Creative Assembly

September 18, 2025

What happens when brands get diversity wrong?

Episode Summary

Episode Overview:
In this episode of The Spark, host Mark Scrivner is joined by Jacqui Hayes, founder and CEO of Crayons & Marketers. Jacqui is a champion of inclusive marketing, helping organizations build authentic connections with diverse audiences through clarity, research, and cultural understanding.

Value Proposition:
For founders, marketers, and creative leaders, Jacqui’s insights are a masterclass in avoiding assumptions, embracing transparency, and leading with empathy in every campaign. She unpacks what it takes to move beyond performative efforts and create brand strategies that resonate with real people.

What You’ll Learn:

  • Why assumptions are the most harmful mistake in inclusive marketing

  • How to address mistakes with transparency and build trust

  • Why market research is essential for authentic communication

  • How brands can avoid stereotypes and achieve cultural relevance

  • The leadership mindset needed for inclusive storytelling

Call to Action:
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What happens when brands get diversity wrong?

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Meet Our Guests

Jacqui Hayes

Jacqui Hayes

Jacqueline Hayes, MBA

Founder + Chief Marketing Strategist

Ever since arriving in Nashville in 1995, Jacqueline has wanted an office atop the “Batman” building. But the breathtaking view of downtown Nashville from the Crayons & Marketers office in North Nashville gives this Birmingham native a sense of pride and a bird’s eye view of opportunities on the horizon.

After a successful career in Sales & Marketing, Customer Relationship Management, and Sales Training, Jacqueline used her knack for developing and nurturing client relationships and a love for writing to start Crayons & Marketers, bringing years of corporate marketing experience to main street.

But, Jacqueline’s work to develop strong ties extends beyond business. She works just as hard to build underserved communities throughout Nashville through her work with several nonprofits and advocacy for women in business. Her leadership has earned her numerous mentions and awards including being named one of the 2020 Women of Influence by the Nashville Business Journal, a 2019 WBE Who Rocks by MBE Magazine, a 2014 ATHENA Young Professional Nominee and receiving the 2013 PENCIL Foundation Volunteer of the Year Award and the 2014 Community Excellence Award presented by the Nashville Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners, of which she is a past president. Jacqueline currently serves on the National Board of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO). Jacqueline is an alumna of Tennessee State University and Middle Tennessee State University. Connect with Jacqueline on LinkedIn.

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