Emma Bates
New York, New York
Overview
I help visionary ideas become culturally resonant brands and experiences. I’m a founder and strategic partner to leadership teams at moments of inflection—translating vision, technology, and ambition into brands, products, and stories that people emotionally connect with. My professional background spans founding and scaling a consumer tech company, building emotionally resonant brands, and partnering with executives navigating moments of change—from product launches and new ventures to rebrands and new company initiatives. I’m the co-founder and former CEO of Diem, a venture-backed consu
About
I help visionary ideas become culturally resonant brands and experiences. I’m a founder and strategic partner to leadership teams at moments of inflection—translating vision, technology, and ambition into brands, products, and stories that people emotionally connect with. My professional background spans founding and scaling a consumer tech company, building emotionally resonant brands, and partnering with executives navigating moments of change—from product launches and new ventures to rebrands and new company initiatives. I’m the co-founder and former CEO of Diem, a venture-backed consumer social platform built at the intersection of AI and community (think: chatGPT meets Reddit). We scaled to hundreds of thousands of users and built a cult-like following across Instagram, TikTok, and Substack—reaching over 6 million people each month with zero paid spend. Before Diem, I was a very early marketing hire at both Away and Whalar, working inside two companies that helped redefine modern consumer brands and the creator economy. Prior to this, I ran a blog read by over 100K+ while I was at university. My work and perspective have been recognized by Forbes 30 Under 30, UNESCO, and featured in outlets including TechCrunch, The Cut, Business Insider, Fortune, i-D, and MSNBC. I love to work at the intersection of culture, storytelling, and business strategy—helping ideas land in the real world in a way that feels human, clear, and culturally relevant. I’m especially drawn to work in consumer tech, consumer AI, media and entertainment—where storytelling, community, and technology converge and audience participation is being reimagined. I bring a founder’s perspective to creative and strategic work—grounded in business reality, stakeholder needs, and long term vision. My work often includes: - Brand strategy and storytelling - Fractional marketing leadership - Go-to-market and audience positioning - Innovation, 0-1 product and brand development - Community, marketing and cultural strategy - Brand and strategic partnerships - High-impact launches and campaigns I also speak on the future of brand, media, and the internet, co-host the late-night-radio-show-inspired podcast, Can I Call You? and write Hearsay on Substack—exploring culture, technology, and power through a human lens. www.emmashbates.com