The Hired Swords is a Dungeons and Dragons actual play podcast with four knuckleheads and a sage DM. Roll with us as we TRY to survive and tell our epic tale of monsters and mystery.
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The Hired Swords Podcasts
Neil Patel and Eric Siu bring you daily ACTIONABLE digital marketing lessons that they've learned through years of being in the trenches. Whether you have a new website or you're an established business, you'll learn the latest SEO, content marketing, social media, email marketing, conversion optimization and general online marketing strategies that work today from people that actually practice marketing and operate business. Approaching 100M downloads with 2,500+ episodes, you're sure to fi ...
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Your favorite video store, but it's a podcast.
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Deep under the Temple of the Almenora, the Swords confront the man they've been searching for. In the middle of a ritual that seems to be able to devastate multiple planes of existence, Darnaldi has become more powerful and dangerous than the Swords ever thought possible. Its time to act, swarmed with Darnaldi's minions made of shadow and mist, our…
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AI Will Not Replace Your Website, Cluely’s Hiring of 700 Clippers – Smart or Dumb?, 2% of Creatives Drive 53% of Ad Spend – Meta, When Marketing Yields a 98% Profit Margin on a Commodity
24:41
24:41
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24:41In this episode #3011, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss the future of websites in an AI-driven world and how clipping strategies can drive viral content. They explore the power of women in consumer spending, Google’s resurgence in advertising, and why generalists remain valuable in the age of AI. The conversation highlights that while AI shifts busi…
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I Hired a Cursor Coach, Why I’m Hitting My Entire TAM With 400K Emails
15:44
15:44
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15:44In this episode #3010, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss the rise of cursor coaching to boost coding efficiency and the use of AI to streamline business processes. They explore innovative email marketing strategies and emphasize the importance of content quality for audience engagement. The conversation also touches on how the YouTube algorithm drive…
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Will Hardware Companies Turn Into Ad Companies? HP Is Launching an Ad Business With Laptop-Targeted Ads
21:13
21:13
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21:13In this episode #3009, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss the future of hardware companies shifting toward advertising and Apple's current innovation challenges. They explore how monetizing user data could shape the industry while examining the financial trade-offs between renting and owning property. The conversation also highlights why personal expe…
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The Best New Cookies in LA, Podcast Ads vs. Influencer Marketing, Inside Profound’s $20M Pitch Deck, Helping Brands Show Up in AI Search, Your Greatest Strength Is Also Your Weakness
39:27
39:27
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39:27In this episode #3008, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss the journey of launching a cookie business to illustrate marketing lessons and the importance of execution in business. They explore podcast advertising versus influencer marketing, raising capital, and navigating competition while balancing speed with detail. They also cover cutting costs stra…
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8,000 People vs. 1 Chatbot – Who Does It Better?
20:21
20:21
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20:21In this episode #3007, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss how AI is reshaping jobs and transforming marketing strategies. They explore the power of brand and distribution as moats, the rise of LLMO, and the use of controversial marketing and synthetic customer development to drive growth. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) The Impact of AI on Employment …
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Episode 280: Sinners/Black Bag/Den of Thieves 2
1:14:44
1:14:44
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1:14:44In this episode we discuss some newer films from 2025- Sinners, Black Bag, and Den of Thieves 2. Feel free to email at [email protected] with any comments or thoughts. Also be sure to follow us on Instagram @silverscreenvideopodcast, Twitter @SilverVideo, and TikTok silver.screen.vid.…
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In this episode #3006, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss how enduring discomfort is key to achieving excellence. They share concerns about raising resilient children in comfortable environments and highlight why pushing for results in business matters. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) The Pain of Excellence (10:13) Raising Resilient Children (20:21) T…
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Google Engineer Reveals the SEO Algorithm
23:40
23:40
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23:40In this episode #3005, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss how Google’s ranking algorithm works and why controlling your narrative matters in organizations. They explore how storytelling drives business growth while tackling the challenges of misinformation in society. The episode underscores the need for transparency and clear communication in a noisy…
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ChatGPT Quietly Switches From Bing to Google
26:39
26:39
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26:39In this episode #3004, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss the shift from Bing to Google and the Microsoft-OpenAI partnership’s impact on businesses. They cover how marketing agencies are evolving amid regulations and bureaucracy while emphasizing the role of relationships, referrals, and trust in driving B2B success. The episode wraps with lessons on …
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Episode 279: Unraveling Rope: A Real-Time Thriller
1:11:15
1:11:15
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1:11:15In this episode, we dive deep into Alfred Hitchcock’s audacious 1948 thriller Rope—a film that unfolds in real time and dares to disguise its cuts. We explore the true crime inspiration behind the story, Hitchcock’s technical wizardry with long takes and hidden edits, and the psychological tension simmering beneath the surface. From the chilling pe…
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1
MrBeast's SaaS Decision - A Mistake?, Pay per Crawl Launches for AI, Listicles Are Back, Why You Need Them for LLMs, How LLMs Will Rank You in the Future, AI Content Farms Are the New Arbitrage?
23:33
23:33
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23:33In this episode #3003, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss MrBeast's ViewStats and the AI thumbnail backlash, Cloudflare's pay-to-play model, and how LLMs are shaping the future of SEO. They also cover the challenges of monetizing AI content and the potential of hiring AI automation interns to boost workflow efficiency. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) …
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The Collapse of Jaguar, How Meta Is Buying OpenAI Right in Front of Us, AI Mode vs. Classic Search Data, ChatGPT 5 Will Be INSANE
26:01
26:01
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26:01In this episode #3002, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss the collapse of Jaguar due to marketing missteps and the importance of understanding core audiences. They dive into Meta's AI acquisitions, compare user behavior in AI mode versus classic search, highlight ChatGPT's dominance, and share insights on investment strategies in tech companies. TIME-…
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In this episode #3001, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss the challenges and benefits of remote work, the push for in-person collaboration to boost accountability, and how direct communication impacts team productivity. They also touch on optimizing processes for efficiency and share innovative marketing strategies used by brands like Michelin and Red…
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1
Alex Becker's Smart YouTube SaaS Strategy, What Is Spectacle Marketing?
22:47
22:47
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22:47In this episode #3000, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss how to leverage YouTube for business growth by focusing on content quality over flashy production. They explore the good and bad of spectacle marketing while analyzing creators like Alex Becker and Mr. Beast. The episode wraps with insights on the future of marketing and integrating AI to stay …
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As shadow vines retreat throughout the ancient temple, our heroes uncover the truth about the entity behind the shadows. Now the adventurers await the opening of a sealed door that will lead them to their final confrontation. The Hired SwordsBy Blaise Lacktis
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1
Inside The Mind of a $500M Entrepreneur | Jess Mah
1:17:28
1:17:28
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1:17:28Jess Mah went from an immigrant family in a small New York apartment to building a $500M net worth—without a trust fund. In this episode, we unpack the mindset, strategies, and wild experiments that got her there. And wait until you hear her take on why most people never get rich. Let’s dive in! TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) Understanding Wealth …
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In episode #2999, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss the mindset behind taking action, the grit required to build a business, and how personal growth and priorities evolve over time. They share lessons from the early days of Single Grain, highlight the emotional toll of leadership, and talk about balancing ambition with family and purpose. TIME-STAMPE…
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Episode 278: Born on the Fourth of July
1:30:15
1:30:15
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1:30:15In this episode, we take a deep dive into Oliver Stone’s powerful 1989 biographical drama Born on the Fourth of July, starring Tom Cruise in a career-defining role as Vietnam veteran Ron Kovic. We explore how the film portrays Kovic’s journey from idealistic youth and proud Marine to paralyzed anti-war activist, examining its raw depiction of traum…
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In episode #2998, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss how traditional SEO remains relevant despite AI advancements. They explore the evolution of content creation, the balance between competition and collaboration, and how seasonal trends affect agency revenue. The conversation underscores the importance of adaptability and maintaining human-focused st…
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1
How to Grow Your Revenue With Dinners & Live Events
30:20
30:20
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30:20In this episode #2997, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss how networking dinners and live events can drive revenue by building strong relationships in B2B. They share insights on curating the right guests, running events smoothly, and using personal connections for business growth. The episode wraps with thoughts on how AI is reshaping search engines …
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How To Grow Your Revenue Using Dinners, Webinars, and Live Events
30:16
30:16
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30:16In this episode #2996, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss using events—especially webinars—as powerful tools for revenue growth and trust-building in B2B marketing. They highlight the importance of delivering timely content, nurturing long-term relationships, and leveraging tech to enhance webinar experiences. The episode also explores upcoming AI-dri…
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The $100M Marketing Strategy In An AI World
44:36
44:36
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44:36In this special throwback episode, Eric Siu joins the Digital Social Hour Podcast by Sean Kelly to reveal his game-changing strategies. From acquiring companies around the world to building AI tools that eliminate grunt work, Eric breaks down how he's reshaping the future of marketing and business. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) The Journey of Acq…
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Episode 277: Vengeance in the Boardroom: The Bad Sleep Well (1960)
1:14:46
1:14:46
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1:14:46In this episode, we dive deep into Akira Kurosawa’s The Bad Sleep Well (1960), a noir-inspired tale of corporate corruption and personal revenge. This searing indictment of postwar Japanese bureaucracy, and the moral ambiguity of its tragic protagonist, played by Toshiro Mifune. Was justice ever possible in this rigged system?Feel free to email at …
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1
Should You Build or Should You Buy?, Why In-Person Yields Incredible Results (And How To Do It), Why You Must Be Having An Epiphany Each Week Right Now
27:27
27:27
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27:27In this episode #2995, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss the strategic choice between building or buying businesses, the value of in-person connections, and the evolving importance of community and authentic content. They reflect on balancing work with personal life, finding joy in small moments, and the need for constant growth in a changing world. …
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In this episode #2994, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss the wide-ranging impact of AI, from its effects on brain connectivity to personal strategies for using it in daily life. They explore AI’s role in health, business, productivity, marketing, and the future of SEO, sharing personal insights and practical tips along the way. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTE…
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Advice We Gave To 20 Something Millionaires, Modern Founders Will Be Half Influencer Half Founder, Every Company Will Become Half Media Company Half The Original Business What Eric Learned From Disappearing ...
23:07
23:07
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23:07In this episode #2993, Eric and Neil discuss advice for young entrepreneurs, the role of AI in entrepreneurship, and leadership lessons learned from stepping back. They wrap up by analyzing how AI is impacting sales, marketing, and attribution challenges in a fast-changing landscape. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) Advice for Young Entrepreneurs (0…
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Why AI SEO is BS, AI is actually making you STUPIDER
18:00
18:00
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18:00In this episode #2992, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss how AI SEO is mostly a rebrand of traditional SEO and stress the value of foundational knowledge. They also explore how heavy reliance on AI could impact cognitive abilities, especially in kids. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) The Reality of AI SEO (09:41) The Impact of AI on Cognitive Abilitie…
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In this episode we discuss Spirited Away from 2001. Feel free to email at [email protected] with any comments or thoughts. Also be sure to follow us on Instagram @silverscreenvideopodcast, Twitter @SilverVideo, and TikTok silver.screen.vid.
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95% Of ChatGPT Citations Are Recent.. AI Is Beating Humans, Charlie Munger’s Sales Leader On Closing EVERY Deal, Google Dropping Rich Results To Simplify Search, Marketing Agencies Hit Summer Slumps Even ...
20:15
20:15
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20:15In this episode #2991, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss how fresh content boosts inclusion in AI overviews and share simple strategies to optimize for it. They explore the growing quality of AI-generated content like VO3, classic sales tactics from The Ultimate Sales Machine, and the importance of creativity, timing, and standing out. They also touc…
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The party descends into the cavern, determined to find Darnaldi and end the reign of the shadows. Each chamber presents its own test—some challenging their strength, others their wits, and a few forcing them to confront fears they’d rather leave buried. Separated from their allies, they push forward alone, listening to the unsettling silence that t…
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1
If You're Not Adopting AI, F**k You. You Will Be A Burden On Society, Unilever To Hire 20-30x More Influencers, How We're Handling Influencer Pitches, LLM Marketing Will Be Controlled By The Brand Side ...
24:42
24:42
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24:42In this episode #2990, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss why adopting AI is essential, the tension between optimism and pessimism in business, and how to navigate chaos. They explore the growth of influencer marketing, B2B CTV advertising, and the evolving role of branding and AI in strategy. The episode wraps with thoughts on how media shapes public…
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1
Reddit Uses AI To Translate Millions Of Pages And Google’s OK With It, How To Effectively Recruit Offshore Talent Using AI, What's More Important Than Business, What The Future Of SaaS Will Look Like ...
26:02
26:02
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26:02In this episode #2989, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss how AI is transforming translation, content creation, and talent acquisition. They reflect on work-life balance, the value of relationships in business, and the growing trend toward one-click SaaS and marketing solutions. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) The Role of AI in Translation and Content…
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Does ChatGPT Actually Have A Higher Conversion Rate Than Google Traffic?, AI Traffic Is Not Being Tracked Accurately, How To Actually Spread AI Adoption Throughout Your Company, AI Is Slashing Headcount ...
25:17
25:17
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25:17In this episode #2988, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss how ChatGPT is changing user behavior and conversion rates compared to Google. They explore the rise of AI assistants in search, the cost efficiency of AI tools, and the need for AI fluency and cultural shifts within organizations. The episode wraps with insights on Google’s recent workforce ch…
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1
Is There Really A Summer Slump In B2B Marketing?, How We Are Managing Multiple Offers Right Now, What Are We Doing To Build A Brand
22:46
22:46
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22:46In this episode #2987, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss navigating B2B summer slumps, managing multiple offers, and building authentic brands. They also explore the emotional side of AI-generated content and the importance of valuing relationships over wealth. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) Navigating Summer Slumps in B2B Marketing (04:21) Managing…
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1
Meta Is Letting AI Do All The Ad Work, Elon VS Trump- A Lesson On What You Shouldn't Do Online, We're Seeing Marketing Pick Up In Countries That Are Cutting Rates
22:34
22:34
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22:34In this episode #2986, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss AI in advertising, the need for human-AI collaboration, and challenges for small businesses. They also touch on online feuds and global marketing trends. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) AI in Advertising: Meta's Vision (01:28) Challenges for Small Businesses Using AI (04:04) The Future of Marke…
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In this episode we discuss some of the best movies of the century then dive into our main movie, Mickey 17. Feel free to email at [email protected] with any comments or thoughts. Also be sure to follow us on Instagram @silverscreenvideopodcast, Twitter @SilverVideo, and TikTok silver.screen.vid.…
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1
Famed Investor Asserts That AI Is Underhyped, How ChatGPT Connectors Are Changing The Game For Businesses
21:07
21:07
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21:07In this episode #2985, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss the rapid rise of AI adoption, major infrastructure investments, and the future of AI in marketing. They explore market valuations, the efficiency of OpenAI connectors, and the regulatory issues around data ownership in enterprise software. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) AI Adoption and Infras…
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1
How Losing Someone Can Completely Reshape You In Business, Chaos Is Always Present In Business. You Choose Who Absorbs It
34:18
34:18
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34:18In this episode #2984, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss how personal loss shapes leadership, highlighting the value of preparation, resilience, and hiring strong problem-solvers. They also explore how AI drives accountability and why tough times are often the best for making key hires. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) Navigating Loss and Business Tra…
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1
Episode 274: The Hunt for Red October
1:09:30
1:09:30
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1:09:30In this episode we talk about The Hunt for Red October. Feel free to email at [email protected] with any comments or thoughts. Also be sure to follow us on Instagram @silverscreenvideopodcast, Twitter @SilverVideo, and TikTok silver.screen.vid.
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1
Should You Run Your Marketing Team From Home Or From An Office?, Stop Trying To Measure Everything, A/B Testing At Its Finest, Google Lens Coming To YouTube Shorts
18:40
18:40
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18:40In this episode #2983, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss handling negative feedback on social media, the shift in remote work dynamics, and how AI is reshaping workforce structures. They highlight the engagement value of negative headlines and explore innovations in commerce through tools like Google Lens and YouTube Shorts. The conversation undersco…
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The swords are deep within the caverns beneath the Temple of Almenora. Something very strange is happening down here, seeming something intended just for each of the members of our party. What could possibly be happening, and is it truly bad luck to ever split the party? Visit our website to subscribe...…
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1
How We Keep A Positive Mindset When Things Are Rocky Economically, AI Has Killed Informational Content For SEO
28:28
28:28
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28:28In this episode #2982, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss maintaining a positive mindset during economic challenges, emphasizing resilience, perspective, and adding value to others. They explore the shift in content marketing strategies driven by AI, stressing the need for original, value-driven content that resonates with the ideal customer. The conv…
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When Marketing Can Go Wrong: Taco Bell Adds Quality Meats To Its Creative Roster, How We Are Going To Test Using AI On Our Marketing Qualified Leads
18:57
18:57
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18:57In this episode #2981, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss when marketing goes wrong, using Taco Bell’s quality meat announcement as an example, and contrast it with effective strategies that drive positive results. They highlight the role of AI in generating marketing qualified leads, the power of consistent follow-ups, and the value of authenticity a…
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1
What I Learned By Talking To A Marketing Team About AI At A Company That Generates Over 20 Billion A Year, SEOs Are Getting Fired Left And Right
29:03
29:03
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29:03In this episode #2981, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss the challenges and opportunities of AI in marketing, highlighting the gap between AI adoption and actual business results. They explore the future of SEO, the importance of accountability in AI usage, and the need for consistent brand engagement. The conversation also emphasizes collaboration o…
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In this episode we talk about the Mission Impossible movies and the 13 Assassins remake from 2013. Feel free to email at [email protected] with any comments or thoughts. Also be sure to follow us on Instagram @silverscreenvideopodcast, Twitter @SilverVideo, and TikTok silver.screen.vid.…
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1
Cool S**t We're Doing In AI This Quarter, How This Weird Economy Is Affecting Marketing, How We're Generating Pipeline In A Weird Economy
24:27
24:27
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24:27In this episode #2980, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss how AI is revolutionizing advertising, the evolution of digital marketing strategies, and shifting workplace dynamics. They also reflect on the trade-offs between fame and anonymity in today’s digital world. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) Revolutionizing Advertising with AI (02:55) The Evoluti…
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1
How Netflix Is Revolutionizing Ad Buying, Bosses Are Done Being 'Nice’, 14M YouTuber Quits - Is Going Viral Worth It?
18:03
18:03
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18:03In this episode #2979, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss how AI is transforming advertising, including Netflix's dynamic ad placements. They explore shifts in digital marketing, evolving workplace expectations, and the balance between fame and anonymity in the digital age. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) Revolutionizing Advertising with AI (02:55) Th…
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1
SEO Attribution Is COMPLETELY F**CKED, Dressing Nice Doesn't Make You More Money, How To Get A 50% Discount On Luxury Clothes
24:50
24:50
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24:50In this episode #2978, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss the challenges of SEO attribution, the evolution of marketing, and the need to prioritize customer value over metrics. They also explore the role of personal branding, appearance, and the psychology of giving in business success. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:00) The Challenge of SEO Attribution …
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1
Why I Fired My $25k/mo YouTube Agency, The Business Case for AI Mode, Website Traffic Is Toast (The Rapid Decline)
36:02
36:02
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36:02In this episode #2977, Eric Siu and Neil Patel discuss Neil’s experience with a YouTube agency, emphasizing the importance of strong scripts and the challenges with communication. They share insights on managing video content, the shifting impact of SEO and AI, and adapting to changes in website traffic and attribution. TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES (00:…
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