In this episode, we challenge the narrative of the "attention recession," arguing that short attention spans are less an audience failure and more a consequence of addictive content design.

We explore the core philosophy that marketing is an altruistic process, moving beyond cynical engagement bait to deliver genuine value—or "hardy nutrients"—to the audience. This principle applies across channels, from rescuing email inboxes from "peeing in the pool" with highly personalized, relationship-first outreach, to building websites with clear Confirmation and Conversion goals. Finally, we break down the audience journey using the "3-30-3 rule," ensuring every touchpoint respects the user's time and provides an intuitive, positive experience.

We break down the essential elements (mission, audience, value props) that form the foundation of your brand identity and voice.

Learn how to navigate the differences between a corporate brand and a personal brand—including why your resume and authenticity matter more for personal branding.

In this episode, we dive into the world of content creation. Specifically, how generative AI is changing the marketing landscape. We debate the true value of artistry versus an audience-first mentality.

Most importantly, we discuss the importance of building genuine audience relationships, and examples of brands and artists—from local coffee shops to viral AI music covers—that are getting it right.

Tune in to understand why focusing on your audience and retaining a human touch is more vital than ever.

We unpack how SEO, AI, and content creation often mirror pop culture’s obsession with formula — from Hallmark’s keyword-heavy movie titles (“Christmas Together with You”) to the “AI slop” flooding the internet.

We recall the evolution from keyword stuffing to Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), why “Human Engine Optimization (HEO)” is the real key to great marketing, and how today’s content creators can avoid the same mistakes that once broke YouTube’s kids’ algorithm.

Along the way, expect detours into Christmas vs. Halloween debates, AI hallucinations, and a few personal branding stories involving cigars and Spaceballs.

Join Brian and Nick as they dissect the current state of LLMs in content creation, revealing why the human touch of agencies, consistent effort, and a clear vision are irreplaceable. From the pitfalls of direct AI interaction to the surprising longevity of email, this episode offers a candid look at how to leverage technology without losing your humanity in marketing and beyond.

In Episode 4 of Round Table Marketing, we unpack the concept of a value proposition—what your business offers that your audience actually wants. We introduce the Value Proposition Design framework from Strategyzer, emphasizing the importance of starting with your audience’s jobs, pains, and gains before matching your services, pain relievers, and gain creators. You'll learn how to avoid common messaging traps, use VPD to inform real-world marketing (like social posts or explainer videos), and hear iconic examples from Apple and Sega. Plus: why talking to your customers is the most underrated move in marketing.

Whether you're a marketer or someone who buys marketing, this conversation will sharpen how you communicate your value.

Want to try Value Proposition Design for yourself? Download Strategyzer’s free PDF at: https://www.strategyzer.com/library/the-value-proposition-canvas

In this episode of Round. Table. Marketing, we tackle one of the biggest barriers in marketing: perfection paralysis. Why do so many marketers stall out before they even begin? The answer often lies in fear—of failure, of looking unpolished, of not having the perfect plan. But the truth is, momentum matters more than mastery.

From the value of iteration and real-time feedback to the dangers of waiting for the “right time,” this conversation offers a refreshing, practical take on how progress—not perfection—fuels great marketing. You’ll hear real examples, smart encouragement, and actionable advice to help you start where you are, with what you have.

Key takeaway: You don’t need to have it all figured out—you just need to begin. And then begin again.

In this episode of Round. Table. Marketing, we build on the foundation of the audience journey and explore how it fuels the creation of a strategic marketing roadmap. From awareness to advocacy, we break down each stage of the journey and show how understanding where your audience gets stuck can unlock smarter decisions about where to invest your time, energy, and budget.

Brian dives into practical tools like customer personas, value proposition design, and the difference between your brand and your branding. Plus, we talk about how to use owned platforms (like your website and CRM) and balance organic vs. paid marketing strategies to build lasting, effective marketing systems.

Whether you're building your first roadmap or revisiting an old one, this episode will help you align your message, focus your efforts, and connect more deeply with the people you serve.

Your audience is on a journey. Are you showing up where it matters?