Shows
The Marketing CompanionSustaining a personal brand in trying timesJay Acunzo and Mark Schaefer discuss their success in sustaining their personal content production for years, even decades. They discuss their mindset and strategies of incorporating a content lifestyle and beating the odds. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," "Belonging to the Brand," and "Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World." 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 personal branding and professional speaking. Jay Acunzo consults experts and entrepreneurs to differen...
2025-12-0133 minThe Marketing CompanionTruth is now a luxuryMark Schaefer begins the show with a significant announcement about the future of The Marketing Companion. Co-host Sandy Carter kicks off a discussion about how Deep Fakes are overwhelming even the most famous brands and company leaders. Mark and Sandy also cover the impact of AI speed on marketing, the rise of the humanoids and more. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," "Belonging to the Brand," and "Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every wee...
2025-11-1738 minThe Marketing CompanionThe OG Marketing Ideas We Need TodayLet's put AI on the corner of a moment and remind ourselves of the OG marketing ideas that still make sense. In this episode, Mark Schaefer and Andy Crestodina talk about the enduring need for strong branding, live events, and sex (you'll just have to hear the whole story!). Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," "Belonging to the Brand," and "Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every week, subcribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also o...
2025-11-0330 minThe Marketing CompanionCase studies in AI for lead generationMark Schaefer and Dana Malstaff discuss how they are utilizing AI in distinct ways to attract new customers. Mark built an expert-trained model called MarkBot that is informed by his life's work. This is available to all through his website. Dana has created custom bots that encourage top-of-funnel engagement for her business while blending human connection that builds trust. This episode is an inspiring and engaging discussion on breakthrough ideas to connect to customers by blending AI and the human touch. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," "Belonging to the Br...
2025-10-0637 minThe Marketing CompanionOur children, their education, and AIMark Schaefer has a new grandchild. Amanda Russell has a toddler. Both of them wonder what an AI-dominant world has in store for them. In this personal and introspective episode, Mark and Amanda reflect on what college meant to their careers, the advice they would give to kids about college today, and how education will need to change for Gen Alpha. This is an essential episode for everyone wondering how AI will impact the next generation. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," "Belonging to the Brand," and "Audacious: How Humans...
2025-08-2535 minThe Marketing CompanionAI Signals to influence the purchasing decisionAs use of AI soars and customers place more trust in AI, the bots are making decisions for our customers. From vacations to recipes, we're using AI in creative ways to make our lives easier and skip the time to analyze options. But how does AI make the decision? The platforms are getting their information from somewhere. What is the role of traditional content and marketing? The answer will surprise you. In this far-reaching show, Mark Schaefer and Andy Crestodina explore new research on how AI makes decisions and what matters. This episode also contains extraordinary bonus content. Mark Schaefer is...
2025-08-1144 minThe Marketing CompanionCreate an AI Bot to Build Your BusinessMark Schaefer and Dana Malstaff discuss practical applications to use ChatGPT to build your own private, personal AI advisors to reach clients, expand your reach, and fuel your personal growth. This is an easy and accessible way to create new capabilities for your business without any coding knowledge. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," "Belonging to the Brand," and "Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every week, subcribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also offer...
2025-07-1432 minThe Marketing CompanionAI marketing agents gain groundIn this wide-ranging talk with AI marketing strategist Mathew Sweezey, we cover a lot of ground, including AI's need for marketing speed, the human bottleneck, the reality of agents, a softer view of generative AI legal concerns, and reimagining the nature of creativity. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books, including "KNOWN," "Belonging to the Brand," and "Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every week, subscribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also offers classes in personal branding and pro...
2025-06-3034 minThe Marketing CompanionContent and compromiseAre you creating content to build an audience, build a brand, or win the SEO sweepstakes? How does content really work in the world today? It's complicated, but Mark Schaefer and Jay Acunzo have a meeting of the minds in this fast-paced and provocative show. 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 personal branding and professional speaking Jay Acunzo consults...
2025-06-1635 minThe Marketing CompanionHow do you work through the suffering?In this highly intimate and vulnerable show, Mark Schaefer and Dana Malstaff discuss the times in their lives when they've had to keep a business running through illness, loss, and betrayal. To be human is to suffer and the world doesn't stop for us when the suffering comes. Mark and Dana share how they have kept going even through the hardest moments in their lives. A Marketing Companion episode you won't soon forget.
2025-04-2141 minThe Marketing CompanionThe AI impact on SEONew co-host Andy Crestodina unwraps the hottest topic on the web these days — the impact of AI on SEO. Most websites are starting to get hits from AI sites, and Mark Schaefer reports that he's gained new customers. But what is the secret to success? Mark and Andy also debate LinkedIn newsletters — is it too late to find success? Is it robbing readers from your website?
2025-02-2435 minThe Marketing CompanionBig marketing ideas for 2025Mark 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, subcribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also offers classes in personal branding and professional speaking. Mathew Sweezey is the Co-Founder of Salesforces Web3 St...
2025-01-1331 minThe Marketing CompanionThe key to success isn't having the best answers. It's having the best questionsIn 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 insights every week, subcribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also offers classes in personal branding and professional speaking. Jay Acunzo consults experts and entrepren...
2024-12-3041 minThe Marketing CompanionThree questions that will change your careerKeith 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 Brand," and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every week, subcribe to his award...
2024-12-0233 minThe Marketing CompanionAn inside view of LinkedIn successMark 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 retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every week, subcribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also offers classes in personal branding and professional speaking.
2024-11-0447 minThe Marketing CompanionThe Making of a Signature StoryEvery 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 consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," "Belonging to the...
2024-10-0733 minThe Marketing CompanionInfluencer product launchesEd 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 the new episode of The Marketing Companion. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the autho...
2024-09-2330 minThe Marketing CompanionThe mystery of social objectsMark 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 retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every week, subcribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also offers classes in personal brandi...
2024-09-0932 minThe Marketing CompanionDoes 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.
2024-08-2653 minThe Marketing CompanionBrand Communities: State of the NationMark 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, subcribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also offers classes in personal branding and professional speaking.
2024-08-1236 minThe Marketing CompanionA search for personal peaceOn 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 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 hi...
2024-07-2933 minThe Marketing CompanionHow curiosity fuels marketingJay 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 they did to build their brands and leave their legacies. Learn more and find a...
2024-07-1529 minThe Marketing CompanionBeyond imposter syndromeIt 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 educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," "Belonging to the Brand," and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual ma...
2024-07-0133 minThe Marketing CompanionWhat 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 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 personal brandin...
2024-06-1739 minThe Marketing CompanionPhilosophical Quandaries About AIMark 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 personal branding and professional speaking.
2024-06-0333 minThe Marketing CompanionThe future of social listeningMost 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 "KNOWN," "Belonging to the Brand," and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every week, subcr...
2024-05-2035 minThe Marketing CompanionThe Human side of AIMark 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 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...
2024-05-0634 minThe Marketing CompanionWhen to stop and start your content projectsMark 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, subcribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also offers classes in personal branding and professional speaking. Jay Acunzo...
2024-04-2234 minThe Marketing CompanionUnraveling the global sports industryAmanda 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 marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every week, subcribe to his award-winning blog. M...
2024-04-0842 minThe Marketing CompanionA backlash against "purpose" in marketingToo 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 Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every week, subcribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also offers classes in personal bran...
2024-03-2537 minThe Marketing CompanionThe next generation of consumers is hereMarketing 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 the most valuable commodity in the world: attention. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, a...
2024-02-2631 minThe Marketing CompanionA new look at loyaltyBrand 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 insights every week, subcribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also offers classes in personal branding and professional speaking....
2024-02-1234 minThe Marketing CompanionMy biggest business mistakesWe 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 award-winning blog. Mark also offers classes in personal branding and professional speaking. Jay Acunzo is an a...
2024-01-2932 minThe Marketing CompanionBreaking all the rules of eCommerceIf 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 Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every week, subcribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also offers classes in pe...
2024-01-1549 minThe Marketing CompanionFrom Paycheck to Purpose: Why I Stopped Growing My BusinessMark 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 retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every week, subcribe to his award-winning blog. Mark also offers clas...
2023-12-2737 minThe Marketing CompanionThe creator-based commercial strategyCreators 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," "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...
2023-12-0434 minThe Marketing CompanionThe beauty of messy marketingMark 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," "Belonging to the Brand," and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every week, subcribe to...
2023-10-2337 minThe Marketing CompanionThe generosity strategyCan 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 Brand," and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's insights ev...
2023-10-0933 minThe Marketing CompanionScaling human-powered marketingAs 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 annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's insights every week, subcribe to his award-winning blog....
2023-09-2537 minThe Marketing CompanionGen Z ExposedSara 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 author of 10 books including "KNOWN," "Belonging to the Brand," and "Marketing Rebellion." His an...
2023-09-1135 minThe Marketing CompanionThe personal impact of AIMark 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 including "KNOWN," "Belonging to the Brand," and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. For more of Mark's ins...
2023-08-2841 minThe Marketing CompanionThe unified theory of content successThere 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. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," "Belonging to th...
2023-08-1433 minThe Marketing CompanionThe AI hierarchy of contentAI 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 retreat is The Uprising. Amanda Russell is the founder of the Global Center for Influence (C4In), laun...
2023-07-3139 minThe Marketing CompanionPublic speaking in the marketing mixDennis 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 including "KNOWN," "Belonging to the Brand," and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. Dennis Yu...
2023-07-0343 minThe Marketing CompanionThe greatest content marketing experiment in historyThis 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 Bravington.
2023-06-191h 03The Marketing CompanionThe 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-Founder of Salesforces Web3 Studio where he helped Salesforce and their top customers transition into Web3. Mathew an independent consultant, a best selling auth...
2023-06-0528 minThe Marketing CompanionWhat is the gist of YOU? Relevance in the AI worldIn 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 "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. Jay Ac...
2023-05-2236 minThe Marketing CompanionThe luxury brand enigmaIn 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" and "Marketing Rebellion." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. Amanda Russell is the founder of the Global Center for Influence (C4In...
2023-05-0839 minThe Marketing CompanionWhat the "Whole Self" Movement Means to MarketersShould 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 Jennings is an executive and writer who equips professionals to serve with values, generosity, and social impact.He serves as vice president of community impact wi...
2023-04-2438 minThe Marketing CompanionThe new and now of social media marketingMark 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." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. Dennis Yu is on a mission to create a million jobs by training up int...
2023-04-1035 minThe Marketing CompanionCracking the Gen Z CodeSara 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 Rebellion," and "Belonging to the Brand." His annual marketing retreat is The Uprising. Sara Wilson is a journalist-turned-social-marketer (former Face...
2023-03-1334 minThe Marketing CompanionCreativity and the true threat of AIMark 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 AI will dominate at least one of those categories. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, co...
2023-02-2734 minThe Marketing CompanionMarketing 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 and the host of the well-known Marketing Book podcast. Mark Schaefer is a strategy consultant, college educator, key...
2023-01-1654 minThe Marketing CompanionBig marketing ideas of the yearMark 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 selling author, and avid adventurer.
2022-12-1929 minThe Marketing CompanionReimagining content marketingMark 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 companies. Why not transfer these best practices to the corporate and agency world? Mark Schaefer is a s...
2022-12-0538 minThe Marketing CompanionBuilding relationships in a fast-moving worldAmanda 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 follow through Establishing reciprocity The role of community Mark and Amanda also discuss the phenomenon of imposter syndrome. It seems to be everywhere but neither one o...
2022-11-2143 minThe Marketing CompanionStatus drives marketingMark 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.
2022-11-0742 minThe Marketing CompanionA farewell to BrookeIn 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.
2021-09-2642 minThe Marketing CompanionProblems with purpose-driven marketingThe 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.
2021-04-2538 minThe Marketing CompanionA special message from MarkMark Schaefer reflects on the fact that there is light at the end of this tunnel!
2021-02-2206 min
The Marketing CompanionAn inside marketing view from AdidasIn 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.
2020-08-1741 min
The Marketing CompanionSliding into DMsMark 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.
2020-07-2034 min
The Marketing CompanionThe return of MarkMark 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.
2020-05-1139 min
The Marketing CompanionEmbracing the chaosMark Schaefer shares his view of personal and business priorities in this time of extreme disruption and loss.
2020-03-2322 min
The Marketing CompanionTen years of social media with Jay BaerMark 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!
2020-01-0645 min
The Marketing CompanionWhy 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.
2019-11-2536 min
The Marketing CompanionWhat 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.
2019-10-2836 min
The Marketing CompanionLESSONS Bonus: How to give your first big speechIn 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.
2019-10-2108 min
The Marketing CompanionKey takeaways on the future of marketingHost 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.
2019-10-1339 min
The Marketing CompanionLESSONS Bonus: The one word that changed my lifeIn 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!
2019-10-0608 min
The Marketing CompanionLESSONS Bonus: Essential lessons from Peter DruckerIn this free audio chapter of Mark Schaefer's book LESSONS, Mark provides you exclusive insight from studying under management and marketing legend Peter Drucker
2019-09-2312 min
The Marketing CompanionLESSONS Bonus: How to remain bot-proofUse 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
2019-09-0808 min
The Marketing CompanionIn 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.
2019-09-0237 min
The Marketing CompanionLESSONS bonus: How to dial up the gritIn 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.
2019-08-2508 min
The Marketing CompanionImpact of fake news on your marketing departmentSamsung 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.
2019-06-0935 min
The Marketing CompanionThe true story of trollsTrolls 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.
2019-05-2739 min
The Marketing CompanionCan 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.
2019-04-2836 min
The Marketing Companionwhat 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
2019-04-1430 min
The Marketing CompanionA rant: social media lemmingsHosts 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.
2019-03-3132 min
The Marketing CompanionSaying goodbye to TomIn 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.
2019-03-1725 min
The Marketing CompanionRebellion Papers: Advertising without the adsIn 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.
2019-03-1012 min
The Marketing CompanionRebellion Papers: Reimagining marketing in human termsIn 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.
2019-02-2410 min
The Marketing CompanionRebellion Papers: Co-creating the customer journeyIn 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.
2019-02-1013 min
The Marketing CompanionThe unintended consequences of techToo 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/) Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1100207 Artist: http://incompetech.com/
2019-02-0331 min
The Marketing CompanionRebellion Papers: Marketing Anthropologist Martin LindstromIn 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.
2019-01-2711 min
The Marketing CompanionA Marketing Rebellion has begunHow 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.
2019-01-2039 min
The Marketing CompanionThe economics of professionalismHosts 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
2018-10-2836 min
The Marketing CompanionRealities of the Entrepreneurial JourneyHost 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.
2018-10-1439 min
The Marketing CompanionWho 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.
2018-09-1739 min
The Marketing CompanionEmotional connection and the modern brandMark 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.
2018-08-0635 min
The Marketing CompanionIs 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.
2018-07-2238 min
The Marketing CompanionWhy customers really don't want to engage with your brandHosts 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.
2018-07-0833 min
The Marketing CompanionOur favorite marketing booksIn 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.
2018-05-2934 min
The Marketing CompanionThere's no escaping FacebookHosts 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.
2018-05-1333 min
The Marketing CompanionThe brand stand: Mixing politics, social good and salesIn 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?
2018-04-3033 min
The Marketing CompanionThe New Ethics of MarketingThere 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!
2018-04-0836 min
The Marketing CompanionBack to the future: What's old is new again in marketingHosts 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!
2018-04-0140 min
The Marketing CompanionCocooning consumers and more amazing mega-trendsNew 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?
2017-12-2439 min
The Marketing CompanionPersonal marketing successes and failuresIn 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!
2017-08-1739 min
The Marketing CompanionFacebook chases down SnapchatSo 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 Snapchat ... AT WAR? The surprising new study that shows how people consume content in their cars. GOLLY G...
2016-04-1438 min