Explore every episode of the podcast The Marketing Podcast

ChatGPT Ads Miss the Mark, Pink Boots Go Viral, and Publishers Push Back on GoogleThis episode covers four fast-moving marketing shifts: early performance data suggests OpenAI’s ChatGPT ad business is underperforming because ads don’t feel native, require expensive high-ticket buys, and face strong alternatives—raising questions about pricing, self-serve viability, and potential agency affiliate incentives. They also review a new Google Search Console beta that lets brands add social/video profiles to better reflect fragmented journeys and reduced click behavior.

Zoom Buys Common Room, ChatGPT Referral Dominance, and Why Marketing Must Reconnect to the Boardroom: Julius and Ben discuss Zoom’s acquisition of Common Room and why Zoom is moving beyond commodity video calls into the revenue ops stack by combining data enrichment, meeting transcription, and CRM-connected workflows. They unpack a Search Engine Land report showing ChatGPT driving 92% of AI referral traffic from 6.7M sessions, questioning how this relates to broader AI usage and noting factors like Google AI Overviews classification and ChatGPT adding more links.

OpenAI Ads, Microsoft Copilot, and Google’s AI Search Shake-UpIn this episode, Julius and Tristan discuss two big shifts in AI and marketing: OpenAI’s stated ambition at Cannes Lions to become a new marketing channel and Microsoft’s push to lead in AI through Copilot. They unpack OpenAI’s plan to build native-feeling ads inside LLM responses, citing major financial pressure, a 19-week pilot, expansion plans to Mexico and Brazil, and claims of ~900M weekly active users—while questioning whether ad-heavy AI can really compete with ad-free rivals or replace entrenched Google habits.

World Cup Ads, Bing’s AI Reporting, Instagram on TV, and Reddit’s AI-Powered Ads. In this episode, Julius and Ben review standout 2026 football campaigns, starting with a Matthew McConaughey spot localized into 10 languages using ElevenLabs AI dubbing and where it still feels slightly synthetic. They discuss Bing Webmaster Tools expanding AI reporting with insights on intents, topics, citation share, and comparisons, and why first-party data beats third-party “agentic” SEO tools that simulate searches. They also unpack Reddit’s new advertiser AI tools that generate value-adding, thread-specific ad replies based on community conversations, and early results reported as strong.

This week Julius and Ben cover four stories shaping tech and marketing: SpaceX’s record-breaking IPO and the marketing machine behind it, including heavy storytelling, investor roadshows, Elon Musk’s personal brand on X, and scarcity from a small share float despite a sky-high revenue multiple. Next, they examine Salesforce’s acquisition of customer-service AI platform Fin as a sign of consolidation in agentic AI tooling. They then unpack European legal AI startup Legora doubling headcount and boosting visibility through a Jude Law campaign, while noting competitive pressure from Harvey and law firms building their own tools. Finally, they explore EA’s new platform to book ads inside its sports games and the opportunities and limits of in-game advertising.

This week we explore how AI-driven search is reshaping SEO, arguing that classic “share of voice” and rank-tracking break down as results become personalized and conversational. We discuss alternatives like tracking “share of recommendations” and “share of narratives” (e.g., being framed as premium vs. budget) and review Google Search Console’s new beta reporting for AI Overviews/AI Mode traffic—useful but limited.

This week, Julius and Ben discuss how AI is reshaping advertising, focusing on Google’s push toward conversational ads and the challenge of making ads feel native in AI-generated answers. They compare current LLM ad placements to early Google AdWords, arguing relevance and creativity are still lacking and that platforms may be prioritizing revenue. They break down why Messi is a powerful (but expensive) co-branding play for World Cup campaigns, and how Duolingo is shifting toward creators as organic reach declines.

In this episode, filmed remotely, Julius and Ben discuss Spotify’s move toward short-form discovery with new podcast clipping and narrated article features, debating whether it boosts engagement while pushing Spotify toward more addictive social formats. They then cover Google’s latest AI announcements, including native checkout across Google surfaces that could shift e-commerce dynamics with partners and intensify competition with platforms like Amazon and Shopify. The conversation explores Google’s expanding AI support in Ads and Analytics, such as “Ask Advisor” for faster campaign setup and reporting, while noting that strategy still matters most in competitive markets. They also examine Google’s broader AI ad push toward making ads feel native inside LLM-style conversations and mention new conversion tracking for ChatGPT.

This week Julius and Ben discuss Microsoft Advertising’s expansion of LinkedIn targeting into connected TV, co-branding as an underrated growth lever, and Google’s new guide for publishers optimizing content for the generative AI era (GEO). They explain how Microsoft can match LinkedIn audience attributes (company, role) to connected TV via network/IP signals, framing it as a major B2B opportunity but best measured as brand spend using impressions and sales feedback rather than direct-response metrics. They analyze Swatch’s viral co-branded $400 Audemars Piguet pocket watch, arguing the pocket-watch format limits brand damage, boosts awareness for both brands, and may create aspiration for the core luxury product. 

This week Julius and Ben discuss how performance marketers are being pushed to rethink metrics as competition concentrates budgets in the lower funnel and suggest a broader shift back toward brand strategy as early digital advantages fade. They cover Google Ads integrating Tag Manager access to simplify tracking for small advertisers and tie it to Google’s AI-driven push to democratize advertising and reduce reliance on large buyers. They also note Google dropping FAQ rich results, reducing SEO visibility while AI answers may still use on-page FAQs. Finally, they react to Anthropic’s reports of Claude “blackmail” scenarios, framing them as likely marketing and prompt-dependent.

In this episode, Ben and Julius cover major shifts in AI and ad tech, starting with Microsoft’s “AI paradox” study on Copilot, which finds that many enterprises lack incentives, support, and recognition systems that would motivate employees to redesign processes with AI tools; they discuss giving teams small testing budgets, collecting feedback, and celebrating wins. They then unpack Google Analytics’ Data API update enabling cross-channel conversion reporting (in beta) and why dominant platforms still withhold key intent data. Next, they discuss Uber Advertising reaching a $2B milestone, driven by high daily app usage across rides and delivery. Finally, they review OpenAI’s US beta for self-serve ChatGPT Ads, which resembles Google smart campaigns, and debate its impact on marketers and agencies.

Julius and Ben discuss why positioning remains a crucial growth lever even as AI and fast-moving content trends challenge traditional marketing frameworks. Ben defines positioning as how an offer is perceived through selling, production, communication, identity, and product delivery—shaping the buyer’s comparison moment and clarifying why someone should buy from you. They explore how companies can influence perception through consistent messaging, but warn that misalignment (e.g., low quality positioned as premium) destroys trust.

Let's discuss whether hyper-targeting is overrated and when going broad in PPC makes sense. Julius shares a recent shift toward broader Meta targeting, relying on persona-specific creative hooks to let users and the algorithm self-select, noting early mixed results tied more to creative quality than targeting. Ben explains why platforms push broad targeting and argues it works best when conversion feedback is short-term and accurate, such as B2C e-commerce, while longer deal cycles, human sales involvement, and lead-based optimization in B2B can degrade data quality and produce low-quality leads.

Why is most modern UGC is ineffective and what separates the small percentage that actually performs? Ben & Julius clarify how “user-generated content” has evolved from organic consumer posts into paid, scripted creator content, and why authenticity still matters.

They highlight common brand mistakes like over-branding with logos and CTAs, choosing the wrong creators, or having creators deliver messages they don’t understand, especially in complex B2B.

They also explore where AI can already replace some UGC, when human creators still win, and why B2B marketers should adopt UGC sooner than later when audience size allows!

We're back from the break and get into why “perfect” attribution doesn’t exist, especially as most customer journeys include multiple touchpoints beyond last-click channels like Google Ads and Meta. We explain cookies and why third-party cookies aren’t fully disappearing, highlighting how platform ecosystems and privacy controls affect measurement, and why first-party and server-side tracking are more robust and legally workable when data stays with the business. Ben warns that platform dashboards can inflate conversions and recommends validating with independent attribution tools (particularly at larger budgets), or even better, asking customers directly—without forcing a single-channel answer.

In this episode, Julius and Ben discuss the rapid advancements in AI video production and its implications for the industry. They explore how AI-generated videos are becoming more affordable and realistic, potentially reshaping both User-Generated Content (UGC) and high-budget productions. The conversation touches on the authenticity of AI videos, the future of classical production industries, and the potential shift in creative strategies towards rolling out diverse video assets.

Stop shouting as if you were on the fish market!

In this episode, Julius and Ben discuss the critical role of creative strategies in driving brand success. They explore what constitutes a great strategy versus a poor one, emphasizing the importance of cohesive messaging and brand positioning.

Whether you're scaling Demand Gen, expanding into new markets, or trying to hit your North Star 2026 goals, choosing the right execution model is one of the most critical strategic decisions in modern marketing. Each model comes with trade-offs: speed vs. control, expertise vs. cost, flexibility vs. alignment. In this episode, Ben and Julius discuss the pros and cons of hiring freelancers, agencies, and in-house teams for all marketing tasks. The conversation highlights the importance of finding a balance between internal and external resources, ensuring that companies achieve optimal results without overextending their capabilities.

In this episode, Julius and Ben discuss their marketing predictions for 2026, focusing on the key differentiators for top marketers and essential strategies for success. They emphasize the importance of long-term planning over short-term tactics, with an insightful look into the role of positioning and how it can give companies a competitive edge.

Happy new year! In this episode, Julius and Ben discuss the intricacies of conversion tracking and why it's essential for effective marketing strategies. They address common challenges with attribution, especially in multi-touchpoint journeys, and emphasize the importance of relevant traffic and well-structured remarketing plans. The conversation covers the pros and cons of relying on automated tools like Google’s P Max campaigns and explores the benefits of server-side tracking for more accurate data. If you want to refine your approach to conversion tracking and attribution, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice.

In this slightly shorter Christmas episode, we analyze the role and effectiveness of out-of-home (OOH) advertising against the obvious strengths of digital channels. We discuss its potential resurgence, trust-building advantages, the industries where it is most potent and where it makes sense in demand gen campaigns.

Merry Christmas from the team at Mediacharge! 🎄❤️

In this episode, Julius and Ben continue their exploration of Demand Generation, focusing on strategies for Mid-Market and Enterprise settings dealing with complex products and high-ticket items. They unpack the three phases of demand—content, solution, and vendor—and reveal how to craft attention-grabbing, educational content that turns prospects into champions. Learn how to navigate blockers, decision-makers, and back-engineer targeting from customer data. Plus, discover why marketing-sales alignment and smart timelines are the secret to winning big deals.

In this episode, Julius and Ben dive deep into theory behind a timeless marketing tool— buyer personas. Are they still relevant in a world obsessed with algorithms and conversion tracking? Absolutely. We unpack where the concept came from, why ignoring it leads to costly blind spots, and how personas can transform your campaigns from generic to laser-focused. You’ll hear why empathy beats automation, how rising ad costs make strategy non-negotiable, and practical steps to craft personas that actually drive results. If you want smarter marketing and a team that truly understands your audience, this conversation is your blueprint.

This episode is all about the way ads will become a core pillar of AI interfaces in the near future. We unpack OpenAI’s latest moves in ChatGPT ads and explore how Google is storming back into the spotlight of AI innovation. Who’s winning the race—and what does it mean for the future of marketing?

Any thoughts on this? Drop your feedback in the comments—we love hearing your take!

Ready to turn your marketing into a growth engine? In this episode, we break down the art and science of demand generation for B2B brands. Discover why demand gen is more than a buzzword—it’s a long-term strategy that wins markets.

We’ll explore:

• Why being first matters and how to claim that advantage
• Game-changing tech reshaping demand generation
• Cross-team alignment that makes or breaks success
• The core building blocks of a winning strategy
• How to measure impact and decide who should own demand gen

Plus, we share practical tips to launch and scale your strategy in today’s economic climate. If you want to stay ahead and create demand—not just chase it—this episode is your playbook.

Many marketing strategies fail because the basics get ignored. In this episode, we break down the biggest traps—skipping research, vague buyer personas, and over‑investing in ads without a plan. Learn how to build a brand that scales, balance strategy with execution, and use attribution that actually tells the truth.

In this episode, we unpack the growing friction between OpenAI and Microsoft, and why Copilot is struggling to keep pace with Google’s Gemini. Is cost-optimization reducing user experience? Are release cycles killing performance? We explore the strategic moves shaping AI ecosystems, OpenAI’s reliance on cloud giants like Oracle and Nvidia, and what this means for the future of generative AI. Plus, a candid look at the investment frenzy fueling Big Tech’s battle for dominance—Google, Amazon, Meta, and beyond.

In this episode, we discuss how marketing leaders and CMOs can navigate the challenges brought by the current global crises, such as international trade wars and economic uncertainty. The conversation highlights the importance of making informed decisions regarding marketing budgets and strategies, emphasizing the need for precise targeting and reconsideration of old strategies according to current macroeconomic trends.

In this episode, we dive into the intricacies of LinkedIn Advertising, discussing its unique advantages for B2B companies. We explore the targeting capabilities, compare costs with other media channels, and provide insights into creating effective ad campaigns

From Nepal to the peaks of German AI innovation — this episode features Sohir Maskey from Aleph Alpha, and was recorded as part of our Mediacharge Roundtable at Oktoberfest. We explore how generative AI is transforming industries, the challenges of building large language models, and what it really takes to move toward (or beyond) human-level intelligence.

Tune in for a sharp, grounded look at the future of AI — minus the hype. Many thanks to Sohir for joining!

In this episode, we discuss the recent advancements in AI by Google and how it affects consumer and business behavior on the web. We dive into Google's return to the forefront of AI development, the financial investment required for training large language models, and the competitive landscape against companies like OpenAI. The conversation also explores the integration of AI in Google search, its impact on SEO and marketing strategies, and comparisons with other major tech companies like Apple and Microsoft.

Leave your opinions and feedback in the comments, we appreciate it a lot!

AI-generated ads promise faster turnarounds and lower production costs—but do they really make sense for every brand? In this episode we explore how AI tools are reshaping ad budgets, where they deliver real ROI, and when brands should still invest in human creativity. Perfect for marketers deciding when automation is smart—and when it could cost you your brand edge.

Is SEO really dead—or just evolving into something unrecognizable? In our first episode, we unpack how Google’s AI Overviews, zero-click searches, and the rise of social search are rewriting the rules of discoverability, and what marketing leaders must do to stay ahead.