Coffee with Yvonne

Coffee to Go-Buying Back the Block: Investing in Our Communities with Thomas G Bolen III

Coffee with Yvonne is on summer hiatus, but the conversation continues with Coffee to Go — a hand‑picked selection of episodes from the archive (yes, we have an archive!). Each one reflects Yvonne’s cultural fluency, marketing expertise, and commitment to amplifying creative voices.
Enjoy this curated summer playlist wherever the season takes you. The full show returns this fall with new stories, new conversations, and new perspectives.
Coffee to Go Episode Description 
In this episode of Coffee with Yvonne, we delve deep into the transformative power of real estate and community upliftment with the insightful Thomas G. Bolen III. As we wrap up our financial and investment series, Thomas, a seasoned commercial real estate investment broker, enlightens us on the nuances of transitioning from home-based businesses to brick-and-mortar success stories, the critical role of ownership in combating organized retail crime, and the profound impact of investing in our communities. 
Plus, don't miss the engaging discussion on the difference between economic development and gentrification, and why owning your property is more than just an investment—it's a statement of presence and power in your community. 
For inspiration and a masterclass on community reinvestment, tune in to this must-listen episode. 
(Also forgive any background noise you may hear in the episode...city living) 
So grab your coffee and let’s chat...
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.
Chat with you soon. Okay byeeeeeee

When Strategy Takes Flight: Nyeisha Dease on Aviation, Storytelling & Leadership

In this episode of Coffee with Yvonne, host Yvonne sits down with aviation marketing leader Nyeisha Dease to explore how strategy, storytelling, and leadership come together in one of the world’s most complex industries. Yvonne and Nyeisha first met at the inaugural Black Women Marketers Conference in 2025 and became instant marketing friends, a connection rooted in shared creativity, sharp thinking, and a deep respect for the craft.
Nyeisha reflects on the early experiences that shaped her love for communication, how she builds campaigns that resonate with aviation professionals on an emotional level, and what it takes to make an airline stand out in a crowded market. She also opens up about navigating male‑dominated spaces in aviation and the legacy she hopes to leave for the next generation of women in marketing and STEM‑adjacent fields.
A thoughtful, inspiring conversation about strategy, representation, and the stories that help brands and people take flight.
So grab your coffee, and let’s chat 
Takeaways 
The power of authentic storytelling shapes industry perceptions
Representation is often more impactful than size or diversity numbers
Industry challenges are transformed into opportunities through strategic agility and mindset
Breaking barriers requires a collective effort of visibility, community, and targeted support
Skills transfer across industries dismantles career barriers
Episode Chapters 
Introduction and Background
Journey into Marketing and Aviation
Challenges and Opportunities in Aviation
The Importance of Representation
Future of Aviation and Technology
Quick Fire Questions and Fun

Marketing Magic: How Brands Win When They Shape Real Life

In this episode of Coffee with Yvonne, Yvonne is joined by a special guest- her ten-month-old puppy, Saint Laurent Langston Pearson, who serves as co-host for the episode. She explores how brands, creators, and institutions are reshaping culture by influencing the way people live, move, learn, and connect — not just what they buy. 
She begins with the Washington Mystics’ 2026 Rebel Edition uniform, a jersey that transforms U Street’s Black Broadway legacy into a wearable cultural archive. 
Next, she dives into Starbucks’ new RTD protein coffee launch — a campaign that pairs a functional beverage with a weighted vest and a Strava challenge. 
Then she breaks down The Ordinary’s free Brooklyn bus, an anti‑marketing stunt that solves a real transit pain point for New Yorkers, turning accessibility into influence and demonstrating why the most memorable brand experiences are the ones that intervene in everyday life.
Finally, Yvonne explores Harvard University’s new course centered on Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter, where the album becomes a framework for understanding systemic design, policy failures, and the lived experiences of marginalized communities. 
So grab your coffee and let’s chat.
Takeaways 
The Power of Culture as an Active Archive
Habit Formation as a Branding Strategy
Cultural Commentary as Curriculum
The Shift from Spectacle to Utility in Experiential Marketing
Amplifying Social Impact through Institutional Use of Culture
Articles
Washington Mystics Unveil 2026 Rebel Edition Uniform
Starbucks RTD Coffee & Protein uplevels morning routines with new weighted vest and Strava challenge
The Ordinary's Latest Marketing Stunt? A Free Bus for Brooklynites
New Course Centering Beyoncé And Her 'Cowboy Carter' Album Set To Be Taught At Harvard University - AfroTech
Episode Chapters 
00:00-Introduction
02:07-When Uniforms Become Cultural Archives
07:58-When Morning Routines Become Marketing
11:39-How The Ordinary Turns Utility Into Influence
16:55-How Cowboy Carter Became Academic Infrastructure
24:46-Closing
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.
Chat with you soon. Okay byeeeeeee
 
 

Marketing Magic: Who Really Shapes Culture Now?

In this episode of Coffee with Yvonne, Yvonne unpacks four stories that reveal the shifting power dynamics behind today’s cultural landscape — from who gets to influence it, to who dilutes it, to who builds the world's audiences now choose to live in.
She begins with SHEIN’s acquisition of Everlane, breaking down how fast fashion’s scale continues to erode the industry’s ethical center — and what it means when sustainability becomes a branding tool instead of a business practice. From there, she explores the rise of micro‑culture and why niche communities now move the masses, reshaping how platforms, creators, and brands think about influence.
Yvonne then turns to Courtney A. Kemp’s multi‑year deal with Apple TV+, examining how showrunners have become the new architects of prestige IP — and why platforms are betting on creators with distinctive narrative signatures. Finally, she dives into the era of experiential fandom, using the Pokémon Airport as a blueprint for how world‑building, nostalgia, and immersive design are redefining what modern marketing can be.
Across all four stories, this episode asks a simple but urgent question: Who really shapes culture now — and what happens when power shifts?
So grab your coffee, and let’s chat.
Takeaways 
Building brand credibility through ownership of core values becomes optional in a saturated market.
Content creation now functions as a strategic enterprise of culture shaping, not just individual branding.
Experiential environments turn fandom into economic and cultural pilgrimage.
Platforms craft competitive advantage through a focus on culture and worldview, not just algorithmic hits.
Talent deals evolve into long-term brand assets, amplifying platform and creator value.
Articles
Shein buys Everlane, which sold millennials the dream of ethical, affordable luxury
TUBI ANNOUNCES LATEST EXCLUSIVE CREATOR SERIES SLATE, PROVING NICHE IS THE NEW MAINSTREAM - TubiTV Corporate
Courtney A. Kemp Signs Multi-Year Overall Deal With Apple TV+ | Blex Media
World’s first Pokemon airport is opening and includes giant Pikachu - Dexerto
Episode Chapters 
00:00-Introduction to Coffee with Yvonne
02:53-How SHEIN Dilutes the Future of Ethical Fashion
12:20-The Rise of Micro‑Culture: Why Niche Audiences Now Move the Masses
20:47-Courtney A. Kemp & the Era of Creator‑Led Universes
29:15-Building Worlds, Not Ads: The New Era of Experiential Fandom
34:04-Closing
 Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.
Chat with you soon. Okay byeeeeeee
 

Marketing Magic: What Expedia, Pizza Hut, Disney & Spotify Teach Us About Modern Influence

In this episode of Coffee with Yvonne, Yvonne unpacks how four major brands are redefining what influence looks like in 2026. She breaks down the creator‑powered travel ecosystem behind Expedia x IShowSpeed, the nostalgia‑driven loyalty play fueling Pizza Hut’s BOOK IT! revival, the high‑fashion reinterpretation of Mickey Mouse through Disney’s designer initiative, and the trust‑building transparency behind Spotify’s Verified badge.
Across these stories, Yvonne explores the new rules of modern influence, from creator‑led commerce and multigenerational nostalgia to heritage reinvention and authenticity as a product feature. It’s a deep dive into how brands stay culturally relevant, emotionally resonant, and strategically future‑proof.
So grab your coffee, and let’s chat 
 
Takeaways 
How Disney’s collaboration with Vogue reimagines Mickey Mouse as a high-end fashion icon, strengthening its cultural capital
The rise of creator-led marketing: Expedia’s innovative use of iShow Speed’s global audience to turn influence into real-time market insights and bookings
The power of authenticity: Spotify’s Verified Badge as a trust signal in a sea of AI-generated content
The strategic role of nostalgia in building future-proof brand loyalty, exemplified by Pizza Hut’s book-based reward system
Why reinterpretation, not repetition, is the secret behind staying iconic in a rapidly changing world
Articles 
Expedia Teams Up with IShowSpeed to Reimagine Gen Z Travel
IShowSpeed
Pizza Hut’s 'Book It!' summer reading program for kids is back
Disney Unveils Visionary Designer Initiative with Vogue Ahead of Mickey Mouse's 100th Anniversary
Introducing Verified by Spotify, a Signal of Authenticity and Trust for the Artists Behind the Music
Episode Chapters 
0:00-Introduction and Overview
2:13-Why Expedia Bet Big on IShowSpeed, and Won Gen Z’s Attention
12:17-How Pizza Hut Turned Memory Into Momentum
22:24-Disney’s High‑Fashion Remix
29:59-Verified by Spotify: Authenticity as a Feature
36:01-Conclusion
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.
Chat with you soon. Okay byeeeeeee

Marketing Magic: How The Devil Wears Prada 2 Built a Full‑Funnel Fashion Universe

In this early‑release episode of Coffee with Yvonne, host Yvonne Pearson breaks down the Marketing Magic behind the cultural takeover of The Devil Wears Prada 2. From Vogue’s editorial world‑building and Starbucks’ character‑inspired global beverage collection, to mass‑retail fashion capsules, beauty brand integrations, beverage partnerships, cinema‑exclusive merch, experiential pop‑ups, and Google’s AI try‑on at the world premiere, Yvonne unpacks how the film transformed into a fully immersive brand ecosystem.
She explores how fashion, beauty, tech, music, retail, and nostalgia converge to create a world audiences don’t just watch, but actively participate in. It’s a sharp, strategic look at how modern marketing turns a movie into a lifestyle moment, a trend engine, and a global collaboration playground.
So grab your coffee, and let’s chat.
Takeaways 
Marketing the Fiction as Reality
Nostalgia as a Strategic Currency
World Building as a Marketing Ecosystem
Pushing Beyond Lazy Tactics
Cinematic Communities as Cultural Hubs
Articles 
Fashion
Miranda Priestly Would Never Approve This ‘Devil Wears Prada’ Merch Drop on Amazon. That’s All
Walmart Unveils Limited-Time The Devil Wears Prada Scoop Collection
Gird Your Loins! Old Navy x The Devil Wears Prada Collection Is a Must-Have for Movie Lovers
The Devil Wears Prada Merch
Food & Drink
Are you Runway Ready?
Diet Coke and smartwater Make Their Runway Debut with 20th Century Studios’ The Devil Wears Prada 2
smartwater Goes Cerulean with The Devil Wears Prada 2
Starbucks unveils new beverage collection inspired by “The Devil Wears Prada 2” characters as part of a new global campaign
Beauty 
Lancôme debuts 'culturally-driven’ The Devil Wears Prada 2 collaboration. That’s all
L’Oréal Paris taps into cultural zeitgeist with The Devil Wears Prada 2 collaboration
Exclusive: TRESemmé named signature hair care brand of The Devil Wears Prada 2
Movie Merch 
Devil Wears Prada 2 turns popcorn into fashion with handbag bucket
The Devil Wears Prada 2 - Super Ticket
Regal Cinemas Store 
Music 
Lady Gaga and Doechii team up for The Devil Wears Prada 2, and it’s a pairing fans didn’t see coming
RUNWAY song
Activations 
The Devil Wears Prada 2 Pop-Up
Google Puts AI Try-On Into the World of 'Devil Wears Prada 2'
Shop with Google Instagram 
Episode Chapters 
00:00 Intro of Marketing Magic of The Devil Wears Prada
04:40 Vogue
13:42 The Fashions...Where Are The Fashions?
14:11 Fashion Collaborations: A Missed Opportunity
20:25 Character-Driven Product Placement in Food and Drink
25:54 Beauty Brands and Their Strategic Partnerships
29:01 Popcorn Birkin? For the Movies? Groundbreaking
32:37 Music as a Cultural Anchor for Film Promotion
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.
Chat with you soon. Okay byeeeeeee

Suited for Change: How Fashion Fuels Confidence, Identity, and Opportunity with Liz Reinert

Fashion is more than fabric—it’s identity, confidence, and the courage to step into new opportunities. In this episode, Yvonne sits down with Liz Reinert, Executive Director of Suited for Change, an organization that has supported more than 30,000 women in the Washington, DC region since 1992. Through professional attire, one‑on‑one coaching, and essential skills training, Suited for Change helps women show up fully and pursue economic independence with dignity and confidence.
Liz shares how clothing becomes a catalyst for transformation, why redefining “professionalism” matters, and how the organization partners with more than 120 community agencies to ensure women facing barriers have access to the support they deserve. Together, Yvonne and Liz explore the intersection of fashion, identity, and workforce readiness—and the powerful ripple effect that occurs when women feel seen, supported, and prepared for their next chapter.
So grab your coffee and let's chat
Takeaways
Confidence through Experience: Clothing and environment transform self-perception, boosting confidence and success.
Authentic Storytelling: Real stories and community trust drive engagement more effectively than traditional marketing.
Empowerment Beyond Clothing: Professional attire symbolizes worth and readiness, shifting mindsets for workforce success.
Inclusive Service Delivery: Diverse options and personalized approaches foster genuine inclusion and challenge stereotypes.
Community-Driven Impact: Involving clients and volunteers creates a self-sustaining narrative and authentic advocacy.
Episode Chapters
00:00 - Introduction to Coffee with Yvonne and guest Liz Reinert
00:33 - Origins and mission of Suited of Change
01:58 - Impact: Over 30,000 women served
03:26 - Liz’s journey into nonprofit leadership
07:30 - Clothing's role in building confidence
09:29 - Personalized suiting and styling process
12:43 - Inclusive sizing and fashion choices
14:19 - Transformative stories of confidence
15:12 - Coaching program and career support
19:24 - Storytelling and marketing strategies
22:13 - Annual gala and community engagement
24:48 - Community partnerships and donations
29:06 - Fashion and confidence, The Devil Wears Prada reference
32:31 - Future plans for expansion and inclusivity
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.
Chat with you soon. Okay byeeeeeee

Small Events, Big Impact: Measuring Success Beyond the Headcount with Tahirah Bailey Reed

In this episode of Coffee with Yvonne, Yvonne sits down with event strategist and founder of Bailey Reed Events, Tahirah Bailey Reed, to explore how smaller events can still create a big impact. Together, they unpack what creativity really looks like when budgets are tight, guest counts are smaller, and expectations are high.
Tahirah shares how organizations can redefine event success beyond attendance numbers, design meaningful in-person engagement, and use digital experiences to extend the reach and lifespan of live events. From marketing alignment and storytelling to measuring outcomes that matter, this conversation offers practical insight for nonprofits, entrepreneurs, and leaders looking to do more with less — without sacrificing purpose or connection.
Whether you’re planning an intimate gathering, a mission-driven fundraiser, or a strategic brand experience, this episode challenges the idea that bigger is better and offers a smarter, more intentional approach to events.
So grab your coffee and let’s chat.
Takeaways 
How to Build Impact Through Small Intentional Events
Authentic Relationship-Building as a Strategic Asset
Data Integration to Demonstrate Event Impact
Creating Cultural and Contextual Activations
Episode Chapters 
00:00 - Introduction to Tahirah Bailey Reed and her purpose-driven approach to event strategy
02:04 - Tahirah's personal inspiration and transition into entrepreneurship
04:08 - The impact of community-centered events on organizational goals
09:20 - Recognizing opportunities for small events to build bigger movement
11:22 - Strategies for connecting smaller events to larger fundraising and branding objectives
14:42 - The importance of authentic community engagement and organic reach
17:07 - Distinguishing between event planning and event marketing
18:45 - Typical timelines and budgets for planning impactful events
20:17 - Creative ideas for giveaways and digital experiences to increase engagement
25:47 - Designing activations and spaces for social sharing and networking
28:05 - The role of data in demonstrating event ROI and influencing leadership decisions
30:10 - Networking tips: building relationships across organizational hierarchies
33:14 - Fun ways to increase attendee engagement through pre-registration questions
38:49 - Tahirah’s favorite coffee and her insights on authenticity and patience in relationships
Catch up on the latest episode and every episode here.
Don’t forget to follow Coffee with Yvonne on IG and Threads at Coffee with Yvonne.
To learn more about Yvonne and her business, PinkDollhouse Marketing, visit here. Follow Yvonne on Instagram at PinkDollhouse Marketing and at Yvonne_Creativemarketer on Instagram, and TikTok.
Chat with you soon. Okay byeeeeeee