029: Inside the C-Suite: Strategy, Risk & Retention with CBO of Armra Rebecca Sollinger

This episode is sponsored by Metricool. Get 30 days free of any Premium plan with code: Darlings and at Metricool.com/Darlings.In today’s episode, Melissa and Meredith are joined by Rebecca Sollinger, Chief Brand Officer at ARMRA and longtime brand leader with experience across powerhouse agencies like Droga5 and RoAndCo, as well as lifestyle brands like Sakara Life and Quiksilver. With a rare perspective from both sides of the agency-client table, Rebecca offers candid insight into what CMOs really want—and how the best agencies rise to meet the moment.From brand building in a fast-moving world to taking smart creative risks, this episode is packed with honest reflections, strategic advice, and real-world guidance for boutique agencies trying to win (and retain) the right clients.If you’ve ever wondered: “Are my pitches actually working?” “What do brand leaders really want from their agency partners?” “How bold is too bold in a client relationship?” This one’s for you.What to expect in this episode: 💡 Rebecca’s journey from investment banking to building brands in both agency and in-house roles 💡 The two things every founder and marketer must align: vision and the P&L 💡 What today’s CMO role really demands—and how it’s evolved in the last decade 💡 Why agency founders often make the best partners 💡 The do’s and don’ts of pitching (seriously—stop screen sharing that whole deck) 💡 When to go bold, when to play it safe, and how to present both without losing your client’s trustActionable takeaways: ✔️ Clarify your agency’s vision—and stay grounded in what you do best ✔️ Ditch the ego: bring bold ideas, but be open to no’s ✔️ When pitching, share a pre-read and focus live calls on collaboration ✔️ Give clients two options: a solid foundation and a bold extension ✔️ If you're using AI, be transparent—smart CMOs expect it and welcome the efficiencyReal talk moments: 🗣️ “If you’re not watching your P&L, you’re not leading a brand—you’re just playing business.” 🗣️ “The best agencies act like true partners. They’re in the weeds with you.” 🗣️ “Don’t pitch me—talk to me. I want to solve a problem together.” 🗣️ “Bold ideas are great, but I also need to know what we’re risking.” 🗣️ “Brand building hasn’t changed—it’s still about emotional connection. But executing that clearly? That’s the challenge.”Connect with Rebecca Sollinger: 🌐 Website: https://www.tryarmra.com 🔗 LinkedIn: Rebecca Sollinger

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