The Marketing Corner: Episode 7 with Manny Teran and David Bradley

In this episode of The Marketing Corner, host Shawn Campbell dives into a critical topic for every business owner: how staying updated with trends is essential to keeping your business relevant and competitive. Throughout the episode, Manny breaks down why understanding and adapting to current industry trends is no longer optional—it's a necessity. Shawn opens the episode by discussing the fast-paced nature of modern markets and how businesses must evolve to meet changing consumer expectations. He emphasizes that while trends can sometimes seem overwhelming, not paying attention to them can lead to a business falling behind or becoming outdated. From new technologies to shifts in consumer behavior, staying informed about what’s happening in your industry helps businesses better serve their customers, remain competitive, and avoid becoming obsolete.

One of the key points discussed in the episode is that following trends isn’t just about jumping on every new fad but understanding which trends are meaningful for your specific audience. Manny explains that businesses need to be selective, choosing trends that align with their brand’s values and goals. He advises business owners to conduct regular market research and customer feedback surveys to get a clear understanding of what their customers want and need. This allows businesses to focus on the trends that matter most to their audience while avoiding the noise.

Manny also touches on how new trends can open up growth opportunities. He shares examples of businesses that embraced new technologies, such as automation, artificial intelligence, and digital marketing, and experienced exponential growth. For instance, the rise of social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok has created new marketing channels for businesses to connect with younger audiences, while e-commerce solutions have made it easier than ever for businesses to scale online.

The episode transitions into the second major topic: the danger of becoming outdated. We explain that businesses that fail to innovate or adjust to industry changes risk becoming irrelevant. He highlights several cautionary tales of companies that once dominated their industries but eventually collapsed due to their resistance to change.

Whether it's technological advancements, consumer preferences, or even competitors adopting more modern strategies, businesses must be proactive in evaluating and updating their operations, products, and services.

Manny provides practical tips for how businesses can avoid falling behind. He suggests adopting a forward-thinking mindset and continuously investing in education—whether through workshops, industry conferences, or simply staying informed through podcasts like The Marketing Corner. He also encourages business owners to foster a culture of innovation within their teams, empowering employees to contribute new ideas and solutions to keep the business moving forward.

The episode concludes with Shawn’s reminder that staying relevant isn’t just about following trends—it’s about creating a sustainable business model that can adapt and evolve over time. He leaves listeners with actionable steps to take, including building a strategy that integrates trend analysis into regular business practices, so they can stay ahead of the curve.

In all, this episode of The Marketing Corner serves as both a wake-up call and a guide for business owners to embrace change, stay informed, and keep their businesses thriving in an ever-evolving landscape.