We’re halfway through 2025 and AI is the buzzword on everyone's lips. And while it’s changing marketing fast, is the hype legitimate? Host James Lawrence is joined by Rocket Agency’s co-founder, David Lawrence, to unpack what AI adoption actually looks like on the ground, and how Australian marketers can equip themselves for what’s to come - inside agencies, in-house teams and across different marketing roles.

Key Takeaways:

• Reality check: Has AI lived up to the hype - or has it already surpassed it in some areas?
• Where today’s large language models (like ChatGPT, Gemini and Claude) are genuinely delivering value, and where the hype still outweighs results
• The shift from AI anxiety to AI empowerment and what that means for marketers’ careers
• What it means to adopt an “AI-first” mindset across different levels of marketing maturity
• How voice prompting and tools like Wispr are helping break old habits and unlock better output
• Why your workflow, not the tool, should determine which AI platforms you use
• A realistic look at AI in recruiting, what employers are really looking for and how to future-proof your role
• Tips for staying current: trusted newsletters to read and pragmatic influencers to follow

Guest:

David Lawrence is the MD and Co-Founder of Rocket, an award-winning Australian full-service digital marketing agency. He is also the co-author of the Amazon #1 best-selling marketing book, Smarter Marketer. David has presented at several events, including Inbound Boston, Search Marketing Summit, Mumbrella360, CEO Institute, and various seminars and in-house sessions.

You can follow David on LinkedIn.

Find Us Online:

James Lawrence LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jameslawrenceoz/

Smarter Marketer Website: https://rocketagency.com.au/smarter-marketer-podcast

Rocket Agency Website: https://rocketagency.com.au/

Rocket Agency LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rocket-agency-pty-ltd/

Buy Smarter Marketer:

Hardcover: https://amzn.to/30O63kg

Kindle: https://amzn.to/2ZqfCWm

About the Podcast:

This is the definitive podcast for Australian marketers. Join Rocket Agency Co-Founder and best-selling author, James Lawrence in conversation with marketers, leaders, and thinkers about what it takes to be a smarter and more successful marketer.