Welcome back to another episode of What The Data Says!This week, we’re kicking things off with the rise of AI-generated street interviews - are they the future of content or just another shortcut killing authenticity?

From viral gorilla dentist ads to AI influencers with millions of followers, we’re unpacking the impact of synthetic content - and whether your audience actually cares if it’s real. As brands flood our feeds with AI, we explore how real-life experiences, community pop-ups, and creator-led strategies are becoming the new way to stand out.

We also break down how companies like Binge are live-streaming full shows on TikTok, why traditional advertising is dying a slow death, and whether you actually need a social media presence to build a powerful brand.

To close, we spotlight a Tokyo sushi chef  who built one of the world’s most exclusive restaurants - no Instagram, no campaigns - and still turned down Obama. It begs the question: if you're good enough, will the world find you anyway?

00:00:00 – Rise of AI Street Interviews: Are They Ethical or Efficient?
00:07:17 – The Viral Dentist Gorilla Ad and AI’s Role in Marketing
00:08:57 – The Future of AI Influencers: Would You Still Buy if You Knew It Was Fake?
00:11:07 – How Live Experiences Could Win in an AI-Generated World
00:12:39 – The Return to Community: Pop-Ups and Fans Over Influencers
00:14:12 – Binge x TikTok: Streaming Shows on Social as a Marketing Strategy
00:18:15 – Why Brands Are Betting Big on TikTok and YouTube Over Traditional Ads
00:21:32 – Do You Need a Brand Presence to Be Successful Today?
00:23:07 – The Story of Jiro: Building a World-Class Brand Without Social Media
00:25:00 – Brand vs Social Media Presence: Are They the Same?
00:28:12 – Final Thoughts: If You're Great, the World Will Talk for You

This one’s packed with bold takes, strategy shifts, and some hot takes you won’t want to miss.

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