Ruder Finn Launches "What's Next" Podcast to Examine Future of Marketing, Media, and Leadership

New podcast hosted by CEO Kathy Bloomgarden explores how AI, innovation, and disruption are reshaping the communications industry.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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Ruder Finn, a leading global communications and marketing agency, has launched a new podcast called "What's Next: The Ruder Finn Podcast" hosted by CEO Dr. Kathy Bloomgarden. The podcast will feature conversations with industry innovators, tech pioneers, and communications leaders on how AI, automation, and digital transformation are impacting the future of marketing, media, and business leadership.

Why it matters

As the communications industry faces unprecedented technological and cultural disruption, this podcast provides a platform for influential voices to guide organizations and individuals on navigating change and identifying new opportunities. Ruder Finn's position as a global leader in AI-powered marketing strategies gives the podcast unique insight into the evolving landscape.

The details

The first three episodes of "What's Next" cover how AI is reshaping decision-making and human ingenuity with Global AI Advisor Zack Kass, the importance of personal connections in healthcare communications with former Pfizer CCO Ed Harnaga, and staying curious in a rapidly evolving tech landscape with Emmy-winning engineer and JC2 Ventures partner Yvette Kanouff. Future episodes will explore the impact of AI on brand communications, innovation-driven growth, and the future of audience engagement.

  • The podcast launched in March 2026.

The players

Ruder Finn

One of the world's largest independent global communications and integrated marketing agencies, leading the industry in AI strategy and implementation.

Kathy Bloomgarden

CEO of Ruder Finn and the host of the "What's Next" podcast.

Zack Kass

Global AI Advisor and former Head of Go-to-Market at OpenAI, featured as a guest on the podcast.

Ed Harnaga

Former Pfizer Chief Communications Officer, featured as a guest on the podcast.

Yvette Kanouff

Partner at JC2 Ventures and Emmy Award-winning engineer, featured as a guest on the podcast.

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What they’re saying

“As AI and automation accelerate change, communications leaders have a responsibility to help organizations move forward with clarity and optimism.”

— Kathy Bloomgarden, CEO, Ruder Finn (prnewswire.com)

What’s next

Future episodes of the "What's Next" podcast will explore additional topics related to the impact of AI, innovation, and disruption on the communications industry.

The takeaway

Ruder Finn's new podcast provides a valuable platform for industry leaders to share insights and strategies for navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of marketing, media, and business communications in the age of AI and digital transformation.