The Focus Group
The Focus Group
The Focus Group, Tim Bennett, John Nash, Bleav
Tim Bennett and John Nash—memorable class clowns in high school, now revolutionary LGBTQ marketing and advertising executives—invite you to share in a friendship that spans 40 plus years. Drawing on their combined corporate and entrepreneurial experience, the conversation ranges from the professional to the personal, and everything in between. Entertaining banter, unique voices, and smart content. We’re all business. Except when we’re not.
Happy Canada Day!
Shop Talk this week looks at the California Public Utility Commission’s process to certify suppliers deemed “oppressed,” including LGBTQ contractors. Caught My Eye looks at the freedom of speech and “Trump” branded cars. Also, a woman falls down a trash chute in Hackensack. Estee Lauder, the co-founder of Estee Lauder Cosmetics, is our Business Birthday.
Jul 4
46 min
TFG Unbuttoned: The New Leader in Fast Food is a Surprise
In this episode of TFG Unbuttoned, Tim and John discuss a disgusting swatting attempt against “Mayor Pete” and his family. Also, Donald is the new Adolf as newborns named Donald have plummeted in popularity. Finally, Chick-fil-A, after 11 years, is no longer America’s favorite fast food.
Jun 30
23 min
Brands Doubling Down on Pride
Shop Talk this week reveals 11 brands that have leaned into PRIDE this year despite the fear of being called out by the anti-LGBTQ cult. Caught My Eye reveals that the FIFA crowds are confused with North America's tipping culture. Also, the iconic Longaberger headquarters building, shaped like a picnic basket, is for sale in Ohio. Nicolas Woodman, the founder of GoPro, is our Business Birthday.
Jun 27
49 min
TFG Unbuttoned: Look at the Camera and Smile
In this episode of Unbuttoned, Tim and John explore a variety of topics, from facial recognition in San Francisco gay bars to private jet scams, and the return of a nostalgic fast-food treat from McDonalds.
Jun 23
22 min
Your Judgement Has Value
Shop Talk this week explores the evolving role of AI in the workplace coupled with the importance of judgment and experience. Caught My Eye uncovers a bitcoin scam, and a missing bottle of Cupcake Pinot Grigio is found inside a female on her way to jail. Ruth Graves Wakefield, the inventor of Toll House chocolate chip cookies, is our Business Birthday.
Jun 20
46 min
TFG Unbuttoned: Happy Pride
TFG Unbuttoned is the 20-minute companion podcast from The Focus Group. Happy Pride! This week Tim and John discuss a PRIDE train in Chicago, and an advertising campaign from Hello Fresh that did not land well—according to PRIDE purists. Also, The Great American State Fair, which is to take place on the National Mall starting June 25th, has seen several states say they will not participate due to costs and partisan politics.
Jun 16
25 min
Procrastination Is a Science
Shop Talk this week explores the science behind procrastination, the impact of emotions, and how stress influences our tendency to delay tasks. Caught My Eye asks whether a model, who sits for a painting now worth millions, should get a little more than the initial day rate as a bonus. Also, was Walt Disney really frozen upon death? William Rosenberg, founder of Dunkin’ Donuts, is our Business Birthday.
Jun 13
55 min
TFG Unbuttoned: The Topmost Hostile States for LGBTQ Business
Up for discussion? Two articles related to acceptance of marriage equality and states that have a hostile LGBTQ business environment. It will surprise no one that “blue states” are more LGBTQ friendly in all aspects when compared to the current “red states”. Also, a descendant of flag maker Betsy Ross donates her sewing table to the Betsy Ross Museum in Philadelphia as the country celebrates its 250th.
Jun 9
24 min
American Entrepreneurs
Shop Talk shares a UK article that advocates understanding your cognitive strengths for better career outcomes. Caught My Eye covers a collector’s missing LEGO collection involving the Bricks & Minifigs franchise. Also, New York, and other US States are cracking down on fake temporary license plates. Jay Van Andel, co-founder of Amway, is our Business Birthday.
Jun 6
44 min
TFG Unbuttoned: Pride, Pounds, and Pee
This week, the latest Target misstep around their Pride Collection, Southwest Airlines compromises on their person of size seating, and the Giro d'Italia warns riders not to pee and toss their water bottles to the side of the road. (Why do fans pick them up and drink out of them?)
Jun 2
23 min
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