Why old visibility tactics (cold DMs) are dead in 2026

In this "State of the Union" style episode, we declare that cold DMs are no longer an effective primary growth tactic for B2B coaches, consultants, authors, and experts in 2026.

Key Takeaways:

• Cold outreach has become ineffective due to oversaturation, buyer fatigue, and lack of context

• Modern buyers want to know, like, and trust you before they engage

• Visibility isn't dead—only outdated tactics are

• The new paradigm is "context-based visibility": positioning yourself where trust is already being built

• Podcast guesting has emerged as the superior alternative, allowing you to borrow the host's trust, showcase your expertise in long-form conversation, and build familiarity through voice

• The 2026 visibility stack consists of: 1) Authority platforms (especially podcast appearances), 2) Strategic repurposing of content, and 3) Clear positioning

• Strategy separates effective podcast guests from those who just "show up and hope"

• It's not too late to start—podcast guesting remains underutilized strategically

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