In this episode, the duo dives into the ongoing tug-of-war between CMOs and CFOs over what really counts as marketing success, the explosive rise of retail media as an essential - not optional - channel, and why AI isn’t replacing marketing teams, but transforming how they’re built. Plus, they spotlight bold campaigns that break the mold, celebrate Chicago’s marketing resilience, and tackle the wild world of city and state tourism budgets. Whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned pro, get ready for sharp commentary, quick-witted banter, and actionable takeaways in just 10 minutes.

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✅ Official: https://MarketingMachinesMischief.com

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Marketing, Machines & Mischief is produced by Chris Stone at https://CastAhead.net

What if the best marketing move you could make is to stop overthinking it?

This week, Matthew and Chris dissect Unilever's baffling decision to hire 300,000 influencers (yes, really), Timothée Chalamet's unhinged genius in film marketing, and why the YMCA's 175th anniversary rebrand didn't need blockchain or a pivot to "Y.io" to absolutely crush it. Plus: why Altoids' ancient tin packaging is a masterclass in forced consumer rituals, and what the hell happened to women's portrayal in advertising this year (spoiler: we went backwards).

Tune in for practical takeaways, a few laughs, and zero fluff. Because great marketing isn't just science - it's knowing which trends to steal and which consultants to ignore.

🔗 **Join The Marketing, Machines & Mischief Community**

✅ Official: https://MarketingMachinesMischief.com

✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarketingMachinesMischief

✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewnewell/

✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingMachinesMischief

✅ instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marketingmachinesmischief

Marketing, Machines & Mischief is produced by Chris Stone at https://CastAhead.net

What happens when 19% of a tech giant's revenue comes from scam ads running right next to your brand?

Matthew and Chris dive into Meta's $3 billion scandal, WPP's shocking valuation collapse, and why the UK just banned junk food advertising after 9 PM. This week's episode cuts through the noise with the kind of condensed marketing intelligence you won't find anywhere else. From KFC's masterclass in brand collaboration (Hawkins Fried Chicken, anyone?) to a surprisingly convincing argument that the pirate logo might be the most powerful brand symbol on earth, Matthew and Chris deliver their signature blend of authority, wit, and zero corporate BS.

Whether you're running your first campaign or your 500th, these ten minutes will make you sharper, smarter, and possibly hungry for fried chicken. No fluff. No filler. Just marketing intel that actually respects your time.

🔗 **Join The Marketing, Machines & Mischief Community**

✅ Official: https://MarketingMachinesMischief.com

✅ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MarketingMachinesMischief

✅ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewnewell/

✅ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MarketingMachinesMischief

✅ instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marketingmachinesmischief

Marketing, Machines & Mischief is produced by Chris Stone at https://CastAhead.net