If your email performance is slipping even though you're using that classic “letter format” style, there’s a reason—and it’s not what you think. Jay Schwedelson breaks down why hybrid-looking plain text emails are quietly tanking results, and what real 1:1 messaging actually looks like. Also: laser planetariums, shoe policies at TSA, and the weird airport loophole that makes Jack & Coke at 8:30 a.m. seem totally fine.

ㅤ

Best Moments:

(02:01) Why everyone’s using letter format emails—and what they’re getting wrong

(03:02) The sneaky visual signals that make your “personal” emails feel automated

(04:30) 600% higher reply rates when your email looks truly human

(05:15) Why your “plain text” email is still HTML—and why that’s okay

(06:15) The email strategy mistake of living in both the graphic and plain text worlds

(08:13) Jack & Coke at 8:30 a.m.? Only acceptable in airports, apparently

ㅤ

Check out our 100% FREE + VIRTUAL EVENTS! ->

Guru Conference - The World's Largest Virtual EMAIL MARKETING Conference - Nov 6-7!

Register here: www.GuruConference.com

ㅤ

Check out Jay’s YOUTUBE Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@schwedelson

Check out Jay’s TIKTOK: https://www.tiktok.com/@schwedelson

Check Out Jay's INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/jayschwedelson/

ㅤ

MASSIVE thank you to our Sponsor, Marigold!!

Email chaos across campuses, branches, or chapters? Emma by Marigold lets HQ keep control while local teams send on-brand, on-time messages with ease.

Podcast & GURU listeners: 50 % off your first 3 months with an annual plan (new customers, 10 k-contact minimum, terms apply).

Claim your offer now at jayschwedelson.com/emma