Right Side Up

If your brand isn’t appearing in AI summaries, answer boxes, or model-generated recommendations… your competitors will. See where you stand.

Most teams want to move faster with AI. But the truth is, transformation doesn’t start with AI tools. It starts with you. This week on Growth Talks, I sat down with Vanessa Hope Schneider, Head of Marketing at Descript, to discuss how leaders can build teams that are truly ready for AI. Vanessa introduced a concept that stood out: an “AI vacation.” A dedicated week to understand, firsthand, where AI adds value and where it doesn’t. She uploaded context, tested workflows, and returned with clarity and a realistic plan for her team. Vanessa’s advice to other marketing leaders was simple, but powerful: Before you can lead your team through change, you have to feel confident navigating it yourself. 🎧 Catch the full episode: https://lnkd.in/gMn_DhXD #GrowthMarketing #ProductMarketing #AIMarketing #ProductStrategy #TeamLeadership

ICYMI, AI is reshaping everything. And if you’ve ever caught yourself thinking, am I falling behind? You’re definitely not alone. On the latest episode of Growth Talks, Everett Butler, Head of Marketing at Lindy, joined me to unpack the pressure marketers are feeling in the AI era, and why it’s *completely* normal not to have it all figured out. Everett drops a lot of grounded, practical advice, including a reminder to trust your instincts and return to the frameworks and first-principles thinking that have always guided good marketing. (Clip below!) I tell our team all the time that when things get wild (and Q4 is Q4’ing hard right now), sometimes you need to slow down to speed up. That mindset matters even more when you’re weaving AI into your workflow. In a world sprinting toward the future, the marketers who stand out are the ones willing to pause, zoom out, and build with intention. And honestly, the more senior I get -- and the more time I spend in emerging media and growth -- the more I realize we’re all figuring it out as we go. Give yourself some grace. 🤗 🎧 Catch the full episode on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. #GrowthMarketing #ProductMarketing #AIMarketing #MarketingStrategy #ProductStrategy #Leadership

Not everyone has the time, interest, or resources to get an MBA. But most of us have something to teach, and no matter your title or background, there's always more to learn. mallory contois has made it her mission to "get more smart people teaching more smart people." (LOVE) On this week’s Growth Talks, Mallory reflects on her journey, from her early lessons at Pinterest, to building community at Mercury, and now shaping the future of learning at Maven. She’s also the force behind The Old Girls Club, where women building big careers come to teach, grow, and support each other. I joined after meeting Mallory and quickly realized the community she’s built is full of sharp, generous, and uniquely wonderful humans. ✨ 🎙️ Catch the full episode of Growth Talks on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. PS: Mallory I hope you don't see this til you're back from your honeymoon! 🤪 #GrowthMarketing #Leadership #CareerGrowth #TeamCulture #Community #Upskilling

One thing always bugged me as a marketing leader hiring a new agency. I had to trust their slide deck, the logos on their site, and the person pitching me. I always had the same question, “But, who’s going to be working on my account? Do they have experience in my industry, at my company stage? Are they the best of the best”? If you’re planning to hire a new agency in 2026, don’t make this common mistake. Remember that *people do marketing*. If you want good marketing, scrutinize the marketer. Ask to speak with the people who will actually be doing your marketing before you make a decision, not just as a rubber stamp. #marketing #leadership #digitalagency #talent