In this “Headlines” episode of the Social Complex Podcast, hosts Hilary Applegate and Jacqueline Keidel Martinez discuss the evolving landscape of social media and technology in 2025. They reflect on the recent TikTok ban, its political implications, and the impact on content creators. The conversation shifts to the emergence of DeepSeek, a Chinese AI competitor, and the potential national security concerns it raises. Finally, they explore the current state of DEI initiatives in corporations, examining the implications of funding cuts and the importance of integrating diversity into company culture.

To connect with Jacqueline, click here. 

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Links referenced in this episode: 

• Trump says Microsoft is in talks to acquire TikTok
• Trump's 75-day extension of TikTok ban falls into 'gray area,' experts say. What to know

Chapters

• 00:00 Welcome to 2025: Reflections and Expectations
• 02:10 The TikTok Ban: Political Performances and Business Implications
• 10:27 DeepSeek: The New AI Frontier and National Security Concerns
• 16:14 DEI Initiatives: A Shift in Corporate Values and Responsibilities

Takeaways

• The TikTok ban felt more political than technological.
• Content creators are significantly impacted by social media instability.
• Diversification of platforms is crucial for creators' livelihoods.
• DeepSeek poses a competitive threat to US AI technologies.
• National security concerns are paramount in tech discussions.
• DEI initiatives are being cut, reflecting shifting corporate values.
• Companies must integrate DEI into their core values, not treat it as an add-on.
• The implications of AI technology are vast and complex.
• Truth and authenticity are increasingly challenged in the digital age.
• Diversity of thought enhances problem-solving and innovation.

When you think of social media, a few platforms likely come to mind—TikTok, Snapchat, Facebook, Twitter—the list goes on. But each of these platforms operates separately, with individual logins, profiles, content, and communities. Now, imagine a new era of social interaction where all your interests, followers, and content exist in one unified world—not controlled by a single entity, but by a collective. That’s the vision of the Fediverse. If you’re unfamiliar with what the Fediverse is or why it matters, this episode is a must-listen.

Joining us today is Marci McCue, a seasoned content, communications, and marketing professional with over 20 years of experience. As a founding team member and Head of Marketing at Flipboard, Marci has played a pivotal role in shaping the brand since its launch in 2010. She has led the company’s communications strategy, helping Flipboard become a globally recognized platform. Now, as Flipboard embraces the Fediverse, Marci is defining the next evolution of the company and its users' experiences.

In this discussion, we explore what the Fediverse could mean for the future of social media, the challenges and opportunities it presents for brands, and how platforms like Flipboard are adapting. We also touch on discoverability, content moderation, and the shifting landscape of marketing in a more community-driven digital world. Tune in for an insightful conversation on what’s next in social media.

To connect with Marci, click here. 

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Fediverse and Social Media Evolution
• 02:31 Understanding the Fediverse: A Decentralized Network
• 10:02 The Impact of the Fediverse on Brands
• 14:20 Navigating Challenges: TikTok and Brand Safety
• 20:08 Community and Content Moderation in the Fediverse
• 26:44 Discoverability and Engagement Strategies
• 30:28 Content Moderation and Brand Safety
• 35:05 Creative Marketing Opportunities in the Fediverse
• 37:47 Measuring Success in the Fediverse
• 44:49 The Future of Brands in the Fediverse

Takeaways

• The Fediverse represents a new era of social interaction.
• Brands will have direct relationships with their audience.
• Decentralization allows brands to take back control.
• Content moderation is crucial in the Fediverse.
• Discoverability will rely on community-driven strategies.
• Brands can migrate their followers across platforms.
• The future of marketing will focus on community engagement.
• Creative marketing opportunities will emerge in the Fediverse.
• Success metrics will evolve in decentralized networks.
• The integration of social and commerce will redefine brand interactions.

In this 'Headlines' episode of the Social Complex Podcast, Hillary Applegate and Jacqueline Keidel Martinez dive into the multifaceted impact of social media on brands and marketing strategies. They explore the potential TikTok ban in the U.S. and its implications for marketers, analyze recent industry layoffs and mergers, and discuss the mixed reception of this year’s Spotify Wrapped—especially in light of AI's growing influence on content creation and user experience.

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

To connect with Jacqueline, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Links referenced in this episode: 

• Edelman cuts 5% of global workforce amid restructuring
• Why some Spotify users were let down by this year’s Wrapped: ‘Definitely missing something’
• Omnicom to Acquire Interpublic Group to Create Premier Marketing and Sales Company

Takeaways:

• TikTok's potential ban raises concerns for marketers.
• Brands should prepare for platform changes proactively.
• Layoffs in major agencies indicate a shift in the industry.
• Mergers may lead to redundancies and a focus on corporate communications.
• Audience fragmentation is impacting traditional media outlets.
• Independent journalism is on the rise with niche platforms.
• AI's role in marketing is evolving, with mixed results.
• Spotify Wrapped's reception highlights the importance of creativity.
• Companies must balance AI efficiency with human creativity.
• The perception of AI in marketing will continue to evolve.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Social Media's Impact
• 02:06 The TikTok Ban and Its Implications
• 09:14 Industry Layoffs and Mergers
• 18:30 Spotify Wrapped: AI's Role and User Experience

When we talk about artificial intelligence, there’s no denying the many advantages it brings to the table. But, like anything great, there’s also a dark side to the moon. AI isn’t without its challenges—and that’s to be expected, especially given how rapidly the technology is evolving. So, what are the societal implications of this growth? Where do we stand with current technological advancements and the regulations either in place or under consideration? And how can we work toward a healthy, balanced relationship with AI—if that’s even possible?

Joining me today is Dr. Alex Hanna, Director of Research at the Distributed AI Research Institute (DAIR). In addition to her work on AI, Dr. Hanna studies social movements, with a focus on the dynamics of anti-racist campus protests in the U.S. and Canada. In today’s episode, we dive into the societal implications of AI—some you may not have even considered—and explore how people are feeling about it. Are users still excited about AI-powered tools, or is sentiment starting to shift? We’re unpacking all of that and more on the podcast

To connect with Dr. Alex Hanna, click here. 

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Takeaways

• The focus on existential risk is a huge distraction.
• AI is not a single entity; it encompasses various technologies.
• Generative AI has significant societal implications.
• The harms of AI include biases and discriminatory practices.
• AI's energy consumption is a critical concern.
• Regulation often comes after harm has occurred.
• Collective action is essential for addressing AI's challenges.
• Critical thinking is necessary for consumers to navigate AI.
• The labor market is being impacted by AI technologies.
• The future of AI requires accountability and ethical considerations.

Chapters

• 00:00 The Complexities of AI and Society
• 09:01 Understanding AI: Categories and Implications
• 18:18 The Distraction of Existential Risks
• 23:31 The Role of Regulation and Collective Action
• 37:34 The Future of AI: Critical Thinking and Accountability

When you think of selling, you may think of HSN or QVC, but there's a new way of selling that is emerging in the form of social media selling on TikTok. Not only does TikTok allow an expansive audience reach, through its inherent platform, but it also brings forward a new way to shop through TikTok Shop by integrating both access to a wide array of audiences and easy to sell and buy products through TikTok Shop. There's an emerging way for consumers and brands to interact when it comes to making purchases. So how does that all happen? And what does the production look like compared to a traditional TV show like UBC? 

Today we are talking all about it with Georgina Cohen from JGS Live. Georgina is the marketing and live executive at JGS Live where she oversees and coordinates behind the scenes operations and production. With a strong focus on delivering seamless and engaging live stream experiences, Georgina collaborates closely with a wide range of brands, tailoring strategies to meet each brand's unique needs. Her role involves meticulous scheduling, detailed planning, and hands-on management of each production. 

Today we're talking all about what goes into a live stream to make it impactful, the behind the scenes planning and management of a production while they are live, some of the considerations for brands to make if they are wanting to get into the live stream scene and why TikTok is the ideal platform for brands to not just access Gen Z but older generations as well. 

To connect with Georgina, click here or here. 

Learn more about JGS Live, here.

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Takeaways

• TikTok Shop provides access to a wide range of brands.
• Live streaming on TikTok is a new way to sell products.
• Authenticity is key in engaging with TikTok audiences.
• Brands are increasingly recognizing TikTok's potential for growth.
• The shopping experience on TikTok is more personal and interactive.
• Buyers on TikTok often make impulse purchases.
• TikTok's search functionality is user-friendly and effective.
• Maximizing live stream impact requires strategic planning.
• Post-production analysis is crucial for future success.
• Gamification enhances viewer engagement and participation.

Chapters

• 00:00 The Rise of TikTok Shop
• 02:54 Behind the Scenes of Live Streaming
• 06:14 Engagement and Authenticity in TikTok Live
• 09:06 The Evolution of Brands on TikTok
• 12:53 The Unique Shopping Experience on TikTok
• 15:11 Understanding Buyer Behavior on TikTok
• 17:00 Search Functionality and User Experience
• 19:50 Maximizing Live Stream Impact
• 22:44 Post-Production Strategies
• 25:00 Gamification and Viewer Engagement
• 28:18 Generational Shifts in TikTok Shopping
• 30:40 Balancing Production Quality and Authenticity
• 36:51 Advice for Brands Entering TikTok Shop

In this Headlines episode of the Social Complex Podcast, Hilary Applegate and Jacqueline Keidel Martinez discuss the complex implications of social media on brands and individuals. They explore the recent advertising lawsuit involving X (formerly Twitter) and its impact on brand safety, the launch of Instagram's teen profiles aimed at protecting young users, and the challenges faced by millennials as they navigate caregiving responsibilities for both children and aging parents. The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of social media and its effects on marketing strategies, brand values, and personal well-being.

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Links referenced in this episode: 

X Drops Advertising Lawsuit Against Unilever, But Not Mars, CVS or Ørsted

Instagram Launching Teen Profiles... on LinkedIn

Millennials Enter The Sandwich Era - Flex Work

Takeaways:

• Corporations in the U.S. are treated as people, allowing for boycotts.
• Brand marketers must consider legal implications of budget allocations.
• Political discussions can complicate brand safety and reputation.
• Instagram's teen profiles aim to provide safety but may not be foolproof.
• Parents play a crucial role in guiding teens' social media use.
• Millennials are increasingly responsible for both children and aging parents.
• The financial burden on millennials is exacerbated by economic factors.
• Remote work policies must consider the caregiving responsibilities of employees.
• Social media can have profound effects on mental well-being.
• Brands need to prioritize their values while navigating complex social issues.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Social Media's Impact
• 01:29 X's Advertising Lawsuit and Brand Implications
• 07:34 Instagram's Teen Profiles: Safety or Supervision?
• 19:31 Millennials in the Sandwich Generation: Balancing Caregiving and Work

The question of whether TikTok will be around tomorrow has been swirling in the news cycle since before 2020—it’s been a topic for a long time. So, what happens if TikTok is banned tomorrow? How can brands protect themselves and the investments they’ve made in content on the platform?

Joining us today to tackle these questions is Sam Kaufman. Sam is a social media marketing specialist and the Chief Creative Officer at both TikTalk Marketing Agency and DigiHear. With a passion for creating engaging, trend-driven content, Sam has grown a TikTok following of over 1.2 million followers. He leads creative teams in developing innovative social campaigns across platforms for various brands, combining creativity with data-driven insights to help brands connect with their audiences and achieve meaningful results in today’s fast-paced digital world.

In today’s conversation, we dive into the world of TikTok marketing—discussing whether the platform will endure, how brands can safeguard their content investments, when it makes sense to cross-post on other platforms, and when it doesn’t. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in maximizing their TikTok marketing strategy.

To connect with Sam, click here.

Learn more about DigiHear Marketing here.

Learn more about the TikTalk Marketing Agency here.

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Takeaways

• TikTok serves as a testing ground for brands.
• Creativity is key in TikTok marketing.
• Brands can recycle content across platforms.
• Short-form video is dominating social media.
• Authenticity resonates more with audiences.
• Performance metrics are crucial for success.
• The TikTok ban is a long-standing issue.
• Brands should diversify their social media presence.
• Paid advertising on TikTok can yield better results.
• The future of marketing will heavily involve video.

Chapters

• 00:00 Exploring TikTok as a Marketing Playground
• 02:10 The Journey into TikTok Marketing
• 05:35 Overcoming Hesitancy in TikTok Marketing
• 11:24 Common Misconceptions about TikTok
• 15:31 Brands Thriving on TikTok
• 16:27 Navigating Performance Metrics on TikTok
• 18:54 The TikTok Ban: Current Status and Implications
• 21:20 Future-Proofing Your Brand on TikTok
• 25:10 Leveraging Paid Advertising on TikTok
• 27:04 The Future of Short-Form Video Marketing

If you log on to any social media platform, it's hard not to come across some kind of mental health conversation. Whether it’s a positivity mantra, a buzzworthy term from a therapy session, or someone accusing another of gaslighting, therapy talk is everywhere online. On the positive side, it's great that mental health is finally getting the attention, understanding, and compassion it deserves. On the flip side, we're seeing a trend of unqualified individuals using therapeutic language to boost engagement on their platforms without considering whether their content is appropriate for their audience.

So, what are the implications of mental health professionals being online, sharing content, and joining the conversation? How can we ensure we continue trending positively toward mental health awareness and support without reducing it to just another tool for engagement?

Enter Gin Lalli. Gin is a solution-focused therapist, specializing in anxiety and stress. She is the author of the book ‘How to Empty Your Stress Bucket’ and host of the podcast ‘Stress Bucket Solutions’. She's here to share her insights on how the internet is currently navigating mental health. This conversation explores the dangers of misinformation and self-diagnosis in the mental health space, while emphasizing the importance of seeking reliable information and making therapists visible and accessible online. We also dive into the rise of pop psychology on the internet and discuss ways for individuals to build resilience and practice self-care, helping them feel less decision fatigue online and more confident in their day-to-day lives.

To learn more about Gin, click here.

To connect with Gin, click here.

Listen to Gin’s podcast, here.  

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Takeaways

• Mental health awareness has become mainstream, but it can lead to misinformation.
• Pop psychology often oversimplifies complex mental health issues.
• Resilience varies greatly among individuals, influenced by both nature and nurture.
• Choice overload can hinder our ability to find purpose and make decisions.
• Social media can negatively impact confidence by bombarding users with opinions.
• Echo chambers on social media can reinforce misinformation and bias.
• Therapists need to be more visible online to provide accurate information.
• Therapy should be normalized as part of mental wellness, not just for crises.
• Self-diagnosis can lead to mislabeling and misunderstanding of mental health conditions.
• Finding the right therapist is crucial for effective therapy.

Chapters

• 00:00 The Rise of Mental Health Awareness
• 02:01 Navigating Mental Health Online
• 07:08 Understanding Resilience and Individual Differences
• 11:20 The Impact of Choice Overload on Purpose
• 15:56 Social Media's Role in Confidence and Misinformation
• 20:15 The Dangers of Echo Chambers
• 23:53 Finding Balance in Social Media Use
• 30:02 The State of Pop Psychology
• 36:36 Therapy as a Normal Part of Life
• 39:47 Therapists' Visibility in the Digital Age

Welcome to a special edition of The Social Complex Podcast! In this inaugural "Headlines" episode, host Hillary teams up with Digital HQ’s President and Chief Communications Officer Jacqueline Keidel Martinez, for a fresh monthly series. Together, they dive into trending topics in marketing, communications, and brand strategy, offering insights on how these areas intertwine and amplify for business success. Tune in for real talk on how to bring these disciplines together without ego, while elevating the way we work. Whether you're a marketing maven or a communications pro, this episode offers a modern perspective on how working together delivers stronger results.

Headlines discussed in todays episode: 

RTO Mandates: 

• https://www.usatoday.com/money/blueprint/business/hr-payroll/remote-work-statistics/
• https://fortune.com/2024/09/24/amazon-employee-survey-rto-5-day-mandate-andy-jassy/

Executive Visibility: 

• https://www.refinelabs.com/news/personal-linkedin-engagement-vs-company-page

To connect with Jacqueline, click here. 

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

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Takeaways

• The return to office mandates are becoming a widespread trend among companies.
• Many employees hired remotely are now facing pressure to return to the office.
• Data shows that a significant percentage of workers are more productive at home.
• Companies can save millions by allowing remote work.
• Return to office mandates may disproportionately affect women in the workforce.
• Executive visibility is becoming increasingly important for brand trust.
• Personal connections with company leaders enhance consumer loyalty.
• The future of work will likely involve more flexible and hybrid arrangements.
• Investing in employee visibility can improve recruitment efforts.
• The conversation around workplace flexibility is ongoing and evolving.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to the Social Complex Podcast
• 01:27 The Intersection of Marketing and Communications
• 02:20 Return to Office Mandates: A New Trend
• 10:32 The Future of Work: Remote vs. In-Office
• 15:12 The Impact of Return to Office on Women
• 25:32 The Shift from Brands to Individuals on LinkedIn

When you think of social media, you may not immediately consider just how wrong things can go. But like any other platform, marketing avenue, or communication tool, there are always inherent risks when it comes to using, sharing content, or promoting on social media. While the law has historically lagged behind technology, it's catching up fast, and there's a lot of compliance that needs to be understood and managed when it comes to social media.

For today's conversation, we have none other than Ethan Wall, founder and president of The Social Media Law Firm, to discuss the evolution of social media law and the need for legal guidelines in the industry. Ethan emphasizes the importance of proactive compliance, especially in areas like sweepstakes and giveaways. He also discusses the legal implications surrounding deep fakes in AI-generated content and copyright issues related to artificial intelligence.

The evolution of social media law has led to the development of various guidelines and regulations for businesses and creators, but our best bet for protecting our organizations and content is to stay informed about what's coming next. In this conversation, Ethan breaks down where our focus should be.

To learn more about The Social Media Law Firm, click here. 

To connect with Ethan, click here or here. 

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

When you hear 'virtual world,' what comes to mind? Headsets? The metaverse? Gaming? If any of those pop into your head, I'm here with a special guest to shift your perspective on what a virtual world is and what it could be.

Daniel Liebeskind is the founder and CEO of Topia, a platform-as-a-service technology for real-time social interaction and spatial video chat within customizable virtual worlds. Their customers span various industries, including education, game studios, financial services, and software. These enterprises use Topia to help employees feel more connected as a community. From Wall Street to Silicon Valley, Daniel's mission is to foster human connection through technology. Having built offline communities throughout his life, he became an entrepreneur to create software that helps people manage their personal communities. As a product creator and engineer, Daniel has coded nearly 30 applications over the last six years, including community platforms, contact managers, Slackbots, real estate systems, trading platforms, knowledge ecosystems, and games for browser, VR, and mobile.

In today’s conversation, Daniel and I explore virtual worlds and online community-building, especially as we head toward Web3, the metaverse, and whatever else that digital world might become. One crucial topic Daniel addresses is child safety. When we think about open worlds, social media platforms, and the current state of the internet, what are the implications for child safety? How are apps taking steps in the right direction to prioritize this issue when building these communities? Tune in to learn more.

To connect with Daniel, click here. 

To learn more about Topia, click here. 

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

In this episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes at Digital HQ, the marketing agency behind the podcast. We're a modern agency that's backed by a network of contractors and one of those contractors was invited to come on the podcast today. Matthew Wolfe is a marketing creative with an engineer's logic. He holds two engineering degrees and started his career at Ford Motor Company before making the switch to marketing. After Ford, he worked with several early stage startups, building inbound growth strategies from the ground up. Matthew is currently a freelance marketing consultant specializing in demand capture and generation programs.

Not only does Matthew bring a keen sense of curiosity to the world of paid media, but he also excels in strategic thinking and seamlessly integrates with our creative team. Matthew’s unique background and innovative approach have made him a great asset on our projects, and I knew his insights would be something worth sharing with the world. Tune in to learn from his experience and discover how he’s navigating the ever-evolving digital landscape. 

To connect with Matthew, click here.

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Social media has added a complex new layer to how we interact and learn online. It has really offered the first opportunity for users to directly influence the outcome on the platform in front of them. So, what kind of implications does that have for kids?

Today, I am joined by Kris Perry, Executive Director of Children and Screens. Kris most recently served as Senior Advisor to Governor Gavin Newsom of California and Deputy Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency, where she led the development of the California Master Plan for Early Learning and Care and expanded access to high-quality early childhood programs. Perry was also instrumental in restoring marriage equality to California following the landmark 2013 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Hollingsworth v. Perry, which she wrote about in her book, Love on Trial.

In our conversation, Kris and I delve into the research she is overseeing at Children and Screens, the mission of the Institute, and the implications of digital and social media on children's development.

To connect with Kris, click here.

Learn more about Children and Screens here. 

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

It's easy to crank out great content when you have an unlimited budget behind you. But what about nonprofits who are known for historically needing to create really impactful stories on very lean budgets and resources? Today, we are chatting with someone who knows a little bit about that and is an expert when it comes to supporting nonprofit marketing strategies, Daniel Francavilla. 

Daniel is a marketing advisor, strategist, founder and mentor making a positive impact. He is a Certified Brand Strategist, college educator, member of the Canadian Marketing Association and a recipient of a 40 Under 40 Award. After graduating from OCAD University, Daniel founded Now Creative Group in 2013, later acquired by creative performance agency King Street Media in 2021, where he is a partner. The agency also launched a content platform and studio called CreatorClub in 2022. As an advocate for social good Daniel continues to run ACCESS, a nonprofit he founded as a student in 2006, which provides funding and mentorship for youth-led initiatives. His latest venture, The Good Growth Company, provides training for social good organizations to upskill their teams and scale their mission.

In today's episode, we are talking about the modern makeup of a marketing team that is supporting lean budgets, primarily around nonprofits. We talk about how nonprofits can utilize the stories within their organization and turn it into valuable content that is bound to drive visibility for their cause and support from the communities around them. We get into some of the common misconceptions as well as common hurdles that these organizations face and Daniel provides his best recommendations on how to handle the curve. He comes with a wealth of knowledge and whether you are in a nonprofit or you are on a marketing team that has had a budget cut in recent years, there's a lot to be learned from this episode. 

Learn more about Daniel, here.

To connect with Daniel, click here.  

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Ever wondered who really owns that last post you made on social media? Is it yours, or does the platform hold the rights? And what happens when influencers and content creators post on your behalf? The world of content ownership is more complex than ever, especially with the rise of AI in the marketing industry. To help us navigate these murky waters, we're joined by Sharon Toerek, Founder and CEO of Toerek Law, a national law firm specializing in intellectual property and marketing law for agencies and their clients.

Sharon is the Founder and CEO of Toerek Law (doing business in the marketing world as Legal + Creative), a national law firm focused on intellectual property and marketing law for marketing agencies and their clients. Sharon is a former President of AAF in Cleveland, Ohio and a member of the 4A’s Legal Consultant Panel. She’s a frequent conference speaker on marketing legal issues at industry events like INBOUND, Content Marketing World, Agency Management Institute and the Marketing Artificial Intelligence Institute, as well as to private agency networks including TAAN, Magnet, and Worldwide Partners.

In this episode, Sharon unpacks the legal intricacies of modern case law surrounding AI-generated content, IP ownership, and the brand's rights to content shared on public platforms. Whether you're a marketer, content creator, or just curious about the future of digital ownership, you’ll walk away with valuable insights from this fascinating discussion.

Tune in and get ready to rethink what you thought you knew about content ownership in today's marketing landscape. 

To connect with Sharon, click here.

Check out Sharon’s agency, here.  

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Today's guest is Jeff Barrett, a modern PR professional who is thinking beyond the box of traditional PR and how it integrates into the content creator economy, media award shows, breaking through the attention economy, and how brand storytelling is happening on a grand scale. Jeff is a Shorty Award-winning content creator, Business Insider's #1 Ad Executive, and one of the Top 10 Most Sought After Chief Evangelists. He works with Adobe, FIS, Experian, and more on communications and creator strategy, and hosts the podcast *It's No Fluke* for the Shorty Awards, where he currently serves as Chief Evangelist.

In our conversation today, we are talking all about moving away from transactional to a relational approach with creators, how brands can leverage their profile to amplify a creator's audience, and how to build these long-term relationships with content creators for brands. I am sure you are going to learn a ton, as I did as well.

To connect with Jeff, click here.

Check out Jeff’s podcast, here.

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Today's episode is all about the metaverse—what it is, what it isn't, and what it could become. When people hear 'metaverse' in everyday conversation, they might think of Meta with Facebook. Is it going to be a social platform? Or is it going to be something entirely different?

In this episode, we're talking with Eugene Capon, the creative visionary and co-founder of Studio Capon, a trailblazer in the metaverse creative space. From making waves with his VR talk show, *Glitched*, to authoring a children's book on the metaverse, Eugene's insights are limitless. His expertise in XR and digital media has earned him partnerships with some of the biggest brands in the industry, including Microsoft, AltspaceVR, Skype, and High Fidelity.

We'll dive into the potential of the metaverse, its integration into modern society, and the challenges it may bring, including its impact on mental health. Just as the internet revolutionized our world, the metaverse is poised for another seismic shift. Join us as we unpack what this means for all of us and what we should expect as we stand on the brink of this digital frontier.

Learn more about Eugene here.

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Welcome to another engaging episode of the Social Complex Podcast! Today, we delve into the intricate world of alcohol marketing and advertising. From the echoes of prohibition to modern-day regulations, the landscape has evolved significantly, especially with emerging markets like cannabis making their mark.

Join us as we unravel these complexities with our guest, Karen Locke, founder of High Proof Creative. Since 2018, Karen has championed the craft beverage industry with her award-winning branding and marketing agency. Her initiative, Women in Distilling, shines a spotlight on underrepresented voices in the distilling world.

Karen shares her wealth of experience, discussing the nuances of marketing in the spirits category and navigating the intricate balance of creativity and compliance. With nearly a decade in marketing and contributions to publications like GQ and Bon Appetit, Karen offers invaluable insights into what marketers should know when crafting alcohol brands.

Whether you're a marketer, enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of alcoholic beverage marketing, this episode promises a deep dive into what lies ahead. Tune in now to explore the evolving trends and strategies shaping the industry!

To learn more about High Proof Creative, click here.

To connect with Karen, click here or here. 

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.

Welcome to the third season of The Social Complex Podcast, where we delve into the ever-evolving world and complexities of social media. We're kicking off this season with an exciting announcement about Digital HQ, the modern agency that supports this podcast.

In this premiere episode, Hillary Applegate sits down with Jacqueline Keidel Martinez, a seasoned PR pro, to unpack the transformation of earned media in the digital age. Gone are the days when public relations was merely about shipping products and getting reviews. Today, it's a sophisticated interplay of digital metrics, trending topics, and seamless integration between paid and earned media.

Key Topics Covered:

- Big announcement at Digital HQ

- Evolution of Earned Media: Understanding how the traditional approach of shipping products for reviews has evolved into a complex strategy where digital metrics and trending stories play crucial roles.

- Digital Metrics in Newsrooms: Discover how modern newsrooms utilize digital metrics to gauge success and determine the stories they cover.

- Modern Storytelling: Learn about the contemporary methods of sharing information and talking about products, where affiliate marketing blurs the lines between earned and paid media.

- Crossovers in Communication: Explore the intersections between digital, social, and communications, and how they support and amplify each other.

- Executive Thought Leadership: The importance of storytelling, influencers, and activations in executive thought leadership.

- Personalized PR Strategies: Why taking a stand and personalized pitching resonate more with today's audiences than traditional methods.

Highlights:

- Fast Fashion of Stories: Discussing how stretched newsrooms rely on trending social topics to support their stories.

- Cracking Misconceptions: Jacqueline addresses and debunks some of the common false narratives in the PR industry, emphasizing the need for personalized and audience-focused strategies.

Join us for a deep dive into the power of digital and PR, and discover how to navigate and thrive in this dynamic landscape. Whether you're a PR professional, a digital marketer, or just curious about the intersection of media and technology, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss.

Tune in and let's start this season with some fun!

When we think of crisis communications, we often envision the worst-case scenarios portrayed on the internet and in our news cycles. However, crises don't solely occur on digital platforms. While digital media can exacerbate them, the concept of crisis is rooted in a more scientific framework that determines what constitutes a crisis and how it can be resolved by the company or individual at its center.

In today's episode, we delve into the intricate nature of crisis communications in our digitally savvy and interconnected world with professional crisis readiness expert and leader, Melissa Agnes. Globally recognized as an expert thought leader and visionary in crisis management, Melissa Agnes has collaborated with major players including NATO, The Pentagon, ministries of foreign affairs and defense, financial firms, technology companies, healthcare organizations, cities and municipalities, law enforcement agencies, aviation organizations, and many other industries. In 2020, Melissa founded the Crisis Ready Institute, offering training and certification programs to professionals to better protect people, brands, the environment, and the economy during times of crisis, while also encouraging organizations and leaders to invest in effective crisis readiness.

Melissa is the author of Crisis Ready: Building an Invincible Brand in an Uncertain World, a book that is taught in dozens of universities worldwide, including Harvard University. It is also ranked among the leading crisis management books of all time by Book Authority and was named one of the top 10 business books of 2018 by Forbes.

To connect with Melissa, click here.

For more information on the Crisis Ready Institute, click here and here. 

To connect with Hillary, click here. 

Read more about Digital HQ here.

For more episodes, go to SOCIALCOMPLEXPOD.COM

Produced by You Lucky Dog Productions.