Stay Current, Marketing Friends
When I teach marketing courses, students often ask me how to stay current in marketing. To me, there isn’t a single source for news. But, I do have a few favourite podcasts, newsletter subscriptions and education resources that I recommend. Some are less than traditional but help spark creativity. Others are tried and true. Here are my top picks:
How I Built This Host, Guy Raz, doing his thing on stage at a recent book event.
Great Podcasts
How I Built This aka HIBT
Although not marketing specific, each episode is incredibly engaging and inspiring. HIBT host Guy Raz interviews founders of heavy weight companies that have or will leave a profound mark of excellence on their respective industries. When I need something interesting and uplifting, HIBT is my go-to.
Two succinct and incredibly knowledgeable British lads take us on a 20-25 minute journey into the marketing world on a regular basis. I’m a new listener but already a big fan. These guys are great at starting high level and working their way down into the technical details.
This colourful podcast has it’s roots in the digital nomad lifestyle but is chalk-full of practical information about sales and marketing, especially for SAS companies. My friend and Technical SEO master, Jase Rodley recommended it years ago and my husband and I have been hooked ever since. Just a head’s up, it can get pretty nerdy, but the info is hyper-current. I especially love this recent episode about improving sales funnels with special guest John Ainsworth of Data Driven Marketing.
Superb Email Newsletters
The Hustle Newsletter is one of the few (maybe only?) subscriptions worthy of a daily cadence.
This delightful newsletter is both witty and useful. The Hustle is an easy read. It keeps me in the loop of what’s happening in technology and business across North America. Don’t miss this one, it’s gold.
I have a complicated relationship with social media. But as a marketer, it’s crucial to be aware of what’s happening in this landscape as it all changes so quickly. Often, I just skim headlines from Social Media Today’s newsletter and that works well for my needs.
If brand campaigns are part of your scope, Adweek is a crucial resource. See what’s trending and bombing in big brand land. I love getting ideas by reviewing what agencies are dreaming up at the moment. Plus the journalism is refreshingly honest. For example, “Nike Wants You To Play New Sports Even If You Suck At Them”.
Marketing <> Analytics Intersect Newsletter
This one’s special. Cerebral and articulate, I reserve these newsletters for quieter periods when I can really sink my teeth into the concepts Avinash Kaushik has on tap. As a big deal at Google, Kaushik kindly offers a free version of his newsletter focused on advanced analytics concepts about ten times a year. Perfect frequency for me.
Continued Education
New Google Skillshop and Facebook Blueprint Modules
Checked back in with Facebook and Google Product to see what’s new in thier certifications. The programs are so wildly robust now. Expect, webinars, learning tracks and web-based classes for all types of marketers and developers. It’s fantastic. I’m really into:
Facebook Blueprint options
Yes, ultimately this company is trying to sell us their enterprise platform. But, Hubspot has made some incredibly helpful marketing guides and templates in the process. I wouldn’t hesitate to spend the time and take these courses (they’re also free). A great example: How SEO Works for the HubSpot Blog: The Search Insights Report Framework.
What other marketing resources are cutting through the noise and grabbing your attention? Drop a link in the comments: