Todd Smith developed a deep respect for brands and brand managers early in his career. After years of working across several different industries, Todd has been CMO at Traeger for the past three years, where he spends most of his time working with the sales, product, and technology teams to drive innovation in every step of the customer journey.

In this episode, Todd and I discuss how no matter what you’re selling, it’s all about understanding who you are trying to reach and working to build a connection. Todd is passionate about cultivating a community of advocates and is always trying to adapt and develop new ways to engage.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • How Traeger is cultivating a community of passionate advocates
  • The benefits of leveraging collaborations in product and marketing
  • The importance of valuing relationships

Key Highlights

  • [03:30] How Todd became CMO at Traeger
  • [07:00] Marketing across different industries
  • [07:35] How is the role of CMO defined at Traeger
  • [08:20] what is the Traegerhood?
  • [11:20] Marketings role in fostering community
  • [14:45] How Traeger is building a long-lasting customer journey
  • [16:40] Transitioning distribution channels
  • [17:50] Leveraging collaborations in product and marketing
  • [20:00] Product innovation as a growth driver
  • [23:00] The “coaching tree” and how it guides Todds decision making
  • [24:50] The importance of valuing relationships
  • [25:55] Staying up to speed by being close to the consumers
  • [27:00] Companies to watch
  • [29:30] Evolving the way you reach your consumer

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Alan B. Hart is the creator and host of “Marketing Today with Alan Hart,” a weekly podcast where he interviews leading global marketing professionals and business leaders. Alan advises leading executives and marketing teams on brand, customer experience, innovation, and growth opportunities. He has consulted with Fortune 100 companies but is an entrepreneur at his core, having founded or served as an executive for nine companies.