There are some pretty remarkable people in our industry, each offering their own unique perspective to adland.

While we spend so much time learning about our peers’ career highlights, B&T, in partnership with Carat Australia, thought it high time to dig a little deeper, and find out what makes the shining stars of our industry tick and, at times, tock.

So, we’ve recently published – and are continuing to publish – a series of personal profiles.

Get ready to laugh, cry and be taken on an emotional rollercoaster as we hear more about the industry’s most remarkable marketers.

Beam Wallet CMO Holly Stephens: The blockchain battler

When I was 10, I wanted to be either a pilot or an interior designer. I think the leadership side of being a pilot appealed – that and being able to travel. I’m sure my creative side would have come out through these roles.

I wasn’t an A-grade student and I certainly never found school a walk in the park. I was taught at an early age from my parents that you should work hard and the rewards will come. Even though I got good grades, I had to work for it. I still have that mentality today.

The brand I love the most is Thankyou, a social enterprise that commits 100 per cent of its profit to end global poverty. I read (managing director) Daniel Flynn’s book, Chapter One, and was immediately inspired by their story, why they started the business and how they grew. With a strong mission and little budget, they were able to take on other big brands and build a business with purpose. I recommend anyone read that book.

I get motivated by previous versions of myself. You’re only competing against you, so make tomorrow better than anyone could have predicted, especially for those of us who didn’t have a typical A-grade education.

You have to believe in yourself when others don’t. Thinking that if you had more budget it would make a difference; you get smarter and leaner without it.

The best piece of advice I ever got was, ‘The first step is always the hardest, so take smaller steps and break the task down so it is achievable’. Oh, and ask help from others.

Don’t wait for someone to give you an opportunity – go and make one for yourself. You aren’t going to get handed it on a plate and you will learn more along the way.

My favourite piece of tech would have to be blockchain. I actually think that this technology will change everything and disrupt industries like never before. That said, the piece of tech I don’t understand is blockchain. Be wary of anyone claiming they’re an expert in a space which is still evolving. The underpinning tech is baffling to me at times. As marketers, we need to understand the potential impact of the technology as well as needing to fully break down the problem we’re trying to solve first before we start thinking (insert latest trend) is the answer!

The most regrettable thing I’ve ever eaten? That would have to be street food in Bali. And my worst ever holiday? Any camping trip in the UK that invariably involved rain.