Fayola Douglas

Business Arts News CommentaryInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Sep 2026

Language

About the show

The Ad Race, what is it? It’s a chance to have an open discussion on inclusivity, representation in all forms, and, most importantly, to celebrate the successes within the ad industry. Guests will also be joining us in debates, weighing in on trending D&I topics, and sharing their experiences. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Listen to episodes

32 recent

September 21, 202652 min

The Ad Race with Shanice Mears The Ad Race with Shanice Mears The Career Advice Nobody Tells You: Be Visible, Be Kind, Be Useful

In this episode, Fayola Douglas interviews Shanice Mears who shares her journey from dance graduate to founding the Elephant Room. Shannie shares her insights on diversity, community building, and navigating the industry as a founder and head of culture. Discover practical advice for early career professionals and how to authentically engage with communities. Keywords: career development, diversity, community building, advertising, marketing, leadership, entrepreneurship, industry insights Resources The Elephant Room https://theelephantroom.net/about-us/ LinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/shanice-mears-frsa-41b36510b Substack https://substack.com/@shanniemears Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 26, 202651 min

The Ad Race with Ben Titchmarsh: The Power of Offline Connections

In this episode, Fayola Douglas interviews Ben Titchmarsh about navigating Cannes Lions, the importance of networking, and how to thrive in the fast-paced world of PR and marketing. Ben Titchmarsh is Associate Director at Propeller Group, a prominent PR agency in London and New York specialising in the worlds of marketing, media and technology. Ben works across Propeller’s client roster, with his background in journalism giving him a strong nose for news and industry storytelling. A love of networking and industry culture has made him a familiar face at events such as Cannes Lions, Advertising Week New York, Advertising Week Europe and Possible Miami. LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bentitchmarsh/ Cannes Lions Official Website - https://www.canneslions.com/ Brixton Finishing School - https://brixtonfinishing.com/ Propeller Group - https://propellergroup.com/ The Ad Race, what is it? It’s a chance to have an open discussion on inclusivity, representation in all forms, and, most importantly, to celebrate the successes within the ad industry. Guests will also be joining us in debates, weighing in on trending D&I topics, and sharing their experiences. Keywords: Cannes Lions, networking, marketing, PR, industry insights, inclusivity, content strategy, event tips, Leadership, Culture, Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

April 22, 20261 hr 0 min

The Ad Race with Dipti Shah : Creating Inclusive Workplace Cultures

In this episode, Fayola Douglas interviews Dipti Shah, a seasoned Strategic People & Culture Advisor and Founder of Conscious Rebel Leadership. They explore the evolution of leadership, diversity, and culture in the advertising industry. Sharing some practical insights on fostering inclusive environments, managing change, and leading with consciousness and rebel spirit. Connect with Dipti Shah https://www.linkedin.com/in/dipti-shah-03/ https://www.theconsciousrebel.co.uk/ Follow The Ad Race over on Instagram www.instagram.com/theadrace/ #TheAdRace is an open conversation about advertising, marketing, media, comms and diversity & inclusion. Expect an unfiltered approach, lots of laughter, personal insights, and lived experiences. Leadership, Culture, Diversity, HR, Advertising Industry, Inclusion, Change, Conscious Leadership, Career Development, Gender and Age Diversity Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

March 19, 202643 min

The Ad Race with Sheeraz Gulsher: From Stumbling Into Comms to Building a Movement

In this episode, Fayola Douglas interviews Sheeraz Gulsher, Co-Founder of People Like Us. Sheeraz shares his journey from studying English and creative writing to becoming a champion for diversity and inclusion in the marketing and PR industry. He discusses the importance of representation, the impact of campaigns, and the importance of industry transparency and equity. Find People Like Us https://www.plu.org.uk/ People Like Us – a celebration of racially diverse media and marcomms pros https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/people-like-us-a-celebration-of-racially-diverse-media-and-marcomms-pros-tickets-1984296172267?aff=oddtdtcreator Follow The Ad Race over on Instagram www.instagram.com/theadrace/ #TheAdRace is an open conversation about advertising, marketing, media, comms and diversity & inclusion. Expect an unfiltered approach, lots of laughter, personal insights, and lived experiences. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

December 13, 202538 min

The Ad Race x Christmas with Yasmin Arrigo and Dino Myers-Lamptey

In this special Christmas episode of The Ad Race podcast, host Fayola Douglas is joined by Yasmin Arrigo - journalist, editorial director and creator of ADventure and Dino Myers-Lamptey. Founder at The Barber Shop, to delve into the world of Christmas advertising. The trio discusses the creativity and emotional storytelling behind iconic Christmas campaigns, starting with the much-anticipated John Lewis ad. They explore the impact of these ads on mainstream culture and the pressure brands face to deliver memorable content. From the nostalgic tones of John Lewis to the humorous series by Tesco, and the playful charm of Asda's Grinch, this episode offers a comprehensive look at how different brands capture the festive spirit. Tune in for an engaging conversation that celebrates the art of advertising and its role in shaping holiday traditions. Follow The Ad Race over on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theadrace/ #TheAdRace is an open conversation about advertising, marketing, and diversity & inclusion. Expect an unfiltered approach, lots of laughter, personal insights, and lived experiences. Communication Strategy, Brand Influence, Entrepreneurship, Diversity, Public Relations, Cultural Insight, Personal Growth, Community Building, Career Journey, Authenticity Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

December 2, 20251 hr 12 min

The Ad Race with Shanice Hoo Mills: From Navigating Corporate Spaces to Building Kallure

In this episode of the AdRace podcast, host Fayola Douglas sits down with Shanice Hoo Mills, a visionary communication strategist and founder of Kallure. Shanice shares her journey from studying fashion and the arts to becoming a leader in the PR industry. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of navigating corporate spaces, the importance of community and diversity, and her transition to entrepreneurship. Join for an inspiring conversation about resilience, authenticity, and the power of storytelling in shaping brand influence. Find Shanice Hoo Mills on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanice-hoo-mills-609794b3/ Find Kallure on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/kallure-consulting/ Follow The Ad Race over on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theadrace/ #TheAdRace is an open conversation about advertising, marketing, and diversity & inclusion. Expect an unfiltered approach, lots of laughter, personal insights, and lived experiences. Communication Strategy, Brand Influence, Entrepreneurship, Diversity, Public Relations, Cultural Insight, Personal Growth, Community Building, Career Journey, Authenticity Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

October 28, 202557 min

Breaking barriers with Ally Owen: Diversity is about talent, not tokenism

In this episode of the AdRace podcast, host Fayola Douglas interviews Ally Owen, an inclusion activist and founder of Brixton Finishing School. They discuss Ally’s unique journey from studying Egyptology to becoming a leading figure in advertising and marketing. Ally shares her insights on the importance of diversity, representation, and the need for change within these sectors. The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by AI and the significance of building supportive networks for emerging talent. Ally emphasises that true success comes from creating opportunities for all and fostering an inclusive workplace environment. Find Ally Owen on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/ally-owen-2920871b/ Find Brixton Finishing School on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/company/brixtonfschool/ Follow The Ad Race over on Instagram www.instagram.com/theadrace/ #TheAdRace is an open conversation about advertising, marketing, and diversity & inclusion. Expect an unfiltered approach, lots of laughter, personal insights, and lived experiences. Keywords: inclusion, diversity, media, advertising, entrepreneurship, Brixton Finishing School, career development, AI, networking, talent acquisition Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

October 13, 202551 min

The Ad Race with Tiwalola Adebayo: Living in Alignment and Fulfilment

In this episode of The Ad Race podcast, host Fayola Douglas interviews Tiwalola Adebayo, a globally recognised coach specialising in positive psychology. Tiwalola shares her journey from studying Spanish and business management to becoming a life coach and founder of 'Confident and Killing It.' She discusses the importance of aligning one's career with personal strengths, the challenges faced during the pandemic, and her mission to empower women by helping them recognise their intrinsic worth. Tiwalola also emphasises the significance of self-awareness, the need for safe spaces for women, and her experience writing her book, 'Confident and Killing It.' The conversation highlights the importance of living in alignment and the journey of entrepreneurship. Find Tiwalola Adebayo on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiwalolaogunlesi111/ Follow The Ad Race over on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theadrace/ #TheAdRace is an open conversation about advertising, marketing, and diversity & inclusion. Expect an unfiltered approach, lots of laughter, personal insights, and lived experiences. Keywords coaching, empowerment, women, confidence, entrepreneurship, personal development, positive psychology, life coaching, self-awareness, business growth Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

September 30, 20251 hr 1 min

Adapting to Thrive: Cynthia Mutede's Global Marketing Journey

In this episode of the AdRace podcast, host Fayola Douglas interviews Cynthia Mutede, a strategic marketing leader with over a decade of experience in brand growth and multicultural marketing. Cynthia shares her journey from studying in South Africa to working in China and the UK, detailing her experiences at various companies, including Nature's Bounty and Nestle. She discusses her current role at PDC Brands, focusing on Cantu Beauty, and emphasises the importance of understanding diverse markets and consumer needs. Cynthia also highlights the challenges in the hair care industry and her aspirations to mentor upcoming marketers. Find Cynthia Mutede on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/cynthia-mutede-9b63a226/ Follow The Ad Race over on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/theadrace/ #TheAdRace is an open conversation about advertising, marketing, and diversity & inclusion. Expect an unfiltered approach, lots of laughter, personal insights, and lived experiences. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

September 16, 20251 hr 6 min

The Ad Race with Jermaine Balfourth: We're all born creative. So what happens?

In this episode of The Ad Race, Fayola Douglas interviews Jermaine Balfourth, Associate Design Director at Oliver and founder of BLACQ Space. Jermaine shares his journey through the creative industry, highlighting the importance of mentorship, community, and meaningful work. He discusses his educational background, the challenges he faced, and the pivotal role of supportive teachers in shaping his career. Jermaine emphasises the need for a strong community among black creatives and the mission behind BLACQ Space, a platform designed to connect and uplift underrepresented voices in the industry. He reflects on his experiences at Oliver and his aspirations for a more inclusive future in the creative sector. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.