What happens when the world’s most popular AI tools become ad platforms? That’s the question I put to Aaron Goldman, CMO of Mediaocean, in a candid conversation about the future of advertising, search, and AI-native experiences.

Aaron brings over two decades of industry insight to the table, sharing his perspective on how platforms like ChatGPT are becoming the next digital frontier, not just for consumer interaction but for ad monetization. As generative AI shifts from novelty to utility, the implications for marketers are profound. Google, Meta, OpenAI, and Perplexity are all experimenting with ways to integrate advertising without disrupting user experience. But what happens when the interface you trust for recommendations also serves you tailored promotions?

We explore how AI can shape embedded ads, personalize intent-driven marketing, and even facilitate transactions within the prompt itself. Aaron also reflects on the rise of AIO (AI Optimization), what it means for traditional paid search, and how agencies must adapt to tools like Model Context Protocol to stay relevant.

This episode isn’t just about platforms and protocols. It’s about empathy, creativity, and critical thinking in a world increasingly automated by algorithms. If AI becomes your co-pilot, how do you stay in the driver’s seat?

So what do you think? Will AI advertising be a seamless leap forward or the start of a trust crisis? Let me know your thoughts after the episode.