Soul & Science: Fast Forward Your Marketing Mind
#82: Chemistry in Collaboration | Stephen Boehler, Founder at Mercer Island Group
December 16, 2024 · 37 min
Why listen
A former P&G brand manager explains what actually makes agency-client relationships last.
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In this episode
- Why short-term thinking is eroding brand building and how to push back
- What creates real chemistry between agency and client teams
- How training gaps are quietly weakening the marketing industry
- Lessons from turning around a major consumer brand that apply today
About this episode
What’s the secret to building lasting and successful partnerships? This week, we dive into the Soul & Science of agency-client relationships with Stephen Boehler, founder of Mercer Island Group and former Procter & Gamble brand manager. Stephen shares his journey from growing up in a family business to leading one of the most respected agency search consultancies. Learn how a serendipitous flight led to the creation of Mercer Island Group, his lessons from turning around the Pringles brand, and why fostering chemistry between teams is vital for innovation and growth.What’s in this episode?
- Why short-termism is a growing challenge—and how to refocus on long-term brand building.
- Tips for creating meaningful client-agency relationships that stand the test of time.
- How training gaps are impacting the marketing industry—and what we can do about it.
Brought to you by Mekanism.

About Soul & Science: Fast Forward Your Marketing Mind
Soul & Science is an award-winning podcast where marketing’s brightest minds reveal what it takes to build breakthrough brands. Hosted by Jason Harris, each episode explores the balance between brand building (Soul) and business performance (Science).
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