In a lively discussion, key ingredients for content marketing success are unveiled. Setting clear goals and measuring outcomes are essential. Building audiences before selling anything is highlighted, with a focus on prioritizing promotion over production. The hosts advocate for the power of video podcasts and newsletters. They also discuss the impact of the evolving marketing landscape, emphasizing authenticity in messaging. Amusing banter about cinema adds a fun twist, alongside insights on managing tasks effectively.

Marketing growth is slowing, raising concerns of a potential recession driven by current political climates. AI is predicted to take over coding, but the hosts critique the overblown hype surrounding it. They discuss the rise of low-quality AI-generated content flooding platforms like YouTube and TikTok, and question the missteps of major brands like Unilever. Funding cuts to Voice of America highlight the challenges in global communication. Amidst these changes, the importance of authenticity in branding remains crucial.

The boys are back and the buys are heating up. Food-delivery startup Wonder purchased Tastemade, now boasting content creation to meal preparation to delivery all in one. Is more on the way? We think so. Spotify paid $5 billion dollars to indie creators last year. Is it better to go outside the labels than sign with a big agency? And Unilever ups their social media budget to 30 to 50 percent of total marketing budget...all for targeted local influencers. But did they forget about employees? Marketing winners and losers include Southwest Airlines and CMO tenure. Rants and raves include Substack and shadow AI. This week's links: Spotify Pays the Indies Are Big Music Labels Valuable? Wonder Acquires Tastemade Unilever Doubles Down on Influencers CMO Tenure Study Shadow AI Brands Are Launching Substacks ----- This week's sponsor: Whether you are swimming in content requests, struggling to reach Gen Z, or just need to do more with less - The 2025 Marketing Trend Report delivers real solutions you can use now. Go to http://clickhubspot.com/marketing to download it for free. ------- Liked this show? SUBSCRIBE to this podcast on Spotify, Apple, Google and more. Catch past episodes and show notes at ThisOldMarketing.com. Catch and subscribe to our NEW show on YouTube. NOTE: You can get captions there. Subscribe to Joe Pulizzi's Orangeletter and get two free downloads direct from Joe. Subscribe to Robert Rose's newsletter at Seventh Bear.

The discussion kicks off with the dramatic shift in the media landscape, highlighting opportunities for brands to act as trusted sources. They dive into the rise of AI in content creation, examining both its efficiency and shortcomings. The hosts tackle changing travel habits, emphasizing local experiences in a post-pandemic world. They reflect on the decline of traditional journalism, urging brands to step in, and critique Meta's AI initiatives aimed at enhancing advertising interactions, while also sharing personal anecdotes and current events.

The hosts dive into the fascinating world of AI content marketplaces, discussing how proprietary LLMs could revolutionize B2B marketing. They explore the transition from company creators to individual voices, raising intriguing questions about Substack's role as a new hub for smaller creators. Key insights from recent marketing events highlight the importance of differentiation and originality. The playful banter also touches on the challenges of blending content marketing with sales efforts, alongside a humorous take on quirky travel recommendations.

Exploring Reddit's troubling stock drop, the hosts discuss whether Google's algorithm could lead to an acquisition of the platform. They dive into the rise of episodic content and the importance of partnering with creators instead of going solo. There's also a humorous take on AI's potential to reshape the future of search, plus insights into the evolving landscape for content creators. Rants about the Associated Press and MLB's robo-umpires add spice to the conversation, while nostalgia for 80s music brings a light-hearted touch.

The discussion kicks off with lively Super Bowl highlights, including Kendrick Lamar's electrifying halftime show and record-breaking viewership. BuzzFeed's launch of BF Island sparks skepticism about its future. Marketing strategies are put under the microscope, especially regarding paywalls and the effectiveness of AI in streamlining campaigns. The hosts explore exciting trends like cannabis-infused beverages as alternatives to alcohol. Finally, they mull over the blending of content and music curation in today's digital landscape.

The hosts predict the Eagles versus Chiefs Super Bowl outcome with a mix of analysis and conspiracy theories. They dive into the high stakes of Super Bowl advertising, contemplating its costs and strategies while sharing nostalgic anecdotes. A thoughtful comparison between OpenAI’s deep research and Google’s offerings highlights the evolving role of AI in marketing. They also tackle the ethical dilemmas in meme coins linked to politics, stressing the need for transparency. The discussion blends humor and insight, making for an engaging listen.

DeepSeek makes waves in the AI sector with a more affordable model, raising questions about the industry's future. TikTok faces potential government favoritism amid acquisition discussions, while Substack incentivizes creators to switch platforms. Marketing highlights include Timothee Chalamet and TGL golf league. The hosts dive into AI's role in content creation, authenticity challenges, and the rise of misinformation, all while humorously reflecting on the evolving media landscape. The episode blends pop culture and marketing insights for an engaging listen.

The latest buzz revolves around TikTok's uncertain future and potential acquisitions, sparking lively debates. Instagram is pouring funds into creator incentives, attempting to up its game against TikTok. The Trust Barometer reveals insights into media trust, while predictions swirl around the next steps for META. The dynamic rivalry in the creator economy is palpable, as platforms wrestle for top talent. Entertaining rants about AI's future and the need for local journalism add depth to the discussion, making it a must-listen!