Paula Gean is a seasoned global marketing professional with over a decade of experience in digital marketing. She excels in managing global programs, stimulating sales, and building vibrant online communities. Her career includes leading projects with the World Economic Forum and SXSW, generating nearly $100 million in B2B tech sales. Recognized as a thought leader in marketing and community cultivation, Paula’s comprehensive background spans marketing, sales, strategic planning, and community development. She crafts effective strategies that drive revenue growth and enhance brand visibility. As the producer and co-host of Retail Relates, she engages audiences and enriches discussions around marketing and strategic communications. Paula is passionate about collaboration and shared learning, aiming to achieve remarkable milestones in marketing and community development.

Dr. Gautham Vadakkepatt is an Associate Professor of Marketing at UCF College of Business, with over a decade of experience in academia and industry. His research focuses on the intersection of market strategies and emerging technologies, impacting customer metrics, firm value, and social impact. Gautham has authored papers in top-tier journals and received prestigious awards like the 2021 Davidson Award and the 2015 MSI/H. Paul Root Award. He has developed and taught innovative courses on marketing analytics, technology, retail management, and business innovations, earning outstanding teaching awards in 2017 and 2021. As the founding director of the Center for Retail Transformation at George Mason University, he built significant private-public partnerships. Recognized as a top retail influencer by Rethink Retail and a Coresight AI Influencer, Gautham continues to shape the future of marketing with his insights and leadership.

Rich Honiball combines strategic and consumer insights as EVP, Global Chief Merchandising & Marketing Officer for NEXCOM, overseeing merchandising and marketing efforts for a $2+ billion global enterprise offering retail, services, food & hospitality. Before NEXCOM, Rich founded PDB Advisory Group & the Brand(Co)Lab, advising CEOs on purpose-driven marketing strategies and brand development. His roles at Haggar and JCPenney involved significant brand development and corporate refresh initiatives. He shares his extensive retail and consumer behavior expertise as an adjunct instructor at George Mason University. An MBA graduate from William & Mary and a BS in Marketing from SNHU, Rich is dedicated to mentoring, having served on several educational and nonprofit boards. Honored for his retail expertise by Rethink Retail, innovative marketing by the CMO Club, and as an ONCON ICON Top 100 Marketer, Rich continues to influence the industry while traveling the world.