Explore every episode of the podcast PPC Live The Podcast - The F*ck ups that led to Triumphs
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Learning Phase: A $50K PPC Mistake and What It Taught Me ft. Arin Gharapetian | 16 Sep 2026 | 00:38:49 | |
In this episode, Arin Gharapetian shares his insights on digital marketing, the importance of understanding client processes, and lessons learned from mistakes in paid search campaigns. Discover practical tips for managing campaigns, avoiding common pitfalls, and leveraging AI effectively. Key topics The importance of understanding client processes in campaign management Lessons learned from a $50,000 Google Ads campaign mistake Strategies for effective communication with stakeholders The role of AI and automation in modern marketing Best practices for tracking conversions and measuring success The significance of patience and testing in campaign optimization How to handle industry updates and changes effectively The value of owning mistakes and learning from them Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Arin Gharapetian and his expertise 02:08 Arin's background and approach to marketing for healthcare and service businesses 04:30 Arin shares a costly Google Ads mistake involving bid strategy changes 07:42 The importance of cross-department communication in campaign success 10:39 Lessons on testing, patience, and learning from campaign mistakes 13:11 Handling industry updates and AI tools responsibly 16:02 Advice for managing mistakes and stakeholder expectations 18:32 Implementing new processes and continuous learning in campaign management 21:02 Key takeaways: embracing mistakes and ongoing education 22:05 Common industry mistakes and how to avoid them 24:41 The impact of AI on marketing and what to watch out for 28:13 Final thoughts on AI, industry changes, and continuous improvement Find Arin on LinkedIn Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| Google Ads AI Isn’t Strategic — You Still Need to Be ft Mike Ryan | 09 Sep 2026 | 00:50:05 | |
In this episode, Mike Ryan shares his experiences with AI Max, campaign mistakes, and lessons learned in PPC management. Discover practical insights on avoiding common pitfalls and leveraging data effectively. Key topics
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and guest background 02:05 Mike's role and expertise in PPC 05:03 The importance of sharing mistakes and lessons 07:01 Mike's experience with AI Max and early mistakes 10:09 How AI Max can target competitor terms unexpectedly 13:07 The importance of checking search terms early 16:57 The impact of market fears on ROAS targets 19:59 Controlling AI Max with negative keywords and settings 22:58 The significance of data consolidation and segmentation 26:57 Advice for avoiding campaign pitfalls 30:05 Responding to campaign errors with transparency 33:57 The evolving role of campaign structure and guardrails 37:06 New Google updates and strategic responses 40:07 Behavioral responses to Google's August 17 update 45:00 Market-wide effects of ROAS target changes Find Mike on LinkedIn Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| We Wasted 4 Months Optimizing for the Wrong Leads ft. Saif Al-Jabbar Khan | 02 Sep 2026 | 00:45:34 | |
Saif Al-Jabbar Khan shares his journey from a DevOps engineer to a successful paid search marketer, highlighting key lessons from his experiences with client management, conversion tracking, and AI integration in digital marketing. Key topics
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Background 03:58 The Importance of Qualified Lead Definition 11:52 Improving Lead Qualification Rates 15:49 The Role of Landing Pages and Client Communication 20:04 Adapting Strategies Based on Data Insights 22:09 The Impact of Data and System Changes 24:00 Advice for Paid Search Marketers Facing Crises 26:00 Reviewing and Refining Lead Criteria 30:03 Common Mistakes in Account Management 33:56 Using AI for Nuanced Account Analysis 36:02 WhatsApp as a Key Channel in Dubai 38:08 AI and Privacy Considerations 42:09 The Role of Journey Aware Bidding 43:47 Final Tips for Paid Search Success 45:02 Fun Question: PPC Movie Title 45:57 Upcoming Events and Networking Opportunities Find Saif on LinkedIn Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| Conversion Tracking, AI & the PPC Fundamentals We Keep Forgetting ft Lisandro Franky IV | 26 Aug 2026 | 00:51:02 | |
In this episode, Lisandro Franky shares insights on conversion tracking mistakes, industry responses to AI, and best practices for digital marketing success. Key topics
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Frankie and his background 02:10 Frankie’s experience with digital marketing and AI 05:39 Common mistakes in conversion tracking 09:09 Detecting and fixing tracking issues 14:07 Human vs system errors in data feed 20:22 Building anomaly detection platforms 27:09 Fixing data feed issues in bidding platforms 36:30 Importance of data granularity and account management 44:28 Privacy and ethical considerations in AI use 45:05 Frankie’s advice for marketers facing tracking issues Find Franky on LinkedIn and Mochee Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| Why Optimizing Google Ads Wasn’t Fixing Revenue ft Craig Graham | 19 Aug 2026 | 00:51:48 | |
In this episode, Craig shares insights from managing over 100 million dollars in ad spend, discusses the complexities of attribution in marketing, and reveals common mistakes in paid media management. Learn how to connect the dots across channels and avoid costly errors. key topics The complexity of attribution systems Connecting marketing channels for better insights Common mistakes in conversion tracking The importance of holistic marketing systems The role of AI in marketing attribution Lessons from managing over 100 million in ad spend The impact of Google updates on marketing strategies Strategies for effective cross-channel marketing Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Craig and his expertise in paid media 02:00 Creating effective attribution systems in healthcare 04:05 Understanding different attribution models for channels 05:05 The role of AI in marketing attribution 07:01 Balancing work and family life as a remote worker 08:58 Adapting to pandemic conditions and remote work 11:04 Early career challenges with marketing and attribution 13:04 The importance of understanding business-level metrics 15:55 Connecting financial data with marketing efforts 18:55 The system approach to marketing and business success 22:00 Common mistakes in marketing accounts and how to avoid them 35:03 The impact of Google updates and how to adapt 45:04 The importance of continuous learning and adaptation Find Craig on Linkedin Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| Ginny Marvin on PPC Mistakes, Leadership & Trust | 12 Aug 2026 | 00:52:28 | |
In this episode, Ginny Marvin shares her extensive experience in digital marketing, insights on Google Ads updates, and practical advice on managing mistakes and international client relationships. Key Topics: Ginny Marvin's career journey and experience in digital marketingInsights on Google Ads updates and best practices Strategies for managing mistakes and rebuilding client trustTips for working with international clients across time zones The importance of fundamentals and continuous learning in PPCChapters 00:00 Introduction to Ginny Marvin and her career in digital marketing 02:01 Ginny's experience at Google and her industry insights 04:01 The importance of learning and staying updated in PPC 07:00 A memorable mistake and lessons learned in campaign management 10:01 Handling international clients and managing time zone differences 14:59 Supporting team members through mistakes and fostering growth 19:59 The role of fundamentals and continuous education in PPC 24:58 Preparing for upcoming Google Ads (August 17) updates and industry changes 30:07 Key takeaways on learning from mistakes and process improvement 39:49 The evolving landscape of AI and automation in advertising 44:46 Final thoughts and upcoming industry events Follow Ginny: How to Prepare for Google Ads’ August 17 | |||
| The £10,000 Google Ads Mistake ft Scott Carruthers | 05 Aug 2026 | 00:43:58 | |
In this episode, Scott shares his extensive experience in paid search, discusses common mistakes in Google Ads management, and offers practical advice on avoiding costly errors. Tune in to learn how to optimize your campaigns and leverage AI responsibly. Key Topics:
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Scott and his background 01:00 Scott's experience with public speaking and industry involvement 03:39 Scott's personal fun fact: walking 100,000 steps in a day 06:13 Scott's first major mistake: booking his stag do on the same weekend as a speaking engagement 08:06 The costly mistake of overspending with Smart Bidding 12:42 Rebuilding trust after a campaign budget error 17:33 Impact of new tools and updates in PPC 20:44 Key takeaway: monitor significant changes in campaigns 24:17 Misconceptions about Performance Max audiences 26:24 Using audience targeting effectively in Performance Max 28:12 The debate over broad match versus phrase and exact match 29:21 Common AI mistakes in PPC and how to use it responsibly 32:24 Communicating AI insights to clients 34:13 Scott's movie title: The Problem Is The Job Find Scott on LinkedIn Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| Why "Best Practice" Cost My Client 40% of Their Revenue ft Ana Kostic | 29 Jul 2026 | 00:49:26 | |
In this episode, Ana Kostic shares her journey in PPC, a major mistake involving account restructuring, and lessons learned about business stability and AI in advertising. key topics Account restructuring and its impact on performance The importance of understanding business metrics in PPC Effective communication with clients during crises Using AI responsibly in digital marketing Lessons learned from a significant PPC mistake Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Ana Kostic and her background 01:14 Ana's journey in PPC and her experience in Spain 02:48 Ana's fun fact: Traveling as a digital nomad 05:51 The major mistake: Account restructuring and traffic drop 09:37 The emotional and business impact of restructuring 14:20 Support from management and learning from mistakes 19:42 Signs to watch for before restructuring an account 22:45 Stability vs. growth in PPC strategies 24:07 Handling client communication during performance drops 26:40 Lessons learned: Business understanding and account management 34:38 Common PPC mistakes in 2026 and how to avoid them 36:48 AI in Google Ads: Best practices and pitfalls 41:15 Using AI creatively and responsibly in campaigns 43:14 Ana's movie: Big with Tom Hanks 44:12 Upcoming events and where to find Ana guest links Ana Kostic on LinkedIn - es.linkedin.com/in/anakostic/en PPC Live - https://www.ppc.live | |||
| The £50 Ad That Cost £1,000 ft. Heather Robinson | 15 Jul 2026 | 00:36:55 | |
In this episode, Heather Robinson, a seasoned Google Ads specialist, shares her journey into freelancing, the importance of community, and valuable lessons from her biggest F ups in PPC. Discover practical advice on avoiding common mistakes, the role of honesty with clients, and how testing and transparency can build trust and success. Key Topics:
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Heather Robinson 02:54 The Journey to Freelancing 05:56 The Importance of Community for Freelancers 08:59 Learning from Mistakes: The F-Up Story 12:03 Client Communication and Honesty 15:09 Mistakes in PPC: Common Pitfalls 17:54 AI in PPC: Opportunities and Challenges 20:58 The Long Game in PPC 24:09 Final Thoughts and Advice for Freelancers Resources Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter Come to the next PPC Live | |||
| The Annoying Cost of Ignoring Meta’s Default Settings ft. Boluwa Olojo | 01 Jul 2026 | 00:51:41 | |
summary In this episode, Boluwa Olojo shares valuable lessons from her experiences in paid media, including a recent Meta ad mishap, and discusses how to effectively use AI in marketing. She emphasizes the importance of accountability, continuous checking, and the need for expertise in leveraging AI tools. key topics Meta ad mistakes and how to fix them Using AI responsibly in marketing Importance of SOPs and default settings awareness Lessons from campaign mishaps and recovery strategies The role of cross-department communication in campaign success Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Event Recap 03:30 Boluwa Olojo: Background and Expertise 06:11 Creative Pursuits: Painting and Inspiration 08:14 PPC Mistakes: Learning from Experience 10:08 Meta Ads: A Case Study in Mistakes 13:13 Handling Mistakes: Communication and Responsibility 16:15 Emotional Impact of Mistakes 19:10 Lessons Learned and Future Strategies 22:15 Advice for PPC Professionals 25:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 28:00 Taking Accountability in Marketing Mistakes 29:12 The Importance of Campaign Checks 31:52 Identifying Common Mistakes in New Accounts 33:06 The Dangers of Mismatched URLs 36:57 Breaking Down Silos in Marketing Teams 38:45 AI in Marketing: Common Missteps 42:18 The Role of Experts in Utilizing AI 45:17 Final Thoughts and Future Events 49:15 Introduction and Importance of Transparency 50:12 Upcoming PPC Live Event Details 51:01 Client Services and Personal Development 51:32 Outro.mp3 resources Follow Bolu on LinkedIn and Instagram Listen to her on State of Markketing? PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. PPC Live is sponsored by AdSquire, the first law firm paid media agency to get their clients on ChatGPT Join the next PPC Live event Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our Slack Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| The Leads Were There… So What Went Wrong? ft Danny Gavin | 24 Jun 2026 | 00:43:07 | |
In this engaging interview, digital marketing expert Danny Gavin shares valuable insights on PPC, lead generation, handling mistakes, and the evolving role of AI in marketing. Discover practical lessons from real-world experiences, including how honesty, communication, and technology checks can save campaigns and client relationships. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Danny Gavin and His Background 06:32 The Importance of Communication in Client Relationships 11:34 Learning from Mistakes: A Case Study in PPC 16:14 Implementing Solutions and Preventing Future Issues 19:40 The Importance of Communication in Client Relationships 21:12 Navigating Client Relationships After Challenges 25:33 Key Mistakes in Lead Generation Strategies 29:32 Leveraging AI in Lead Generation 32:01 Cautions and Best Practices for Using AI 35:56 Final Thoughts and Reflections on the Journey 41:27 Outro.mp3 Danny Gavin on LinkedIn PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Join the next PPC Live event Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our Slack Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| The Client That Made Me Quit Google Ads (For Years) ft Laura I. Abreu | 17 Jun 2026 | 00:40:07 | |
In this episode, Laura Abreu shares her journey through the challenges of digital marketing, including a costly client mistake, and offers valuable lessons on client selection, honesty, and leveraging AI in marketing. Key topics
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Laura's Journey 05:28 Lessons from a Challenging Client 08:31 The Importance of Market Research 11:37 Emotional Impact of Client Relationships 14:33 Building Confidence Through Experience 17:27 Reflections and Future Strategies 19:31 The Journey to Confidence in Google Ads 20:58 Reputation Management and Client Relationships 23:20 Learning from Mistakes: The Importance of Honesty 25:51 Setting Boundaries: Friends, Family, and Business 28:39 Common Mistakes in PPC Campaigns 31:38 Navigating AI in Advertising 36:49 Understanding Customer Needs in Advertising 37:49 Preparing for the Future of PPC and AI 39:59 Outro.mp3 LinkedIn Profile of Laura Abreu - Follow PPC Live The Podcast for honest conversations about PPC, paid media, AI, automation, and the realities of working in digital marketing today. Thanks to our sponsor Adsquire, a small team of passionate and focused legal marketers that do what it takes to get law firms spectacular results! With the landscape always changing they stay on top of the trends and are first to find and use new strategies to accomplish this for our clients - for example they are the FIRST to serve a lawyer ad on ChatGPT. Join the next PPC Live event Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our Slack Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| The €30K Underspend That Broke Client Trust ft. Simran Harichand | 10 Jun 2026 | 00:48:21 | |
Explore how transparency and accountability can transform PPC campaigns and client relationships. Simran Harichand shares lessons from her experiences, including a major underspend mistake that ultimately strengthened client trust. Main Topics:
Chapters: 00:00 Welcome, introductions, and Simran's journey from Pakistan to UK paid media 04:17 A €30,000 underspend on a major B2B SaaS account 06:17 How a Target CPA change quietly tanked spend 08:42 Owning the mistake and facing the client 10:11 Rebuilding trust after a costly PPC error 12:30 Why underspending can create serious business problems 16:48 Breaking into PPC, internships, and hiring junior talent 20:27 Why brilliant basics matter more than shiny tactics 25:03 Advice for marketers who discover a major mistake 26:27 Building client relationships before things go wrong 28:46 The worst GA4 and conversion tracking mistakes in account audits 33:20 AI Max, Performance Max, and testing new Google features 37:54 Where marketers are getting AI wrong 41:41 "Nobody Told Me This Was a Career" 42:53 Closing thoughts and where to find Simran PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Thanks to our sponsor Adsquire, a small team of passionate and focused legal marketers that do what it takes to get law firms spectacular results! With the landscape always changing they stay on top of the trends and are first to find and use new strategies to accomplish this for our clients - for example they are the FIRST to serve a lawyer ad on ChatGPT. Join the next PPC Live event Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our Slack Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP367 - The Cost of Doing Everything Yourself ft. Teo Yordanov | 03 Jun 2026 | 00:45:18 | |
Summary In this engaging interview, Teo Yordanov shares personal stories, industry insights, and practical advice on avoiding burnout, effective team management, and leveraging AI in performance marketing. Discover how to balance work and life, prevent common mistakes, and stay proactive in your marketing career. Key topics
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 05:03 The Importance of Learning from Mistakes 12:34 Recognizing and Addressing Burnout 15:25 Building a Supportive Team Culture 17:23 Advice for Freelancers and Consultants 18:51 Balancing Work and Life 21:24 Proactive Client Management 22:55 Common Agency Mistakes 24:55 The Role of AI in Marketing 28:32 The Importance of Domain Authority 32:15 Final Thoughts and Future Events 45:09 Outro.mp3 Resources LinkedIn Profile of Teo Yordanov PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Thanks to our sponsor Adsquire, a small team of passionate and focused legal marketers that do what it takes to get law firms spectacular results! With the landscape always changing they stay on top of the trends and are first to find and use new strategies to accomplish this for our clients - for example they are the FIRST to serve a lawyer ad on ChatGPT. Join the next PPC Live event Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our Slack Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP366 - Year 1 compilation ft. Nils Rooijmans, Amy Hebdon, Matt Shenton, Heidi Sturrock, Andrea Cruz, Boris Beceric, Anthony Higman & Elisabetta Nicoli | 28 May 2026 | 00:38:15 | |
A Compilation of some of the best F*ck up stories shared by 8 experts in the past year. PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP365 - The Toggles That Cost Thousands ft Menachem Ani | 20 May 2026 | 00:35:33 | |
Don’t Launch on a Friday What happens when a Google Ads campaign burns through its budget in hours? Or when AI starts making optimisation decisions you don’t fully trust? In this candid episode of PPC Live The Podcast, Anu Adegbola sits down with Menachem Ani — founder of JXT Group and long-standing Google Premier Partner — to unpack the real mistakes PPC professionals make, the lessons that come from them, and why honesty matters more than perfection in paid media. With over 20 years of experience in digital marketing, Menachem shares stories from the early days of Google Ads, campaign mishaps that still haunt him, and why modern PPC has become both more powerful and more dangerous in the age of automation and AI. Together, they discuss:
This episode is a refreshing reminder that even experienced PPC professionals make mistakes — and that learning from them is what truly matters. Menachem Ani is the founder of JXT Group, a Google Premier Partner agency specialising in paid media strategy, Google Ads automation, and performance marketing innovation. He is a respected industry speaker and contributor to publications including Search Engine Land, SMX, brightonSEO, and PPC Live.
Follow PPC Live The Podcast for honest conversations about PPC, paid media, AI, automation, and the realities of working in digital marketing today. | |||
| EP364 - The PPC Expert vs. The Client’s Gut Feeling ft Dean Kadi | 13 May 2026 | 00:37:20 | |
In this episode, Dean Kadi shares a real-world case of a client campaign that went awry, highlighting the importance of data-backed decisions, proper setup, and cautious AI use in PPC advertising. Learn from industry mistakes and expert advice to optimize your digital marketing strategies. key topics Client campaign management Data-backed decision making Pixel setup best practices Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dean Kadi and Fun Facts 05:17 The Importance of Listening to Experts 11:10 Client Demands and the Impact on Campaigns 15:11 Data-Driven Decisions and Client Communication 20:58 Navigating Client Relationships and Documenting Everything 24:58 Common Mistakes in Pixel Setup 27:06 AI in Marketing: Benefits and Pitfalls 30:59 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 37:11 Outro.mp3 | |||
| EP363 - The Campaign Looked Perfect — Until It Didn’t ft Veronika Höller | 06 May 2026 | 00:45:25 | |
Veronica Holler shares her journey through PPC, the importance of embracing mistakes, and how AI tools should support human insight rather than replace it. Learn from real stories of errors, how to spot them early, and why authenticity and continuous learning are key in digital marketing.
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Veronica Holler 04:08 The Mistake That Cost Revenue 12:06 Learning from Early Career Mistakes 19:43 Embracing Mistakes as Learning Opportunities 20:37 Embracing Failure as a Path to Growth 24:18 The Importance of Authenticity in Content Creation 25:39 Common Mistakes in Digital Marketing 29:35 The Role of AI in Marketing and Its Limitations 34:09 Understanding and Utilizing AI Tools Effectively 36:10 Navigating the Chaos of Digital Marketing 37:49 The Fast and Furious Journey of a PPC Career 45:17 Outro.mp3 resources The Search Singularity by Veronica Holler - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09XYZ1234 Veronica Holler on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/veronika-hoeller-digital-marketing/ Kampix Conference in Germany | |||
| EP362 - From Keyword Chaos to PPC Comeback ft Cathryn Stormont | 29 Apr 2026 | 00:37:04 | |
Join us as we explore the journey of Cathryn Stormont, a seasoned paid media and SEO expert, who shares her insights, mistakes, and lessons learned from over 16 years in the industry. Discover practical tips on campaign structuring, AI integration, and how to turn setbacks into success stories. Key topics
Quotes: "Losing campaign history unsettles everything" "Turn mistakes into opportunities for growth" "Bid on your brand to maximize visibility" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Catherine Stormont 03:42 Catherine's Skydiving Adventure 06:35 Learning from Early Mistakes in PPC 09:22 The Importance of Keyword History 12:11 Turning Mistakes into Opportunities 15:16 Monitoring Campaign Changes 18:02 Applying Common Sense in PPC Strategies 18:26 Navigating Account Management Challenges 20:01 Learning from Mistakes in Performance Management 21:13 Strategies for Recovering from Keyword Performance Issues 23:05 The Importance of Honesty in Mistake Management 23:28 Common Mistakes in Account Auditing 26:27 The Debate on Bidding for Brand Keywords 28:26 Leveraging AI Tools Effectively 29:47 The Role of Creativity in Digital Marketing 31:04 The Value of Discussing Mistakes in the Industry 36:55 Outro.mp3 Resources LinkedIn Profile of Cathryn Stormont PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Join us for PPC Live event Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP361 - Why Great Campaigns Fail Behind the Scenes ft Peter Bowen | 22 Apr 2026 | 00:49:41 | |
In this episode, Peter Bowen shares valuable insights from nearly 20 years in PPC advertising, highlighting common pitfalls and how to avoid them. Whether you're managing Google Ads for local businesses or complex lead gen campaigns, his stories provide practical lessons to refine your approach. Main topics covered:
Timestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Peter Bowen and his PPC expertise 00:20 - The significance of currency settings in campaign management 02:45 - Handling system decay: infrastructure leaks and tracking failures 05:30 - Real-world case: poor performance due to broken conversion tracking 09:00 - How to implement systematic checks for campaign health 12:45 - The role of bid strategies: target CPA vs. maximized conversions 16:00 - Challenges and opportunities with AI Max and automation tools 20:30 - Common mistakes when applying automation without strategic planning 24:15 - The importance of guarding against system leaks and data loss 27:00 - Practical steps: checklists, logs, and monitoring tools 30:00 - Why understanding the whole system matters in PPC success 33:00 - The industry’s shift from traditional to AI-powered campaigns 37:00 - The myth of “statistically significant” results in PPC testing 40:15 - Closing advice: learn from mistakes and build resilient systems Remember: Making mistakes is part of growing as a PPC professional, but it’s what you learn and implement afterward that truly defines your success. Resources: Go to PPC Live for event tickets Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP360 - Clean Doesn't Always Mean Better ft Charlotte Osborne | 15 Apr 2026 | 00:52:28 | |
In this episode, Charlotte Osborne shares her journey through the PPC industry, including a pivotal mistake with account restructuring, and the lessons learned along the way. Whether you're a newbie or a seasoned pro, her insights on account management, AI usage, and industry collaboration are invaluable. Key Topics
Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and episode overview 01:00 - Charlotte’s background in paid search and her focus on standing out 05:18 - The story of Charlotte’s account restructuring mistake 06:18 - The consequences of re-writing campaigns over existing ones 07:42 - The importance of backup and careful planning during restructures 08:44 - Internal checks, mentorship, and learning from mistakes 10:09 - Industry training gaps in small agencies 11:36 - The importance of foundational PPC training and continuous learning 13:01 - Industry evolution and access to PPC knowledge 14:27 - Making changes slowly: phased approach and experimentation 16:38 - The immediate impact of restructuring mistakes 18:07 - Process improvements for account restructuring going forward 20:07 - The significance of testing and pausing, not removing, campaign elements 22:15 - Handling client and manager reactions to mistakes 27:04 - Industry collaboration, sharing knowledge 28:08 - Advice for PPC practitioners facing account crises 34:38 - Common audit pitfalls: tracking and negative keywords 36:32 - The importance of conversion tracking and data integrity 38:15 - AI in PPC: current limitations and risks of automation 43:00 - The concept of “Claudit” and responsible AI use 45:17 - Final thoughts on human oversight and industry collaboration 46:41 - Charlotte’s fun "movie title" for her career: "Fast and Furious in PPC" 48:00 - Industry outlook: the future of PPC and community building Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP359 - Misreported ROAS, Account Structure Chaos & AI Mistakes ft Maddie Lightening | 08 Apr 2026 | 00:43:11 | |
In this episode, Maddie Lightening shares candid stories about common pitfalls in paid media management, the importance of leveraging AI wisely, and how to approach mistakes with a growth mindset. Discover practical advice on account structuring, controlling CPCs, and embracing experimentation to stay ahead in the fast-paced world of PPC. Main Topics Covered:
Timestamps: 00:00 - Introducing Maddie Lightening and her PPC background 00:52 - Maddie’s journey to Head of Paid Media at Hallam 02:17 - Maddie’s fun fact: from banana bread to F1 autographing 03:40 - Navigating industry interests outside PPC 04:36 - Common mistake: Currency conversion errors and reporting impact 06:12 - Lessons from account structure mistakes inherited from other agencies 07:52 - Handling performance drops without panic 09:23 - When to restructure campaigns and assessing seasonal impacts 11:23 - What could have been done differently during account restructuring 12:44 - Client reactions to structural changes: fear vs. frustration 14:23 - Managing CPC increases and external factors influencing CPCs 18:38 - Implementing CPC caps in bid strategies for better control 21:12 - Breaking rules: Running targeted campaigns with AI and Google restrictions 22:30 - Advice for professionals discovering account mistakes 23:35 - The importance of accountability and giving yourself grace 25:22 - Maddie’s PPC value: FAFO — fuck around and find out 26:26 - Curiosity and testing as fundamental PPC skills 27:32 - Overcoming fear of AI bans in agencies 28:41 - Integrating AI into routine work—don’t ban it, use it effectively 30:07 - Avoiding common AI pitfalls: Providing enough context and data 32:02 - The dangers of complete AI bans and staying adaptable 33:55 - Future-proofing PPC strategies with AI and technology understanding 36:39 - Maddie’s fun movie title: “Rush” – PPC’s fast-paced nature 38:16 - Connect with Maddie on LinkedIn for more insights Resources & Links: Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP358 - Quick Wins, Quick Mess ft Hannah Zora Strong | 01 Apr 2026 | 00:43:37 | |
Hannah Zora Strong shares her 14-year journey in PPC, including a memorable mistake involving bid strategies that caused a client crisis. She discusses lessons learned, the importance of communication, and tips for avoiding common PPC pitfalls, especially in the context of AI tools. Key topics:
Sound bites:
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to PPC and Guest Background 04:16 The F-Up Story: A Lesson in PPC Management 09:33 Understanding Client Communication and Expectations 15:06 Reflections on Management and Team Dynamics 18:15 The Importance of Team Support 22:39 Navigating Mistakes in PPC 24:25 Learning from Past Errors 25:17 Common Mistakes in PPC Management 32:04 The Role of AI in PPC 35:06 Future of PPC and AI Integration 43:28 Outro.mp3 Hannah Zora Strong on LinkedIn | |||
| EP357 - Schedule It or Regret It ft Chloe Stockton | 25 Mar 2026 | 00:34:45 | |
Chloe Stockton shares her journey in paid search, a major mistake during Black Friday 2019, and lessons learned about automation, AI, and account management. This episode offers practical advice for PPC professionals to avoid common pitfalls and improve strategies. Topics:
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to PPC Live Podcast 03:47 Chloe's Journey in Paid Search 06:51 The Cyber Monday Mistake 09:36 Client Communication and Accountability 12:21 Lessons Learned and Process Improvements 15:08 Support from Management and Moving Forward 17:16 Embracing Mistakes in PPC Management 20:18 Common Client Mistakes and Quick Wins 25:27 Leveraging AI in PPC Strategies 30:05 The Evolution of PPC: From Manual to Automated 31:29 The Future of PPC: Insights and Reflections 34:37 Outro.mp3 Go to PPC Live for early bird ticket sale Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP356 - From Costly Mistake to Competitive Advantage ft Heidi Sturrock | 18 Mar 2026 | 00:49:09 | |
Join Anu and Heidi Sturrock, a seasoned paid search expert with 24 years of experience, as she shares invaluable lessons from her career, including a major mistake with broad match campaigns, the evolution of search engines, and the role of AI in PPC. This episode offers practical insights for marketers looking to master performance marketing and navigate industry changes. Key topics
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Guest Credibility 03:35 Heidi's Fun Fact: From 1999 to Google Dominance 08:11 The Mistake: Broad Match Campaign Gone Wrong 10:11 The Silver Lining: Turning Mistakes into Opportunities 12:27 Diligence in Campaign Setup and Negative Keywords 17:06 Controlling Spend and Managing Disgruntled Customers 19:08 Lessons from Campaign Launch on a Friday 24:27 Ownership and Transparency in Mistakes 27:46 Adapting to Industry Changes and Embracing AI 30:12 Common Mistakes in Account Audits 36:11 The Biggest Mistake in AI Adoption 38:21 Mastering AI Max for Search and Campaign Setup 41:28 Closing Remarks and Future Events 49:02 Outro.mp3 Resources: PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Go to PPC Live for early bird ticket sale Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP355 - Sneaky Google Ads Settings & Tanked Campaigns ft Chloe Varnfield | 11 Mar 2026 | 00:41:07 | |
In this engaging interview, Chloe Varnfield shares her journey in digital marketing, her experiences with mistakes and lessons learned, and insights into managing client relationships and the evolving AI landscape. Perfect for marketers looking to grow and learn from real-world scenarios. Key topics
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates 06:20 Mistakes in Digital Marketing: Learning from F-ups 14:02 Navigating Campaign Challenges and Client Communication 20:29 Building a Toolkit for Success 23:13 The Importance of Community and Support 26:04 Learning from Mistakes in Marketing 29:37 Common Pitfalls in Account Management 33:08 Navigating the AI Revolution in Marketing 34:47 Celebrating Successes and Personal Growth 40:57 Outro.mp3 Follow Chloe on LinkedIn PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Go to PPC Live for early bird ticket sale Join us on Slack Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP353 - When Automation Took Over: How Opteo Rethought PPC | 25 Feb 2026 | 00:48:48 | |
In this episode of PPC Live The Podcast , Anu Adegbola hosts Adam Dale and Shaquira Jeyasingh from Opteo, discussing the evolution of digital marketing tools, the impact of AI on Google Ads management, and the importance of customer engagement. They share insights on the challenges faced during the rebuilding of the Opteo platform, common mistakes in PPC management, and the future of AI in marketing. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparency, adaptability, and understanding customer needs in a rapidly changing landscape. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to PPC Live and Opteo 06:35 Fun Facts and Personal Insights 11:25 The Impact of AI on Google Ads Management 16:04 Navigating Changes in Automation and User Trust 21:10 Rebuilding the Platform: Challenges and Solutions 24:37 The Importance of a Holistic Business View 26:24 Customer Retention and Transparency During Change 28:48 Understanding Customer Sentiment and Communication 30:34 Key Takeaways from the Journey of Change 34:41 Common Mistakes in PPC Management 37:28 The Future of AI in PPC Advertising 41:06 Fun Reflections on PPC Careers 48:40 Outro.mp3 Find Opteo on LinkedIn Early Access to revamped Opteo platform PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Join us for PPC Live Online on Apr 29th Join our Whatsapp group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP352 - When Losing Big Is Winning Bigger ft. Emina Demiri | 18 Feb 2026 | 00:46:45 | |
In this episode of PPC Live, Anu Adegbola interviews Emina Demiri Watson, who shares her journey in digital marketing, including the challenges of firing a major client and the lessons learned from that experience. They discuss the importance of maintaining a balanced client portfolio, recognizing red flags in client relationships, and the impact of market conditions on agency performance. Emina emphasizes the need for a proactive approach in digital marketing and the strategic use of AI tools. The conversation concludes with insights on common mistakes in the industry and the value of staying true to company values. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Fun Facts 05:36 The Decision to Fire a Client 10:09 Recognizing Mistakes in Client Relationships 13:02 Identifying Red Flags in Client Relationships 17:05 Turning Around After a Major Client Loss 20:46 Navigating Market Challenges 26:11 Final Takeaways and Advice 27:07 Common Mistakes in Digital Marketing 31:48 AI in Digital Marketing: Mistakes and Misconceptions 37:13 Conclusion and Future Engagements 46:36 Outro.mp3 Find Emina on LinkedIn PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Join us for PPC Live Online on Apr 29th Join our Whatsapp group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP351 - When ‘I Don’t Know’ Isn’t Enough ft Andrea Cruz | 11 Feb 2026 | 00:42:03 | |
In this episode of PPC Live, Anu Adegbola speaks with Andrea Cruz, an award-winning B2B digital marketer, about the importance of navigating mistakes in client communication, the dynamics of team collaboration, and the role of AI in marketing. They discuss common pitfalls in agency practices, the significance of a solutions-oriented mindset, and how to leverage AI effectively in marketing strategies. Andrea shares her insights on the importance of learning from mistakes and fostering an environment where team members feel comfortable discussing challenges. The conversation concludes with a light-hearted exchange about Andrea's passion for her work and her unique experiences in the industry. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Connection 09:38 Navigating Mistakes in Client Communication 18:28 The Importance of Team Dynamics and Solutions 25:21 Learning from Mistakes: A Manager's Perspective 29:03 Common Agency Mistakes in B2B Marketing 31:08 Leveraging AI in Marketing 37:01 Conclusion and Final Thoughts 41:53 Outro.mp3 Find Andrea on on LinkedIn PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Join us for PPC Live Online on Feb 18th Join our Whatsapp group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP350 - Broken Pixels, Calm Leaders, and the PPC Comeback ft Amanda Farley | 04 Feb 2026 | 00:38:09 | |
In this episode of PPC Live, Amanda Friedt (Farley), CMO of Aimclear, shares her journey in marketing, discussing the importance of integrated marketing, lessons learned from mistakes, and the evolving landscape of PPC. She emphasizes the significance of collaboration, data hygiene, and adapting to AI advancements while providing insights on leadership and handling mistakes in a team environment. Amanda encourages marketers to embrace testing and innovation as they navigate the challenges of 2026 and beyond. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:12 Lessons Learned from Mistakes 07:10 Navigating Challenges in PPC Marketing 10:09 The Importance of Data and Collaboration 13:24 Adapting to AI and Changing Consumer Behavior 16:04 Leadership and Handling Mistakes 19:11 Advice for 2026 and Future Trends 22:10 Final Thoughts and Fun Question 38:00 Outro.mp3 Find Amanda on on LinkedIn PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Upcoming: PPC Live event, February 5th, 2026 at StrategiQ's London offices (where Dragon's Den was filmed!) featuring Google Ads script master Nils Rooijmans. Join our Whatsapp group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP349 - Why Client Fit Matters More Than Growth ft Kirk Williams | 28 Jan 2026 | 00:38:14 | |
In this episode of PPC Live The Podcast, Kirk Williams discusses the importance of identifying client fit in the PPC industry. He shares insights on recognizing red flags in client relationships, the significance of mutual respect, and the role of expectations in performance. Kirk emphasizes the need for a thorough discovery process to ask the right questions and ensure a good fit between agencies and clients. He also highlights the importance of long-term strategies for maintaining healthy client relationships and avoiding common pitfalls in the industry. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:00 Identifying Client Fit Issues 06:08 Red Flags in Client Relationships 09:01 The Importance of Mutual Respect 12:01 Expectations and Performance in PPC 14:54 Discovery Process and Client Questions 18:01 Long-term Strategies for Client Relationships 20:58 Final Thoughts and Industry Insights Find Kirk on LinkedIn PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Upcoming: PPC Live event, February 5th, 2026 at StrategiQ's London offices (where Dragon's Den was filmed!) featuring Google Ads script master Nils Rooijmans. Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our Whatsapp group - https://bit.ly/pluwhatsapp Subscribe to our Newsletter - https://ppc.live/newsletter-sign-up/ | |||
| EP348 - The URL Mistake That Killed Black Friday ft Nick Handley | 21 Jan 2026 | 00:44:56 | |
In this episode of PPC Live The Podcast, host Anu Adegbola welcomes Nick Handley, a seasoned digital marketer and co-host of the Prompted podcast. They discuss Nick's journey in the PPC industry, including a significant early career mistake involving a URL change that led to the disapproval of ads during a crucial Black Friday campaign. Nick shares how he learned the importance of attention to detail and the value of having a supportive team, particularly highlighting the role of his colleague Max in helping him navigate the crisis. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of digital marketing, the integration of AI, and the importance of maintaining mental health in a high-pressure environment. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nick Handley 05:51 Nick's Early Career Mistake 12:56 Learning from Mistakes and Accountability 18:18 Implementing Guardrails in PPC 25:00 Mental Health in Digital Marketing 30:34 Common Mistakes in Budget Management 32:56 The Role of AI in Marketing 37:11 The Importance of Vulnerability in Leadership 40:22 Closing Thoughts and Movie Title Follow Nick on LinkedIn Links spoken about - https://aistudio.google.com/apps PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Upcoming: PPC Live event, February 5th, 2026 at StrategiQ's London offices (where Dragon's Den was filmed!) featuring Google Ads script master Nils Rooijmans. Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our Whatsapp group - https://bit.ly/pluwhatsapp Subscribe to our Newsletter - https://ppc.live/newsletter-sign-up/ | |||
| EP347 - The PPC Decision That Cost More Than Performance ft Amy Hebdon | 14 Jan 2026 | 00:39:32 | |
In this episode of PPC Live The Podcast, Anu Adegbola interviews Amy, a seasoned paid search expert, discussing her experiences and lessons learned from mistakes in the industry. They explore the importance of stakeholder management, accountability, and the role of AI in digital marketing. Amy shares insights on common mistakes in PPC campaigns and emphasizes the need for a strategic approach over mere tactical execution. The conversation also touches on future trends in Google Ads and the significance of maintaining relationships in the industry. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 03:00 The Importance of Stakeholder Management 06:04 Learning from Mistakes in Paid Search 09:54 Accountability and Team Dynamics 12:55 The Role of AI in Paid Search 20:00 Common Mistakes in Digital Marketing 24:02 Future Trends in Google Ads 28:59 Final Thoughts and Advice Follow Amy on LinkedIn PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Upcoming: PPC Live event, February 5th, 2026 at StrategiQ's London offices (where Dragon's Den was filmed!) featuring Google Ads script master Nils Rooijmans. Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our Whatsapp group - https://bit.ly/pluwhatsapp Subscribe to our Newsletter - https://ppc.live/newsletter-sign-up/ | |||
| EP346 Getting Fired, Getting Better: A PPC Redemption Story ft Anthony Higman | 07 Jan 2026 | 00:48:51 | |
In this episode of PPC Live The Podcast, Anu Adegbola interviews Anthony Higman, CEO of AdSquire, who shares his journey in the world of paid search, the mistakes he's made, and the lessons learned along the way. Anthony discusses the importance of building trust with clients, navigating client relationships, and the significance of agency consistency. He emphasizes the need for professionals to find the right fit in their careers and the importance of allowing mistakes as a part of the learning process. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in PPC and predictions for its future in advertising. Takeaways:
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Anthony Higman 02:30 Anthony's Journey in Digital Marketing 05:35 The Importance of Learning from Mistakes 06:07 Building Trust with Clients 10:52 Navigating Client Relationships and Scams 12:25 The Challenge of Client Education 15:15 Agency Dynamics and Competition 19:38 Lessons from a Past Job Experience 23:53 Navigating Client Relationships and Agency Dynamics 27:28 Finding the Right Fit: Employer-Employee Alignment 29:50 Learning from Mistakes: The Value of F-ups 33:35 Creating a Culture of Learning from Mistakes 35:49 AI in Advertising: Opportunities and Pitfalls 41:39 The Future of AI in Google Ads Follow Anthony on LinkedIn and Twitter PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Upcoming: PPC Live event, February 5th, 2026 at StrategiQ's London offices (where Dragon's Den was filmed!) featuring Google Ads script master Nils Rooijmans. Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our Whatsapp group - https://bit.ly/pluwhatsapp Subscribe to our Newsletter - https://ppc.live/newsletter-sign-up/ | |||
| EP345 - The PPC Restructure That Tanked Performance ft Nadia Mursal | 17 Dec 2025 | 00:43:41 | |
Summary In this episode of the PPC Live podcast, host Anu Adegbola speaks with Nadia Mursal about the importance of learning from mistakes in the digital marketing industry. They discuss Nadia's personal experiences with account restructuring, the significance of strong client relationships, and the role of management in fostering a supportive team culture. The conversation highlights common mistakes in PPC, particularly around tracking performance, and offers practical advice for handling errors effectively. Nadia emphasizes the need for open communication and collaboration within teams, ultimately advocating for a positive work environment that encourages growth and learning. Takeaway: Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nadia Mursal and PPC Live 02:57 Nadia's Journey in Digital Marketing 05:58 Learning from Mistakes in Digital Marketing 08:50 Client Relationships and Accountability 11:40 The Role of Managers in Mistake Management 14:39 Creating a Supportive Team Culture 17:44 Innovative Approaches to Team Development 21:04 Navigating Client Expectations and Mistakes 23:59 Embracing Mistakes as Learning Opportunities 25:32 Common Industry Mistakes: The Importance of Tracking 30:51 Creating a Supportive Team Culture 35:45 Treating People with Respect and Understanding 43:29 Outro.mp3 Follow Nadia on LinkedIn PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Upcoming: PPC Live event, February 5th, 2026 at StrategiQ's London offices (where Dragon's Den was filmed!) featuring Google Ads script master Nils Rooijmans. Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our Whatsapp group - https://bit.ly/pluwhatsapp Subscribe to our Newsletter - https://ppc.live/newsletter-sign-up/ | |||
| EP344 - When Location Targeting Goes Rogue ft Sophie Fell | 10 Dec 2025 | 00:35:21 | |
Summary In this episode of PPC Live The Podcast , host Anu Adegbola speaks with PPC expert Sophie Fell about her significant mistake involving location targeting in a campaign. They discuss the importance of double-checking campaign settings, effective client communication when mistakes happen, and the common pitfalls in PPC campaigns. Sophie emphasizes the need for humility and continuous learning in the fast-evolving PPC landscape, as well as fostering a culture of experimentation and learning within teams. The conversation also touches on the role of AI in PPC and the importance of maintaining fundamental practices even when using advanced tools like Performance Max. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Sophie Fell and Her Journey 04:05 The Campaign F-Up: A Lesson Learned 07:15 Client Reactions and Handling Mistakes 10:05 Post-Mortem: Analyzing the Error 13:08 Advice for Handling Campaign Mistakes 16:01 Final Takeaways and Best Practices 18:57 The Role of AI in Advertising 23:07 Embracing Failures and Learning 28:48 Creating a Culture of Accountability and Growth 35:13 Outro.mp3 Follow Sophie on LinkedIn Subscribe to Nils' newsletter PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Upcoming: PPC Live event, February 5th, 2026 at StrategiQ's London offices (where Dragon's Den was filmed!) featuring Google Ads script master Nils Rooijmans. Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our Whatsapp group - https://bit.ly/pluwhatsapp Subscribe to our Newsletter - https://ppc.live/newsletter-sign-up/ | |||
| EP343 - When Consent Mode Kills Conversions ft Nils Rooijmans | 03 Dec 2025 | 00:42:21 | |
In this episode of PPC Live The Podcastt, host Anu Adegbola interviews PPC expert Nils Rooijmans, who shares his experiences with mistakes in Google Ads management. Nils discusses the importance of monitoring alerts from Google, the significance of proper onboarding for new clients, and the necessity of conversion tracking. He emphasizes the value of communication with clients during crises and the need for a culture of learning from mistakes in the PPC industry. The conversation also touches on common pitfalls in PPC management and strategies for effective campaign management. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nils and His Expertise 06:38 The Digital Nomad Lifestyle 10:37 Mistakes in PPC Management 15:36 Client Relationships and Accountability 20:19 Fixing Issues and Learning from Mistakes 20:38 Navigating Google Ads Challenges 22:33 Crisis Management and Client Communication 24:35 Learning from Mistakes: Root Cause Analysis 25:00 The Importance of Conversion Tracking 26:00 Common Mistakes in PPC Management 29:51 The Role of Mistakes in Growth 31:03 Fostering a Culture of Learning 33:20 The Future of PPC: Adapting to Change Follow Nils on LinkedIn Subscribe to Nils' newsletter PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Upcoming: PPC Live event, February 5th, 2026 at StrategiQ's London offices (where Dragon's Den was filmed!) featuring Google Ads script master Nils Rooijmans. Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our Whatsapp group - https://bit.ly/pluwhatsapp Subscribe to our Newsletter - https://ppc.live/newsletter-sign-up/ | |||
| EP342 - 10K Down the Drain ft Boris Beceric | 26 Nov 2025 | 00:37:03 | |
In this episode of PPC Live The Podcast , host Anu Adegbola speaks with Boris Beceric about the importance of learning from mistakes in the PPC industry. Boris shares a significant error he made with URL parameters that led to wasted ad spend and discusses how effective communication with clients can mitigate the impact of mistakes. The conversation emphasizes the need for guardrails to prevent future errors, the importance of taking ownership, and the value of testing strategies in PPC campaigns. Boris also highlights common mistakes in automation and the significance of sharing failures to foster a more authentic industry dialogue. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Boris and His Expertise 03:04 The Importance of Clarity in Google Ads 05:56 Learning from Mistakes: Boris's Experience 08:45 Handling Mistakes with Clients 11:43 Mindset and Guardrails for Success 16:44 Taking Ownership of Mistakes 19:13 Strategic Testing in Marketing 22:52 Common Mistakes in Automation 27:13 The Importance of Sharing Failures 29:50 The Journey of Learning and Growth Follow Boris on LinkedIn Boris' EP on Bandcamp PPC Live The Podcast (formerly PPCChat Roundup) features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Upcoming: PPC Live event, February 5th, 2026 at StrategiQ's London offices (where Dragon's Den was filmed!) featuring Google Ads script master Nils Rooijmans. Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our Whatsapp group - https://bit.ly/pluwhatsapp Subscribe to our Newsletter - https://ppc.live/newsletter-sign-up/ | |||
| EP341 - The £15,000 Landing Page Mistake ft Dale Olorenshaw | 19 Nov 2025 | 00:38:49 | |
In this raw and revealing episode of PPC Live the podcast, Dale Olorenshaw, Head of Paid Media at StrategiQ, shares a mistake that cost £15,000 and taught him the most valuable lesson of his 15+ year career. Takeaways: In this raw and revealing episode of PPC Live the podcast, Dale Olorenshaw, Head of Paid Media at Strategic IQ, shares a mistake that cost £15,000 and taught him the most valuable lesson of his 15+ year career. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction & Meet Dale Olorenshaw 02:06 Setting the Stage 05:25 The £15,000 Mistake Revealed 09:00 The Dreaded Client Email 11:39 Immediate Response & Team Support 13:43 Rebuilding Trust with the Client 15:48 The Growth Team's Role 17:11 Crisis Management Advice 19:20 Lessons Learned & Changes Made 22:04 Key Takeaways from the Story 23:13 Common Mistakes Dale Still Sees 25:30 SMB-Specific Advice 27:47 Why Talking About Mistakes Matters 29:31 Building a Mistake-Tolerant Culture 31:41 PPC Career as a Movie 33:53 Where to Find Dale & Closing 35:15 Outro & Announcements Follow Dale Olorenshaw on LinkedIn PPC Live The Podcast (formerly PPCChat Roundup) features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. Upcoming: PPC Live event, February 5th, 2026 at StrategiQ's London offices (where Dragon's Den was filmed!) featuring Google Ads script master Nils Rooijmans. Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our WhatsApp Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP340 - How Ignoring Red Flags Cost Us ft Chris Ridley | 12 Nov 2025 | 00:44:28 | |
In this episode of PPC Live The Podcast, Anu Adegbola welcomes Chris Ridley, a paid media team lead at Evaluted, to discuss the importance of recognizing red flags during client onboarding, the significance of communication and team support, and the common mistakes made in the PPC industry. Chris shares his personal experiences with client relationships, the challenges of AI in marketing, and the value of sharing mistakes to foster a learning environment. The conversation emphasizes the need for psychological safety in teams and the importance of building strong client relationships based on transparency and understanding. Takeaways:
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:47 The Importance of Discovery Calls 05:49 Identifying Red Flags in Client Relationships 08:46 Learning from Mistakes and Team Dynamics 11:47 The Role of Management in Mistake Recovery 14:48 Client Communication and Expectations 17:47 Conclusion and Key Takeaways 21:25 Navigating Client Conversations 23:52 Understanding Client Needs and Expectations 27:23 The Importance of Team Support 30:02 Common Mistakes in PPC Campaigns 34:27 The Value of Sharing Mistakes 37:12 From Setbacks to Success Find Chris on LinkedIn The tool I mentioned to calculate Revenue (or Profit) on investment Sponsor Chris to raise money for Park Run PPC Live The Podcast (formerly PPCChat Roundup) features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. The next PPC Live event is on February 5th Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our WhatsApp Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP339 - Fired from My First PPC Job ft Jack Hepp | 21 Oct 2025 | 00:34:08 | |
In this episode of PPC Live, Anu Adegbola interviews Jack Hepp, who shares his journey into digital marketing, including the challenges he faced, such as getting fired from his first job. Jack discusses the importance of communication, networking, and the role of AI in marketing. He emphasizes the need for transparency and understanding the fundamentals of marketing, especially when using AI tools. The conversation highlights the significance of human involvement in marketing strategies and the lessons learned from mistakes. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Networking at Conferences 03:01 Jack's Journey into Digital Marketing 05:58 The First Major Mistake: Getting Fired 08:52 Communication Breakdowns and Lessons Learned 11:58 The Importance of Networking 14:56 Overcoming Setbacks and Finding New Opportunities 17:54 The Role of AI in Marketing 21:07 The Human Element in AI-Driven Marketing 23:58 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways Find Jack on LinkedIn Join PPCChat Slack Join PSA Slack Book a coaching call with Anu PPC Live The Podcast (formerly PPCChat Roundup) features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. The next PPC Live event is on October 22nd / February 5th Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our WhatsApp Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP338 - Account Structures & PMax Fails ft Susan Yen | 15 Oct 2025 | 00:40:16 | |
In this episode of PPC Live The Podcast, Anu Adegbola interviews Susan Yen, a seasoned PPC strategist, discussing her journey from New England to Texas, her experiences at Brighton SEO, and the importance of a holistic approach to marketing. They delve into the significance of proper campaign structuring, the challenges of Performance Max campaigns, and the necessity of transparency and accountability in client relationships. Susan emphasizes the importance of testing, learning from mistakes, and the evolving role of AI in marketing, advocating for a balance between automation and human creativity. Takeaways
00:00 Introduction and Background 02:58 The Importance of Account Structure in PPC 05:50 Celebrating Mistakes and Learning from Them 08:45 Navigating PMAX Campaigns and Conversion Tracking 11:51 Transparency and Client Communication 14:54 Setting Expectations and Embracing Change 18:21 Client Communication and Accountability 22:21 Learning from Mistakes and Team Management 24:57 The Role of AI in Marketing 33:26 The Importance of Fundamentals in PPC Find Susan on LinkedIn, SearchLab, PPC Real Talk Book a coaching call with Anu PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. The next PPC Live London event is on October 22nd Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our WhatsApp Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP337 - Black Friday Blackout: When Ad Schedules Go Wrong ft. Ayisha Yousef | 08 Oct 2025 | 00:37:22 | |
Summary In this episode of PPC Live, Anu Adegbola interviews Aisha Youssef, a paid media e-commerce specialist. They discuss Aisha's journey in the marketing world, focusing on a significant mistake she made during a Black Friday campaign. Aisha shares insights on the importance of learning from failures, effective client communication, and the role of managers in fostering a supportive work environment. The conversation also touches on best practices in PPC campaign management and the significance of authenticity in marketing. Aisha emphasizes the need for a positive work culture that encourages team members to learn from their mistakes without fear of repercussions. Takeaway
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Aisha and Paddle Sports 02:54 Learning from Mistakes: Aisha's F Up Story 05:51 The Impact of Oversights in PPC Campaigns 09:00 Client Communication and Damage Control 11:56 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward 14:52 The Role of Managers in Team Dynamics 17:59 Best Practices in PPC Campaign Management 20:53 The Importance of Authenticity in Marketing 23:53 Encouraging a Positive Work Environment 26:48 Career Progression in Digital Marketing 29:59 Conclusion and Future Engagements Find Ayisha on LinkedIn Book a coaching call with Anu PPC Live The Podcast (formerly PPCChat Roundup) features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. The next PPC Live London event is on October 22nd Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our WhatsApp Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP336 - When Best Practices Backfire ft Aashna Makin | 01 Oct 2025 | 00:32:28 | |
Summary In this episode of PPC Live The Podcast, Anu Adegbola interviews Aashna Makin, a senior paid ad specialist with extensive experience in managing campaigns across various industries. They discuss Aashna's early career mistakes, the importance of taking ownership of campaigns, and common errors in PPC management. The conversation emphasizes the need for transparency in the industry regarding mistakes and the significance of learning from them. Aashna shares valuable insights on navigating challenges in advertising and the importance of caring about the work being done. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Aashna Makin 02:58 Early Career Mistakes and Lessons Learned 09:57 Navigating Mistakes in PPC Management 14:57 Common Errors in Advertising 20:59 The Importance of Discussing Mistakes 27:00 Final Thoughts and Advice Find Aashna on LinkedIn Book a coaching call with Anu PPC Live The Podcast (formerly PPCChat Roundup) features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. The next PPC Live London event is on October 22nd Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our WhatsApp Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP335 - I Accidentally Spent a Client's Entire Year Budget in One Week ft Inderpaul Rai | 24 Sep 2025 | 00:43:46 | |
In this conversation, Anu Adegbola and Inderpaul Rai discuss the importance of learning from mistakes in PPC management, the role of automation and AI in marketing, and the significance of effective communication within teams. Indi shares a personal experiences and insights on how to navigate challenges in the industry, emphasizing the value of client relationships and the need for continuous learning and adaptation in a rapidly changing digital landscape. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 04:45 The Importance of Team Communication 09:57 Learning from Mistakes in Performance Marketing 15:02 Client Relationships and Trust 20:08 Leadership and Crisis Management 21:51 Effective Communication in Teams 22:48 Learning from Mistakes 24:43 The Importance of Data and Automation 26:33 Understanding Client Relationships 27:27 Common Pitfalls in AI Usage 30:32 The Value of Mistakes 32:32 Managing Team Reactions to Errors 35:37 Career Reflections and Growth Find Inderpaul on LinkedIn Intervier with Ed Sheeran: Book a coaching call with Anu PPC Live The Podcast (formerly PPCChat Roundup) features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. The next PPC Live London event is on October 22nd Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our WhatsApp Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP334 - Blog Blunders and Ad Copy Chaos ft Adrienne Shavers | 17 Sep 2025 | 00:34:10 | |
In this episode of PPC Live The Podcast, Anu Adegbola interviews Adrienne Shaver, a PPC expert who shares her journey in the advertising industry. They discuss the importance of learning from mistakes, the role of AI in advertising, and the need for accountability and guardrails in PPC campaigns. Adrienne emphasizes that mistakes are inevitable and that transparency with clients is crucial. The conversation also touches on the evolving best practices in PPC and the importance of sharing failures to foster growth and learning in the industry Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Adrienne Shaver 05:01 Learning from Mistakes in PPC 11:57 Guardrails and Accountability in Advertising 16:57 Understanding AI in Advertising 21:02 Shifting Best Practices in PPC 24:46 The Importance of Sharing Failures 26:44 Career Reflections and Future Aspirations Find Adrienne on LinkedIn Join PPCChat Slack Join PSA Slack Book a coaching call with Anu PPC Live The Podcast (formerly PPCChat Roundup) features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. The next PPC Live London event is on October 22nd Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our WhatsApp Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP333 - When PMAX Campaigns Go Zombie ft Dave Alexander | 10 Sep 2025 | 00:46:07 | |
In this episode of PPC Live The Podcast, Anu Adegbola interviews Dave Alexander, a digital marketing professional specializing in Google Ads. They discuss the challenges of managing PPC campaigns, particularly focusing on a recent experience with a client where a campaign structure led to unexpected issues. Dave shares insights on the importance of communication, teamwork, and learning from mistakes in the fast-paced world of digital marketing. He emphasizes the need for continuous research and adaptation to new best practices, especially with the rapid changes in technology and client expectations. The conversation also touches on the significance of fostering a collaborative team environment and the impact of AI on PPC strategies. Takeaways
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Dave Alexander and His Background 03:03 The Zombie Campaign Structure Explained 05:43 Identifying and Solving Campaign Issues 08:34 Client Reactions and Communication Strategies 11:31 Learning from Mistakes and Future Strategies 14:30 Advice for Handling Client Panic 17:24 The Importance of Collaboration Across Teams 23:03 Crafting Thoughtful Responses 26:21 Navigating Best Practices in PPC 29:11 Learning from Mistakes 33:20 Fostering Team Collaboration 40:32 The Crossover: From Court to Clicks 46:04 PLTP IntroOutro (22).mp4 Find Dave on LinkedIn Book a coaching call with Anu PPC Live The Podcast (formerly PPCChat Roundup) features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. The next PPC Live London event is on October 22nd Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our WhatsApp Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP332 - When Wrong Conversion Goals Led to Right Insights ft Reva Minkoff | 26 Aug 2025 | 00:38:44 | |
In this episode of PPC Live, Reva Minkoff shares her extensive experience in digital marketing, focusing on the importance of learning from mistakes in PPC campaigns. She discusses a significant error made during a Performance Max campaign, how it was turned into a learning opportunity, and the importance of understanding client goals. Reva emphasizes the need for a supportive environment where team members can share their failures and learn from them. The conversation also touches on the challenges posed by AI in PPC and the necessity of maintaining control over campaigns to align with client expectations. Takeaways:
Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Reva Minkoff and Her Background 03:55 The Importance of Learning from Mistakes 07:54 Navigating Client Relationships and Expectations 11:58 Understanding Client Goals and Metrics 15:49 The Role of Collaboration in Marketing Success 19:20 Navigating Campaign Goals and Conversions 22:38 The Importance of Quality Assurance in Campaigns 24:30 Creating a Safe Environment for Mistakes 26:28 Learning from Failures and Client Goals 28:13 The Role of AI in PPC Campaigns 33:20 Reflections on a PPC Career Journey Find Reva on LinkedIn Book a coaching call with Anu PPC Live The Podcast (formerly PPCChat Roundup) features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. The next PPC Live London event is on October 22nd Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our WhatsApp Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP331 - From Viral Tweet to Google's Watchlist ft Aaron Levy | 20 Aug 2025 | 00:43:14 | |
In this episode of PPC Live, Anu Adegbola speaks with Aaron Levy, a seasoned PPC expert, about his journey in the industry, the importance of learning from mistakes, and the impact of social media on professional reputation. They discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in PPC, emphasizing the need for purposeful marketing strategies. The conversation also highlights common mistakes in the PPC industry and concludes with key takeaways for listeners. Takeaways:
00:00 Introduction and Background of Aaron Levy 02:46 The Importance of Context in Marketing 05:43 Golf: A Personal Passion and Its History 08:35 Learning from Mistakes in Marketing 11:29 The Google Alpha Incident 14:26 The Aftermath and Lessons Learned 17:18 The Dichotomy of Google and Advertisers 18:32 The Pressure of Advertising Performance 19:50 Navigating Changes at Google 20:55 The Impact of Public Scrutiny 21:53 Purposeful Communication in a Digital Age 23:48 Building Confidence Through Experience 26:34 Leveraging Influence for Change 32:29 Mistakes in AI Implementation 34:56 The Importance of Structure in Campaigns Find Aaron on LinkedIn Book a coaching call with Anu PPC Live The Podcast (formerly PPCChat Roundup) features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. The next PPC Live London event is on October 22nd Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our WhatsApp Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||
| EP330 - How a £2K mistake made me a better PPC Manager ft. Matt Shenton | 13 Aug 2025 | 00:33:39 | |
In this episode of PPC Live, Anu welcomes Matt Shenton from Croud, one of the biggest global agencies. Matt shares a candid story from his early career about overspending a client's budget and the valuable lessons he learned from that experience. They discuss the importance of accountability, client communication, and continuously monitoring campaign performance. Matt, who is also well-versed in AI and machine learning, offers insights into the current and future landscape of paid search, emphasizing that while AI tools are powerful, human expertise remains indispensable. The episode concludes with actionable advice for both seasoned and junior PPC professionals on navigating mistakes and leveraging AI effectively. 00:00 Introduction to PPC Live Podcast 00:46 Guest Introduction: Matt Shenton from Croud 01:46 Matt's Career Journey and Early Challenges 05:19 The Big Mistake: Overspending Incident 10:00 Lessons Learned and Advice for Juniors 13:39 Managing Teams and Delegating Responsibilities 16:13 Tailoring Responses to Mistakes 18:06 Ownership and Accountability in Mistakes 19:58 Common Industry Mistakes 21:54 AI Mistakes and Misconceptions 24:48 The Future of AI and Digital Marketing 29:12 Fun and Final Thoughts Find Matt on LinkedIn Book a coaching call with Anu PPC Live The Podcast (formerly PPCChat Roundup) features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape. The next PPC Live London event is on August 14th or October 22nd Follow us on LinkedIn Follow us on Twitter Join our WhatsApp Group Subscribe to our Newsletter | |||