DeNora’s experiences as a teenager quickly shaped how she viewed the world and her role in it. With a passion for civic engagement and empowering young people, DeNora found a home at DoSomething.org where she uses social understanding and data to inspire action.

In this episode, DeNora and I discuss why brands should care about their social impact, how Gen Z is forcing companies to evolve, and the Holy Grail of marketing: how to get people to really buy into what we are promoting. 


In this episode, you’ll learn:

  • How DoSomething.org is fueling young people to change the world
  • The “secret” to getting people to take action
  • The power of being intentional, honest, and centering social good

Key Highlights

  • [01:20] The experience that solidified DeNora’s interstate in civic engagement
  • [03:50] Denora’s path to becoming CEO of DoSomething.org
  • [10:20] How DoSomething is meeting the moment to transform the future
  • [14:45] What do young people care about today and why
  • [17:35] Young people have evolved beyond being influenced by the simple CTA
  • [22:00] The impact DoSomething is driving by giving them tools
  • [24:15] The power of being intentional, honest, and centering social good
  • [26:00] Why brands should care about their social impact
  • [27:50] How the role of civic engagement has changed with today’s workforce
  • [28:30] Centering young people in the dialogue may help us find better solutions
  • [31:40] The formative experiences and people that define DeNora
  • [33:15] What is COVID Clarity?
  • [34:00] DeNora’s advice to her younger self
  • [34:55] Marketers have to evolve to meet the upcoming generations
  • [36:30] Three things companies need to consider to stay relevant
  • [38:20] Which brands are connecting the dots between their brand and consumer’s concerns
  • [40:10] Young people are the biggest opportunity AND biggest threat to marketers

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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 he is an entrepreneur at his core, having founded or served as an executive for nine companies.