Marketing Trends Now by Katie Brinkley

If you’ve been following AI video this past year, there’s a good chance you heard “Sora” and thought, this changes everything. And honestly, it did. But now OpenAI is reportedly moving away from Sora as a standalone app — and that matters for business owners more than most people realize.Because this isn’t really about one app going away. It’s about what AI companies are prioritizing now, what tools are actually worth your time, and how to stop chasing shiny objects in your marketing.In this episode of Marketing Trends Now, Katie Brinkley breaks down what Sora’s shift really means, why AI video is moving from flashy to functional, and how entrepreneurs can use AI in a way that actually supports leads, sales, and consistency.In this episode, Katie covers:Why OpenAI shifting Sora into ChatGPT and other products is a signal, not a setbackWhat this says about the future of AI ecosystems vs. standalone toolsWhy most business owners never consistently used AI video tools in the first placeThe difference between what AI can do and what is actually useful in your marketingWhy AI video is becoming more about enhancement than creation-from-scratchReal-world examples of AI-assisted content: clipping podcasts, adding captions, cleaning audio, and repurposingThe biggest mistake entrepreneurs make with AI toolsWhy strategy matters more than softwareHow the “awareness to action” framework keeps your content focused when the tools keep changingTimestamps[00:00:00] – Is AI Video Changing Marketing Forever? [00:00:35] – What Happened to Sora (And Why It Matters) [00:01:00] – The Real Problem With AI Tools Right Now [00:01:40] – Why AI Is Moving Into One Ecosystem [00:02:15] – Stop Chasing Tools—Start Building Workflows [00:02:50] – The Shift From Flashy AI to Functional AI [00:03:30] – Why Most Businesses Don’t Use AI Video [00:04:00] – Practical Ways to Use AI Video Today [00:04:45] – How to Turn One Video Into Multiple Assets [00:05:15] – The Biggest Mistake Entrepreneurs Make With AI [00:05:45] – Why Strategy Matters More Than Tools [00:06:10] – The 4-Post Content Strategy Explained [00:06:40] – Build a Content System That Actually Converts [00:07:10] – The Simple AI Repurposing Strategy to Start Now [00:07:40] – Final Takeaway: Strategy Beats Tools Every TimeThe future of marketing is not more tools. It is better systems. The businesses that win will not be the ones testing every shiny new AI product. They will be the ones using AI inside a clear, repeatable content strategy.This week, instead of creating something new from scratch, pick one strong piece of content you already have and turn it into three more pieces. That is where AI becomes useful. And if you want help building a content system that actually drives leads and sales, that’s exactly what we do at Next Step Social.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If your Instagram comments have slowed down, your LinkedIn posts feel quieter, or Threads suddenly seems a lot less lively, you’re not imagining it. Engagement is shifting across platforms — but the real story is bigger than “the algorithm hates me.”In this episode, Katie Brinkley breaks down the recent engagement trends across major platforms and explains what’s actually happening behind the scenes. Because while engagement is down on some of the biggest platforms, that doesn’t mean your content is broken. It means the environment has changed.Katie walks through why social media feels more crowded, more competitive, and more algorithm-driven than ever before — and what entrepreneurs and business owners should do differently if they want their content to keep working.In this episode, Katie covers:Why engagement is declining on Instagram, LinkedIn, and ThreadsWhy engagement is ticking up on platforms like TikTok, Pinterest, Facebook, and XHow social media became far more competitive than it was even a few years agoWhy recommendation algorithms changed the rules of the gameWhy LinkedIn can still be powerful even when engagement rates dipWhat Threads’ cooling engagement really tells us about platform maturityThe difference between vanity metrics and real marketing resultsWhy posting more is not the answer if your strategy is weakHow the Awareness to Action strategy helps create purpose-driven contentTimestamps[00:00:00] – Why Your Engagement Is Dropping [00:00:45] – The Data: What’s Actually Changing in 2025 [00:01:20] – Engagement Isn’t Dead (Here’s the Truth) [00:01:50] – Social Media Is More Competitive Than Ever [00:02:30] – Why Your Content Isn’t Getting Seen [00:03:10] – Algorithm Shift: You’re Competing With Everyone [00:04:00] – LinkedIn Engagement: What Really Matters Now [00:05:00] – Threads & Platform Hype Cycles Explained [00:05:50] – Why Engagement Metrics Can Be Misleading [00:06:40] – Vanity Metrics vs Real Business Results [00:07:05] – The Biggest Mistake Businesses Make [00:07:30] – What Actually Drives Engagement Today [00:08:00] – The 4 Post Strategy (Awareness → Action) [00:08:40] – Why Connection Beats Likes Every Time [00:09:10] – What to Do When Engagement Drops [00:09:40] – The One Question That Changes EverythingEngagement is not the goal. Trust, connection, and business outcomes are the goal. The businesses that succeed are not the ones chasing every algorithm shift. They are the ones building content systems that still create leads and opportunities, even when engagement fluctuates.If your engagement dropped tomorrow, would your content strategy still bring in leads? That’s the question that matters. And if you want help building a content strategy that creates visibility, trust, and business growth no matter what the algorithm does, that’s exactly what we do at Next Step Social.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI promised to save us time. Faster captions. Faster blogs. Faster videos. Faster everything. But if you’ve actually tried using AI in your business, you already know the truth: it doesn’t always feel faster.In this episode of Marketing Trends Now, Katie Brinkley breaks down the gap between the promise of AI and the reality many business owners are experiencing. Because while AI adoption is exploding, meaningful productivity gains are lagging behind. And the reason is simple: AI is not a strategy. It’s a tool.Katie unpacks where AI is actually useful, why so many entrepreneurs feel like it’s creating more work instead of less, and how to use it in a way that truly supports your marketing instead of cluttering it.In this episode, Katie covers:Why AI feels more complicated than promised for many business ownersThe difference between using AI as a shortcut vs. using it strategicallyWhere AI works well: research, brainstorming, and content repurposingWhy AI struggles with voice, nuance, and relationship-buildingThe real reason so many AI-generated captions still need heavy editingWhy strategy must come before any toolHow to use AI as a multiplier, not a replacementTimestamp:[00:00:00] – Is AI Actually Saving You Time?[00:00:45] – The Gap Between AI Hype vs Reality[00:01:30] – Why AI Without Strategy Creates More Work[00:02:10] – The Hidden Problem With AI Tools Today[00:03:00] – Why AI Content Still Needs Heavy Editing[00:03:40] – What AI Is Actually Good At (Use This Instead)[00:04:20] – Best Use Cases: Research & Content Repurposing[00:05:00] – The Biggest Mistake: Using AI Without a Plan[00:05:50] – Strategy First: Why Experts Win With AI[00:06:30] – AI as a Multiplier (Not a Replacement)[00:07:10] – The Real Goal: Better Strategy, Not More ContentThe businesses getting the most value from AI are not the ones using it to replace their thinking. They are the ones using it to speed up execution after they already know where they’re going.If you’ve been experimenting with AI but still feel like your content is taking too long — or sounding too generic — it may not be a tool problem. It may be a strategy problem. And that’s exactly what we help with at Next Step Social. From social media strategy to podcast production to full marketing intensives, we help you build the roadmap first so tools like AI can actually make your life easier.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever opened your podcast dashboard, looked at your downloads, and immediately decided whether your show was a success—or a failure? You’re not alone. Most podcasters are judging their show using numbers they don’t actually understand, and it’s quietly wrecking their confidence and their strategy.In this episode, I break down what your podcast stats are really telling you, what they’re not telling you, and how to evaluate whether your show is working as a business asset—not just a piece of content.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why a “download” does not equal a listener—and what it actually measuresHow different platforms (your host, Spotify, Apple Podcasts) each tell you a different part of the storyWhy no single dashboard gives you the full picture of your audience behaviorThe three metrics that matter most for entrepreneurs: Listener retention, Completion rate and Subscriber growthWhy you don’t need thousands of listeners for your podcast to be successfulHow to ask better questions of your analytics: Which episodes spark DMs, shares, or client inquiries?Why a small, aligned audience of ideal clients is more powerful than a big, passive audienceTimestamp:00:00 – Why Podcasters Misinterpret Their Analytics01:05 – What a Podcast Download Actually Means02:20 – Why Podcast Data Comes From Multiple Platforms03:20 – The Problem With Relying Only on Downloads03:55 – The Metrics That Actually Matter04:05 – Listener Retention Explained04:25 – Completion Rate and Engagement04:45 – Why Subscribers Are Powerful LeadsThe next time you log into your stats, I want you to stop asking, “Are these numbers big enough?” and start asking, “Are the right people listening?” If you’re ready to launch or optimize a podcast that actually supports your business, that’s exactly what we do at Next Step Social. You can learn more at NextStepSocial.com.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you’re staring at your analytics thinking, “Something’s not working,” this episode is for you. Yes, engagement rates are down across all platforms. That’s real. But most entrepreneurs are trying to fix the wrong problem. They’re trying to fix engagement when they should be fixing positioning, audience alignment, and conversion pathways.In this solo episode, I walk you through what engagement benchmarks actually mean in 2026—and how to use that data without letting it derail your entire strategy.You’ll learn:Why engagement rates naturally compress as platforms matureWhy a 0.5 percent engagement rate today is not the same as it was three years agoWhy getting louder is not the same as getting clearerWhy not all engagement is equal (likes vs saves vs comments vs DMs)How algorithms now prioritize watch time, retention, relevance, and repeat interactionsThree things to track that matter far more than a single engagement numberTimestamps:00:00 Why Engagement Feels Broken00:56 Engagement Isn’t Revenue01:29 Platform Maturity and Rate Drops02:08 Stop Posting More Start Positioning03:18 Quality of Engagement Matters03:54 Algorithm Shift to Repeat Attention04:31 Reframe and Spot Misalignment05:15 Three Metrics That Matter06:00 Weekly Analytics Challenge06:46 Final Strategy and SendoffGo into your analytics this week not to panic, but to spot patterns. Which content attracts the right people and leads to real conversations? And if you want a strategy that prioritizes revenue over reactions, visit NextStepSocial.com.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

When you hear “industry benchmarks,” it sounds official and scientific—like there’s one magical engagement rate you’re supposed to hit to win. But here’s the truth: if you treat benchmarks like goals, they will quietly wreck your strategy.In this episode, I break down why most people use benchmarks the wrong way, how they turn into vanity metrics, and how to reframe them so they actually help you make smarter decisions in your business.What I cover in this episode:Why platform benchmarks are just averages, not targets for your businessThe hidden problem with chasing “ideal” engagement ratesHow benchmark-chasing leads to more posting, more burnout, and less impactWhat your real goal is (hint: it isn’t 3.7 percent engagement)Three things benchmarks actually are: direction, fuel for questions, and a reality checkA simple framework for using benchmarks alongside your own data and outcomesTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to Social Media Benchmarks00:33 The Misleading Nature of Benchmarks01:03 Understanding the Context of Benchmarks02:26 The Real Purpose of Benchmarks05:23 Strategic Use of Benchmarks06:36 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsBenchmarks are tools, not truth. This week, stop asking “Are we hitting industry averages?” and start asking “Is our content actually moving the needle on revenue?” If you want help turning the numbers into a strategy that works in real life, head to NextStepSocial.com and let’s build a plan around your business, not someone else’s average.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens when the tool you use to think, plan, and create starts showing ads?In this solo episode, I break down OpenAI’s move to test ads inside ChatGPT for free and Go plan users, and what that really means for marketers, creators, and small business owners. This isn’t just another ad unit. This is the start of ads entering a high-intent, conversation-first environment.I’m not here to panic you or hype you up. I’m here to walk you through three things:What to watch forWhat to testWhat you can ignore completelyBecause the real story isn’t “ChatGPT has ads now.”The real story is where attention is moving next.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction: Ads in ChatGPT00:58 Initial Reactions and Concerns01:24 Understanding the Strategy Behind Ads02:09 Context and Clarity in Ads02:44 Trust and High-Intent Environments04:40 Testing and Positioning Your Brand05:34 Content and Platform Relationships06:54 What to Ignore and Final Thoughts08:22 Conclusion and ChallengeYour challenge this week is simple:If your ideal customer explained their problem out loud, would your brand sound like the answer?If not, that’s what you need to fix next. And if you want help tightening that strategy, aligning your content, and building visibility that actually converts, head to NextStepSocial.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Marketing Trends Now, Katie Brinkley dives into Sprout Social’s 2026 Social Media Content Strategy Report and uncovers why most marketing strategies aren’t working. She breaks down the growing disconnect between what brands post and what audiences actually want, offering data-backed insights on platform selection, AI content use, and engagement practices.Top 5 Takeaways:More isn’t better. 87% of marketers want to expand platform presence, but audiences are focused on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.Audiences want connection—not more content. Responding to comments and creating original content matters more than trendy posts.AI is misused. Brands are overusing AI for production, while the real power lies in using it for content intelligence and audience insights.Engagement over presence. Being everywhere doesn't work if your audience isn’t there. Focus where your audience actually spends time.Your strategy should start with listening. Audit your platforms and use AI to uncover what your audience really wants to see from you.Timestamp:00:00 Introduction to Social Media Challenges00:30 Understanding the Social Media Landscape01:14 Key Findings from the 2026 Social Media Report02:54 The Importance of Engagement and Connection03:47 AI in Social Media Marketing04:37 Next Step Social's VIP Day05:25 Using AI for Content Intelligence06:49 Actionable Marketing Strategies for 202607:34 Final Thoughts and RecommendationsTired of posting into the void? Start aligning your content with your audience’s needs. Visit nextstepsocial.com to see how we help brands create content that connects—and converts.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

TikTok didn’t just roll out a new feature—it became a different company in the U.S.With a new ownership structure, data oversight, and a retrained algorithm, everything from your reach to your results could start shifting.This episode breaks down what’s actually changed, what to expect next, and how smart business owners can adapt their content strategy without spiraling or overcorrecting.What You’ll Learn:What the new TikTok USDS entity is (and who controls your data now)How algorithm retraining affects reach and discoveryWhy creators are cautious, but not leavingWhat you should do now to stay visible without burning outTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to TikTok's Major Update00:17 New Ownership and Data Oversight03:13 Impact on TikTok's Algorithm05:31 Creator Economy's Response06:18 Strategic Advice for Marketers07:46 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsIf your business depends on TikTok visibility, now’s the time to get proactive. Let’s talk about building a multi-platform strategy that keeps you visible—no matter how the algorithm shifts.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/@rockymountainmarketingInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Instagram just rolled out a small-looking pop-up that signals a much bigger shift: Meta is letting users train the algorithm — and if you run ads, this changes everything.In this solo episode, I break down what this update means for your targeting, your ad creative, and your conversion rates moving forward.What You’ll Learn:What Instagram’s new “interest selection” prompt actually meansHow Meta is combining AI + user signals to replace third-party dataWhy this shift will punish generic ad creativeWhat message-market match really looks like in 2026How small businesses can win by being specific and strategicTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to Personalized Ads01:17 Instagram's New Pop-Up: A Game Changer02:10 Meta's Strategic Shift Towards AI04:20 Implications for Advertisers06:09 Actionable Steps for Your Ad Strategy06:53 Conclusion: Embrace the ChangeRunning ads that aren’t converting like they used to? Don’t panic. Pivot. Let’s talk about how to align your messaging, creative, and audience targeting so Meta works for you — not against you.Instagram ads 2026, Meta ad targeting, Facebook ad changes, AI-powered ads, user-selected interests, message-market match, paid strategy 2026, Katie Brinkley, Next Step Social, Marketing Trends NowLearn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Podcasting just entered the Hollywood chat — literally.In 2026, the Golden Globes awarded “Best Podcast of the Year” for the first time ever. But this moment isn’t just about celebrity winners. It’s about what this means for trust, credibility, and content marketing moving forward.In this episode, we cover:Why this award changes how podcasting is perceived by brands and audiencesThe ripple effect this creates for business owners and thought leadersWhy podcasting is no longer a “side project” — it’s a legitimate owned media strategyHow to know if podcasting should be part of your marketing mix in 2026Timestamps:00:00 Podcasting Joins Hollywood's Inner Circle00:29 Why This Matters for Your Business00:35 Welcome to Marketing Trends00:57 Golden Globes Recognizes Podcasts03:33 Impact on Entrepreneurs and Creators06:39 Strategic Moves for Your Business08:14 The Power of Podcasting09:13 Join Our Webinar09:52 Stay Connected and SubscribeIf this episode sparked something for you, check out our upcoming webinar:Get Visible, Get Leads, and Grow Your Practice with a Binge-Worthy Podcast System https://www.nextstepsocial.com/free-training Or just DM me — I’d love to talk about how podcasting can serve your business this year.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://www.nextstepsocial.com/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

YouTube is quietly testing something that feels very not YouTube: image carousels inside the Shorts feed. But this isn’t just a feature drop — it’s a signal.This solo episode breaks down why this small test could reshape how you use YouTube, and how it ties into a bigger trend: every platform becoming… the same.Key Takeaways:YouTube is testing swipeable photo posts (up to 10 images) inside ShortsWhy this mirrors Instagram carousels and TikTok photo postsWhat makes carousel content effective on other platformsThe risk of using the same format without adjusting your strategyA reminder: strategy always wins over formatTimestamps:00:00 YouTube's Surprising New Feature00:32 Introduction to Marketing Trends00:52 YouTube's Image Carousel Test01:49 The Bigger Picture: Platform Convergence04:53 How Carousels Perform on Different Platforms07:02 Implications for YouTube Creators08:24 Strategic Takeaways and ConclusionNot sure how to pivot your content strategy across platforms? That’s exactly what we help with at Next Step Social. Let’s make sure your content converts — wherever it shows up.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If your best-performing platform changed the rules tomorrow, would your business survive it?Most people say no. That’s why this episode exists.In this solo 2026 forecast, I break down the real shifts that will define how we grow, engage, and show up on social this year — so you can stop guessing and start getting ahead.Key Takeaways:Why AI is no longer optional for content creation workflowsHow social platforms are now acting like search engines — and what to do about itWhy short-form content is shifting from entertainment to educationThe return of long-form content (and how to leverage it)Why algorithm-proof brands are built on communitiesHow to diversify your strategy before platforms pull the rug outWhy real expertise will outperform “raw authenticity” in 2026Timestamps:00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Adaptability in Marketing00:26 Welcome to Marketing Trends with Katie Brinkley00:47 Looking Ahead: Trends Shaping 202602:25 Trend 1: AI Integration in Social Platforms04:35 Trend 2: Social Platforms as Search Engines06:49 Trend 3: The Evolution of Short Form Video08:06 Trend 4: The Comeback of Long Form Content09:27 Trend 5: The Rise of Micro Communities10:44 Trend 6: Diversified Content Systems11:49 Trend 7: Authenticity and Real Expertise12:46 Conclusion: Embrace the Future of MarketingPick one trend, build a 30-day experiment around it, and let me know what happens. This isn’t about doing more — it’s about being smarter.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Facebook just overhauled the algorithm, layout, search, and engagement tools — and that means big opportunity if you know how to adapt.Let’s be honest: most of us treat Facebook like an obligation. We post there because we feel like we should. But Meta’s latest updates tell us one thing loud and clear: they want our attention back, and they’re betting big on visuals, immersive design, and search-driven discovery.In this episode, I break down exactly what’s changing — and what you need to do right now to stay ahead of the curve as a business owner or content creator.Key Takeaways:The 6 major Facebook changes you need to know aboutWhy visual-first, mobile-friendly content is now essentialHow Facebook is turning search into discovery (finally!)Why comments, profiles, and marketplace are more important than everHow to stay relevant when users can now tell Facebook to “hide” your postsTimestamps:00:00 Introduction to Facebook's Major Updates00:45 Why Facebook is Making These Changes03:31 Visual and Feed Updates05:18 Navigation and Search Enhancements08:09 Algorithm and Comment Section Improvements10:26 Summary and Strategic Takeaways11:57 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsThis is your cue to stop autoposting and start optimizing. Look at your Facebook strategy with fresh eyes — visuals, conversations, and community are your leverage points.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you're relying on Facebook to drive traffic to your offers, this new update is going to change everything.Meta has quietly rolled out a link-sharing limit that affects businesses, creators, and anyone using Facebook Pages or professional-mode profiles. But this episode isn’t just about what’s changing — it’s about how to pivot smarter.What You’ll Learn:What the new link limit actually says (and doesn’t say)Why this change isn’t random — it’s part of a bigger shiftHow Meta is prioritizing content engagement over outbound linksWhat strategies still work for driving traffic and conversionsThe right (and wrong) way to use links on Facebook in 2026Why this is the wake-up call your content strategy neededTimestamps:00:00 Facebook's New Link Restrictions: What You Need to Know01:29 Understanding the Impact on Business Pages02:28 Adapting to Facebook's Strategy Shift03:45 Effective Content Strategies for Facebook05:52 Meta Verified and Its Implications07:52 Clarifying the Two Links Rule09:05 Future-Proofing Your Facebook Marketing10:33 Conclusion and Next StepsIf your Facebook strategy depends on dropping a link and crossing your fingers, it’s time for a change. Test one of the alternatives from this episode and let me know what gets you better results.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Still typing “write me a caption” into ChatGPT?It’s time to level up. In this solo episode of Marketing Trends Now, I’ll teach you how to turn AI from a novelty into a core part of your marketing workflow — with a clear roadmap I call the 90-Day AI-Ready Framework.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to AI in Marketing00:28 The Problem with Prompt-Only Marketing02:13 Understanding the 90-Day AI Ready Framework02:37 Phase 1: Building a Strong Foundation03:48 Phase 2: Letting AI Influence Decisions04:47 Phase 3: Orchestrating Your Marketing with AI05:28 Real-Life Applications of AI in Marketing07:00 From Prompts to Protocols: The Mindset Shift08:20 Conclusion and Next StepsReady to stop reacting to trends and start building your AI strategy? Try one weekly protocol from this episode and let me know how it changes your workflow.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Almost every company is investing in AI — but only 1% say it’s actually moving the bottom line. McKinsey’s 2025 AI report just confirmed it.In this episode, I break down the top findings from McKinsey’s data and translate them into plain English so you can stop experimenting and start using AI to drive real results. If you’re a founder, CEO, or marketing leader wondering why your GenAI investment isn’t translating to ROI — this is your wake-up call.What You’ll Learn:Why AI adoption is high but financial return is still lowThe #1 factor separating high-ROI companies from the restWhat true AI maturity looks like in 2025Why governance and workflow redesign matter more than toolsHow to spot if your team is using AI without your oversight (and what to do)Timestamps:00:00 Unveiling the Truth Behind McKinsey's 2025 AI Report00:38 Introduction to Marketing Trends with Katie Brinkley00:57 Key Findings from McKinsey's AI Report01:58 AI Adoption and Its Current Impact04:35 The Real Value of AI: Workflow Redesign05:56 Leadership's Role in AI Governance07:01 Employee Engagement with AI08:31 Addressing AI Risks and Governance09:46 Summarizing McKinsey's AI Insights11:11 Actionable Questions for Leaders12:36 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionDon’t let AI just be a tool in your tech stack — make it part of your strategy. Take one insight from this episode and bring it to your leadership table. That’s how the 1% are pulling ahead.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What happens if Instagram disappears tomorrow? Would your business still have a way to reach your people?In this episode, I’m breaking down why email is having its biggest comeback yet — and how your list might be the secret weapon you’ve been underusing.With ad costs soaring, tracking falling apart, and algorithms playing games, your owned data is now your most valuable marketing asset. And that starts with your email list.Whether you’ve got 50 subscribers or 50,000, I’m showing you how to segment, nurture, and actually monetize the list you already have — no shady funnels required.Key Takeaways:Why email is outperforming social for ROI and stabilityWhat first-party and zero-party data mean (and why they matter)4 easy places to collect smarter audience data3 simple campaigns to increase engagement and conversionsThe exact segments I use in almost every client strategyTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: The Social Media Dilemma00:58 The Shift to Owned Data03:15 Understanding First Party and Zero Party Data04:24 Maximizing Your Email List05:46 Practical Data Collection Tips07:46 Effective Email Segmentation08:44 Email Campaign Strategies09:58 Conclusion: The Power of Owned DataPick one idea from this episode and implement it this week — whether it’s a segmentation question, a check-in email, or a fresh welcome sequence. You don’t need fancy tools. Just a smarter strategy.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Let’s be real — the minute you show up consistently online, someone’s going to have something negative to say.And when it happens? It stings. But here’s the truth: how you respond speaks louder than the comment ever will.In this episode of Marketing Trends Now, I’m sharing how to handle negative comments online in a way that protects your peace and elevates your brand. Whether it’s a rude DM, a troll in your comments, or someone who just doesn’t vibe with your voice, I’ll walk you through:When to engage vs. when to walk awayHow to build boundaries without losing authenticityThe tools every platform gives you to keep your digital space safeWhy amplifying positivity is just as important as filtering out the negativityThis episode is for every entrepreneur, coach, and creator who’s ever felt blindsided by a comment thread — and wants to show up with more confidence, calm, and clarity.You’re not just posting content — you’re hosting a conversation. Let’s make sure it’s the kind that reflects who you really are.If this episode resonated, take a second to DM me or tag me. I’d love to know how you protect your peace online and what boundaries you’ve found helpful as you grow your brand.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

SEO isn’t dead — but it is being rewritten by AI.If you're still optimizing content like it's 2015, you're already falling behind. In this episode, I break down Generative Engine Optimization (GEO) — the new way to make sure your content shows up when AI tools like ChatGPT and Google’s AI Overviews answer questions without sending users to your site.Let’s get ahead of the curve — before you’re left behind it.What You’ll Learn:What GEO actually means for marketersWhy search engine rankings aren’t the only game in town anymoreHow ChatGPT and Google AI select sources (and how to be one)The new “content trust signals” AI is trained to look forActionable shifts you can make today to future-proof your contentCheck out this episode, then take a look at your last blog post and ask yourself: Would AI trust this enough to cite it? That’s the question we all need to be asking right now.Learn more about Katie and Next Step Social & Podcasting:Speaking: https://katiebrinkley.com/Website: https://yournextstep.agency/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiebrinkleyYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingTrendsNowInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkatiebrinkley/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingtrendsnow/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.