Almost every company is investing in AI — but only 1% say it’s actually moving the bottom line. McKinsey’s 2025 AI report just confirmed it.

In this episode, I break down the top findings from McKinsey’s data and translate them into plain English so you can stop experimenting and start using AI to drive real results. If you’re a founder, CEO, or marketing leader wondering why your GenAI investment isn’t translating to ROI — this is your wake-up call.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why AI adoption is high but financial return is still low
• The #1 factor separating high-ROI companies from the rest
• What true AI maturity looks like in 2025
• Why governance and workflow redesign matter more than tools
• How to spot if your team is using AI without your oversight (and what to do)

Timestamps:

00:00 Unveiling the Truth Behind McKinsey's 2025 AI Report

00:38 Introduction to Marketing Trends with Katie Brinkley

00:57 Key Findings from McKinsey's AI Report

01:58 AI Adoption and Its Current Impact

04:35 The Real Value of AI: Workflow Redesign

05:56 Leadership's Role in AI Governance

07:01 Employee Engagement with AI

08:31 Addressing AI Risks and Governance

09:46 Summarizing McKinsey's AI Insights

11:11 Actionable Questions for Leaders

12:36 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Don’t let AI just be a tool in your tech stack — make it part of your strategy. Take one insight from this episode and bring it to your leadership table. That’s how the 1% are pulling ahead.

Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:

Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/

Website: https://yournextstep.agency/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNow

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens if Instagram disappears tomorrow? Would your business still have a way to reach your people?

In this episode, I’m breaking down why email is having its biggest comeback yet — and how your list might be the secret weapon you’ve been underusing.

With ad costs soaring, tracking falling apart, and algorithms playing games, your owned data is now your most valuable marketing asset. And that starts with your email list.

Whether you’ve got 50 subscribers or 50,000, I’m showing you how to segment, nurture, and actually monetize the list you already have — no shady funnels required.

Key Takeaways:

• Why email is outperforming social for ROI and stability
• What first-party and zero-party data mean (and why they matter)
• 4 easy places to collect smarter audience data
• 3 simple campaigns to increase engagement and conversions
• The exact segments I use in almost every client strategy

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction: The Social Media Dilemma

00:58 The Shift to Owned Data

03:15 Understanding First Party and Zero Party Data

04:24 Maximizing Your Email List

05:46 Practical Data Collection Tips

07:46 Effective Email Segmentation

08:44 Email Campaign Strategies

09:58 Conclusion: The Power of Owned Data

Pick one idea from this episode and implement it this week — whether it’s a segmentation question, a check-in email, or a fresh welcome sequence. You don’t need fancy tools. Just a smarter strategy.

Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:

Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/

Website: https://yournextstep.agency/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNow

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let’s be real — the minute you show up consistently online, someone’s going to have something negative to say.

And when it happens? It stings. But here’s the truth: how you respond speaks louder than the comment ever will.

In this episode of Marketing Trends Now, I’m sharing how to handle negative comments online in a way that protects your peace and elevates your brand. Whether it’s a rude DM, a troll in your comments, or someone who just doesn’t vibe with your voice, I’ll walk you through:

• When to engage vs. when to walk away
• How to build boundaries without losing authenticity
• The tools every platform gives you to keep your digital space safe
• Why amplifying positivity is just as important as filtering out the negativity

This episode is for every entrepreneur, coach, and creator who’s ever felt blindsided by a comment thread — and wants to show up with more confidence, calm, and clarity.

You’re not just posting content — you’re hosting a conversation. Let’s make sure it’s the kind that reflects who you really are.

If this episode resonated, take a second to DM me or tag me. I’d love to know how you protect your peace online and what boundaries you’ve found helpful as you grow your brand.

Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:

Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/

Website: https://yournextstep.agency/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNow

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SEO isn’t dead — but it is being rewritten by AI.

If you're still optimizing content like it's 2015, you're already falling behind. In this episode, I break down Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) — the new way to make sure your content shows up when AI tools like ChatGPT and Google’s AI Overviews answer questions without sending users to your site.

Let’s get ahead of the curve — before you’re left behind it.

What You’ll Learn:

• What GEO actually means for marketers
• Why search engine rankings aren’t the only game in town anymore
• How ChatGPT and Google AI select sources (and how to be one)
• The new “content trust signals” AI is trained to look for
• Actionable shifts you can make today to future-proof your content

Check out this episode, then take a look at your last blog post and ask yourself: Would AI trust this enough to cite it? That’s the question we all need to be asking right now.

Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:

Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/

Website: https://yournextstep.agency/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNow

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let’s be honest—nobody’s impressed by another boring AI-generated post. But it’s not AI’s fault—it’s the prompt.

In this episode, I’m sharing the exact formula I use to turn boring, robotic AI output into sassy, strategic, audience-focused content that actually sounds like me and performs like a pro.

Whether you’re using ChatGPT, Claude, or anything else—this episode will help you stop blending in and start standing out.

Key Takeaways:

• The most common prompt mistakes creators and marketers make
• The 3 types of prompts that are working right now
• Why AI is your new marketing intern—and how to manage it
• How to implement Katie's 4C Prompt Formula: Clarity, Context, Constraints, Call to Action
• Why “AI Content” should just become “great content” in 2026 and beyond

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction: The Problem with Generic Content

00:13 The Power of AI in Marketing

00:27 Welcome to Marketing Trends with Katie Brinkley

00:46 Rethinking AI Usage in 2025

01:31 The Importance of Effective AI Prompting

02:25 Using AI as Your Marketing Intern

02:54 Three Effective AI Prompting Techniques

04:56 Common AI Prompting Mistakes

05:23 The Four C Prompt Formula

07:43 The Future of AI in Content Creation

08:31 Conclusion: Elevate Your Content with AI

Want to stop settling for boring content that sounds like everyone else? Use the 4C Formula to level up your prompts, sharpen your voice, and let AI work with you, not just for you.

For real-world tested prompts and frameworks to plug into your business, head to https://yournextstep.agency/

Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:

Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/

Website: https://yournextstep.agency/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNow

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

You’ve heard it a dozen times—“thumbnails don’t matter for Shorts, they autoplay anyway!”

But if you want real growth on YouTube, that mindset is costing you views, clicks, and subscribers.

In today’s episode, I break down the truth behind YouTube Shorts thumbnails—where they still show up, how they drive engagement, and exactly how to design them for mobile-first success.

Key Takeaways:

• Why thumbnails are still critical for search, channels, and suggested videos
• The psychological principle that makes thumbnails work
• The essential ingredients of a high-converting thumbnail
• The biggest mistakes creators make with YouTube Shorts thumbnails
• How to AB test your way to better CTR and stronger performance

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction: Do Thumbnails Matter for Shorts?

00:25 The Importance of Thumbnails in YouTube Shorts

01:19 Creating Effective Thumbnails

02:57 Design Essentials for Thumbnails

04:42 Testing and Optimizing Thumbnails

06:27 Common Thumbnail Mistakes to Avoid

06:57 Conclusion: Boost Your Channel with Better Thumbnails

If you're serious about growing your brand on YouTube, your thumbnail can’t be an afterthought—it’s your handshake, your mini billboard, and your best shot at stopping the scroll.

Need a thumbnail workflow that saves time and boosts views? Let's map it out together at Next Step Social & Podcasting.

Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:

Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/

Website: https://yournextstep.agency/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNow

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

I’ll say it — this might be the biggest shift in how we use the internet since Google launched.

In this episode, I’m breaking down what ChatGPT Atlas really is, how it’s different from traditional browsers, and why it could completely change the way you work, research, and create online.

Atlas isn’t just a browser — it’s a workspace powered by AI. It learns your patterns, helps you multitask smarter, and lets you run your entire workflow from one place. No more switching tabs. No more losing focus. Just clarity, efficiency, and creativity — all in one window.

We’ll talk about what this means for small business owners and marketers, why this launch matters, and how it might be the beginning of a brand-new era for content creation and productivity.

If you’ve ever wished your browser could think with you instead of slow you down, this episode is your sign to pay attention.

Key Takeaways:

• What makes ChatGPT Atlas different from Chrome, Safari, and Edge
• How “Agent Mode” could automate your everyday business tasks
• Why context-aware browsing changes everything for marketers
• How to start experimenting with AI-driven workflows today

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction: The Tab Overload Dilemma

00:29 Meet Atlas: The AI-Powered Browser

01:40 Deep Dive: Features of ChatGPT Atlas

04:33 Privacy and Control: How Atlas Handles Your Data

05:40 Agent Mode: Your Virtual Assistant

06:31 The Competitive Landscape of AI Browsers

07:38 Conclusion: Embrace the Future of Browsing

Check out ChatGPT Atlas and let me know how you think it can help your business. I’d love to hear what workflows or ideas you’d love to streamline with AI-powered browsing.

Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:

Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/

Website: https://yournextstep.agency/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNow

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

52% of social media professionals say they only use free AI tools. And 62% don’t plan to upgrade anytime soon. So… is that smart strategy—or missed opportunity?

In this episode, I’m breaking down the real difference between free and paid AI tools, what’s worth the investment, and how to make sure your tech stack is actually helping you grow.

Whether you’re bootstrapping or scaling, this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways:

• What the 2025 AI & Social Media report says about free tool usage
• Why agencies are investing—but solopreneurs aren’t (yet)
• When free tools are enough—and when they’re slowing you down
• The paid upgrades that are actually worth it (and when to make the switch)
• A mindset shift: Think of AI as a junior hire, not a subscription

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction: The Surprising Stats on AI Tool Usage

00:21 The Big Question: Are Free AI Tools Enough?

00:34 Welcome to Marketing Trends with Katie Brinkley

01:03 Free AI Tools: What They Offer and Their Limitations

02:40 Paid AI Tools: Who's Investing and Why

05:13 When to Stick with Free and When to Invest

06:59 Conclusion: Making Smart AI Investments

If you’re constantly hitting usage limits, reworking AI content, or missing insights—you’re already paying. Just not with money. It’s time to audit your AI stack. Want help building a content system that scales with smart tech? Head to yournextstep.agency.

Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:

Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/

Website: https://yournextstep.agency/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNow

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CYmpkwvEj/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We just got another glimpse of the future of content—and it’s not coming from a camera crew. It’s coming from a prompt.

In this episode, I’m diving into the launch of Sora 2, the AI video generator that’s creating full-blown studio-quality video from a simple script. I’ll break down what it means for business owners, where it fits in your content strategy, and what you should (and shouldn’t) be using it for.

If you’ve been dreaming of video content without the cost, editing, or scheduling headaches—this one’s for you.

Key Takeaways:

• What Sora 2 is and why it matters for marketers
• Why OpenAI is targeting creatives, not corporations
• Where AI video fits into a smart content system
• The ethical and brand risks of jumping in too fast
• A realistic way to test and implement AI video tools in 2025

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction to Sora Two: Revolutionizing Video Creation

00:42 What is Sora Two?

03:20 Real-World Applications and Benefits

04:38 Practical Tips for Using Sora Two

06:53 Current Status and Future Predictions

07:40 Conclusion and Takeaways

AI video isn’t just for the big brands anymore. If you’re building a personal brand, an agency, or an audience—Sora 2 could be your new secret weapon.

But only if you know how to use it strategically.

Want help mapping AI into your content workflow? Let’s build it together at Next Step Social & Podcasting.

Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:

Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/

Website: https://yournextstep.agency/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNow

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CYmpkwvEj/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI promises speed. But does faster content equal better content? In this episode, we’re diving into one of the biggest content strategy debates of 2025—quantity vs. quality in the age of AI.

Using data from Metricool’s 2025 Social Media report, I’m sharing the reality behind AI content creation: what works, what’s risky, and how to actually strike a balance between speed and substance. Whether you’re drowning in content or stuck in perfectionism, this is the episode your workflow needs.

Key Takeaways:

• 79% say AI helps them create more content—but is it quality?
• Why speed alone isn’t a strategy that converts
• How to track whether AI content is actually working for you
• Why “editing for voice” is the difference between forgettable and magnetic
• The 3-step framework to balance fast content with real results

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction: The Promise and Question of AI Speed

00:44 The AI Content Revolution: Speed vs. Quality

01:40 The Benefits of Speed in AI Content Creation

02:59 The Quality Dilemma: Is AI Content Good Enough?

05:02 Striking the Balance: Practical Tips for Using AI

06:20 Conclusion: Embrace AI with Your Unique Voice

07:50 Challenge and Call to Action

Here’s the deal: speed without strategy is just noise. If you’re using AI to save time but not seeing engagement, this episode will help you course-correct.

Need help building a smart, high-converting content workflow using AI the right way?

Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:

Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/

Website: https://yournextstep.agency/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkley

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNow

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1CYmpkwvEj/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.