The Art of the Brand Why Influencers, AI & Brands Are Colliding in 2026
Jan 7, 2026
Discover the evolving world of branding as influencers and ownership collide. Explore how AI is reshaping creativity and why luxury brands are resisting influencer entitlement. Delve into the industry's struggle with forgettable creativity and the need for memorable branding. Hear about the shift from trend-chasing to strategic thinking that prioritizes lasting impact. Learn about the decline of monoculture and the importance of connecting brands with niche communities. It's a lively discussion on what it takes to build a brand that endures.
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Influencer Breakup With The Row
- Neela Mahuja published a Substack breaking up with The Row after feeling mistreated despite being a paying client.
- She then posted a YouTube rebuttal because parts of her story were behind a paywall and critics had judged without full context.
Change Your Mind As Evidence Arrives
- Phillip Millar argues people must be open to changing their minds as new evidence appears.
- He framed intelligence as holding convictions that shift with new information.
Well Done But Unmemorable Crisis
- Both hosts say much modern creative is technically excellent but forgettable due to lacking a memorable story.
- They warn AI and templates have raised the bar for competence but reduced differentiation.
