It was great to talk to Canadian advertising legend Ron Tite! To kickstart our conversation, he shared some practical applications of comedy in the corporate world. We wrapped up by playing a fun game called “What’s The Purpose?” inspired by his new book, The Purpose Of Purpose!
I asked Ron Tite to explain why he thanked his audience for being “co-authors” of his new book. He tests ideas through social media and public speaking, which may end up in his next book based on audience feedback. He’s always thinking ahead, just like comedians testing new material in comedy clubs.
Ron mentioned how he became a fan of Barbie in his new book and elaborated on that during our call. “I hadn’t really thought about the brand before the movie came out,” he said. Now he appreciates how Barbie promotes gender equality and empowers girls beyond selling products. “There’s so much that Mattel does for the brand to bring that purpose to life.”
For the record, Ron talks about many different brands in the book like GM, but I’d rather talk about dolls than cars! As an agency owner, he said that it’s difficult to pick a dream client. “The most intriguing brands were the ones that I wouldn’t have expected, like a huge environmental organization.”
As for work-life balance, Ron revealed that he sets boundaries by working from his basement when he’s at home to stay focused. Ron recommends planning your schedule based on priorities, which is particularly helpful for executives and politicians.
Ron also shared his views on business trips. “If I’m speaking somewhere, I’m working. I’m not on vacation, so I don’t extend the trip. I don’t spend an extra couple of days in San Diego. I’m working. And if I’m working, I’m doing calls [and] meetings in the hotel room before I go and speak. So, it’s just being really protective. When I’m on vacation, I’m on vacation, and when I’m working, I’m working. I try not to have the worlds kind of bleed into one another.”
He might be a pro at separating work and vacations, but I love how our conversation covered a mix of business and entertainment. We talked about a huge range of topics, including comedy, toys, fashion and internal communications.
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