Embracing Marketing Mistakes

Prepare to be armed with the marketing dos and don'ts that could make or break your brand's presence in the digital world. Chris Norton and Will Ockenden, are here to share the invaluable lessons we've learned from the past year's marketing hits and misses, and to guide you through the shifting sands of social media as we tread boldly into 2024. As we celebrate a new subscriber milestone, we're unwrapping the insights gleaned from our sold out webinar, where we dissected the successes of brands and the fumbles of giants such as Zara and Nike. This dialogue isn't just about what worked and what flopped; it's about equipping you with the hindsight to turn those experiences into foresight for your marketing strategies.Venture with us into the world where TikTok isn't just for dance challenges anymore; it's an emerging search engine titan among the Gen Z crowd, rocking the social commerce boat with a staggering $1.3 trillion market surge. The landscape is evolving, and so are we, analysing the impact of Twitter's rebrand under Elon Musk and spotlighting the power of authentic, creator-driven brand narratives. Through the lens of our client C4 Energy, we'll show you how to leverage content creators in a way that not only captivates your audience but also tells a story they can't scroll past. So plug in and tune out the noise as we navigate through the cacophony of campaigns and the crescendos of triumph in the tempest of today's marketing realm. Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Embark on an enlightening expedition into the heart of market research and customer insights with our illustrious guest, Katie Tucker of Product Jungle. We uncover the transformative power these tools hold for businesses of all sizes, debunking the myths that shroud their potential. You'll gain a front-row seat to Katie's own evolution from journalist to entrepreneurial trailblazer, as we delve into her globe-trotting revelations and the customer-centric philosophy that now drives her successful venture. Along the way, we intertwine personal narratives of setbacks and resilience, illustrating how they can forge paths to innovation and growth.This episode is a treasure trove for anyone curious about the intricacies of crafting surveys that truly speak to customer needs and the delicate dance of balancing one's ego in the corporate arena. Katie share insights from her own journey, including a business venture reshaped by the pandemic's unforeseen opportunities, leading to a newfound passion for writing and personal branding. We probe into the importance of self-awareness and the external perspectives needed to challenge entrenched mindsets, ensuring your business decisions resonate deeply with those you aim to serve.As we  examine the landscape of B2B marketing, you'll be intrigued by the call for more human and creative approaches, moving beyond the stale norms that often plague this sector. We investigate how customer insight has been the linchpin in both triumphs and pitfalls for industry giants, using case studies like Google Glass and Airbnb to illuminate these lessons. Ending with an invitation to apply the wisdom from Katie's bestseller, "Do Penguins Eat Peaches?". This episode is an invaluable compass for anyone navigating the wilds of market research and customer centricity. Join us for a show that promises not just knowledge but a genuinely human connection to the art of understanding your clientele - do you really know your customer? Now is the time to find out. Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Join the conversation with Laura Brown, Engtel's marketing maestro, as we pull back the curtain on the thrilling world of international marketing in the era of remote work. Our latest episode boasts an intimate discussion with Laura, illuminating her rise to marketing strategy stardom and how she orchestrates a culturally diverse team from miles apart. Vicki Murphy (standing in for Chris this week) chimes in, offering her take on the unique challenges and triumphs of telecommuting from across the pond.Ever wondered how a remote marketing team thrives? Laura and Will dissect the tactics and tools that keep her squad at Engtel in sync despite the distance. From 'marketing therapy sessions' that align sales and marketing priorities to leveraging platforms like Teams and Monday.com for that much-needed visibility, we spill the secrets to our international success. Listen in for a masterclass in nurturing team spirit and productivity across continents, all while keeping cultural identities intact.But it's not all strategy and success; we keep it real by sharing a laugh over some memorable business faux pas. Vicki candidly recounts a cringe-worthy encounter with Jedward and the invaluable lessons learned from trusting your gut. Engtel's dedication to diversity and community engagement shines through as we discuss their Diversify the Future Foundation Programme and the Her Success Podcast, proving that the heart of business lies in its people and purpose. So, pull up a chair and get ready for an episode that's as informative as it is entertaining. Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Prepare to navigate the murky and slightly terrifying waters of brand misinformation with Ant Cousins as we uncover the key strategies you can use to defend your brand's reputation. This episode of Socially Unacceptable is a treasure trove of insights, where a veteran of the IT and defence sectors joins us. Ant Cousins from Cision brings his rich experience, guiding us through the complex maze of misinformation that threatens all marketing campaigns and brand integrity in 2024. Listen as we carefully dissect the anatomy of misinformation, from political manipulation to AI-generated content, and learn how to fortify your brand against the onslaught of falsehoods.The conversation then takes a technological turn, highlighting the power of AI in revolutionizing social listening and media monitoring. With CISION's advancements, including their acquisition of FactMatter, we delve into the capabilities of contemporary tools to sift through vast amounts of social media content. Our discussion reveals how AI has grown to comprehend nuanced conversations, providing an accurate analysis of public sentiment critical for brand management. Ant shares his journey, reflecting on social media's evolution and its significant impact on communication and data exploitation, giving us a peek into the future of brand protection strategies.Finally, we explore the tangible consequences that misinformation can have on renowned brands and how they've responded to crises, ranging from the Disney World drinking age fiasco to the misrepresentation of COVID-19 vaccine data. We examine the importance of preemptive narrative shaping and responsive action plans in mitigating the reputational damage misinformation can cause. We also look at Ant's personal experiences, including the intense challenges of leading FactMatter, in this section he provides a candid backdrop, highlighting the importance of resilience in times of crisis. Join us for the episode that equips you with the knowledge to steer your brand through the ever-evolving landscape of digital communication and misinformation. Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Unlock the secrets to recruiting and retaining the crème de la crème of the marketing world with Melanie Parker, our esteemed guest who's an expert in the recruitment landscape. Melanie lays bare the harsh reality of an outdated educational system failing modern marketing needs, while we sprinkle in tales from my own recruitment playbook, emphasising why a strong portfolio and experience trump any unpaid internship. With Melanie's savvy insights, we chart a course for businesses to navigate the rough waters of the talent gap and come out on top.Ever wonder how mid-sized companies can go toe-to-toe with the big dogs in the battle for talent? Melanie and ourselves shine a light on the strategic importance of a company's 'why' as we dissect how to craft an employer brand that resonates with the desires of today's job seekers, especially when it comes to remote work. We don't just stop there; we also tackle the thorny issue of AI in marketing, from automating the mundane to sparking a renaissance in creative thinking.Our convo takes a turn down the culture corridor, revealing how current employees can be your best billboards and why a shift from rigid hierarchy to a flatter, more inclusive workplace is winning the day. And if you're curious about how professionals are championing a new work-life balance, or why the North is the next big thing for career movers and shakers, you'll want to lend an ear. So, sit back, press play, and equip yourself with the strategies to ensure that your marketing team not only survives but thrives in today's digital jungle. Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Are you ready to navigate the constantly shifting digital landscape? Join us as we unravel the complexities of social media and online communication with our esteemed guest, Neville Hobson. A seasoned podcaster and an online veteran since 1988, Neville's insights on Elon Musk's disruptive Twitter tactics and the future of podcasting for brands are not to be missed. Plus, hear about his major blunder with a financial press release that's guaranteed to make your blood run cold.Neville, a pioneer of PR and communication podcasting, shares his candid thoughts on the state of Twitter and where marketers should be directing their efforts in this age of countless channels and emerging AI technologies. According to him, it all boils down to the basics – focusing on the people you're trying to reach. Peppered with enlightening discussions and intriguing anecdotes, this episode is an insightful journey through the world of online communication and social media. Tune in for a fascinating conversation and learn how to harness the power of podcasting effectively. Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Get ready to supercharge your marketing and PR strategies with the power of artificial intelligence. We promise, by the end of our episode, you’ll be equipped with practical strategies and insights that can help you harness AI's potential and make the most of it, no matter how fast-paced its evolution.We'll take a deep dive into the ways AI is being employed, from content creation to crisis communications, and how it is enhancing creativity in marketing. We unravel the latest trends, ethical considerations, and controversies in the industry, including the ongoing debates around OpenAI and its founder, Sam Altman, and the Bank of England's apprehensions about AI manipulation. As we demystify how AI is influencing PR—serving as a first draft for content creation, saving precious time, and augmenting human creativity—we invite you to envision the remarkable contributions AI can make to your strategies.But, we're not stopping there. We also examine the risks and implications of AI misuse, as well as discuss a BBC story where a journalist created a custom GPT capable of crafting convincing scam texts. We know that the potential benefits and efficiencies AI can bring to the marketing and PR industries are undeniable, so we'll also present various AI tools that you can incorporate into your strategies. So come and explore the myriad ways AI is reshaping the marketing and PR world.  Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Meet Guy Clapperton, a seasoned media trainer and journalist with a treasure trove of insights into the art of media interactions. Brace yourself for an enlightening discourse on media training, strategic communication, and the mastery of interviews. You'll discover how preparation, authenticity, and a clear narrative can make your media encounters not just successful, but also memorable.We don't hold back as we delve into the world of media disasters and their victims, often politicians like Nadine Dorries who have tripped over their messaging. From the pitfalls of inaccurate statements to the rigors of facing the tenacious questioning styles of journalists like Jeremy Paxman and Piers Morgan, we unearth the importance of composed and effective messaging. Guy offers a unique perspective on how to avoid these common pitfalls, keep your cool, and maintain control of the narrative.But there's more - we explore how to make interviews more engaging without sacrificing your key messages. Learn how to be interesting, how to use sound bites effectively, and why understanding your audience is key to a successful interview. We touch on the significance of body language and authenticity, and how the right balance can make your interviews more impactful. So lean in, listen, and let's navigate the challenging world of media interactions together with Guy Clapperton at the helm. Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

Ready to step into the world of unbranded products and discover how a brand was built in a commodity market? We are excited to bring you an interesting conversation with Jack Sutcliffe, founder of Power Sheds, a game-changing company that's shaking up the shed industry in the UK all from its heart in Yorkshire. Jack shares his fascinating journey of rising to the top of an unbranded market, how his company emerged as the 20th fastest-growing in the UK, and his plans for global domination. Hear about their unique modular design, their commitment to sustainability, and the marketing secrets behind their impressive success.How do you market a shed? Well, sit tight as we dive deeper into the interesting world of shed sales and the marketing strategies that work in this sector! Jack gives us a peek into how Power Sheds successfully uses PPC, social media, and even TV advertising to rake in sales. He sheds light on the importance of customer reviews, the value of an engaged community, and why prioritising customer service is pivotal. Will and I also ponder over intriguing decisions like launching in Germany before Ireland, and the exciting prospects of working with influencers in the right manner.  Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube

What does it take to become a successful freelancer in the world of digital marketing? Trust us, there's no one better to guide you through this journey than our insightful guest, Paul Sutton. With over 20 years of experience in the industry and a stint as a creative director, Paul has seen it all. From launching a brick-and-mortar store during the global financial crisis and transitioning into e-commerce, to founding a luxury pet accessories business, his journey is a treasure trove of real-life experiences and hard-earned lessons.But it's not all about work. Paul also candidly talks about the challenges of maintaining a work-life balance as a freelancer. The moment he took paternity leave and the unexpected response he got from his boss, is a story you wouldn't want to miss. As a thought leader, he also shares his trials and tribulations, and the importance of believing in oneself even when times get tough. Paul's top three tips for freelancers are gold nuggets of wisdom that every aspiring freelancer should hear.Finally, get ready to uncover the power of podcasting. Paul believes that starting a podcast was the best thing he's ever done for his business and he shares why. From the importance of promoting old episodes to the significance of consistently putting out new content, we explore the many facets of podcasting with Paul. This episode is a treasure trove of actionable takeaways, inspiring stories, and real-life experiences. So buckle up and join us as we embark on this fascinating journey with Paul Sutton. Is your strategy still right for 2026? Book a free 15-min discovery call to get tailored insights to boost your brand’s growth. 👉 [Book your call with Chris now] 👈 Subscribe to our Newsletter✒️Don't miss a hilarious mistake or free event by 👉 subscribing to our newsletter here. 👈 Follow Chris Norton:X, TikTok, LinkedInFollow Will Ockenden:LinkedInFollow The Show: TikTok, YouTube