Marketing Trends Now by Katie Brinkley

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.

Let’s be honest—nobody’s impressed by another boring AI-generated post. But it’s not AI’s fault—it’s the prompt.In this episode, I’m sharing the exact formula I use to turn boring, robotic AI output into sassy, strategic, audience-focused content that actually sounds like me and performs like a pro.Whether you’re using ChatGPT, Claude, or anything else—this episode will help you stop blending in and start standing out.Key Takeaways:The most common prompt mistakes creators and marketers makeThe 3 types of prompts that are working right nowWhy AI is your new marketing intern—and how to manage itHow to implement Katie's 4C Prompt Formula: Clarity, Context, Constraints, Call to ActionWhy “AI Content” should just become “great content” in 2026 and beyondTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: The Problem with Generic Content00:13 The Power of AI in Marketing00:27 Welcome to Marketing Trends with Katie Brinkley00:46 Rethinking AI Usage in 202501:31 The Importance of Effective AI Prompting02:25 Using AI as Your Marketing Intern02:54 Three Effective AI Prompting Techniques04:56 Common AI Prompting Mistakes05:23 The Four C Prompt Formula07:43 The Future of AI in Content Creation08:31 Conclusion: Elevate Your Content with AIWant to stop settling for boring content that sounds like everyone else? Use the 4C Formula to level up your prompts, sharpen your voice, and let AI work with you, not just for you.For real-world tested prompts and frameworks to plug into your business, head to https://yournextstep.agency/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.

You’ve heard it a dozen times—“thumbnails don’t matter for Shorts, they autoplay anyway!”But if you want real growth on YouTube, that mindset is costing you views, clicks, and subscribers.In today’s episode, I break down the truth behind YouTube Shorts thumbnails—where they still show up, how they drive engagement, and exactly how to design them for mobile-first success.Key Takeaways:Why thumbnails are still critical for search, channels, and suggested videosThe psychological principle that makes thumbnails workThe essential ingredients of a high-converting thumbnailThe biggest mistakes creators make with YouTube Shorts thumbnailsHow to AB test your way to better CTR and stronger performanceTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: Do Thumbnails Matter for Shorts?00:25 The Importance of Thumbnails in YouTube Shorts01:19 Creating Effective Thumbnails02:57 Design Essentials for Thumbnails04:42 Testing and Optimizing Thumbnails06:27 Common Thumbnail Mistakes to Avoid06:57 Conclusion: Boost Your Channel with Better ThumbnailsIf you're serious about growing your brand on YouTube, your thumbnail can’t be an afterthought—it’s your handshake, your mini billboard, and your best shot at stopping the scroll.Need a thumbnail workflow that saves time and boosts views? Let's map it out together at Next Step Social & Podcasting.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.

I’ll say it — this might be the biggest shift in how we use the internet since Google launched.In this episode, I’m breaking down what ChatGPT Atlas really is, how it’s different from traditional browsers, and why it could completely change the way you work, research, and create online.Atlas isn’t just a browser — it’s a workspace powered by AI. It learns your patterns, helps you multitask smarter, and lets you run your entire workflow from one place. No more switching tabs. No more losing focus. Just clarity, efficiency, and creativity — all in one window.We’ll talk about what this means for small business owners and marketers, why this launch matters, and how it might be the beginning of a brand-new era for content creation and productivity.If you’ve ever wished your browser could think with you instead of slow you down, this episode is your sign to pay attention.Key Takeaways:What makes ChatGPT Atlas different from Chrome, Safari, and EdgeHow “Agent Mode” could automate your everyday business tasksWhy context-aware browsing changes everything for marketersHow to start experimenting with AI-driven workflows todayTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: The Tab Overload Dilemma00:29 Meet Atlas: The AI-Powered Browser01:40 Deep Dive: Features of ChatGPT Atlas04:33 Privacy and Control: How Atlas Handles Your Data05:40 Agent Mode: Your Virtual Assistant06:31 The Competitive Landscape of AI Browsers07:38 Conclusion: Embrace the Future of BrowsingCheck out ChatGPT Atlas and let me know how you think it can help your business. I’d love to hear what workflows or ideas you’d love to streamline with AI-powered browsing.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.

52% of social media professionals say they only use free AI tools. And 62% don’t plan to upgrade anytime soon. So… is that smart strategy—or missed opportunity?In this episode, I’m breaking down the real difference between free and paid AI tools, what’s worth the investment, and how to make sure your tech stack is actually helping you grow.Whether you’re bootstrapping or scaling, this one’s for you.Key Takeaways:What the 2025 AI & Social Media report says about free tool usageWhy agencies are investing—but solopreneurs aren’t (yet)When free tools are enough—and when they’re slowing you downThe paid upgrades that are actually worth it (and when to make the switch)A mindset shift: Think of AI as a junior hire, not a subscriptionTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: The Surprising Stats on AI Tool Usage00:21 The Big Question: Are Free AI Tools Enough?00:34 Welcome to Marketing Trends with Katie Brinkley01:03 Free AI Tools: What They Offer and Their Limitations02:40 Paid AI Tools: Who's Investing and Why05:13 When to Stick with Free and When to Invest06:59 Conclusion: Making Smart AI InvestmentsIf you’re constantly hitting usage limits, reworking AI content, or missing insights—you’re already paying. Just not with money. It’s time to audit your AI stack. Want help building a content system that scales with smart tech? Head to yournextstep.agency.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/share/g/1CYmpkwvEj/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We just got another glimpse of the future of content—and it’s not coming from a camera crew. It’s coming from a prompt.In this episode, I’m diving into the launch of Sora 2, the AI video generator that’s creating full-blown studio-quality video from a simple script. I’ll break down what it means for business owners, where it fits in your content strategy, and what you should (and shouldn’t) be using it for.If you’ve been dreaming of video content without the cost, editing, or scheduling headaches—this one’s for you.Key Takeaways:What Sora 2 is and why it matters for marketersWhy OpenAI is targeting creatives, not corporationsWhere AI video fits into a smart content systemThe ethical and brand risks of jumping in too fastA realistic way to test and implement AI video tools in 2025Timestamps:00:00 Introduction to Sora Two: Revolutionizing Video Creation00:42 What is Sora Two?03:20 Real-World Applications and Benefits04:38 Practical Tips for Using Sora Two06:53 Current Status and Future Predictions07:40 Conclusion and TakeawaysAI video isn’t just for the big brands anymore. If you’re building a personal brand, an agency, or an audience—Sora 2 could be your new secret weapon.But only if you know how to use it strategically.Want help mapping AI into your content workflow? Let’s build it together at Next Step Social & Podcasting.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/share/g/1CYmpkwvEj/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

AI promises speed. But does faster content equal better content? In this episode, we’re diving into one of the biggest content strategy debates of 2025—quantity vs. quality in the age of AI.Using data from Metricool’s 2025 Social Media report, I’m sharing the reality behind AI content creation: what works, what’s risky, and how to actually strike a balance between speed and substance. Whether you’re drowning in content or stuck in perfectionism, this is the episode your workflow needs.Key Takeaways:79% say AI helps them create more content—but is it quality?Why speed alone isn’t a strategy that convertsHow to track whether AI content is actually working for youWhy “editing for voice” is the difference between forgettable and magneticThe 3-step framework to balance fast content with real resultsTimestamps:00:00 Introduction: The Promise and Question of AI Speed00:44 The AI Content Revolution: Speed vs. Quality01:40 The Benefits of Speed in AI Content Creation02:59 The Quality Dilemma: Is AI Content Good Enough?05:02 Striking the Balance: Practical Tips for Using AI06:20 Conclusion: Embrace AI with Your Unique Voice07:50 Challenge and Call to ActionHere’s the deal: speed without strategy is just noise. If you’re using AI to save time but not seeing engagement, this episode will help you course-correct.Need help building a smart, high-converting content workflow using AI the right way?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/share/g/1CYmpkwvEj/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.