In this exclusive live session from Smart Marketer Live, Molly Pittman and John Grimshaw dive into the biggest challenges businesses face in 2025 and, more importantly, the strategies you need to stay ahead. From rising ad costs to shifting consumer behavior and increased competition, this episode is packed with insights on how to adapt and thrive.

“We’re in the middle of a major shift. The businesses that succeed in 2025 are the ones that pivot fast, embrace change, and double down on what works.” – Molly Pittman

You Will Learn:

• Why ad costs are rising (and what you can do about it) • How to adjust your marketing for the new “messy middle” of consumer behavior • The importance of identity-based marketing over interest targeting • How AI is disrupting eCommerce and what that means for your business • Why building a hybrid brand (content + community + commerce) is the key to long-term growth • Actionable steps you can take today to increase engagement, conversions, and brand loyalty

Links & Resources:

• Smart Marketer – smartmarketer.com • Molly Pittman – mollypittman.com • Follow Us on Instagram – @smartmarketer • Smart Marketer Live 2025 Super Early Bird Tickets – smartmarketerlive.com

Time Stamps:

• 00:00 – Introduction: The 2025 Marketing Shift • 00:00:44 – Why 2024 was a “difficult year” for marketers & entrepreneurs • 00:02:15 – Rising ad costs: The real numbers & why they matter • 00:04:09 – Attention spans are shrinking: How to stand out in a distracted world • 00:06:19 – The messy middle: Why customers now need 15-30 touchpoints before buying • 00:09:16 – Meta’s interest targeting is disappearing. What’s next? • 00:11:00 – The AI disruption: What business owners need to know • 00:15:59 – The Hybrid Brand Model: The key to success in 2025 • 00:21:30 – Building customer loyalty & brand trust in a saturated market • 00:45:57 – Expanding a Brick-and-Mortar Business with Digital Strategies • 00:47:48 – Final Thoughts & Key Takeaways

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• 📢 Leave a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts – Click Here • 📲 Share this episode on social media and tag us @smartmarketer • 💌 Have feedback? Email us at support@smartmarketer.com

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