Hey Reader,
Today I did a dedicated 30-minute presentation in my Digital First Group Coaching Community about all the ins and outs of YouTube marketing.
YouTube has only gained importance outside of it being the second largest search engine in that more YouTube results are appearing in Google search results and that LLMs like ChatGPT are reading the transcriptions of YouTube videos. In this way your YouTube presence might have a bigger potential impact on your digital visibility than you might think.
More importantly, though, video, especially long-form video if people stay tuned watching, can help you develop the best relationship with viewers because of the authenticity and intimacy of the medium. When I look at lead generation from all of my social networks, I get the highest percentage of leads from traffic from YouTube than any other social media.
On the flip side, you can't treat YouTube like any other channel and just push your content on there and hope for success. You really need to become a user, understand the content that YouTube recommends in your niche, and analyze the videos that you see for hints at how you can up your content creation game.
There is a LOT that goes into becoming a successful YouTube creator, so my recommended book on the subject is The YouTube Formula by Derral Eves. You can also learn more in my interview I did with him for my Your Digital Marketing Coach podcast below!
Now on to this week's Top 10 news!
Please note: Some links in this newsletter are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through them, I may earn a small commission—at no extra cost to you.
1. This Week's Podcast Episode
I Just Solved Marketing's Biggest Time-Waster (12 Curated Marketing Agency Directories)
If you've ever wasted hours Googling agencies only to feel more lost than when you started, this episode is for you. I break down how I partnered with Clutch to create 12 vetted agency directories—from SEO to video to AI—personally curated based on real results and client feedback. Whether you're a startup or an enterprise, these lists save you time, reduce risk, and connect you with partners that actually deliver.
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2.-4. This Week's News
Trust Still Lives In Blue Links
If you’ve been stressing over AI Overviews stealing your traffic or killing conversions—take a breath. This new study shows that blue links still matter—a lot. Users may start with AI Overviews, but for anything high-stakes, they click out to trusted sources. The key takeaway? Trust drives conversions, not summaries. Optimize for AIO and authority, and you’ll win both attention and action. This research gives you the roadmap.
Microsoft Reportedly Plans To Start Using Anthropic Models To Power Some Of Office 365's Copilot Features
Microsoft may be quietly shaking up its AI game. Reports say it’s bringing Anthropic’s Claude models into Office 365 Copilot, potentially signaling tension with OpenAI, its longtime partner. While Microsoft denies any rift, this move suggests it’s now prioritizing performance over loyalty—especially if Claude creates better outputs (hello, prettier PowerPoints). The takeaway? If Microsoft’s going multi-model, maybe it’s time you stop relying on just one AI, too.
YouTube’s Multi-Language Audio Feature For Dubbing Videos Rolls Out To All Creators
YouTube just made global reach a whole lot easier. After two years of testing, their multi-language audio feature is officially live—meaning creators can now dub videos into different languages, powered by Google’s Gemini AI. Channels like Jamie Oliver have already seen massive growth from it. Add in localized thumbnails, and this is a game-changer for creators aiming to grow worldwide without starting new channels.
Create smarter, optimize faster: ideas, titles, keywords, thumbnails and more all in one place.
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5. AI Advice
AI Is The New OS — But Marketers’ Curiosity Will Decide Its Value
At HubSpot’s Inbound, AI dominated every conversation—but the real takeaway? It’s not about tools; it’s about curiosity. AI is fast becoming the new operating system of business, but without human curiosity, it’s just noise. This post explores how marketers can pair AI efficiency with curious, creative thinking to build real momentum. If you're leading teams, this is your cue to design for both scale and substance—because one without the other won’t cut it.
6. Search Advice
The State Of SEO 2026: How To Survive
SEO in 2026 is about balance. Search Engine Journal's new State of SEO report shows three clear paths: AI-heavy adopters, authority builders, and hybrid strategists who blend both. The standout insight? Original content still drives results, but scaling it is the hardest challenge. That’s why teams are leaning on AI for efficiency while doubling down on E-E-A-T to stand out. If you want to future-proof your SEO, this report is your playbook for surviving AI disruption.
This comprehensive playbook demystifies digital marketing, offering a clear roadmap to building and growing your brand on a realistic budget.
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7-8. Social Advice
LinkedIn Shares Video Marketing Tips
LinkedIn just confirmed what many of us already see: video rules the platform. With watch time up 36% year-over-year and video posts shared 20x more than other content, it’s the format B2B marketers can’t ignore. Their new guide highlights why authentic, informative videos—even simple phone recordings—perform best. Add in tools like CapCut integration and rising ad engagement, and the message is clear: if you want reach and trust on LinkedIn, video needs to be central.
X Shares Insights Into Key Factors That Dictate Post Reach
X just revealed what really drives reach in the For You feed—and it’s all about sparking replies and conversation. Posts that get people talking (especially with the author) are heavily rewarded, while video, dwell time, quotes, and bookmarks also boost visibility. On the flip side, links, all-caps, and anything flagged as “offensive” can tank your reach. Bottom line: if you want traction on X, focus on engaging replies, video, and authenticity—without spamming links.
Recommended Newsletters of the Week
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9.-10. Latest From My Blog
15 Digital Marketing Agencies Trusted By Fortune 500 Companies And Growing Businesses
Tired of sifting through “top agency” lists that feel more like ads than advice? I wrote this guide to cut through the hype and spotlight 15 digital marketing agencies that actually deliver results. Backed by real case studies, client reviews, and proven ROI, these aren't just names—they're partners you can trust. Whether you're after SEO, paid ads, or local leads, this list helps you find the right fit without the guesswork.
How To Create A LinkedIn Profile That Gets You Noticed (Complete Guide)
If you're serious about career growth, networking, or building your brand, your LinkedIn profile can't be an afterthought. I wrote this guide to show you exactly how to create a profile that not only looks great—but actually works for you 24/7. From photos to headlines to real optimization tips, this blog walks you through every step to make your LinkedIn profile your strongest digital asset.
If I can be of any help to you or your organization, please consider joining my Digital First Group Coaching Membership Community or considering hiring me as a Fractional CMO.
Warm regards,
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Fractional CMO / Author / Speaker / Educator
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