Brewed for Impact: How BLK & Bold Is Leading the Next Wave of Beverage Marketing

When it comes to purchasing, today’s consumers want more than just a product–they want something to believe in. The rise of purpose-driven brands, founder visibility, AI-powered personalization (with boundaries), and culturally rooted storytelling are reshaping how beverage companies connect with their audiences.

BLK & Bold, a coffee brand built on community, culture, and impact, is a leader in this movement. In this exclusive interview with Co-Founder Rod Johnson, Johnson shares how they’re redefining what it means to market in the beverage space.

Industry BlogsSetup - marketing matchmakersJune 3, 2025Food and Beverage, industry blogComment

The Agency Capability Showcase Recap - 10 Groundbreaking Case Studies in 90 Minutes

At Setup, we work with some of the finest marketing agencies across the nation–each with a unique set of capabilities. Our most recent virtual event gave our partners a platform to share an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into their process, strategy, and campaign results for an array of industries in under two hours. Ten case studies in 90 minutes and a little friendly competition.

Setup News/EventsSetup - marketing matchmakersMay 27, 2025capability showcase, marketing eventComment

Purpose, Proof + Personalization | Secrets to Marketing in the Beauty Industry

In a conversation with Nate Bigger, Founder + CEO of MONPURE and the leader behind the brand’s marketing strategy, we heard firsthand how the company is navigating the beauty landscape with authenticity, science-led storytelling, and a deep understanding of the emotional side of self-care.

Industry BlogsSetup - marketing matchmakersMay 20, 2025beauty industry, lifestyle industry, lifestyle, MONPUREComment

5 Key Takeaways from the Agency Pitch Process

We’ve analyzed ten years of data to uncover the five biggest challenges agencies face when it comes to pitching, and how they can put their best foot forward to present themselves thoroughly and honestly, and win the client.

For AgenciesSetup - marketing matchmakersMay 13, 2025Comment

CMO Spotlight | Joshua Sims Sr. - Noble Food and Pursuits

Setup CEO + Founder, Joe Koufman, spoke with Joshua Sims Sr., the Chief Marketing Officer at Noble Food and Pursuits about how he prioritizes relationships and embodies the humanization of marketing.

The Evolving Financial Industry | Balancing AI, Compliance + Creativity in 2025

The financial services industry has never been known for moving fast—but in 2025, the pressure is on. With artificial intelligence (AI) redefining customer engagement, fintech innovations raising consumer expectations, and tighter regulations around data privacy, marketing leaders in finance are rethinking how they show up, connect, and grow.

Industry BlogsSetup - marketing matchmakersApril 29, 2025financial industry, industry blog, insurance industryComment

The Future of Financial Marketing: AI, Fintech Innovations + Digital Transformation in 2025

With agentic AI systems driving automation, fintech innovations setting new standards, and post-pandemic digital acceleration cementing permanent shifts in behavior, the financial marketing landscape is evolving at a rapid speed. So, how can financial brands stay ahead?

The Rise of AI in 2025: Leveraging your Tech Stack While Preserving Human Connection

Is AI stripping consumers of excitement? Is there unconscious bias in AI? How can marketers stand out while using the same tech stack?

In conversations with marketing leaders in the high-tech and innovation sector, adopting AI is not the challenge. The future belongs to teams who adapt to AI while investing in human elements like curiosity, connection, and inspiration.

A New Era for Innovation | Navigating the High-Tech Landscape

Advancements in AI over the last few years have shifted customer expectations. With all of this power and access, however, comes more responsibility on marketers to lead with intention and care. Explore the biggest shifts in High-tech + Innovation and how marketing leaders can act accordingly.

Marketing Industry/TrendsSetup - marketing matchmakersMarch 25, 2025high-tech + innovationComment

Why Chemistry Matters When Choosing a Marketing Agency

When it comes to picking an agency, chemistry between brands and agencies is often overlooked in the selection process, but it’s one of the biggest indicators of long-term success. Yes, you need a business partner with the right capabilities and experience, but when it comes down to the final candidates, chemistry is what truly sets long-term partners apart.

Women in Marketing: Leadership, Impact + Breaking Barriers

At Setup, we’ve had the privilege of speaking with some of the most influential women in marketing over the years—leaders who are driving change and making an impact in their organizations and beyond. Here’s what we’ve learned from their stories.

Women in MarketingSetup - marketing matchmakersMarch 11, 2025women in marketingComment

Skills That Stick: How Professional Development Drives Success

Great marketers never stop learning—so how are you investing in your team’s growth? From leadership coaching to AI-driven innovation, this blog explores the most effective professional development strategies to keep your marketing team sharp, engaged, and ahead of the curve.