This podcast episode features an insightful discourse on the evolving landscape of digital marketing, particularly emphasizing the transition from a focus on mere access to a more nuanced approach that values quality engagements. We, the hosts, Larry Aldrich and Mady Dudley, are joined by esteemed guest Brendan Kennedy, who brings over 15 years of experience in the digital marketing realm. Our conversation delves into the implications of artificial intelligence on marketing strategies, highlighting the historical context of programmatic advertising and its recent advancements. Furthermore, we discuss the resurgence of contextual advertising in response to privacy concerns, underscoring its significance in crafting relevant messaging that resonates with audiences. Ultimately, this episode serves to illuminate the necessity for marketers to adapt to these changes, ensuring they remain effective in capturing and retaining consumer attention in an increasingly complex digital environment.

IN THIS EPISODE:

1. 00:07 - Introduction to Aqua Talks: Engaging Marketing Insights
2. 06:51 - The Evolution of AI in Digital Marketing
3. 08:11 - The Shift from Machine Learning to AI in Advertising
4. 19:10 - The Shift from Access to Quality in Advertising
5. 25:47 - The Revival of Contextual Advertising
6. 31:27 - Adapting to AI in Marketing
7. 38:18 - Navigating the Marketing Landscape

TAKEAWAYS:

1. The evolution of digital marketing has shifted from mere access to strategic placements that yield measurable results.
2. Understanding consumer behavior in the digital landscape requires a focus on genuine engagement and meaningful interactions.
3. The integration of AI and machine learning into marketing practices has transformed how ads are targeted and optimized.
4. Contextual advertising is experiencing a resurgence as privacy concerns prompt marketers to explore less invasive targeting methods.
5. Today's marketers must adapt to the changing landscape by prioritizing quality over quantity in their advertising efforts.
6. Collaboration between paid media and public relations strategies is essential for maximizing campaign effectiveness and achieving desired outcomes.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Brendan Kennedy (LinkedIn)

Brendan Kennedy is the VP of the Key Account Group at Media Now Interactive (MNI). MNI provides targeted digital and print advertising programs, and offers clients a single point of contact for multi-platform, customized, demo- and geo-targeted advertising.

Brendan joined MNI as an Account Executive in 2012. Working with advertisers and agencies on marketing campaigns across a variety of industries, he was able to see first-hand the power of digital advertising to impact his clients’ bottom lines. Understanding the importance of collaboration and precision within the digital space helped him to achieve growth of...

This podcast revolves around the innovative capabilities of Coastal Creative, a multifaceted production studio that exemplifies the intersection of marketing and creative media. We, your hosts, Larry Aldrich and Maddie Dudley, engage with Zach Moore, the president of Coastal Creative, to delve into the intricacies of their diverse offerings, which include state-of-the-art filming technologies and comprehensive production services. Zach recounts his journey from hospitality to establishing a prominent creative agency, highlighting the transformative power of marketing in connecting with audiences. Our discussion also encompasses the art of storytelling in marketing, emphasizing its paramount importance in crafting compelling narratives that resonate with target demographics. As we explore various projects and trends within the industry, we aim to provide our listeners with actionable insights and inspiration to enhance their marketing strategies.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• 00:07 - Introduction to Aqua Talks
• 03:24 - Exploring Coastal Creative's Unique Facilities
• 06:57 - The Rise of Card Trading: A New Hobby Takes Flight
• 13:20 - Creative Approaches to Marketing and Media
• 20:11 - Upcoming Events and Community Engagement

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Aqua Talks podcast serves as an invaluable resource for marketers seeking innovative strategies.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace creativity and storytelling in their marketing endeavors.
• Coastal Creative provides advanced production facilities that enhance the filmmaking process significantly.
• The importance of adapting to technological advancements in marketing and production cannot be overstated.
• Effective marketing requires a deep understanding of one's audience and responsive content creation.
• Engagement with local communities and businesses often yields the most rewarding marketing collaborations.

In this episode we get into the pivotal role of marketing in workforce development and recruitment, particularly within the public sector. We engage in a profound discussion with Jackie Krick, the CEO and Founder of ECU Communications, who expounds upon her journey in strategic marketing and her commitment to empowering communities. Jackie articulates how her organization aligns its mission with the recruitment needs of federal agencies, underscoring the transformative power of marketing to foster resilience and connection within communities. Furthermore, we delve into the integration of artificial intelligence in recruitment processes, examining how it complements the indispensable human elements of empathy and critical thinking. This conversation not only highlights current trends in marketing but also emphasizes the importance of mentorship and community engagement in shaping future leaders.

IN THIS EPISODE

• 00:07 - Introduction to Aqua Talks
• 05:01 - The Impact of AI on Recruitment
• 10:27 - Empowering Latina Women in Leadership
• 15:05 - Empowering Youth Through Skills Development
• 19:57 - Launching a Successful Campaign: Insights and Impact

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Aqua Talks serves as a platform where marketing intersects with transformative and innovative ideas that drive engagement.
• The podcast emphasizes the necessity of cultivating meaningful connections with audiences to enhance marketing strategies.
• Workforce development and recruitment are pivotal themes discussed, particularly within the realm of public sector marketing.
• AI's integration into recruitment processes is highlighted, showcasing its potential while recognizing the indispensable human element in decision-making.

ABOUT THE GUEST:

Jackie Krick (LinkedIn)

Jackie Krick is the CEO and Founder of ECU Communications, an award-winning marketing agency that executes high-impact public information campaigns for federal, government, and private sector clients. Originally from Colombia, Jackie is a self-made entrepreneur with a passion for empowering others—whether that's women in business, young people finding their path, or fellow entrepreneurs just getting started. In 2013, she founded IMPACTOYOUTH, a nonprofit focused on leadership and workforce development for underserved youth, and she also co-founded CenterFuse, a coworking space in Historic Manassas, VA, that gives emerging businesses the tools and community they need to grow.

Jackie's work has earned multiple Platinum and Gold awards for national campaigns, along with several chamber recognitions for outstanding business. She holds a Graduate Certificate in Marketing from Georgetown's McDonough School of Business and has completed programs at Stanford and through Virginia's Department of Small Business Supplier Diversity. Beyond running her agency, she serves on advisory boards for UVA Health System, George Mason University, and The Latino Coalition, among others—proof that building pathways for success isn't just her mission, it's how she spends her time.