The 7 Things Marketers Need to Know About AI Search
The Marketing Companion
One of the Top Marketing Trends in 2026. AI search is about to overtake traditional search by 2028, and the implications for marketers are massive. In this episode, Sandy Carter sits down with content strategy expert Andy Crestodina to unpack the rise of GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) and why it is radically different from the SEO we all know. You’ll hear why AI-generated recommendations convert at higher rates, and how brands can train AI to choose them as the preferred answer, and most importantly, a Hack to start making progress for your brand today!
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Why Marketing Will Never Be the Same Again (2026 Edition)
The Marketing Companion
Marketing is scaling faster than humans can adapt—and most leaders are underestimating the shift. In this conversation with Sandy Carter, Ray Wang, CEO and founder of Constellation Research, and Liz Miller, former leader of the CMO council, and analyst at Constellation Research, reveal what’s changed in just two years: AI agents embedded in org charts, accountability rising as decisions digitize, and why selling to humans still demands trust, authenticity, and reputation. From boardroom blind spots to the death of long-held marketing myths, this episode is a roadmap for leaders preparing...
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A fond farewell
The Marketing Companion
In his final episode as host of The Marketing Companion, Mark Schaefer reflects on the story of a show that beat the odds. This episode has the ups, the downs, and funniest moments from 13 years of the world’s most entertaining podcast.
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Humane versus human marketing
The Marketing Companion
Sure, we want our marketing to connect with customers in a human and emotional way. But maybe a bigger short-term win is a humane approach that provides people with the help they need as quickly and effortlessly as possible. And that might be the perfect role for AI. Mark Schaefer and Mathew Sweezey talk about this important role and the emphasis on humane versus human.
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Sustaining a personal brand in trying times
The Marketing Companion
Jay Acunzo and Mark Schaefer discuss their success in sustaining their personal content production for years, even decades. They discuss their mindset and strategies of incorporating a content lifestyle and beating the odds. is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World." His annual marketing retreat is . For more of Mark’s insights every week, subcribe to his . Mark also offers . Jay Acunzo consults...
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Truth is now a luxury
The Marketing Companion
Mark Schaefer begins the show with a significant announcement about the future of The Marketing Companion. Co-host Sandy Carter kicks off a discussion about how Deep Fakes are overwhelming even the most famous brands and company leaders. Mark and Sandy also cover the impact of AI speed on marketing, the rise of the humanoids and more. is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World." His annual marketing retreat is . For more of Mark’s...
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The OG Marketing Ideas We Need Today
The Marketing Companion
Let's put AI on the corner of a moment and remind ourselves of the OG marketing ideas that still make sense. In this episode, Mark Schaefer and Andy Crestodina talk about the enduring need for strong branding, live events, and sex (you'll just have to hear the whole story!). is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote speaker, and the author of 10 books including "KNOWN," “Belonging to the Brand,” and "Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World." His annual marketing retreat is . For more of Mark’s insights every week, subcribe to his . Mark...
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The AI Solopreneur
The Marketing Companion
Special guest Ethan Pierse argues that AI isn’t just for developers or technical founders. Instead, non-technical but entrepreneurial folks can now build tech products without deep coding skills. AI is breaking down traditional barriers and letting more people “create their own future.” This is the age of the AI Solopreneur and in this episode, Ethan spells out his vision, as well discussing the economics of AI, the future of Web3, and more.
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Case studies in AI for lead generation
The Marketing Companion
Mark Schaefer and Dana Malstaff discuss how they are utilizing AI in distinct ways to attract new customers. Mark built an expert-trained model called MarkBot that is informed by his life's work. This is available to all through his website. Dana has created custom bots that encourage top-of-funnel engagement for her business while blending human connection that builds trust. This episode is an inspiring and engaging discussion on breakthrough ideas to connect to customers by blending AI and the human touch. is a strategy consultant, college educator, keynote...
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How AI is Changing Your Customers
The Marketing Companion
A new research report shows how AI is re-wiring our customers — literally changing their psychology and buying habits. In this episode, Mark Schaefer previews a new book and explores what happens when humans offload their thinking to a machine.
info_outlineIn his final episode as host of The Marketing Companion, Mark Schaefer reflects on the story of a show that beat the odds. This episode has the ups, the downs, and funniest moments from 13 years of the world’s most entertaining podcast.