The Journal of a CMO: Kelly Atkinson (Part 1)

Wait What's Next?

What happens when you put a powerhouse exec in the hot seat and ask her to spill the real story behind becoming a CMO? You get this conversation.

In Part 1, Kelly takes us back to the firsts that shaped her career, her first management role, the habits rooted in her upbringing that became her professional superpowers, and the pivotal moments where she leaned into discomfort that ultimately positioned her as CMO across multiple industries.

What does the diary of a CMO really look like?

• Knowing when it’s time to shift gears for real growth
• Why your upbringing shapes more of your career than you think
• Creating space as the only woman in the boardroom
• And why marketing is equal parts art and science

This episode is for anyone navigating transitions, building your career, redefining leadership, and learning how to show up unapologetically in spaces that weren’t designed with you in mind.

Because Kelly’s story isn’t just about climbing the ladder… It’s about rewriting the playbook while you’re on it.

Wait What's Next? Hosts: Laura Alba & Leni Vasquesz

Instagram: @waitwhatsnextpod, @lauraalbaz & @v_leeeni
Email: [email protected]