Likely Marketing

In the age of AI search, brands are no longer competing only for rankings. They’re competing to be understood. When someone asks ChatGPT, Google AI Overviews, or Perplexity about a company, the machine first asks: “Who exactly is this brand?” In this episode, Shivendra explores Entity SEO — the invisible layer shaping visibility in AI search. From vague positioning and confusing brand names to schema markup, structured data, and consistent digital signals, discover why AI trusts clarity over noise. Because before AI can recommend your brand, mention it, or rank it, it needs to confidently understand who you are. AI search doesn’t reward the loudest brand. It rewards the clearest identity.(00:00) Intro(01:33) How AI solves the confusion of brand identity(05:13) How can brands reduce AI’s confusion?(08:14) How unclear positioning makes AI hesitate and what more can marketers do?(09:32) Bringing it all together: How to make sure AI understands your brand clearly

The first version of the web gave us clicks. This one quietly takes them away. In this episode, we explore how AI browsers like Dia Browser, Comet Browser, Opera Neon, Atlas Browser, and Google Chrome are turning the internet into an intent-driven system where decisions happen before clicks. What starts as a search becomes a conversation, then an action—summaries replace scrolling, agents compare options, and workflows replace journeys. While cookies still exist, real power is shifting to context, memory, and AI-led actions. For marketers, this means your audience may never visit your site, yet still choose you. Visibility is no longer about ranking—it’s about being selected inside an answer. This is marketing for AI browsers—where influence happens before the click.(00:00) Intro(01:19) A snapshot of what’s new across each AI browser, so far(11:50) What are the AI browsers doing to lock-in the users?(13:58) How are AI browsers tracking user journeys, and how can marketers use that to their advantage?(17:35) How are AI browsers handling cookies?(20:24) What’s next for AI browsers and marketers?

It began with a small shift inside Instagram, a simple “Add link” button that marketers had waited years for. But this wasn’t just a feature update. It was a signal. For a decade, “link in bio” shaped how traffic flowed, powering tools like Linktree and defining what organic growth looked like. Now, with caption links available only through Meta Verified, the journey from discovery to conversion collapses into a single tap, if you’re willing to pay. This episode explores how Instagram caption links for marketing turn frictionless conversion into a paid advantage, blur the meaning of “organic,” and quietly introduce a new reality: it’s no longer just about who earns attention, but who gets to convert.(00:00) Intro(01:40) Instagram caption links - how it works and why it matters(03:14) How Instagram caption links differ from Stories or bio links(05:09) Reasons why Meta decided to allow caption links on Instagram now(10:36) Are Instagram caption links a “deal sweetener” for a tiered social media?(13:18) The bigger question - are traffic and conversion from caption links truly organic?(14:58) Strategic takeaways for marketers, brands and creators with respect to Instagram caption links(18:09) Parting thoughts…

A flicker. A shadow. A heartbeat that isn’t yours. Millions press play not just to watch horror, but to feel something deeper. Horror fans aren’t passive viewers—they seek intensity, remember what moves them, and reward what earns their attention. In this episode, we explore the psychology behind this behavior—from sensation-seeking to emotional memory—and why it makes horror audiences more open, experimental, and deeply engaged. This isn’t a niche; it’s a high-value segment hiding in plain sight. From streaming personalization to immersive experiences and community-driven campaigns, brands are already tapping into it. But horror doesn’t reward interruption—it demands immersion, cultural sensitivity, and bold storytelling. When done right, it doesn’t just capture attention, it lingers. The question is: will your brand be worth the scare?(00:00) Intro(01:29) What research says about horror movie goers as consumers(07:55) How some brands use these traits of horror genre lovers(15:01) A practical playbook for marketers to target horror genre audience(18:18) When horror genre makes sense, and when it doesn’t

You open your analytics dashboard, searching for the next big content bet—sports, food, drama but nothing sticks. Then you notice a pattern: horror. Not jump scares or gore, but something deeper. Since 2015, horror movies have evolved into a global attention engine with low budgets, massive ROI, and strong retention across theaters and streaming. But the real story lies in the audience—young, diverse, and highly engaged. They don’t just watch; they feel, share, and return. The reason is psychological. Horror taps into sensation-seeking and “safe fear,” delivering intense yet controlled emotional experiences that people often enjoy together. That shared emotion drives memory, loyalty, and community. For marketers, the lesson is simple but powerful: attention follows emotion, and loyalty follows shared experience. Horror movies were never just about fear, they reveal how audiences think, feel, and behave.(00:00) Intro(01:49) Love for horror stories has been growing rapidly…(04:23) …but who’s watching them? (audience demographics)(05:28) The psychology behind the desire to be scared(09:17) Quick takeaways on the horror genre and the underlying psychology of the audience

AI search is quietly rewriting the rules of discovery. With Google AI Overviews, users increasingly get answers directly on the search page without clicking a website. Convenient for users—but disruptive for publishers, creators, and brands whose content powers those answers. Now Google is exploring something unprecedented: letting websites opt out of AI-generated search summaries while staying visible in traditional search. This creates a strategic dilemma for marketers. Should your content train AI for visibility and credibility, or protect proprietary insights, traffic, and brand value? In this episode, we unpack the Google AI opt-out debate, how AI search is becoming a separate marketing channel, and why brands must decide which content should fuel AI discovery and which should remain protected in a zero-click search world.(00:00) Intro(01:57) How we got to the point when Google is ‘exploring’ AI opt-outs?(04:59) How does AI opt-in and opt-out tension affect discoverability?(07:34) How would it impact the data quality and training of AI?(11:01) In which cases can AI opt-out be beneficial for marketing?(13:03) In which cases can AI opt-out be risky for marketing?(14:51) Is there a power shift from platforms to content creators? Or is it a re-balancing?(16:22) Top 5 things marketers can take away from this AI-search opt-out conversation(18:41) Wrapping up…

We are living in an age of information overload where AI can generate content faster than ever. Feeds are full of polished posts, perfect visuals, and algorithm-friendly messages—yet most of it disappears from memory within seconds. This episode explores the growing tension in AI for branding and marketing. As generative AI floods the internet with “AI slop”—content that looks impressive but feels hollow—audiences are becoming better at spotting it and trusting it less. Interestingly, this shift is pushing some of the most thoughtful brands like Apple, Polaroid, Heineken, Muji, and Dove to move AI backstage. They use AI for research, insights, and personalization, but keep the brand story human. Because in a world of automated content, authentic human stories are becoming the real competitive advantage.(00:00) Intro(01:59) The AI slop has created a paradox for brands and marketers(05:17) Examples of brands avoiding AI-generated content, and why?(10:15) How are brands using AI quietly, in the background?(14:34) How can brands and marketers figure out whether they can lean on AI or not?(17:49) Few more words on this tension around using AI for branding and marketing…

The room goes silent. The CFO asks: “If we move budget, what happens to revenue?” In today’s privacy-first, AI-driven chaos, guesswork fails. This episode explores how Marketing Mix Modeling (MMM) is becoming a strategic edge through Google Meridian and Google Scenario Planner.Meridian analyzes aggregated, multi-channel data to uncover true incremental impact. Scenario Planner turns that model into a no-code control panel—letting marketers simulate budget shifts and forecast outcomes in real time.It’s not a silver bullet. It’s a cultural shift—from reporting what happened to modeling what to do next. Google Scenario Planner MMM could turn budget anxiety into evidence-backed strategy—if your organization is ready.(00:00) Intro(01:21) First, what’s marketing mix modeling (MMM)?(04:45) Meridien is Google’s attempt at making marketing mix modeling accessible for businesses(08:31) And Google’s Scenario Planner makes marketing mix modeling easier for businesses(10:54) Google Scenario Planner could change how marketing strategies are built(12:48) Which organizations are likely to adopt Meridien and Scenario Planner, and marketing mix modeling? And which ones are less likely to?(16:24) Closing thoughts…

For years, digital advertising chased cheap scale. Programmatic buying promised low CPMs and limitless reach, but brands lost control of context. Ads appeared beside misinformation, low-value content, and misaligned audiences. Privacy laws tightened, cookies faded, CAC rose, and trust declined.This episode explores the rise of curated advertising — premium, handpicked environments like Private Marketplaces, trusted publishers, trade media, newsletters, communities, and AI chat surfaces. It’s a shift from buying everything to buying what’s worth it.Yes, CPMs may be higher. But the real metric is outcome. Curated advertising redefines CAC and ROAS through context, trust, and high-intent placements. Is this the end of cheap digital ads — and the return of quality?(00:00) Intro(01:28) What is curated advertising?(04:48) How does the curation mindset changes the game for SEM, social, trade media, and newsletters?(08:31) Are curated social - groups and communities - brand safe zones for advertising?(10:41) Where does chat-vertising or AI advertising sit?(12:27) Will curated advertising make online ads more premium? How will it affect CAC and ROAS?(14:30) Closing thoughts…

The deal closes. Headlines celebrate synergy. Valuations look strong. From the $5T M&A peak of 2021 to regulator-blocked moves like Adobe’s attempted acquisition of Figma, boards focus on balance sheets. But between signing and rebranding, a quieter loss unfolds. A high-ranking domain is redirected, thousands of indexed pages collapse into generic URLs, backlinks break, and AI answers stop citing the brand. Traffic fades, pipeline tightens, revenue feels it.This episode explores digital equity in M&A—your algorithmic trust across search, backlinks, structured data, and AI visibility. Not brand perception, but discoverability inside Google and AI systems. As ecosystems consolidate, like Intuit acquiring Mailchimp, marketing stacks merge and so does risk.Digital dilution is measurable: lost rankings, shrinking organic leads, broken conversions. For startups and SMBs, digital equity becomes leverage if documented, valued, and protected. Map revenue to organic traffic, plan redirects before migration, monitor branded vs non-branded search, and guard your backlinks.Because M&A doesn’t just reshape companies. It reshapes visibility. Ignore digital equity and you inherit silent loss. Protect it and it becomes strategic power.(00:00) Intro(01:23) A quick look-see of the global M&A trends in the past 5 years(03:01) M&A deals are changing how marketers work(06:12) What is digital equity, and why is it an overlooked asset in M&A deals?(10:01) Takeaways from startups or SMB marketers if their company goes through M&A(14:08) Takeaways from startups or SMB marketers if companies behind their tech tools go through M&A(15:08) The bigger picture…

At the start of the year, you open your marketing plan and wonder: is Threads worth the effort, or just another platform to maintain? When Meta launched it in 2023, 100 million users signed up in a week. Today, it sits at nearly 400 million monthly active users with strong engagement and Gen Z attention.So why aren’t marketers prioritizing Threads for marketing?This episode explores the tension between scale and significance. Threads has reach, lower ad costs, and Meta’s backing—but lacks clear positioning, mature ad products, and proven ROI stories. It feels powerful, yet undefined.Is Threads an early opportunity hiding in plain sight, or a platform still searching for its purpose? Listen in as we unpack whether it becomes a marketing essential—or remains a watchlist experiment.(00:00) Intro(01:08) Let’s start with the launch of Threads(02:44) Where does Threads stand today - users, behaviour and context(05:28) How are marketers and creators using Threads, right now?(07:40) Reasons behind why Threads is not a marketing priority, yet(10:36) What Threads is, and is not, providing to the brands, marketers and creators(12:18) What Threads needs to do going forward…(14:21) In summary…

I clear a puzzle level on my phone. Fireworks flash. A choice appears: watch 30 seconds, earn extra coins. I tap yes. That’s in-game advertising — opt-in, rewarded, seamless.In this episode, we explore why in-game advertising is becoming a core growth engine. Gaming is a $124B+ industry with 3B players across mobile, PC, console, AR, VR, and cloud. Gen Z attention lives here. Free-to-play models, rewarded video, and dynamic in-game ads are turning brands into part of the experience.From Roblox and Candy Crush to esports and console programmatic, immersion beats interruption.Is in-game advertising still experimental — or the next media pillar?(00:00) Intro(02:09) The fast-expanding world of games across platforms and geographies(07:15) What are the drivers behind pushing ads inside games?(09:08) Who’s winning with in-game advertising? Some real world examples…(13:20) Why aren’t more brands doing in-game advertising?(16:04) Which industries are taking advantage of in-game advertising quickly?(19:56) Looking through the telescope…

Two brands meet. Not on a billboard. Not in an ad break. But quietly—where trust already lives.Over the last five years, brand collaboration marketing has stopped being a flashy stunt and started behaving like a system. A new operating model for growth. One where brands borrow credibility, share culture, reduce risk, and expand meaning—together.In this episode, How brand collaborations quietly became the new marketing system, we trace how collaborations moved from hype to necessity. From product drops and shared audiences to value-led partnerships and immersive brand worlds. We unpack why some collaborations compound trust and community—while others collapse under misaligned audiences, values, or messaging.This isn’t a highlight reel. It’s a map. Of what works, what breaks, and why collaboration has become the fastest path to relevance in a trust-first, culture-driven market.Because the future of marketing isn’t brand protection.It’s brand expansion—through authentic, value-aligned partnerships.(00:00) Intro(01:13) Brand collaborations have been growing fast in the past 5 years(02:43) What kind of brand collaborations have been happening?(05:24) What are key drivers behind brand collaborations?(09:37) Situations when brand collaborations might go wrong…(14:08) Brand collaborations are here to stay…(15:49) Parting thoughts…

Late one weekend, a marketer falls down a quiet rabbit hole called Google Labs—and realizes something important is happening in plain sight.This episode explores how Google Labs tools for marketing aren’t random AI experiments, but early signals of how Google is rebuilding its entire advertising ecosystem. From AI-generated images, video, music, and copy to conversational assistants and 3D product visualization, these tools reveal a future where creative production is instant, personalization is native, and experimentation happens at scale.But the real story isn’t speed. It’s power. As Google connects these tools to Search, YouTube, Performance Max, CTV, and GA4, marketing shifts from making more content to making smarter decisions. AI removes friction. Strategy becomes the differentiator.This is the real power of Google Labs tools for marketing—and why most marketers will miss it.(00:00) Intro(01:03) AI has created a quiet revolution in marketing(04:21) Inside Google Labs’ experimental content creation toolkit(08:33) Exploring Google’s experimental, edgy tech tools(11:29) Where can these AI tools fit in Google’s ecosystem?(15:05) How will GA4 measure performance if these tools are used or integrated with the Google ecosystem?(17:49) My take on Google Labs’ experimental tools…

What if OpenAI’s biggest missing piece isn’t better models—but better intent?This episode begins with a rumor: OpenAI might acquire Pinterest. But quickly, it becomes a story about where AI, search, and marketing are actually headed. Pinterest isn’t just a visual platform. It’s where humans plan, dream, decide, and shop—leaving behind rare, intent-rich visual signals at scale.We unpack why OpenAI would care about Pinterest’s 200+ billion images, Gen Z discovery behavior, and inspiration-to-purchase loops—and how that data could reshape AI image generation, AI commerce, and future ChatGPT interfaces.For marketers, the message is clear: search is turning visual, discovery is replacing keywords, and the funnel is collapsing into moments. This isn’t M&A gossip. It’s a preview of intent-driven, visual-first marketing in the AI era.Whether the deal happens or not, the shift already has.(00:00) Intro(01:18) Why would OpenAI even want to acquire Pinterest?(05:43) Is there a lacking in OpenAI’s models when it comes to image processing and image or video generation?(10:07) The possibility of Pinterest’s UI influencing Sora and ChatGPT ads(12:15) Whether OpenAI acquires Pinterest or not, it could mean a lot to brands and marketers(15:31) What is the bigger picture that emerges from this OpenAI acquiring Pinterest speculation?

On a quiet January morning, over coffee, a single sentence captured the mood of modern marketing: “It feels like the rules keep changing, but no one tells us what the new rules are.”This episode is about those rules.As GDPR tightens enforcement and the EU AI Act comes into force, marketing enters a new phase—where data, AI, and personalization are no longer shortcuts to growth, but regulated responsibilities. Consent must be clear and provable. Cookies must be fair. AI-generated content must be disclosed. And algorithms that decide who sees what now come with legal accountability.This isn’t about killing AI or personalization. It’s about ending black-box marketing. If AI shapes targeting, profiling, or decisions, the responsibility sits with brands—not tools or platforms. And these laws don’t stop at Europe’s borders.In this episode, we break down what GDPR and the EU AI Act change in practice for email, AI content, cookies, ads, and automation—and why transparency, consent, and explainability are becoming the strongest performance levers of 2026.The future of marketing isn’t less data or less AI.It’s more responsibility, more clarity, and more trust—by design.(00:00) Intro(01:04) GDPR is seven years old and continues to change - but not necessarily simplifying things(06:47) The EU AI Act gets a makeover, and soon it will matter(08:24) What do the changes to GDPR and EU AI Act mean for the marketing toolkit?(14:17) Whom do GDPR and the EU AI Act hold responsible - companies or users?(16:06) Are GDPR and the EU AI Act applicable outside of the EU?(16:43) A few takeaways for brands and marketers(19:20) Should this worry brands and marketers?

Standing at the edge of 2025, this episode begins like a quiet realization rather than a breaking news alert. Marketing didn’t collapse under AI. It was clarified.In What I Hope for Marketing in 2026 When AI Meets Trust and Community, this story walks through a year where AI-powered search rewrote visibility, algorithms exposed empty tactics, and content abundance stripped marketing down to its core. Clicks became scarce, trust became currency, and community emerged as infrastructure—not a trend.As the noise grew louder, one truth became clearer: AI can scale speed, but it can’t scale belief. Brands that survived 2025 didn’t chase reach; they earned relevance. They didn’t automate authenticity; they designed for trust. They didn’t run campaigns alone; they built cultures people wanted to belong to.This episode looks forward to 2026 with intention and optimism—hoping for marketing where AI enhances thinking, visibility goes beyond clicks, trust is engineered into every touchpoint, and communities are treated as long-term assets.Because the future of marketing isn’t about being everywhere.It’s about being meaningful—where it matters most.(00:00) Intro(01:04) The ‘Visibility Crisis’ that brands and marketers faced in 2025(03:59) Marketers faced email marketing authentication issues(05:42) Social media marketing became more complex(07:29) AI created the paradox of content creation(08:55) Their conversion strategies had to fill the trust gap(10:02) Community-building became extremely important(11:48) 7 ways in which the marketing community coped with these shifts(16:04) What do I hope for marketing in 2026?(20:29) What marketers need to remember in 2026…

Boy, did 2025 fly by. As the year winds down, marketing finds itself at a strange, electric crossroads. Visibility broke. Conversion changed. Creation exploded. And in the quiet before 2026, everything suddenly makes sense.This episode is a short story about that convergence moment—when search slipped into conversations, when AI answers, creators, communities, CTV screens, and AR quietly replaced the ten blue links. It’s about how brands are no longer discovered, but recognized—inside ChatGPT, Reddit threads, YouTube living rooms, and Gen Z micro-communities.You’ll hear how conversion is shifting from manual targeting to algorithmic persuasion, from individuals to households, from data hacks to creative context—powered by AI ads, climate signals, and immersive AR experiences.And you’ll step into a world where content is no longer the bottleneck. AI browsers, design wars, and cinematic video tools have made speed meaningless. What matters now is meaning, storytelling, and intent.Marketing tech in 2026 isn’t about trends. It’s about execution in a system that finally matured. Grab a cuppa—this is the future marketers need to understand.(00:00) Intro(01:12) How people discover you, or you become visible to them, is actually changing (and fast!)(08:41) How is the process of turning attention into action changing?(11:50) Content creation tools are on overdrive, thanks to AI(15:17) What I expect all this tech to do for brands and marketers in 2026?

In 2025, the social web is quietly shifting. Feeds are fading, and “inner circles” are rising. When TikTok launched Bulletin Boards, it seemed like just another feature—until creators realized it unlocked something the algorithm never could: direct, intimate community. Suddenly, platforms everywhere began rebuilding smaller, quieter digital rooms where real connection lives again.This episode dives into the return of micro-communities—why users crave them, why creators are reclaiming control, and why brands must learn to build belonging instead of chasing reach. From VIP groups to thought-leader hubs, the future of marketing belongs to those who can nurture community, not the feed. Step inside the new era where conversations go deeper, relationships get stronger, and loyalty grows in the spaces that feel like home.(00:00) Intro(00:55) Let’s talk about TikTok’s Bulletin Boards(03:19) Bulletin Boards have a nostalgic echo(04:44) TikTok’s Bulletin Boards is similar to what other social platforms have(07:32) Why are social platforms focusing on community features?(10:54) Practical ways B2C and B2B brands can benefit from online communities(13:33) Build an online community, but keep an eye on the challenges, too(14:43) Where is all this headed?

When Adobe bought SEMRush for $1.9bn, it wasn’t just another tech acquisition—it was a signal. A signal that traditional SEO, Google-first thinking, and old visibility playbooks are collapsing faster than marketers expected. In this episode, we break down why Adobe made this move, what SEMRush brings to the table, and how AI-powered search is rewriting the rules of online discovery. From Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) to AI Overviews and brand citations inside ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google’s AI, this is the new battlefield for visibility. If you run an e-commerce brand, a B2B company, or depend on organic traffic in any way, this episode will help you understand what’s changing—and how to stay visible when AI systems decide which brands get mentioned next.(00:00) Intro(01:29) Let’s start with a snapshot of the Adobe and SEMRush deal(03:15) Digging a bit deeper into the reasons why Adobe acquired SEMRush(04:50) How is Adobe is likely to fit SEMRush into its marketing toolbox?(07:29) What will happen to the SEMRush brand and product?(09:44) What is the view of the SEO community?(11:16) What the key takeaways for e-Commerce and B2B marketers?(14:22) Parting thoughts…

Social media isn’t just for posts anymore — it’s a binge-worthy streaming platform, and brands are turning into mini studios. In this episode, we dive into the rise of scripted social media series: entertaining, episodic content created by brands like Bilt, Alexis Bittar, Nike, and RedBull. From unbranded mockumentaries to AI-generated stories, discover how these series hook Gen Z and millennials, build communities, and redefine marketing. Learn why traditional ads are fading, how storytelling drives engagement, and why the future of social media marketing may look more like TV shows than commercials.(00:00) Intro(01:19) Why are brands creating scripted series for social media series?(04:22) Who’s engaging with these scripted series and what does the data say?(07:17) Scripted social is bringing the unbranded marketing trend with it…(09:57) … and changing the traditional social media content strategy.(12:52) Community building is the real value of scripted social(13:58) What is the likely impact on B2B marketing strategies?(15:37) Can scripted social series lead to conversions?(17:45) How does marketing look like in the new world of scripted social?

We’ve quietly entered a new era of communication—one that could change everything about marketing. Google, Meta, and Apple have all launched live translation technology, turning phones, glasses, and earbuds into real-time language bridges. And nobody is talking about what this means for marketers.In this episode, we explore how live translation works, why the tech giants invested heavily in it, and most importantly, how brands can use it to reach new audiences, unlock global organic discovery, and prepare for a world where language is no longer a barrier.From first-party language preference data to multilingual ad targeting and global content reach, this shift opens opportunities that were impossible before.The real question is: Will you prepare now—or play catch-up later?Listen to find out how to build marketing strategies for the translation-powered future.(00:00) Intro(00:53) The unraveling of the live translation tech(03:00) How does the live translation tech work?(08:25) How can marketers use live translation for ad targeting?(11:56) How can live translation tech enable organic reach opportunities for marketers?(14:49) What can marketers do to prepare for the opportunities live translation tech brings?(17:22) Taking a look at the bigger picture…

In this episode, we dive into the creative-software shakeup every marketer is feeling. Adobe is no longer the unquestioned king. Canva just made Affinity completely free. Apple grabbed Pixelmator. DaVinci Resolve keeps pushing pro-grade tools at zero cost. And AI is flooding every app.What does this mean for marketers, creators, brands, and anyone who touches design or video? A lot. Costs are shifting. Workflows are breaking. New options look tempting—but also overwhelming.This episode unpacks the Adobe vs Canva battle, the rise of free pro tools, the role of AI in reshaping creative work, and how marketers can navigate this new chaos with clarity instead of confusion.If you’ve ever wondered which tools to choose—or how to future-proof your creative stack—this one’s for you.(00:00) Intro(01:47) Adobe is swarmed with tough competition(08:11) Why are people looking away or switching from Adobe?(11:27) AI is the shared battleground for Adobe and Canva, but with different approaches(13:57) Adobe vs Others: What are their strengths and weaknesses?(17:26) Is having too many options good or bad for marketers and creators?(19:56) Can AI level the creative app playing field?(21:29) And what should creators and marketers do?

Once upon a time, YouTube was just where we watched videos. Now, it’s coming for your living room, your ad budgets, and your favorite podcasts. In this episode, we dive into YouTube’s masterplan—a bold move to dominate Connected TV, programmatic advertising, and podcasting all at once.Imagine scrolling through your TV, seeing shoppable videos, AI-optimized ads, and even your favorite podcasts playing on the big screen. That’s not the future—it’s happening now.We unpack how YouTube is turning CTV into the next big advertising frontier, using PMAX and AI Max to automate campaigns and track results in real time. And while Spotify built the podcast boom, YouTube is quietly taking it over with AI-powered discovery, Shorts integration, and monetization that creators can’t resist.🎧 Step inside YouTube’s world takeover—where TV meets AI, and the future of marketing begins.(00:00) Intro(01:16) YouTube’s big push towards the (C)TV in your living room(08:37) How does YouTube aim to solve CTV’s measurement problem?(10:33) The not-so-hidden podcast dominance play(14:21) The new YouTube Studio is making AI your co-creator(16:16) The future of marketing and media

The creator economy is being rewritten — and it starts with The Sora Effect. In this episode, we uncover how AI video tools like Sora are transforming identity into digital assets, reshaping how creators earn, and redefining what’s “real” online. From the rise of the Identity Economy to the mid-tier creator squeeze and the crisis of brand authenticity, we explore who truly owns your face, your voice, and your digital twin in this new AI-powered era. Discover how creators, brands, and marketers can protect their identity, build trust, and thrive when authenticity becomes the ultimate currency.🎧 Listen now to understand how The Sora Effect will forever change creativity, influence, and digital identity.(00:00) Intro(02:20) The Sora Effect: New Digital Identity Economy(05:32) Potential disruption in the creator economy(12:23) What does brand identity look like in this AI age?(16:20) The new regulatory and ethical frontiers(18:38) What can brands, marketers and creators do today?

Social media just changed — again. But this time, AI flipped the script. In this episode of Likely Marketing, we unpack “The Sora Effect” — how OpenAI’s Sora is shifting social media from viral reach to real relationships. Discover why engagement metrics are collapsing, how platforms like Meta, YouTube, and LinkedIn are returning to social graphs, and what this means for brands built on virality.We’ll explore:Why Sora prioritizes creativity over compulsive engagementThe rise of micro-communities and “permission-first” marketingHow to survive (and thrive) in the era of limited reachIf you’re a marketer, creator, or brand strategist — this is your blueprint for the post-viral era.(00:00) Intro(02:05) Sora is based on social graphs… but why?(06:10) ‘The Sora Effect’ will flip marketing strategies upside-down(13:52) It is creating the engagement paradox that has significant potential(17:37) How can brands survive (and thrive in) the ‘The Sora Effect’?

AI has officially broken video production — and marketing will never be the same. 🎬 In this episode, “’The Sora Effect’ on Marketing: How AI Just Broke Video Production”, we explore how OpenAI’s Sora 2 and rivals like Veo 3 and Meta AI are redefining how brands create, test, and scale content. From eliminating production barriers to reshaping brand storytelling, The Sora Effect marks a new era where filmmaking becomes typing. Discover how this “video production revolution” impacts marketers, brand strategy, creative hierarchies, and authenticity in the age of AI-generated videos. Whether you’re a marketer, creator, or brand strategist — this episode decodes the future of video marketing in the AI era.(00:00) Intro(02:17) ‘The Sora Effect’ driven by Sora 2, Veo 3, Meta AI and more(06:42) Impact of ‘The Sora Effect’ on brand content strategy(14:02) The shadows of democratization of video production(19:44) A few takeaways for marketers

The AI Browser War has begun — and it’s reshaping marketing faster than anyone expected. In this episode, we explore how a new generation of AI-native browsers like Dia, Perplexity’s Comet, and Opera Neon are transforming how people browse, discover, and buy online. From AI-powered Skills, Shortcuts, and Cards to AI-driven recommendations, these browsers don’t just show content — they think **for users.What does this mean for marketers? A complete rethink of SEO, AI Optimization (AIO), and Answer Engine Optimization (AEO). Discover how to make your brand AI-discoverable, build trust in an AI-first web, and prepare for marketing in a world where visibility depends on algorithms that recommend, not rank.👉 Tune in to uncover the marketing playbook for the AI browser era.(00:00) Intro(01:01) Little AI helpers that helped browsers become smart(02:27) The new generation of AI Browsers(04:08) AI browsers have advanced features which will impact marketing(11:07) Where do AI browsers go from here?(16:22) What does the rise of AI browsers mean for marketers?

From Netscape to Chrome, the web browser war wasn’t just about speed or design—it was about culture, control, and marketing power. In this episode, we uncover how browsers evolved from simple gateways to cultural signals, shaping how people explore, behave, and buy online. Discover how the first browser war redefined digital distribution, how Chrome turned browsing into a behavioral data goldmine, and how each browser became a reflection of user identity. For marketers, every tab, cookie, and click became a story. This is the hidden marketing evolution behind the browser you use every day.(00:00) Intro(00:58) The First Browser War: The fierce beginning of online search(02:35) Google Chrome: Its rise as the true winner(04:19) Web browsers became indicators of user personality and culture(06:28) How did the browsers became marketers’ playground?(11:13) A few more points…

The Tango of AI and marketing is here—and it’s changing everything. In this episode, we explore how marketers moved from being spreadsheet wizards to embracing AI tools that promised speed and scale, only to discover new challenges of trust, brand voice, and creativity. The magic of AI isn’t in replacing humans but in learning to dance with it. Enter “Craft & Calibrate”—an approach where data guides discovery, and human creativity leads the way. From automation to empathy, from prompt engineering to storytelling, this is how AI and marketers can co-create campaigns that are not just efficient, but deeply human. Tune in to learn how to thrive in the new era where machines amplify imagination, and marketing becomes more human than ever.(00:00) Intro(01:12) Over time, marketers became spreadsheet wizards.(03:58) And then, AI showed up like a tornado!(07:11) Now, the AI magic seems to dissipate(10:06) This new reality of AI and marketing requires a new approach(14:35) The ‘Craft & Calibrate’ approach is a Tango between AI and humans(16:36) A few more parting thoughts…

Chat-vertising is here—but is it working?In this episode, we dive into the rise of AI chat ads—from Perplexity’s sponsored follow-up questions to Google’s AI Overviews and Microsoft’s Copilot Showroom ads. While Google pushes forward, Perplexity has hit pause, raising a big question: Can advertising inside AI chats actually work?We explore:Why Perplexity pulled back on adsHow Google and Microsoft are shaping the future of AI-driven advertisingThe challenges of chat-vertising: user trust, UX, and conversionsWhat marketers should do now to prepare🎧 Join us as we uncover whether AI chat ads will transform marketing—or remain an experiment.(00:00) Intro(01:20) Perplexity’s pivot from ad enthusiasm to hitting pause button on ads(03:19) How are Google and others bringing ads to their AI products?(05:39) What makes ‘chat-vertising’ hard to implement?(11:06) What can AI platforms do to make ‘chat-vertising’ viable?(14:43) How can marketers prepare for the ‘chat-vertising’ future, today?

Gen Zs are taking over the global workforce—and with it, the rules of B2B marketing are being rewritten. In this episode, we explore how digital natives are reshaping search, engagement, and decision-making in the professional world. From LinkedIn’s transformation into a people-first platform to Gen Z’s preference for authenticity, short-form video, and social search over Google, the traditional B2B playbook no longer works. Discover why “people-centric marketing” and employee advocacy are becoming essential, how brands can win with authentic voices instead of corporate polish, and what the future of B2B marketing looks like in a Gen Z-driven world. Whether you’re a marketer, business owner, or brand leader, this episode unpacks the shift you can’t afford to ignore.(00:00) Intro(01:37) The Gen Z takeover of the global workforce(02:37) So, it’s important to understand how Gen Z thinks and behaves online(05:34) which is influencing LinkedIn’s shift in its identity.(07:20) B2B marketing is being pulled from all sides(08:59) ‘People-centric marketing’ is now at the core of brand strategy(11:33) Looking ahead at the future of B2B marketing to Gen Zs

Spatial Foundation Models (SFMs) are more than a buzzword—they could redefine marketing. Unlike flat AI tools that think in text or pixels, SFMs understand the world in 3D, with physics, depth, and context. In this episode, we unpack what SFMs are, why they’re not a gimmick, and how companies like SpAItial, Tencent, and World Labs are building them. Discover how SFMs can transform marketing—immersive product demos, real estate walkthroughs, experiential campaigns, and B2B storytelling. We also explore challenges like computing power, spatial deepfakes, and UX adoption. Marketers will learn how to prepare now for the spatial AI era, where content goes beyond screens and into explorable 3D spaces.(00:00) Intro(01:00) What are Spatial Foundation Models or SFMs? And why they are not a gimmick?(03:50) Companies that are developing their own SFMs(06:49) What SFMs can do for Marketing?(09:15) How can SFMs change the world around us (and create more ways to market products and services)?(12:33) What are the challenges and risks associated with SFMs?(15:14) What marketers can do today to prepare for SFMs?Link to Episode on "Interactive Worlds, Infinite Potential: The New Age of Immersive Marketing": https://bit.ly/likelymktg_ep62

Is TL;DR marketing killing long-form content—or reshaping it? In this episode, we unpack how “Too Long; Didn’t Read” has become the default filter for digital audiences and what it means for content creators, brands, and marketers. You’ll learn why attention spans are shrinking, how to design an “attention architecture” that serves both scanners and deep readers, and the do’s and don’ts of TL;DR marketing across blogs, podcasts, video, email, and social platforms. We’ll also explore metrics that matter—like progression, shareability, and action completion—and why balancing brevity with depth is the key to thriving in today’s attention economy. Discover how to adapt your content strategy, optimize for SEO, AIO, and voice search, and future-proof your marketing with TL;DR summaries that hook, retain, and convert.(00:00) Intro(00:50) Does the rise of TL;DR kill long-form content entirely?(02:33) The “attention architecture” of long-form content now requires a new content hierarchy(06:18) How to apply the “attention architecture” to your content(09:41) Do’s and don’ts of TL;DR marketing(12:06) How to measure success of long-form content in a TL;DR world(13:49) Moving towards a fascinating future of the attention culture

In this episode of Likely Marketing, Shiv unpacks the rise of TL;DR marketing—how “Too Long; Didn’t Read” went from forum slang to a global shift in how we consume and create content. Discover the origins of TL;DR, the data behind shrinking attention spans, and why short, sharp summaries dominate today’s feeds, emails, and videos. Learn how marketers can turn this challenge into an opportunity by mastering layered communication: hooks that grab attention, TL;DR summaries that deliver value fast, and deeper content for those ready to engage. If you’re a marketer, creator, or brand navigating the attention economy, this episode is your guide to thriving in the era of TL;DR.(00:00) Intro(01:03) The origins of TL;DR (Too Long; Didn’t Read), and why we use it(03:13) The data behind our shrinking attention (and growth of TL;DR)(06:31) What does this tell us about user behaviour?(07:35) The paradox of information abundance…(09:30) …has major implications for marketing

Bluesky is rewriting the rules of social media with its new "Live Now" badge—a feature that encourages users to leave the app and watch livestreams on YouTube, Twitch, or other platforms. In this episode, we explore what this bold move means for open social media, creators, brands, and marketers. From boosting cross-platform reach to building authentic communities, Bluesky’s open-door approach could signal the end of the walled-garden era. We dive into the opportunities, challenges, and the bigger trend toward decentralized, interconnected networks. Is this the future of social media—and can brands keep up?(00:00) Intro(01:18) What is ‘Live Now’ badge on Bluesky? And what does it do?(02:32) Why would Bluesky be okay with sending its users away?(03:53) How could this feature impact the creator community?(05:34) What kind of opportunities and challenges for brands and marketers are there with a Live Now badge?(08:02) Is Live Now badge sign of an emerging trend of social media opening up?(10:30) What would an open social media landscape mean for brands and marketers?(12:42) Where do we go from here?

Organic reach may be shrinking, but in 2025, smart brands know organic social media is more valuable than ever. In this episode, discover 8 practical social media strategies for 2025 to build trust, drive long-term ROI, and create loyal communities. We explore why consistency beats virality, how micro-communities amplify your brand, and why authentic engagement outperforms short-term tactics. Backed by data from Sprout Social, Buffer, and Nielsen, learn how to shift from reach to relationships, leverage AI for efficiency (not replacement), and develop metrics that align with long-term success. If you’re ready to future-proof your organic strategy, this is your roadmap.(00:00) Intro(01:26) Why organic social media still matters in 2025 and beyond?(05:53) Is there a correlation between consistent social media marketing and online brand presence?(08:49) Long-term view of social media marketing pays off(12:06) 8 practical social media marketing strategies for 2025 and beyond(16:19) Wrapping up…

Organic reach is crashing. The obsession with going viral? Skyrocketing. In this episode, we unpack why most brands are still chasing viral social media marketing even as platforms throttle organic visibility. Discover the real numbers behind declining reach, why AI is intensifying the content arms race, and the truth behind virality myths. From inflated expectations to overlooked strategy, this is the raw, data-backed reality of social media in 2025. If you're a marketer, brand leader, or creator, this episode will challenge your assumptions—and help you think beyond the viral trap.(00:00) Intro(01:24) Decaying reach of organic social media marketing(06:59) The toxic obsession with going viral on social media(15:04) AI is fanning the obsession of viral content at scale(18:53) Growing apathy towards marketing and customers

Can mesh networks rewrite the rules of marketing? In this episode, we dive into the offline-first world of Bitchat and explore how mesh networking could revolutionize communication—and disrupt marketing as we know it. What happens when messages travel device to device, without centralized servers, tracking, or ads? Discover how hyperlocal networks could empower communities, reshape advertising, and redefine what it means to reach an audience. Tune in to explore the future of marketing without the Internet.(00:00) Intro(01:08) Mesh networks could change how we communicate(05:41) Local communities would become prominent(07:05) Marketing and advertising in a mesh networking world(08:48) Mesh networks: Challenges to their adoption and marketing(12:11) How mesh networks could potentially change marketing

What if messaging worked without the Internet? In this episode, Shiv dives into Bitchat—Jack Dorsey’s experimental, offline-first messaging app. Built on Bluetooth mesh networks, Bitchat enables encrypted, peer-to-peer communication without servers, cell towers, or WiFi. We unpack how it works, the tech behind it, its privacy promise, and the serious questions it raises about security, trust, and the future of decentralized messaging. Could this be the next step after Twitter, BlueSky, and Nostr? Tune in to explore how Bitchat could reshape human connection—and why it matters for marketers, technologists, and anyone thinking beyond today’s Internet.(00:00) Intro(00:43) What is Bitchat?(03:56) Technologies that make Bitchat work(05:57) that would require a reliable infrastructure.(08:46) The tech behind Bitchat is novel, but not new.(10:21) Bitchat has some major security concerns(11:45) Looking ahead at Bitchat and the future of offline tech

Local discovery has moved. Are you keeping up?In this episode of Likely Marketing, Shiv unpacks the rise of local social SEO—where social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok now drive local business discovery more than Google Maps or directories ever could.From Gen Z’s shift to social search, to how Google’s AI ranks businesses based on social signals, and the emerging role of AR and voice search in local discovery—this episode is a deep dive into the future of local SEO.You’ll learn:Why traditional SEO is no longer enoughHow to optimize your social profiles and content for local impact3 advanced local social SEO strategies that actually workWhat AR, AI, and social commerce mean for your business visibilityWhether you run a bakery, yoga studio, or retail shop—this episode is your playbook for winning local audiences in 2025.🎧 Tune in to future-proof your digital marketing strategy.(00:00) Intro(00:36) Shifts in user behaviour and web traffic composition are changing local SEO(02:50) The deepening connection between social media and local SEO(06:50) How can you optimize for local SEO on social media?(10:19) 3 advanced local social SEO strategies(12:09) The road ahead for local social SEO and digital marketing(14:46) Few more thoughts…

Social media is no longer just about trends—it’s becoming a full-fledged AI-powered discovery engine. In this episode, we unpack AIO (Artificial Intelligence Optimization) and how it's redefining content discovery on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Meta. You'll learn how to build AIO strategies for social media that help your content get picked up by AI systems and served at the right moment. We cover what AIO looks like in real life, how it differs from SEO, and how to create content AI and humans love. From tools to tactics, this is your guide to building a future-proof content strategy in the AI era. Listen now.(00:00) Intro(00:42) What exactly is AIO, and why should you care?(04:20) How does AIO look like on social media platforms?(07:09) How to build content strategy in the AIO world?(11:31) Which tools can you help you implement your AIO strategies?(13:23) A quick recap…

What if marketing wasn’t something you saw — but something you felt? In this episode, we explore ambient marketing powered by multimodal, agentic AI and proactive devices. Discover how AI systems that understand your context, preferences, and social environment are changing how businesses reach people — without ads. We dive into agentic AI, AI-to-AI marketing, social intelligence, and how future tech could create hyper-personalized, community-driven experiences. Learn how ambient ecosystems may shift marketing from persuasion to presence.(00:00) Intro(01:01) AI is becoming proactive with the rise of agentic AI(03:25) The exciting, yet puzzling world of AI-to-AI marketing(04:39) still needs a missing piece - social intelligence(05:43) Building the ambient marketing ecosystem(07:44) requires a robust technology stack(08:49) and building hyper-engaged communities.(10:36) Amazing opportunities that could emerge from Ambient Marketing ecosystems(12:26) A curious look into the future…

What happens when AI becomes ambient—always present, always listening, always helpful? In this episode, we explore the future of ambient marketing through the lens of OpenAI and Jony Ive’s groundbreaking collaboration. Discover how multimodal AI, long memory, and smart hardware like Meta’s Ray-Ban glasses are converging to transform marketing from reactive to deeply personalized. Learn how brands can engage in real-time, context-aware moments that feel less like ads and more like assistance. This is the experience shift—marketing that adapts to you.(00:00) Intro(01:24) The rise of multimodal AI - translating data modalities into hyper-personalization(04:18) Two things enabling multimodality - architecture and long memory(06:09) Ambient hardware - enabling AI more helpful and marketing more personalized(08:15) Still, there are challenges of natural interaction(09:10) Setting the stage for ambient marketing…

How do you actually measure AR marketing performance? In this episode of Likely Marketing, Shiv dives deep into attribution models, KPIs, and tools to track the ROI of augmented reality campaigns. Learn how brands like Sephora and Warby Parker use AR to influence purchase behavior, reduce returns, and drive engagement. Discover 14 tools for AR measurement, explore different attribution models, and understand how AR is shaping the future of customer experiences. Whether you're in D2C or B2B, this episode will help you unlock the full marketing potential of AR.(00:00) Intro(00:51) What are the key challenges in attribution in AR marketing?(03:01) What are the various attribution models that can be used to measure AR marketing?(05:13) 14 tools that can help measure AR marketing performance(08:27) What are good KPIs for AR marketing?(11:03) What is the likely future of AR in marketing?(13:28) To sum it up…

AR in marketing isn’t just hype—it’s here, and it’s transforming how brands connect with customers. In this episode of Likely Marketing, Shiv explores the explosive growth of Augmented Reality (AR) and why it's becoming a must-have tool for marketers. Learn how platforms like Snapchat, Apple, Meta, and Google are fueling AR adoption, and discover how top D2C and B2B brands—like Warby Parker, Sephora, IKEA, Boeing, and Johnson & Johnson—are using AR to create immersive, personalized experiences. From virtual try-ons to AR-powered training, AR is bridging the gap between digital and physical, solving real-world problems, and driving serious business value. If you're a marketer looking to elevate your strategy, this episode will show you how AR is reshaping customer engagement today—and where it’s heading next. Don't miss this deep dive into the future of AR in marketing!🔔 Subscribe for more insights on the future of marketing.🎧 Available on all major podcast platforms.(00:00) Intro(00:44) How does AR adoption look like right now?(02:02) Digital platforms that supporting the growth of AR adoption(03:13) Brands that are winning with AR(06:11) How is AR elevating the customer experience?(08:26) Wrapping up

The internet is evolving fast—and so must your marketing strategy. In this episode of Likely Marketing, we explore the most critical internet trends reshaping search, SEO, and digital strategy. From the rise of platform-specific search on TikTok, Reddit, and Amazon to the growing dominance of AI assistants like ChatGPT, discover how marketers must adapt in a world moving toward AI-overviews and no-click search. Learn why the open web is fading, how brand visibility now requires multi-platform optimization, and what a future-proof SEO approach looks like. Stay ahead—understand the trends shaping tomorrow’s marketing.(00:00) Intro(01:11) Impact of AI on online search market,(05:22) which is would reshape SEO as we know it.(08:23) Reshaping of web means there have to be shifts in digital strategies, too.(09:34) Key takeaways for marketers(13:55) 5 recommendations for marketers to prepare for this silent AI web revolution(15:35) Final thoughts

AI is fundamentally reshaping the internet. In this episode, we unpack insights from Cloudflare CEO Matthew Prince on the rapid rise of AI traffic, the shift from open web to private platforms, and how search is evolving. Discover why Google searches are declining, how TikTok and messaging apps are becoming new discovery tools, and what this means for the future of marketing, security, and online behavior. If you want to understand where the web is headed—and what role AI will play—this episode is a must-listen.(00:00) Intro(00:49) Takeaways from the interview on how AI is changing the web(06:31) Similar findings on shifts in online search from other authoritative sources(11:31) What does future of web look like?

Reddit just posted a 44% YoY revenue jump and 82M+ daily users. In this episode, we dive into what Reddit’s Q1 results mean for marketers. From D2C brands tapping into niche subreddits to Reddit’s rising potential in AI search, we explore how and why Reddit deserves serious attention in your 2025 marketing strategy. Plus: the platform’s ad evolution, its role in the shift toward open content, B2B challenges, and what marketers need to know about its unique community-first culture. Is Reddit the next big growth channel? Let’s find out.(00:00) Intro(00:57) Key takeaways from Reddit’s Q1 performance report(02:29) Can Reddit be the next big thing for D2C brands? And, possibly B2B brands?(06:56) Reddit's openness: Strategic advantage or temporary state?(09:30) Reddit vs rise of decentralized social media(11:33) Reddit as an AI search gateway(13:35) Wrapping up: What should marketers do?

Google's AI Overviews are transforming search—and reshaping SEO, traffic, and ad strategies. In this episode, we explore what AIO is, where it's expanding, and how it's impacting website clicks across industries like travel, healthcare, and tech. Is AIO a threat to OpenAI and Anthropic? What does it mean for marketers and content creators? Get 7 actionable tips to optimize your site for AI-powered search and stay ahead in an AI-first web. If you're serious about SEO, this episode is your new roadmap.(00:00) Intro(01:12) What’s Google’s AI Overview (AIO) and where is it expanding?(03:36) Is Google’s AIO a direct competitor to OpenAI, Anthropic and other models?(06:10) What is the impact of Google’s AIOs on website traffic?(08:41) How will Google AIOs impact ads and ad budgets?(10:02) 7 quick tips to optimize for Google’s AIOs(12:59) What lies ahead for SEO in an AI-first world of online search?(14:39) Final thoughts…