OhHello Ep. 137 Building Brands That Feel Human with Josh Rangel of Ogilvy

Josh Rangel, Senior Director of Social Strategy at Ogilvy, joins host Jeremy Bloom to discuss his journey from traditional PR to leading social strategy for some of the world’s most recognizable brands. Josh shares how authenticity, mentorship, calculated risks, and a people-first leadership style shaped his career. He also explains why brands should stop overengineering content and start communicating in ways that genuinely connect with their audiences. Takeaways: How Josh transitioned from traditional PR to social media strategy Why developing an authentic professional voice can create new opportunities The mentors who helped shape Josh’s career and leadership approach Why brands often overthink and overproduce social content How Ogilvy refreshed Mastercard’s Priceless message for Gen Z Lessons Josh learned after being laid off following an 18-year tenure Why leaders should focus on what they can control and lead with empathy Chapters: 00:00 Meet Josh Rangel of Ogilvy 02:12 From Traditional PR to Social Media 03:08 Launching Klondike on Twitter 04:44 Leading Social Strategy for Major Brands 05:51 How PR Shaped an Earned-First Mindset 07:23 Finding an Authentic Professional Voice 10:33 Mentors Who Shaped Josh’s Career 13:15 Leadership Through Confidence and Empathy 15:21 Why Brands Overcomplicate Social Content 18:29 Taking Creative Risks with Mastercard 21:44 Recovering and Rebuilding After a Layoff 24:53 Career and Leadership Advice 27:04 Final Thoughts and Closing