The Marketing Companion
Mark Schaefer
The world’s most entertaining marketing podcast! Mark Schaefer and a rotation of brilliant guest hosts provide new marketing insights and timely advice that help you navigate the future of digital business, The Marketing Companion is always fun, always interesting, and always on-target with ideas that will turn up your marketing intellect to an “11.”
We must disrupt marketing now
In this special episode, the legendary host of the Marketing Book podcast, Douglas Burdett, comes out of retirement to interview Mark Schaefer about his new book "Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World." From now on, "competent" doesn't cut it. The bots are coming but we still own crazy. This is a time to ignite the human fireworks of creativity if marketing professionals are to transcend the threat from artificial intelligence.
AI and cognitive decline
As we hurtle into the AI Era, there will be many unintended consequences, and one of them might be a cognitive decline. Early research shows that as we increasingly depend on AI for our thinking and decisions, our brains become lazy. What are the implications for education? Are we re-defining humanity or returning to a simpler time before information overload? Paul Roetzer and Mark Schaefer also discuss the DeepSeek outfall, Ai marketing fails, and more
The Most Human Company Wins
In an AI world, the need for human connection will be more profound than ever. Dana Malstaff and Mark Schaefer talk about new ideas to integrate a human connection into AI prompts, communities, and content strategies. Here are some truly unique ideas that will make you re-think how you connect with customers and audiences.
Big marketing ideas for 2025
Mark Schaefer and Mathew Sweezey pluck out a few big trends that have them excited for the new year. From the executive implications of AI to a focus on premium experiences, this is a fascinating exploration of what's coming next. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark’s insights every week, subc
The key to success isn't having the best answers. It's having the best questions
In this fun and thought-provoking show, Mark Schaefer and Jay Acunzo challenge each other with the best questions they could ask each other — and then dissect the beauty of the question. Amp up you content game by listening to this extraordinary debate! Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark’s in
The magic of NotebookLM
In this mind-bending episode, Mark Schaefer demonstrates why NotebookLM has taken the AI world by storm.
Three questions that will change your career
Keith Jennings talks about how Mark Schaefer's new book became a catalyst for his career reinvention. Mark and Keith discuss their history of personal reinvention and the three questions they use to judge whether they are stagnating on the job. This is Keith's final episode on the show and Mark announces two new co-hosts for the podcast's 14th season. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Bra
Protecting children in the digital world
Mark Schaefer and Paul Roetzer dissect several evolving AI-related developments, including the emerging emotional bond between children and AI bots, a humanoid fine artist, how AI is transforming education, and more.
An inside view of LinkedIn success
Mark Schaefer brings LinkedIn expert Richard Bliss onto the show. Richard covers basic LinkedIn strategy, the role of AI and bots, collaborative content, emerging role of video and more. This episode contains bonus Q&A content about LinkedIn newsletters, streaming video, and LinkedIn for newbies. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retr
Burning a community to the ground
Marketing visionary Dana Malstaff built one of the most successful communities on the planet. With 80,000 members, it was a revenue engine and an inspiration to her enthusiastic followers. Here why Dana decided to start over. This will be one of the most moving and inspiring stories of leadership and courage you'll hear.
The Making of a Signature Story
Every keynote speaker and content creator knows the value of that signature story – a tale that drives home a point with passion, insight, and a little drama. But how do you come up with these stories, and how do you craft them to serve you well in your marketing? Mark Schaefer and Jay Acunzo explore this topic in this new episode. You'll learn how each identifies, nurtures, and delivers their best stories. And you'll get to hear two of their favorite tales. Mark Schaefer is a strategy con
Influencer product launches
Ed Sheeran launched a new hot sauce in cooperation with Heinz. It makes so much sense. Ed doesn't have to harvest the tomatoes and make anything! Why aren't more bands launching products with influencers? While celebrity endorsements have been around for ages, giving stars a stake in an actual product has been rarer. Meanwhile, influencers are launching their own products – with or without the brands. Why don't brands get ahead of this? Mark Schaefer and Amanda Russell discuss this trend on th
The mystery of social objects
Mark Schaefer and Keith Jennings explore the role of social objects in marketing. They are everywhere; they drive word-of-mouth marketing, and this is one of the least-explored ideas in the arsenal. Learn how to use social objects for your own business and why this idea is indispensable in the AI Era. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing
Does AI Have a Marketing Problem?
AI is suffering from low adoption, lousy press, fear of job loss, and frankly a confused public. Is it time for AI to embark on some marketing of its own? That's just one of the subjects Mark Schaefer and Paul Roetzer discuss in this new episode of The Marketing Companion. Mark and Paul also cover the future of the AI copyright problem, the new "robber barons" breaking the law to make AI come alive, regulation, new marketing applications, and much more.
Brand Communities: State of the Nation
Mark Schaefer and Sara Wilson dive into the red-hot world of brand communities. Who is doing it well and why? What are the challenges? What is the role of influencers and what's next? We'll explore that and more in this new episode. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark’s insights every week, su
A search for personal peace
On this episode, Mark Schaefer and Mathew Sweezey talk about their search for personal peace within the corporate world and beyond. Both have been on a journey to live a life with less stress and more satisfaction, in sometimes divergent paths. They discuss financial freedom, impact of social media expectations, anxiety and depression, staying "centered," meditation, experimenting with psychedelics, and more. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the
How curiosity fuels marketing
Jay Acunzo contends in this episode that you don't need to be brilliant to be an effective content creator. You need to up the ante on curiosity. Curiosity is one of the most important "soft skills" of marketing. But can it be learned? Improved? Spread to a team? You'll find out on this new episode. Jay Acunzo is an author, speaker, and host of the podcast Unthinkable -- the show about marketers who trusted their intuition, not the best practices, and all the unconventional, refreshing things
Beyond imposter syndrome
It seems like imposter syndrome is referenced everywhere these days. It's such a common obstacle to success but there doesn't seem to be any end in sight. Mark Schaefer and Amanda Russell explore this provocative topic from their own life experiences. Amanda has had extensive "brain training" as an elite athlete while Mark explored a family of origin narrative to discover personal roadblocks. It's a new take on a very old and ubiquitous problem. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college
What business are you in? Really?
Mark Schaefer and Keith Jennings dive into one of the most complicated questions in the business world ... What business are you in? Deceptively simple, Devilishly complicated, this question has been an obsession for the greatest minds in marketing for decades. And this is a question that is more relevant than ever. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His
Philosophical Quandaries About AI
Mark Schaefer and Paule Roetzer of the Marketing AI Institute get out of the trenches for a moment and look at big questions facing marketers as AI barrels forward. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark’s insights every week, subcribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also offers classes in person
The future of social listening
Most brands depend on social listening platforms to gauge brand sentiment, consumer feedback and competitor activities. But what happens in a world where most customers don't want to be seen and heard? Sara Wilson is working on this problem and in this new episode, we explore new ideas about community, conversations and the critical aspects of consumer insight in an AI World. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOW
The Human side of AI
Mark Schaefer and Mathew Sweezy look at the foundational and enduring role of humans to create impact, loyalty, and relationships even as they are preoccupied with AI. Mark and Mathew explore the importance of events, communities, networking and loyalty. They also talk about the next big AI "unlock" for humans, the last human competitive advantage against AI, outcome-based content marketing, and Web3 farming. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the
Big ideas from the marketing retreat
In this special bonus episode of The Marketing Companion, Mark Schaefer and Daniel Nestle review some of the key learnings and highlights from The Uprising marketing retreat. The event featured acclaimed thought leaders on AI, content marketing, word of mouth, branding, and more. The intimate setting and group conversations created many a-ha moments. You can learn more about the Uprising retreat here.
When to stop and start your content projects
Mark Schaefer reveals his content anxiety – is he missing something by sticking with the same content formats for more than a decade? Jay Acunzo describes his strategy of starting and stopping shows and why it makes sense ... or not. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark’s insights every week, subc
Unraveling the global sports industry
Amanda Russell has a front and center seat in one of the biggest controversies in the history of sports. Millions of young athletes are losing their health, and in some cases their lives, to radical training programs. In this new episode, we look at the marketing of disruptive ideas in a fascinating discussion. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual m
A backlash against "purpose" in marketing
Too many companies are claiming to be beacons of social good and then not delivering. The result is a backlash against purpose-filled marketing, especially with young people. Mark Schaefer and Keith Jennings explore the current state of marketing and its role in our businesses and lives. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The
Getting started with AI for your business
The world of Ai overwhelming. How do grab ahold of something in this hurricane of daily developments and actually start something for your business? Mark Schaefer and Paul Roetzer cut through the overwhelm to offer practical steps. There is bonus content on this show that explores AGI, impact on marketing careers, and more.
The next generation of consumers is here
Marketing to Gen Z requires drops, collabs and customization as table stakes, nostalgic IP as a ticket to ubiquity, participatory game mechanics driving virality, content and commerce finally tying the knot, and billionaire influencers, to name a few. Mark Schaefer and Sara Wilson explore how the most successful brands navigate major shifts reshaping Gen Z lives, such as the rise of AI, digital campfire platforms and the collapse of traditional media channels. These brands all know how to garner
A new look at loyalty
Brand loyalty has been in decline for years. But Mathew Sweezy is heading up new technological innovations to build loyalty through experiences and games native to the digital lifestyle. Catch a glimpse of the future of innovation with Mat and Mark Schaefer. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark’s i
My biggest business mistakes
We all make mistakes but rarely talk about them. That changes today as Jay Acunzo and Mark Schaefer reveal their biggest flops, miscues, and embarrassments. A lot of lessons, a lot of fun ... you won't want to miss it! Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark’s insights every week, subcribe to his awar
Breaking all the rules of eCommerce
If it seems like Shein and Temu have taken over the world overnight, you would not be wrong. These leading retail brands came out of nowhere by seemingly breaking all the rules of marketing. Mark Schaefer and Amanda Russell break down the biggest revolution in retail since Amazon! Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Upris
From Paycheck to Purpose: Why I Stopped Growing My Business
Mark Schaefer explains a process that started 25 years ago to begin moving his business decisions from money to activities that brought joy. Keith Jennings compares this to a five-step career journey that starts with "don't mess up" to "meaningful work that brings joy." Where are you in the process? Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing ret
The freakiest podcast ever
In this new episode of The Marketing Companion, Mark Schaefer was faced with a crisis and he asked AI to solve it for him. You'll just have to hear it to believe it.
The creator-based commercial strategy
Creators are building brands, businesses, and loyal communities faster than the largest brands in the world. This is undoubtedly one of the most important trends of our lifetime, with vast implications for the future of marketing. Mark Schaefer and Sara Wilson team up to dissect this development and dissect research with vast implications for our commercial strategies. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belo
The business case for Personal GPTs
With OpenAi's revolutionary new offering, everyone has the ability to create custom applications -- just by typing commands in your own style. You can create whatever you can imagine! Everyone can be a coder now. Let's cut through the hype and explore the possibilities and constraints of this remarkable technology. Mark Schaefer hosts Paul Roetzer, founder of the Marketing AI Institute.
Six pillars of our marketing future
In an unprecedented solo performance, Mark Schaefer discusses his thoughts on where our marketing priorities will be in the next few years. is the metaverse still alive and kicking? Tune it to find out!
The beauty of messy marketing
Mark Schaefer and Amanda Russell explore the Pratfall Effect, a psychological model that says we gain trust and credibility through revealing our mistakes. In this fascinating episode, they look at case studies from Mark's dressing habits and a weird burger commercial, to cookies and Mark Zuckerberg's hoodie. Mistakes in marketing can work, but only within a certain context. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN,"
The generosity strategy
Can you base a marketing strategy on generosity? It's complex, exciting, and perhaps a key part of our future in business. Keith Jennings has studied the psychology and sociology of generosity and is convinced it should be a core strategy. Mark and Keith explore this idea and a multitude of angles when kindness counts most of all in this unusual episode! Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Br
Scaling human-powered marketing
As marketers sort through the new bag of AI magic tricks, it's important to stay centered on real value and the human connection at the center of marketing. In this episode, Mark Schaefer and Dennis Yu take a fresh look at the Human-Centered Marketing Manifesto and debate its relevance in the new digital landscape Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His ann
Gen Z Exposed
Sara Wilson and Mark Schaefer attended Z Con, the first conference fully dedicated to Gen Z -- up on by Gen Z leaders. It provided a fascinating glimpse into the minds and memes of a generation that punched above its weight when it comes to cultural influence. In this show you'll get an eye-popping look at what it takes to achieve business and brand success when it comes to this new generation of consumers. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the aut
The personal impact of AI
Mark Schaefer and Mathew Sweezey discuss how the AI revolution is impacting them as business leaders, entrepreneurs, and simply individuals trying to make their way in the world. Mark and Mathew discuss their current AI priorities, hacks, and the aspects of this development keeping them up at night. Where do they see the pitfalls and opportunities? Find out in this fascinating episode! Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books includ
The unified theory of content success
There are plenty of frameworks for successful content creation, but can ANYBODY breakthrough with a successful blog, podcast, or video series these days ... or does it take some "special sauce?" Mark Schaefer and Jay Acunzo debate the issue and don't always agree in this fascinating episode. Mark and Jay cover what it takes to create a defensible content property, the importance of being pissed off, why marketers create the worst content, and the importance of "awe" in the content world. Mar
The AI hierarchy of content
AI is moving quickly into every crevice of the marketing world but the impact on content has been immediate and profound. Where does AI matter, and where will humans persist and thrive? Mark Schaefer and Amanda Russell discuss a hierarchy of content in the AI world and the impact on the personal brand. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing
Master the Art of Business Narrative
Mark Schaefer and Ketih Jennings reveal the difference between story and narrative as it relates to business strategy. In this wide-ranging discussion, they unpack the role of narrative in branding and corporate influence, Eastern versus Western storytelling style, and more. This episode has special bonus content going deeper on this subject from RISE community members.
Public speaking in the marketing mix
Dennis Yu and Mark Schaefer explore why public speaking is becoming a more important in the marketing mix. Speaking builds authority and trust and can cut through the disinformation of our world. Mark and Dennis also reveal some of their public speaking highs and lows and reveal their secrets to battle onstage nerves. This episode is a fascinating and fun collection of tips and stories! Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker and the author of 10 books includi
The greatest content marketing experiment in history
This episode provides a behind-the-scenes look at the production of a singularly unique content marketing project. Mark Schaefer pulled together 35 subject matter experts from ten countries to create one of the most unique content experiments in history. Jump into this show to discover Mark Schaefer's biggest personal business risk. There was no going back when these experts decided to move forward with a project that would change their lives. Featuring Daniel Nestle, Frank Prendergast and Anna
The future of loyalty
"Open Loyalty" is an exciting new idea that transforms traditional notions of loyalty with cutting edge technology. Some of the biggest brands are experimenting with the idea. Let's learn about the future of loyalty with Mathew Sweezey and Mark Schaefer. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. Mathew Sweezey is the Co
What is the gist of YOU? Relevance in the AI world
In this era where AI is nipping at the heels of our marketing careers, there is no more important idea than defining how you fit into this new eco-system, or, ad Jay Acunzo puts it, "What is the gist of you?" Jay and Mark Schaefer take a deep dive into the meaning of brand and personal relevance in a world exploding with new creative output. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Ma
The luxury brand enigma
In this unique episode. Amanda Russell and Mark Schaefer offer an exclusive look at the extraordinary marketing challenges in the field of marketing. In a world where taste, scarcity, and exclusivity rule, the foundations of mass marketing are meaningless. How do luxury brands connect in a personal way that builds community? There are important lessons here for any marketer! Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN" a
What the “Whole Self” Movement Means to Marketers
Should we bring our "whole self" to the marketing profession? A powerful sociological trend is changing norms and expectations of our customers and employees. What are the advantages and disadvantages of vulnerability and self-disclosure? Mark Schaefer and Keith Jennings weigh in! Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker and the author of 10 books including "Belonging to the Brand" and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. Keith J
The new and now of social media marketing
Mark Schaefer and social media marketing expert Denis Yu dive into the most important trends including the true value of the blue check mark, the most powerful platforms right now, the future of TikTok, and the truth behind Facebook's foray into the metaverse. You'll also hear some hair-raising stories about information and privacy! Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker and the author of 10 books including "Marketing Rebellion" and "Belonging to the Brand."
AI and cultural impact
AI is everywhere and seemingly everything these days in the world of marketing. But now that we're getting through the magic trick phase of AI we're beginning to observe the powerful impact it could have on culture, community, and careers. Let's begin the discussion today, a discussion that is just starting in our world today.
Cracking the Gen Z Code
Sara Wilson has been studying Gen Z with a detective-like intensity and her new research report gives us a guide for connecting with them. We talk about their hideouts, their curious aesthetic, the role of "faux-stalgia," the importance of the absurd, and much more. Your head will spin with new insights and ideas in this conversation with Mark Schaefer. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN" and "Marketing Rebelli
Creativity and the true threat of AI
Mark Schaefer and Jay Acunzo take a deep dive into the utility and threat of AI platforms like ChatGPT. They explore the very nature of creativity and Jay explains the three foundational ideas and why AI falls short on two of them. Mark presents a dystopian future view of creativity, a scenario he says is probable in five to 10 years. Ultimately Mark and Jay agree that personal connection through content will determine success or failure. Mark describes three different types of content and why A
Nonprofit marketing insights
Mark Schaefer and nonprofit marketing authority Keith Jennings unwrap new ideas in nonprofit marketing, including a new way to segment audiences, why a focus on "product" enables better nonprofit marketing, and why nonprofits should consider community-based marketing.
My biggest accomplishment
In this show, Mark Schaefer and two friends, Samantha Stone and Chad Parizman, weave a story of his greatest professional accomplishment -- ten years in the making. It's not a book, it's not a famous speech. This is the story of 30 people who took a risk together. Samantha Stone is the founder and CEO of The Marketing Advisory Network. She is a teacher, consultant, marketing strategist, researcher, and the author of Unleash Possible. Chad Parizman has been a digital marketing strategist fo
Marketing that heals!
In this unique episode, Mark Schaefer talks about how viewing "community" through the lens of brand marketing is not a strategy that works, it is marketing that heals. In fact, community might be the greatest overlooked marketing opportunity in the history of marketing opportunities. The legendary Douglas Burdette serves as a special co-host for this episode. This episode includes a free chapter of Mark's new book "Belonging to the Brand." Douglas Burdette is the founder of Artillery Marketing a
The Tom Peters interview
Tom Peters was named as one of the top 10 business minds of this century and he just published an extraordinary new book. In this interview, he covers some surprising topics with typical boldness: His surprising take on "quiet quitting." "You don't have to like your employees, but you have to love them." Why great speakers act out of a sense of desperation about their message Why "business is community, period." Your job as a leader is to "hire well and promote." Why he is perpetually pissed of
Big marketing ideas of the year
Mark Schaefer and Mathew Sweezey talk about some of the landmark marketing events of 2022 and project what might be important in the coming year. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN" and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. Mathew Sweezey is the Co-Founder of Salesforces Web3 Studio where he helps Salesforce and their top customers transition into Web3. Mathew is also a best sell
ChatGPT changes marketing forever
In five days, one million people signed up for ChatGPT, a sophisticated artificual intelligence program now broadly available in a user-friendly interface. At a minimum this upends our approach to content, social media, research, and strategy. For many, it will be the end of their careers as they've known it. To help us figure out what's next, I turned to a revered tech analyst, Shelly Palmer. In this special episode, Shelly explains why he things ChatGPT "changes everything," the opportunities
Reimagining content marketing
Mark Schaefer and Jay Acunzo re-think content marketing from the ground up, contending that that the personal brand and their trusted audiences may drive strategy more than "helpful content." Instead of a content department, Mark and Jay think through what a "content culture" would look like that nurtures in-house creators, establishes a space for outside industry thought leaders, and assigns full-time creative duties at an executive level. This is a model that is already happening at media co
Building relationships in a fast-moving world
Amanda Russell relates an amazing story of how she cuts through the clutter to surround herself with powerful business relationships. This is a graduate level class about networking strategy and gaining attention of thought leaders in a busy world. Some themes: Deep research on potential connections Creating value that cuts through the noise Continual effort to build on momentum Establishing a mutually-beneficial relationship Focus on the individual, not the ask Prioritizing follow up and fo
Status drives marketing
Mark Schaefer and Keith Jennings explore a vastly overlooked aspect of marketing -- status. While this may seem like a taboo topic, seeking status drives almost every aspect of our lives from where we live to our art, music, and brand devotion. Mark and Keith connect the dots between status and key cultural trends, especially the shifts we are seeing from Gen Z.
New use cases for NFTs
NFTs have been in the news so much lately, and there's so much to learn! In this show, Mark Schaefer and Mathew Sweezey talk about NFTs as a tool to build community, loyalty, and brand identity through some exciting new use cases.
GenZ is hiding from us
Social listening platforms are meaningless when it comes to young people today. Gen Z is hiding out in their digital campfires on Fortnite, Roblox and other hard-to-reach places. Mark Schaefer and Sara Wilson discuss how this new generation of tastemakers are re-defining community, marketing, and how we reach our customers. Sara Wilson is a journalist-turned-social-marketer (former Facebook & Instagram) who works with brands, publications, and platforms like YouTube, Nike, Bumble, the New York
The next two years in marketing
Mark Schaefer and Dennis Yu get out their crystal balls to look at the biggest impacts on marketers in the next two years. Will it be the metaverse? NFTs? Influencer marketing? The hosts don't always agree on this but you'll gain a fascinating perspective on what's coming next!
Fresh take on the four Ps of marketing
Put down your smartphone, shut down the metaverse, and close TikTok for a moment to re-visit one of the most important marketing theories of all-time, the Four Ps of marketing. Mark Schaefer and Robbie Fitzwater provide a fresh, surprising, and perhaps controversial take on what the theory means to marketers today.
How to do self-promotion well
Mark Schaefer and Amanda Russell both have globally-recognized brands but took drastically different routes regarding their self-promotion strategies. In this show, the co-hosts discuss their pitfalls and challenges, the need to evolve strategies over time, the limits of self-disclosure, being "on-brand," over-sharing, and more.
Values-based marketing in transition
Have you considered how brand and marketing messaging evolve over time? Have you noticed a trend from product attributes to values? Mark Schaefer and Keith Jennings offer a new way to think about marketing in a changing world with implications for how you and your business can stand out in a noisy world.
Marketing jobs state of the market place
Digital marketing pioneer Dennis Yu and futurist Mark Schaefer debate the state of the marketing jobs market. The market is red hot but can it stay that way? What job skills are needed to compete now in and in the future? And how can we take advantage of technology to fill marketing jobs in creative new ways? It's a can't-miss show!
The solution to crappy customer service
Mark Schaefer and co-host Brooke Sellas talk about a ground-breaking new book that covers the essential online customer care strategies. They discuss the elevated emotional furor on the web today, the risk that comes with taking a stand, the impact of Web3 on customer service, and practical strategies for nurturing meaningful customer connections.
Web3 and the future of CRM
Mark Schaefer and Mathew Sweezey have a wide-ranging conversation exploring the truth and consequences of crypto winter, co-creating brands, NFTs as the future of CRM and much more. This is an amazing opportunity to peer into the mechanics of Web3 with an industry futurist and thought leader.
A case study in marketing community
Like many of us, Mark Masters struggled to build his marketing agency. His own marketing and advertising weren't creating momentum for his business. And he felt rather empty with the transitory, transactional nature of marketing. So he tried a bold experiment. He started a learning community that revolutionized his business. This is a bold discussion that may point to the future of marketing.
Consulting best practices
Mark Schaefer and Amanda Russell dive into their consulting practice secrets. How do they keep the clients coming in? When do you "fire" a customer? What is their best consulting advice? All this and more in this jam-packed episode.
A new marketing framework
Mark Schaefer and Keith Jennings discuss a creative new way to think about products and services that opens up new marketing strategy possibilities.
TikTok insider secrets
Dennis Yu just published the bestselling book on TikTok and had unprecedented access to the inner workings of the company. This is a fun show filled with surprises, insights, and practical ideas.
Conversation as marketing strategy
Mark Schaefer and Brooke Sellas explore the vital role of conversation in the marketing mix. How has the pandemic changed customer care? AI? The metaverse? How are marketing leaders grossly misunderstanding the connection between sales and marketing conversations? All this and more in this fascinating episode!
Connecting to customers in the metaverse and beyond
Traditional marketing is fracturing before our eyes. Web3, NFTs, and the metaverse will become the standard way of connecting to a new generation. Mathew Sweezey helps us navigate this bold new world and understand the implications of a post-cookie, post-SEO, post-content world.
Marketing a boring company
Is it possible to create a meaningful and effective digital presence for even boring companies? Commodity products? This is a surprising discussion between Mark Schaefer and Jay Acunzo that will push your brain in some new directions! Let's take a fresh look at marketing boring companies and products!
Influence Marketing: State of the Nation
Amanda Russell occupies the epicenter of influence marketing and in this show, we cover the dirty secrets, the corruption, and the true opportunity for influence marketing in the digital era. You'll also hear a world premiere announcement of a significant new development that could have a far-ranging impact on the marketing world!
Is persuasion possible?
This is an epic discussion between Mark Schaefer and Keith Jennings exploring 50 years of cognitive research and a conclusion that it is almost impossible to change a person's deeply-held beliefs. Certainly this is a massive marketing challenge. But at least under three conditions, change is possible. And in fact, we may be in the perfect storm of opportunity. Get out your pen and paper. You're going to be taking notes on this one!
Understanding Web3 and its impact on marketing
Marketing legend Sandy Carter joins the show to talk about the hottest topic in marketing: Web3. Is it over-hyped, the future of our field, or a little of both. Tune in to hear Mark Schaefer and Sandy sort it out.
Civil activism and woke marketing
In this revealing show, Mark Schaefer and Brooke Sellas look at the rapidly changing world of civil activism and "woke" movements on company culture and marketing strategy. We are in an unprecedented time when outside forces unrelated to our company and product can influence marketing strategy in unprecedented ways. This is an unmissable episode
15 Marketing Trends in 40 Minutes
Mark Schaefer and Mathew Sweezey apply a rapid-fire approach to marketing trend analysis in this fast-paced show. What's hot, what's not? Is it social media, content marketing, podcasts, web3? You won't want to miss this expert analysis.
Money and creativity
Mark Schaefer and Jay Acunzo break down their creative journeys and the relationship between money and creativity. This episode is full of unique insights as they talk about resources versus resourcefulness, the bane of money, the future of creativity, and the poetic inspiration of "Rocky."
The weirdest show ever
Influencer and educator Amanda Russell joins Mark to reveal how she has transcended tragedy to create a bold new personal future. As we close out another pandemic year we look back into our lives and reveal the lessons we learned about how to find light in the darkness, hope in despair and a survival mindset when your world seems to be falling apart. You’ve never heard an episode like this before.
Habits of successful marketing
Keith Jennings climbs aboard the Companion train to discuss the role of habit in marketing strategy, success, and results. It's a topic that has been overlooked for too long and this discussion shines a light on the role of habit in leadership, cultural change, and gains.
A million new marketing jobs
Entrepreneurial genius Dennis Yu steps into the co-host's seat to discuss his plan to create 1 million new marketing jobs. We also get into sales bros, Jake Paul, lousy LinkedIn pitches, robo-consulting, true personalization, and how "emotional AI" is going to be the biggest game-changer.
True community and the future of marketing
"Community" might be the most important and misunderstood marketing buzz word. Brooke Sellas joins Mark Schaefer to discuss community success and failure, the connection to true marketing opportunity, and its role in a crypto-enabled creator economy of the future.
How content works in the world today
Jay Acunzo and Mark Schaefer discuss how reach, resonance, and relevance are intertwined and evolving into something new in a post-SEO world. They show how expertise is now a commodity on the web unless you have the brand to go with it. They blow up the notion of monetizing an audience into some practical and rational ideas. This episode will re-frame your idea of how content works in the world today.
Influencers are everything
The is the first episode of a re-launch of The Marketing Companion featuring a discussion with Mathew Sweezey, marketing director for Salesforce. In this wide-ranging discussion, we cover trending news items from Facebook and TikTok and then go deep into how influencers are reinventing traditional retail, branding, eCommerce, and entertainment. This will reframe your view of the future of marketing.
A farewell to Brooke
In this new episode, Mark Schaefer has a big announcement about the future of the Marketing Companion. Mark and Brooke discuss the evolution of branding as well as trending news from Peloton and Facebook.
Twisting reality for marketing gain
In this show, Mark and Brooke look at a variety of AI innovations that could impact content marketers and consumers, including holograms and deep fakes. They also cover solutions to content overload, stunning new research on post-pandemic consumer trends, and Brooke's go-to karaoke song.
Today's new marketing opportunities
Mark Schaefer and Brooke Sellas discuss how technology is opening new "seams of opportunity" in marketing for senior living, virtual meetings, healthcare, real estate, insurance, and other industries.
AI gets real, maybe too real
What happens when AI can accurately replicate a conversation with a lost loved one? The personality of a business leader like Steve Jobs? The presence of Jesus or Gandhi? Does it become a tool for healing and great leadership, or will it become the next addiction? Mark and Brooke dissect a case study from the news in this surprising and fascinating discussion.
Megatrend: Live Commerce
One of the most interesting and important trends coming out of the pandemic is Live Commerce. Born in China and now spreading rapidly around the world, this trend combines influencers, streaming, entertainment, and impulse buying. Mark and Booke also discuss the strange influence of Peppa Pig, Instagram's pivot, and why young people are not going into sales.
Shifting content platforms
The wonderful world of marketing continues to evolve! What can we learn from the evolution of streaming services, a disturbing change at TikTok, and re-discovery of the written word (newsletters are HOT!). Plus, a tribute to Zelda.
Revenge travel and marketing at a crossroads
After a grueling year, pandemic-weary consumers are heading for the hills. Every vacation venue is over-booked. But what happens when this surge in demand meets an employment crisis? Mark and Brooke kick off the ninth season of The Marketing Companion with their analysis, plus a post-content marketing world, and a dating app for Gen Z.
Ten non-obvious market shifts
The pandemic has created an era of unintended consequences. In this episode, Mark and Brooke present 10 non-obvious emerging trends that could present new opportunities for marketers everywhere. In this exciting show, Mark challenges you to see the world through the lens of "fractures in the status quo."
What is the future of Snapchat
Snap seems to be making all the right moves. The stock is soaring and so is revenue. But their latest move is confusing. Or, is it bold and ground-breaking? Mark and Brooke debate the prospects for Snap as well as trends in emotion detection, Gen Z career choices, and Mark's issue with Resting Bitch Face.
Pandemic revolutionizes marketing employment
New research points to radical changes on the marketing job front. The good news is, jobs are growing. The bad news is, you might need to upgrade your skillset. Mark and Brooke explore the post-pandemic job market as well the fall-out from the digital ad apocalypse.
The intro takes over
Scott Monty and Tim Washer, creators of the famous Marketing Companion intros do a show takeover and provide their unique perspective on Mark Zuckerberg, influencers, TikTok, and beyond!
Problems with purpose-driven marketing
The hottest topic in marketing is the new emphasis on purpose-driven marketing. Consumers are rapidly organizing and activating online. Is this something every company should adopt, and how do you even begin? Mark Schaefer offers tangible advice. Mark and Brooke also cover the new emoji king and an update on the state of digital ads.
The essence of marketing with Tom Peters
Business legend Tom Peters leads today's show with a boatload of direct and entertaining advice about compassion, excellence, personal branding, extreme community, and his surprising final thoughts to marketing leaders of the world.
How to fix marketing with Raja Rajamannar
This special episode features Raja Rajamannar, the CMO of MasterCard. Raja contends that marketing is deeply flawed and heading for trouble. The answer lies in creating a new marketing mindset recognizing the indisputable consumer truths.
The most disruptive Gen Z trends
Mark and Brooke dissect some of the most interesting and surprising Gen Z trends. Absurd content? Pinterest fans? Hype houses? This and more in the new Marketing Companion episode!
The next big advertising innovation
Mark starts the show with a moving example about how marketing is about helping during this pandemic and Brooke introduces case studies illustrating the emerging power of LiDAR on marketing and advertising.
A special message from Mark
Mark Schaefer reflects on the fact that there is light at the end of this tunnel!
Unlocking business momentum
Mark and Brooke dive into the secrets of personal and marketing momentum and explain how a poor boy growing up in the slums of Philadelphia a century ago changed our view of the world forever.
Content marketing pressure
In this episode, Mark and Brooke use examples from YouTube and streaming TV to show how the pressure on content marketing is becoming relentless. This episode also features exclusive content from Martin Lindstrom and lessons from Mark's first sabbatical.
Can the internet unite people?
The new episode kicks off with Mark answering this question: "Can the internet be used to unite people?" and then the hosts cover some non-obvious trends emerging from the pandemic era.
The Most Human Podcast
In this unique episode, Mark and Brooke talk about the personal impact of 2020 on their lives, their most valuable lessons from a year gone wrong, and their hope for 2021.
Free content? A rant
On this episode, Mark rants about the destructive social media monetization model. Mark and Brooke also dissect the exploding world of online mental health and the fastest-growing job title in the land!
The marketer is an artist
The new show features interesting takes on media and soccer, an amazing pandemic pivot from a luxury brand, deer in compromising positions, and a discussion of the marketer as an artist.
Title: Virtual human influencers
Non-human, AI-generated influencers are now generating millions for their paid sponsors. They don't get sick, they don't complain and they are a significant marketing mega-trend.
Synthetic content is coming
Fake news is just the beginning. New technology will allow anyone to create Hollywood-quality effects and replicate humans with uncanny accuracy. What are the implications for society, business and marketing?
My shiny best self
In this special episode, Mark Schaefer discusses the stressful realities of the pandemic on his life and urges listeners to consider their historical narrative.
Comfort marketing
As the pandemic wears on, new customer wants and needs provide opportunities for marketers. Mark and Brooke look at the big word for the next two years: COMFORT.
Marketing dress for success
There is a small edit needed here. Brooke's audio weirdly cut out and then we resumed Marketing dress for success Has Zoom changed the rules for business decorum or should do the rules of "Dress for Success" still apply? Brooke and Mark debate this plus in-home drones and when the power of celebrity endorsements work TOO well!
The ideal marketing skills right now
With all the changes in the world, it's a good time to pause and reflect on the ideal skillset for a marketing career. How has the pandemic changed marketing careers? What is the best way to keep your skills current? Google and other companies saying that a college degree is not important in some tech careers any more. Will that trend move to marketing as well?
Initiative versus hustle
Is the hustle culture still relevant in a pandemic era? What does gerbil food and CBD oil have to do with anything? And why are people seeing more UFOs? Mark and Brooke tackle these questions and more on the Marketing Companion's 200th episode!
Creativity in a crisis
The pandemic has created an immense challenge for creatives who depend on live sets and collaborations. Mark and Brooke explore the ups and downs of the creative process in a crisis. When will the new TV content come back?
An inside marketing view from Adidas
In this special episode, Mark Schaefer talks with Adidas global brand communications director Fabio Tambosi. We explore how the pandemic is re-defining sports, the consumer behaviors that are changing forever, the eCommerce surge, how Adidas pulled off the world's biggest social media hack, and business lessons from LeBron James.
How the pandemic is changing lifestyles
Fashion, food, music, even love ... the pandemic is changing our lives in surprising ways -- with deep implications for marketers. You'll enjoy these insights into the emerging "cottage core" trend, how business can save music, and what happens to love in a crisis.
Sliding into DMs
Mark and Brooke go toe-to-toe in an episode that covers Instagram fetishes, LinkedIn spam, Facebook boycotts, influencers united, and the reason everyone loves Mark Schaefer's feet.
The kids are in charge
Mark and Brooke examine emerging research that may indicate key post-pandemic consumer changes. Among the insights in this episode is the indication that children have taken over the eCommerce function for the family. Other topics include comfort spending, commerce levels, BOPIS, and new digital advertising trends.
Rational marketing in a crisis
Mark and Brooke dissect an extraordinary piece of thought leadership from author Martin Lindstrom. Lindstrom creates a data-based view of the likely "new normal" and this episode explores the implications for the new "imbalances" and marketing professionals.
Hate is good for business
Mark and Brooke discuss an explosive revelation from the Facebook strategy playbook: The company is mindfully encouraging extremism, ignoring warnings from 2016 that the platform was contributing to hate and polarization. The hosts also discuss the emerging importance of corporate communities and the post-pandemic normal.
A revolution in customer conversations
Technology is creating incredible opportunities to connect with customers in meaningful new ways. Mark and Brooke look at some of the most exciting examples of how marketing and customer connection might be transformed.
The return of Mark
Mark Schaefer returns to the show after recovering from COVID-19 and relates three lessons of his experience, including an unexpected insight with long-term implications for the world. Mark and Brooke reflect on the impact on their own businesses and how they are being inspired during this crisis.
Creating Personal Customer Experiences With Context
Guest host Mathew Sweezey joins Brooke Sellas to talk about his new book, The Context Marketing Revolution. Together, we discuss the five context elements needed to create better customer experiences.
Remarkable Marketing During A Challenging Climate
Guest host Katie Robbert joins Brooke Sellas to discuss how brave brands stay relevant in times of crisis, including advice from other top marketing experts, a note on advertising, and which tools are making work-from-home easier.
The huge mega-trend show
Mark and Brooke dissect important new research to find some surprising shifts in the use of social media, smart speakers, podcasting consumers. We reveal the identity of listener number one million!
Embracing the chaos
Mark Schaefer shares his view of personal and business priorities in this time of extreme disruption and loss.
Would you sleep in your pub?
Mark and Brooke dissect a variety of trends including an experiential marketing plan that includes "full body towelettes," innovations from Twitter and LinkedIn, a discussion of slow tech adoption, and a personal reflection from Mark on his competition.
The millionth listener show
On the latest show, Mark and Brooke announce a contest to honor the one millionth download of The Marketing Companion podcast! Could YOU be the lucky winner? The hosts also cover big news from the podcasting world plus innovations coming from Twitter and Instagram.
Is there still a place for blogging?
New statistics show that blogging activity has slumped after a decade of continuous growth. Mark and Brooke examine the true story behind blogging in the content ecosystem and also discuss an integrated marketing trend, the marketing ideas consumers love most.
Are holograms the next great content form?
Need a celebrity for your next event? New technology may allow you to bring Elvis, Marilyn Monroe or Elvis to your next customer meeting. Mark and Brooke look at this new trend as well as LinkedIn events, and the impact of digital detox ion the advertising industry.
Machine learning for real-world marketers
Machine learning is entering the world of everyday marketing helping us streamline tasks and free up time for our employees and customers. The tech is getting simpler and less expensive. Mark and Brooke look at how this can be applied to our everyday marketing lives. They also cover an unexpected new retail trend and discuss tech optimism versus tech pessimism.
Ten years of social media with Jay Baer
Mark Schaefer and guest Jay Baer reminisce about their decade in social media. What were the hits, the misses, the things they love, the trends they regret? Lots of wisdom and insight jam-packed into this unmissable episode!
The big huge megatrend show
In this episode, Mark and Brooke discuss some surprising trends impacting marketing in the years to come, including a surprising take on a "culture in, brand out" movement that is percolating in the business world. And, the world is introduced to the "Nimbie"
Podcasts and one-way friendships
Mark and Brooke explore "parasocial" relationships that seem to be forming in the podcast space and how this might be useful to brands. They also look at an experiential marketing case study and marketing lessons from the streaming video wars. Meanwhile, Brooke debates a potential move to another closet.
Why are marketing jobs disappearing?
Forrester reports on a 20-year trend to eliminate top marketing positions. If marketing is central to the success of your company, what is going on and what can we do about it? Hosts Mark Schaefer and Brooke Sellas explore this vital topic and also explain why "anxiety" is the hottest social media trend.
The Fake News Episode
Mark and Brooke dissect some heavy issues surrounding the legal, ethical, and political issues surrounding social media news, ads and fact-checking. Practically, what can be done? The hosts also explode the "OK Boomer" craze, marketing leadership imperatives, and the 10 words that absolutely indicate fake news.
What will replace Facebook?
A few years ago, Mark Schaefer predicted that "Facebook would be the next Facebook," explaining that the company had the engineering, technical, and financial resources to build or buy their way into the next phase of social networking. Is that still the case? Brooke and Mark also examine developments at Amazon and an "office-less" office.
LESSONS Bonus: How to give your first big speech
In this final bonus episode, Mark Schaefer gives away another free chapter from his book LESSONS: Essays to help you embrace the chaos. In this installment, he provides his best tricks to help you get ready for an important presentation.
Key takeaways on the future of marketing
Host Mark Schaefer hosted a marketing retreat dedicated to exploring the future of marketing. Mark and Brooke report on some of the key takeaways from this exciting gathering of business thought leaders.
LESSONS Bonus: The one word that changed my life
In this exclusive bonus chapter from Mark Schaefer's book LESSONS, he tells a story about one his great mentors changed his life with a single word!
To survive a digital onslaught, add emotion
Many businesses are being disrupted by new digital entrants. Perhaps the only way to fight back is to add emotion. Mark and Brooke look at a new retailing case study, the end of likes, and a new marketing platform from Amazon.
LESSONS Bonus: Essential lessons from Peter Drucker
In this free audio chapter of Mark Schaefer's book LESSONS, Mark provides you exclusive insight from studying under management and marketing legend Peter Drucker
How do you stay relevant?
In this episode, Mark and Brooke discuss the vital topic of staying relevant in a fast-changing world. There are some surprising insights here as they tackle strategies on trends, skills, technology and even the impact of your personal appearance.
LESSONS Bonus: How to remain bot-proof
Use the same book cover graphic on all five episodes please. In this exclusive bonus content, Mark Schaefer provides a free chapter from his essential new book LESSONS: Essays to help you embrace the chaos, In this episode, Mark teaches us how to stay relevant in an age of disruption
In praise of non-conformity!
Marketers flock to whatever is popular until the ruin it. Mark Schaefer rants on this show that great marketing should be about non-conformity. He and Brooke Sellas also discuss an exciting new trend from Nike, an honest tech movement and the 10 Gen Z words you need to know now.
LESSONS bonus: How to dial up the grit
In this bonus episode, Mark Schaefer provides and essential chapter from his new book LESSONS: Essays to help you embrace the chaos. In this free chapter, mark explores how to function as a business person when you're dying inside.
The worst marketing move ever
Mark and Brooke reveal one of the worst marketing tactics in history, now being used by At&T and others to drive customers to their breaking point. Also, TikTok comes of age and a new book to help you embrace the chaos!
Video everywhere
This episode highlights a few marketing mega-trends including platform-agnostic video, using customer social media comments as marketing gold, and the three characteristics of genius.
A desperate crossroad for advertising
Whether you'e working for a big company or a small one, the advertising industry is getting crunched in all directions. Mark and Brooke look at trends in TV, digital, podcasts, TikTok, and gaming that will determine the future of advertising.
Influencer marketing as performance art
Some social media influencers have turned their lives into a dramatic, brand-fueled play. Nothing seems real, let alone authentic. What does that mean for marketers? Mark and Brooke also cover an attempt to measure company culture and a shocking look at the data your iPhone is broadcasting about you.
New considerations for digital ads and monetization
New monetization considerations at Facebook, with short video content, and Google maps comes to the forefront in this new show. And Mark and Brooke introduce a new video feature exploring the wonders of mukbang!
Impact of fake news on your marketing department
Samsung announced a new AI technology that allows somebody to create "deep fake" videos of individuals with a single photograph. As the ease of this technology improves and costs come down, every business is vulnerable to advanced forms of deception. How do you prepare for this now? Mark Schaefer and Brooke ("Brookie Cookie") Sellas take on this critical topic.
The true story of trolls
Trolls seem to ruin everything good about the web with their persistent, hate-filled ranting. But there is a fascinating psychology behind what they do and why. Mark Schaefer and Brooke Sellas examine this topic, as well as the case against influencers and a scientific proof of content shock. The hosts also consider the art of spam.
Marketing research out of reach?
The number of consumers refusing to participate in research has quadrupled since 1990, imperiling some marketing efforts. Mark and Brooke look at the problem, ding Instagram on a weird strategy, and agree with Amazon's tough stance on employee productivity. They also sing.
Can values-based marketing go too far?
Values-based marketing is a hot topic. Aligning with customer values is an important consideration but what happens when a company starts to act more like a non-profit? A fascinating discussion! Hosts Mark Schaefer and Brooke Sellas also demonstrate ASMR live, look at the retail apocalypse and show why Dell CCO Karen Quintos is a great marketing leader.
what is the future of social media?
Hosts Mark Schaefer and Brooke Sellas look at the mega-trends forming the future of social media. The future is hazy for marketers ready to place their bet. The show also looks at the economics of live events and the hottest (secret!) chat app for teens
A rant: social media lemmings
Hosts Mark Schaefer and Brooke Sellas cover highlights from Social Media Marketing World and Mark points out a lemming-like marketing trend. The show features BossMom Dana Malstaff and advice on monetizing a Facebook Group, plus using social for government surveillance.
Rebellion Papers: Word of mouth marketing
Ted Wright is a word of mouth marketing pioneer. On this final episode of the Rebellion Papers, Ted discusses why the world's oldest marketing idea has never been more important or relevant in the post-loyalty era.
Is it time to break-up the Facebook Monopoly?
A new co-host is welcomed onto the Marketing Companion to discuss the growing concern over digital monopolies. This has become a political issue in the U.S. that extends beyond party lines. Is the Facebook franchise doomed? The hosts also discuss a new book by Brian Solis and digital burn-out.
Saying goodbye to Tom
In this special episode, Mark Schaefer says farewell to Tom Webster as the long-time co-host of The Marketing Companion and announces plans for a re-boot of the podcast.
Rebellion Papers: Advertising without the ads
In this limited edition series, Mark Schaefer introduces the innovative marketers featured in his book "Marketing Rebellion." Marc Simons is one of the founders of Giant Spoon, a path-finding agency creating fun and immersive customer experiences. He's leading the way with this controversial new marketing approach.
A deep dive on social media realities
In this show, Mark and Tom look at some eye-popping new data covering the social media landscape. For an up-to-the-minute glimpse of the social web, you won't want to miss this show!
Rebellion Papers: Reimagining marketing in human terms
In this limited edition series, Mark Schaefer introduces two of the innovative marketers featured in his book "Marketing Rebellion." Steve Rayson, founder of BuzzSumo, contends that the biggest problem in our field is the over-use of technology and automation. Marketing icon Philip Kotler urges marketers to adopt a more human-centric approach that emphasizes emotion and experiences.
The most valuable marketing skills
Mark and Tom look at surprising new data on hard-to-find marketing skills, the idea of creating a career as a social media influencer, and the myth of employee advocacy.
Rebellion Papers: Co-creating the customer journey
In this limited edition series, Mark Schaefer introduces some of the innovative marketers featured in his book "Marketing Rebellion." Megan Conley is a ground-breaking agency founder who insists that tomorrow's customer journeys will be co-created with the involvement of our customers.
The unintended consequences of tech
Too many times companies are saying "whoops" after introducing new ideas. Testing new ideas becomes complicated when the sample size has to be large and consumers don't want to be treated like lab rats. Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster unpack this vital issue. They also discuss the opportunity to turn Marketing Companion into a television series. Intro music credits: Heartwarming by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/)
Rebellion Papers: Marketing Anthropologist Martin Lindstrom
In this limited edition series, Mark Schaefer introduces some of the innovative marketers featured in his book "Marketing Rebellion." Martin Lindstrom is a fascinating anthropologist who plops himself into the middle of homes and businesses to find the consumer secrets others miss. He is leading the way in a new way to view marketing leadership.
A Marketing Rebellion has begun
How do you win in a post-loyalty, post-sales funnel, post-advertising world? Mark Schaefer discusses the genesis of his new book "Marketing Rebellion" with Tom Webster and reveals some exciting bonus content coming to Marketing Companion fans.
Marketing's most inspiring leaders
When it comes to marketing and business leaders, Kerry Gorgone has talked to some of the best through her Marketing Smarts podcast. In this special episode of The Marketing Companion, Mark and Kerry discuss the leaders and marketing wisdom that have inspired her the most over the years.
The Alternatives to Advertising
The advertising industry is convulsing as traditional channels dry up. This episode explores how "pipelines" are effortlessly feeding products into consumer households, why young influencers are ruling the roost and how advertising's brightest light is destroying new publishing models. Mark and Tom hand our their annual "wurst" awards.
Why sentiment analysis is unreliable
In this episode, Mark and Tom dissect research indicating severe reliability problems with popular sentiment analysis algorithms. They also discuss re-branding strategy in the news, new evidence of mis-trust in corporate brands and Alexa's growing dominance.
Three trends pointing to marketing change ahead
Mark and Tom talk about why Microsoft's president is calling for immediate legislation on some new technology, why ad agencies are losing business to consulting firms and why "the show" may be the most important consideration to your marketing plan. It all points to changes on the marketing landscape.
The AI marketing impact
Marketers have too little time and too much data. Why isn't AI making a positive impact on data analysis yet? How will new opportunities with smart speakers integrate with AI and what does the artificial intelligence revolution mean for business education? Nipsey makes a surprise appearance to show off new human-like qualities.
The economics of professionalism
Hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster explain how a strong economy impacts professional behavior, why streaming television is heading for a fall-out and how Facebook's first entry into hardware tips the creepy scale
Realities of the Entrepreneurial Journey
Host Mark Schaefer reflects on lesson learned in his ten years as an entrepreneur, and Tom Webster dissects why there are no new social media channels emerging.
The Triumph of Medium
Mark and Tom explain why you should be excited by the promise of Medium, nervous about the WSJ coverage of internal Google politics, and applauding an insurance company for doing something crazy cool.
Who rules the internet?
Hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster tackle three huge topics: New regulations trying to get internet companies to conform globally to one country's standards, political stands in the marketing mix, and Apple's third act. Also, there is a surprise performance from Nipsey the smart speaker.
Marketing lessons from KISS, Paula Abdul and an actor we don't remember
In this episode Mark and Tom talk about some of their favorite marketing stories and lessons on the marketing genius of KISS, why intrapreneurship won't work, and how singer Tom Jones is a master networker.
Hidden opportunities for launching successful new podcasts
In this episode, Mark and Tom review new research that points to vast opportunities in the podcast world. This show goes deep into podcasting reality and unearths data-driven insights all podcasters need to consider to develop and grow their shows.
Emotional connection and the modern brand
Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster discuss the growing challenge of establishing emotional connection in a world of declining loyalty and point to an amazing success at Spotify, the rise of anger on Facebook, and a revolution at LinkedIn. They also vanquish Mercury Retrograde.
Is the future of retailing a store without sales?
The retail industry has been in a state of upheaval for decades. Is a store that sells no goods the future? Tom Webster and Mark Schaefer think so, and they discuss it in this new episode of The Marketing Companion. Listen in as they also debate what will happen when digital ad prices keep rising, a threat to marketing nobody's really discussing, and their effort to make The Marketing Companion the world's most hipster podcast.
Why customers really don't want to engage with your brand
Hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster dissect several big new ideas, including the role of customer engagement in digital transformation, Facebook's big new opportunity for community leaders, and a content marketing fail from GE (or, is it?). Plus, Tom riffs on cows.
A special fifth anniversary show
Against all odds, Mark and Tom have completed five years of podcasting together. In this episode, the hosts reflect on how they got started, how the program has changed and what's next for The Marketing Companion faithful.
Our favorite marketing books
In this episode, hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster review some of their favorite recent marketing books, including new releases from Bernadette Jiwa and Neen James.
There's no escaping Facebook
Hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster examine several current marketing issues, including a stroke of brilliance from Amazon, Google culture, and the unexpected dominance of Facebook in the surging private messaging space.
The brand stand: Mixing politics, social good and sales
In this episode, hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster talk about a new Schaefer book in the works, AI, hacking, and how companies are being forced to take a social, and even political, stand in the world today. This trend is undeniable, but flies in the face of classical economics. how does a marketer sort it out?
The New Ethics of Marketing
There are a number of ethical issues emerging as technology allows us to connect to consumers in new ways. Just because we can, should we? In this episode, hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster look at "addiction" as a goal, the cultural implications of AI, and new research on the time it takes to become a friend. And oh yes, to celebrate a milestone, they introduce the world's first audio infographic!
Back to the future: What's old is new again in marketing
Hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster reflect on the hot topics they covered five years ago and discuss the relevancy of influence marketing (and Klout), Google Glass, Twitter strategy and more. And they bring out a retro look at Google Pants!
Spinning social media in a new direction
Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster discuss revealing new research that may indicate a tipping point for social media, video, podcasts and smart speakers like Alexa and Google Home.
Is social media marketing still a thing?
Social media marketing has been the hottest marketing concept for the last 10 years. Is it losing steam, or just taking off? In this episode, hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster look at the data and reveal new perspectives on where social media fits in the marketing mix. The fellas also reveal a new premium service to sell fake followers so you can become an influencer in record time!
Are we at the end of experiential marketing or the beginning?
How important is it to create customer experiences that lead to awareness and loyalty? In this episode, Mark and Tom explore dramatic trends impacting any strategy involving customer experience. They also dive into stupid agency tricks and a wishlist for our favorite tech leaders. And Tom issues an apology for mis-casting Mark!
Influencers gone world, Facebook changes, and "Tech-lash"
What is "Tech-lash?" Mark and Tom cover a variety of subjects in this fast-paced show. They cover the Facebook changes, an explosive report on influence marketing, the fastest-growing tech gadget (surprise!) and new rumbles about a backlash against the largest tech companies.
Staying relevant in a marketing career
Have you ever wanted to learn what Mark and Tom actually do for a living? In this unusual episode Mark and Tom open the curtains and talk about their careers -- How they got to where they are today and how they intend to remain relevant for the next level. A fascinating discussion about relevance in the fast-changing digital age!
The marketing agency of the future
Special guest Mitch Joel, president of Mirum, discusses the challenges of the modern marketing agency. What are the implications of higher levels of competition, the trend toward bringing work in-house, the impact of AI and other new technologies, and the emerging eCommerce on-ramps? You won't want to miss this fascinating discussion!
Cocooning consumers and more amazing mega-trends
New research from Ford shows that consumers are polarized, energized and a bit weirded out by what marketing is up to these days. Hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster take a look at this new report and discuss the implications for business leaders. And they have a casting call for "Marketing Companion: The Movie." Who will play Mark?
Are books the ultimate content marketing channel?
How could writing a book help you establish thought leadership, open new opportunities, and grow your business? Hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster explore these issues and open the Marketing Companion Holiday Catalogue for exciting gift "ideas."
Is Facebook the most evil company?
Five years ago I predicted that Facebook would become the most evil company on earth. The claim was tongue-in-cheek, but the logic was solid: The "raw material" that Facebook uses to build its wealth is our personal information. As a public company, Facebook has a mandate to grow its profits every quarter, without exception, without end. At some point, to meet that relentless financial goal, Facebook will have to take greater and greater risks in both collecting our personal information and mon
Three touchy subjects
On the new episode of The Marketing Companion, Tom Webster and I open up a discussion on three touchy issues in the digital realm. YouTube's deplorable algorithm: The New York Times reported that evil people have been slipping violent cartoon knock-offs into the YouTube Kids channel. In this case, relying on an algorithm to vet children's programming is unacceptable. This is a problem that is not difficult to solve but it appears to us like greed and laziness is driving the wrong behaviors. We m
The Humor Show
One of my great marketing heroes is Tom Fishburne. Not only is he a brilliant innovator and marketer, he is THE WORLD-FAMOUS MARKETOONIST: On the new episode of The Marketing Companion, Tom Webster and I had the great fun and pleasure of interviewing Tom about humor in marketing including ... The "slow revelation" that made him realize humor could be a key part of his marketing future The connection between "story" and humor in corporate communications The process companies go through to add h
The end of lazy marketing
I had an opportunity to attend the outstanding Marketing Profs B2B Forum and witness a truly tour-de-force speech by my friend and podcast co-host Tom Webster. Although we had mentioned this talk in a previous podcast episode, I had not seen Tom's presentation and I found his insights to be remarkable and very relevant to marketing today. I thought our Marketing Companion fans needed to hear some of those insights. Using lessons from his political research, Tom makes the case that you can't win
Marketing dominance through content curation
There's a lot of pressure to create content today. Epic, authentic, viral content. But perhaps the key to content success is not necessarily through originality, but through creating a wise curated content stream that helps people save time and money. Most industries have at least one go-to newsletter of curated business highlights. If your industry doesn't have that, maybe it's a golden opportunity. I've seen people create curated content in pharma, tech, defense, and entertainment. Many have g
The politics of content marketing
In this new episode of The Marketing Companion, Tom Webster and I cover some of the highlights of the 2017 Content Marketing World. It was the first conference Tom and I attended together for some time so it was a good opportunity to compare notes on the content marketing spectacular. We discuss: Why Tom faced a nearly empty room for his politics-related talk Why Mark thinks "loyalty" is a fading marketing idea Content Marketing World hits and misses And as a bonus, we announce new plans for Co
Advertising industry in a meltdown
It seems like everywhere you look the news is bad for the ad industry. In just the last few weeks, the news has reported ... The stock value for many large agencies is in decline as company billings fall. Traditional ad impressions are down almost everywhere as newspapers, radio, and magazines struggle to survive. Many of their customers -- the big CPG brands -- are cutting ad spending as their most valuable products struggle to be relevant to today's digital consumers. Ad blocking continues to
Personal marketing successes and failures
In this very personal episode of The Marketing Companion, hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster reveal their own best marketing successes and failures. Learn why desperation may be a key to success, how money is made in the margins, and why a dial-up internet connection destroyed a great business. Mark and Tom also announce plans for the first human-powered self-driving vehicle!
Amazon's new social network primed for success?
Starting a new social network is a perilous prospect. The battlefield is littered with companies that had big ideas and little results ... Meerkat Ello Path Google+ It's a tricky business. A new social platform needs to solve a unique customer problem or find an under-served niche and then avoid assassination by Facebook (by having intellectual property and a huge war chest to protect it). It has been so difficult breaking into the pantheon of elite social networks that in the past five years
A new marketing channel emerges
Google search goes away? You might think this title is ridiculous. Maybe even sensational. But traditional web search is changing dramatically and it's a real concern for marketers and traditional SEO. Let me explain ... As consumers, we depend on a reliable list of products and references from Google to get through our daily lives, find the right dress, or answer a question in an argument. Google now processes 40,000 search inquiries every second of the day! On the business side, we want to be
Influencer Marketing Grows Up
Back in 2010, I wrote one of the most fun and fascinating blog posts of my life. A new trend was coming into view, led by a company called Klout. By analyzing millions of bits of social media data and the reactions the posts caused, the company proclaimed it could estimate your social media influence. At the time, it was a revolutionary idea. My post, which projected some of the implications of such an application, seemed to rock the social media world. It was shared more than 2,000 times and at
Should you believe the "Meeker Report?"
Like many digital marketers, I look forward to the epic internet trends report produced each year by venture capital firm Kleiner Perkins. Better known as "The Meeker Report," the epic slide deck is an exhaustive summary of the relevant trends we need to be considering for our companies as the digital world moves forward. Over the past few years, Tom Webster and I have discussed this report on our podcast, The Marketing Companion, and it has always been one of my favorite episodes of the year. H
Achieving escape velocity with your marketing message
My Marketing Companion co-host Tom Webster told me that within a few weeks, three of his clients all came to him with the same question: How do we get our content discovered? The answer you typically hear in our space is "create quality content and it will rise to the top" but that does not work any more. Perhaps it never has. There are content discovery algorithms and bots working behind the scenes that hold us in our place. The digital world is presented to us in an ever-shrinking filter. Tom
Artificial intelligence, real marketing
The inevitability of a business world dominated by artificial intelligence seems to be the headline of the day, and yet the notion for many marketers may seem distant and unreal. On our Marketing Companion podcast, Tom Webster and I have been toying with this subject for years and decided it was time to devote a full-blown episode to the topic. Artificial intelligence and marketing -- what's real, what's now, what's ahead? Our latest episode is a far-ranging discussion that gets into: Customer
The content monetization minefield
For decades, I've been a big fan of the sports channel ESPN. They have a great brand -- serious about sports, but not too serious about themselves. Their bold style of storytelling went far beyond the cable TV channel to web, print, apps, satellite radio, social media, and podcasts. They created exceptional content, bought into premium sports events, and seemed to be nurturing their brand as effectively as any company. From a content standpoint, they seemed to be doing everything right in the di
The real data behind content marketing secrets
This headline is a bit misleading. In fact, you will probably receive far more than 20 incredible insights from our Marketing Companion conversation with BuzzSumo founder Steve Rayson. The episode posted a few days ago and we have already received more comments on this conversation than any other episode. Arguably, Steve Rayson analyzes more content than any other person in the world -- billions of pieces in all. Tom Webster and I tap into his years of experience and I think you'll find some of
Your content: When is it time to pivot or quit?
I recently had a conversation with pioneering blogger Chris Brogan and he mentioned that he had ended his latest podcast series and had begun a new one. "I just thought it was time to create something new," he said. This seems like such a simple idea, and yet it set my wheels spinning. Creating content means building equity in an audience and a body of work. What would make you decide to walk away from that? My promise to you on this blog is that it will always be relevant, interesting, timely,
A special 100th episode
In 2012, I escaped the crazy crowds of SXSW to have dinner with my friend Tom Webster and his wife Tamsen. We had a magical evening and at the end of our time together I commented that I wish we had recorded the conversation. A lot of people would have loved to hear that debate! A year later, I was thinking about starting a podcast. It was a difficult decision because I didn't want to begin anything that would distract me from creating great content on the blog. I decided I needed a podcasting p
The audio revolution and the opportunity for smart marketers
Is social media turning into a three-horse race? New research by Edison indicates that Americans are starting to migrate to three big social media platforms, while usage and preference is flattening out on secondary platforms. In this scintillating, 99th episode of The Marketing Companion, Tom Webster reveals a study 2o years in the making: The Infinite Dial. Some of the highlights of this show: The social media shake-out: Why Snapchat will last and Twitter is in trouble Emergence of smart spea
New media influencers are changing marketing forever
If you've been following popular culture at all, you've probably learned by now of the downfall (at least temporarily) of YouTube's greatest star, PewDie Pie. PewDiePie, a Swedish gamer and humorist, is the first person alive to hit 10 billion views on YouTube. He pulls in more money each year than most Hollywood movie stars and he's the epicenter of YouTube culture. And then it all went south. The Wall Street Journal documented at least nine of his videos that had anti-Semitic messages. Two in
Fame, fortune and the art of becoming known
Three years ago, I was working on what would be the biggest consulting contract of my career. It was a potential deal with a U.S. government agency and as part of the bidding process I had to be interviewed by their senior procurement professionals via Skype. It was a bit intimidating. The stakes were high and I was facing a table full of people I didn't know. I started to introduce myself but two sentences into my presentation, the procurement director interrupted me. "Oh Mr. Schaefer, we all k
What does digital transformation mean to marketing?
Is your head spinning over the prospect of digital transformation and marketing? Certainly the change ahead might seem dizzying. Social media and social selling, Big Data and analytics, new listening platforms, and artificial intelligence are just a few of the ideas gaining momentum. How does a marketing leader manage through this level of change? In this new episode of The Marketing Companion, Tom Webster and I interview Bryan E. Jones, VP North America Commercial Marketing for Dell Technologie
Is the Age of Apple over?
The polish is off the Apple. One tech commentator said there was something missing from the recent Consumer Electronics Show: Nobody was saying they were the "next Apple of ..." Paypal founder Peter Thiel told the New York Times that the age of Apple is over. Provocative? Sensational? Or is there a kernel of truth there? The company seems to be focusing on incremental change instead of bold new life-changing tech. They are falling behind in AI and smart speakers. IOS-based phone sales have been
Streamification, Smart speakers and other marketing changes to watch
I've been in marketing more than 30 years and I think we're facing the period of greatest change in my experience, probably the greatest period of change in the history of marketing. In this new episode of The Marketing Companion, Tom Webster and explore the bold ideas that will have a profound impact on marketers including smart speakers, artificial intelligence, and the "streamification" of content. You won't want to miss this episode. We also get into our new app SlapChat. You need it. We all
The Internet of Things and the future of marketing
No list of hot technology trends is complete without a mention of the Internet of Things (IoT). But as we go into a new year, how does this become real to us as marketers? How is IoT going to show up in our daily worklife? Tom Webster and I thought this would be a fascinating topic for an episode of our podcast but frankly the subject is over our heads! Not that this has stopped us before ... but we decided to try something new and actually get some expert advice on this important topic. On this
Conversational marketing and the gig economy
In the next episode of The Marketing Companion Tom Webster and I explore three rich and timely topics: The "Gig economy" -- The ability to match buyers and sellers in order to monetize incremental time has revolutionized the economy. As much as 2 percent of the U.S. economy may be gig-based. But there is a seedy underbelly to this trend. Conversational marketing -- This is beyond the social media mantra of "conversation." New technology like bots enable one-on-one conversations to develop enhan
Understanding the US election and its implications
America has been through a tumultuous election cycle, perhaps the strangest and most divisive time in the country's political history. What does it all mean? Sure, a lot has been written about this, but it's rare to get a behind-the-scenes glimpse from a person who was in the very heart of the process. This week in our new Marketing Companion episode, Tom Webster provides extraordinary insight into what happened on election night and what it means to those of us in marketing. What happened to t
The content dominance strategy
I want to share a statistic that kind of blew my mind. In 2011, about 20 percent of non-game Internet revenue came from content subscriptions (to stuff like Hulu, Spotify, Amazon Prime, and Netflix). The bulk of the revenue has historically derived from advertising. Today, that number has completely flopped with subscription-based revenue at 80 percent -- in just five years! And content-based subscriptions will account for more than half of all internet consumer media growth in the next five yea
The marketing skills you need to succeed today
There has been nothing short of an intense debate about the marketing skills needed for career success today. Gurus like Gary Vaynerchuk have decried college educations, claiming they are a waste of time and money. In an excellent and thought-provoking post, the brilliant Christopher Penn scolds the profession for falling behind, and warns that we need to keep up with topics such as cloud computing, mobile development, and integration software to be relevant. Unilever CMO Keith Weed claims ther
The Elements of Persuasion
We talk a lot about influence, but what is the true goal of influencing? Persuading. While I was far afield in South America for the past few weeks, Tom's wife Tamsen sat in for me in this episode of The Marketing Companion. Tom and Tamsen talk about the relationship between influence and persuasion, and what it really takes to not only make an impact, but to change behavior. Persuasion has a number of elements, and you can't truly persuade without understanding your audience -- not just the sto
Courageous marketing
In our latest edition of The Marketing Companion podcast, Tom Webster and I explore a couple of fascinating topics. The first is that marketers seems undeterred by the fact that most corporate content is not working, at least in a measurable way. Various research reveals that content marketing is not seen as effective by a majority of marketers, yet content creation budgets continue to rise dramatically. In our podcast, Tom Webster described content marketing as "an uphill slog" with the value o
Content quantity wins out over quality
It's not often that you see a blog post that makes you think, discuss, and maybe even a little sick to your stomach but that's what Steve Rayson of BuzzSumo achieved with his controversial post "The Future is More Content." Steve has put out some thorough, well-developed thought leadership pieces over the years and this post is among his finest because he brings up an ugly topic we choose to ignore -- that swarming the web with content -- maybe even crappy content -- is a legitimate strategy. It
The enigma of critical thinking and marketing today
I received a pretty big shock recently, a discovery that made me re-think who I am and what I know. For many years I have enjoyed digging into my family history. For many of us in the U.S. -- nearly all of us immigrants -- our family tree has tangled roots and uncovering where we come from can be an obsession. Most of the Irish side of my family came over during the potato famine of the mid-1800s. Some of my German ancestors where actually craftsmen in Philadelphia during the Revolutionary War.
The importance of being known
I used to be a big shot. In my corporate marketing days, I was among the top 1 percent on the company organizational chart. I was awarded seven patents and I earned two masters degrees. I closed the biggest deal in the company's history, worth more than $5 billion in sales. I earned a big salary and managed a highly-visible team of global all-stars. I had received two Chairman’s Awards for outstanding achievement, a stock award that was the highest recognition in my company. As far as I know, I
Why Content Shock is coming to an ad near you
If you read between the lines, Facebook just told us it’s going to become a lot more expensive to be in marketing soon. In their recent blockbuster earnings announcement, CFO Dave Wehner said something interesting: Facebook’s ad load, or the total number of ads the company can show to each user, will be a "relative non-factor for predicting Facebook’s future revenue growth starting this time next year." Translation: Facebook is about to max out on the number of ads it can show users inside its p
Should Facebook be regulated?
Should children be exposed to graphic violence on Facebook without your knowledge and consent? Is it a widely-available broadcast channel like TV that should be regulated, or is it something different? The social web has created amazing opportunities to learn, discover, connect, and have fun. But with the advent of innovations like live streaming video, horrifying images of terror and violence are becoming a more common staple of our news feed. Facebook's "terror policy" is pretty weak. In fact,
The new psychology of content consumption
Is the psychology of content consumption changing? That's the central idea behind an amazing new discussion featured on The Marketing Companion podcast. Have you tried our free Internet radio program yet? You'll have to hear this podcast to believe it -- the first order of business is the introduction of the world's first audio emojis! But then we get serious. Tom Webster and I get into some discussions that are guaranteed to get you thinking about the nature of content and content consumption
Marketing mega-trends
Each year, Mary Meeker compiles a wide-ranging report on the top Internet trends on behalf of venture capitalist firm KPCB. The report goes on for 213 pages. And do you have time for that? No! That's why Tom Webster and I distilled the report into the profound marketing trends that will have the biggest impact on you. Some of the ideas we cover in our new podcast are: Why "viral" is more is more viral that ever and how Facebook Live will become the ultimate in reality TV and a revolution in jou
The greatest social media opportunity? You might be surprised!
We are rapidly moving toward an ad-free world, which is kind of scary because the Internet really, really, really depends on ads. Ad blocking increased by 94 percent between 2015 and 2016. About one-third of all smartphone owners block the ads that make all that great free content possible. I probably consume more content than ever. But I do it though Netflix, through Sirius radio, through Spotify. I don't personally use an ad blocker ... but I don't see ads, either. Fortunately, there is a new
Cutting through the marketing noise
In our new episode of The Marketing Companion, Tom Webster and I explore a theme of marketing challenges to rise above the increasing noise levels to connect to our customers. It's a difficult proposition and getting harder all the time. Some of the topics in this jam-packed 30 minutes of marvelous audio content include: Rising losses from ad-blocking are pushing marketing dollars into new places. An unlikely source of content innovation -- printed magazines and books. Innovations to merge game
A modern marketing wish list
In the latest episode of The Marketing Companion podcast, Tom Webster and I reveal our wishlist of what we would like to see "more of" and "less of" on the web. Among the topics we explore: Brand skepticism and brand bullying -- It seems like any time a company authentically tries to be "human" on the web it attracts an attack. If we want brands to show up in a more human way, shouldn't we reward them? Evangelism -- This word is a red flag for me. When anybody describes themselves as an evangeli
The epic switch from social networks to private networks
Over the past few months I've seen a few trends coming together but I'm not sure I grasped the significance of what's happening until I heard a recent comment from my 16-year-old nephew. Here is what I have seen occurring: WhatsApp has rapidly become the biggest messaging service in the world with more than a billion users. Snapchat is a juggernaut with the 18-24 age group, now earning more daily check-ins than Facebook. The company founder insists it is “not a social network.” Facebook is the
Facebook chases down Snapchat
So much going on today! So many changes to consider. Facebook and Snapchat and content wars. OH MY! In this new episode of The Marketing Companion Tom Webster and I consider some EPIZOODIC new ideas that will be affecting your marketing programs now and in the future. Listen in for some TREMENDIFIED new insights on: Snapchat rejected Facebook's takeover bid last year. Mark Zuckerberg is taking revenge like a jilted lover. Watch out for this ZUCKERFICATION of Facebook Messenger. Facebook and Sna
Why Twitter matters
First, let's establish something. Despite all the Wall Street belly-aching about Twitter, The Bird is a powerful force in our world. It is a place for innovation, conversation and collaboration. It is where news breaks and politicians rant. It is the place for real-time commentary on live events. But if Twitter has no paying customers, it will not be a platform forever. So there is the rub. Twitter has an enormous and passionate audience. It has a goldmine of real-time data. It is a primary meth
Snapchat For the Win
For the first time since Facebook unseated MySpace in the hearts and minds of teens, ladies and gentlemen, we have a new social media champion -- Snapchat, at least if you're a young American (cue David Bowie). While Facebook continues to dominate overall social media usage, in a new report from Edison Research, Snapchat has eclipsed Facebook with social media users aged 12-24. In fact, 72 percent of them now use Snapchat and 26 percent cited this as the channel they use most often, up from 15 p
Silver lining in the bad news about content marketing
There is a steady drumbeat of bad news about content marketing ... The output of content per brand increased by 78 percent in one year, but content engagement decreased by 60 percent at the same time. On social networks, brand-generated content is seeing the lowest engagement rates now than any other time. BuzzSumo reported that even the best content creators are seeing dramatic declines in social referrals. 50 percent of professionally-marketed blog posts receive fewer than eight social shares
Unlocking the new secrets of customer service
How much time do you spend each week learning something new? It's a problem for me, which is why I love podcasts so much. I can usually find a way to fit in a 30 minute podcast and feel energized and refreshed. I am even getting a lot of new blog posts ideas from podcast discussions that inspire me. If you haven't discovered podcasts as a way to get energized and inspired, the latest edition of The Marketing Companion would be a great place to start. In this latest edition you'll hear about two
Words that inspire and the stories behind them
On the latest edition of The Marketing Companion, Tom Webster and I get personal. Between us, we have more than 50 years of marketing experience and we've learned many important lessons along the way. In this new episode, we look back and discuss the advice we have received from mentors along the way that changed the course of our careers. We also take Bollywood by storm. More or less. I think you will really enjoy this one ... Please support our extraordinary sponsors. Our content is free becau
Achieving the digital mindset
What does it mean to be "digital?" Is your business digital? How do you know it is? Is it enough? Research shows only 18 percent of all businesses are really optimizing digital in a way that creates competitive advantage and those that do leave their competitors far behind. Which side do you fall on? In this new episode of The Marketing Companion, Tom Webster and I go deep on this topic and discuss what it really means to be a digital business, the importance of adopting a digital mindset and th
The internet we need to save
Tom Webster and I have been doing a podcast together for nearly three years. And this is what Tom had to say about our latest episode: "This was our best podcast ever." What made it so? Is the Internet changing for the better or for the worse, and should businesses care? We were inspired by a passage in a recent London Guardian post by Hossein Derakhshan. I miss when people took time to be exposed to opinions other than their own, and bothered to read more than a paragraph or 140 characters. I
Twitter strategy, politics and authenticity gone mad
What impact does social media have on politics? In this episode, Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster look at current events in the marketing space including Twitter's marketing strategy, the impact of social media on politics, the expectation of authenticity and Millennials in the workplace.
What's next for marketing in 2016
The Star Wars editon of Google pants. Let's just get that out of the way. Yes this is part of the cherished and much-anticipated Marketing Companion Holiday Catalogue. It's not just the dream book of 2016. This may be the Dream Book of the Century. At this point you may wondering, "Mark, where can we get this spectacular book of wonder?" The answer my friends is blowing in the wind. No it's not. There is no wind on a blog. The secret is in the latest edition of The Marketing Companion podcast.
Every way to monetize content
I went into the business for the money and the art came out of it. If people are disillusioned by that remark, I'm sorry. It's the truth. -- Charlie Chaplin There are lots of amazing ways to use content for your business. You might want to establish your voice of authority, use content to educate, to help with customer service, perhaps even to entertain. But some of us want to make money. The opportunities to make money from content have changed dramatically in the past 18 months. Traditional m
Stats-A-Palooza
I'm a data junkie. So this is a good time for me to be in marketing because we sure have a lot of amazing facts and figures at our finger tips. But once in a while I see some fact that is mind-blowing and I thought it would be fun to share some of these with you! On our latest podcast episode, Tom Webster and I dug deep into the bowels of the Internet to explore some of the most amazing facts and figures from the social web. It's social media BELIEVE IT OR NOT! The number one pinned item on Pin
The Rant Show
Bollywood dancing. You know you love it. You know you want to do it. So join Tom Webster and me on The Marketing Companion to learn of our new "product line" (many thanks to out friend Ralph Cipolla for the awesome graphic!). Tom and I also get a little prickly on the new edition of podcast. After a brief dance routine (really) we tee-off on online trends that drive us a little nuts: Faking your way through the work-life balance The "live your dream" fallacy Bizarre eMail marketing mis-fires A
Sales and marketing transformation in the digital world
There is no corporate function that has been transformed more quickly -- and more dramatically -- by technology than sales and marketing. In this episode of The Marketing Companion, Tom Webster and I look at the state of the art of sales and marketing, and discuss the role and relevancy of this career path in a digital age. Some of the incredibly interesting topics we cover include: Emerging technology focuses on many traditional marketing functions. Are marketers becoming redundant? Are we in
Competitive pressures on content marketing
Tom Webster and I have the opportunity to experience a broad swath of marketing ideas, organizations and people during our travels and it's always fun to compare notes on what we're seeing out there. In this episode of The Marketing Companion we look at some interesting things that will be transforming content marketing efforts in 2016 and beyond. Some of the things we cover in this new episode of The Marketing Companion ... Is content marketing about leads or relationships? How is this shif
Critical marketing lessons from 2015
2015 is going down in the books as a transformational year for the discipline of marketing. There is just so much going on ... and it's going on so FAST! As Tom Webster and I compared notes from our recent journeys we began to see some themes and marketing lessons that we thought would be entertaining and useful to discuss on our podcast. So ... we did! On the latest episode of The Marketing Companion we get into some wild discussions on some thought-provoking developments such as: Branding is
The shifting sands of Facebook marketing
Have you figured out Facebook marketing? What if I told you that organic reach is GOING UP for many businesses in 2015? Impossible you say? Well, then you will need to catch up with our new episode of The Marketing Companion where we discuss the "secondary advertising ripple" and how it's creating new complexity for companies trying to figure out what's happening on their Facebook page. But wait! There's more! Some of the other ripped from the headlines topics on this episode include: A discus
Telltale signs that it's time to end your business
The entrepreneurial spirit was strong in me, even at an early age. I always had some gig going. I sold Christmas cards door-to-door. I raked leaves and cut grass. I watched kids and dogs. I did anything I could to make a buck. But my first entrepreneurial venture was also my shortest one and it occurred when I was five years old. That's right. I started my first business before I entered the first grade! My family home at that time was at the intersection of two busy streets. When people stoppe
The Influence Marketing Show
Advocate marketing is getting a bit ... prickly. While there are undoubtedly some wonderful programs out there, and many brands are doing it well, there is a rising tide of weird stuff going on in the influencer space, as we explore on the latest episode of The Marketing Companion. The ability for anybody to publish content and gain an active audience has transformed the media world and democratized influence. Many companies are becoming aaware of these "citizen influencers" and how they might
The real story about real-time marketing
Real-time marketing is one of the hottest trends around, prompting entirely new agency specialists and tactics in the last few years. But it has also proved to be disastrous for several brands and the trend might even be losing some steam. This is an issue for rich discussion on the latest Marketing Companion podcast and, in fact, Tom Webster and I disagree on the promise and potential of this marketing trend. In our latest episode we discuss ... Are brands still holding onto old business mode
The future of content strategy
In this era of complex and overwhelming information density innovation will rule as brands find ways to cut through the clutter. In terms of leading content innovation, there is no better leader to observe than Jay Baer of Convince and Convert. Two years ago I would have introduced Jay as a blogger but that is not nearly sufficient enough to describe America's foremost new media mogul. In the past 24 months Baer has introduced rapid short-form videos, a new curated content property, five new pod
Why privacy is about to become the hottest marketing issue
If you read through one piece of research this year it might just be a new report from the University of Pennsylvania on marketers, consumers, and privacy. The research is important not just for its surprising revelations about privacy but also for its unapologetic scolding of the way marketers have been mis-leading their customers. The new Annenberg survey results indicate that marketers are misrepresenting a large majority of Americans by claiming that Americans willingly provide personal inf
In defense of Facebook
In a scathing blog post, the co-founder of Ello blasts Facebook as monstrous entity dedicated to hurting people in the margins of society. In this episode, hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster blast Ello back and explain why Facebook's "real name" policies provide a healthier and authentic social media platform.
How we keep up and improve as marketers?
It's hard to believe but Tom Webster and I have been making beautiful podcast music together for two years and in this anniversary extravaganza we have a long list of celebrity appearances. None of them could actually make it to the show, but we did have a long list. Thanks to Marketing Companion Super Fan Rev Ciancio for this awesome graphic![/caption] Actually we do have moderately interesting guest stars on the show including the robot from Lost In Space. His price was right and he did not e
Do marketing personas still matter?
On The Marketing Companion podcast, Tom Webster and I continue to plow new ground. For example, in this latest episode, we become the first on-demand radio show to mention The Kardashians and B2B buyer personas in the same sentence. We discuss why Zappos employees are fleeing the holocracy, and explain how this concept began with Star Trek. Sort of. And just when you thought it could not get any more interesting, Tom Webster defines the "rectally derived persona." It's insane I tell you. But w
The rise of new content forms
One of my predictions for 2015 was that the incredible wave of information density we all face as marketers will force innovation in content forms. Let's face it, the way we create and consume content has not changed significantly in a decade. The need to stand out will finally force companies to help us create and consume in new ways. And change is in the air. A few new ideas are percolating out there and that is just one of the subjects covered in a very entertaining episode of The Marketing
The new realities of podcasting
Last week I was having a new Internet line installed at my home. I explained to the workers, all under 30, that I needed a period of quiet during the middle of the day because I was about to record a podcast. "What's a podcast?" one of the young crew asked. "It's an Internet radio show," I explained. "Oh," he said, "I have heard a few of those. But what's a podcast exactly?" I then launched into an impromptu lesson on podcasts but it dawned on me that this fellow, like about 20 percent of Ameri
The late, great era of social media engagement
Remember when social media was about engagement? I could argue that the biggest trends we are witnessing are all about NOT engaging! For example, The hottest apps right now are Meerkat and Periscope, essentially turning you into your own live-streaming channel. In other words, you're broadcasting. One of the fastest-growing platforms is podcasting. In essence, there is no engagement. Likewise, fast-rising channels like Pinterest and Instagram don't have the engagement levels we used to see on
Cracking The Content Code
In the latest Marketing Companion, we take a "behind the scenes" examination of The Content Code, a new book that charts a course for winning in a world of overwhelming information density. But along the way, Tom Webster and I also discuss ... A few takeaways from SXSW 2015 The virtures of a sub-premium dating service Why the four benefits of traditional publishing are obsolete, and what I did about it. The reason why this is the hardest time to be in marketing -- ever. The Alpha Audience -- W
Company culture and your future marketing success
I used to work for a big metals and mining company called Alcoa. Whenever I worked on a new customer contract, we always had an extremely conservative legal position, especially when it came to anything that had to do with the competition. Everybody in sales and marketing had to go through annual training programs about what to do if we ever saw a competitor, or a competitor spoke to us. If we were attending a trade show where a competitor would be, we had to get written permission ahead of tim
Don’t Block Me, Bro!
Ad blocking seems to have the advertising industry in crisis but there doesn't seem to be a unified plan to do anything about it. Why? If you haven't become addicted to The Marketing Companion podcast yet, this would be a good episode to try it out. Tom Webster and I cover some amazing topics ... with a little humor and fun thrown in the way as well. In the latest episode, we unwrap: Ad blocking -- A crisis is emerging in the online ad industry. 9 percent of all Internet ads are now being bloc
Social Media in the Workplace
A lot of people are ga-ga over the "social enterprise," a nirvana state where every employee is a brand advocate blissfully tweeting and posting on behalf of the company each day. Obviously this is far-off dream for many organizations, and perhaps not even desirable (gasp). The issue came to the forefront again last week when the web blew up over possible legislation in the state of South Carolina banning the use of social media in the workplace. Outrageous you say? Unheard of? Dystopian? You m
The world's most under-utilized social media platforms
In the latest edition of The Marketing Companion podcast, Tom Webster and I climb all over today's hottest marketing topics. Here's a sampling of our latest audio adventure: Tom amazes Mark with his knowledge of the Seven Dwarves. Cancelling Google Glass -- Is this a blip on the wearable tech radar or has Google set the industry back a step? Under-used social media platforms -- Mark tried an experiment that increased his page views by more than 10X. Would it work for you? What platform seems t
Haters, trolls and malcontents
This week we scrapped plans for the podcast we had planned to address a controversy that emerged at Edison Research, Tom Webster's company. It was time for us to reflect on the great two-edged sword we all face on the Internet: the historically important opportunity to publish and be heard, and the vulnerability we face to be skewered without compassion ... or facts. Overall, the Internet is a good place. A VERY good place, in fact. But it is also a reflection of the human race and about 2 perc
Nothing but the funny bits
We've had a great year on The Marketing Companion podcast and Tom Webster and I thought we would end 2014 with a bit of fun. We've compiled a few of the most hilarious highlights from our podcast so you can ring in 2015 with a laugh. Nothing But the Funny Bits features some of our most popular "products" that got us laughing the hardest, including: Google Pants -- The Party in your pants! Ass Ads -- Monetizing your wearable technology Mark and Tom's first movie "Drone Wars: Rise of the Machin
Our most valuable content lessons
Hosts Mark Schaefer and Tom Webster have been creating written, video, and audio content for years. In this episode, they share with you some of the lessons they have learned from the mistakes and victories they have experienced along the way.
What's next in digital marketing?
New from The Marketing Companion! Your favorite social media personalities as bendable action figures. Just $12.99. Limited quantities available except for the Mark Schaefer edition. We have plenty of those. One of my favorite activities is thinking and talking about what's coming next and there is nobody more fun to have that kind of discussion with than Tom Webster as we take on what's next in digital marketing. On the latest Marketing Companion, Tom and I introduce the Marketing Companion
How Facebook influence is creeping into the real world
I always find it curious when people compare our social media presence with our REAL presence in the "real world." What makes people think that Facebook is NOT the real world? Increasingly, we are beginning to see these lines blur. We create our personality on Facebook. But Facebook is also creating our personality. Facebook changes our behavior. Seriously. Recently, Facebook demonstrated how it can alter our moods by manipulating our content. This is a company that can affect our opinions. Ne
Is Personal Branding Effective, or A Waste of Time?
Do you nurture your online personal brand? Or is your brand simply your personality? Does your personality create your brand or does your brand create your personality? Tom Webster and I had a disagreement on this and the discussion was so compelling we decided to create some content around this in the form of a podcast. In fact, Tom characterizes personal branding as a "load of crap." What is the role of personality containment? Vulnerability? Is there a formula for a personal brand? Opportun
The Mobile Commerce Revolution
It seems at the end of every year, pundits predict that "this is the year of MOBILE!" And perhaps it is finally true. But as my podcasting partner in crime Tom Webster writes in his new book The Mobile Commerce Revolution: Business Success in a Wireless World (with co-author Tim Hayden), it is mobility, not just "mobile", that is changing the world. You are not going to want to miss this insightful discussion on the new Marketing Companion podcast about Tom's new book. You also do not want to
Ello and the economics of social networks
The advent of Ello has been one of the most interesting developments of the year. The new social network promises a simple, ad-free platform to connect and share. Wait. Ad-free you say? In fact, the platform's founder, Paul Budnitz, has been making the media rounds proclaiming he "doesn't care about money." While there is probably more to this network than pure virtue, Ello is undeniably HOT, signing up 30,000 new users every HOUR. Many bloggers are trumpeting this little start-up as the Facebo
Authenticity and the Human Brand
My friend Justin Levy just had brain surgery. He went into the operation not quite knowing what would be on the other side. Despite this personal nightmare, Justin's social media presence was extraordinarily brave, honest, and revealing. Through his timely and detailed posts, his friends and followers could get a daily peek into every aspect of his trial. His successful operation was finally trumpeted with a triumphant "thumbs up photo" on Facebook. Thousands of people felt relief. This very p
What are the boundaries to inbound marketing?
One of the most interesting aspects about being an observer in this particular time and place in the history of marketing is watching the continuous cycle of innovation, experimentation, and maturity. The dynamics of our age are unprecedented and exciting. For example, let's say we were in the 1970s. In that entire decade, what innovation caused us to re-think marketing strategy? There was probably one in the entire ten-year-period: the emergence of cable TV. If you compare it to what we face t
Coming clean on Facebook reach
Is there any greater source of emotional debate and mis-information on the web today than Facebook reach? I recently had a little debate on this subject with a person who wrote a glowing article on the promise of Facebook reach -- despite what appears to be pretty bad news in this corner of the web. I challenged him -- Why write an article that seems to be so counter to the facts? "I'm tired of so much negativity about Facebook," he said. "I wanted spin the facts in a more positive way." With s
The Time for Twitter is Now
Are you using Twitter for your business? Maybe the time for Twitter is now if you consider some of the trends on this popular social media platform: Twitter has momentum. Revenue jumped 124 percent in the latest quarter, and it "beat the Street" estimates for user growth. Twitter shined during the World Cup, owning the online conversation for the planet's biggest sporting event. It appears that Twitter is preparing a "buy now" button. In our new Marketing Companion podcast, Tom Webster and
Would you erase yourself from Google Search?
Have you tried The Marketing Companion podcast yet? People seem to love the humor and intelligence of our audio marketing adventures. If you have not listened in yet, this would be a great edition to begin with. In this show, Tom Webster and I were far too caffeinated to stick to one subject so we decided to go through a grab bag of current topics including: Erasing yourself from Google. New European Union legislation on "the right to be forgotten" allows people to remove themselves from search
If I were the King of Facebook
Complaining about Facebook has become one of the web's favorite spectator sports. But if you were the king of Facebook, what would you do to fix it? Well, Tom Webster and I decided to do something about it. We appointed ourselves the potentate and caliph of Facebook for a day and solved all of the company's problems in 30 minutes. Impossible you say? Well, we can cover a heck of a lot of ground in just one podcast, like ... Can Facebook be a profitable company without pissing people off? How m
Using Disruption as a Business Strategy
It seems everywhere you go these days people are talking about Disruption as the next big business "thing." There are packed disruption conferences, disruption books, disruption consultants. But here is the nagging question I've had tumbling through my mind. Is it really possible to be strategic around disruption? Is it possible for disruption to be a plan ... or is disruption the explanation of what happened after the fact? I've been conflicted on this because it runs counter to what I've lea
Technologies that will disrupt marketing strategies
There are so many shifting sands on the marketing landscape that it might seem overwhelming. But there are two trends that deserve to be on your radar screen and that is the topic of the latest scintillating edition of The Marketing Companion. After Tom and I enjoy a non-traditional gift exchange for the one-year anniversary of the podcast, we dissect what we believe to be important trends to consider moving forward: 1) The use of "big data" to actually predict mega-trends and market outcomes 2
The Invisible Blogger
By Mark Schaefer My friend and podcast co-host Tom Webster recently penned a really honest and thought-provoking post called "Authorship." In the post, Tom laments that the more he guest posts and syndicates his writing, the less relevant he may become. I know that sounds counter-intuitive but he makes some good points. The web cares about CONTENT, not necessarily authors, and Tom postulates that in our frenzy to write and distibrute content, we may be creating more and more work only to become
Lifehacks for the Modern Marketer
How do you get it all done? If I had a nickel for every time I heard this question ... well, I wouldn't be rich (let's be honest) but I could probably treat you to lunch. It seems that people have an endless curiosity about how I get things done. Tom Webster and I thought marketing lifehacks would be a very interesting podcast topic -- and it was, because Tom and I had some pretty divergent views on tech solutions versus old-school lifehacks to manage a busy schedule. Some of the topics we cov
Where do we go next with Google+ ?
Whether you think Google+ is dead, dying, or still on the rise, one thing is certain: something has to change. This post will tell you what and why. Google+ was meant to take on Facebook. This is an economic imperative for a company built on: a) collecting personal information that can be turned into ads and b) finding ways to have you spend more time on their sites so you can see those ads. Facebook was capturing a disproportionate share of our personal information and Google had to do somethi
Digital Marketing: Are the Bad Guys Winning?
A few months ago, my blog was a target for a denial of service attack. What this meant was that a "bot" was set up by somebody (in this case a person in The Netherlands) to hit my site over and over so many times that readers cannot access the blog. It was a random attack and this might seem like a pretty dumb business plan, but apparently a lot of companies are obsessed with breaking into my site ... and probably yours too. The result was that I had to spend many hours and thousands of dollars
New insights on digital radio, Facebook and Google+
In the newest episode of The Marketing Companion Tom Webster and I examine a brand new study from Edison that reveals some eye-popping new insights on podcasting, online radio and social media consumption. Some of the highlights of this podcast episode include: Introducing "Poodle King" Webster and Social Media Explained The explosion of online radio and the implications for content consumption Extraordinary changes in podcasting content, consumption, and audiences Mobile implications for cont
Marketing conferences: The good, the bad, the ugly
I go to a lot of marketing conferences and they are undeniably a great way to learn, network and stay up to speed on the human and technological breakthroughs that are transforming our business. But how are they changing? How important are they? Does it make sense to attend? To sponsor? This is probably a topic on a lot of minds as our personal time is compressed and travel budgets are slashed so Tom Webster and dove into this topic on our newest Marketing Companion podcast. Some of the topics
The influence marketing episode
As many of our channels for reaching customers are getting strangled, brands are turning to new ways to connect and communicate with customers. One natural opportunity is to align with the authentic advocacy represented by bloggers and other powerful content creators. In an information-dense world where it is more difficult to become the signal instead of the noise, blogger outreach is escalating, providing both financial opportunity and ethical dilemmas. This dynamic provides fascinating and e
Where does social media fit in the marketing mix?
A number of news items coalesced recently and made me wonder ... what is the true role of social media in the marketing mix today? How has it changed? Is it really about connection? Is it still a way to engage with customers? Or, has it been so overrun by agencies and programmed content that it is little more than advertising? Maybe you have been wondering the same thing? This is such a vital topic that Tom Webster and I decided to tackle this on the latest edition of The Marketing Companion. H
Tips for leveraging public speaking in your marketing mix
Over the past decade, companies and executives have re-discovered the power of incorporating public speaking into the marketing mix. Some of the advantages include: Creating high-quality content that can be leveraged in many places Cost-effective way to reach a targeted audience with a message Good PR opportunities. Building a personal brand that also can accentuate a product and company brand (think of Richard Branson) Leveraging a position of personal thought leadership to promote a company
Leadership is not a dirty word
When I was in graduate school I took a class that examined the qualities of leadership. I have to make a confession ... the only reason I took it was because I thought it was going to be an easy blow-off class! I was completely wrong. This turned out to be one of the most interesting and inspiring classes of my career and it ignited a lifetime of study on the subject. It turned me into a leadership junky. My fascination with this subject was one of the reasons that drove me to write Return On I
Overcoming Content Shock: Beating information density
Over the past few weeks the interweb airwaves have been humming and buzzing with data pointing to the increasing costs of getting your content seen and distributed through an over-crowded web. In a recent Advertising Age article, Facebook reports: "Content that is eligible to be shown in our news feed is increasing at a faster rate than people's ability to consume it." A study by InboundWriter shows only 10 to 20 percent of a company’s website content drives 90 percent of its online traffic. S
Facebook reach, a massive breach and influence marketing steps up
In our latest Marketing Companion Podcast, Tom Webster and I examine three ripped-from-the-headlines topics critical to digital marketing: A decline in Facebook reach? -- New research from several sources indicates that Facebook algorithmic tweaks could be dramatically depressing the visibility of brand posts to their audiences. We dissect this data and discuss whether this is real or something that could actually get much worse. Are we safe? -- Our last podcast covered 2014 marketing trends a
Six mind-blowing marketing trends
This not your normal 2014 forecast post about Facebook advertising and "the year of mobile" (yawn). Tom Webster and I put our heads together to really think through some of the implications of what we're seeing out there and the six projections we developed are not exactly run of the mill social media fare. I think you are going to really enjoy our latest Marketing Companion podcast. It is going to surprise, and perhaps even startle, you. The podcast starts out with a visit from Arnold Schwarz
The perils and promise of sponsored content
Sponsored content is probably the hottest -- and most controversial -- marketing trend around. Embedding advertising messages in the editorial portion of online properties is an act of desperation -- Traditional advertising is in decline as technology allows people to avoid ads The fact of the matter is that sponsored content works best when you don't know it's an ad. This raises so many questions about best practices, disclosure and regulations. On our new Marketing Companion podcast, Tom Web
How data is screwing up content marketing
An early Google Pants sighting[/caption] Companies like Forrester and Gartner -- who used to make their money providing expensive and exclusive research reports -- are finding it impossible to "contain" the data. If somebody buys just one report, it's likely to very soon be distributed widely on the web for free. As a result, there is a very subtle but important change going on in the world of research with profound implications for what we can see and believe on the social web. In our latest
A Forecast for Podcasting: Trends, Predictions and Google Pants
Podcasting, which traces its roots back to "audioblogging" in the 1980s, has enjoyed a renaissance as smart phones have become nearly ubiquitous. But what does the future hold? The great hope for podcasting might be the emotional, immersive nature of the medium. It's a rich content relationship, not a digital "snack" and a unique opportunity to provide both entertainment and information. A podcast is a companion and the engagement level might make it ideal for business development. Now that
The biggest business opportunity in marketing today
Here's the number one business opportunity in marketing today: Teach marketing leaders, social media gurus and SEO professionals how to ask the right questions about data. I'm serious. There is a golden opportunity here because many businesses leaders don't seem to know enough about basic marketing analytics to know whether their programs are growing or not. We are leading "by our gut" in a world that promises true wisdom and insight if we can understand the numbers. The implication is that we
The future of Twitter
Twitter is at a crossroads. It's in the process of becoming a public company which will inevitably affect how they monetize, where they monetize, and perhaps even influence the type of content they are willing to allow on the site. A bastion for free speech, how will Twitter react when Wall Street pushes back on controversial content? As little Twitter has grown up it is now squarely in the gunsights of Facebook, which can only survive and thrive by increasing its "marketshare" of our persona
What skills do you need to succeed in marketing?
I have a new Twitter follower who has branded herself as an "authenticity coach." This puzzled me. Is that a real business? Is "authenticity" a critical business skill so important it has become a cottage industry? And perhaps the bigger question is, exactly what DO you need to learn to succeed in a marketing career today? This is a complex question because marketing as a career discipline has evolved differently than other areas of business. If you are a finance professional or you work in a
What does it take to start a blog today?
The blogging life used to be so easy. Just five years ago, a blog was still a novelty and if you started one, you would probably occupy a niche in your industry. But since then, the world has conspired to make blogging very difficult ... "Content marketing" also means "content overload," -- this is a crowded and noisy field for newcomers. The dynamic world of search engines and SEO has made it complicated for bloggers to become discovered. New entertainment alternatives and social media distra
Will Jeff Bezos lead the next media revolution?
Newspapers are dying. Local TV stations are struggling. Many radio stations have been in decline for more than a decade. And then, Jeff happened. This has been a fascinating couple of weeks if you're interested in newspapers and digital media. John Henry (owner of the Boston Red Sox) bought the Boston Globe and Jeff Bezos (Founder of Amazon) bought The Washington Post within the same week. When I first heard about the Bezos move, I thought "huh?" But the more I considered it, the more excited
Google Glass: Is this the future, or does it just make you look like a dork?
Can you imagine anything that would inspire marketing creativity more than a device that allows you to view the Internet all the time, everywhere ... like a digital layer across the world? That certainly seems to be the promise of Google Glass, perhaps the boldest step forward in the trend of "wearable technology." In my mind, this will be a transformational opportunity for, well ... everything! Education. Connection. Discovery. Entertainment. Business. But my wise friend and podcast co-host
The Content Mill: Is Quantity Killing Quality on the Web?
I think the role of "content" in the marketing mix is one of the most fasciating discussion topics around. How much is enough? How do you break through? Can you win on the back of quantity alone by overwhelming competitors? So I was delighted to have the opportunity to thrash this discussion around with the brilliant Tom Webster on our latest Marketing Companion podcast. In this latest edition, we talk about: The dirty little secret of content marketing How quantity works against quality The Hu
The Failure Manifesto and Why it is Hurting Your Business
How many times have you led a business failure? Do you have to experience catastrophic failure to be successful? If I fail more than you, will I ultimately be more successful than you? These are some of the questions and topics creeping into the blogosphere over the past few years as the notion of failure seems to take on an almost romantic quality. I find this strange. As an entrepreneur, I want to do everything I can to AVOID failure. Sure, if you are trying something new, you are bound to f
Flouting Klout
The Marketing Companion Episode 1: Flouting Klout Klout steps into the ring as a content creator Influence at the top of the search rankings Guest appearance by Ringo Starr as a talking apple Is Klout re-defining "expert?" The search for "warmer" search Klout and corruption The emotional hook of Klout Could your Klout score become a global VIP card? Will we be seeing Klout optimization experts? What Klout does well. Tom reads his spam