Skills
Jenny Lamboy
Published content

article
Dec 18, 2025
Jolted by the recent federal hemp ban of intoxicating products, brands are asking many questions, most of which only have speculative answers. The biggest: Now what?

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As creative businesses evolve, they must find ways to expand their impact without diluting the identity, values and cultural relevance that made people care in the first place. In culture-driven industries, authenticity isn’t just admired but expected by consumers. Artists, founders and brands often worry that scaling through investor capital, expanded product lines or new markets might compromise the very "edge" that built their audience. However, sustainable success depends on finding ways to evolve without abandoning the ethos that makes your work distinctive. From codifying your core values to hiring the right people, here's how Rolling Stone Culture Council members advise navigating expansion without losing your authenticity or cultural edge.

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As technology continues to redefine how teams operate, leaders must embrace new mindsets, tools and approaches to keep people engaged and innovation on track. From emotional intelligence in hybrid teams to fluency in emerging tech, leadership today looks very different from what it did just a few years ago. Today's most effective leaders blend human insight with digital agility to guide their teams through the constant shifts in their industry. While the basic "people skills" needed to maintain trust and connection with your team haven't changed, there are some emerging abilities that can help you thrive as a leader in 2026. Below, Rolling Stone Culture Council members share the leadership skills they believe will matter most in the year ahead and how these capabilities will shape the next chapter of modern management.

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Here's how to build brand partnerships rooted in authenticity, trust and shared purpose — the kind that inspire audiences and stand the test of time. Today's audiences can spot inauthentic marketing a mile away. That's why the best and most successful brand partnerships are those that feel real — grounded in shared values and genuine connection. Building this kind of collaboration requires mutual trust, creativity and a shared commitment to growth that lasts well beyond a single campaign. To explore what makes these relationships last, Rolling Stone Culture Council members share how brands can create partnerships that grow stronger with time.

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The final quarter of the year is make-or-break for many companies. Here are some goals and actions to close out Q4 on a high note. As the year winds down, many leaders shift their focus to holiday campaigns, budget wrap-ups or end-of-year reporting. But Q4 can also be a strategic springboard into the year ahead. The goals businesses set in these last few months often determine whether they simply coast to the finish line or create lasting momentum. Below, Rolling Stone Culture Council members share the most important goals they’re prioritizing in Q4. These strategies can help you finish the year strong and start the next one on solid footing.

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Is your workplace hurting more than helping your professional growth? Here's how to tell. A toxic workplace can take many forms — sometimes it’s obvious, and other times it’s hidden beneath the surface. Left unchecked, toxic dynamics can undermine collaboration, weaken performance and create lasting harm for both people and organizations. As an employee, recognizing the red flags early is critical to protect both your mental health and career growth. To help you spot toxicity in the workplace, Rolling Stone Culture Council leaders share the signs they’ve seen most often and the steps you can take when faced with these situations.
Company details
Hybrid Marketing Co
Company bio
Hybrid Marketing Co is a business-outcomes focused cannabis go-to-market agency based in Denver, CO. Our approach to branding and marketing places business goals at the heart of every customized strategy we develop. Our B2B and B2C clients include everyone from retail operators and brands to ancillary and advocacy organizations, in both mature and emerging markets. Our aim: grow the industry with business maturity as leaders creating a positive impact every day.