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After 400 episodes of Marketing Espresso, I’m closing out 2025 with a deep reflection on how marketing has shifted - and what’s stayed the same. This year has been dominated by talk of AI, automation, and digital shortcuts, but what I’ve seen most clearly is that businesses who keep human connection at the heart of their marketing are the ones truly winning.

In this episode, I unpack why AI can’t replace lived experience, why connection matters more than ever, and how businesses can balance innovation with authenticity. From conversations with tech experts to mentoring emerging marketers, I’ve seen firsthand that marketing is strongest when it’s rooted in empathy, strategy, and human insight.

We talk about the rise of AI-generated marketing plans (and why they often miss the mark), the growing importance of customer retention, and why experience and strategic thinking can’t be replicated by algorithms. I also touch on how economic pressures are shaping consumer decisions, and why businesses must articulate and deliver value at every touchpoint.

I wrap the year by reminding all of us that marketing isn’t about doing it all - it’s about doing what matters, doing it well, and doing it with purpose. Whether you’re a seasoned marketer or just finding your footing, this episode will help you refocus on what’s most important: the people behind every click, like, and sale.

Key takeaways:

• Marketing strategy starts with understanding your customer, not your tech stack.
• AI is a tool, not a strategist - it can support your marketing, but not replace the human touch.
• Consumer behaviour continues to prove that people crave connection, authenticity, and value.
• Strategy and consistency trump volume every time - you don’t need to do everything at once.
• Marketing only works when your people, systems, and processes align behind it.

Action steps for 2026:
Take time to reflect on your marketing foundations. Ask yourself:

• Why does your business exist, and what makes it different?
• How are you creating genuine points of connection with your audience?
• Are your marketing and sales strategies truly aligned?
• What activities are driving results - and what’s just noise?

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If you're ready to work together, I'm ready to work with you and your team.

How to work with me:
1. Marketing foundations and strategy consultation
2. Marketing Coaching/ Whispering for you a marketing leader or your team who you want to develop into marketing leaders
3. Book me as a speaker or advisor for your organisation
4. Get me on your podcast

This podcast has been produced and edited by Snappystreet Creative