“You have to have that resilience and push through it. The only way I see having that resilience in a way that is sustainable is if you realize you can't do it alone, that excellence won't happen independently. Excellence requires help.”
— Frank Cooper III

Visa is a globally recognized financial brand that stands out for its innovative approach to payments and transactions. Its influence in the financial industry is notable not only due to its extensive network but also because of its commitment to driving progress through culture and technology.

In this throwback episode of the Speed of Culture podcast, we sat down with Frank Cooper III, the Chief Marketing Officer at Visa. Frank engages in an insightful conversation, exploring the ever-evolving world of marketing. His journey from Harvard Law to becoming Visa's CMO and his passion for understanding and leveraging culture highlights the importance of aligning personal interests with one's professional path. Whether you're a budding marketer or a seasoned expert, Cooper's wisdom provides a unique perspective on navigating the dynamic and rapidly changing landscape of modern marketing.

Here are the top takeaways:

• The Power of Ikigai: Frank emphasizes the significance of self-awareness and introspection in his career journey. Understanding what energizes you and aligning it with your career can lead to fulfillment and success. He adheres to the Japanese concept of Ikigai, which involves identifying what you love, what the world needs, what you're good at, and what you can get paid for. When these four areas align, one can find a clearer path to their meaning in life.

• Utilizing Culture in Marketing:  Cooper's experiences at iconic labels like Motown and Def Jam Recordings shaped his approach to marketing, highlighting the role of culture in shaping how businesses communicate with their audiences. This strategy of cultural branding played a pivotal role during his time at Pepsi and BlackRock and continues to be a significant part of his work at Visa.

• Understanding Business to Drive Growth:  As the CMO at Visa, Cooper highlights the significance of grasping both the business and the industry. This understanding plays a pivotal role in identifying marketing opportunities that drive company growth. Achieving this entails asking questions, comprehending the industry's revenue generation, understanding the key players in the ecosystem, and being familiar with the decision-making processes involved.

• The Influence of AI in Marketing:  As technology evolves, AI and machine learning are becoming more influential in the marketing and media world. These tools can create value for users and significantly impact the strategies brands employ to reach their audience. Frank stresses the importance of staying curious and continuously learning to keep up with these changes.

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