In this special recap episode, I look back at the ten big predictions I made for 2024—and rate how each one actually turned out. From continued tech layoffs to a surge in AI-driven content (and even a bold guess about a marketing conference with good food), I evaluate which predictions nailed it, which ones fizzled, and what surprised me the most. Tune in to hear the year-in-review of AI’s rise, the state of SaaS, Hollywood hits, and more!
Episode Breakdown
1. Layoffs & Tech Restructuring
- How many companies really did another round of layoffs in 2024?
- The role AI and offshoring played in driving deeper cost cuts.
- Did Apple avoid massive layoffs as predicted?
2. SaaS & AI Acquisition Frenzy
- Which big SaaS players scooped up AI startups—did smaller companies with little traction get acquired?
- Why Gong didn’t get bought by a giant (yet).
- The state of SaaS valuations in 2024—did they return to record highs?
3. AI Content Takes Center Stage
- Checking in on fully AI-generated commercials, shorts, or movies that took the internet by storm.
- The reality of AI plus human co-creation.
- How close we got to truly tear-jerking or hyper-realistic AI productions.
4. Rise of the “Head of AI” Role
- Did companies from every sector really start hiring for AI leadership roles?
- The mix of responsibilities and how quickly these roles grew in 2024.
5. Marketing Conference Food Miracle
- A lighthearted prediction that a marketing event might finally serve amazing food—did it happen?
- Listener stories and personal experiences from 2024 conferences.
6. AI-Generated Super Bowl Ads
- Which brands used AI in their creative process for the Big Game?
- How much of the final product was truly AI vs. human-driven editing?
7. AI Companions: Breakthrough or Bust?
- Analyzing the rise of AI girlfriend/boyfriend apps for companionship and mental-health support.
- Any major bans or government crackdowns on “fake companion” apps?
- Surprising ways these tools impacted real people’s lives.
8. Mr. Beast’s Next Big Venture
- Did 2024 see Mr. Beast launch a project that pushed him into billionaire territory?
- A look at how he expanded his brand or philanthropic efforts.
9. Bad Boys 4 at the Box Office
- Did Will Smith’s return pull in the predicted $600M+ globally?
- Exploring the film’s performance and reception post-controversy.
10. Influencer Retires for Politics
- Did we see a well-known social media star hang up the mic and announce a run for office?
- The blurry line between internet fame and political ambition.
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