Our Favorite Growth Non-Hacks and Insights from Top Marketing Leaders

"Humor is one of the most powerful ways to create emotional connection. If you make someone laugh, you leave a lasting impression—because people never forget how you made them feel."

In this special episode of Growth Talks with Krystina Rubino, we highlight our favorite growth non-hacks: the timeless strategies that drive real results, not just quick wins. It’s packed with smart insights, fresh perspectives, and valuable lessons for building lasting success.

Hear from marketing leaders like Chiyong Jones (VP of Brand Marketing, Kajabi), Deanna Dong (Former Head of Product Marketing, Writer AI), Ian Yung (Former SVP of Revenue, Tonal), Laura Brooks (Co-founder, Foundation Collective), and Shane Pittson (Co-founder, So&So Venture Studio) as they break down what it takes to drive real growth in today’s environment.

🗝️ Key Takeaways:

• Chiyong Jones shares why humor, when used authentically, remains one of the most powerful ways to build emotional connections and make brands memorable.
• Deanna Dong explains how A/B testing brand messaging ideas brings more credibility and discipline to product marketing.
• Ian Yung encourages growth leaders to dig deeper, seek real insights, and prioritize real experimentation over simply copying tactics and chasing surface-level hacks.
• Laura Brooks reveals why building a strong marketing foundation beats chasing trends. She explains how getting product and customer experience right sets you up for real growth.
• Shane Pittson explains why balancing brand and direct response beats chasing short-term wins, and how smart media bets and emotional connections create customer loyalty.

⏰ Timestamps

00:00: Introduction with Krystina Rubino

00:32: Chiyong Jones: Humor as a Marketing Growth Tool

01:46:  Deanna Dong: Messaging in Product Marketing

02:50: Ian Yung: Seek Truth, Not Shortcuts

04:14:  Laura Brooks: Building a Strong Marketing Foundation

05:55: Shane Pittson: Balancing Brand and Performance

08:03: Closing Thoughts 

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