On today’s episode, Dawn Dawson talks to Shannon about how her journey from radio to running her own ad agency shaped her perspective as a marketer, why curiosity and competition are key drivers of creative ideas, and how she draws inspiration from unexpected places including her side career as a jet ski racing commentator. Together, they dive into the psychology behind viral trends, the challenges of corporate marketing, and what it takes to stay ahead in a constantly shifting cultural landscape.
Here are three things you’ll learn in this episode:
Why looking outside your own industry sparks more innovative marketing ideas.
Dawn explains how she finds her best creative inspiration not from other marketers, but from completely different worlds—like sports, entertainment, and even her jet ski announcing career. By pulling ideas from outside the usual bubble, she’s able to approach campaigns with fresh angles that competitors might miss.
How scarcity, gamification, and community fuel viral consumer trends.
From fashion drops to TikTok challenges, Dawn breaks down why people love exclusivity and competition. She shares how brands that create a sense of urgency and community—where audiences feel like they’re part of something bigger—can transform everyday products into cultural moments.
The unique challenges of corporate marketing vs. agency life—and how to navigate both.
Having worked in both worlds, Dawn compares the freedom and speed of agency projects with the layered approvals and politics of corporate settings. She offers insights on how to keep creativity alive no matter the environment, while also recognizing the strengths that each side brings to the table.
About Dawn Dawson & Mortgage Solutions Financial:
Website: https://mortgagesolutions.net
Social: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dawndawsond2