By Clinch This State of the Industry report, sponsored by Clinch, explores how brands and agencies are refining their approaches to ad serving and unlocking new opportunities.

While the ad server has always played a critical role in the digital marketing ecosystem, these tools have continued to evolve across delivery, tracking and reporting. In 2024 and 2025, technology is advancing in lockstep with increasing investments in dynamic creative optimization and personalization at scale — allowing brands and agencies to deliver more relevant ad experiences and maximize ROI.

In this new State of the Industry report, Digiday and Clinch polled 85 brand and agency respondents to learn more about the pivotal role of ad serving as they refine their strategies and drive business outcomes. For example, 63% of our respondents expected ad serving to generate at least 41% of their revenue in 2024. This is up from 2023 when 16% of our respondents reported that ad serving accounted for at least 41% of their revenue.Continue reading this article on digiday.com. Sign up for Digiday newsletters to get the latest on media, marketing and the future of TV. …read more

Source:: Digiday

By Headlines Team The rise of social media has given couples a platform to share everything about their lives, from major milestones to daily moments.

But what about the hard times? Should couples share their struggles together on social media? While transparency can foster connection and support, it can also open the door to unintended consequences.

Let’s explore the benefits and drawbacks of sharing relationship struggles online and consider how healthcare coverage can support couples facing challenges.

This blog breaks down what you need to know.

The Impact of Social Media on Relationship Dynamics

Social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, and its impact on relationship dynamics cannot be ignored. The way we communicate, interact, and present ourselves on social media can significantly affect our relationships.

How Social Media Affects Communication and Connectivity in Relationships

Social media has made it easier for couples to stay connected and communicate with each other, regardless of physical distance. However, it can also create unrealistic expectations and promote unhealthy communication habits.

For instance, the constant need for validation and attention on social media can lead to feelings of insecurity and jealousy in relationships.

The Benefits of Sharing Relationship Struggles on Social Media Accounts

In today’s digital world, authenticity is valued. Couples who share their struggles online may receive an outpouring of support from friends, family, and even strangers, highlighting the positive aspects of social media.

This can be comforting, particularly for those who feel isolated in their difficulties. Seeing others respond with encouragement, advice, or similar experiences can help couples feel less alone.

The Risks of Publicly Sharing Relationship Dynamics

Despite the potential benefits, sharing struggles on social media comes with risks. Relationship challenges are deeply personal, and exposing them to a broad audience can invite unwanted opinions, criticism, or even judgment. 

Well-meaning advice may not always be helpful, and negative comments can add stress rather than provide support.

Sharing struggles can also lead to comparisons with others’ curated online lives, which may exacerbate feelings of inadequacy or dissatisfaction.

There is also the question of privacy. Even if both partners agree to share certain struggles, one may feel more vulnerable than the other. Over time, this can create resentment or a sense of imbalance.

Additionally, future implications should be considered. Once something is shared online, it can be difficult to take back. If a couple reconciles after a public argument or breakup, past posts may continue to surface, affecting the relationship’s ability to heal.

Navigating Social Media as a Couple

Navigating social media as a couple can be challenging, but it’s essential to establish healthy habits and boundaries to maintain a strong and healthy relationship.

Healthy Social Media Habits

Healthy social media habits are crucial for maintaining a strong and healthy relationship. Here are some tips for couples:

Set ground rules: Establish clear boundaries and guidelines for social media use, such as not posting intimate moments or not engaging with ex-partners.

Communicate openly: Talk to each other about your online interactions and feelings.

Be respectful: Avoid posting hurtful or disrespectful comments about each other.

Take breaks: …read more

Source:: Social Media Explorer

By Adam In an era where digital engagement is the heartbeat of business success, small enterprises are discovering the transformative potential of video marketing. Imagine crafting a vibrant tapestry of visuals and storytelling that captivates your audience’s attention and invites them to explore your brand more deeply. As our lives become increasingly intertwined with digital content, videos offer an unparalleled opportunity to convey complex narratives in seconds, making them indispensable for businesses eager to shine in a crowded marketplace.

Captivating Audiences in the Digital Age with Video

In today’s fast-paced digital world, video marketing has emerged as a vital tool for small businesses eager to stand out. By weaving video into your marketing strategy, you can build stronger relationships with your customers through storytelling and transparent communication. Adding interactive elements like QR codes and clickable links can further boost user engagement, paving the way for lasting brand loyalty.

Connecting Through Insightful Audience Analysis

Knowing your audience is key to creating video content that truly connects. By pinpointing who your product or service is meant for, you can tailor your message to their specific needs and preferences. Using tools like video analytics and audience feedback, you can uncover which themes resonate most with your viewers, enhancing your marketing efforts. Personalizing content based on audience demographics not only increases engagement but also fosters a loyal customer base. Embrace these strategies to ensure your videos deliver the right message to the right people, optimizing your marketing outcomes.

Crafting Cost-Effective Video Campaigns

Creating engaging video content doesn’t have to break the bank. As a small business owner, you can leverage affordable tools and strategies to produce high-quality videos. Utilize resources like smartphone cameras and budget-friendly editing software to craft polished videos without the hefty price tag of professional production. Focus on planning, scripting, and storyboarding to ensure your videos convey a clear, compelling message tailored to your target audience. Testing your videos with a small audience before a full-scale release can provide valuable insights into quality and engagement, allowing you to adjust and align with viewer preferences.

Tailoring Video Content for Maximum Reach

To make the most of video marketing, it’s crucial to tailor your content for each platform’s unique audience and technical requirements. Videos can significantly boost brand visibility and engagement. Understanding each platform’s strengths allows you to craft videos that maximize impact. For instance, opt for short, catchy clips on TikTok and Instagram Reels, while detailed explainer videos work well on YouTube. By optimizing your approach, you ensure every piece of video content resonates effectively with its intended audience, fostering deeper connections and driving desired actions. Monitoring metrics like view counts and click-through rates can help you refine your strategy, keeping your videos relevant and compelling.

Measuring Success Through Metrics

To gauge the success of your video marketing efforts, focus on key performance indicators (KPIs) that reflect viewer engagement and conversion potential. Important metrics include view count, which measures a video’s reach, and play rate, indicating how compelling the video thumbnail and title are. Engagement shows how much of …read more

Source:: Social Media Explorer

By Sara Guaglione LinkedIn is encouraging publishers that are part of its pre-roll video advertising program to post more on the platform, and publishers are meeting that demand with little additional effort, in part by clipping videos taken at their conferences and other events.

According to Adam Banicki, Fortune’s head of video. Fortune has signed three brand deals for the Wire program, which launched last summer and lets publishers sell 3- to 15-second-long pre-roll ads on their editorial videos. Both the publisher and LinkedIn can sell that inventory.

Videos from live events in particular have been part of those deals, including one to two minute clips from Fortune’s conferences. A fourth campaign is being developed to go live later this quarter, and will include both video series and video clips from events, he said. Continue reading this article on digiday.com. Sign up for Digiday newsletters to get the latest on media, marketing and the future of TV. …read more

Source:: Digiday

By Eyeota Nate Carter, vice president global sales, Dun & Bradstreet

Ad spending in retail media continues to exceed expectations, representing one of the fastest-growing media opportunities on record. However, continued growth and maturation in this space aren’t a given. It will take a dedicated focus among retail media networks and their advertisers to overcome data challenges and realize the true potential of this space.

U.S. retail media will be the fastest-growing ad channel through 2027, when it is forecasted to reach $109.4 billion. By 2027, retail media is expected to be bigger than connected TV, digital audio and traditional television advertising combined.Continue reading this article on digiday.com. Sign up for Digiday newsletters to get the latest on media, marketing and the future of TV. …read more

Source:: Digiday

In today’s fast-paced digital landscape, standing out from the competition is more challenging than ever. Businesses need strategic visibility, direct access to decision-makers, and powerful networking opportunities to stay ahead. That’s where DigiMarCon comes in.

DigiMarCon, the world’s leading digital marketing conference series, is back for 2025, bigger and better than ever. With events hosted in prime locations across the globe, DigiMarCon attracts thousands of industry professionals, thought leaders, and innovative brands. Now is your chance to place your business in front of this high-impact audience by becoming a sponsor.

Why Sponsor DigiMarCon 2025?

1. Exclusive Brand Visibility

Gain exposure to thousands of marketing professionals, business owners, and executives who are eager to discover new solutions. Your brand will be prominently featured across event materials, websites, social media, and live sessions, maximizing your reach and recognition.

2. Direct Access to Decision-Makers

Sponsoring DigiMarCon 2025 places you in the same room with key decision-makers and industry leaders. Whether through networking sessions, exhibit booths, or speaking opportunities, you’ll have direct engagement with potential clients and partners looking for innovative products and services.

3. Lead Generation & ROI

DigiMarCon isn’t just about exposure—it’s about real business growth. Sponsors have the opportunity to generate high-quality leads from engaged attendees actively seeking marketing solutions. With a captive audience, your investment will yield valuable connections and long-term customer relationships.

4. Industry Authority & Thought Leadership

Aligning with DigiMarCon positions your brand as an authority in the digital marketing space. Take the stage as a sponsor to share insights, showcase your expertise, and build credibility within the industry.

5. Global Reach with Local Impact

With events in North America, Europe, Asia, and beyond, DigiMarCon offers sponsors a global platform while ensuring targeted engagement in key regional markets. You can select events that best align with your business objectives and target audience.

Sponsorship Opportunities Tailored to Your Needs

Whether you’re a startup looking for brand awareness or an established enterprise seeking high-level partnerships, DigiMarCon offers sponsorship packages designed to fit your goals. From exhibiting and speaking opportunities to custom activations, our team will work with you to craft a sponsorship package that delivers maximum value.

Secure Your Spot Today

Don’t miss the opportunity to be part of DigiMarCon 2025. Stand out, generate leads, and connect with industry leaders who can take your business to the next level.

Visit DigiMarCon Sponsorship Page to explore sponsorship options and reserve your spot today.

Join us in shaping the future of digital marketing—one connection at a time!

By Alexis Hall I’m delighted to share significant news about the future of TopRank Marketing: Lee Odden, our co-founder and former CEO, has acquired 100% ownership of the agency and has returned to lead us once again as CEO and Chairman.
Lee Odden CEO 2.0 – Many of you know Lee from his tenure guiding TopRank Marketing as co-founder and CEO for 18 years, during which he helped lead the integration of content, social media, and influencer marketing in the B2B marketing industry. Under his leadership, our B2B marketing agency enjoyed some of its most innovative and successful years, earning recognition for the results we delivered for Fortune 500 companies and fast growing mid-market brands alike.
Thought Leadership for B2B Leaders – Lee’s deep involvement in the marketing industry—reflected by his inclusion in publications like The Wall Street Journal, The Economist, and Forbes—has consistently put TopRank Marketing at the forefront of modern B2B marketing strategies. Trusted to deliver hundreds of informative marketing presentations all over the world, Lee is author of the book Optimize and thousands of marketing blog posts. He has been a guest to numerous industry interviews and produced several podcasts. Lee’s thought leadership efforts on behalf of TopRank have impacted the way many B2B brands approach marketing.
A Passion for B2B Marketing Service and Results – From the entire TopRank Marketing team, I want to share our excitement in welcoming Lee back. Having worked closely with him in the past, I’ve seen firsthand how his leadership, dedication to client success, and passion for B2B marketing innovation have helped shape our agency’s culture and reputation. His return reinforces the TopRank Marketing commitment to delivering the kind of high-quality, data-informed creative marketing solutions and amazing service that make our agency a trusted marketing partner to some of the top B2B brands in the industry.
Thank you Donna – Alongside this news, we want to extend our sincere gratitude to Donna Robinson, who has stepped down from her role as CEO. Over the past year and a half, Donna has led with integrity, empathy, and deep care for our clients and team members. We truly appreciate her guidance during a period of continued growth for TopRank Marketing, and we wish her every success as she moves on to new ventures.
“I’m incredibly proud of what the TopRank Marketing team has accomplished. I am certain that TopRank will continue to grow and thrive with Lee’s vision and leadership” -Donna Robinson 
I want to thank all of our clients, partners, and friends in the industry for your ongoing support of TopRank’s mission to deliver the best in B2B marketing. We’re excited about this transition and our continued evolution as a trusted B2B marketing partner and look forward to the continued evolution of our service to you. If you have any questions about our big news, please feel free to reach out to me or Lee directly.
The post Announcing Lee Odden as TopRank Marketing’s New Owner and CEO appeared first on TopRank® Marketing. …read more

Source:: Top Rank Blog

By Michael Bürgi Less than two full months into 2025 — and with something like four to six months before its acquisition by Omnicom is consummated (if it’s consummated) — Interpublic Group is experiencing challenges on an almost-unprecedented level. But the payoff in the end could be worth the trouble, since a merged company would easily be the biggest purveyor of principal media, which regardless of one’s opinions on the ethics of the practice, can make a holding company a lot of money.

Here’s a walk-through of those challenges and opportunities IPG has in store. This is a member-exclusive article from Digiday. Continue reading it on digiday.com and subscribe to continue reading content like this. …read more

Source:: Digiday

By Editorialist Team Digital marketing has emerged as one of the most essential aspects of modern business strategy. Whether you’re an independent consultant or part of a large agency, the responsibilities can be wide-ranging: creating engaging content, coordinating social media updates, monitoring metrics, and frequently revisiting strategies to meet evolving consumer demands. Amid these ongoing tasks, marketers are constantly on the lookout for new methods and tools to stay competitive and efficient in a crowded space.

One technology that has gained significant traction in recent years is artificial intelligence (AI). Although AI can sometimes sound daunting, its real-world applications can be surprisingly straightforward. When designed with the user in mind, AI-driven tools can help teams automate repetitive tasks, keep track of large volumes of data, and provide general insights that support decision-making processes. This is where Neuroclone’s AI assistant comes into play, offering a solution focused on streamlining the more routine aspects of digital marketing.

What Is Neuroclone?

Neuroclone is an AI-driven platform that aims to simplify daily tasks in a variety of industries, including digital marketing. While the concept of AI often conjures up visions of highly specialized or complex systems, Neuroclone’s assistant focuses on providing broad, supportive functions. This means it is designed to integrate smoothly into existing workflows without requiring an overhaul of your current strategies or tools. Instead of taking over the creative and strategic side of marketing, it targets the basic organizational responsibilities that can free up a marketer’s time and attention.

How Neuroclone Can Help Digital Marketers (in General Terms)

Data Compilation: One of the biggest challenges in digital marketing is collecting and sorting through performance metrics. From website traffic and social media engagement to email open rates, having all this information in one place can be a game-changer. Neuroclone’s AI assistant can help compile and organize data from different channels, allowing teams to access a clearer picture of campaign performance without manual aggregation.

Routine Task Management: Marketers often run multiple campaigns simultaneously. Keeping track of content calendars, promotional schedules, and posting times can be cumbersome. Neuroclone’s AI assistant offers simple reminders and scheduling prompts that support a more organized workflow. Rather than spending time setting up notifications and manually checking platforms, users can rely on the assistant to maintain these day-to-day tasks.

Preliminary Insights: While deep marketing analysis typically requires professional expertise, having a quick overview of engagement trends can aid in making timely adjustments. Neuroclone’s AI assistant can highlight where a campaign might be gaining traction—such as noting an uptick in clicks or a higher number of social shares—so teams have a broad sense of which areas might warrant more focus.

Resource Allocation: Another benefit of AI-driven organization is the ability to see how resources are being used. Neuroclone can help marketing teams log tasks and deadlines, providing a general overview of workload distribution. This makes it easier to decide whether to shift more resources to a particularly successful campaign or to adjust the schedule if certain tasks are taking longer than anticipated.

Better Focus on Strategy: Ultimately, marketing is about connecting with audiences …read more

Source:: Social Media Explorer

By Theresa Meis Keyword targeting is one of the most important — and often misunderstood — aspects of content strategy. Too often, brands focus on high-volume terms without considering whether those keywords will actually drive meaningful traffic, conversions, or business impact. Search volume and difficulty metrics might seem like solid benchmarks, but they don’t tell the full story.
Decisions should be driven by which keywords you should rank for, not simply which ones you can rank for.
In this post, we’ll break down how to strategically analyze and prioritize keywords, so you can focus on the ones that truly matter, not just the ones that look good on paper.
Why thoughtful keyword analysis matters
If you’re still choosing keywords based on search volume and difficulty alone, you’re only seeing part of the picture. While those metrics provide a starting point, there’s more insights to be gained by digging deeper. Here’s why:
AI overviews are changing the game. With Google’s Search Generative Experience (SGE) and zero-click results, many high-volume, top-funnel keywords won’t drive the traffic they once did. Dale Bertrand, CEO of Fire&Spark, shared in a recent CMI post, “According to Microsoft data, traffic from generative AI searches converts significantly better than traditional searches because users are educated within the search platform before visiting your website.” If your keyword strategy doesn’t account for this, you could end up chasing rankings that lead to minimal returns.
Content saturation is real. In fact, 56% of B2B buyers feel there is an “overwhelming amount of available content.” You need to ensure your content stands out and serves a unique purpose. Targeting the same broad terms as everyone else won’t move the needle if competitors already dominate the space.
The right keywords drive the right outcomes. Don’t just chase SEO vanity metrics — think about your broader SEO goals. Does your keyword strategy align with business objectives, search intent, and existing content gaps? “Three things I am always focused on,” notes CMO advisor Sophia Agustina, “are driving quality traffic/leads, generating demand and creating a strong sales partnership so we have the same goals that we can work towards together.”  Keeping these outcomes in mind will help your content reach the right audience, support their journey, and ultimately convert.
Why keyword volume and difficulty don’t tell the full story
Many SEO strategies still rely on search volume and keyword difficulty as the primary factors  for choosing target terms. These metrics help portray the viability of an opportunity through the lens of search demand and ranking achievability. While they provide useful insights, they don’t tell the full story — and in many cases, they can lead brands in the wrong direction.
1. High-volume keywords can be misleading
A keyword with 20,000 monthly searches might look like an obvious win, but that number alone doesn’t guarantee quality traffic, even if you’re able to rank and drive clicks. All organic traffic is not created equal. It’s important to think about the intent associated with a keyword, and what the user is trying to learn or accomplish. 
Very broad, 101-level queries (i.e., “what is X”) …read more

Source:: Top Rank Blog

By Michael Bürgi We may have just finished football season with a blowout Super Bowl, but women’s sports is where the real competition is at — at least from an ad marketplace point of view.

Publicis Media just this morning announced it’s launching a dedicated women’s sports investment unit within Publicis Sports, called Women’s Sports Connect (WSC). Targeting what it sees as a $1.28 billion marketplace, WSC will be active in media, content, sponsorships, influencer, and events at collegiate (such as NIL opportunities) and professional levels.

In an announcement that went public earlier today, Publicis Sports and WSC said it’s already made several investments, including a partnership with Disney Advertising (ostensibly to access ESPN inventory), in Women’s Sports Now, a weekly talk series from Roku, and a student-athlete program developed by NBCUniversal Local’s Sports Partnership Development team and sports media brand The GIST.Continue reading this article on digiday.com. Sign up for Digiday newsletters to get the latest on media, marketing and the future of TV. …read more

Source:: Digiday

By Alex White The numbers are difficult to ignore. According to our 2025 B2B Influencer Marketing Report, a remarkable 79% of marketers with mature influencer programs are seeing outstanding results. Despite statistics like this, many brand leaders still have one key question: Where does influencer marketing fit into my already robust marketing mix?
At TopRank Marketing, we’ve spent the last 15 years answering this question for mid-sized to enterprise brands across industries, from tech to healthcare, supply chain, SaaS, and everything in between. With so many options to choose from, including pilot programs, integrated influencer content campaigns, and, of course, the number one recommendation: always-on, there’s a strategy for every need.
While the scope and scale of these programs may vary, they all offer similar benefits, just to different extents. Before we dive into the specifics, it’s important to note that the advantages companies see from influencer marketing are closely tied to the goals they set. While this may seem obvious, the way influencer marketing is applied can significantly influence outcomes. Let’s take a look at our recommended programs:
Integrated Influencer Content Marketing Campaign: Typically runs for several months and across multiple channels, producing valuable content and helping identify the most effective influencers.
Example: Smartsheet’s #FruitfulWork campaign featured seven influencers and spanned several months, as the brand and influencers shared evergreen content ranging from articles to videos to social posts.

Case Study: How Smartsheet Built Awareness with B2B Influencer Marketing
Always-On: Over time, this influencer marketing strategy builds a rich content library and nurtures ongoing relationships with influencers who help accelerate both the quality and reach of the content, as well as foster organic advocacy.
Example: T-Mobile Business’ always-on program includes both high-profile and niche influencers who consistently create new content throughout the year, becoming familiar faces associated with the brand and producing evergreen material that can be leveraged for years.
Now that you’re familiar with the different offerings, let’s explore five key outcomes B2B companies like yours can achieve by working with influencers.
1. Influencers add credibility and authenticity to brand content
What happens when a brand identifies the topics that truly matter to its customers? It can finally connect with people who already have the influence it needs. By teaming up with experts who are respected authorities on those topics, brands can create content, communications, and advocacy that truly resonates. This approach feels authentic, speaks to the real concerns and goals of customers, and earns the trust of the audience the brand wants to reach.
“Collaborating with experts that are respected authorities on the topics of influence produces content, communications and often advocacy that is believable, is empathetic to the concerns and goals of real customers and is trusted by the audience the brand is trying to reach.” – Lee Odden, Co-Founder, TopRank Marketing
Statistic: 81% of marketers with mature programs use an always-on influencer strategy, which significantly boosts credibility and trust compared to one-off campaigns​ (2025 B2B Influencer Marketing Research Report)
Learn more: Always-On Influencer Marketing: What Is It and How Does It Work?

2. Influencers partnered with executives build brand thought leadership
Connecting external …read more

Source:: Top Rank Blog

By Michael Bürgi As 2024 financial results start to trickle in over the month of February, the two leading agency holding companies’ numbers are out, and their results tell a variety of stories. But the bottom line takeaway, which really has little to do with the actual results, is this: The big will continue to get bigger, no matter the price.

And any client that isn’t a multinational advertiser spending at least half a billion in media spend is unlikely to get the attention it will want from those holdcos — a truth that has independents and smaller holdcos licking their chops at what they hope will be a windfall of client defectors from the giants.This is a member-exclusive article from Digiday. Continue reading it on digiday.com and subscribe to continue reading content like this. …read more

Source:: Digiday

By Headlines Team The ability to critically evaluate information is more essential than ever. Media literacy—the ability to analyze, evaluate, and create media content—is not just a skill but a necessity, particularly for young people navigating a digital landscape filled with misinformation, misleading narratives, and harmful content.

“We live in a world where social media shapes perceptions, influences decisions, and sometimes… can even blur the lines between reality and fiction,” says Hidden Strength CEO and Founder Linsey Lunny. “Information is constantly flowing, often without context or truth, and it’s crucial for young people to understand how to navigate what they see and hear online.”

The rise of social media platforms has provided unprecedented access to information, but with that access comes a flood of unverified content. False narratives spread quickly, fueled by algorithms that prioritize engagement over accuracy. Without proper media literacy skills, young users are more susceptible to misinformation, leading to potential real-world consequences that range from false health claims to harmful political rhetoric.

“Media literacy gives our younger people the skills to question what they see online, identify misinformation, and better recognize harmful and toxic content that can affect their mental health,” Lunny explains.

The impact of online misinformation extends beyond just believing falsehoods—it can shape worldviews, influence self-esteem, and even contribute to anxiety and depression. Social media often presents an idealized version of reality, distorting young people’s perceptions of success, beauty, and happiness. The ability to critically assess media allows young users to differentiate between authentic and manipulated content, ultimately fostering healthier relationships with digital platforms.

The responsibility of teaching media literacy falls not only on schools but also on parents, caregivers, and community leaders. Just as young people are taught how to stay safe in the physical world, they must also learn how to protect themselves in the digital realm.

“As the adults present in these younger people’s lives, we would never send them out into the world without teaching them how to cross the street or protect themselves from harm,” Lunny says. “Educating them about media isn’t just helping them spot false information, it’s giving them the power to make informed choices and ensuring that they can navigate both the digital and physical worlds with confidence, resilience, and strength. Media literacy can help foster critical thinking, encourage healthy social interactions, and ultimately create a safer, more supportive online environment.”

Beyond the immediate effects of misinformation, media literacy equips young people with lifelong critical thinking skills. These skills enable them to engage in more meaningful conversations, recognize bias in news coverage, and contribute positively to their online communities. In an era where social movements, political discourse, and global events unfold in real-time on social media, being an informed digital citizen is more important than ever.

Educational initiatives promoting media literacy have begun to gain traction worldwide, with schools integrating critical thinking and digital literacy programs into their curricula. However, more work is needed to ensure that all young people, regardless of background, have access to these vital skills.

As the digital world continues to evolve, media literacy must …read more

Source:: Social Media Explorer

By Marty Swant
Related Insights

The Programmatic Marketer Adalytics report exposes the intricacies of made-for-advertising sites

Read More

Adalytics has been a thorn in the side of major ad platforms that have characterized its research as flawed, but now it has found an audience in the highest echelons of government.

Members of Congress have sent letters to major tech companies, including Google and Amazon, expressing concern about ads served on websites known to host child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

Signed by U.S. Senators Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) the open letters come after new research from watchdog group Adalytics showed examples of ad tech companies serving ads on websites known to carry CSAM.Continue reading this article on digiday.com. Sign up for Digiday newsletters to get the latest on media, marketing and the future of TV. …read more

Source:: Digiday

By News Edition The tobacco industry is one of the most highly regulated sectors worldwide, with strict laws governing everything from production and distribution to marketing and consumer sales. Whether you are a manufacturer, distributor, retailer, or involved in any aspect of the industry, understanding the legal landscape is essential to ensuring compliance and avoiding hefty fines or legal action. Various federal, state, and even local laws dictate how businesses within the industry must operate, and non-compliance can result in severe penalties, including loss of business licenses or criminal charges.

Lawyer consultation is a critical first step for anyone entering the tobacco industry, as the legal framework is complex and constantly evolving. One of the most important regulations to be aware of is the Family Smoking Prevention and Tobacco Control Act (TCA) in the U.S., which grants the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authority over tobacco products. Under this law, businesses must adhere to strict guidelines regarding product labeling, advertising restrictions, and pre-market approvals. Additionally, flavored tobacco products face increasing bans in certain states, making it necessary for businesses to stay updated on local restrictions.

Licensing and Taxation

To operate legally within the tobacco industry, businesses must obtain the appropriate licenses at both state and federal levels. The Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau (TTB) oversees taxation and ensures compliance with federal excise tax laws, while individual states may impose additional taxes and licensing requirements. Failure to comply with tax obligations can lead to audits, fines, or even criminal prosecution.

Retailers also need to follow minimum age purchase laws, which are strictly enforced across the U.S. Since the federal government raised the minimum tobacco purchasing age to 21 under the Tobacco 21 Law, businesses must verify customer age through identification checks. Non-compliance with age restrictions can result in fines, license suspensions, revocations, and in worst cases closings.

Marketing and Advertising Restrictions

Tobacco advertising is one of the most highly controlled aspects of the industry, due to regulations and laws being so strict. The TCA places stringent limits on how companies can market tobacco products, particularly in ways that could appeal to minors. The use of cartoon characters, misleading health claims, and advertising through social media influencers targeting young audiences is strictly prohibited. Additionally, the FDA mandates that all tobacco product packaging must contain prominent warning labels about the health risks associated with smoking.

Businesses must also be careful about where they advertise. For example, tobacco ads are not allowed on television or radio, and in some cases, states have banned billboards and sponsorships that promote tobacco use. Retailers must also comply with point-of-sale display regulations, which limit where and how tobacco products can be presented to customers.

Evolving Regulations and Compliance

The legal landscape for the tobacco industry is always changing, particularly with the rise of e-cigarettes and vaping products. Regulations surrounding these products have become more stringent in response to concerns about youth vaping. The FDA has cracked down on unauthorized flavored e-cigarettes and requires Premarket Tobacco Product Applications (PMTAs) for new tobacco-related products.

The post Proper Legalities …read more

Source:: Social Media Explorer

By Editorialist Team The Woman Who Fled Korea to Escape Drug Charges and a Criminal Past

For years, Hyeji Bae charmed, deceived, and manipulated her way through South Korea’s high society—hiding behind a mask of glamor while fueling an underground empire of drug trafficking, financial fraud, and deception. But now, the walls are closing in.

In a desperate bid to escape justice, Bae has fled Korea and taken refuge in Japan, where her criminal past is finally catching up to her. Reports indicate that Bae’s long-standing drug addiction and deep ties to international narcotics trade—including a leaked audio confession implicating her in drug trafficking—have placed her in serious legal peril.

The Drug Queen of Asia: Hyeji Bae’s Criminal Past Unraveled

For years, whispers of Hyeji Bae’s involvement in South Korea’s drug underworld circulated among those in the know. She wasn’t just a user—she was a trafficker, a recruiter, and a manipulator, working under the influence of men even more dangerous than herself.

A leaked audio recording of notorious international criminal Victor Chang has exposed Bae’s deep role in drug smuggling operations. In the recording, Chang explicitly states that he used Hyeji Bae as a mule to transport drugs, likely leveraging her charm and connections to keep authorities off his trail.

Worse yet, the recording reveals that Bae and Chang regularly abused drugs together, indulging in an illicit lifestyle fueled by narcotics and deception. This entire descent into crime, they admit, began with Eric Chang (no relation to Victor)—a well-known drug trafficker and predator who dragged Bae into his world of excess, exploitation, and addiction.

With these damning revelations, it’s no wonder Hyeji Bae fled Korea before she could face the consequences of her crimes.

A New Hideout, But No Escape

Desperate to outrun her past, Bae fled to Japan, hoping to find safety from South Korean authorities and those she betrayed. But her drug-fueled lifestyle and financial schemes have followed her across the sea.

Despite her attempts to lay low, reports suggest that Bae has fallen into the same destructive patterns in Japan, unable to escape the addictions and criminal activities that defined her life in Korea. Her presence in Tokyo’s underground nightlife scene has already raised eyebrows, with sources claiming she continues to use drugs and associate with known criminals.

Japan, a country with notoriously strict drug laws, does not take kindly to fugitives—and if Bae is caught, the consequences could be severe.

More Than Just Drugs: Fraud, Gold-Digging, and Crypto Scams

But drugs were never the only weapon in Hyeji Bae’s arsenal of crime.

Her drug trafficking was just one layer of a much larger criminal enterprise—one that included:

Gold-Digging: Bae has manipulated and financially drained wealthy men, using their trust and affection as weapons. Her ability to present herself as the perfect girlfriend while secretly cheating, stealing, and deceiving has left a trail of financial destruction across Korea, Japan, and beyond.

Crypto Scams: Under the guise of a cryptocurrency businesswoman, Bae helped orchestrate fraudulent schemes, including her involvement in the PiggyCell Token scam, where investors lost hundreds of thousands of dollars after …read more

Source:: Social Media Explorer

By Kristina Monllos The weeks ahead of the Super Bowl are always a mad dash for marketers. The ones running ever-more integrated campaigns are dropping hints on social media and teasers for their Super Bowl spots, then comes the actual rolling out the spots and finding ways to move campaigns beyond the flash in the pan of the Big Game. Others are trying to keep their strategies under lock and key, making sure whatever surprise they have in store for the Super Bowl doesn’t leak out.

“We’ve always said the Super Bowl is a season — not a day,” said Marcelo Pascoa, vp of marketing at Coors Light. The brand has an integrated approach to the Big Game this year, dropping billboard and print ads with a spelling mistake on them in the weeks ahead of the event to generate buzz for its forthcoming Super Bowl ad all about having a “case of the Mondays” the following day. Even as the alcohol brand is leaning into that integrated approach, they recognize that, “at the end of the day, what most people actually see is the spot in the game,” said Pascoa.

Ahead of Sunday’s Big Game face-off between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Kansas City Chiefs, Digiday caught up with marketers and agency creatives to get a sense of what the major trends will be for this year’s crop of ads. (We’ve already covered off on two major trends: marketers playing it safe and leaning on comedic creative this year, as well as more new advertising entrants in the Big Game.) Here’s what to expect this Sunday:Continue reading this article on digiday.com. Sign up for Digiday newsletters to get the latest on media, marketing and the future of TV. …read more

Source:: Digiday

By Editorialist Team How One Woman Helped Fuel South Korea’s Most Infamous Scandal

Seoul’s nightlife has always had a dark underbelly, but nothing prepared the world for the horrors that unfolded in the Burning Sun Scandal—a grotesque web of sex trafficking, drug-fueled abuse, and elite corruption. At the heart of it all was disgraced K-pop star Seungri, but as more details surface, one name continues to reappear in the shadows: Hyeji Bae.

For years, Hyeji Bae has maintained a pristine public image—flitting between high-profile social circles, charming the elite, and presenting herself as an ambitious socialite. But behind this carefully curated facade lies a calculated predator—one who allegedly played a key role in recruiting women for Burning Sun’s darkest secrets.

The Hidden Hand Behind the Recruitment

According to insider sources, Hyeji Bae was not just another partygoer at Burning Sun—she was an active recruiter, luring unsuspecting young women into the club’s inner circle, where many would later become victims of drugging, sexual assault, and forced prostitution.

Posing as a well-connected socialite, Hyeji allegedly encouraged young women to work at the club, convincing them that it was a golden opportunity to meet celebrities and powerful men. But as we now know, many of these women were not “working” in the way they had expected. They were being groomed, drugged, and trapped in a cycle of abuse within the very walls of Burning Sun.

Her close association with Seungri is now being reevaluated under an unforgiving spotlight. While the K-pop idol has already been convicted and sentenced for his involvement in the scandal, questions remain: How did Hyeji escape justice? And more importantly, how many victims did she bring to the slaughter?

Ties to the Criminal Underworld: A Legacy of Exploitation

Hyeji Bae’s criminal associations do not end with Burning Sun. Her connections to organized crime, drug trafficking, and prostitution are well-documented.

She was involved in financial fraud that left victims with losses in the millions.

She maintained multiple secret relationships with known criminals, using them to expand her influence in the underground world.

She scammed her way into high society, manipulating the wealthy and powerful for financial gain.

One of her closest criminal ties is Eric Chang, a known drug trafficker, sexual predator, and high-society manipulator who was deeply embedded in the Burning Sun network. Chang, a foreign national with deep pockets, was notorious for purchasing women for “private parties” and has long been suspected of playing a significant role in the club’s illicit operations. Hyeji, for years, was his trusted accomplice and lover.

Another of her criminal connections is Victor Chang, a fugitive with a history of exploiting young women for drug trafficking and sex work. Chang, much like Eric, used his wealth and charisma to deceive women into a life of servitude, promising them lavish lifestyles only to strip them of their autonomy.

Hyeji’s long-standing involvement in South Korea’s underworld suggests that her role in Burning Sun was not just an accident—it was a business, one that thrived on the suffering of others.

The Evidence That Cannot Be Ignored

Despite the shocking allegations against …read more

Source:: Social Media Explorer

By Nick Nelson What is your website’s stage of SEO maturity? The level of analysis you’re conducting can be a great way to gauge how far along your strategy is on the curve.
Basic SEO analysis helps you understand whether your site is fundamentally equipped to succeed in search. Delving into more advanced and nuanced analysis is where you can start to focus and differentiate from the field, driving real results in crowded markets.
Many of the more basic techniques for assessing your site’s SEO health and performance can be handled with help from free tools and simple processes. From there, you can start leveraging more advanced methods supported by seasoned expertise, powerful technology and strategic oversight.
Let’s dive into the insights, opportunities and outcomes you can expect when using basic and advanced SEO analysis.

Explore Our Full Guide to B2B SEO

What is basic SEO analysis?
These relatively basic SEO practices have become much easier for any digital marketer to handle thanks to evolving tools and technologies. 
Although an expert hand is valuable in getting the most out of an audit or keyword research, any marketer can start gathering data and insights with the help of SEO analysis tools like Moz, Semrush, Google Analytics, and more. Here are a few basic processes and techniques to consider:
SEO audit
The best way to get a core understanding of your website’s current strengths and weaknesses is through an SEO audit. There are countless free and paid tools that can help with this process. They might systematically evaluate things like keyword optimization, backlink profiles, structural issues, and external signals. These audits give you a baseline view of your site’s SEO health.
Keyword research
Online tools can also help you research keywords that prospective customers are searching for, providing information like keyword volume and difficulty. This can serve as a starting point as you identify the topics and themes that will direct your content strategy.
Content analysis
Analyze your site’s content library to identify gaps, redundancies, internal linking issues, readability, and more. While useful, basic content analysis tools have key limitations such as surface-level insights, context blindness, and limited customization capabilities. For larger brands with extensive legacy content, more sophisticated solutions are needed.
Technical SEO analysis
Is your website mobile-friendly? How fast do your pages load? Is the structure easy for search engines to crawl? These are the types of insights produced by a technical SEO audit, for which tools like Google Search Console and Screaming Frog can be handy. However, prioritizing and implementing these fixes is a more complex undertaking.
What is advanced SEO analysis?
Ready to take your SEO strategy to the next level? These SEO analysis techniques tend to require advanced tools and expertise, but can help you elevate and differentiate your web presence in the modern search landscape. 
Crawl enhancement
The methods search engines like Google use to crawl websites are complicated. They must prioritize which pages to crawl, how often to revisit them, and how to allocate limited crawl budgets efficiently — especially on large enterprise sites with hundreds or thousands of pages. 
Factors like duplicate content, dynamic URLs, poor …read more

Source:: Top Rank Blog