Monthly Musings: Mariah, Ad Spotlights & Our Latest Events

Dear Muse by Clio Readers,

Mariah Carey has spoken and the holiday season is in full swing. I’ve always been amazed at how this time of year feels like it’s both dashing by and standing still, a delightful blend of excitement and tranquility. When I was a child in foster care, crossing the threshold into November made life feel suddenly supercharged with possibilities. Even if it wasn’t my reality, the world seemed to shimmer with the promise of warmth, togetherness and a chance to create cherished memories.

That enchantment has stayed with me as an adult, a reminder that the joy of the season can be a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration, no matter where the road takes us. 

With that spirit in mind, I’m thrilled to share the exciting developments we’ve had at Muse over the past few weeks. Our newest Instagram series, “Marketing Made Me Try It” is off to a fun start. I’ve been busy sampling products and events from creative that our editorial team finds compelling—from Buffalo Pepsi (yes, that’s a thing) to New York Comic-Con and Heluva Good Dip with a boy-band legend. Talk about a joyous moment!    

We also rolled out our new Instagram series, “Ad of the Week,” where we highlight the most captivating creative ad selected by our editors. So far, we’ve turned the spotlight on “Feed a Child, Feed a Childhood” by Broken Heart Love Affair for World Vision Canada; “Feeding Time” by TBWAChiatDay L.A. for Jack In the Box; “Stir Up” from Wieden+Kennedy London for Kahlua; and “Cuisine Exchange” by adam&eveDDB New York for Kroger. Keep those brilliant ideas flowing, and stay tuned for more inspirational “Ad of the Week” spotlights in the months to come.

Our dedicated team is also working tirelessly to ensure that you’re up-to-date on all the latest holiday news. From heartwarming stories to ingenious campaigns, we aim to be your go-to source for the best creative inspiration and insights throughout this festive season. We’re committed to capturing the essence of the holiday spirit and showcasing incredible work that adds joy, meaning and nostalgia to this special time of year.

Looking ahead, we have some exciting events on the horizon. The Clio Entertainment Awards on Nov. 9 in L.A. and Clio Sports Awards on Dec. 6 in NYC are fast approaching, and we invite you to join us in celebrating the finest creative achievements in these fields. It’s a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals and immerse yourself in the world of advertising, which often plays a central role in storytelling. I’m eagerly looking forward to attending both events, personally connecting with our talented community, and celebrating the boundless creativity that continues to shape our industry. 

On a personal note, I’m proud to announce that the documentary on foster care I’m featured in, “Absence/Presence,” has made its national debut on PBS. This project is deeply meaningful to me, highlighting the resilience and hope of children and teens in the foster care system. It also serves as a reminder that storytelling, advertising and creatives with boundless imagination can drive social change, sparking empathy and championing causes that truly matter. Check it out if you’re interested in learning more about foster care or if you’re searching for a little inspiration. 

And remember, whether you have a groundbreaking idea to pitch or simply want to say “Hi,” my virtual door is always open. You can reach out to me via email at Charell.Star@clioawards.com or connect on Instagram @CharellStar. And make sure you’re following our work at Muse on Instagram @ClioAwards and LinkedIn @TheClioAwards.

—Charell Star