Marketing Happy Hour Marketing Trends & Predictions for 2026
In this episode of Marketing Happy Hour, we’re officially closing out our biggest year yet and looking ahead to what’s next. We reflect on key milestones from 2025 — bringing Ally on as co-host, partnering with brands like Vayner and Digital Summit, expanding our speaking and workshop opportunities, and continuing our mission to deliver actionable insights that help you grow your marketing career.
Then, we share what’s new for 2026, including our refreshed brand identity and the launch of the MHH Collective, our first-ever online community designed to support marketers through connection, learning, and real career conversations.
To close out the episode, we dive into our top four marketing trends and predictions for 2026, including the evolving role of AI, the rise of online + offline communities, why quality content matters more than ever, and how “treatonomics” is influencing consumer behavior.
Whether you’re planning your marketing strategy for the year ahead or thinking about how to future-proof your career, this episode will help you step into 2026 with clarity and intention.
Key Takeaways:
// AI Will Be a Skillset, Not Just a Tool: Marketers who understand how to work with generative AI — not just use it — will become indispensable. AI will handle efficiency and data, but human creativity and storytelling will remain the differentiator.
// Community Is No Longer Optional: Brands that win in 2026 will blend online and offline experiences to build real relationships. Communities that go beyond transactions will drive loyalty, insight, and long-term growth.
// Quality Will Outperform Quantity High-quality, intentional content will continue to outperform high-volume posting. Marketers need to align on why content exists and what value it delivers to the audience.
// Treatonomics Is Shaping Consumer Behavior: Consumers are prioritizing small, everyday moments of joy. Brands that understand how to meet audiences emotionally — not just functionally — will stay culturally relevant.
// Career Growth Requires Proactivity: Investing in learning (AI education, community participation, and skill-building) is essential for staying competitive in a rapidly evolving marketing landscape.
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