Mark Schaefer, Author at Schaefer Marketing Solutions: We Help Businesses {grow}

The AI Easy Button imperils the future of marketing research

My friends are losing their marketing jobs as companies opt for the AI Easy Button. But as we cut costs, we might be missing out on the future of our companies.

The heritage moat: Why nostalgia marketing dominates today

Nostalgia marketing is everywhere on even startups capitalize on history to create a “heritage moat.” Why is nostalgia so powerful today and how can any business use these ideas?

How to overcome Content Shock in a world of AI slop

It’s never been more difficult to become the signal against the noise in our digital content world. But there is a way to overcome this new wave of Content Shock You will need to think like an artist.

My Fond Farewell to The Marketing Companion

Mark Schaefer beat the odds by hosting a podcast continuously for 13 years. In his final show as host, Mark tells the inside story of the The Marketing Companion — the world’s most entertaining business podcast.

The Top Blog Posts of 2025

It’s hard to keep up with the best writing on the web but here’s one view of the Top Blog Posts of 2025.

The critical distinction between Human versus Humane marketing

In this episode of The Marketing Companion, Mark Schaefer and Mathew Sweezey discuss the foundational role of relationships in business and successful marketing. They make a distinction between human marketing and humane marketing.

Your personal brand isn’t a project, it’s a lifestyle

A series of short observations on personal branding, AI, creativity, and modern marketing—why showing up matters, why efficiency can be overrated, and where real advantage is emerging.

Target’s $100 million Word-of-Mouth Marketing Fail

Target was lined up to create a great customer success but turned it into a word-of-mouth marketing fail, according to expert Sarah Neely.

Research points to the “Attention Equation” behind measurable content success

While most content success has been determined by audience size and engagement, a new “attention equation” looks at consumer focus and commitment to drive marketing value.