Jennifer R. Farmer

expert panel

Strong brands know that perception and trust reveal more than any quarterly report. Sales may rise and fall, but a brand’s true health lies in how it’s perceived, remembered and trusted. The strongest brands look beyond surface-level metrics to uncover the real signals of loyalty, credibility and cultural resonance. Measuring that pulse requires both instinct and analysis — understanding not just the numbers, but the stories behind them. Below, Rolling Stone Culture Council members share the key metrics and strategies they use to gauge brand vitality. Their insights reveal how to interpret meaningful data, strengthen consumer trust and build a brand that thrives in the eyes of its audience.

expert panel

Behind nearly every successful entrepreneur is a web of mentors, peers and trusted advisors who provided guidance when it mattered most. Whether it’s by helping you sharpen your skills, offering honest feedback or giving you the courage to take a leap, the right support network can accelerate both personal and professional growth. But mentorship isn’t one-size-fits-all — it can come from seasoned leaders, peers in other industries or even younger professionals who bring fresh perspectives. What matters most is cultivating relationships built on trust, honesty and shared values. Below, Rolling Stone Culture Council members reflect on how mentorship and community influenced their paths and share advice on finding the right support for yours.

expert panel

Even the most seasoned professionals make networking mistakes, but you can course-correct by focusing on trust and genuine connections. Networking is one of the most valuable skills for entrepreneurs and professionals to master, but it’s also easy to misstep. From focusing too much on yourself to forgetting a prior meeting, small mistakes can derail what could have been a meaningful relationship. Fortunately, with the right approach, most errors can be remedied and even turned into trust-building moments. To help, Rolling Stone Culture Council members share the networking faux pas they’ve witnessed — or experienced firsthand — and the strategies they recommend for bouncing back gracefully.

expert panel

Whether you're pitching to investors or sharing an idea with your team, these tips can help you persuade your audience and achieve your goals. Persuasion is one of the most valuable skills in business, shaping outcomes in everything from investor pitches to client negotiations. Especially in creative and culture-driven industries, where ideas and storytelling carry extra weight, the ability to influence others often determines whether a vision gains traction or fades away.  Taking the right approach to communication can directly influence how you connect and inspire confidence in your ideas. To help, the members of Rolling Stone Culture Council share their best strategies for persuading others and why these approaches are so effective.

expert panel

These expert strategies can ensure your website communicates the right message and leaves a lasting impression. A company’s digital presence may start with good design and functionality, but it should also reflect the values and identity behind the business. When your brand message isn’t clear on your website — which may be one of the most important interactions customers have with your brand — visitors may quickly disengage or turn to competitors with stronger positioning.  The best way to avoid this outcome is by intentionally and consistently weaving your values and messaging throughout each page. To help, the members of Rolling Stone Culture Council share strategies for ensuring your brand identity shines through every corner of your company’s website.

expert panel

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.