“Empathy should be abundant.
It should inspire brand growth,
exceptional leadership and positive
impact on people & planet.
THAT’S WHY WE HIRE FOR IT.”
— Ryan Pintado-Vertner
CEO & Founder of Smoketown
Who We Are
CEO & Founder
Ryan is a Chicago-based Strategic Marketing Impact Expert and Activist with over two decades of experience guiding Fortune-level brands, building startups, and leading nonprofit organizations. In his role at Smoketown, Ryan delivers industry-leading expertise, which ultimately leads to strategic business growth through smarter marketing strategies anchored in mission.
Ryan is also a sought-after presenter, panelist, and moderator. An advocate for open, direct communication on structural racism and climate justice, he enables honest discussion about how antiracism and regenerative agriculture can become core to business strategy.
Ryan Pintado-Vertner
CMO-In-Residence
With 15+ years of experience and a passion for growing purpose-driven brands, Asha has experience that spans natural food, personal care, fem care and health & wellness. Her diverse experience spans work at leading marketing agencies, start-up brands, and big CPG companies.
In her time with Smoketown, Asha has led marketing for a range of brands, from beverage & frozen meals to supplements & hair removal. Prior to Smoketown, her experience included Plum Organics, Cora, One A Day and Digitas.
Asha Datta
Our Partners
Top Experts, Across Disciplines
To extend our capabilities and reach, we’ve built a network of top consultants, all pre-vetted, with talent across a range of disciplines. We call it “The Collective.” Their skills include graphic design, copywriting, email automation, sales & channel strategy, DTC, web / Shopify development, and brand management.
Nonprofit & Social Enterprise Partner
In our work with nonprofits, foundations and social enterprises, we collaborate with Mission Partners, a Certified B Corporation™ and a Certified Women-Owned® social impact communications firm that counsels global nonprofits, foundations, and purpose-driven organizations across the U.S. and around the world, as well as the partners who fund and support their work. Their expertise is in guiding organizations to realize their greatest moments of impact to effect positive and lasting social change.