Marketing visionary David Meerman Scott returns to share his cutting-edge insights into the evolving digital marketing landscape. From being dismissed for his innovative ideas to becoming a global thought leader, David recounts his journey and the immense growth in online engagement that has shaped today’s marketing world. With AI, social media, and video now at the forefront, David stresses the importance of keeping human connection alive in our digital interactions.   Storytelling emerges as a powerful tool in marketing, and we discuss how businesses can form genuine bonds with their audiences through impactful content. Drawing on examples like Hagerty Insurance’s success with classic car enthusiasts, we highlight the struggle many companies face as they cling to outdated strategies. AI's role in content creation is explored, showcasing how it has transformed tasks like transcription and editing, allowing for efficient production of diverse content without compromising on quality.   We dive into modern tools that streamline content creation, eradicating the "no time" excuse. Leveraging AI models and transcription services, creating high-quality content for web and social media is now faster than ever. We emphasize establishing authority through consistent content production, as AI-based search tools gain traction. The episode wraps up with niche content strategies, revealing how specific themes can capture media interest and unlock unique opportunities amidst rapid technological advancements.  David Meerman Scott spotted the real-time marketing revolution in its infancy and wrote five books about it including The New Rules of Marketing and PR, now in an 8th edition, with more than 425,000 copies sold in English and available in 29 languages from Albanian to Vietnamese.   Now David says the pendulum has swung too far in the direction of superficial online communications. Tech-weary and bot-wary people are hungry for true human connection. Organizations have learned to win by developing what David calls a “Fanocracy” - (the subject of his Wall Street Journal bestseller) - tapping into the mindset that relationships with customers are more important than the products they sell to them.   He is a massive live music fan, having been to 984 live shows since he was 15 years old, is passionate about the Apollo lunar program, and he loves to surf but isn't very good at it.    Quotes:  "In an AI-driven world, maintaining humanity in digital interactions is more crucial than ever."  "Storytelling isn't just about telling tales; it's about forging genuine connections with your audience."  "The excuse of 'no time' for content creation is obsolete with the modern tools we have today."     Links:   David’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmeermanscott/   Fanocracy - https://www.davidmeermanscott.com/books/fanocracy  The New Rules of Marketing & PR (9th Edition) - https://www.davidmeermanscott.com/books/the-new-rules-of-marketing-and-pr     Get this episode and all other episodes of Sales Lead Dog at https://empellorcrm.com/salesleaddog