How do you build a 2026 marketing strategy when every week brings a new AI tool, a new “channel is dead” hot take, and pressure to do more with less?

Mike Leonhard, Compose.ly’s Co-Founder and CEO, joins Nicole to discuss the evolving landscape of digital marketing. Mike explains why no channel is truly dead, how AI is lowering the barrier to omnichannel execution, and why curiosity and experimentation matter more than any single tactic.

Nicole and Mike discuss how AI tools are democratizing sophisticated strategies, enhancing content quality, trust, and reputation. They explore AI's impact on SEO, the importance of a holistic campaign approach, and how mindset can determine a team's success or failure.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How to think about “dead” channels (ex. email) through the lens of evolution instead of abandonment
• How AI and new tools are unlocking true omnichannel marketing and why strong content and clear positioning still sit at the core
• Why your team’s curiosity and willingness to experiment will make or break your 2026 marketing strategy

Things to listen for

(00:00) Introduction

(00:58) Current marketing trends and predictions

(01:46) The evolution of marketing channels

(03:47) Omnichannel marketing strategies and AI tools

(05:21) The role of AI in marketing and automation

(08:55) Personalization, customer segmentation, and AI

(11:11) SEO, reputation management, and digital PR

(19:02) Challenges and risks in marketing: adapting to change

(28:21) Embracing change in marketing

Resources:

• Connect with Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-leonhard/
• Connect with Nicole: https://linkedin.com/in/nicolemmaclean/
• More from Compose.ly: https://compose.ly/content-matters
• Produced in partnership with Share Your Genius: https://shareyourgenius.com/
• Learn more about our sponsor, Apollo, here: https://www.apollo.io/